Testimonials
We hired MWA, specifically the team of Kurt and Kristi, to design our home in Truckee in mid-2010. They worked with us through design, contractor selection, and the construction process that ended in mid-2012. While the "gender-equality" of their team made them a comfortable choice for my wife and I, it was their design talent that truly set them a part. Additionally, as we went through the entire process, it was both their ability to listen to our thoughts and concerns, and their ability to read between the lines of our requests, that truly made the relationship so successful and special. If given a second chance, we would make the same choice in design professionals without a second's hesitation. Highly recommended.
-- biggerunn
I have worked with the MWA team as an energy consultant for almost twenty years, and have been impressed with their professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail since the beginning. The California Energy Code changes frequently, and MWA is always eager to understand how each iteration will affect their design process. Energy efficiency is clearly something that MWA values and integrates into their design process, and they seem happy to incorporate new and emerging technologies for their clients that are interested in being on the leading edge, while also creating highly efficient homes using more standard technologies for those who prefer that route.
MWA has my highest praise and recommendation.
-- Denise Kowal
MWA has my highest praise and recommendation.
MWA and specifically Kristi Thompson took an eye sore of a house, tore it down, and redesigned a beautiful mountain home on the same foot print. Most importantly, she designed the house "we " wanted. WE wanted an open floor plan that maximized our view of the Martis Valley, accommodated our grown children's families, and utilized low maintenance materials ( like tile and stone floors, pavers on the patio and driveway).
BUT the best part of all is all the little things Kristi did that are just part of their "normal" design. Like- extra wide counters, exposed beams in all the rooms, great roof line design, no exposed beams under the roof overhang, fantastic window placement and size, outdoor entries that make access easy in the winter and summer. and the functionallity of the floor plan.
Each time we use the house, whether it's my wife and I, or our whole family , we love it. It's cozy for two or twelve.
They always say you get what you pay for. So if you want a low ball price use another firm. But if you are willing to pay a little more---you will get the house of your dreams.
Frank and Dianne Hodges
-- fdhodges
BUT the best part of all is all the little things Kristi did that are just part of their "normal" design. Like- extra wide counters, exposed beams in all the rooms, great roof line design, no exposed beams under the roof overhang, fantastic window placement and size, outdoor entries that make access easy in the winter and summer. and the functionallity of the floor plan.
Each time we use the house, whether it's my wife and I, or our whole family , we love it. It's cozy for two or twelve.
They always say you get what you pay for. So if you want a low ball price use another firm. But if you are willing to pay a little more---you will get the house of your dreams.
Frank and Dianne Hodges
Our team at Heller Construction, Inc. have been working with Kurt Reinkens and Kristi Thompson and the MWA team for years. MWA is on the forefront of green building in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It is always such an enjoyable experience to work alongside them and then physically build their unique and inspiring designs. Working together from concept to finished home has demonstrated our cohesive relationship,apparent in the finished product.
-- Heller Construction, Inc.
Kurt, Eli, Donavan, Morgan et al at MWA turned our cabin remodel vision into an absolute stunning masterpiece. Throughout the conceptualization, design, and rendering process, our interactions were fun, exciting, exacting, horizon-stretching, yet realistic. Kurt's ability to visualize the optimal placement of windows maximizes the natural light throughout the day. The end product surpassed our expectations.
BRAVO!
-- JD Lee
BRAVO!
We had such a terrific experience with Kristi at MWA. Honestly, we can't say enough about her friendly personality, attention to detail and pride in her work. We saw MWA's advertisement in a magazine and simply called to make an appointment. Kristi came to our home for a casual interview and from there suggested a few builders that we might consider in the Tahoe Area. Kristi led us to our awesome builder, Heller Construction and from there it was cake. What began as a small remodel turned into a full on renovation down to the foundation. Kristi rolls with the punches and has an awesome team of engineers and office staff to make it all look seamless. Let me assure you, she's just the gal you want representing your project when the going gets tough! On time, on budget...happy clients that are forever grateful.
-- Jessica Coleman
Kristi/Karin,
On October 18, we moved into the new house that you designed for us and have been enjoying it immensely. It is even nicer than we had envisaged when we were looking at the plans on paper. The living space (Great Room, kitchen, eating area) are working out perfectly. We’ve had two sets of guests up already and having all that open space has been very handy. All the large windows in the back (Great Room, kitchen, master bedroom) make it feel like we’re camping. The steel staircase complements the exposed steel beams and posts and is a phenomenal centerpiece as you walk into the house.
We greatly appreciate the collaborative way in which you worked with us to come up with this design. We had some ideas on what we were after when we began the process, but you were able to shape our inchoate thoughts into something really spectacular. You also were very proactive in talking with the town’s building department and submitting our permit application at a fortuitous time for us. We also valued your input on what it would cost to build the place. Interestingly, despite COVID and all the related supply chain issues we’ve experienced over the past year and a half, our actual construction cost came in very close to your original ball park estimate.
Thank you very much for your partnership in helping us realize a real dream home.
All the best,
Joe Naylor & Karen Torres
-- Joe Naylor
On October 18, we moved into the new house that you designed for us and have been enjoying it immensely. It is even nicer than we had envisaged when we were looking at the plans on paper. The living space (Great Room, kitchen, eating area) are working out perfectly. We’ve had two sets of guests up already and having all that open space has been very handy. All the large windows in the back (Great Room, kitchen, master bedroom) make it feel like we’re camping. The steel staircase complements the exposed steel beams and posts and is a phenomenal centerpiece as you walk into the house.
We greatly appreciate the collaborative way in which you worked with us to come up with this design. We had some ideas on what we were after when we began the process, but you were able to shape our inchoate thoughts into something really spectacular. You also were very proactive in talking with the town’s building department and submitting our permit application at a fortuitous time for us. We also valued your input on what it would cost to build the place. Interestingly, despite COVID and all the related supply chain issues we’ve experienced over the past year and a half, our actual construction cost came in very close to your original ball park estimate.
Thank you very much for your partnership in helping us realize a real dream home.
All the best,
Joe Naylor & Karen Torres
We were referred to MWA by our builder Gerald Meng of Meng Construction. He builds a high quality custom home so we first visited MWA with high expectations. They were met! Kurt and Kristy listened to what we wanted and envisioned and designed the home of our dreams and a home that went on to win the Home OF The Year award in Tahoe Quarterly Mag. We highly recommend MWA.
-- jtvanber
I found MWA through Houzz.com and they were great. Morgan, the architect I worked with, saw my dream from the start and worked with me to realize it on paper. She saw the project through all of the permit processes from the homeowners association through the county and working with my contractor. I would absolutely use MWA again and would recommend them to anyone! I will update as the project completes.
-- Karen Sagarra
We purchased our home new around 20 years ago and we wanted a firm to guide us in a transformation that would include the addition of 2 more bedrooms, a wine cellar, a spa and expanded family room. After interviewing several design firms we choose to work with Kristi and her team at MWA and we are very satisfied with our choice.
The project was extensive and included an excavation under the existing home to add a third floor and expansion of the home’s footprint to accommodate access to the 3 floors. MWA developed a creative floor plan and brought their engineering expertise to a rather complex project. The project is recently completed and we are very pleased with the results and we now have a beautiful home with plenty of room for our grandchildren and guests.
