Maren is a licensed architect particularly interested in high performance architecture and building science.  She uses detailed site analysis along with three dimensional thermal and spatial modeling to design beautiful, efficient buildings that perform reliably, elegantly, and simply. She holds a Masters in Architecture from Academy of Art University in San Francisco, and is a Certified Passive House Consultant, certified LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environment) professional, and a WELL Accredited Professional (a credential that signifies knowledge in health and wellness in the built environment and specialization in the WELL Building Standard). Maren is also the Northwest U.S. adviser to the Passive House Alliance board of directors.

Nate is a licensed architect with a Master of Architecture degree from Washington State University. His history with our studio dates back to when Sam first knew him as an exceptionally dedicated and talented student.    Nate's interest in design as a means to enrich our built environment whilst designing projects woven to their natural and cultural context aligns perfectly with our values. Nate is both steadily responsible and artistically creative.  "I am excited to be learning and growing as part of a team actively working to improve how we understand architecture and our clients."

Rebecca's core role in our practice is to independently document and certify that completed projects pass forensic testing to assure full compliance with our design specifications and intent.  The certification process combines extensive design review with a rigorous on-site quality assurance program established by the Passive House Institute U.S. (PHIUS) which aligns with the protocols of the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET,) Energy Star 3.0 and DOE Challenge, while including additional tests and protocols specific to the passive building certification program.
Rebecca holds a degree in applied linguistics from California State University and is active as a licensed real estate professional with Lakeshore Realty in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

We cannot think of finishes, furnishings, and fixtures as an afterthought, and  don't isolate interior and architectural design... for us, this is one holistic approach.   Wendy is a NCIDQ certified Interior Designer who returned to Sam Rodell Architects after 16 years of travelling the world as a military spouse - enjoying different locations as well as the varied clientele each new city brought. She holds a degree in Fine Art from Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah, and all those years of professional experience across the globe. She is has rejoined our team with a wealth of experience.

Roger is all business. An integral and invaluable part of our team for over twenty years, Roger joined the firm with a high level of experience in construction accounting and management. He works mostly behind the scenes to maintain rigorous tracking and management of studio operations and construction pay requests as well as wholesale purchasing for clients.  

There are no greys in Roger's world - it's all black and white.  Got a bill to submit without proper documentation?  Don't even bother.  (We know he's not perfect... but to date, we have nothing to document that.)

With decades of experience in civil engineering and consulting, Chad excels at sensitive site development, sustainable design, and excellent collaboration and communication skills. He has worked in a wide range of environments in various markets throughout the United States; each project presents unique challenges which inspire him to approach every project with a fresh viewpoint and enthusiasm for understanding the nuances of the project at hand. Chad is a principal with Coffman Engineers, a regional multi-disciplinary engineering firm.

Adam's work as a prominent architect and innovative builder of 'market rate' commercial high performance building has made him a recognized national leader in the Passivhaus movement. His successes in commercial Passivhaus design have made him a sought after speaker, consultant and teacher of ultra-low energy design. His experience includes the first Passivhaus certified public school, university student center, dental clinic, and religious assembly buildings on our continent.  (Full bio here)

Mechanical systems are an integral part of passive building design, and Mark enjoys the challenge of balancing comfort with energy savings. As principal engineer of Kartchner Engineering Mark has had a broad range of experience with many types of projects around the country, and has found great satisfaction in saving energy through unique and standard mechanical systems. It takes a team to make a great building, and passive building brings everyone together to create the best.

Electrical systems are an important aspect of well designed, high performance architecture, and we take a particular interest in being certain we are integrating current and emerging technologies at their highest potential. With over 40 years of experience and a strong interest in the work we are doing, Jim adds both the technical depth and creative energy required to assure our clients optimal outcomes rather than just another project 'wired to code' however it may fall together on the construction site.

Gary has been intimately involved in energy efficiency and renewable energy since 1974, and is a nationally recognized leader in plumbing technologies. Hot water systems include the heaters, distribution piping, plumbing fixtures and appliances, and waste heat that runs down the drain. Gary focuses on practical measures proven and provide high performance hot water systems.

With 30 years of experience, Albert has a wide range of experience in the USA, Canada, and Asia. He brings deep technical expertise paired with passion for the importance of business and value analysis in design.  His belief in the value of more robust design concepts is at the heart of this quote:  "Consider this….Creativity, necessity, and resourcefulness designed and built the Ark.  Advanced engineering and state of the art technology designed and built the Titanic."

Kendra manages the marketing and communications aspects of our interior design division.  She specializes in press relations and social media while simultaneously coordinating the administrative end of design.Kendra's background is in non-profit communications, and enjoys every opportunity to network within the Spokane and Coeur d'Alene community.