Our Values
At Aforma, our work reflects who we are — not only in the places we build and design, but in how we do it. Our values guide us every day, helping us deliver exceptional architecture, build excellence, and provide transformative client experiences.
1. Great Design is Great for People
We go beyond aesthetics. Every space we create—in Portland or nationwide—aims to enhance wellbeing, flow, and connection. From homes to ADUs, we design with empathy and purpose.
2. Continuous Improvement
We don’t believe in the status quo. We embrace learning, iteration, and advancements—from AI-integrated workflows to Matterport scanning—to continually refine our processes continually.
3. Collaboration
True success comes from partnership. We work humbly alongside builders, architects, engineers, clients, and one another, sharing ownership and delivering as a unified team.
4. Radical Transparency
No surprises. We believe in upfront communication about design, budgets, and schedules. Honesty and clarity shape our trust-based relationships.
5. Intelligence + Intuition
We balance data-driven precision (like BIM and estimating) with creative insight and design intuition. Logic meets feeling—quality meets character.
6. Sustainability & Stewardship
As a Passive House–certified builder, we prioritize the well-being of people, places, and the environment. We prioritize low-toxicity materials, energy efficiency, and lasting value in every project.
7. Purpose Over Process
Tools and procedures serve our goals, not the other way around. We often ask “why,” returning to meaning over mechanical steps.
8. Humanity at the Core
Every project is rooted in story, emotion, and experience. We honor the people behind every design and build by listening deeply, respecting context, and responding with care.
What This Means for You
Homeowners: Expect empathetic, clear, and purpose-built spaces.
Design/Build Partners: Enjoy transparent planning, alignment, and team-first delivery.
Architects, Builders & Developers: Experience high-fidelity design and visualization and expertise that elevate your brand and projects with construction experience that backs up our work.
Interested in learning how our values guide real outcomes? Explore our featured projects—such as the historic Fairmount Loop renovation, the eco-friendly SE Portland ADU, and luxurious condo remodels—where purpose, craft, and collaboration truly shine.
We live by these values every day.
It’s who we are, and why you can trust Aforma to bring clarity, meaning, and excellence to your next design or build.