-- KI Kimball & Marianne Igleheart
The project was extensive and included an excavation under the existing home to add a third floor and expansion of the home’s footprint to accommodate access to the 3 floors. MWA developed a creative floor plan and brought their engineering expertise to a rather complex project. The project is recently completed and we are very pleased with the results and we now have a beautiful home with plenty of room for our grandchildren and guests.
We are very satisfied with the work MWA did for us. They have been helpful and responsive during every phase of the project. They listened carefully to us and created a beautiful design which met our needs, and optimized the beauty and functionality of our home in our location. We hired them for the variety and creativity they showed in their previous projects and they did not let us down.
-- kmabbott
Our custom built home is over 20 years old and needed a "refresh". The house is quite unique with few 90 degree walls, has an interesting architectural perspective, but with rooms that were just off-purpose. We wanted to move the house into the 21st century!
Kristi Thompson was very creative and provided for us a vision that we could implement in pieces, over time, subject to travel schedule and dollars. We have just completed phase one
and are totally pleased with the outcome!
-- Marilyn D
Kristi Thompson was very creative and provided for us a vision that we could implement in pieces, over time, subject to travel schedule and dollars. We have just completed phase one
and are totally pleased with the outcome!
The principal architects, Kurt and Kristi, are not only extremely talented in architecture and design, but pay strict attention to what it is that the clients wish in their home or commercial project. So often architects are not adaptable but these folks are.
They also make a genuine effort to stay within budget though that is so difficult to control with costs bouncing all over the place and clients changing their minds during construction.
For character and ability, I whole heartedly recommend MWA.
-- slangtrk
They also make a genuine effort to stay within budget though that is so difficult to control with costs bouncing all over the place and clients changing their minds during construction.
For character and ability, I whole heartedly recommend MWA.
I have had the pleasure of working with MWA Architects on numerous projects dating back to 1990. Not only have I built homes they designed for mutual clients but I have hired them to design several homes for my family as well as multiple successful speculative projects. They possess the knowledge and expertise required for me, as a custom home builder, to easily connect the dots and bring our clients dreams to reality. Their flexibility and creative approach results in homes that are admired by many and loved by those with the privilege of living in them.
-- suncoscott
Kurt Reinkens and his team at MWA designed our spectacular home in Martis Camp. They worked closely with us in creating a floor plan that was extremely functional and well suited for entertaining. They were masters at studying the topography of our large two acre site, and designed the home to take advantage of the views, privacy and curb appeal. The unique architecture was a perfectly executed balance of mountain architecture with a modern flair.
-- tracimitch
Kristi Thompson and her design team at MWA, Inc. was a pleasure to work with. They listened to our wishes, design criteria and looked at out bubble diagrams and incorporated it all into the architectural plans. Another bonus was that they worked quickly with the local agencies and obtained our permits in a timely fashion. The house has numerous unique qualities and isn’t a standard ‘Tahoe Mountain Home’. Instead it is an ‘eclectic house’ as Kristi called it as each room has its own character. We are very pleased with the final design of the house; and love living in it.
-- Mignone Wood
Acumen Engineering has teamed with Kurt Reinkens, Kristi Thompson and MWA on no less than 13 projects in the greater Truckee area over the past 11 years. The scope of the projects has ranged from single-and multi-family residential buildings to renovation of historic structures in downtown Truckee to commercial and mixed-use planned developments.
In all cases, I did not hesitate to work with the firm because:
• Kurt and Kristi manage projects effectively
• Deadlines and expectations are known ahead of time, no last minute crisis
• All of the team members have a say in the design effort
• The architects know the applicable building and development codes so plan check
corrections are simple and owners understand what they’re getting ahead of time
Without reservation I have, and continue to, recommend MWA Architects to owners and
developers in need of a talented, resourceful and professional architectural firm in the
greater Truckee and North Lake Tahoe area.
-- Acumen Engineering Company
In all cases, I did not hesitate to work with the firm because:
• Kurt and Kristi manage projects effectively
• Deadlines and expectations are known ahead of time, no last minute crisis
• All of the team members have a say in the design effort
• The architects know the applicable building and development codes so plan check
corrections are simple and owners understand what they’re getting ahead of time
Without reservation I have, and continue to, recommend MWA Architects to owners and
developers in need of a talented, resourceful and professional architectural firm in the
greater Truckee and North Lake Tahoe area.
Over the last twelve years Kurt Reinkens of MWA has designed two personal residences for us. As a measure of our appreciation for his creativity and skill, we have just recently asked him to design a third. In the first two instances our design goals were distinctly different one from the other, yet in each instance he was able to capture the essence of the look and feel we wanted, producing a design that pleased us immensely. His interest in his craft seems to be insatiable. This is a man who is following his passion!
He is a delight to work with, responsive and enormously talented. We recommend him to you with great enthusiasm and without reservation.
-- Annie & Richard Bennett
He is a delight to work with, responsive and enormously talented. We recommend him to you with great enthusiasm and without reservation.
BECx has successfully worked with MWA on several projects and I would like to stress the level of professionalism MWA portrays during all aspects of the design and construction process. With a no surprises approach, the projects were designed and constructed with the utmost care for the clients concerns, budget, and schedule while maintaining their very creative and energy efficient design intact. MWA Architects, Inc. is your architecture firm of choice.
-- Bender Engineering + Commissioning, Inc.
In the design phase, you clearly captured our objectives in both floor plan and aesthetics and realized them in the structure. And you did this within the difficult constraints placed on lakefront houses by TRPA. Many people comment that our house is the most aesthetically pleasing property on Edgewater. It fits into the environment gracefully and is not overbearing.
Visitors are particularly impressed with the vista upon entering the house, and the comfort of the great room. In addition, there are multiple spacious private areas including the flex room with its own sitting area and access to the outside and the entire lower floor with its family room and two bedrooms including baths and view of the lake.
In summary, it's a job well done, we’re very pleased with your design of the house, and MWA was a pleasure to work with!! And we'd use you again without hesitation.
-- Bob Peters
Visitors are particularly impressed with the vista upon entering the house, and the comfort of the great room. In addition, there are multiple spacious private areas including the flex room with its own sitting area and access to the outside and the entire lower floor with its family room and two bedrooms including baths and view of the lake.
In summary, it's a job well done, we’re very pleased with your design of the house, and MWA was a pleasure to work with!! And we'd use you again without hesitation.
My wife and I hired Kurt Reinkens of MWA in 2005 after we purchased land to build a vacation home in the Lake Tahoe resort community of Lahontan. MWA was and still is, in our estimation, the top architectural firm in the Tahoe area, and our experience with MWA over the course of the design and construction of our home exceeded even our high expectations.
MWA is intimately familiar with the design standards in the area in general and in Lahontan in particular. It is clear that Lahontan's Design Review Board (LDRB) has developed a high degree of familiarity and trust with MWA, and this trust was integral to what ended up being a relatively smooth and hassle-free process with the LDRB. MWA was able to anticipate the needs of the LDRB and, in the few occasions were design modifications were recommended, come up with creative solutions that met those recommendations efficiently and cost-effectively.
MWA is also quite good with builders. Unlike some architects who design imaginary buildings that are extremely difficult or expensive to construct, MWAs designs, while innovative and always interesting, are practical and buildable. MWA was very involved with my builder throughout the construction process and worked to address his issues and questions in a timely manner.
