Residential Architects
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Based in
Seattle



[01] About
Hey, we’re Handshake: Architects based in Seattle, USA. Our projects range from small side projects, to major industrial buildouts, & everything in-between.
Hey, we’re Handshake: Architects based in Seattle, USA. Our projects range from small side projects, to major industrial buildouts, & everything in-between.
Hey, we’re Handshake: Architects based in Seattle, USA. Our projects range from small side projects, to major industrial buildouts, & everything in-between.
We believe that the spaces humans inhabit provide much deeper value than simply shelter — they’re where we learn, explore, and become. Artistry is often forgotten about in the field of architecture, commonly replaced by domineering function, or cliche stylings. It’s our mission to create places that spark presence: Allowing oneself to simply be, and start to appreciate the moment.
We believe that the spaces humans inhabit provide much deeper value than simply shelter — they’re where we learn, explore, and become. Artistry is often forgotten about in the field of architecture, commonly replaced by domineering function, or cliche stylings. It’s our mission to create places that spark presence: Allowing oneself to simply be, and start to appreciate the moment.

Lyndon House
|
Summer 2019
Lyndon House
|
Summer 2019
Lyndon House
|
Summer 2019
[02] Portfolio
With a decade of work, we’re devoted to helping clients build a more beautiful world.
With a decade of work, we’re devoted to helping clients build a more beautiful world.
With a decade of work, we’re devoted to helping clients build a more beautiful world.

Zellar Residence
2018

Zellar Residence
2018

Zellar Residence
2018

Open Coworking
2020

Open Coworking
2020

Open Coworking
2020

The Meridien
2017

The Meridien
2017

The Meridien
2017

Du Ponte Residence
2014

Du Ponte Residence
2014

Du Ponte Residence
2014

Mercury Interiors
2022

Mercury Interiors
2022

Mercury Interiors
2022

Brady Residence
2018

Brady Residence
2018

Brady Residence
2018
[03] Services
How we can help
We create thoughtful, modern architecture that reflects your values and fits your life—whether you’re building from the ground up or reimagining an existing space.
Think we might be a good fit for your upcoming project? Reach out — we’d love to talk details and see how we can help.
Think we might be a good fit for your upcoming project? Reach out — we’d love to talk details and see how we can help.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Site Research
[01]
Before any design work begins, we assess your property’s potential. That means reviewing zoning, local requirements, and any constraints that might shape the project — helping set clear expectations from the start.
Schematic Design
[02]
We begin with broad ideas: layout, massing, and the feel of the space. These early studies form the foundation of the project, giving shape to priorities and unlocking creative directions.
Design Development
[03]
Once the concept is clear, we move into precise floor plans, elevations, and early materials. Every detail is refined with buildability and clarity in mind — this is where the design truly takes form.
Permitting & Documentation
[04]
We prepare the technical drawings and documents needed for permitting and construction. We also coordinate with consultants to ensure all plans are aligned and ready for review.
Construction Oversight
[05]
During the build, we stay closely involved. From reviewing shop drawings to site visits and clarifying design intent, we make sure the finished product aligns with the original vision.
Interior Detailing
[06]
We offer full interior design services — including built-ins, lighting layouts, and finishes — that carry the architectural ideas through to every surface and touchpoint inside the home.
Post-Occupancy Support
[07]
Once you’ve moved in, we remain available for small updates, clarifications, or seasonal adjustments. Good design continues to evolve with how you live.
Common Questions
Everything we do follows strict process, eliminating the guesswork, and allowing our teams to most effectively craft the designs we’re known for. Projects vary by scope, but we handle things every step of the way.
What’s your typical project timeline?
Every project is different, but most residential designs take 2–4 months to finalize, followed by permitting and construction. We’ll give you a detailed timeline after the initial consultation.
What’s your typical project timeline?
Every project is different, but most residential designs take 2–4 months to finalize, followed by permitting and construction. We’ll give you a detailed timeline after the initial consultation.
What’s your typical project timeline?
Every project is different, but most residential designs take 2–4 months to finalize, followed by permitting and construction. We’ll give you a detailed timeline after the initial consultation.
Do you handle permits and zoning approvals?
Yes — we’re familiar with local zoning codes and building regulations, and we guide the permitting process from start to finish to avoid delays.
Do you handle permits and zoning approvals?
Yes — we’re familiar with local zoning codes and building regulations, and we guide the permitting process from start to finish to avoid delays.
Do you handle permits and zoning approvals?
Yes — we’re familiar with local zoning codes and building regulations, and we guide the permitting process from start to finish to avoid delays.
Can you work with my existing contractor?
Absolutely. We’re happy to collaborate with your chosen contractor and can also recommend builders we trust if you’re still making that decision.
Can you work with my existing contractor?
Absolutely. We’re happy to collaborate with your chosen contractor and can also recommend builders we trust if you’re still making that decision.
Can you work with my existing contractor?
Absolutely. We’re happy to collaborate with your chosen contractor and can also recommend builders we trust if you’re still making that decision.
What’s included in your architectural services?
We provide concept design, floor plans, elevations, & full construction drawings. We also offer 3D renderings and site visits as requested.
What’s included in your architectural services?
We provide concept design, floor plans, elevations, & full construction drawings. We also offer 3D renderings and site visits as requested.
What’s included in your architectural services?
We provide concept design, floor plans, elevations, & full construction drawings. We also offer 3D renderings and site visits as requested.
Do you take on renovations too?
We do both. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or starting from the ground up, we can help shape your space with thoughtful, functional design.
Do you take on renovations too?
We do both. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or starting from the ground up, we can help shape your space with thoughtful, functional design.
Do you take on renovations too?
We do both. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or starting from the ground up, we can help shape your space with thoughtful, functional design.
[04] Team
Who we are
Life-long friends turned business partners. We strive to build lasting monuments, objects, and structures that reflect our clients’ unique perspectives of the world.
Life-long friends turned business partners. We strive to build lasting monuments, objects, and structures that reflect our clients’ unique perspectives of the world.
Life-long friends turned business partners. We strive to build lasting monuments, objects, and structures that reflect our clients’ unique perspectives of the world.


Nathan Romero
Head of Operations


Nathan Romero
Head of Operations


Nathan Romero
Head of Operations


Alexis Osbourne
Architect


Alexis Osbourne
Architect


Alexis Osbourne
Architect


Natalie Kensington
3D Rendering


Natalie Kensington
3D Rendering


Natalie Kensington
3D Rendering


Gerard Stone
Lead Designer


Gerard Stone
Lead Designer


Gerard Stone
Lead Designer


Caitlyn Zeiss
Founder & CEO


Caitlyn Zeiss
Founder & CEO


Caitlyn Zeiss
Founder & CEO


Clark Rosenbeg
Account Manager


Clark Rosenbeg
Account Manager


Clark Rosenbeg
Account Manager

Macbeth Residence
|
Spring 2021
Macbeth Residence
|
Spring 2021
Macbeth Residence
|
Spring 2021
[05] Contact
Start a project



Think we might be a good fit for your upcoming project? Reach out — we’d love to talk details and see how we can help.
Think we might be a good fit for your upcoming project? Reach out—we’d love to talk details and see how we can help.
We have multiple models of engagement: We can work directly with individuals for private residences, partner with builders and contractors on corporate projects, or simply be involved in the planning process. No project is too small, but we generally prefer to work in sprints with a 3-6 month minimum duration. If you have any questions or ideas, we’d be happy to schedule a consultation.