WHY US
We are passionate about designing projects that are at the leading edge of sustainability, energy efficiency, and building science.
We love the challenge of difficult sites, tight budgets, ambitious sustainability goals, and unique programs.
We work diligently to achieve an architecture that is clear, effortless, timeless, and without self-consciousness. We are drawn to simple forms, natural materials, and straightforward details.
We utilize an integrated approach, with an emphasis on innovative and cost effective strategies.
We love to collaborate with other good people.
We have fun doing what we do. We are patient, communicate clearly, and are easy to work with.
We love construction and advancing the way buildings are built.
We want to create buildings with exceptional thermal comfort and superior air-quality while significantly reducing operating costs and reliance on fossil fuels.
We want to help reduce climate change, improve our neighborhoods and cities, and create spaces that inspire.
WHO WE ARE
Based in Portland, Oregon, In Situ Architecture was formed in 2008 by Jeff Stern. Jeff was an early adopter of LEED, Living Building Challenge, and Passive House, and in 2012 became one of the first Certified Passive House Consultants in Portland. In 2013, Jeff completed one of the first certified Passive House projects in Portland and the Northwest, and he continues to push the envelope of sustainability, energy efficiency, and building science.
A licensed architect in Oregon since 1996, Jeff earned his Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon, and a Bachelor of Environmental Design with Honors from the University of Colorado in Boulder. Prior to forming In Situ Architecture, he gained experience working for some of the region’s best architects and has completed an extensive array of projects from small house remodels to large public buildings.
Since 2019, Jeff is a Project Leader and Senior Architect at Lever Architecture in Portland. He has lead numerous projects at various scales including single family residences, multi-family housing, public projects including a performing arts theater and a museum, and creative offices.
In 2023, Jeff became an Energy Trust of Oregon Net Zero Fellow. His research analyzed the relationship and interdependency between Passive House and Mass Timber strategies to create low carbon buildings. His presentation “Seeing the Forest Through the Trees - A Guide to Low Carbon Wood Buildings” can be viewed at energytrust.org.