Integrated Architectural and Engineering Services
Westlund Architecture & Engineering is a Wisconsin-based architecture and engineering firm founded in 2021 by Thomas A. Westlund. Headquartered in Ashland, Wisconsin, with staff located from Ashland to Milwaukee, our geographic presence allows us to efficiently serve public and private clients throughout the State.
We provide integrated architectural, plumbing, and mechanical, and electrical design services, supported by in-house expertise in accessibility and building code compliance. This multidisciplinary approach reduces coordination challenges, streamlines design decisions, and supports efficient project delivery from concept through construction.
Our team brings extensive experience working with the State of Wisconsin and a wide range of federal, state, and local government agencies. We understand the regulatory, funding, and operational realities of publicly funded projects and design with those constraints in mind. Our work emphasizes clarity, constructability, and compliance - helping clients minimize review comments, avoid redesign, and make effective use of resources.
A defining strength of our firm is our background in both design and plan review. This dual perspective allows us to anticipate regulatory and code issues early in the design process, resulting in smoother approvals, fewer construction-phase surprises, and more predictable project outcomes. We place a strong emphasis on accessibility, life safety, and energy compliance, integrating these requirements seamlessly into the overall design.
Our goal is to deliver projects that are safe, durable, efficient, and appropriate for their intended use - supporting long-term performance and stewardship of client investment.
Licenses & Professional Credentials
• Architects
• HVAC Designers
• Plumbing Designers
• Electrical Designers
• Inspectors
Our primary goal during this phase is to understand your vision, goals, and constraints. We meet with you to discuss the project’s purpose, functional requirements, schedule, and budget. We analyze site conditions, zoning regulations, and environmental considerations to evaluate feasibility and potential constraints. The outcome of this phase is a comprehensive project brief that clearly defines the scope, objectives, and anticipated deliverables, serving as a roadmap for the entire project.
During the Schematic Design phase, we develop initial design concepts that explore the project’s overall form, spatial relationships, and functionality. We prepare preliminary sketches, diagrams, and layout studies to illustrate design options. This phase is highly collaborative—we present concepts for your review and incorporate your feedback to refine the direction of the design. The result is a clear design concept that establishes the project’s overall vision and serves as the foundation for further development.
In the Design Development phase, we refine the approved schematic design and add greater detail and clarity. We develop detailed floor plans, sections, elevations, and three-dimensional representations while selecting materials, finishes, and building systems. We coordinate closely with structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers to ensure all systems are well integrated. The outcome is a coordinated and well-defined design that balances aesthetics, functionality, and technical performance.
This phase focuses on preparing the detailed technical drawings and specifications required for construction. We produce comprehensive architectural, structural, and MEP documents, including material and finish schedules. These documents are prepared to meet applicable building codes, zoning requirements, and safety regulations, and they provide contractors with clear and precise instructions for construction.
During the permitting phase, we prepare and submit required documentation to the Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for review and approval. This may include State review submittals, local building permit applications, code compliance reports, and other regulatory documentation. We coordinate with building officials and inspectors, respond to comments, and revise documents as necessary to achieve approval. Obtaining permits is a critical step that ensures the project complies with all applicable legal and safety requirements prior to construction.
In this phase, we assist with issuing bid packages to qualified contractors and respond to questions during the bidding period. We help evaluate contractor proposals, provide clarifications, and assist you in comparing bids. Once a contractor is selected, we support contract negotiations to help establish clear expectations and prepare the project for construction.
During construction, we work to ensure the project is built in accordance with the design intent and contract documents. Our services include site visits, review of shop drawings and submittals, and responding to contractor questions. We assist in addressing unforeseen conditions, issuing clarifications, and monitoring progress to help maintain quality, schedule, and compliance. This phase requires close collaboration among our team, the contractor, and you as the owner.
The Post-Construction phase marks the completion and transition of the project to ownership. We conduct a final walkthrough to identify outstanding items and prepare a punch list for completion. Once all items are resolved, we assist in compiling and delivering closeout documentation, including as-built drawings, warranties, and operation and maintenance manuals. This phase ensures a smooth handover and a fully functional, well-documented facility ready for use.