OUR COMPANY
ORIGINS
Karl Anderson and John Shirley formed a friendship in architecture school in the 1980’s, and founded the firm in 2004. Motivated by their common work ethic and design aesthetic, they developed a practice that unites their friendship and the work environment. Their camaraderie extends beyond the office to consultants, clients, and the community of their Salem, OR based practice. All Anderson Shirley key design personnel have earned Bachelor’s degrees in Architecture from the University of Oregon, a school that is known for providing an education that is well-balanced in theoretical, historical, and technical training.
FOCUS
With over 60 collective years of experience, the firm’s project scope is broad and varied. The Anderson Shirley team administers the same expertise and attention to detail to all projects, from custom greenhouses to 100,00 sq.ft. office and medical facilities, school improvements to new home design. Acclaim for the firm’s work has been featured in several publications, including Portrait of Portland Magazine and Arts and Crafts Homes and the Revival.
PROCESS
Designs evolve in a variety of styles in collaboration with each client. Molded by the client’s vision, budget, and site opportunities, the design process is as unique to each project as is the project itself. Energy efficiency and environmental stewardship are essential elements of the design process, as is the influence of the built environment on human well-being and potential.
FUTURE
Architects must be leaders to radically change energy use patterns and carbon dioxide production in the building sector. Our philosophy of sustainable design is to focus on time-honored building traditions rather than expensive, complicated technological solutions.Strategies we consistently turn to include orienting buildings to maximize the benefits of sun exposure and natural breezes, designing to maximize daylight within spaces and views, and using materials and details that have minimal environmental impact and require little maintenance.