We aim to create distinctive spaces that have an intuitive flow and are built to last. Warm and refined. Timeless over trendy. We value these qualities—in design, and beyond.

Our practice is small by design. When you engage us, you work directly with architect Michael Howells.

Michael Howells

Architect

Professional Credentials & Affiliations

NCARB certified (licensed architect in the states of Oregon and Wyoming)

American Institute of Architects (AIA) member

US Green Building Council LEED accredited professional (LEED AP)


Practice History

In 2008, I started Howells Architecture + Design in Portland, Oregon, with a desire to make beautiful, livable spaces that express their own time and place, but also benefit from a global sophistication. 

Renovation is my specialty because it’s a personal passion. My love of older houses goes back to a childhood spent moving around the country with a single mom who loved Florida kitsch, collected Fiestaware, and could turn an ordinary house into something special.

After graduate school and an internship at Michael F. Bauer in Santa Fe, I moved to New York City, where I learned the subtleties of residential renovation at AD100 architect Alan Wanzenberg. I continue to draw on that experience here in Portland, a city with a rich stock of vintage homes.

Between New York City and Portland, I spent several years as a Project Architect at Carney Logan Burke in Jackson Hole, Wyoming (now CLB Architects). My experience and strong working relationships established in the valley have allowed me to maintain a satellite practice in Jackson. I continue to work on select residential renovation projects in Teton County and surrounds.


Education

I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of New Mexico in 1989, and a Master of Architecture (with Distinction) from the same in 1999.


Publications

I feel fortunate to have projects published widely, both in the US and abroad. My projects have been featured in Interior Design, Cover, Atomic Ranch, Oregon Home, Portland Monthly, Dwell, and others.

For more, please see Press.

Our Services

We offer an array of design services for homes in Portland, Oregon, with a satellite practice in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. We have extensive experience in residential renovation + interior design.