---
title: "HOLAH Design + Architecture — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/holah-design-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1761837843
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1761837843.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "HOLAH Design + Architecture"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/74a3ff32004917b1_8629-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg
address: "710 NE 21st Ave., Suite 202, Portland, Oregon 97232, United States"
latitude: 45.5287
longitude: -122.6363
phone: "(503) 288-4203"
website: http://www.holahdesign.com
rating: 4.3
review_count: 6
best_of_houzz_awards: 2
followers: 139
last_updated: 2026-08-15
---

# HOLAH Design + Architecture

Original Houzz profile: [HOLAH Design + Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/holah-design-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1761837843)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Portland, OR
- **Serves:** Portland, Gresham, Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Happy Valley, Milwaukie, Lents, Cedar Mill, Gladstone, Damascus, Cedar Hills, Clackamas, Raleigh Hills, Marylhurst, Mill Plain, Vancouver
- **Houzz rating:** 4.3 out of 5 (6 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2016–2018), for Design.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 10,000 Ideabook Saves

We are a full service, husband/wife architecture firm located in Portland, OR

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- New Home Construction
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Kitchen Design
- Sustainable Design
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Floor Plans
- Energy-Efficient Homes
- 3D Rendering
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Bathroom Design
- Space Planning
- Guesthouse Design & Construction
- Pool House Design & Construction
- Basement Remodeling
- Attic Conversion
- Basement Design
- Tiny House Construction
- Deck Design
- Laundry Room Design

### Areas Served

- Portland
- Gresham
- Beaverton
- Lake Oswego
- Happy Valley
- Milwaukie
- Lents
- Cedar Mill
- Gladstone
- Damascus
- Cedar Hills
- Clackamas
- Raleigh Hills
- Marylhurst
- Mill Plain
- Vancouver

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | HOLAH Design + Architecture |
| Address | 710 NE 21st Ave., Suite 202, Portland, Oregon 97232, United States |
| Phone | (503) 288-4203 |
| Website | http://www.holahdesign.com |
| Followers on Houzz | 139 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/holahdesign
- Blog — http://www.holahdesign.com

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [HOLAH Design + Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/holah-design-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1761837843)
- **Website:** http://www.holahdesign.com
- **Phone:** (503) 288-4203

## Credentials

- **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2016–2018), for Design.

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.3 out of 5 — 6 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 50.0
- Value: 50.0

### All 6 reviews

**★★★★★ — Jodi Coleman, Sept. 2022**

> Libby Holah designed for us a beautiful, functional addition that took in to account our style and preferences.  She gave sound advice and feedback. We were impressed by her attention to detail and creativity. We are extremely happy with our new space.

**★★★★★ — andrea p, Aug. 2022**

> Holah helped me reimagine the kitchen and adjoining family and utility rooms, a master bathroom and a patio addition for my 1986 home. They saw possibilities that I never could have imagined and created such lovely spaces with a fresh, clean and modern/transitional feel. The original design were outstanding with only minor tweaks. I worked with this architect/design savvy couple on layout, materials, textiles, colors, etc. Even despite COVID, they helped things go smoothly through the build. LOVE my new home spaces and am so grateful for the amazing work Holah did!

**★★★★★ — Sophia Rosenberg, Aug. 2022**

> We have used HOLAH Design + Architecture for a number of projects: attic renovation (1930's tudor to make it into a primary suite), plans for a 1911 second floor redesign to include an additional bathroom and primary suite, and a backyard studio. Libby and Greg are wonderful partners to work with. They are prompt in their responses and design, and listen to their clients' needs. You truly feel part of the process and trust that they will advocate for you with contractors. They also are able to adapt to different styles of architecture and produce beautiful designs that are in keeping with the style of each home. I'm a real estate agent in OR & CA and am constantly referring clients to them because I believe in their work and in working with them.

**★★★★★ — Justin Manzo, July 2017**

> We just completed a garage conversion to an ADU and modernized garage space in a very old structure, and I partnered with Holah Design & Architecture to oversee the process. First of all, the team at Holah Design was the best part of the whole experience. Libby is a great designer and has a really solid understanding of the city permitting process, including recent updates to the ADU process that were instrumental in getting my project through the permit process. Libby and Greg worked up very comprehensive drawings and worked with me very closely to get the project permitted, which was a multi-month process that overcame many challenges. Throughout everything, Libby was very transparent, and in the end was able to avoid having to pursue multiple exemptions with the city's development office, with significant cost savings as a result. After the permit was approved, Libby worked hand-in-hand with my general contractor and his team, in a very constructive arrangement where Libby would check in as-needed. The terms of the contract were very fair, broken into phases that allowed for multiple ways to bring them into the process (which I strongly encourage others to take full advantage of). Greg is a true, licensed architect, meaning that the drawings didn't need to be farmed out for signatures by other experts, and they could be submitted to the city as-drawn, with the appropriate level of rigor given to the details.
>
> The Holah team was instrumental in getting this project both off the ground and throughout the surprise moments. In particular, when we hit a challenge during demolition, Libby very quickly got additional structural drawings completed using her extended network of specialists, which saved tons of time and prevented us from making bad decisions about the construction plan. The Holah Design detail drawings were very comprehensive, and the contractors had no problem using them to complete the project. They were also very accommodating of my suggestions, and worked my ideas into the overall design in a way that was really stunning.
>
> Once we got to the fit and finish stage, Libby had excellent suggestions about supplier networks, which we took full advantage of. Knowing who to call, right down to specific individuals at the appliance store, was such a huge help and timesaver, and we ended up getting some great deals on those fixtures based on her contractor discounts. We were really pleased with her modern sense of style, and the recommendations she gave about materials and lighting options.
>
> Overall, we could not have completed this project without the Holah team. I consider their work to be the best investment of the whole effort, because when you work with them, you've got great allies in your corner that can help with everything from design and style guidance through technical expertise, and even advocacy with the city to make sure your project gets done on time.

