
-
Kevin Eckert
Partner + Founder
Kevin is the founder of BUILD llc. Under his leadership the firm has expanded its portfolio to include complex master planning projects, such as Sisters Woodlands in Oregon. Kevin is deeply involved in every aspect of the company, and is skilled at seeing the minute details, balancing the myriad stakeholders and forces at work on every project, and artfully and quickly analyzing, digesting, and crafting a strategy to achieve a desired result. Kevin’s ability to find the sensible pathway through the difficult is remarkable. In his spare time, Kevin enjoys outdoor fitness, coaching soccer, and making memories with his wife, two sons, and two hounds.
Education
Master of Architecture, University of Kansas
Bachelor of Science, Structural Engineering, University of Kansas
-
Andrew van Leeuwen
Partner + Lead Architect
Andrew joined BUILD in 2001; since then he has served as design lead on an array of single-family, multi-family, and commercial projects. In addition to rigor, clarity, and poetics, Andrew’s work is shaped by his calm and focused demeanor, and delivering value-based results. As a senior partner, Andrew deftly moderates internal team and client discussions, which result in a strong sense of shared purpose. He also leads BUILD’s outreach efforts, the BUILD Online Magazine, and the firm’s rigorous documentation program. Andrew is a visiting critic for the University of Washington College of Built Environments, and in his spare time he may be found making photographs, and traveling the world with his family.
Education
Master of Architecture, Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation
Bachelor of Architecture, Washington State University
Bachelor of Science, Architecture, Washington State University
-
Justin Lemma
Partner
Justin is a big-picture thinker whose broad understanding of built and natural environments leads him to success in the schematic and site design phases of his projects. Since joining BUILD in 2019, Justin has been instrumental in creating permit and construction documents for fast-tracked projects in Seattle, Deschutes County, and Sisters Oregon. Justin has carefully integrated his training, design/build savvy, and background in forestry and wildlife biology to shape his passion for creating lasting buildings and landscapes. More, he brings digital agility, rapid drawing production, and an infectious can-do attitude to each project. In his spare time, Justin enjoys tinkering on his historically registered Seattle home with his wife and hounds.
Education
Master of Architecture, University of Washington
Bachelor of Science, Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, University of Vermont
-
Niccoló Piacentini
Partner & Regenerative Design Advocate
Niccoló Piacentini is an architectural and landscape designer at BUILD, with a vision for creating built environments that restore and enhance ecological systems. Originally from Milan, Italy, Nicco moved to the US to expand his studies, gaining expertise in ecology and design. Nicco is passionate about regenerative agriculture and food systems, believing they are fundamental to landscapes that support environmental resilience and community health. Known for his adaptability, wit, and calm presence, Nicco is a committed steward of the environment and an innovative force in regenerative design.
Education
Master of Architecture, University of Washington
Master of Landscape Architecture, University of Washington
Bachelor of Art, Architecture, Minor in Marine Science, University of San Diego

“Through BUILD llc’s understanding of their clients’ ambitions and imperatives, their rigorous process, and their fundamental intelligence, they consistently add value to their clients’ endeavors. Whether doing the ‘most with the least’ for single-family residential clients, or exceeding the metrics of their commercial clients, BUILD consistently demonstrates these enhanced values. However, and significantly, they are excellent communicators and collaborators with terrific senses of humor.”
— Ed Weinstein, Principal, FAIA, Weinstein A+U