Unifying the Artful and the Useful

Sue Firpo has a Bachelors of Architecture from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. After years of working in architecture firms in California and London, Sue relocated to Portland, Oregon to gain experience working hands on in the construction trades. Five years of trades experience included carpentry, cabinetry, traditional timber framing, furniture and glass work.

After returning to office life, Sue established SL Firpo Design/Craft in 2000. The practice specializes in the design of residential and small commercial buildings and combines an extensive knowledge of construction techniques with thoughtful, artful design.

Sue is a member of the Northwest EcoBuilding Guild and the Cascadia Region Green Building Council. Sue is also a graduate of the intensive Sustainable Homes Professional certification program through Earth Advantage.

Mission Statement
Good design has the ability to improve people’s lives. And good design involves the thoughtfulness and patience to evaluate a project and its environment in balance with the needs and budget of the client.

SL Firpo Design/Craft advocates environmentally responsible building practices and the use of sustainable materials. Energy efficient design strategies are integral to every project. For example, with careful planning and proper site orientation, virtually any type of architecture can integrate passive solar design.

Every project, large or small, benefits from identifying “best practices” to minimize energy consumption and material waste. We work to expand our experience and knowledge of sustainable practices through on going education and through the research of new (and old) technologies. Knowledge is constantly enriched by collaborations with our peers, consultants and mentors.

Creativity and problem solving are essential to carry a project from conception to fruition. Valuable experience as “owner/builder/developer” has allowed SL Firpo Design/Craft a perspective from multiple sides of the table. We bring the sensitivity and sensibility to hold the big picture through the course of the project, ensuring that the overall design remains intact and in synchronicity with the needs and budget of the client.