About Us
Individually and as a firm, we are driven to instill change by dedicating time, resources and design expertise to environmental and community organizations.
Our Team
Luke Jackson, aia, ncarb
Education
– Master of Architecture — University of Oregon, 2001
– Bachelor’s of Art in Architecture — Washington University in St. Louis, 1997
Community Engagement
– Montana Food Bank Network – Board of Directors
– Missoula County Board of Adjustments – Board Member
Inspired by the positive impact that good design can have on everyday life, Luke co-founded Loci Architecture + Design to pursue thoughtful, simple design solutions appropriate for the Mountain West. To adapt the humbleness of vernacular architecture to our time combines the power of landscape, seasons, and daylight. This ethos also requires global awareness of our vital resources in contemporary, contextual design. Luke’s work is sensitive to place and thoughtful in execution.
Design projects are complex, and Luke excels at researching, analyzing, and distilling the decision-making process so it’s approachable for each client.
His strengths in planful design and construction execution ultimately manifest in creative and beautiful projects that emphasize the efficiency of materials and building systems. Luke has been described as a “task master,” and yet, he develops compassionate connections with everyone who make the projects come to life.
Prior to founding Loci, Luke worked on projects of all types and scales for firms in Missoula and New York City. He has served on numerous boards and committees in Western Montana, and supports the Montana Food Bank Network to end hunger in the state of Montana. Outside of the office, Luke loves to travel and play outdoors, whether it be shreddin’ the nar with his kiddo and friends at Snowbowl or reflecting on the newest art installation with his family.
Sarah Ayers, aia, ncarb, csba
Education
– University of Washington – Master of Architecture, 2005
– Portland State University – Bachelor Degree in Architecture, 2001
Certifications
– National Sustainable Building Advisory Program, 2006, Certified Sustainable Building Adviser
Community Engagement
– Home ReSource – Board of Directors
– Families First Learning Lab – Board of Directors
A founding partner of Loci Architecture + Design, Sarah’s work embraces the spirit of collaboration and is inspired by place. She is dedicated to the craft of building that is in harmony with the environment and enhances the lives of its users. Her passion for architecture is rooted in the belief that good design has the ability to enrich and uplift the everyday experience.
Sarah spent her childhood on her dad’s construction sites, where she developed an appreciation for the craft of building. Architecture literally runs through her veins; her love of craft and people are reflected in every project and the relationships formed through each project. Sarah brings calm to a process that can be chaotic, and she works tirelessly to realize her client’s vision, support the contractors, and empower her colleagues.
Prior to founding Loci, Sarah practiced architecture in the Pacific Northwest before returning home to Montana in 2014 to raise her family in a community that means so much to her. While she brings nearly two decades of experience designing a wide range of project types and scales, she’s particularly passionate for residential design of all types. Sarah seeks inspiration and balance in the mountains, whether it’s biking with her twin boys up a trail or carving turns down the mountain after them on a powder day. Sarah is always up for an adventure, but she never forgets to appreciate the importance of home and seeks contentment through enjoying the simple things in life.
Our Story
Founded
Prior to forming Loci Architecture + Design in 2019, Luke Jackson and Sarah Ayers worked together for several years as colleagues and friends. Both founders were raised in Missoula and grew up playing in the beautiful landscapes of the western United States. Luke and Sarah are committed to their community within the larger context of the region. Individually and as a firm, they are driven to instill change by dedicating time, resources and design expertise to environmental and community organizations.
Belief
Loci is founded on the belief that the best designs evolve out of a collaborative process. Engaging the client during all phases of design and the contractors during construction, our collaborative approach results in a project that reflects both the client’s vision and the craftsmanship of the contractor. They are the conduit to bringing this all together, and the collegial studio atmosphere encourages individual creativity and teamwork.
mission
With a shared passion for architecture that is responsive to ‘place,’ Luke and Sarah find inspiration from the people and the environment. They appreciate the rolling hills, steep mountains, open valleys, and beautiful waterways. Meanwhile, the context of the region’s historic development, growth, and modernization create a baseline of their design understanding and informs the firm’s projects on every level. The result is a contemporary regionalism that responds to modern life and honors the heritage of material, craft, and is reflective of the natural world.