SEAN HEGSTAD

SEAN HEGSTAD

Founder | LEED AP | Architect

EDUCATION/QULIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Architecture, Andrews University, Berrien Springs, MI 1997

Washington State – Architecture License 2001

LEED Accredited Professional 2009

NCARB Certificate 2012

Lead Architect and founder of Haven Design Workshop

Haven Design Workshop is the culmination of years of inspiration and aspiration for Sean.

“Building my own home has allowed me to better understand the way space affects those who live within the design, how important sticking to a budget is, and how smart choices in design directly affect the final cost of construction.

“This has also helped me listen better to the client’s needs, especially getting all parties to provide feedback on their design,” says Sean. “Good design is about taking the client’s desires and creating something that exceeds their dreams — within their budget.”

BRENDA ZIRKELBACH

BRENDA ZIRKELBACH

Architect

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS

Masters of Architecture, Montana State University, 2010

Washington State – Architecture License 2022

EXPERIENCE

Brenda received her Master’s in Architecture from Montana State University in 2010, after which she started a farm to better understand our food systems.

Since joining the Haven team in 2014 she has since proved an invaluable member of the team with her attention to detail and thirst for building code.

HOBBIES

When not thinking about how design can improve the quality of life for all, she likes biking, yoga, and food. Kristin’s trying to get her into mountain biking.

KATHERINE HAYS

KATHERINE HAYS

Architect, LEED AP BD+C

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
  • Registered Architect, TX – 2012, WA – 2021, NCARB Certified
  • LEED Accredited Professional, BD+C
  • Master of Architecture, Rice University
  • Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Georgia Institute of Technology
EXPERIENCE

Katherine has worked for a variety of firms in West Virginia, Texas, and Washington state. She has had the opportunity to work on diverse project types, including, educational, municipal, residential, commercial, liturgical, and institutional. She enjoys learning about the unique needs of every client and designing solutions to help them meet their goals.

INTERESTS

Katherine enjoys traveling with her family. Having previously lived overseas, she now enjoys exploring the PNW and taking advantage of all the great camping, hiking, and skiing. She also enjoys getting involved in her kids’ activities, including coaching soccer, teaching math club, being a scout den leader, and volunteering with her church.

AMY MATHER

AMY MATHER

Permit Technician

EDUCATION

Academy of Art University, Interior Architecture & Design

QUALIFICATIONS

Amy joined Haven in early 2014. She has a knack for multi-tasking, something she’s picked up as a mother of 4 spirited boys. Her tenacity for detail and a deep understanding of zoning regulations make her critical to the success of every project.

EXPERIENCE

Haven Design Workshop, Permitting Tech, 2014 – Present
250+ Residential, Commercial, Multi-family & Mixed-use permits completed
Permitted projects in multiple counties, including Whatcom,Skagit, Snohomish, Cowlitz, and Kitsap Counties
Municipal permitted projects in:
City of Bellingham
City of Lynden
City of Ferndale
City of Nooksack
City of Blaine
City of Lake Stevens

HOBBIES

Amy enjoys drawing, painting, and landscape design

Annie Horstmeyer

Annie Horstmeyer

Design Technician II

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor of Arts, Environmental Studies with Minor in Mathematics, Bates College
  • Sustainability in Europe, Danish Institute for Study Abroad
  • Introduction to Architectural Design & Theory, Columbia University
EXPERIENCE

Prior to moving to Washington and joining Haven, Annie worked as the Lead Design Engineer for SunCommon, a renewable energy company in Vermont. As a member of the engineering & design team for over six years, Annie designed over 1,200 solar and battery systems for residences and businesses, working with the installation team on each project to ensure customer success. Through this experience as a design engineer, Annie developed a deep knowledge of residential construction, utility systems, electrical and building code, and of renewable energy technology and integration. However, architecture was always a love of hers, studying in various architecture and design programs through high school, college, and more recently at the Yestermorrow Design/Build School. Her interest and study of architecture and construction, combined with her skills in project management, 3D modeling, and graphically communicating information led her to Haven.

INTERESTS

When not at the office, Annie spends her time in the mountains and hills around Bellingham, mountain biking, backcountry skiing and trail running. She has a passion for local food systems, and can be found at the local farmer’s market on the weekends. Aa a firm believer in reducing waste streams, she can often be found rifling through thrift and vintage racks for her next favorite outfit.