**★ — Sarah Perelstein, May 2017**

> They might have nice designs, but I had a truly strange and devastating experience working with them.  The communication did not work for me at all.  Months passed and hardly anything got done.  We also had asked them to handle a permitting process for us with the City, which they agreed to but clearly had no familiarity with --- we were totally misled by them, and it ended up setting us back many months in our project.  It was unclear if it was just terrible communication, or if they were actually concealing something. A home remodel is already a hugely stressful and expensive process, which is why the team you choose is so important.  Working with Holah ended up adding a ton of stress.  With so many options in Portland, there have got to be better options out there.

**Comment from HOLAH Design + Architecture:**

> In our 15+ years as a firm, we've only regretted a couple of projects/ clients. This is one of them. It’s unfortunate that this project didn't work out however, there are two sides to every story. It is telling that this client has been thru multiple contractors and designers and architects as well as multiple permit and land use submittals. Additionally, this client was gone for months at a time with limited availability for contact. We mutually agreed to terminate the contract because it wasn't an effective nor positive way for us to work. Our work and awards speak for themselves.

**★★★★★ — Don R Titus, Residential Architect LLC, June 2014**

> As a person who appreciates well-designed homes, I can't help but admire my neighbors' home designed by HOLAH.  Every time we go over to say 'hi' or to have dinner, I find something new to appreciate about that house.  It's probably the best in our whole neighborhood!

**Comment from HOLAH Design + Architecture:**

> Thank you so much for the kinds words! We really appreciate it. Thanks again

## Selected projects

- [Lake Oswego Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-oswego-contemporary-pj-vj~6028963)
  - Location: Lake Oswego, OR
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: This is a recently completed contemporary Pacific Northwest-style new house situated on a dense lot with a creek. Utilizing cedar siding on the exterior with natural wood accents throughout the house.
- [Lake Oswego Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-oswego-ranch-pj-vj~5605178)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: A full house renovation. New windows, cedar siding, casework, countertops and more.
- [NE Portland living room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ne-portland-living-room-pj-vj~2834715)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 3
- [NW Portland Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nw-portland-kitchen-pj-vj~2370438)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 3
  - Description: This dated kitchen was fully gutted. New windows and removing upper cabinets embraces the outdoor landscape. The large island, with butcher block countertop, becomes a centerpiece with a large skylight bringing in natural light.
- [Damascus Artist's Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/damascus-artist-s-residence-pj-vj~2353696)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 10
  - Description: A full renovation of a 1970's ranch. We added a new detached artist studio at the rear of the property. A combination of clear finish cedar, stained black cedar and hardi shake were used.
- [Portland Mid-Century Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/portland-mid-century-ranch-pj-vj~1408247)
  - Location: Portland, OR
  - Photos: 10
  - Description: This was a complete overhaul of a mid-century ranch. The unfinished basement was converted to habitable space, allowing for two new bedrooms and a full bathroom, entertainment area and wet bar. The kitchen and main floor bathroom were renovated. We removed the existing wall to the basement and added a more modern stair. The result is a two level modern ranch. Window wells in the basement were used to increased natural light.
- [Portland Craftsman Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/portland-craftsman-kitchen-pj-vj~1408656)
  - Location: Portland, OR
  - Photos: 11
  - Description: This Portland kitchen and mudroom was fully gutted. We removed a cramped butler's pantry and extended the kitchen to gain more prep space. Laundry was added to the mudroom. We used contemporary materials while maintaining a class craftsman look.
- [NE Portland Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ne-portland-kitchen-pj-vj~2353681)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 3
- [Laurelhurst Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/laurelhurst-kitchen-pj-vj~2353673)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: This was a full renovation to an existing kitchen. The owners wanted to maintain the traditional craftsman feel while updating to a more contemporary lifestyle. Soapstone countertops, marmoleum flooring, butcher block island, subway tile with darker grout.
- [Forest Heights Kitchen and Family Room Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/forest-heights-kitchen-and-family-room-renovation-pj-vj~567384)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 10
- [Irvington kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/irvington-kitchen-pj-vj~161312)
  - Location: Portland, OR
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: The original kitchen was a small, dated galley style design. We added a new rear porch from the nook so that the owners would finally have direct access to their backyard. The new keyhole arch is inviting to the nook. All cabinets are custom. Built-in area in the nook is Doug Fir. The new flooring is marmoleum with an inlay strip which helps define the room.
- [Happy Valley](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/happy-valley-pj-vj~374224)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9
- [Portland Garage Conversion](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/portland-garage-conversion-pj-vj~376308)
  - Location: Portland, OR
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: We converted an unused and dilapidated garage in NE Portland into a spa oasis. A saltwater hot tub, wet bar, glass sliding barn doors and skylights were added. Interior is T&G cedar. Our clients can use the space year-round. The only heat source is the hot tub itself.
- [My Houzz: Color and Light in a Midcentury Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/my-houzz-color-and-light-in-a-midcentury-ranch-pj-vj~984402)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 40
  - Description: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/45795909/list/my-houzz-color-and-light-in-a-midcentury-ranch
- [Laurelhurst Vintage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/laurelhurst-vintage-pj-vj~161340)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 6
- [Happy Valley Main Floor Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/happy-valley-main-floor-renovation-pj-vj~567441)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 12
- [Irvington Kitchen \#2](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/irvington-kitchen-2-pj-vj~407703)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 13
- [NW Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nw-hills-pj-vj~1410608)
  - Location: Portland, OR
  - Photos: 3
  - Description: This Portland ranch was renovated to include a new, open floor plan and kitchen. The lower level was finished with a modern stair rail and a new master bathroom. The bathroom includes a custom made Japanese soaking tub.
- [NW Portland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nw-portland-pj-vj~161436)
  - Location: Portland, OR
  - Photos: 11
  - Description: This was a spec kitchen in NW Portland. The owners wanted a more contemporary feel. We unified flooring materials, added new custom casework (including the fireplace surround), and reconfigured the kitchen layout for a more efficient and modern design.
- [Happy Valley Covered Deck Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/happy-valley-covered-deck-addition-pj-vj~567479)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 7

