Business Details
41 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design Services in Oregon
BBT Architects is a collective of individuals dedicated to creating thoughtful, healthy buildings through active listening, collaboration, and implementation. Our approach centers on fostering community relationships while delivering innovative architectural solutions. With deep roots in Bend, Oregon, we extend our expertise beyond local boundaries to serve diverse regions. Our design philosophy prioritizes openness, natural light, and functional spaces that inspire curiosity and engagement. We specialize in educational facilities, having designed over 75 schools across 25 districts, with a focus on evolving educational needs. Sustainability remains core to our practice as signatories of the AIA 2030 Commitment, striving for zero-emission building portfolios.Our 40+ year legacy demonstrates consistent delivery of quality work through trust-based client relationships. We cultivate curiosity-driven environments where collaboration flourishes between our team, clients, and communities. Our values of responsibility, courage, and curiosity guide every project from concept to completion. Through initiatives like our annual $2,500 design scholarship, we invest in future industry leaders while maintaining active community involvement through partnerships and volunteer efforts.
Services
Educational Architecture
Sustainable Design
Community Spaces
Net-Zero Buildings
School Facilities
Design Consultation
Building Renovations
Architectural Planning
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We implement a collaborative design process centered on active listening
- Our 40+ years of experience informs innovative educational facility design
- We maintain AIA 2030 Commitment standards for sustainable architecture
- Our team includes LEED-certified professionals and registered architects
- We prioritize community engagement through local partnerships and scholarships
Associations and certifications
- AIA 2030 Commitment
Services
Educational Architecture
Specializing in K-12 and higher education facilities, we create innovative learning environments that support modern pedagogical approaches. Our designs incorporate natural light, flexible spaces, and technology integration to enhance student engagement. With experience in over 75 educational projects, we understand evolving educational needs and deliver spaces that foster creativity and collaboration.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach prioritizes environmental responsibility throughout the building lifecycle. As AIA 2030 Commitment signatories, we implement energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and passive design strategies. We help clients achieve LEED certification while creating buildings that minimize environmental impact and operating costs through innovative, research-based solutions.
Community Spaces
We design civic and community spaces that strengthen social connections and public engagement. Our process involves extensive stakeholder consultation to create inclusive, accessible environments. From performing arts centers to community centers, our designs balance functionality with aesthetic appeal while respecting local context and cultural significance.
Net-Zero Buildings
Our net-zero design expertise creates buildings that produce as much energy as they consume. We combine advanced building science with renewable energy systems to achieve carbon neutrality. Through rigorous energy modeling and innovative design strategies, we deliver high-performance buildings that meet strict sustainability targets while maintaining occupant comfort and functionality.
Design Consultation
We provide expert guidance throughout the design and construction process, from initial concept development to project completion. Our consultation services include feasibility studies, code compliance reviews, and sustainability assessments. We work closely with clients to align design solutions with budgetary constraints and long-term operational goals while maintaining design integrity.
People
Kourtney Strong
Managing Partner | Architect
Licensed architect with multiple professional certifications, Kourtney leads BBT's design team with expertise in sustainable building practices and educational facility design. She champions collaborative processes that integrate client needs with innovative solutions while mentoring emerging professionals in the field.
Lynn Baker
Senior Interior Designer
NCIDQ-certified interior designer specializing in educational environments, Lynn brings over two decades of experience creating functional, inspiring spaces that support learning. Her work focuses on integrating biophilic design principles and sustainable materials to enhance student well-being and environmental performance in school settings.
Rene Alexander
Senior Partner | Architect
With extensive experience in complex architectural projects, Rene provides strategic leadership in design innovation and technical execution. He maintains active involvement in professional organizations while guiding BBT's commitment to community-focused architecture and sustainable building practices across diverse project types.
Nathan Leigh
Sustainability Lead | Project Architect
LEED-certified architect specializing in high-performance building systems, Nathan directs BBT's sustainability initiatives and net-zero design efforts. He develops innovative energy solutions while ensuring compliance with evolving environmental standards, combining technical expertise with creative problem-solving for complex architectural projects.
Brenda Hakanoglu
Business Director
Overseeing BBT's operational strategy, Brenda ensures efficient project delivery while maintaining the firm's financial health. With deep understanding of architectural practice management, she supports team development and client relations, fostering the collaborative culture that defines BBT's approach to design.
Questions
What architectural services does BBT Architects specialize in?
We specialize in educational facilities, sustainable design, community spaces, and net-zero buildings. Our expertise includes K-12 schools, higher education centers, performing arts venues, and civic buildings with a focus on environmentally responsible design solutions.
How does BBT Architects approach the design process?
Our design process begins with active listening to understand client needs and community context. We foster collaborative relationships through regular stakeholder engagement, integrating sustainability principles and technical expertise to create functional, inspiring spaces that meet project goals.
What sustainability credentials does BBT Architects hold?
We are signatories of the AIA 2030 Commitment, aiming for carbon-neutral building portfolios. Our team includes LEED-certified professionals and sustainability specialists who implement energy-efficient systems, passive design strategies, and eco-friendly materials in every project.
Does BBT Architects work outside Central Oregon?
While based in Bend, Oregon, we work throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Our experience spans projects in multiple states, with a focus on creating regionally appropriate designs that respect local contexts while maintaining our high design standards.
How does BBT Architects support community development?
We actively engage in community initiatives through design scholarships, local partnerships, and volunteer programs. Our firm supports regional non-profits and participates in community-building efforts that align with our values of sustainability and social responsibility.
