Business Details
35 Years
experience
Custom Residential & Commercial Architecture in Seattle
Greif Architects | Living Architecture has been dedicated to creating meaningful, client-centered architectural solutions since 1991. Our practice combines over three decades of experience with a philosophy that views architecture as an expressive art form essential to enhancing human experiences and interactions with the built environment. We specialize in residential, commercial, and institutional projects, emphasizing collaboration with skilled contractors, engineers, and artisans to ensure designs that honor both client needs and natural surroundings. Our process prioritizes clear communication, trust, and practical guidance, helping clients navigate the complexities of architectural planning and construction. We integrate interior design with exterior spaces to maintain continuity, while our construction administration services ensure quality execution.Rooted in a family legacy of builders and architects, our team brings deep technical knowledge and creative vision to every project. We believe architecture should nourish lives, avoid design pitfalls, and embrace the potential of every space. Our Seattle-based firm serves clients locally and beyond, offering customized solutions that balance artistic expression with functional requirements. Through 3D modeling and continuous cost analysis, we provide clients with comprehensive visualizations and value engineering throughout the design process. Our commitment to quality extends to educational resources that empower clients to engage effectively in the architectural journey.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Institutional Projects
Interior Design Integration
Construction Administration
3D Modeling Services
Project Planning Consultation
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in client-centered architectural design
- Our team collaborates with top engineers and artisans for superior execution
- We prioritize clear communication through our proprietary project planning guide
- Our designs integrate natural elements to create nourishing living environments
- We provide continuous cost analysis and 3D visualization throughout the process
Services
Residential Architecture
We create custom residential designs that harmonize with natural environments while meeting specific client needs. Our approach emphasizes spatial flow, material selection, and integration with surrounding landscapes. Projects range from single-family homes to multi-unit residential developments.
Commercial Design
Our commercial architecture balances functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating spaces that enhance business operations and customer experiences. We design for diverse sectors including retail, office spaces, and hospitality venues.
Institutional Projects
We specialize in designing educational facilities, religious institutions, and community spaces that serve public needs while maintaining architectural integrity. Our work includes Waldorf schools and church renovations.
Construction Administration
We provide comprehensive construction oversight to ensure design specifications are properly implemented. This includes contractor coordination, budget tracking, and quality control throughout the building process.
3D Modeling Services
Our 3D modeling capabilities allow clients to visualize projects in full spatial context before construction begins. This technology facilitates design reviews, cost estimations, and early identification of potential issues.
People
Joseph Greif
Principal
Third-generation architect with family roots in building and design. Combines technical expertise with artistic vision, drawing from decades of experience in Pacific Northwest architecture.
Cynthia Nolting-Greif
Principal
Trained architect with 15 years working under Northwest Master Ralph Anderson. Specializes in translating client visions into functional designs while maintaining aesthetic integrity.
Questions
What types of architectural projects do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential, commercial, and institutional projects with a focus on custom designs that integrate natural elements.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We use a proprietary planning guide and 3D modeling to ensure client input at every stage, from concept to construction.
What makes your firm different from other architects?
Our approach combines family-building legacy, continuous cost analysis, and emphasis on creating nourishing spaces rather than generic structures.
Do you work outside the Seattle area?
While based in Seattle, we've completed projects in Washington, Idaho, Minnesota, Alaska, Hawaii, and Austria.
How do you ensure project quality during construction?
We provide construction administration services, working with trusted local builders to maintain design integrity and quality standards.
Can you help with interior design coordination?
Yes, we integrate interior design with exterior architecture and collaborate with preferred designers to maintain design continuity.
Reviews (1)
Gay G.
Aug 20, 2021
Report
Joseph Greif is a lovely human being and a wonderful architect. He took over my major remodel from an architect who cared only about squeezing the most money out of the project and asserting total control. Her ultramodern design sensibility was too cold and angular for the house; being uninspired by the project, she delivered plans that were boring and unimaginative. Joseph changed all that. I wanted the house to have curves and elements borrowed from the Art Deco movement. He delivered all that and more. His design for the front room in the second story addition includes a custom curved window
