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We are ChandlerWorkshop Architects;
A husband and wife architecture firm, deeply rooted in Napa Valley’s design and construction trades. Growing up as the 3rd generation to a family of designers, sculptors and builders, we understand the artistic process of many types of projects. As a small-scale firm, we foster trusting relationships with our clients, allowing us to create work that is unique and intimate to our client, site, and to the firm.
Named ChandlerWorkshop due to our love for design and metal-work, our fabrication shop has become an integral part of our practice. The workshop is a place where we test and refine the details we design. Being able to personally sculpt our ideas helps emphasize and refine what we have drawn on paper. Creating something that is hand crafted and original. We love architecture because it encompasses so many different vocations into one career - construction, art, psychology, environmental design, city/county governance, and customer service.
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Maddie is an avid runner, gardener, ceramic enthusiast and actively involved in several community groups in Napa County focused on sustainability. She is LEED BD+C accredited.
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Ryan is a devoted mountain biker, car enthusiast and all around talented machinist.
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Together we enjoy hiking, camping, backpacking, snowboarding, and intense road rides on our tandem bicycle.
About US
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Maddie and Ryan met their first day in architecture class and have been together ever since. Dubbed “The Dynamic Duo” in college, they graduated with the highest honors from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2013, with bachelors in Architecture and minor in Sustainable Environments. Ryan proposed to Maddie graduation night.
Straight out of school, they moved to San Francisco to gain experience in large firms while also starting (and completing) their licensing tests, wedding planning and rebuilding a 1957 Cal Craft trailer – the ‘Canned Ham’.
After living in the city for four years, the now husband and wife team, followed their dreams and started their own architectural practice. And what better place than Ryan’s hometown, Saint Helena?
Our Story
Our Logic
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Our philosophy is pretty simple; every project is unique and recognizing those unique opportunities and constraints is where the magic happens. We take our time to come up with the right solutions; understanding that design is not a linear process.
Our love for fabricating, landscape design, antique restoration, ceramics, watercolor, and automotive work has enhanced our creative energy in architecture.
Likewise, our love for nature and [pretty much all] outdoor activities is articulated in our attitude towards responsible design and indoor/outdoor livability of our works. We know this industry has a responsibility to our earth and to do everything we can to mitigate our impact.
The design process is such a long adventure and we recognize every step is important. After all, you cannot build on a bad foundation - literally and figuratively.
A completed project requires many different specialists, teamwork and collaboration - which is a big part of the fun, and an opportunity to learn from industry specialists.
Architecture should be a thoughtful composition as a whole, all the way down to the finest details. We believe that is what makes good architecture - beauty at every level.
