Business Details
19 Years
experience
Custom Residential Architecture in Portland, ME
Founded in 2007, Winkelman Architecture is a Maine-based firm specializing in custom residential design. Our team of ten professionals combines decades of experience with a collaborative, craft-driven approach to create spaces that harmonize with nature. We prioritize daylight integration, sustainable materials, and renewable energy solutions across projects ranging from modern homes to traditional shingle-style residences. With work spanning Maine, Massachusetts, California, and Canada, we maintain a small-scale practice to ensure personalized service while delivering award-winning designs. Our principals bring over 35 years of combined experience in residential architecture, informed by hands-on building expertise and a deep understanding of ecological contexts.We collaborate closely with clients and craftspeople to craft unique living environments that reflect individual needs and site-specific conditions. Our commitment to detail extends to custom elements like furniture and fixtures, enhancing the character of each project. Recognized with the 2025 AIA Maine Design Award, we continue to push boundaries in sustainable design while maintaining respect for tradition and context. The firm's waterfront office in Portland, Maine, embodies our passion for place-making and creative collaboration.
Services
Residential Design
Sustainable Architecture
Custom Home Building
Project Management
Design Consultation
Site Analysis
Construction Documentation
Interior Architecture
Renovation Services
Energy Efficiency Planning
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of residential architecture experience with AIA-certified professionals
- Our designs integrate renewable energy and sustainable materials as standard practice
- We maintain a 10-person team to ensure personalized client collaboration
- We specialize in challenging remote site developments across diverse climates
- Our principals actively engage in hands-on building and design processes
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
Services
Residential Design
We create custom residential spaces tailored to client needs and environmental contexts. Our approach combines modern innovation with traditional craftsmanship, focusing on natural light integration and sustainable materials. Projects range from new constructions to renovations across diverse geographic locations.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable designs incorporate renewable energy systems, local materials, and passive solar techniques. We prioritize energy efficiency through tight building envelopes and high-performance systems, including net-zero construction capabilities using geothermal and photovoltaic technologies.
Project Management
We provide comprehensive project management from concept to completion. Our team coordinates with builders and tradespeople to ensure design integrity, budget adherence, and quality craftsmanship throughout the construction process for residential developments.
Site Analysis
We evaluate environmental factors including zoning regulations, topography, and ecological impact to create contextually appropriate designs. Our analysis informs building orientation, material selection, and integration with surrounding landscapes for optimal functionality.
Interior Architecture
We design interior spaces that complement architectural exteriors while meeting functional needs. Our approach considers circulation patterns, natural light optimization, and custom millwork solutions to create cohesive living environments that enhance daily experiences.
People
Will Winkelman
Founding Principal
Registered architect with 35+ years experience in residential design. Graduated from University of Houston in 1982. Established Winkelman Architecture in 2007 after two decades at Portland firms. Focuses on collaborative design processes.
Eric Sokol
Principal
Residential design expert with 20+ years experience. Joined Winkelman Architecture at inception. Specializes in client collaboration and project execution across diverse architectural styles. Graduated from University of Michigan.
Joanna Shaw
Principal
Architect with decade of experience in ecologically responsible design. Holds degrees from Cornell and Columbia Universities. Focuses on integrating architecture with environmental contexts while teaching at local institutions.
Alex Lehnen
Principal
10+ year professional with construction trade experience. Graduated from University of Michigan. Combines practical building knowledge with design expertise. Completed self-built home project demonstrating hands-on approach.
Becca White
Project Architect
Licensed architect with biology and studio art background. Graduated from University of Washington. Specializes in natural material integration and collaborative design processes that enhance daily living experiences.
Questions
What types of residential projects do you handle?
We design custom homes, cottages, cabins, renovations, and specialty structures like boathouses across Maine, Massachusetts, California, and Canada.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We use local materials, passive solar strategies, geothermal systems, and photovoltaic panels. Our first net-zero project features high-performance building envelopes and grid-tied energy storage.
Can you work with remote or challenging sites?
Yes, we specialize in remote locations requiring creative solutions. Our experience includes island developments and difficult terrain projects across diverse climates.
How does your design process work?
We start with site analysis, then client programming, followed by iterative design development. We maintain collaboration throughout construction with detailed technical documentation.
Do you handle both design and construction?
We provide full design services and coordinate with builders. Our team offers construction administration to ensure design intent is maintained during building phases.
How are project budgets managed?
We establish clear budget parameters early and maintain transparent communication throughout. Our process includes cost analysis at each design stage to prevent unexpected expenses.
