About Us

Why name a firm after a lopsided cow? They are more inspiring than you might think. Sidehill Design Studio is named after the mythical sidehill gouger, also known, lovingly, as the wampahoofus - a whimsical creature that has adapted to its environment in a creative way. They look a little different depending on where you find them, but up here in Vermont the wampahoofus is a cow with shorter legs on one side of its body, allowing it to walk nimbly on the slopes of the Green Mountains. At Sidehill Design Studio we strive to design in the spirit of the wampahoofus. Our buildings are adapted to their surroundings, both environmental and cultural. Each project is unique and exciting, designed to belong in its setting, respond to the needs of the client, and improve the experience of the people who live or work in it. Our custom designs are tailored to each individual client and building site, creating buildings that have a strong a sense of place and are thoughtful about their impact on the landscape around them.

When Sidehill Design takes on a project, we are involved from the initial brainstorming session to the final walkthrough. We believe that a great building comes from the care that goes into it, from the structure itself to the finish details. We put thought into every element: material choices and sustainability, interior and exterior spaces and circulation, lighting, custom interiors and cabinetry, and countless other elements that work in concert to create a beautiful building that will stand the test of time.

Wampahoofus Project

Sidehill Design Studio has built a tradition around our annual holiday card - each year we find a local artist and ask them to an image paying homage to our whimsical namesake.

Our Team

Sidehill Design was launched by architect Jeff McBride in 2021. Since then, we have taken on projects spanning the state of Vermont and been recognized for design excellence awards by the American Institute of Architects Vermont chapter.

  • Jeff is the Principal Architect and co-founder of Sidehill Design Studio. He has been practicing architecture for over 20 years. He received a Master’s in Architecture from Yale University, and an undergraduate degree in Art History and Studio Art from Williams College.

    Jeff has experience with both residential and commercial architecture, and has worked at award-winning firms across the east coast.

    Jeff is a registered architect, a member of the American Institute of Architects, and a LEED accredited professional in green building and design. He currently serves on the board of the Vermont chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

  • Megan is a co-founder of Sidehill Design Studio. She coordinates business operations and spearheads Sidehill Design’s sustainability work. She is a sustainability expert with over 15 years of experience working in both the public and the private sector.

    Megan holds a master’s degree from Tufts University and an undergraduate degree from Williams College. Her background in sustainable development and passion for design come together in her work at Sidehill Design.

    Megan lives in Vermont with her husband Jeff, their two children, and a giant dog named Hopscotch.

  • Jacob is a Designer with a strong foundation in architecture and craftsmanship. He holds a master’s degree in architectural design from Norwich University, and is actively preparing for licensure exams. Jacob completed his master’s work in Berlin, Germany, where he focused on multi-generational housing.

  • Hopscotch grew up in an architecture office and was recently promoted to official office manager and taste tester at Sidehill Design Studio.