Schemata Workshop

The practice takes its name from the plural of "schema" or framework. For the firm, a well-conceived schema is a strong underlying idea that can withstand the real-world constraints of scope, schedule and budget. Early effort is invested in developing this clear concept so that design, documentation and construction administration can proceed in a linear, streamlined way.

Founded in 2004 by principals Grace Kim and Mike Mariano, Schemata Workshop builds on their prior experience with architecture firms in Chicago and Seattle. The studio culture emphasizes mentorship, transparent collaboration and shared passion for architecture and community-building.

Practice focus

• Architecture and urban design services
• Community-oriented and public-interest projects
• New construction and renovation projects
• Emphasis on livable, resilient communities
• Work with public housing authorities, nonprofit affordable housing developers and social service providers
• Experience with cohousing and other forms of community-based housing

Values and commitments

• Empowering people and communities through design
• Advocating for clients' visions
• Acting as agile and responsive partners
• Fostering leadership within the practice, the profession and local communities
• Recognizing and honoring the unceded lands of the Duwamish people and supporting the Duwamish Tribe

The office is located in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, one block east of Cal Anderson Park, between East Olive Street and East Howell Street.

Contact details

• Phone: 206-285-1589
• General email: info@schemataworkshop.com

Staying connected

• Visitors can use the contact information above to inquire about potential projects, collaborations or general questions.
• The firm also offers a newsletter sign-up via its website for updates and news.

Lists NoMa, Capitol Hill, Homestead, Chicago Lawn, Anderson, Union, Golden, and Kirkland as a location. Names Washington and United States as a service area. Areas beyond these are not published.

• 2025 – Emerging Professional Friendly Firm Certificate (AIA Washington Council), recognizing initiatives that support the advancement and growth of emerging professionals.
• 2023 – Construction Excellence, Highway/Transportation ($5M–$15M) for the Union Street Bridge project.
• 2022 – Vision 2050 Awards, "On the Ground" category for the Station House project with Sound Transit and Community Roots Housing.
• 2021 – AIA Seattle Young Architect Award for Margaret Knight (staff member 2015–2022).
• 2020 – PCBC Golden Nugget Merit Award, Best Affordable Housing Community – under 30 du/acre for Sunset Court.
• 2020 – PCBC Golden Nugget Merit Award, Best Affordable Housing Community – 60 du/acre or more for Station House.
• 2020 – AIA Seattle Young Architect Award for Sarah Haase (staff member 2016–2022).
• 2019 – Jennie Sue Brown Award for Geoff Anderson (AIA Washington Council's highest honor).
• 2019 – SDCI People's Choice Award, Urban Design Excellence Finalist (Mid-rise Category) for The Parsonage.
• 2019 – Kaiser Permanente Design Excellence Award, best Renovation / Rebrand over $10 million, for Kaiser Permanente Washington Rebrand (with NBBJ).
• 2018 – Historic Seattle "Neighborhood Investment" Preservation Award for The Parsonage.
• 2017 – AIA Seattle Young Architect Award for Marijana Cvenček (staff member 2017–2019).
• 2016 – King County Executive's Small Business Awards, Small Minority Owned Business of the Year (winner among four finalists).
• 2015 – New Modular Multifamily Design Award (Manufactured Housing Institute) for Kirkland Avenue Modular.
• 2015 – AIA Seattle Homes of Distinction for MCM Lakehouse.
• 2011 – King County Executive's Small Business Awards, Workforce Development Small Business of the Year (finalist).
• 2010 – NAHB and AARP Livable Communities Award for Daybreak Cohousing Community.
• 2009 – Mayor's Small Business Award (one of 10 recipients).
• 2008 – Lifecycle Building Challenge, Professional Unbuilt Category for "The Workshop".
• 2008 – AIA Young Architect Award for Principal Grace Kim.
• 2004 – Emerging Young Professional Award for Principal Grace Kim (for mentorship work).

These awards illustrate Schemata Workshop's long-term commitment to design excellence, community-focused projects, and professional leadership.

How to express interest

Prospective applicants are invited to contact the firm by email:

• Careers contact email: info@schemataworkshop.com

Candidates can use this address to introduce themselves, share qualifications and inquire about potential opportunities.

Employment practices

Schemata Workshop states that, consistent with city, state and federal laws, it is an equal employment opportunity employer. The firm does not discriminate based on:

• Race, color, religion or creed
• Sex, sexual orientation or gender expression/identity
• National origin or ancestry
• Age or disability
• Marital status or veteran status
• Political ideology

The policy also applies to the characteristics of an employee's or applicant's relatives, friends or associates.

Women and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals are highly encouraged to apply.

The firm supports various organizations through its practice, volunteer efforts and financial contributions.

Organizations supported

Schemata Workshop notes its support for the following organizations (among others):

• American Institute of Architectural Students UW (AIAS)
• The Cohousing Association of America
• Community Roots Housing
• Homestead Community Land Trust
• Housing Washington
• Housing Development Consortium
• Mercy Housing Northwest
• National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)
• National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS)
• Open Doors for Multicultural Families
• Pacific Science Center
• Rainier Valley Food Bank
• Real Rent Duwamish
• Seattle Architecture Foundation (SAF)
• Urban League

This list reflects Schemata Workshop's ongoing engagement with housing, social equity, education, and community-serving organizations.

Ask anyway — the agent will say plainly that it is not published rather than guess.