United in purpose, combining experience, resources, and infrastructure to expand PreK-12 and civic practice into the Pacific Northwest
In a strategic move to expand its impact and capabilities, HMC Architects is pleased to announce the acquisition of Bassetti Architects, a Seattle- and Portland-based architecture firm with a 78-year history of educational and civic design leadership in the Pacific Northwest. This acquisition brings together two firms deeply committed to serving communities and enhancing the built environment through design, positioning HMC to deliver a broader array of services to clients throughout the Western U.S.
With roots firmly established in the Pacific Northwest, Bassetti Architects brings an exceptional legacy of design expertise in PreK-12 schools, higher education, and civic projects. Bassetti’s seasoned architects and designers have worked with iconic clients and communities, creating impactful designs for generations. The acquisition strengthens HMC’s capabilities in these markets while enabling both firms to share resources, insights, and talent to better serve their clients and communities.
Welcoming Bassetti Architects into the HMC family is an exciting milestone for us,” said HMC President and CEO Brian Staton. “This partnership expands our reach and enhances our ability to design innovative, community-focused spaces. We’re united in purpose and better equipped to address clients’ evolving needs with an even more significant impact on our communities.
The heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to creating designs that serve the greater good. Both firms believe in the transformative power of architecture to make a positive difference in the world. From Bassetti’s focus on designing spaces that inspire learning and connection to HMC’s Design for Good ethos, which prioritizes sustainability, equity, and well-being, the partnership aligns with values that drive meaningful, lasting change.
Bassetti Architects is also recognized as a leader in sustainable design, particularly for its innovative use of mass timber in educational and civic projects. Mass timber is a renewable, low-carbon material that enhances buildings’ aesthetic and structural integrity and aligns with HMC’s commitment to sustainability and climate action. Integrating Bassetti’s expertise in mass timber will allow HMC to further its sustainability goals and support California Governor Gavin Newsom’s plan to accelerate green construction and reduce the state’s carbon footprint.
“We are thrilled to combine our passion for sustainability and our expertise in mass timber with HMC’s established leadership in sustainable design,” said Bassetti Architects Principal Michael Davis. “Together, we can push the boundaries of green building practices and deliver forward-thinking solutions that positively impact both the environment and the communities we serve.”
The acquisition also signals an expanded focus on creating safe, resilient learning environments that enhance student success, wellness, and community connections. By combining HMC’s expertise in higher education and healthcare with Bassetti’s depth in PreK-12 and civic projects, the firms will bring clients a powerful combination of knowledge, creativity, and technical ability.
This partnership ensures continuity for clients while offering additional resources and capabilities. The firms share values and mutual respect, making the transition seamless for employees and clients.
“As we look to the future, we’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will create for our employee-owners and the communities we serve,” added Staton. “This union allows us to further our shared ethos of Design for Good by expanding the positive impacts we can make together through architecture and planning. With Bassetti’s expertise in mass timber, we’re uniquely positioned to lead in sustainable design and help shape the future of green construction in California and beyond.”
HMC Architects specializes in education, healthcare, and civic projects, creating spaces that enrich communities and drive meaningful change. Recognized as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies in 2024, HMC consistently ranks among the nation’s top design firms. Founded in 1947, Bassetti Architects has built a legacy of designing environments that inspire learning, strengthen connections, and celebrate civic identity.
