• 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

  • Carey Moran

    Partner

    Carey is a multi-talented designer who thrives on contemplating and solving complex problems simultaneously. Her ability to look several steps ahead, to efficiently thread the needle in every project, and find solutions to complicated code issues is notable. Carey’s project leadership fuses savvy design sensibilities and technical knowledge with a deep understanding of the entitlement process, which results in the effective development, management, and realization of her projects. In spring 2022, Carey will be co-instructing a graduate thesis research studio at the College of Built Environments at the University of Washington, which will focus on envisioning futures in a post-anthropocentric world. In her spare time, Carey enjoys spending time in the mountains and the water with friends and family.

    Education

    Master of Architecture, University of Washington

    Bachelor of Art & Science, Architecture, Lehigh University

  • Kelly Rodriguez

    Partner

    Kelly is the manager of operations at BUILD; she’s responsible for keeping track of the firm’s bottom line and an eye on the big picture. Kelly engages in future planning efforts that work to further BUILD’s goals, manages all financials, supports HR, and assists with marketing, proposal finessing, strategic client engagement, and social media efforts. Kelly brings strong interpersonal skills and professional judgment to the team, and is infinitely flexible and organized. In her spare time, Kelly works on a variety of creative writing projects, enjoys all manner of fitness, including her lifelong passion for ballet, and spending time with loved ones.

    Education

    Master of Architecture, University of Washington

    Bachelor of Architecture with Distinction, California College of Arts

  • 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

    Designer & 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

  • Ciera Gordon

    Architect

    Ciera Gordon is an architect at BUILD, and holds a background in mechanical engineering and energy studies in addition to architecture. An inherent problem solver and environmental steward, Ciera focuses on the social and environmental impacts of her projects, and their interdisciplinary challenges and opportunities. She is passionate about integrating the needs of people and the natural surroundings to bring value to projects through the efficient use of resources. Ciera grew up along the water in La Conner, Washington, and feels fortunate to be able to practice architecture in the unique environment of the Pacific Northwest. Ciera enjoys running, hiking and kayaking.

    Education

    Master of Architecture, University of California, Berkeley

    Bachelor of Science, Architecture, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

“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

Let’s build something together