Crafting High-Performance Designs for Resilient Communities

Designing for the Next Generation of Developers

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Why partner with us?

Building something great isn’t just about design—it’s about realizing a vision, creating lasting impact, and confidently navigating uncertainty. At Alder, we don’t just draw plans; we bring dreams to life with strategy, foresight, and a deep understanding of what makes places thrive.

Delivering Value Through Design

You have a vision. We help you shape, strengthen, and bring it to life, ensuring that every decision moves you closer to success.

  • Turn Uncertainty into Opportunity – Anticipate challenges early so you can confidently move forward, not hesitate.

  • Empower Bold Decisions – Gain clarity with actionable insights that transform complexity into a roadmap for success.

  • Build with Purpose & Impact – Whether it’s a neighborhood-defining development or a thriving commercial space, we ensure your project delivers value—for you, the community, and the future.

Our process: From Strategy to Execution

A well-structured approach ensures smooth project delivery while optimizing cost, design, and functionality.

Strategize: Optimize Your Site & Development Plan

Every site presents unique challenges and opportunities. We analyze feasibility, zoning constraints, and parking requirements to craft an optimized development strategy.

Plan: Align Design with Cost, Desires & Schedule Goals

Designing for impact requires balancing aesthetics, budget, and sustainability. We refine building footprints and detailing to ensure seamless execution.

Track: Maintain Momentum & Deliver with Confidence

Keeping a project on track means leveraging data and technology for seamless execution. We provide ongoing oversight, ensuring clarity at every stage.

About

Smart, Sustainable Design for Small-Scale Development

Alder is a forward-thinking architectural firm committed to transforming small-scale development with sustainable design solutions and transparent processes. Whether it’s boutique retail, workplace design, or residential spaces, our collaborative approach ensures project success from early planning through completion.

Building the Next Generation of Communities

At Alder, we embrace a new era of small-scale development by combining innovative design, data-driven decisions, and community-focused projects. Our approach front-loads early coordination and integrates cutting-edge technology to help developers navigate zoning regulations, secure funding, and streamline project execution.

Founded by Carrie Schulz and Jason Andersen, Alder aims to jumpstart citizen development. Drawing on diverse architecture, construction, and technology backgrounds, we bring scaled expertise to smaller projects, ensuring that even the most complex developments are impactful and feasible.

Our team has worked globally, offering architectural and management services across the US, LatAm, Japan, and EMEA. We specialize in integrating architecture and technology to deliver optimal client results.

Carrie Schulz AIA - LinkedIn

With expertise in workplace, retail, and restaurant design, Carrie led interdisciplinary teams to craft functional and purpose-driven spaces. Her global experience ensures that Alder’s designs remain innovative and culturally responsive.

Jason Andersen - LinkedIn

Jason bridges architecture, construction, and technology to ensure seamless project delivery. He has consulted for top architecture firms, built high-performing teams, and delivered projects that exceeded expectations.

Our Offering

At Alder, we provide forward-thinking architectural solutions tailored to small developers and commercial clients. Whether you envision a small multifamily housing project or a commercial space, our expertise ensures seamless execution from concept to completion.

Design & Visualization

Bringing ideas to life with innovative design and cutting-edge visualization tools.

  • A well-defined concept is the foundation of a successful project. We craft creative, functional designs that evolve into refined plans, ensuring cohesion across all project phases.

    • Custom concept development based on site conditions and client goals

    • Iterative design process incorporating feedback and refinement

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  • Transforming blueprints into immersive visual experiences, our 3D renderings and interior design services help clients visualize their future spaces before construction begins.

    • Photorealistic 3D renderings and virtual walkthroughs

    • Interior design curation, including materials, finishes, and furniture selections

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  • Accuracy is critical for smooth project execution. We develop precise construction documents that ensure builders, engineers, and contractors have everything needed to bring a design to reality.

    • Permit-ready architectural drawings

    • Detailed specifications for materials and construction methods

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  • Sustainability is at the core of our design philosophy. We integrate high-performance building strategies to reduce environmental impact and enhance long-term value.

    • Energy-efficient and passive design strategies

    • Material selection focusing on sustainability and durability

    • Compliance with green building certifications, including Passive House

Pre-Design & Pre-Construction

Laying the groundwork for a smooth, cost-effective project by identifying risks, optimizing costs, and ensuring constructability.

  • Before breaking ground, we assess a site's potential, addressing zoning, environmental regulations, and development constraints to ensure a viable project.

    • Zoning and building code analysis

    • Site-specific environmental and infrastructure evaluation

    • Highest and best-use recommendations

  • Budgeting is key to a successful development. We help clients balance cost, quality, and efficiency by identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising design integrity.

    • Preliminary cost modeling and budgeting

    • Material and system optimization for efficiency

    • Alternative solutions to reduce construction costs

  • Navigating the regulatory landscape can be complex. We streamline the permitting process and ensure designs are practical and feasible for construction.

    • Review of design for constructability and efficiency

    • Guidance through local permitting processes

    • Risk assessment to mitigate delays and cost overruns

  • A well-prepared bid package ensures a smooth contractor selection process. We develop detailed packages tailored to modular and prefabricated components for streamlined execution.

    • Comprehensive contractor bid documents

    • Specification of prefabricated and modular elements

    • Coordination with procurement teams to ensure smooth execution

Productization & Innovation

Leveraging technology and standardization to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance project outcomes.

  • Consistency is key in scalable development. We create architectural guidelines that maintain design integrity across multiple projects and locations.

    • Standardized design frameworks for repeatable projects

    • Branded guidelines for chain developments and franchises

    • Digital reference tools for seamless implementation

  • Maximizing efficiency through Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA), our modular solutions reduce waste, speed up construction, and lower costs.

    • Prefabricated building components for streamlined construction

    • Offsite construction integration to minimize on-site disruptions

    • Coordination with manufacturers for seamless assembly

  • We provide developers with the marketing assets and digital tools needed to attract buyers and tenants, from visual storytelling to interactive configurators.

    • High-quality project branding and marketing materials

    • Custom digital sales platforms for project visualization

    • Interactive unit selection and customization tools

  • Harnessing the power of data and real-time digital replicas, we optimize project coordination, operations, and long-term maintenance.

    • Building Information Modeling (BIM) for enhanced design accuracy and coordination

    • Digital twin solutions for lifecycle management and facility optimization

    • Integration with construction and asset management platforms

At Alder, we don't just design buildings—we create impactful spaces that align with your vision, budget, and sustainability goals. Let's build something remarkable together!