Finally, the architectural aspects of our recently completed home are amazing. It seems that we notice new architectural features to the structure every time we visit our home. We couldn't be happier with the architecture of the structure, how the rooms and spaces are in synch with one another, how the house relates to the natural environment, and the window placements and rooflines, just to name a few aspects that stand out.
I would recommend MWA to anyone for these reasons. Our experience was overwhelmingly positive.
-- Caine Moss
MWA is intimately familiar with the design standards in the area in general and in Lahontan in particular. It is clear that Lahontan's Design Review Board (LDRB) has developed a high degree of familiarity and trust with MWA, and this trust was integral to what ended up being a relatively smooth and hassle-free process with the LDRB. MWA was able to anticipate the needs of the LDRB and, in the few occasions were design modifications were recommended, come up with creative solutions that met those recommendations efficiently and cost-effectively.
MWA is also quite good with builders. Unlike some architects who design imaginary buildings that are extremely difficult or expensive to construct, MWAs designs, while innovative and always interesting, are practical and buildable. MWA was very involved with my builder throughout the construction process and worked to address his issues and questions in a timely manner.
Finally, the architectural aspects of our recently completed home are amazing. It seems that we notice new architectural features to the structure every time we visit our home. We couldn't be happier with the architecture of the structure, how the rooms and spaces are in synch with one another, how the house relates to the natural environment, and the window placements and rooflines, just to name a few aspects that stand out.
I would recommend MWA to anyone for these reasons. Our experience was overwhelmingly positive.
The purpose of this letter is to introduce Kurt Reinkens and his firm MWA Architects and share our working experience with this firm
I am certain that you are well aware that the success of a project often depends on the selection of the team--especially with some of the special projects that we have the pleasure of working on in this community. A solid group of professionals who communicate well and work seamlessly can make all the difference in achieving the owner’s goals in design, time and budget.
In 2008 our firm had the pleasure of working with MWA Architecture and Engineering on a high end project in the new Martis Camp development in Truckee, California.
Our experience working with MWA and Kurt Reinkens was terrific. He and his team are not only one of the most talented and respected architecture firms in the Lake Tahoe area, they have a wonderful spirit, fresh attitude and attention to detail that stands out. All of which makes working with them enjoyable for everyone involved.
-- Catherine Macfee Interior Design
I am certain that you are well aware that the success of a project often depends on the selection of the team--especially with some of the special projects that we have the pleasure of working on in this community. A solid group of professionals who communicate well and work seamlessly can make all the difference in achieving the owner’s goals in design, time and budget.
In 2008 our firm had the pleasure of working with MWA Architecture and Engineering on a high end project in the new Martis Camp development in Truckee, California.
Our experience working with MWA and Kurt Reinkens was terrific. He and his team are not only one of the most talented and respected architecture firms in the Lake Tahoe area, they have a wonderful spirit, fresh attitude and attention to detail that stands out. All of which makes working with them enjoyable for everyone involved.
We built a home in the Lahontan Community in 2002-2003 that was designed by Kurt. We had already experienced a home designed by Kurt in Tahoe Donner that we had purchased earlier. Our satisfaction with the Tahoe Donner home was the reason we went to MWA for the Lahontan design. Having had some experience living in the Truckee area, we had some specific needs that we wished to be addressed for the Lahontan design. We articulated these needs in the form of a four page memorandum that we handed to Kurt when we sat down to discuss the project. Kurt took us to some completed homes that he had designed to help us visualize some ideas.
A couple of months later we were told that the draft plans were completed and ready for our review. We were delighted when we found that Kurt had found a way to address all of our needs. From our point of view the design was perfect. Moreover, Kurt had done this while taking maximum advantage of the attributes of the building site: the view of Lookout Mountain, the beautiful meadow and wildlife refuge behind the house and the lovely grove of Aspen trees on the property. We have lived in the home for 4 years and continue to be delighted with the design.
We found working with MWA to be easy and efficient. The communications were excellent every step of the way. Email was used to facilitate communications as we lived in the Bay area while the home was being built.
Overall, we found Kurt and MWA to be very responsive to our needs and very efficient to work with. The project was completed on budget and the architectural design costs were very reasonable.
-- Charlotte and George Hawley
A couple of months later we were told that the draft plans were completed and ready for our review. We were delighted when we found that Kurt had found a way to address all of our needs. From our point of view the design was perfect. Moreover, Kurt had done this while taking maximum advantage of the attributes of the building site: the view of Lookout Mountain, the beautiful meadow and wildlife refuge behind the house and the lovely grove of Aspen trees on the property. We have lived in the home for 4 years and continue to be delighted with the design.
We found working with MWA to be easy and efficient. The communications were excellent every step of the way. Email was used to facilitate communications as we lived in the Bay area while the home was being built.
Overall, we found Kurt and MWA to be very responsive to our needs and very efficient to work with. The project was completed on budget and the architectural design costs were very reasonable.
Anna and I wanted to tell once again how thrilled we are with your design of our home to be constructed in Tahoe Donner.
As builders of custom homes we have very high standards when designing our homes. especially one for our family to live in. We gave you an assignment that required you to meet my expectations from a constructability stand point and to express Anna’s functional and aesthetic desires. From my perspective as a builder you hit a homerun designing a home that will not only be cost effective to construct, and functional, but exceeded all of our design expectations. This home will truly be unique and very beautiful when constructed.
You listened to our needs and desires and gave us a home that takes full advantage of our entire 270 ° of views while designing it for our large family to feel at home in.
Please feel free to share this with anyone who needs convincing that you will give them everything they want and expect from an architect and then will exceed their expectations. It has been our pleasure working with you and we wish you the best of luck
-- Daniel Raber
As builders of custom homes we have very high standards when designing our homes. especially one for our family to live in. We gave you an assignment that required you to meet my expectations from a constructability stand point and to express Anna’s functional and aesthetic desires. From my perspective as a builder you hit a homerun designing a home that will not only be cost effective to construct, and functional, but exceeded all of our design expectations. This home will truly be unique and very beautiful when constructed.
You listened to our needs and desires and gave us a home that takes full advantage of our entire 270 ° of views while designing it for our large family to feel at home in.
Please feel free to share this with anyone who needs convincing that you will give them everything they want and expect from an architect and then will exceed their expectations. It has been our pleasure working with you and we wish you the best of luck
It has been our pleasure over the lost nine years to have an ongoing working relationship with Kurt Reinkens. He was extremely helpful in the process of subdividing and developing our property in Trucker. His skill as an architect and his commitment to creating a symbiotic relationship between the environment and his architecture are well known. His real mastery becomes apparent in designing the structure to optimize the surrounding landscape.
He continues to serve as advisor for architectural review in the development of further home sites in our sub-division. We would highly recommend him both personally and professionally.
-- Dr. & Mrs. R. Scott Foster
He continues to serve as advisor for architectural review in the development of further home sites in our sub-division. We would highly recommend him both personally and professionally.
I would like to highly recommend Kristi Thompson for Architectural and Engineering services along with her associates at MWA. When we hired Kristi we were looking for a professional who was thorough, thoughtful and was interested in providing the home we wanted which was more European Old World than the traditional Tahoe style of home. Kristi listened and responded to our desires and we ended up with a home that exceeded our expectations. She first did research to be sure we were aligned on the look and feel we wanted providing images of existing homes and buildings in the Alps for our consideration. After many meetings and lots of back and forth we came up with a design that we loved that blended old world and mountain architecture. Kristi studied the lot considering the slope, sun angle, views and our desire for privacy and came up with an ideal site for the home. As the design developed there was a high degree of interaction ensuring our ideas of which we had many were incorporated. Overall we were very pleased with the result. Others seem to have liked it also as it won the Peoples Choice Award at the Martis Camp Architectural Show in 2008.
