• “There are two major assets that stand out in our experience working with Westgate Designworks, that in retrospect were very important in our building process. First, I came with ideas of our vision for our home. Aaron gently asked permission to change some of these ideas. What he came back with was brilliant; our ideas, but with a collage of experience, attention to detail, and a complete scope to compliment our vision. Second, the conversations we had were insanely efficient, whether he was trying a new concept with us or listening to our observations. We could see the ideas literally transform through our conversation while he made the changes instantly using his software.”

  • “My wife and I hired Aaron of Westgate Design/Works to design our custom home in Bellingham. We immediately perceived his energy, professionalism and excitement to work with us. That early optimism has blossomed over the year as he listened intently, heard our desires then created a design incorporating modern technology so we could virtually walk through the spaces. Aaron’s keen interest, experience and communication skills made our collaboration seamless. Along with the architectural design he facilitated the complex permitting phase keeping us informed, aware of our responsibilities and confident as the months rolled by. As we near construction our family has only praise and respect for Aaron’s design skills, precision and professionalism.”

  • “Aaron listened to the needs and design intent and came up with an initial design that was fine tuned - there were design elements I didn't notice at first that he made sure were there and they are some of my favorite features of the home. He was able to work with the City of Bellingham for necessary easements to allow access for a garage/shop that wouldn't otherwise have been possible. Beyond first class, will only use his design services for any future projects.”

  • "Aaron is an amazing individual in general, and particularly when it comes to turning my schematic and conceptual designs into concrete form and mass. He has that rare ability to fill in huge design gaps with thoughtful artistry and cohesive rhythm. My design concepts move forward through his hands and computer. He has the sense and skill to recognize my aesthetics and art, and remain true to them, while adding his own flourish and insight."

    - Buzz Ferver

    Founder of Design Ecology, Board Member at Yestermorrow Design/Build School

  • “We worked with Aaron on a complete remodel of a house down to the studs. The house had a "mountain cabin" feel, but we wanted that "lakehouse" feel that was appropriate to the locale with a scenic lake view. Aaron guided us through this process (our first), provided detailed renderings of the house (including a 3D "fly through" which was invaluable for us to see what the end result would look like), and provided crucial insight as to constraints for the space. The kicker: We had to do all of this remotely since we were living internationally while doing the remodel. Aaron not only helped us with the design, but because we were doing this remotely, he also took on the role of project manager, going above and beyond his responsibilities and providing references to contractors and specialists to achieve the (very detailed) vision we had in mind. He made a difficult process much less painful, and we couldn't be happier with the end result. The only problem is that we never want to leave the house! Thank you, Aaron!”

  • “Aaron created a beautiful design for my wife and I. We are beyond happy with the final product. The process was exceptional. Working through the design was a pleasure from concept to permitted drawings. Just plain fun, exciting and rewarding.
    I am also a professional builder. I chose to work with Aaron after seeing his work. We have since completed multiple projects together with very happy clients. I would hire him again personally, I recommend him regularly to my clients and I look forward to our next project together!”

  • "Aaron’s skill and professionalism are rare and impressive. Throughout his several years working with us, first as an Analyst at Rocky Mountain Institute and later as an independent consultant, Aaron demonstrated a consistent commitment to delivering high-quality work requiring imagination, broad knowledge, integrity, and initiative. Faced with demanding projects on tight budgets, such as designing and installing an indoor tropical jungle at 7100' in the Rockies, he has reliably delivered results that have exceeded my high expectations."

    - Amory B. Lovins

    Chairman & Chief Scientist of Rocky Mountain Institute

the client experience

What to expect when working with Westgate Design|Works:

  • To get started, we’ll typically meet at the proposed building site, in order to get to know each other and to get acquainted with the project’s goals and constraints. We’ll review big picture objectives, budget, and project scheduling, and identify other consultants who may need to be involved in the project. As needed, we’ll provide recommendations for surveyors, geotechnical consultants, civil engineers, structural engineer, etc, in order to get started with the right team in place.

  • Once the project has been defined and everyone agrees to move forward, we’ll write up a formal contract for design services.

  • To initiate the design process, we’ll gather as much relevant data about the project as needed. This typically involves completing a site survey that includes topography, boundary lines, utilities, easements, critical areas, etc. For remodel/addition work on existing buildings, we’ll develop a detailed digital model of the As-Built conditions, which will be used to inform all of the proposed modifications. We’ll coordinate with the presiding building jurisdiction in order to understand the requirements for permitting , including critical area conditions, steep slopes, flood risks, watershed and stormwater criteria, fire access and mitigation, etc. Some projects will require a geologist to be involved for soil analysis, slope stability, or other site criteria. We’ll help to put together the right team to ensure a smooth path forward through the design and permitting experience.

  • Once we understand the bounding conditions that we’re working within, we’ll move into schematic design. This is the beginning of the actual design process, where we keep things relatively low-detail in order to hone in on various design concepts to consider. Depending on the nature of the project, we may develop several diverse ideas to review with the client, or we may quickly hone in on one clear solution. This level of design is typically presented as a ‘massing model’, where we are reviewing the big picture of the building’s shape, orientation, rooflines, and approximate floorplans.

  • This is where the feeling of the home really starts to take shape. After a schematic design concept is agreed upon, we’ll begin the process of refining the entire design into a cohesive project. We’ll define windows, doors, cabinetry, built-ins, furniture, etc. This is typically the most fun and creative part of the project, where we’re working collaboratively to make the home feel and look exactly right.

  • After the design concept is well defined, we’ll move into the process of creating construction documents, which include foundation plans, framing plans, and construction detailing. We typically engage with a structural engineer during this phase, where we’ll work together to develop an efficient strategy to ensure that the aesthetic and structural aspects of the home are working together harmoniously. We’ll engage with other specialists and consultants as required, including civil engineers, interior designers, lighting designers, etc.

  • We conduct the majority of the permitting process on most projects, though we’re also happy to engage with external consultants where appropriate. Each building jurisdiction has its own set of unique requirements to comply with, and we’re well versed in the process of navigating these hurdles.

  • Once the building permit has been obtained, construction is ready to begin. We engage with the builders as much as needed or requested throughout the construction process in order to ensure clarity in design interpretation.

  • After months of work and hundreds of decisions, you’re finally ready to move in to your new space. We’ll conduct a photoshoot of the finished home, and raise a glass in celebration with you!