Our Story
H2D Architecture + Design is a full-service architecture and interior design firm founded in 2006 by Heidi Helgeson. This woman-owned and operated firm’s mission is to work as a team with our clients, listening and developing their objectives and visions into beautifully crafted architectural spaces. Whether our design team is working on a small remodel, new custom home, addition, multi-family dwelling, or a commercial space, the focus is on architectural detail, budget feasibility, and incorporating high-performance sustainable materials and methods.
H2D’s design team enjoys working on a variety of different project types, widely varying project scales, and diverse locations, from challenging sites to unique design requests. Each project that we take on is unique, therefore we strive to tailor our design process to fit the needs of each project to best serve each individual client. H2D uses a variety of methods to design and present the project to the client including: 3-d modeling, hand sketches, renderings, technical plans, color coordination, and material sample layouts.
H2D Architecture + Design is licensed and registered in Washington and Oregon. H2D is also certified by the Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises and the Oregon State Certification Office of Business Inclusion and Diversity as a women-owned and operated Women Business Enterprise (WBE).
Sarah Thompson, Project Architect and Project Manager
Education: State University of New York, College at Oneonta, B.A. in Studio Art with a concentration in Computer Graphics
Registration: State of Washington Architecture License, State of California Architecture License
Background: Sarah’s career has spanned from Southern California up the West Coast to the Pacific Northwest, working for firms specializing in custom single-family residential, multi-family residential, commercial, and healthcare. There is never a design problem that can’t be solved! Sarah loves to pursue art outside the office, including quilting, quilling, and graphic design, and enjoys reading, travel, camping, and hanging out with her family.
Lauren Groth, Interior Designer
Education: Seattle Pacific University, B.A. Interior Design
Background: Lauren began her interior design career working with a modern spec home builder in Seattle, where she specified finishes and materials for townhomes and single-family residences. She later expanded her experience as a freelance designer, collaborating on a wide range of projects and strengthening her ability to work seamlessly with builders, developers, and homeowners alike. Since joining H2D in 2020, Lauren has worked closely with homeowners to thoughtfully guide them through the design process and help bring their dream homes to life. Outside of work, she enjoys making art, mixing craft cocktails, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
Heidi Helgeson, Owner and Principal Architect
Education: Saint Olaf College, B.A. in studio art and Asian studies; University of Washington, Master of Architecture; Passive House Designer Course
Registration: Registered Architect in Washington, Oregon, and California. Passive House Institute Certified Passive House Designer, American Institute of Architects, AIA Seattle, NCARB
Background: After receiving her Master of Architecture degree from the University of Washington, Heidi Helgeson worked at a variety of architecture firms gaining experience on a wide variety of project types and styles from single family and multi-family residences to museums, libraries, and churches. Heidi founded H2D architecture + design in 2006. In addition to working at H2D, Heidi is an artist and athlete – enjoying time spent painting and sketching as well as participating in triathlons and running events.
Professional Affiliations:
Registered Architect in Washington, Oregon and California
Certified Passive House Designer
Healthy Homes Training for Building Professionals
American Institute of Architects
NCARB
Built Green
Pacific Northwest JET Alumni
CORA (Congress of Residential Architects)
Lisa Kramer, Architectural and Interior Design Project Manager
Education: The Pennsylvania State University, Bachelor of Architecture and Minor in Architecture History; The Art Institute of Seattle, Associate of Arts in Interior Design
Background: After completing her education, Lisa Kramer worked as an Interior Designer on a variety of projects including commercial, single-family residences, and multi-family residences. She draws inspiration from bold colors in nature and loves to incorporate them in design. Outside of H2D, Lisa is an adaptive golfer, hiker and dog lover.
Kathryn Benson, Interior Designer
Education: Willamette University, B.A. in Theatre Arts; Bellevue College BAA in Interior Design
Background: While Kathryn’s design career has touched on a variety of projects from boutique hospitality concepts to custom commercial furnishings, her passion has always been designing totally personalized spaces for living. She loves finding unexpected design moments & mixing styles to bring joy & authenticity to daily living. Outside the office, Kathryn enjoys nature, travel, and everything personal development.
Cristy Weller, Architectural Designer and Project Manager
Education: Washington State University, Bachelor of Architecture
Background: Cristy has had the opportunity to work on a variety of single-family homes and remodels, as well as numerous multi-family projects throughout her career. It is the personal nature of custom residential projects that she enjoys the most. In her free time, Cristy loves gardening and spending time with her family.
Sommer Banich, Office Manager
Education: California State University Fullerton, B. A. in English
Background: With a background in operations and business development across various industries, Sommer now brings her creative flair and organizational skills to her role as Office Manager at H2D!
Outside of H2D, Sommer can be found reading, cooking, working on her house, and spending time with her husband and son exploring the PNW.