About Us

Studio TJP delivers insightful, meticulous residential and commercial architectural designs that are ecologically, socially, and fiscally responsible across a wide range of project types, sizes and budgets. We develop beautiful details and fluidly adapt to our client’s evolving needs and desires, designing structures that gracefully endure.

A deep-seated knowledge of architectural history informs our use of modern, innovative architectural design, building processes, and materials. Taking the long view, we consider how resources will be used over time to enable built environments that last, adapt, and meet principles of universal design and accessibility. Throughout the design and building process, from inception to project completion, we provide guidance. Crafted to be thoughtful and eco- friendly, our designs bring grace and enjoyment into every space.

Founded in 1979 by Larry and Lani Johnson, the practice was previously known as The Johnson Partnership. In 2018, the Johnsons transitioned ownership to their talented and well-established architectural leadership team — Howard Miller, Steve Campbell, and Ellen Mirro. In 2020, The Johnson Partnership became Studio TJP.

Studio TJP is licensed to practice architecture in Washington, Oregon, and Maryland.

 

Our Team

Curious, industrious, meticulous, and inventive, we are a team of makers. Our process and approach values inquiry, craft and partnership. We relish the possibilities each project brings and encourage the cross-pollination between collaborators—partners, artisans and contractors as a source of fresh and project-specific ideas.

Howard Miller, Principal

AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

Howard’s passion for form and function and a sophisticated sense of color combines to form a vision, producing uniquely memorable creations. A furniture designer, woodworker, painter, and ceramicist, Howard has extensive experience in creating exquisite, efficient, client-specific designs and custom furniture. Leveraging his maritime experience, Howard contributed to a six-year restoration of Pirate, the best existing R-class sloop in the Pacific Northwest. Relaxing in his Bonsai garden, sailing the Sound, and skiing helps Howard connect with nature in and around Seattle. He and his wife also enjoy helping the Seattle area’s underserved communities through their church.

Read More

Education, Licenses & Certifications

Cornell University, School of Architecture, Art, & Planning – BA, 1988

Licensed in Washington, Oregon and Maryland

National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Certified

An Architectural Historian and Historic Architect, meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards in Historic Architecture

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited

American Institute of Architects, Seattle Chapter – Member, 2000 to present

Puget Sound Bonsai Association – Board member, 2009 – 2017

Full Resume

Steve Campbell, Principal

AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Steve applies the rigor and discipline that first sparked his interest in architecture, whether he’s managing the design and construction of new buildings or overseeing business planning and accounting. Focused on refined detailing, building technologies, and multi-disciplinary collaboration, Steve’s interest in materials and construction is always evolving. Steve’s passion for sustainable design and architecture is evident, from schematic design through construction. Riding his bike to work rain or shine, Steve does his part to reduce urban congestion. Steve and his wife have cycled through the Netherlands and other idyllic places.

Read More

Education, Licenses & Certifications

University of Cincinnati, College of Design, Architecture, Art & Planning – Bachelor of Architecture, 1990

University of Charleston, College of Arts & Sciences – 1982 – 83

Licensed in Washington (No. 9272)

Architectural Historian, meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards in Historic Architecture

American Institute of Architects, Seattle Chapter – Member, 2007 to present

United States Green Building Council, LEED AP BD+C – Member, 2008 to present

Full Resume

Ellen F. C. Mirro, Principal

AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

Ellen’s work spans custom residential, adaptive re-use, and large-scale institutional buildings, originating from her passion for solving complex design problems. An Historic Architect and Architectural Historian, Ellen has successfully obtained Certificates of Approval from the Seattle Landmarks Board for projects in Historic Districts and individually landmarked buildings. Whether clients need historic resource services, such as a SEPA Appendix A report, Landmark Nomination reports for the City of Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board, or architectural design services for stewarding old buildings, Ellen gracefully connects with colleagues, community, and individuals to accomplish goals while honoring the environment. Ellen also runs a working farm with her husband.

Read More

Education, Licenses & Certifications

University of Washington, Master of Architecture – MA, 2002 Participated in study abroad programs in Rome, Cuba, and Mexico

Washington State University, Architecture Program – 1998

University of California at Santa Cruz, Art History – BA, 1996

Licensed in Washington (No. 11430)

National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Certified

An Architectural Historian and Historic Architect, meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards in Historic Architecture

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited

American Institute of Architects, Seattle Chapter – Member, 2012 to present

Society of Architectural Historians, Marion Dean Ross Chapter

Historic Seattle

Full Resume

Larry E. Johnson, Principal Emeritus

AIA, LEED AP

Larry created a heritage of excellence during his 40 years of firm leadership with his passion for architectural history and design and diverse background in community and regional planning, residential and commercial architecture, and historic preservation. Seattlite from birth and an expert in Arts & Crafts design, Larry enjoyed working with local craftsmen and artisans to preserve the Pacific Northwest’s cultural heritage. These days Larry can be found somewhere near or on the water–-fishing, boating, or just looking at old wooden boats.