-- Ed and Betsy Richardson
Maria and I want to thank you for the exemplary design and architecture of our new home in Martis Camp. We love it! It has everything we asked for and more, and we feel you really captured our vision of a timeless “Old World Europe Meets Tahoe” mountain home. All the views have been beautifully framed with the view of Look Out Mountain through the front entry being particularly spectacular. The outdoor living space is abundant and functional, just as we had requested. And the bonus wine cellar off the butler's pantry is as useful and handsome as it is ingenious; our guests are amazed by your intelligent use of space.
I will say that if we had to do it over again we would contract for the full package, having every cabinet detail, towel bar, TP holder, and wall art location planned ahead of time, as well as elevations drawn for each and every room. With the benefit of hindsight we now realize that it's critical to have all these details included in a “full set” before construction begins as it is the only way to ensure, for example, that all the cabinets end towel bars we want will fit perfectly on the wall space provided and in the location most desired. Relying on an interior or cabinet designer for these details is just too late in the process, and in the end I doubt we saved any money. For any future clients wondering, we highly recommend they go the Full Monty!
Thank you again for a great job. We will enjoy our Martis Camp home for many years to come.
-- Eric and Maria Clothier
I will say that if we had to do it over again we would contract for the full package, having every cabinet detail, towel bar, TP holder, and wall art location planned ahead of time, as well as elevations drawn for each and every room. With the benefit of hindsight we now realize that it's critical to have all these details included in a “full set” before construction begins as it is the only way to ensure, for example, that all the cabinets end towel bars we want will fit perfectly on the wall space provided and in the location most desired. Relying on an interior or cabinet designer for these details is just too late in the process, and in the end I doubt we saved any money. For any future clients wondering, we highly recommend they go the Full Monty!
Thank you again for a great job. We will enjoy our Martis Camp home for many years to come.
After having known and worked with the managing principals and various staff of MWA for nearly twenty years, it is with great pleasure that I recommend this integrious and creative firm.
Our company has been a regional leader in the context of commercial contracting since 1981, and during the course our tenure we have worked with MWA on several commercial projects. Every project has been completed on time and on budget as a result of their collaborative approach, a willingness to accept responsibility and their ability to communicate relationally.
MWA provides an honest and intelligent approach. They are reliable, imaginative and flexible.
I highly recommend MWA to you without reservation.
-- Geney/Gassiot, Inc
Our company has been a regional leader in the context of commercial contracting since 1981, and during the course our tenure we have worked with MWA on several commercial projects. Every project has been completed on time and on budget as a result of their collaborative approach, a willingness to accept responsibility and their ability to communicate relationally.
MWA provides an honest and intelligent approach. They are reliable, imaginative and flexible.
I highly recommend MWA to you without reservation.
Kurt Reinkens and MWA designed my commercial building in downtown truckee after an explosion destroyed the historic building. Kurt delivered a building that fit nicely in old downtown truckee and the construction project came in on time and on budget. It does not get any better than that.
I was legal counsel to the design review committee of the Lahontan subdivision in Truckee during its first five years and as such saw all of the projects that came before the committee for review and approval. Kurt Reinken’s projects, and there were many, were nothing less than spectacular in design. Kurt is very bright and creative and I highly recommend him. Jim Porter, development attorney
-- James Porter
I was legal counsel to the design review committee of the Lahontan subdivision in Truckee during its first five years and as such saw all of the projects that came before the committee for review and approval. Kurt Reinken’s projects, and there were many, were nothing less than spectacular in design. Kurt is very bright and creative and I highly recommend him. Jim Porter, development attorney
It is my pleasure to commend Kurt Reinkens of MWA Associates/Architects to you. Our association with Kurt began in the spring of 2004. We had purchased a lot at Northstar in February, and soon after began the daunting task of finding both an architect and a builder. The search was especially stressful because it was time-sensitive....we were hoping to get plans drawn up and approved prior to the October 15th cutoff date for groundbreaking that year.
We interviewed a half-dozen architects and builders. Kurt was the clear choice of an architect in my mind. During our interview with hint, he asked all the “right” questions and asked them in such a way that we began to think creatively about all the possibilities for our new home. He was concise and to the point, being mindful of our time as we were of his. The decision was positively reinforced when we settled on a builder that Kurt personally recommended to us.
Since we were operating under some serious time constraints, Kurt worked with us to formulate a contract that coupled Kurt’s creativity and design ideas with the expertise of the MWA draftsmen/associates. Kurt gathered some data from us re: our “dream” house…. ideas ranging from the number of bedrooms we wanted to how we envisioned the traffic flow from room to room. Kurt visited our lot, took our “dream ideas” and quickly worked up a draft. With visuals in hand, it was relatively easy to pinpoint the aspects of the proposal that we liked and didn’t like. Kurt was open-minded and professional throughout this process....discussing different ways to accomplish some of our ideas.
We had asked Kurt to work quickly and within a budget and he was good to his word on both fronts. Once the creative pieces were in place (the quality that we most wanted to capture from Kurt), the draft was turned over to Kurt’s associates for the detail work. Plans were formulated in a timely manner and Kurt and his associates maintained ongoing communication with us as we worked through the minutia.
Since we had never designed or built a house before, it was difficult to ‘visualize’ the three- dimensional product. Kurt and his associates were responsive to our inquiries every step of the way. Kurt listened to questions or concerns, and offered an opinion – a trait we very much appreciated since he was the expert and we were first-timers. Sometimes we were swayed to Kurt’s opinion, sometimes he was swayed to ours, and sometimes - through discussion — we got to a different solution all together — a better solution because we all maintained open minds and open communication.
Throughout the 15 months of house construction, Kurt and his associates were available for consultation with the builder, as needed. Access to the right people, open communication, and mutual respect were all critical to the timely, professional construction of our home.
Kurt’s vision was translated into reality with our builder’s craftsmanship and building expertise and we are delighted with all aspects of the finished product.
-- Jan Coe
We interviewed a half-dozen architects and builders. Kurt was the clear choice of an architect in my mind. During our interview with hint, he asked all the “right” questions and asked them in such a way that we began to think creatively about all the possibilities for our new home. He was concise and to the point, being mindful of our time as we were of his. The decision was positively reinforced when we settled on a builder that Kurt personally recommended to us.
Since we were operating under some serious time constraints, Kurt worked with us to formulate a contract that coupled Kurt’s creativity and design ideas with the expertise of the MWA draftsmen/associates. Kurt gathered some data from us re: our “dream” house…. ideas ranging from the number of bedrooms we wanted to how we envisioned the traffic flow from room to room. Kurt visited our lot, took our “dream ideas” and quickly worked up a draft. With visuals in hand, it was relatively easy to pinpoint the aspects of the proposal that we liked and didn’t like. Kurt was open-minded and professional throughout this process....discussing different ways to accomplish some of our ideas.
We had asked Kurt to work quickly and within a budget and he was good to his word on both fronts. Once the creative pieces were in place (the quality that we most wanted to capture from Kurt), the draft was turned over to Kurt’s associates for the detail work. Plans were formulated in a timely manner and Kurt and his associates maintained ongoing communication with us as we worked through the minutia.
