Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Berkeley, CA
Since 1996, Kava Massih Architects has been a driving force in innovative architectural design across the Bay Area. Our collaborative approach extends to clients and communities, evidenced by our long list of repeat clients. We specialize in delivering creative solutions within time and budget constraints, offering services from feasibility studies to construction administration. Our diverse portfolio spans residential, commercial, institutional, and medical projects, allowing cross-pollination of ideas to enhance problem-solving. We prioritize public engagement in design reviews, integrating stakeholder input to create community-centric spaces. Sustainability is central to our practice, achieved through integrated team collaboration that balances client needs with environmental responsibility.Our principals bring decades of experience in complex project management, stakeholder coordination, and technical expertise. With offices in Berkeley and San Francisco, we maintain a holistic design philosophy that respects both current client goals and future planetary needs. Our team includes recognized leaders in architectural innovation, interior design, and sustainable development. This commitment to excellence has solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in shaping meaningful built environments.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Architecture
Construction Documentation
Feasibility Studies
Space Planning
Programming
Project Administration
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We have 28 years of experience delivering Bay Area architectural projects since 1996
- Our diverse portfolio spans 50+ residential, commercial, and institutional projects
- We employ a collaborative design process with public engagement expertise
- Sustainability is integrated through our LEED-certified team members' expertise
- Our principals maintain direct involvement in all project phases
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions tailored to client needs and site contexts. Our process integrates functional requirements with aesthetic considerations while maintaining budget parameters. Projects range from residential developments to complex institutional buildings requiring public approval processes.
Interior Architecture
Our interior architecture services focus on optimizing spatial functionality while maintaining design integrity. We handle everything from space planning to material selection, ensuring cohesive integration with exterior architectural elements and building systems.
Construction Documentation
We produce comprehensive technical documentation for permitting and construction. Our detailed plans ensure accurate implementation of design intent while addressing code compliance and contractor coordination requirements throughout the building process.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct thorough assessments of project viability including site analysis, zoning regulations, and cost projections. Our studies help clients make informed decisions before committing to full-scale development.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable approach incorporates energy-efficient systems, recycled materials, and passive design strategies. We guide clients through LEED certification processes and implement solutions that reduce environmental impact while maintaining functional excellence.
People
Kava Massih
Principal
Founder of Kava Massih Architects with 28 years of leadership experience. Recognized for innovative design solutions and stakeholder engagement in complex public projects across the Bay Area.
Jerry Mastora
Principal
Co-founding partner with 26+ years of experience managing large-scale institutional projects. Expert in feasibility studies and construction technology with proven budget management capabilities.
Mark Schlientz
Principal
17-year firm veteran specializing in adaptive reuse and healthcare architecture. Leads complex project teams with expertise in client relationship management and technical execution.
Mary Young-Williams
Principal
30-year architectural professional with expertise in healthcare and senior living facilities. Combines interior design mastery with construction management experience across diverse project types.
Sarah Ruplin
Designer
Experienced designer with urban planning background. Brings 15 years of residential and mixed-use project expertise, focusing on community-oriented design solutions and artistic innovation.
Questions
What architectural services does Kava Massih Architects offer?
We provide full-service architectural solutions including design, interior architecture, feasibility studies, construction documentation, and project administration for residential, commercial, and institutional projects.
Do you specialize in specific building types?
Our expertise spans multi-unit housing, medical facilities, commercial buildings, and institutional projects with particular strength in public engagement and sustainable design.
How do you handle public design review processes?
We actively engage stakeholders through all phases, incorporating community input into designs that address concerns while achieving project goals.
What sustainability practices do you implement?
Our LEED-certified team integrates sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and lifecycle analysis across all project phases to minimize environmental impact.
Can you work with tight budget constraints?
Our principals have 25+ years of experience delivering quality projects within budget through value engineering and phased implementation strategies.
