TAYLOR L. THOMPSON

Co Founder and Owner of Taylorsmith

Growing up in Portland, Taylor spent his free time enjoying the outdoors where he developed an appreciation for the beauty of the PNW.  His passions drew him towards architecture, construction, and engineering, eventually pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering at Oregon State University. During his years as a student in Corvallis, he befriended Kevin, co-owner of TaylorSmith and together they further developed their skills as craftsmen.  After graduation, he refined his construction management skills at a commercial construction firm, working on a variety of projects ranging in size and complexity.  Frustrated by the wasteful and often unsustainable practices of commercial construction, he decided to take his talents to the residential industry where he co-founded TaylorSmith. His goals of challenging the common building practices by embracing a more sustainable, and open-minded approach have held true since launching the company in 2016.  Outside of work, he loves being active.  In the summer you’re likely to find him golfing, enjoying time on the water, or backpacking with his wife and golden retriever, and in the winter you’re likely to find him on the mountain snowboarding.

KEVIN E. SMITH

Co Founder and Owner of Taylorsmith

Kevin grew up in Portland and developed a passion for building and design from his father, an Architect with a DIY drive.  The skills he learned at home drove him to attend Benson Polytechnic High school, then eventually Oregon State University where he earned a degree in Civil Engineering and met his friend and future co-founder, Taylor Thompson.

 Post college, Kevin pursued a career in engineering, however his drive for building and craftsmanship led him back to construction and he took a position with Turner, an International Commercial firm.  There he refined his management, business, and estimating skills, but craved a community focused career with sustainability as a core value.  In 2016, Kevin and Taylor established TaylorSmith Sustainable Construction and never looked back. Outside of work when he and his wife aren’t traveling, you might find Kevin tinkering in his garage building furniture or under the hood of a classic car.

LAUREN SHUMAKER

Owner and Director of Operations and Sustainability

Lauren was raised on a produce farm in Vancouver, Washington where she developed an appreciation for hard work and our environment.  As she obtained her degree in Civil Engineering at Portland State University, Lauren focused on sustainable development. She spent over a decade in commercial construction as a Project Manager where she continuously worked to integrate new sustainable building practices.  Lauren is a Certified Passive House Consultant and understands the importance of a properly designed and constructed home for energy performance and comfort. As a past member of the AIA (American Institute of Architects) Material Knowledge Working Group, she brings her background in building material health and sustainability to each project, helping clients select materials that speak to occupant health and environmental awareness. When not working, she enjoys running, biking, gardening, and spending quality time with her Family.

BROOKS HAXTON

Project Manager & Site Superintendent

Brooks grew up on a tree farm in Mississippi, often working for his father’s construction company where he gained experience in a variety of trades including welding, electrical, plumbing, timber framing, concrete, and heavy equipment maintenance and repairs.  Brooks’ interest in construction and machines led him to get a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University.  After college, he developed skills reading blueprints, estimating, and business management, leading him to start his own construction company which he successfully ran for over 15 years.  After starting a family, Brooks closed his business in search of a family-oriented company that shared his passion for quality and sustainable construction. 

CLARISA HOWE

Project Manager

Clarisa grew up in the mountains of Northern California. Her interest in building peaked while she helping her parents build their own house. She interned with TaylorSmith while studying mechanical engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. After working as an equipment engineer in the semiconductor industry where she honed her project management skills, she started full time with the team to continue her passion for home building.

DEREK ADAMS

Lead Carpenter

Derek grew up in Southern California and was inspired to build by his grandfather, a woodworker, and his father who owned a small roofing company. His interest in sustainable design and construction led him to pursue a degree in Urban Planning from UC Irvine. Post college, Derek worked for a geotechnical engineering firm and earned LEED AP credentials, with the intention of going back to school for architecture. However, Derek and his wife decided to move to Portland on a whim, which eventually led him back to his passion for woodworking. Specializing in cabinetry and furniture, Derek brings a detailed eye to all of his work.