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Esther Liu has transformed LSW Architects, a 70-year-old Pacific Northwest architecture firm, through visionary leadership and environmental stewardship over her 35-year career in the industry.

Liu has designed and managed essentially every building type during three decades in the profession, working through numerous Portland and Vancouver firms before becoming ma-jority owner of LSW Architects approximately two years ago. As both a woman and minority owner, she has guided the firm鈥檚 partners and team toward a more inclusive and environ-mentally advanced practice.

Under Liu鈥檚 leadership, the firm has shifted its attention to mass timber as a core material, reflecting her commitment to the region鈥檚 most renewable and sustainable natural re-sources. This strategic pivot demonstrates her dedication to environmental stewardship and building for future generations, despite resistance to such innovation in the industry.

Liu鈥檚 leadership philosophy centers on culture-building, creating space for every team member to thrive in their 鈥渦nique ability鈥� where passion and skill intersect. This approach has reshaped the firm鈥檚 culture into one of trust, creativity and shared purpose, producing both award-winning design and career fulfillment.

Beyond her firm, Liu has served extensively on boards, steering committees, fundraising committees, community engagement panels, governmental support teams, neighborhood visioning committees and planning groups throughout Portland and Vancouver. She men-tors emerging professionals, and LSW is involved in outreach programs such as Design Commission, which fosters architecture appreciation among local high school students.