SHW was founded in 2009 by Hugh Schaeffer and Sarah Hatfield in Seattle, WA. Following careers at other local firms, we set out on our own to define our aesthetic and response to the urban environment. Since our inception, we have completed over a thousand residential units and numerous commercial and hospitality projects. In 2021 SHW opened an office in Los Angeles further expanding our reach. SHW is licensed in the states of Washington, California, Oregon, Idaho & Alaska.

The majority of our work is urban infill, reflecting our commitment to the urban environment as a sustainable place to live and work.  Our fundamental tenants of inclusive design, urbanism and adaptability are visible in our completed projects.

Our reach is extensive and diverse, but we are not generalists. We take on projects we believe in and know we can execute. We value long-term clients and relationships – clients that believe in us, trust us, and acknowledge our results. We know it takes a team effort to make a successful project. We view our clients, consultants, and contractors as members of our team. By working together, we consistently bring our shared vision from concept into reality.