Read More

Education, Licenses & Certifications

University of Washington, Bachelor of Arts in Urban Planning, 1971

University of Washington, Master of Architecture, 1976

Licensed in Washington (No. 3550) and Hawaii (No. 5383)

Active in various national, regional, and local preservation organizations, Larry has served as past Chair for the Seattle Chapter A.I.A. Historic Resources Committee and past Chair of the Ballard Avenue Historic District. Larry has been serving on the Historic Seattle PDA Council.

Full Resume

Katherine V. Jaeger, Senior Writer

Katie partners with the team to develop historical resources reports from the initial proposal stage to delivery. Through archival and internet research, Katie constructs histories of neighborhoods, architects, residents, and social forces that shape our cities. Katie, our resident wordsmith, manages Studio TJP social media channels, produces promotional material, and curates our online project portfolios. Katie loves dogs and books, sews when she can, and is slowly planting a garden.

Read More

Education & License

Zell Postgraduate Fellowship, 2010-2011

University of Michigan, Helen Zell Writers Program – Fiction, Master of Fine Arts 2010

Phi Beta Kappa, 2002

University of Washington, English Literature, Bachelor of Arts, 2002

Full Resume

Audrey N. Reda, Senior Associate & Architectural Historian

Audrey develops 3D computer models of all stages of our projects, from as-found documentation to schematic design, design development, permitting, and construction. She develops permit documents, coordinates the permit process, and provides on-site project management, working on all phases of architectural design. An experienced researcher and writer, she is qualified as an Architectural Historian and conducts archival research, writes historic reports, and assists with Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board presentations. Audrey brings a broad perspective to Studio TJP, having lived in Michigan, Ohio, Florida, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Georgia, and Washington. Fun for Audrey includes building oversized, indestructible furniture, painting, and getting lost in foreign countries.

Read More

Education & License

University of Washington – Master of Architecture, 2017, pursuing architectural licensure. Thesis project: designed a lava-resilient, multi-generational housing community in Pahoas, Hawaii.

Savannah College of Art & Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts, 2014

Flagler College Savannah College of Art & Design – Bachelor of Arts in English, 2006

Full Resume

 

Staff photos by Alexa Janell Photography

Design Process

Throughout the architectural design and construction process, we provide guidance from inception to project completion. Working together with clients, contractors, consultants, craftspeople, artists, and each other, we partner to create memorable homes and commercial buildings.

1

MEET, PROPOSE & AGREE

We meet to discuss project scope, desired timeline, and proposed budget. Once equipped with site details and a site visit, we deliver a written proposal. A letter of agreement is signed once the proposal is accepted.

2

DESIGN CONCEPT

We begin developing your conceptual design by identifying building and program restrictions and meet with you to further develop the designs.

3

PREPARE FOR CONSTRUCTION

We prepare construction drawings that describe your project’s construction as it relates to zoning and building code compliance.

4

REFINE & DRAW

We refine your design and develop detailed drawings that include mechanical systems, materials, finishes, fixtures, and equipment.

5

TIME TO BUILD

We’ll support you as you select a contractor and act as your agent to administer the construction contract. We stay with you until after the final punch-list items have been completed.

 

Awards and Recognition

Awards

Riviera Place Remodel

REX Award, Remodeling excellence, 2006; Master Builders Association (with Marquiss Construction Co.)

Schmitz Park Residence

Seattle Times/AIA Home of the Month for January 1999.

Skagit Valley Timberframe

“Excellent Achievement Award”, Timber Framers Guild National Convention in Virginia, June 1995 “People’s Choice” Award, Timber Framers Guild National Convention in Virginia, June 1995.

Fauntleroy Residence

AIA FutureShack People’s Choice Award, 2010

Books

The Vintage House: A guide to Successful Renovations and Additions

Mark Alan Hewitt & Gordon Bock, W.W. Norton Company Inc., New York, NY, pp. 85-91.

The New Bungalow Kitchen

Peter LaBau, The Taunton Press, Newtown, CT, 2007, pp.6, 23, 28, 53, 68, 72, 88,94,116, 121, 136, 138, 149, 152, 153, 160, 177, 190, 205, 208, 209, 213 & 214.

Bungalow Details: Interior

Jane Powell and Linda Svendson, Gibbs Smith, Publisher, Salt Lake City, UT, 2006, pp.38, 40, 49, 61, 113, 170, 202 & 203.

Bungalow Nation

Diane Maddox and Alexander Vertikoff, Harry N. Abrams, New York, NY, 2003, pp.80 & 96.

Bungalow Bathrooms

Jane Powell and Linda Svendsen, Gibbs Smith, Salt Lake City, UT, 2001, p.108.

Timberframe: The Art and Craft of the Post-and-Beam Home

Todd Benson, Taunton Press, Newtown, CT, 2001, pp.32-37.

Inside the Bungalow: America’s Arts and Crafts Interior

Paul Duchscherer and Douglas Keister, Penguin Studio, New York, NY, 1997, pp.52 & 72.

Outside the Bungalow: America’s Arts and Crafts Garden

Paul Duchscherer and Douglas Keister, Penguin Studio, New York, NY, 1999, pp.75 & 164.