Since we had never designed or built a house before, it was difficult to ‘visualize’ the three- dimensional product. Kurt and his associates were responsive to our inquiries every step of the way. Kurt listened to questions or concerns, and offered an opinion – a trait we very much appreciated since he was the expert and we were first-timers. Sometimes we were swayed to Kurt’s opinion, sometimes he was swayed to ours, and sometimes - through discussion — we got to a different solution all together — a better solution because we all maintained open minds and open communication.
Throughout the 15 months of house construction, Kurt and his associates were available for consultation with the builder, as needed. Access to the right people, open communication, and mutual respect were all critical to the timely, professional construction of our home.
Kurt’s vision was translated into reality with our builder’s craftsmanship and building expertise and we are delighted with all aspects of the finished product.
It is with great pleasure that I recommend you for your wonderful skills as a designer, architect, and job supervisor. When I hired MWA as my architectural and design firm for my residential remodel in Nevada City, California, I couldn’t believe how efficient your company was in both guiding the project to a very quick permitting process, but more importantly a superb design concept. Working with you and Kurt Reinkens was a total gift for me. First of all, our many meetings were so efficiently handled from both the detail of setting the agendas, to your suggestions, notes, photos, and summaries of the sessions by the next day. Your talents and skillsets really kept the design process right on track! Also, I was amazed at your computer and internet shopping skills regarding all of the many choices such as Fergusons lighting, appliances, Kitchen and bath fixtures, granite choices, etc. In every case you made my shopping (and I really don’t like to shop much) efficient and rewarding. You not only designed our work flow charts accurately but you made the difference in
keeping us stress free on the timeline you created for the job. What a pleasure working with a very smart and together professional!
Love to you, and thanks for truly making my mega remodel come out so beautifully.
-- Jeff Leiter
keeping us stress free on the timeline you created for the job. What a pleasure working with a very smart and together professional!
Love to you, and thanks for truly making my mega remodel come out so beautifully.
I would highly recommend MWA Architects to any potential new home owner or contractor. We chose MWA to design our full-time Truckee residence after considering several other architectural firms. MWA stood out as being one of the most creative and collaborative firms to work with, both important considerations for us.
Working with Kurt Reinkens and Kristi Thompson was a pleasure. MWA started out trying to understand how we wanted to interact in our home environment, and designed our home around the way that we wanted to live. Integrating the final design with our lifestyle with the natural environment around our property, the end result was truly our dream home.
-- John & Dawn Evans
Working with Kurt Reinkens and Kristi Thompson was a pleasure. MWA started out trying to understand how we wanted to interact in our home environment, and designed our home around the way that we wanted to live. Integrating the final design with our lifestyle with the natural environment around our property, the end result was truly our dream home.
When we decided to build on our lot at Lahontan we wondered how to choose the best architect for our needs and desires. We decided to interview and pay three architects for preliminary designs, designs based on what we stated we wanted. All three architects were personally recommended and came with excellent references.
After meeting with Kurt Reinken and seeing his plans and hearing his ideas, we knew he was the person to design our house. He incorporated our every wish into his design. He heard everything we said. He created excitement for us.
Working with Kurt has been a pleasure. He is responsive, always available for meetings, willing to accommodate changes and look into new ways of solving problems. He has a sense of humor. He conveys a sense of integrity in his work….that it be honest to the Tahoe-Truckee Sierra setting and sensitive to that environment.
-- John & Glennis Jones
After meeting with Kurt Reinken and seeing his plans and hearing his ideas, we knew he was the person to design our house. He incorporated our every wish into his design. He heard everything we said. He created excitement for us.
Working with Kurt has been a pleasure. He is responsive, always available for meetings, willing to accommodate changes and look into new ways of solving problems. He has a sense of humor. He conveys a sense of integrity in his work….that it be honest to the Tahoe-Truckee Sierra setting and sensitive to that environment.
Kurt Reinkens designed our Truckee home in 2005. It is really a work of art, as much as it is a house. We continue to appreciate its many design features, and the compliments from visitors have never stopped to this day. The home is incredibly comfortable to live in. It is our mountain retreat, and we cherish the time we spend there.
The success of our project with Kurt began in the design programming stage. We provided him with a design philosophy comprising 6 elements: (1 ) Rustically Elegant, (2) Timelessness of Design, (3) Native to Place, (4) Uplifting to the Spirit, (S) Respect for Materials, and (6) Good Design More Important than Large Spaces. Our home's design embodies every one of these elements. Kurt took words on paper and made them into a physical reality.
Kurt worked very well with us throughout the iterative design process, as we went back and forth on alternatives for various parts of the house and as we finalized decisions right up to the end of the design phase. Some architects have a tendency to take pride in ownership of their design to the point that they resist changes to their work. That was not the case with Kurt. In Tact on several occasions, Kurt counseled junior architects on the project to listen to the clients' preferences and to be open to making design changes. Consequently, we felt very good about our working relationship with Kurt during this important phase of the project.
We would also like to compliment Kurt for his more subtle architectural skills, beginning with his understanding of light and its impact on the home. He talked about this point in early meetings, but we truly appreciated it after living in the home. Accordingly, he both positioned the house on the lot and designed rooms with light as a major consideration. He even identified which windows to have screens on and which to not have screens on, out of consideration for views out of the home. His design also carefully accounted for shedding of snow. In addition, we found Kurt to be very knowledgeable and experienced with respect to design details and construction materials.
Finally, Kurt worked extremely well with our contractor and interior designer during the construction phase. It was definitely a team project, and everyone involved felt great about working together when it was over. Designing and building a home is not easy, particularly when the owners are working full time. Therefore, the architect, interior designer, and builder are crucial to the effort. We couldn't be more happy than with those who worked on our project.
-- John and Kathy Glaub
The success of our project with Kurt began in the design programming stage. We provided him with a design philosophy comprising 6 elements: (1 ) Rustically Elegant, (2) Timelessness of Design, (3) Native to Place, (4) Uplifting to the Spirit, (S) Respect for Materials, and (6) Good Design More Important than Large Spaces. Our home's design embodies every one of these elements. Kurt took words on paper and made them into a physical reality.
Kurt worked very well with us throughout the iterative design process, as we went back and forth on alternatives for various parts of the house and as we finalized decisions right up to the end of the design phase. Some architects have a tendency to take pride in ownership of their design to the point that they resist changes to their work. That was not the case with Kurt. In Tact on several occasions, Kurt counseled junior architects on the project to listen to the clients' preferences and to be open to making design changes. Consequently, we felt very good about our working relationship with Kurt during this important phase of the project.
We would also like to compliment Kurt for his more subtle architectural skills, beginning with his understanding of light and its impact on the home. He talked about this point in early meetings, but we truly appreciated it after living in the home. Accordingly, he both positioned the house on the lot and designed rooms with light as a major consideration. He even identified which windows to have screens on and which to not have screens on, out of consideration for views out of the home. His design also carefully accounted for shedding of snow. In addition, we found Kurt to be very knowledgeable and experienced with respect to design details and construction materials.
Finally, Kurt worked extremely well with our contractor and interior designer during the construction phase. It was definitely a team project, and everyone involved felt great about working together when it was over. Designing and building a home is not easy, particularly when the owners are working full time. Therefore, the architect, interior designer, and builder are crucial to the effort. We couldn't be more happy than with those who worked on our project.
