Linden, Brown Architecture

is a collective of designers and makers based in Portland, Oregon. Drawn to the Pacific Northwest’s staggering landscapes and vibrant communities, we see the rich qualities of the natural environment as inspiration for built, architectural spaces. The places we build benefit from the legacy of design and craftsmanship of this place, whether in its historic culture of materiality or in the contemporary entrepreneurial culture of making.

Our work is responsive and resourceful, using an economy of means towards a maximum of meaning. We form lasting relationships with clients, builders, artists, and craftspeople, creating timeless places of shared experience. Our studio is a place of exploration, curiosity and wonder, finding the beauty and possibilities in every design.

L,BA was founded in 2018 by Chris Brown and Brent Linden, bringing together more than 35 years of collective effort towards architecture of the highest aspirations. In 2023, we were awarded the prestigious Design Vanguard Award from Architectural Record. Before forming L,BA, Chris and Brent designed and led an array of award-winning and culturally significant public projects at internationally acclaimed practices, including the Clyfford Still Museum in Denver Colorado, the US Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, and the Benton County Historical Society—Corvallis Museum in Corvallis, Oregon.

Chris & Brent

  • Raised in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, Chris earned a Bachelors of Architecture from the University of Arkansas, receiving traveling fellowships to study internationally in Rome and Mexico City. After completing those studies, Chris worked in several internationally recognized design practices, including Marlon Blackwell Architects and Allied Works, where he led numerous significant civic, institutional, and residential projects.

    As a founding partner of Linden, Brown Architecture, Chris brings his extensive experience and sensitive design approach to every project, creating thoughtful spaces with tactile materials and abundant natural light.

    Chris also teaches graduate design studios at the University of Oregon School of Architecture and Environment, serves on design juries, and is a member of the Professional Advisory Board at the University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design.

    Education —

    • University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture, Bachelor of Architecture Magna Cum Laude

    Professional Registration and Affiliation —

    • Licensed Architect in Oregon and Washington

    • Adjunct Professor, University of Oregon School of Architecture and Environment

    • Member, AIA

    • Member, Professional Advisory Board, University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture

    • Member, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards

    Contact —

  • Brent was born and raised in South Florida, achieving his Bachelor of Architecture degree at the University of Florida School of Architecture and Construction. After working at the acclaimed firm of Skidmore Owings & Merrill in New York City, Brent completed his master’s degree at Rice University, receiving significant awards and fellowships including the Rice Visionary Award and the Lovett Traveling Fellowship. He spent fifteen years at Allied Works, primarily leading the design of cultural institutions, creative workspaces, and residences. After holding a series of leadership positions there, including Design Director and Director of the New York office, Brent cofounded Linden, Brown Architecture in 2018.

    Education —

    • Rice University, School of Architecture, Master of Architecture, with Honors

    • University of Florida, School of Architecture, Bachelor of Architecture, with Honors

    Professional Registration and Affiliation —

    • Licensed Architect in Oregon

    • Member, AIA

    • Member, National Council of Architectural Registration Board

    Contact—

  • ben@lindenbrownarchitecture.com

People

Awards

2023 AN Best Of Commercial Hospitality—
Sequitur Winery

2023 Oregon AIA Honor Award—
Sequitur Winery

2023 Architectural Record Design Vanguard Award Winner—
Linden, Brown Architecture Firm Award

2023 Residential Design Magazine Honor Award—
Gradient House and Studio

2022 Oregon AIA Honor Award—
Gradient House and Studio

2022 Fay Jones School of Architecture Alumni Honor Award—
Gradient House and Studio

Press