Jim McGranahan began the firm in 1968. We have inherited and grown a firm founded on deep and respected roots. Jim established the firm based on good relationships and a high level of service. As the leadership has grown and developed over the years, rigorous management and quality design have also become a core part of the firm's reputation.

McGranahan Architects has been part of the northwest’s architectural community since the late 60’s. Although we work on numerous project types in many communities, our focus has been public sector work; serving educational institutions and other civic services. Our founder Jim McGranahan opened the office assisting the American Plywood Association to establish their northwest headquarters. A decade later we participated in the design of the largest free spanning wood dome structure in the world… clearly a northwest timber preference in the early days. Around the same time we were designing two new high schools and beginning what would be an emphasis in the education market to this day. Public institutions, especially educationally oriented ones, are there to serve the community. We believe learning and education is a life - long endeavor and we apply that same philosophy in our own growth personally and professionally. On every project we strive to provide the most positive contribution to the institution, community and environment.  We find our joy in these contributions and the relationships that are developed through the process, as well as our desire to respect and engage in the needs of each client on each project.