Kristine Merkel

Architect

“I approach design problems and projects as architectural parables in my own narrative. When I practice architecture and design, I take a stance on interaction — between materials, people, nature, and ideas — as a means to create the most compelling stories and settings.”

Kristine is passionate about designing spaces and things to be experienced, to provide physical feedback to individuals and to create meaning within and without at the same time. She approaches design problems and projects as architectural parables and believes that to practice architecture, and design, in general, is to take a stance on interaction—between materials, people, nature, and ideas. Her aim is to make informed claims about those interactions through storytelling, problem-solving, and experiential design to build awareness and create balance.

Kristine contributes in all architectural project aspects and phases including interior design and public outreach and has experience in urban and graphic design as well as flagship retail design. She regularly volunteers in the community and is currently a mentor with the ACE Mentorship program for high school students in the Portland Metro area.

Selected Projects