Business Details
Sustainable Architectural Design Services
Coates Design is a sustainable architecture firm rooted in the belief that thoughtful design elevates communities and enhances quality of life. Founded on Bainbridge Island near Seattle, Washington, we specialize in creating spaces that harmonize with their environment while addressing the unique needs of each client. Our approach integrates sustainability as a foundational principle rather than an add-on, ensuring every projectfrom commercial buildings to residential homesdelivers environmental, economic, and social value. With over two decades of experience, including recognition through awards like the Cradle to Cradle Home Design Competition, we combine technical innovation with a collaborative process that involves clients at every stage.Our team of architects, designers, and planners prioritizes transparency, clear communication, and long-term thinking, ensuring projects align with both client goals and broader ecological responsibilities. We measure success by the positive impact our designs have on occupants and the planet, striving to create buildings that not only do no harm but actively contribute to healthier communities and ecosystems.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Sustainability
Programming
Feasibility Studies
Master Planning
Highlights and features
- We integrate sustainability as a core principle in every architectural project.
- Our collaborative process ensures client goals shape every design decision.
- Award-winning expertise in regenerative and environmentally conscious architecture.
- We prioritize transparency in communication and project timelines.
- Experienced team with a proven track record in diverse project types.
Services
Architecture
Our architectural approach merges sustainability with aesthetic innovation, creating spaces that reflect client needs and environmental context. We focus on clean forms, natural daylighting, and materials that minimize ecological impact. Projects span commercial, residential, and civic sectors, emphasizing durability and community benefit.
Interior Design
We craft interiors that balance modern sophistication with organic warmth, tailored to client lifestyles. Services include material selection, spatial layout, and integration with architectural elements. Our designs prioritize functionality, comfort, and sustainability, using locally sourced and eco-friendly materials.
Feasibility Studies
We assess project viability through market demand, financial constraints, and technical challenges. Our studies provide realistic cost estimates and strategic options, guiding clients from concept to execution while ensuring alignment with sustainability goals.
Master Planning
Our master planning integrates land use, community needs, and ecological preservation. Collaborating with planners and landscape architects, we develop long-term strategies for adaptive, resilient environments that support economic and cultural vitality.
Programming
We define project scope through collaborative client workshops, identifying functional and aesthetic requirements. This phase establishes clear guidelines for design, ensuring solutions meet both practical needs and visionary goals.
People
Matthew Coates
President and Principal Architect
Matthew Coates founded Coates Design with a vision for sustainable, client-driven architecture. His award-winning work includes the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art and Harrison Urgent Care Facility. He champions regenerative design and community-focused spaces.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architecture, interior design, feasibility studies, programming, and master planning with a focus on sustainability.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
Sustainability guides every decision, from material selection to energy-efficient systems, ensuring minimal environmental impact without compromising design quality.
Can you work on projects outside the Seattle area?
Yes, we serve clients in Washington, California, Oregon, Idaho, and beyond through virtual collaboration and on-site planning.
What is your design process like?
We begin with client consultations to understand goals, followed by concept development, detailed design, and transparent project management from start to finish.
Do you handle both commercial and residential projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes diverse projects from healthcare facilities to custom homes, all tailored to client needs and site context.
Reviews (5)
Eunhye Song
Dec 27, 2020
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Great design and Great people! They are very welcoming, responsive, and responsible. Love their creative and thoughtful sustainable design and green buildings.
Isabelle Hoonan
Oct 08, 2020
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I can tell whenever I see a Coates design on the island because of its trademark commitment to innovative form and function. The architects seem to be pushing boundaries within the design world while preserving the island's natural resources.
Walras Leon
Sep 12, 2020
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My wife and I hired them to design a tricky renovation of our bungalow in Seattle. We wanted it to be a lot more modern and we got it...we LOVE the design! For some reason the refrigerator didnt fit without some creative engineering in the contractors part but its all good now. We are very happy with Cortes - they took care of everything for us - definitely one of the best Seattle Architects...and we interviewed 6. Talented and responsive team of designers.
Lonnie Hyde
Aug 29, 2020
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A man with a vision, pays extreme attention to detail, environmentally appropriate designs, sculpting the design culture of Bainbridge Island, functional, attractive and honestly rich design quality.
Madelyn Walls
Jul 15, 2020
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The team at Coates Design makes you feel welcome and their designs continue to surprise me and inspire beautiful architecture! They are fun-loving and truly care about the community!