[See all 21 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/holah-design-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1761837843)

## Ideabooks

- [SE Oak](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/168167847/list/se-oak) — 10 ideas
- [Homesteader](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/141672635/list/homesteader) — 62 ideas
- [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/150516340/list/wish-list) — 4 ideas
- [Laurelhurst Dormer](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/141940741/list/laurelhurst-dormer) — 31 ideas
- [Wilshire Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/158289279/list/wilshire-kitchen) — 20 ideas
- [Chown](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/157757428/list/chown) — 6 ideas
- [Miles Ct.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/140896507/list/miles-ct) — 57 ideas
- [Palatine](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/152905702/list/palatine) — 1 idea
- [Roark](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/150358551/list/roark) — 10 ideas
- [Caruthers](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/151206576/list/caruthers) — 3 ideas
- [Heritage](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/140102480/list/heritage) — 32 ideas
- [SE Studio](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/144188357/list/se-studio) — 2 ideas
- [Perry](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/89285992/list/perry) — 25 ideas
- [Halcyon](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/142810497/list/halcyon) — 2 ideas
- [Ferguson Rd.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/130827957/list/ferguson-rd) — 133 ideas
- [Shields](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/140628944/list/shields) — 14 ideas
- [29th Ave.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/93226142/list/29th-ave) — 18 ideas
- [Washougal](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/132343054/list/washougal) — 27 ideas
- [NE Rodney](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/107702886/list/ne-rodney) — 32 ideas
- [NW Crady](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/129127236/list/nw-crady) — 18 ideas

[See all 149 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/holahdesign)

## Community Q&A

**Q: size of the island** *(in Photo Questions)*

What are the dimensions of the island?

A: The island is approx. 20" wide by 50" length. The clearance between countertops and island is 3'

**Q: floor space around the island** *(in Photo Questions)*

Can you tell me how many feet are on either side of the island?

A: Sorry for the delay! 3' clearance from island

**Q: What lights are those next to the garage door?** *(in Photo Questions)*

Make & model and where to purchase if possible!

A: Hi there, they are by WAC Lighting. The Tube 5" outdoor LED wall light. They were purchased through YLighting. (https://www.ylighting.com/tube-5-inch-outdoor-led-wall-light-by-wac-lighting-uu504710.html)  Hope this helps!

**Q: Width of island** *(in Photo Questions)*

Hi love the island, I also have a narrow kitchen but could fit a small island, what are the dimension of this island.  Thank so much!

A: The island is 1'-6" wide x 4'-3" long. The distance to the sink is 3'-0". It's a very narrow kitchen

**Q: What is the finish on the cabinet hardware?** *(in Photo Questions)*

I love the darker hardware and light fixtures with the rest of this kitchen! Can you tell me where the hardware is from? Is it a polished bronze?

A: It's a copper finish by Rocky Mountain Hardware.

**Q: Island color?** *(in Photo Questions)*

Can you tell me the color of the island base?

A: The island paint color is: Devine Paint in Almond color.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-15.*