ABOUT PROPEL STUDIO
Propel Studio Architecture is a Portland based architecture practice working across housing, mixed use, small commercial, educational, and custom residential projects.
The studio focuses on delivering durable, high performance buildings that balance design quality, constructability, and cost.
The practice has experience with affordable housing and other regulated project types, and is comfortable working within complex technical, coordination, and approval processes. Propel Studio brings this same rigor and clarity to custom residential and small commercial work, maintaining a hands on and detail driven approach at all project scales.
Propel Studio collaborates closely with clients, builders, and consultants from early concept through construction. Sustainability is approached as a practical design tool, with emphasis on envelope performance, energy efficiency, material longevity, and long term operational value.
Nick Mira, AIA, LEED AP
Founder and Principal
Nick Mira is a licensed architect with experience in housing, mixed use, commercial, institutional, and educational projects. His work includes affordable housing, multifamily mixed use buildings, custom homes, and small commercial projects, with a strong emphasis on high performance and sustainable design.
Nick is licensed in Oregon and Washington and has over 25 years of experience working on technically challenging projects. His portfolio includes high performance homes and sustainable buildings across commercial mixed use, office, research, and healthcare environments.
Prior to founding Propel Studio, Nick worked on several national award winning institutional and high performance buildings, contributing from early design through construction documentation and construction administration. His background includes regulatory review, interdisciplinary coordination, and delivery of complex building systems.
Nick brings a rigorous and collaborative approach to practice, participating in all project phases with acute attention to detail. His leadership and technical expertise allow him to guide projects through complexity while maintaining clarity of documentation, constructability, and strong working relationships with project teams.
Propel Studio is based in Portland, Oregon and works with public and private clients throughout the region.
Our Values
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: At Propel Studio Architecture, we place diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at the core of our culture and practice. We recognize diversity as a strength, fostering an environment where every voice is valued and empowered to contribute unique talents. Our commitment to equity ensures that all individuals—team members, clients, and partners—are treated with respect and given equal opportunities. Inclusion is both a guiding principle and a strategic advantage that enhances our work and strengthens our mission. We continuously evolve our practices to ensure that DEI principles are embedded in every aspect of our operations and projects.
Project Outreach and Engagement: We believe successful projects are built through collaboration and active engagement. From concept to completion, we prioritize transparent communication and proactive outreach with clients, stakeholders, and communities. By listening and incorporating their feedback, we create designs that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people we serve. This approach fosters trust and ensures that our solutions have a positive and lasting impact.
Design Equity: We strive to create equitable and inclusive designs that serve all people. By listening, reflecting, and collaborating with the communities we serve, we ensure that our projects are fair, accessible, and welcoming. Design equity is central to our work and informs how we approach every project, helping us create spaces that are functional, inclusive, and meaningful.
Awards
2021 Top Project Finalist - Affordable Housing | Daily Journal of Commerce Oregon
Best of Houzz | 2014, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025
2019 Structure and Style Awards | Oregon Home Magazine | Best House under 3,000 SF
Emerging Professionals Exhibit | 2015 AIA National
Emerging Professionals Exhibit | 2016 AIA National
STITCH Design Competition | 2014 AIA Portland | Honorable Mention
Press
Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce’s Project of the week: The Wilder Apartments | Seattle DJC, 2024
Everything you need to know about building an ADU in Portland, Oregon | Dwell, 2021
Permits for in-law flats and other ADUs are down but interest remains high | The Oregonian, 2020
Alberta Commons: Doing business on Dream Street | Portland Tribune, 2019
Alberta grocery store gets a lively refresh | Portland Business Journal, 2019
ADUs could help transform Portland's housing scene | Portland Business Journal, 2019
Want a rentable granny flat? Check out Portland's Accessory Dwelling Unit Tour | Portland Business Journal, 2019
Homes to grow old in | Business Tribune, 2018
Gateway Green receives wayfinding signage | Mid-County Memo, 2018
Tour a sustainable home | Furniture Lighting & Decor, 2017