Custom Home Architect/Designer

Studio Zerbey is a design‑driven architecture and interiors studio based in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. We specialize in highly crafted, natural modern custom homes and whole‑house remodels throughout the West and Hawaii. Our work is rooted in a thoughtful response to site, climate, client goals, and budget, and is developed through rigorous detailing and deep coordination from concept through construction. Current projects include custom residences on exceptional sites in the Seattle area, Hawaii, and Montana.

We are growing our team and are seeking a Custom Home Architect/Designer to work closely with our two principals across all phases of our projects. This role offers meaningful design responsibility, direct mentorship, and hands‑on involvement from early concept through construction completion.

This position is ideal for an architect or designer in the early‑to‑mid stage of their career who is ready to take increasing ownership of work, deepen technical skills, and grow as part of a collaborative studio.

About the Role

Studio Zerbey is a full‑service architecture and interior design firm. We are involved in projects from pre‑design through construction administration and client move‑in. Our process emphasizes careful design development, highly coordinated construction documents, and continued advocacy for our clients throughout construction.

You will participate in:

• Pre-Design site research principal led schematic design
• Design development and production of permit and construction drawings with coordination with surveyors, arborists, geotechs, structural, civil, landscape architects and other consultants.
• Interior design, materials and finish selection
• Lighting and electrical design
• Construction administration, including site visits, submittal and shop drawing review, and contractor coordination

This role offers the opportunity to see projects through from the first sketches to completed home, and to develop a well‑rounded understanding of higher end residential architectural practice.

What We’re Looking For

Experience & Capabilities:

• Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch)
• Professional experience contributing to custom residential projects
• A strong eye for design, composition, and detailing
• Working knowledge of residential wood‑frame construction methods along with concrete and steel detailing
• Experience producing permit submittals and construction documentation
• Ability to carry design intent through documentation, coordination, and construction
• Clear communication skills, reliability, integrity, and a collaborative mindset
• Comfort working independently while contributing actively to a small team
• A healthy sense of humor and ability to take constructive feedback

Software:

• Working knowledge of Archicad or Revit (Archicad experience preferred)

Nice to Have:

• Archicad
• Lumion or similar rendering software
• Bluebeam
• SketchUp
• Adobe Photoshop and InDesign

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $75,000–$95,000 annually, possibly more commensurate with experience
• Annual performance bonuses
• Medical insurance
• 401(k)
• Five (5) weeks of flexible PTO and holidays
• Top‑tier hardware and software
• A flexible, trust‑based work environment
• Partial remote / hybrid work options may be considered for experienced team members
• A balanced studio culture that values focus, craftsmanship, and life outside of work. You’ll also share the office with Gus, a very friendly golden retriever who will greet you enthusiastically.

Location

Our studio is located in a quiet residential neighborhood in Ballard, with easy parking and a bus stop within three blocks. Check out photos of our office on our website.

How to Apply

Please email a resume and portfolio to:

employment@studiozerbey.com

We appreciate the time it takes to apply thoughtfully and will respond to all candidates who are a good fit. We look forward to meeting architects and designers who are excited to grow with us.