91ÊÓƵ

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Renée Strand, principal, owner and managing director at Holst Architecture, has spent 25 years advancing architectural practice while championing equity and transparency in the design profession.

Strand earned her Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Michigan in 2000, then completed her Master of Architecture at the University of Oregon in 2004. She has since established herself as a leader in Portland’s architectural community, guiding major projects while transforming firm operations and industry culture.

At Holst Architecture, where she has provided leadership for 14 years, Strand oversees the firm’s most significant projects while managing office operations, including staffing, policy development, corporate transparency and strategic planning. She was instrumental in helping Holst achieve B Corp certification, meeting rigorous standards for performance, accountability and transparency across diversity and inclusion, employee benefits, community engagement, sustainable operations and design practices. She also guided the firm through Just certification and led its commitment to the National Organization of Minority Architects Call to Action Pledge, which establishes guidelines for supporting, recruiting, retaining and promoting BIPOC individuals in architecture, engineering and construction.

Strand has implemented comprehensive changes that improved design processes, benefits, pay equity and office culture. Her commitment to corporate transparency and fostering an inclusive, equitable workplace has driven continuous operational reviews and improvements that strengthen both the firm and its community impact.

Her recent project leadership includes the Julia West House in downtown Portland, developed for Community Development Partners. The building stands as Oregon’s tallest mass timber structure and provides 90 units of permanent supportive housing and services for BIPOC elders.

Beyond practice, Strand has dedicated more than 20 years to the Architecture Foundation of Oregon’s Architects in Schools program in North and Northeast Portland, introducing elementary students to design principles while developing critical thinking skills and community engagement. She has served as adjunct faculty at multiple institutions, most recently with the University of Oregon’s Portland Architecture program, and continues volunteering for student reviews and university events.

A member of the American Institute of Architects for more than 25 years, Strand has served on multiple committees and as juror for annual design awards across western states. When she joined Portland’s design community, few women held leadership positions. She became an advocate for women in architecture, engineering and construction, recognizing the importance of visible role models. In 2016, she was recognized as a 91ÊÓƵ Woman of Vision for her efforts advancing gender equity in the profession.