Jessen Architects Selected Architect of Record for Port of Edmonds

This post summarizes the Port of Edmonds’ recent selection of Jessen Architects as the new Architect of Record. It outlines what that role will involve and explains why the appointment matters for waterfront resilience, long-term master planning, and community-driven design.

The announcement took place at the Port Commission’s public meeting on August 26. The choice brings a locally based firm with deep community ties into a central role for major projects such as the North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction.

Why the Architect of Record appointment matters

Choosing an Architect of Record (AOR) is more than a procurement step. It establishes who will carry legal responsibility for design documentation, code compliance, and coordination during construction.

For the Port of Edmonds, appointing Jessen Architects signals a commitment to consistent oversight across a portfolio of work. This work ranges from heavy infrastructure to tenant-facing improvements.

The Port’s selection process was competitive and evaluative. The firm’s downtown Edmonds roots and prior local engagement were important factors in the decision.

Scope of services and prioritized projects

Under the agreement, Jessen Architects will provide on-demand architectural services for a wide array of Port initiatives. That flexibility is useful for waterfront authorities managing evolving priorities, grant-driven timelines, and phased construction efforts.

Key project types include:

Implications for resilience and sustainability

With sea-level rise, storm surge, and coastal erosion central to waterfront design, the AOR’s role extends into resilience planning. The Port has tied the partnership to goals for resilience and sustainability, which means integrating adaptive materials and working with engineers and environmental specialists.

The Architect of Record will ensure project documents address permitting requirements, geotechnical constraints, and long-term maintenance needs. This is critical when reconstructing seawalls or building a new portwalk that must withstand marine exposure.

Local commitment and community benefits

Principal architect John Jessen described the appointment as both a professional honor and a personal milestone. The firm’s local commitment often leads to design outcomes that respect local heritage and improve public access.

An on-demand AOR can also accelerate smaller tenant-driven upgrades and signage work that enhance the visitor experience. This continuity allows the Port to present a cohesive vision to residents, businesses, and grant funders.

Next steps and how to learn more

As design phases continue, public engagement opportunities and design milestones will be published by the Port. Collaboration between Jessen Architects, Port staff, engineers, and the community will be important for the North Portwalk, seawall work, and the master plan.

For more information on Jessen Architects and their work, visit www.jessenarchitects.com. The Port of Edmonds’ announcement at the August 26 public meeting marks the start of a partnership focused on the waterfront’s resilience and economic vitality.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Port of Edmonds selects Jessen Architects as Architect of Record