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History and Philosophy

Since our establishment in 1996 Steele Associates Architects has grown and blossomed into a leading Pacific Northwest firm with a deep staff of talented and passionate design professionals. We dedicate our expertise and service to the sustainable enhancement of the region’s livability, economy, and architectural environment.

Steele Associates' enthusiasm for the practice of architecture results in the highest standards of design, service and value for our clients. We simply love what we do, and it shows in the energy and dedication that we pour into our client's projects. The projects we design create value for our clients while also enriching the architectural fabric and economies of the communities that they are a part of.

In terms of sustainable design we walk our talk as demonstrated by our LEED® NC Gold Certified headquarters depicted on this page, and the many awards we have received acknowledging our sustainable design contributions and stewardship. Our mixed-use building was the first to attain Gold level certification in Bend, Oregon.  Not only is our building sustainable but it also helps us to achieve our goal to provide the best possible working environment for our staff.  In addition to our studio’s ample daylight, stunning views and excellent indoor air quality we also provide a large break room, roof terrace and mini locker rooms on the third floor to encourage and support healthy active lifestyles. And if we work or play too hard we can always sneak away to relax in the “SAA massage chair.”

Our dedication to our region is also reflected in our commitment to supporting the great causes and non-profit organizations that serve our area.  We also been blessed with good fortune and we believe in giving back through community service, pro-bono design services and cash contributions.

Steele Associates Architects has earned a reputation as a firm that meets budgets and deadlines while delivering excellent design and service with great enthusiasm and verve. This reputation is demonstrated by our repeat clientele, numerous design and business awards, and a long list of successful public and private projects. We look forward to developing new mutually beneficial relationships and projects with future clients for decades to come.

"Steele Associates Architects exemplify the highest standards in architectural services. . . they provided complete design services for the Deschutes County Expo Center and numerous other projects for Deschutes County under a three year indefinite service engagement. . . the $30 million fairgrounds project, the most complicated project ever undertaken by Deschutes County was successfully completed within budget and on time. From our experience I can assure you that the selection of Steele Associates Architects will result in superior products with few problems in execution."
Rich Isham, Legal Counsel (retired), Deschutes County