A man wearing glasses, a beige T-shirt with bird illustrations, and a green cap, smiling while sitting outdoors at a wooden table near a rocky, coastal area with cloudy skies in the background.

Stephen Galas

CRAFTSMAN / OWNER

With a lifelong passion for building, I've honed my skills in various creative and technical fields. My journey began with model making, earning awards for artistic scratchbuilding in 1975. This foundational experience extended to a larger scale when I collaborated with my father in 1977 to construct a full-size experimental BD-5 airplane. I also have a strong background in remote-control sailplanes, where I won competitions and later taught flying for my club.

My expertise in woodworking began in my youth and developed professionally through my experience making furniture and speaker enclosures, and a job as a general contractor's assistant and finish carpenter. I specialize in custom cabinetry and the installation and modification of European and modern products.

During college, I juggled two jobs while attending USC School of Architecture, designing custom homes for clients. In my designs, I focused on applying the principles of passive and active solar design, integrating the knowledge of physics and sociology I gained from my studies. No project is too big or too small, and the more unique features and associations with other fields of study, the better.

Education

  • California State University, Dominguez Hills

  • San Diego State University

  • The USC School of Architecture

With 15 years of experience in architectural offices in Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades, and Santa Barbara, I have a strong background in custom homes, retail spaces, and large-scale projects. My work often focuses on unique custom homes, with a particular interest in modern design and incorporating water features.

My passion for design extends to a personal level, as I have been a member of the Portland Koi & Goldfish Club and have cultivated extensive collections of orchids, tillandsias, cacti, euphorbias, lithops, and have practiced bonsai for over 30 years.

I grew up and attended college in the Palos Verdes area, and have spent time in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Pacific Palisades. Since 1992, I have called the Portland, Oregon area my home, which has provided a rich environment for both my personal and professional growth.