We Plan, Design,
and Advocate for
Community-Centered Environments

Environmental Works Community Design Center is a non-profit, community-based architectural firm providing professional architectural and planning services to non-profit organizations and underrepresented communities in the Puget Sound area. Since 1970, Environmental Works has completed over 400 affordable housing projects, creating over 5,100 homes for families and individuals.

Guided by the belief that good design advances social equity and sustainability, we collaborate with clients and communities to create spaces that reflect local needs, support everyday life, and build stronger neighborhoods together.

See Our Work
EW's headquarters - Historic Firestation 7 in Capitol Hill neighborhood, Seattle
 
 

Affordable Housing • Childcare Centers • Community Centers • Supportive Housing • Adaptive Renovation • Food Banks • Cultural Hubs • Shelters • Group Homes • Senior Housing

 

 
Generations Place Groundbreaking Langley WA  First Affordable new apartments Whidbey Island Community Roots Housing
 

Architecture That Uplifts People and Communities

We work side by side with our partners and the communities they serve to bring new and existing spaces to life. From early feasibility studies and site analysis to architectural design, renovations, and historic preservation, our approach blends technical expertise with care for each place’s character and the people who use it, creating spaces that are functional, sustainable, and welcoming for years to come.

Who We are
 

 

We approach our work with humility, curiosity, and the belief that lasting change happens when everyone has a voice in shaping places they call home.

We design for dignity.

Our design processes and projects honor and uplift human dignity, centering the experiences and voices of those who live, work, and gather in the spaces we create.

We act for equity.

Building equitable, healthy communities requires more than good intentions; it demands advocacy, accountability, and sustained collaboration with those most affected by systemic inequities.

We work in partnership.

Under-resourced communities are equal partners in shaping the design solutions that reflect their identities, priorities, and aspirations.

We balance design and stewardship.

High-quality design considers both human and environmental needs, creating spaces that are functional, beautiful, and resilient for generations to come.

Work With Us
 

OUR MISSION

We plan, design, and advocate for community-centered environments.

OUR VISION

We envision an equitable future that integrates the built and natural environments to support healthy, connected, and joyful communities