architecture + design + small space strategies







THE   S O O N  APPROACH TO DESIGN    


Supports
well being

Your home should support mental clarity, rest, and wellbeing. This is achieved through ample connection to the outdoors and natural light, non-toxic building materials, and a floor plan that encourages healthy habits.Grows

with you

Your home should evolve gracefully through all phases of life. You should not grow out of your home, rather it should grow with you. Through strategic planning for longevity, accessible design that is comfortable for all ages, quality materials, and adaptability, the right design can support a breadth of life phases.Holistic
design

These design values are achieved through a holistic approach to design. The site and landscape, house layout, interiors, and furniture are designed congruently to achieve a cohesive home. This goes beyond making it “work”, rather, the home becomes a powerful tool for long-term well-being.Accessible
at all scales

Quality design does not equal extravagance and is not reserved for the wealthy. Quality design that supports wellbeing can be achieved at any scale, from the design of custom furniture, a phased remodel, or a new ADU, small changes can have a big impact.



SERVICES

Master PlanningBig picture design. We work together to plan your dream project, then strategize how to phase the work relative to time and financial accessibility. This is not detailed design work or cost estimating, rather a conceptual framework for the future.  
Residential DesignNew design and build at a variety of scales, from a new residence, remodel or guesthouse. This includes concept design through construction.
Studio & Workshop DesignWith a background in a variety of creative arts, I have experience working in art studios, metal shops, wood shops, jewelry fabrication studios, sewing studios, and ceramic studios. I prioritize safe and clean working spaces, with efficient layouts, storage, appropriate separation of “clean” and “dirty” working areas, and ventilation strategies. I love this work and am very inspired by the craftspeople I work with!  
Small Space StrategiesWhether a remodel, organization strategies, or a new-build with limited space, let’s design solutions that are multi-functional, adaptable, and efficient.









ABOUT



I am educated in architecture and a lifelong self-taught maker with experience working in residential, commercial, workplace, and high-end hospitality architecture practices. I feel most connected to projects and clients who share a sensitivity to site, community, and material craft. I enjoy working with textiles, metal, paint, wood, clay, collage, and many other media.

I have 4+ years working and teaching at the University of Arizona College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture. In my current role at The Drachman Institute, I assist on a variety of research projects, including transitional housing for unhoused Tucson residents and research on middle housing with the aim of making housing more affordable.  

My propensity for arts, crafts, and design has led me to approach architecture from a hand-built, pragmatic lens. I hope to investigate a build-it-yourself (BIY) approach to home building using accessible, natural materials and simple constructability that opens the opportunity for home ownership to more people. 

Visit my personal website here:   jessicamcq.com

for all inquires: jessie.soonstudio@gmail.com
I look forward to meeting you soon