Rene Berndt

“I am inspired by the multitude of social, emotional, and physical characteristics that make each human unique, and I like to translate those into the creation of built environments that generate wellbeing.”

With almost 30 years of architectural experience, Rene offers extensive knowledge of learning environments that address the specific needs of every age group of learners. Through an engaging process that is based on active participation by all stakeholders, Rene deepens his understanding of the social, emotional, and physical characteristics, goals, and dreams of learners, educators, and community members on every project. His proposed design solutions aim to turn every building into a useful tool for all users, minimizing the ecological footprint and creating general wellbeing.

Rene enjoys sharing his work and research during university lectures and conference presentations. His work has been featured in numerous design publications, including Architectural Record, and has been recognized with diverse regional and national AIA CAE and A4LE design awards. Most notably for the MHCC Early Childcare Center in Gresham, Oregon, Thurston Elementary School in Springfield, Oregon, and Roosevelt Middle School in Eugene, Oregon.

Rene came to Mahlum following six years of practice in Berlin, Germany, as well as six years working in Los Angeles and Monterey, California. He graduated from the Technical University of Aachen (RWTH) in Germany and studied at London’s Architectural Association School of Architecture as a British Council Scholarship recipient. He is a registered architect in California and Washington.