In late 2003, I sent Kurt Reinkens, a senior partner at MWA, a 3-page letter describing the features that I wanted in a house on a lot in Northstar. Kurt and his team took the letter and went to the lot (numerous times) and designed a house that not only met but greatly exceeded my expectations.
There were already houses on each side so Kurt and his team designed my home so that I had total privacy even with 72 windows! I didn’t need a single blind in any room---l did put a few but they were not necessary for privacy.
No house can be done without modifications along the way. Kurt and I and the builder Jeff Cotton did these smoothly and with total cooperation among all three parties.
In addition, Kurt continued to always look for ways to make the design better. His unique placement and design of windows not only captured all the views but as I mentioned earlier kept the privacy.
I highly recommend Kurt and his firm to do any architectural project and I would use them again.
-- John Atterbury
There were already houses on each side so Kurt and his team designed my home so that I had total privacy even with 72 windows! I didn’t need a single blind in any room---l did put a few but they were not necessary for privacy.
No house can be done without modifications along the way. Kurt and I and the builder Jeff Cotton did these smoothly and with total cooperation among all three parties.
In addition, Kurt continued to always look for ways to make the design better. His unique placement and design of windows not only captured all the views but as I mentioned earlier kept the privacy.
I highly recommend Kurt and his firm to do any architectural project and I would use them again.
I have worked with MWA Architects on a number of projects over the years both as a member of the consultant team and as the Developer. My experience working with them in both capacities has provided me a comprehensive perspective of their outstanding knowledge, capabilities and service. MWA has extensive project experience in the local environment working with the applicable jurisdictions. In addition they utilize other highly qualified professionals in assembling their project teams. While these attributes clearly provide their clients an excellent value MWA also prides themselves on producing quality projects. MWA Architects have continually demonstrated exceptional ability in navigating projects successfully though all the planning, design, approvals and construction processes. Retaining MWA as the prime consultant for pursuing a development project in the Truckee region is unquestionably a positive choice.
-- John S. Black Consulting
I have had the opportunity to work with Kristi Thompson and her team at MWA on both new construction and remodel projects and have greatly enjoyed the collaboration, I am always excited when new projects designed by MWA come across my desk because I know the end result will always be beautiful and thoughtfully designed. They do a great job of listening to the homeowner's wishes and work to develop a design and that fits their individual wants and needs for their new home. Each project that we've worked on together has had a clear vision and an insightful design. As a result, it is very easy for me, as an interior designer, to continue working with the client to make sure that the interiors are cohesive with the architecture, I also appreciate how easy it is to work with Kristi and her team during the constriction process if questions arise. I have learned a lot from them and hope to continue working together in the future.
-- Katherine Elkins Design Ltd.
Kristi and MWA designed a beautiful "mountain modern" home for us. She listened to our needs and delivered a floor plan an home style that matched what we were envisioning. With high ceilings, a very efficient use of space, and indoor/outdoor living, we are very happy with the design. The process was also very painful on our end and Kristi's team was professional and helpful throughout the project. She is very detail oriented and addressed our questions thoroughly. We are happy we went with MWA for our project!
-- Laura
I just wanted to tell you how much Roz and I love the home you designed for us at Northstar. This was a project we’ve been thinking about for a very long time, and the results -- 18 months after completion -- are everything we could have hoped for.
As you know, we bought the Big Springs lot in 1995, at the first auction of lots for Northstar homeowners. We had owned a house at Northstar since 1989, and planned to build the “dream house” as an important part of our eventual retirement plan. We were not ready to build at that time, but we often visited the lot to look at what the future might bring. On one of those visits, we happened to run into you -- you were then designing a home a few doors away. You asked us to keep you in mind when we were ready to start our project. We are so glad we ran into you that day.
The lot we purchased was one of the choice view lots at the end of the Grouse Ridge cul-de-sac, looking out at the western sunsets above Castle Peak. It had terrific view exposure, but also had major exposure to the weather. In the Summer of 2004, we were ready to move ahead. We interviewed several local architects. You stood out immediately. You had wonderful ideas on the design for the house. You also had a terrific practical sense for the site -- how to use overhangs to address the weather concerns with the winds and snow dumps; how the views would play out depending on exactly where we sited the house; and where to place large windows for maximum dramatic effect without bathing the interior in constant sunlight. As our contractor, Jeff Cotton, later said, “Kurt sees though walls and can visualize the sight line 20 or 30 feet in the air while standing at ground level.”
As we went through the planning process with you, we couldn’t have been more pleased. It really was effortless on our part. You listened to what we wanted, showed us we could do even more than that and came up with a beautiful plan. Many homes in Big Springs are enormous. We told you we did not want a gigantic house, and you designed a spectacular one within our size requirements. At the same time it had everything we wanted, especially a dramatic great room with stone columns, huge wood beams and beautiful lighting, and a master bedroom suite on the top floor with a 270-degree view of the mountains from Castle Peak to Mt. Rose, the treetops and the sunsets and sunrises (one of our guests described it as “like living in a tree
house”).
We actually found the process of the design to be an enormous amount of fun -- something which is very unusual when considering the typical stress involved in the largest new construction project we’ll ever undertake. It was also right on time. We wanted to have the design completed and approved by the County by early Spring so we could start construction as soon as the snows melted and you did just that.
When we were nearing design completion, we asked for your recommendation for builders. You gave us a couple of suggestions, we interviewed them, and then picked Jeff Cotton, who you have worked with for years (including on your office). We couldn’t have done better. Jeff is a gem, and we cannot thank you enough for your recommendation. Between the two of you, no problem could not be solved. You both had excellent ideas on how to turn the design plan into a construction reality. There were no surprises, and again a flawless process.
The house was completed in May 2006. We’ve now lived in it for it for 18 months. You always wonder when doing a project like this what you’ll say after the fact you wished you’d done differently. But I can’t think of anything. We enjoy being in the house every time we’re there. From the grand design to the smallest practical detail -- from the visual impact of the stonework and sweeping views from the living room to the dog shower on the deck -- we wouldn’t change a thing.
Thank you so much for turning our dream into a reality. We could not be more pleased.
-- Michael Plishner
As you know, we bought the Big Springs lot in 1995, at the first auction of lots for Northstar homeowners. We had owned a house at Northstar since 1989, and planned to build the “dream house” as an important part of our eventual retirement plan. We were not ready to build at that time, but we often visited the lot to look at what the future might bring. On one of those visits, we happened to run into you -- you were then designing a home a few doors away. You asked us to keep you in mind when we were ready to start our project. We are so glad we ran into you that day.
The lot we purchased was one of the choice view lots at the end of the Grouse Ridge cul-de-sac, looking out at the western sunsets above Castle Peak. It had terrific view exposure, but also had major exposure to the weather. In the Summer of 2004, we were ready to move ahead. We interviewed several local architects. You stood out immediately. You had wonderful ideas on the design for the house. You also had a terrific practical sense for the site -- how to use overhangs to address the weather concerns with the winds and snow dumps; how the views would play out depending on exactly where we sited the house; and where to place large windows for maximum dramatic effect without bathing the interior in constant sunlight. As our contractor, Jeff Cotton, later said, “Kurt sees though walls and can visualize the sight line 20 or 30 feet in the air while standing at ground level.”