More Small Houses, Fine Homebuilding: Great Houses

Taunton Press, Newtown, CT, 1998, pp.8-13, 140-145.

Periodicals

“Merry magnificence will be on display at the Magnolia Holiday Home Tour”

Seattle Times Pacific Northwest Magazine, November 25, 2016, pp. 16-18.

“A Kitchen Connected”

Fine Homebuilding: Kitchens & Baths, Winter 2016, pp. 38-41.

“Mac’s Shack, a Whimsical Beach Cabin”

Arts & Crafts Homes and the Revival, Spring 2014, pp. 56-57.

“Into the Woods”

Seattle Times Pacific Northwest Magazine, February 10, 2013, pp. 8-11.

“Efficient Makeover”

Old House Interiors, April 2013, pp.21-25.

“Structural Solutions for Small Bump-Outs”

Fine Homebuilding, April/May 2011, p. 42.

“Small Additions Can Make a Big Difference”

Fine Homebuilding Kitchens & Baths, November, 2010, p. 72-73.

“Rescue for a Tudor”

Arts & Crafts Homes and the Revival, November, 2010, p. 38-45.
(Although not credited as the architects in the article, we assisted the owners of the featured historic house with stewardship.)

“The 20th Century Bath”

Old House Journal, November, 2010, p. 38-39.

“Saving Grace”

Seattle Times Pacific Northwest Magazine, October 10, 2010, pp. 30-34.

“New Kitchen, Old Influences”

Seattle Homes & Lifestyles, May, 2010, p. 54.

“Kitchen Confidential”

Old House Journal, March-April 2009, pp. 62-63.

“A Tudor Revival”

Seattle Times Pacific Northwest Magazine, May 18, 2008, pp. 36-42.

“Less Is More: Small Spaces Don’t Keep These Master Baths from Livin’ Large”

Seattle Homes & Lifestyles, September, 2003, pp. 79-80.

“AIA Homes of the Year”

Seattle Times Pacific Magazine, February 27, 2000, pp. 79-80.

“An Island Homestead”

Fine Homebuilding, May, 1998, pp. 110-115.

“1995 Design Awards”

Timber Framing: the Journal of the Timber Framer Guild, September, 1995, p. 7.

“A Revelation in Leschi”

Seattle Times Pacific Magazine, September 21, 2003, pp. 12-14.

“A Respect for Vintage”

Seattle Times Pacific Magazine, June 23, 2002, pp.8-11.

“A Compact Timer-Frame Farmhouse”

Fine Homebuilding, November, 1996, pp. 98-103.

“A Light Retreat”

Seattle Times Pacific Magazine, October 20, 1996, pp. 12-16.

“A Family Affair”

Villa Luna, Fine Homebuilding: Kitchens & Baths, Issue 271, Winter 2017, Steve Campbell, pp. 72-73.

“A New Kitchen Meant to Be”

Old House Journal, April 2022, pp. 32-33.

 

Giving Back

We are focusing our 2023 community involvement on supporting four local nonprofits through donations and pro bono work. We have chosen these because their community-centered work is close to our hearts and values.

Seattle Public Library: Providing essential resources and services to all residents, including increased community support during the COVID-19 pandemic. The library’s online and archival resources are essential for our historic resources projects.

Seattle Architecture Foundation: Connecting people to the architecture, design, and history of Seattle.

Chief Seattle Club: Providing food, medicine, and housing to practically and spiritually support American Indian and Alaska Native people.

Washington Trust for Historic Preservation: Saving significant places in Washington State and promoting sustainable and economically viable communities through historic preservation.

We encourage you to visit each organization’s web site to learn more about how they help our community. Our firm, as a group or individually, also contributes to other local not-for-profit organizations including:

  • Cascade Bicycle Club
  • Center for Wooden Boats
  • Forterra
  • Friends of Ravenna-Cowen
  • Historic Seattle
  • KEXP FM
  • KUOW
  • Longfellow Creek Legacy Trail
  • Rainier Valley Food Bank
  • Roosevelt Neighborhood Association
  • Seattle Audubon Society
  • Seattle Indian Health Board
  • Theater Simple
  • Washington Trails Association
  • World Bicycle Relief

We all want to make a difference.

 

Affiliations

Members of the American Institute of Architects
  • American Institute of Architects (AIA), National Chapter & Seattle Chapter
  • Association for Preservation Technology International
  • Cascadia Region Green Build Council
  • Historic Seattle
  • National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
  • National Trust for Historic Preservation
  • Society of Architectural Historians, Marion Dean Ross Chapter
  • Timber Framers Guild
  • United States Green Build Council (USGBC)
  • Washington Trust for Historic Preservation
 

Land Acknowledgment

Recognizing that our office, our homes, and much of our service areas are located on the traditional land of the first people of Seattle, Studio TJP pays rent to Duwamish Tribal Services, supporting the revival of Duwamish culture and the vitality of the Duwamish Tribe.

Learn more about Real Rent Duwamish.