Business Details
26 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architecture & Interior Design in Madison, WI
Destree Design Architects is a Wisconsin-based architecture and interior design firm with over 24 years of experience creating tailored spaces for residential, commercial, and civic projects. Our collaborative approach prioritizes client involvement at every stage, balancing creativity with functionality to deliver timeless, efficient designs. We specialize in historic preservation, sustainable solutions, and diverse project types ranging from single-family homes to international corporate environments. Our team of licensed architects and designers holds advanced degrees and certifications, including AIA, NCARB, and IIDA memberships. Recognized with multiple IIDA awards and featured in Wisconsin Architect and The Daily Reporter, we maintain a global portfolio spanning five continents.Our commitment to environmental responsibility includes integrating energy-efficient systems and alternative energy solutions customized to client goals. With expertise in ADA compliance, building code analysis, and construction documentation, we manage projects from concept through completion. Our work has transformed iconic spaces like the Wisconsin School of Business and Lake Ridge Bank, combining innovation with respect for historical context. As a woman-owned business certified by the State of Wisconsin, we emphasize transparency, technical precision, and community-focused design.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
Construction Documentation
Space Planning
ADA Compliance
Building Code Analysis
Restaurant Design
Commercial Renovation
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We have over 24 years of experience in architecture and interior design.
- Our team includes AIA, NCARB, and IIDA certified professionals.
- We specialize in historic preservation and sustainable design solutions.
- Our work spans five continents with projects featured in industry publications.
- We maintain Wisconsin state certifications for woman-owned business status.
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services encompass new construction, renovations, and historic preservation projects. We specialize in creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet building codes and sustainability standards. Our team manages projects from initial concept through construction documentation.
Interior Design
We offer comprehensive interior design solutions including space planning, finish selections, and furniture coordination. Our approach balances creativity with practicality to create environments that reflect client needs while maintaining code compliance and accessibility standards.
Historic Preservation
Specializing in historic building renovations, we preserve architectural integrity while modernizing systems and spaces. Our services include code upgrades, material analysis, and historically sensitive design solutions that maintain structural authenticity.
Sustainable Design
We integrate energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible materials into all project types. Our sustainable approach includes alternative energy solutions, recycling strategies, and LEED-compliant design practices tailored to each project's specific needs.
Construction Documentation
Our detailed construction documents cover schematic design through final blueprints. We provide technical specifications, material schedules, and code compliance documentation to ensure accurate project execution and contractor bidding.
People
Melissa Destree
Principal Architect / Interior Designer
Licensed architect and interior designer with over two decades of experience. Holds degrees from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and specializes in residential and commercial projects. Active AIA and IIDA member with state advisory board appointments.
Jeremy Cynkar
Director of Commercial Design
Architect with 24 years of project management experience. Specializes in commercial developments and municipal coordination. AIA member with expertise in zoning studies and award-winning project execution for educational and hospitality sectors.
Jason Ekstrom
Design Lead
Certified architecture technologist with 29 years of experience in historic renovation and residential design. Led multiple award-winning projects including the Park Hotel renovation and Prairie Caf Building restoration in Wisconsin.
Lindsey Shotwell
Designer/ Architect
Licensed architect specializing in residential design with experience in all home development stages. Brings traditional architecture expertise and a thoughtful approach to creating functional, aesthetically pleasing living spaces.
Richard Dolezal
Project Specialist/ Designer
23-year design veteran with expertise in commercial and residential projects. Specializes in food and beverage planning, AutoCAD, and Revit. Provides technical support and detailed construction documentation for complex building systems.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architecture including new construction, renovations, historic preservation, and sustainable design solutions for residential, commercial, and civic projects.
Do you specialize in any particular building type?
Our expertise spans residential homes, commercial offices, hospitality spaces, educational facilities, and historic building renovations with a focus on functional, sustainable design.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate energy-efficient systems, alternative energy solutions, and environmentally responsible material selections tailored to each project's specific requirements and location.
Can you handle complex code compliance issues?
Our team specializes in ADA compliance, building code upgrades, and fire code analysis with extensive experience navigating municipal approval processes.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Madison, WI, we work on projects throughout Wisconsin, the United States, and internationally across five continents.
Are you certified as a woman-owned business?
Yes, we hold certifications as a Wisconsin state woman-owned business and are recognized by the City of Madison's Small Business Enterprise program.
Reviews (1)
Matthew Murray
Oct 05, 2020
Report
Friendly, responsive and even helped me figure out how to move forward with my project even though we did not end up needing their services.