As we went through the planning process with you, we couldn’t have been more pleased. It really was effortless on our part. You listened to what we wanted, showed us we could do even more than that and came up with a beautiful plan. Many homes in Big Springs are enormous. We told you we did not want a gigantic house, and you designed a spectacular one within our size requirements. At the same time it had everything we wanted, especially a dramatic great room with stone columns, huge wood beams and beautiful lighting, and a master bedroom suite on the top floor with a 270-degree view of the mountains from Castle Peak to Mt. Rose, the treetops and the sunsets and sunrises (one of our guests described it as “like living in a tree
house”).
We actually found the process of the design to be an enormous amount of fun -- something which is very unusual when considering the typical stress involved in the largest new construction project we’ll ever undertake. It was also right on time. We wanted to have the design completed and approved by the County by early Spring so we could start construction as soon as the snows melted and you did just that.
When we were nearing design completion, we asked for your recommendation for builders. You gave us a couple of suggestions, we interviewed them, and then picked Jeff Cotton, who you have worked with for years (including on your office). We couldn’t have done better. Jeff is a gem, and we cannot thank you enough for your recommendation. Between the two of you, no problem could not be solved. You both had excellent ideas on how to turn the design plan into a construction reality. There were no surprises, and again a flawless process.
The house was completed in May 2006. We’ve now lived in it for it for 18 months. You always wonder when doing a project like this what you’ll say after the fact you wished you’d done differently. But I can’t think of anything. We enjoy being in the house every time we’re there. From the grand design to the smallest practical detail -- from the visual impact of the stonework and sweeping views from the living room to the dog shower on the deck -- we wouldn’t change a thing.
Thank you so much for turning our dream into a reality. We could not be more pleased.
I've been remiss in not sending this note to you sooner. My office and family duties have been intense. That said, I am so please to take this time to reflect on my experiences working with you and your incredible team at MWA. Of course, you've heard me say a million times -- it's all about the attention to detail. That held true for the architecture for our home without a doubt. When it comes to interior design though...it's where we actually do our LIVING! Your skills in this area were exemplary for a number of reasons:
1) You worked so well with me -- a particularly detail oriented person -- with great aplomb. You composure, ideas, flare, responsiveness and follow-up were at the top of your profession;
2) Importantly, your record keeping, budget-tracking and related skills were essential to getting our home completed without a hitch;
3) There were no "stress point"! You possess and nearly unique ability to manage well under the pressure of not only me...but the contractor, vendors, journeymen and so many others that spoke volumes about your ability to DEAL WITH ALL SPORTS OF PERSONALITIES. There were a few of those -- huh?
My overarching comment about working with you Morgan was that, in the end, we created a legacy project TOGETHER. We are so pleased with our home in Tahoe and it would not have been the same if we hadn't worked with you.
-- Myers Development Company
1) You worked so well with me -- a particularly detail oriented person -- with great aplomb. You composure, ideas, flare, responsiveness and follow-up were at the top of your profession;
2) Importantly, your record keeping, budget-tracking and related skills were essential to getting our home completed without a hitch;
3) There were no "stress point"! You possess and nearly unique ability to manage well under the pressure of not only me...but the contractor, vendors, journeymen and so many others that spoke volumes about your ability to DEAL WITH ALL SPORTS OF PERSONALITIES. There were a few of those -- huh?
My overarching comment about working with you Morgan was that, in the end, we created a legacy project TOGETHER. We are so pleased with our home in Tahoe and it would not have been the same if we hadn't worked with you.
Mat and I want to express our thanks for designing such an imaginative, functional and beautiful place for us to live. The process of’ building a home from the ground up can he very challenging, and your help guiding us through the process was invaluable. You lived up to all of our expectations, and surpassed them.
We knew we were in good hands when you got excited about the images we had gathered depicting the style of architecture and cosmetic finishes that we liked. The interactive design process, which began with basic bubble drawings and proceeded through detailed finishes, was always professional, educational and respectful. And the progress was always well documented by Brian Holm, one of your staff architects, who put in a tremendous amount of work on many of the design elements and most of the details. If we were unfamiliar with materials you suggested, you would take us on field trips to show us how those finishes look and feel in a house. In the end, we provided you the basic skeleton of what we wanted; you gave us the realization of our dream home.
We also enjoyed the collaborative spirit that existed between you, our contractor, our designer and us. The team was cohesive, problem solving oriented, and always put our needs at the top of the list, whether it was an issue regarding functional design or limited resources.
Our home is a clear reflection of us . . . you were able to interpret our needs, grasp our desires, and mix in your sense of design and architecture, to produce a place of pure beauty and functionality.
We are happy to recommend your services and talents to others.
-- Nancy and Max Gisko
We knew we were in good hands when you got excited about the images we had gathered depicting the style of architecture and cosmetic finishes that we liked. The interactive design process, which began with basic bubble drawings and proceeded through detailed finishes, was always professional, educational and respectful. And the progress was always well documented by Brian Holm, one of your staff architects, who put in a tremendous amount of work on many of the design elements and most of the details. If we were unfamiliar with materials you suggested, you would take us on field trips to show us how those finishes look and feel in a house. In the end, we provided you the basic skeleton of what we wanted; you gave us the realization of our dream home.
We also enjoyed the collaborative spirit that existed between you, our contractor, our designer and us. The team was cohesive, problem solving oriented, and always put our needs at the top of the list, whether it was an issue regarding functional design or limited resources.
Our home is a clear reflection of us . . . you were able to interpret our needs, grasp our desires, and mix in your sense of design and architecture, to produce a place of pure beauty and functionality.
We are happy to recommend your services and talents to others.
I have know Kurt Reinkens since approximately 1986. He has always been one of the most engaging people and creative architects in Truckee. He works hard for the youth and people of Truckee.
-- Norwegian Wood Construction Company
I would be pleased to be a reference for MWA. You have designed two houses that I have been involved with.
The first on lot 137 in Lahontan was a custom house for my wife and me. This house was designed for our needs and to meet the stringent requirements of the Lahontan Design Guidelines. We achieved our program goals, Lahontan Design Review Approval, and a building permit. We sold the lot, building plans and the building permit to a speculative developer who built the house with some modifications.
Last year we purchased a house which was built on spec by a developer. MWA designed that house. We were not “in the market” for a house, but happened to walk through an open house. We fell in love with your design. The house was well sited for views and privacy, very bright inside (an unusual situation in Lahontan), and fit our life style perfectly. Twenty three days later we owned this house. My wife and I are moving to this house and Truckee full time as of November 1st.
I would strongly recommend MWA to anyone designing a house in the Truckee/Tahoe area.
-- Rick Stephens
The first on lot 137 in Lahontan was a custom house for my wife and me. This house was designed for our needs and to meet the stringent requirements of the Lahontan Design Guidelines. We achieved our program goals, Lahontan Design Review Approval, and a building permit. We sold the lot, building plans and the building permit to a speculative developer who built the house with some modifications.
Last year we purchased a house which was built on spec by a developer. MWA designed that house. We were not “in the market” for a house, but happened to walk through an open house. We fell in love with your design. The house was well sited for views and privacy, very bright inside (an unusual situation in Lahontan), and fit our life style perfectly. Twenty three days later we owned this house. My wife and I are moving to this house and Truckee full time as of November 1st.
I would strongly recommend MWA to anyone designing a house in the Truckee/Tahoe area.
