Business Details
18 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design Services
At Arris Studio Architects, we are dedicated to helping clients create high-quality, efficient, and thoughtfully designed buildings. Our team-based, collaborative approach ensures projects move smoothly from concept through construction and beyond. Founded in 2008, we have designed and managed diverse projects including historic renovations, affordable and market-rate multi-family communities, branded hospitality, mixed-use urban infill, and commercial developments. We treat each project as a unique challenge, combining technical expertise with creative problem-solving to deliver solutions that meet both functional and aesthetic needs. Our commitment to understanding the big picture allows us to navigate complex design and construction processes while maintaining a focus on client satisfaction.With offices in San Luis Obispo and Portland, we bring localized expertise to every project while adhering to the highest standards of architectural excellence. Our team's extensive experience in various building types positions us to address the specific demands of each project with precision and innovation. We believe architecture should enhance the human experience while respecting environmental and contextual constraints. This philosophy guides our work across all sectors, ensuring our designs stand the test of time. Through transparent communication and technical rigor, we strive to exceed client expectations while maintaining the integrity of our profession.
Services
Historic Renovation
Commercial Development
Hospitality Design
Mixed-Use Projects
Multi-Family Housing
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of experience in architectural design and project management.
- Our team employs a collaborative approach to ensure smooth project execution.
- We specialize in diverse project types including historic renovations and mixed-use developments.
- Our designs prioritize both functionality and aesthetic excellence.
- We maintain technical expertise in building envelope performance and thermal efficiency.
What people say
Exceptional design solutions
Knowledgeable team
Timely project delivery
Collaborative approach
Technical expertise
Services
Historic Renovation
We specialize in preserving architectural heritage while integrating modern functionality. Our team combines technical expertise with historical sensitivity to restore and adapt historic buildings for contemporary use. Through careful material analysis and code compliance strategies, we ensure projects maintain their historical integrity while meeting current performance standards.
Commercial Development
Our commercial development services focus on creating efficient, code-compliant workspaces that enhance productivity. We address zoning requirements, accessibility standards, and sustainability goals while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Our experience spans corporate headquarters, retail spaces, and mixed-use developments that respond to both client needs and urban contexts.
Hospitality Design
We design hospitality spaces that balance guest comfort with operational efficiency. Our approach considers branding requirements, circulation patterns, and service infrastructure while creating memorable guest experiences. From boutique hotels to resort developments, we ensure designs meet industry standards while maintaining unique architectural character.
Mixed-Use Projects
Our mixed-use expertise integrates residential, commercial, and public spaces within single developments. We address complex zoning regulations, vertical circulation challenges, and infrastructure requirements while creating cohesive urban environments. Our solutions prioritize walkability, sustainability, and community engagement in dense urban settings.
Multi-Family Housing
We design multi-family housing that balances density with livability. Our approach addresses affordability requirements, energy efficiency standards, and community needs while maintaining architectural quality. From market-rate apartments to affordable housing developments, we create spaces that enhance residents' quality of life through thoughtful design.
People
Thom Jess
Principal Architect
With over 20 years of architectural experience, Thom Jess leads design teams in creating innovative solutions that balance aesthetics and functionality. His expertise in complex urban projects ensures clients receive technically sound and contextually appropriate designs.
Adriana Cook
Project Manager
Adriana Cook brings 15 years of project management experience to coordinate multidisciplinary teams. Her focus on client communication and technical coordination ensures projects meet quality standards while staying within schedule and budget constraints.
Shawn Ridenhour
Senior Architect
Specializing in historic preservation, Shawn Ridenhour combines traditional building knowledge with modern technology. His technical expertise in building envelope performance helps maintain structural integrity while improving energy efficiency in heritage projects.
Heather Wiebe
Design Architect
Heather Wiebe focuses on creating innovative spatial solutions that respond to environmental contexts. Her design approach integrates sustainability principles with user experience considerations across residential and commercial project types.
Vince Catania
Technical Director
Vince Catania oversees technical documentation and construction administration. With expertise in building systems integration, he ensures designs translate effectively into built environments that meet regulatory requirements and performance standards.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in historic renovations, commercial developments, hospitality design, mixed-use projects, and multi-family housing across California and Oregon.
How do you approach historic preservation projects?
We combine traditional building knowledge with modern technology to maintain historical integrity while improving functionality and energy efficiency in heritage structures.
What areas do you serve?
We operate from offices in San Luis Obispo, CA and Portland, OR, serving projects throughout California's Central Coast and the Pacific Northwest.
How do you handle complex urban developments?
Our team addresses zoning regulations, vertical circulation, and infrastructure needs while creating cohesive urban environments that prioritize walkability and sustainability.
What makes your firm different?
Our collaborative approach combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving, ensuring projects meet both functional requirements and aesthetic goals through transparent communication.
