Site selection, conversion of warehouse to K-8 school & preschool - Portland OR

"I am pleased to give a high recommendation for the outstanding architectural services of Laurie Simpson. Trillium Charter School engaged MOSI Architecture to help with an extensive commercial renovation of our new school building. We worked with Laurie Simpson on this project of gutting an existing office and warehouse space and turning it into a school with space for 400 students and a pre-school. Our needs were extensive, our budget frugal and our time frame next to nothing.

Laurie was adept from the beginning at listening to our needs and “teasing” out the best solution to seemingly insurmountable problems.  Her attention to detail in both the visioning, planning and implementation stages was impressive. Especially appreciated was her skill and knowledge surrounding the complex commercial building codes especially as it pertains to highly regulated spaces such as schools. I can honestly say that we could not have navigated the complex city building code system without her patient, yet persistent advocacy.

Her ideas for space planning were innovative and with a goal toward saving money and time – all critical to our particular project. It was also a pleasure to work with an architect both knowledgeable and committed to implementing green building practices, and Trillium incorporated as many of these ideas as possible in our first and second phase of construction.

Another area that was critical for the smooth completion of our project, and any project, was the skillful interaction between architect and contractor. Careful watch over the building phase is necessary for keeping the original vision intact and Laurie proved her weight in gold for her impressive handling of this aspect.

Always communicative, professional and willing to “dig in her heels” to advocate for her clients, I would not hesitate to recommend her services. We would hire her again in an instance and in fact truly think of her and her team as “our architects”.  Nothing I can say can adequately thank you for all you have done for Trillium. It has been my very good fortune and sincere pleasure to work with you!”

Arrianne Newton - Founder and Board Member, Trillium Charter School

MOSI