Derek holds a Professional Degree in Architecture from the University of Oregon; is a member of the USGBC (United States Green Building Council), the ASA (Acoustical Society of America), the AES (Audio Engineering Society) and is a LEED Certified Professional, since 2001.

Working with a small firm means that clients get one-on-one attention from the same person throughout the process.

That focus begins with design: cultivating good ideas that bring to life exactly what clients need, joining both budget and dreams together with inspired, sensible design.

Once underway, close contact with contractors and tradespeople early on in the project ensures good working relationships and a solution-oriented team of professionals, throughout.

“I paid my way through school swinging a hammer (and a shovel), then teaching construction.  For over 25 years, I’ve worked on projects next door and halfway around the world, for scores of different clients from many walks of life; from fences to dream homes; basement studios and home offices to corporate headquarters; remodels and additions; new construction; from the simple to the complex; from grandiose to humble.

It always boils down to the same:  good people, with good ideas, doing good work together.

I began my practice with design/build projects, and now focus on design; teaming up with general contractors, structural engineers and tradespeople; bringing that critical field experience to the table along with a passion for sorting out how it actually goes together.

I also look for opportunities to incorporate landscape design into the typical project, working to integrate indoors and outdoors, restoring a unified approach to building and site that is at the center of good design.”

Derek leads a double life in music, as well as design, performing regularly both live and in the studio, in addition to composing, producing and recording original music for all sorts of obscure projects, and occasionally for film and television.

Check out trostmotion.com for a peek into Derek’s industrial design work for the video+film industry.  (There are 2 pending patents for this portable Camera Dolly Slider, already in use on all seven continents…)