At Spirit Interior Design, we have had the pleasure on numerous occasions to work with Kurt Reinkens and the team at MWA, Inc. Each time the collaboration has culminated in dynamic, successful projects that not only relay the creative talents of the architects, but are sensitive to the needs our clients. We have been thoroughly impressed in MWA’s ability to provide architectural services in a professional, timely fashion while always being mindful of the project budget. They possess the unique ability to skillfully facilitate and coordinate work between design team members, contractors, the building trades, consultants, and the end users.
MWA’s clear and concise communication skills and solid project administration have made our collaborations with their office smooth and efficient. Familiar with the politics and issues local to the Tahoe region, Kurt and his team have a proven track record in representing their clients’ interests in a variety of settings. Their team is motivated, well-organized, and possess the ability to move though issues as they arise, and simply “make things happen.” They appear at ease in a leadership role, frequently attaining the best work from their consultants, and understand that great design doesn’t happen in a vacuum. While one senses a certain amount of pride in their design skills, we have seen first-hand their ability to set aside personal ego, and work toward enhancing the team. I count this among their greatest assets.
Of course, a primary reason one hires an architect is to help make a building project a reality in the most creative, aesthetically appealing way possible. At this, MWA truly shines. Their experienced design staff is “top notch,” and is especially adept at creating spaces that are both energetic and harmonious while relating design elements and concepts to the existing environment and site conditions.
It is my opinion that if you choose to work with MWA, Inc., you will be virtually assured a successful project and, by way of getting there, a professional, quality service from one of the best design firms in the region.
-- Spirit Interior Design
MWA’s clear and concise communication skills and solid project administration have made our collaborations with their office smooth and efficient. Familiar with the politics and issues local to the Tahoe region, Kurt and his team have a proven track record in representing their clients’ interests in a variety of settings. Their team is motivated, well-organized, and possess the ability to move though issues as they arise, and simply “make things happen.” They appear at ease in a leadership role, frequently attaining the best work from their consultants, and understand that great design doesn’t happen in a vacuum. While one senses a certain amount of pride in their design skills, we have seen first-hand their ability to set aside personal ego, and work toward enhancing the team. I count this among their greatest assets.
Of course, a primary reason one hires an architect is to help make a building project a reality in the most creative, aesthetically appealing way possible. At this, MWA truly shines. Their experienced design staff is “top notch,” and is especially adept at creating spaces that are both energetic and harmonious while relating design elements and concepts to the existing environment and site conditions.
It is my opinion that if you choose to work with MWA, Inc., you will be virtually assured a successful project and, by way of getting there, a professional, quality service from one of the best design firms in the region.
We are writing to recommend Kurt Reinkens of MWA, lnc. based on his outstanding work on the design and construction of our home at Lahontan.
After purchasing a lot in the spring of 2006, we retained Kurt to develop plans. Within a few months, the plans were completed, we retained a contractor, and we obtained approval from Lahontan to proceed. The process was flawless and working with Kurt and his staff was a pleasure. He helped us select an excellent contractor and he developed a set of plans that maximized our views yet still preserved our privacy. Once construction was underway, Kurt worked closely with us and with our contractor to select interior and exterior finishes. He also developed an excellent landscape plan and helped us select a landscape contractor.
Because we live in the Bay Area, a lot of our communication with Kurt was by e-mail or telephone conference. We found him to be very responsive, so that designing and building a new home “long range” wasn’t a problem. We especially appreciated the fact that hurt would typically propose a number of solutions to an issue, give us the pros and cons of each, so we felt fully informed when making decisions.
Construction was completed exactly on schedule in September 2007. We are extremely pleased with every aspect of our new home and are very grateful to Kurt for an outstanding result.
-- Steven & Dorine Kohn
After purchasing a lot in the spring of 2006, we retained Kurt to develop plans. Within a few months, the plans were completed, we retained a contractor, and we obtained approval from Lahontan to proceed. The process was flawless and working with Kurt and his staff was a pleasure. He helped us select an excellent contractor and he developed a set of plans that maximized our views yet still preserved our privacy. Once construction was underway, Kurt worked closely with us and with our contractor to select interior and exterior finishes. He also developed an excellent landscape plan and helped us select a landscape contractor.
Because we live in the Bay Area, a lot of our communication with Kurt was by e-mail or telephone conference. We found him to be very responsive, so that designing and building a new home “long range” wasn’t a problem. We especially appreciated the fact that hurt would typically propose a number of solutions to an issue, give us the pros and cons of each, so we felt fully informed when making decisions.
Construction was completed exactly on schedule in September 2007. We are extremely pleased with every aspect of our new home and are very grateful to Kurt for an outstanding result.
We have had the pleasure of working on many successful projects through the years with MWA, Inc. It is such a successful relationship because not only are we both creative and forward thinking but we also have the ability to check our egos at the door, blend our styles of projects and project management to create the most positive outcome for the client. Our relationships and firms have flourished even in more difficult time because of our professionalism. We also share interest in the local politics which create a better knowledge of the design environment for the client.
-- Terry Hurt Interior Design
In 2003, we decided to fulfill a shared life’s dream and build a house together. As a couple, we, like many, are similar and different. My husband is practical, traditional and focused. I am creative, more risk oriented and flexible. We sought architectural partners who could relate to and manage our differences, as well as guide us, since we were new to building.
We found our architects in Kurt Reinkens, Managing Partner and Kristi Thompson, Architect at MBA. They listened carefully to our ideas, our architectural style preferences and to our lifestyle needs. They guided us regarding realistic expectations for our project. Then, they jointly conceived of and designed the prototype of our dream home.
At that juncture, project leadership, plans, and working drawings fell to Kristi.
For the 18 months it took to build our home, she ably interfaced with our builder, countless subcontractors and other interior, and landscape designers. She was aware of her role, patient, responsive and strong. She listened when appropriate, kept us informed and guided, when appropriate. She impressed us with her quiet interpersonal strength and was kind and sensitive when the job (as building a house always does) took its toll on our nerves.
I particularly appreciated her kindness in helping me with the project during a year when we both lost our fathers find our teenage son posed some challenges. She also encouraged his involvement in the design of “his” spaces.
Kristi combines rare creativity and practical management skills. She knows when to lead and when to step back and listen. She is also a fine person.
She is very talented. We recommend her highly.
-- Tom and Cathy Van Berkem
We found our architects in Kurt Reinkens, Managing Partner and Kristi Thompson, Architect at MBA. They listened carefully to our ideas, our architectural style preferences and to our lifestyle needs. They guided us regarding realistic expectations for our project. Then, they jointly conceived of and designed the prototype of our dream home.
At that juncture, project leadership, plans, and working drawings fell to Kristi.
For the 18 months it took to build our home, she ably interfaced with our builder, countless subcontractors and other interior, and landscape designers. She was aware of her role, patient, responsive and strong. She listened when appropriate, kept us informed and guided, when appropriate. She impressed us with her quiet interpersonal strength and was kind and sensitive when the job (as building a house always does) took its toll on our nerves.
I particularly appreciated her kindness in helping me with the project during a year when we both lost our fathers find our teenage son posed some challenges. She also encouraged his involvement in the design of “his” spaces.
Kristi combines rare creativity and practical management skills. She knows when to lead and when to step back and listen. She is also a fine person.
She is very talented. We recommend her highly.
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