MASTRIDICASA LLC
PO Box 311
Tahoe Vista California 96148
ph: +1 530-448-4280 (no texts please)
email: doug@mastridicasa.com
New residential constructions, accessory dwelling units, remodels, additions, and renovations - MASTRIDICASA can handle all of your project needs.
Serving the Lake Tahoe-Truckee area primarily, as well as Napa, Sonoma, Marin, San Francisco, and most jurisdictions throughout the United States, MASTRIDICASA provides a complete array of residential and commercial design, planning, and construction document/building permit plan preparation services, as well as numerous support services such as project planning, consulting, photo-real rendering, and as-built measuring to name a few.
These services are provided for homeowners, business owners, contractors, real estate agents, and other industry professionals; we serve the entire community.
At MASTRIDICASA, we make the design process simple...
Driven by client goals
Informed by experience
Guided by icons of architecture
Short answer - No and no.
Did you know that Frank Lloyd Wright was never a licensed architect? And no, we're not comparing ourselves to FLW. Just making the point that great design skills don't originate from possessing a title.
As strange as it sounds, California and most other states do not require anyone to be a licensed architect to design and create the building permit plans for most residential and certain commercial projects. See California Business & Professions Code Sections 5537, 5538, 6737.1, and 6745 as examples in California. Most states have similar civil code sections; some have square footage limitations, some have height limitations, etc. For scopes of work that may fall outside of the limitations placed on us, MASTRIDICASA collaborates with registered design professionals to fulfill all of the requirements mandated by law.
In California, all that is required is that the person who prepares the plans signs them (Sec 5536.1) for liability purposes. Just because you're not licensed doesn't mean you don't have to own it. Unlike most "drafting services", MASTRIDICASA carries professional-grade E&O insurance, the same kind licensed architects and engineers have. It costs an unlicensed designer about 3x what a licensed design professional pays for the same coverage. We consider the expense the cost of doing business properly and ethically.
MASTRIDICASA coordinates and collaborates closely throughout the design process with a select group of local consultants - civil, structural, mechanical, and geotech engineers, energy code specialists, and, when required, expert planning professionals. Working together, the design team provides a comprehensive set of superior construction documents tailored to your jurisdiction's requirements.
After 40+ years of AEC industry experience and leadership roles in the field and the office, asking many questions and paying attention, staying up on the latest construction methods, materials, and best practices through close collaborations with the builders MASTRIDICASA works with...
"It takes a village" applies to the whole process of taking your vision from concept to final certificate of occupancy. The designing is but one small part.
Most any kind... brand new residential constructions, remodels, additions, commercial tenant improvements, design-build projects. Most any size, most any scope of work.
If you can envision it, MASTRIDICASA can design it and prepare the construction documents to get your building permit.
In the words of Mr. Frank Lloyd Wright - "Regard it as just as desirable to build a chicken house as to build a cathedral..."
At MASTRIDICASA, there are no insignificant projects; there are no "lesser" design projects. From the smallest remodel projects to the multi-million-dollar estate and private compound projects, it's an honor to help facilitate a client's wishes for their project, regardless of its size or scope of work.
Simple. We're not after your money, we're after your satisfaction. We don't do this for the love of money; we do this for the love of the craft.
By employing the same state-of-the-art software, hardware, and design processes as high-end architecture firms, while eliminating many of the common overhead expenses associated with maintaining a larger office and a multitude of staff, MASTRIDICASA can offer a level of service that rivals expensive design firms without the exorbitant prices.
We keep our rates reasonable - extremely reasonable. Yes, we're capitalists, just not the very best capitalists we can be. We're not cheap, but we are a bargain, especially when you compare us to the high-priced design-haus firms. As a small office, we're not top-heavy or weighed down with massive overhead; we're immediately scalable, nimble, and aren't at the mercy of the economy.
Bottom line? We'd rather keep our prices where they are and design more projects.

2025
Starting at age five, our father, a principal for a highly esteemed multi-disciplinary AEC firm, would take us for ride-alongs on the weekends to job sites. There was a round house that still stands there today - a perfect circle with a staircase along the interior wall leading to a flat roof deck. That house evoked a feeling of indescribable giddiness in us that still drives us today. After that ride-along with Dad, we spent quite a bit of our "inside" time drawing houses on graph paper. At age 12, a state-issued work permit allowed us to start drafting for our father's AEC firm. The rest is history.
After decades of working for several well-respected large multi-disciplinary AEC firms on both the East and West coasts, as well as several smaller offices, it seemed obvious that a void existed that needed to be filled. A residential design service that provided the same detail-oriented, top-tier performance for discerning clients who desired a white-glove experience, all at a price point that was palatable for the 99%.
In 2014, MASTRIDICASA Design Works was established for this very reason - to provide bespoke, cost-effective residential and commercial design services, as well as building permit plan production and a host of other support services, for all those who seek the very best value in this discipline, making stunning design accessible to anyone and everyone who seeks it - no matter their budget.
YOU DESERVE A BEAUTIFUL SPACE...
MASTRIDICASA would love to help you make that possible.
Sincerely,
Douglas A. Mastri
Owner / MASTRIDICASA
GOOD ARCHITECTS ARE EXPENSIVE
GOOD ARCHITECTURE DOESN'T NEED TO BE

LAKE TAHOE TRUCKEE
DESIGN + PLANNING


Shakin' it up

Since 1980


see differently.
design originally.
create exceptionally.


MASTRIDICASA is a top-rated client dialogue-driven design firm located in the Lake Tahoe-Truckee region. Dynamic and results-oriented, we focus on meeting the necessity of your design needs within the constraints of your construction budget. Adept in both practical and indulgent design solutions for various typologies, scales, and budgets, we blend creativity and pragmatism to shape sustainable futures.
Lake Tahoe Truckee | Residential Design + Commercial Design + Planning
Lake Tahoe Truckee
Design + PLANNING
A proven track record of providing affordable, no-nonsense, comprehensive design services for various typologies, scales, and construction budgets since 2014 sets us apart.
Your initial design consultation is complimentary

We don't do this for the love of money - we do this for the love of the craft. We're not after your money, we're after your satisfaction.
We keep our rates reasonable - extremely reasonable. Yes, we're capitalists, just not the very best capitalists we can be. As a small office, we're not top-heavy or weighed down with massive overhead; we're immediately scalable, nimble, and aren't at the mercy of the economy.
BOTTOM LINE? WE'D RATHER KEEP OUR PRICES WHERE THEY ARE AND DESIGN MORE PROJECTS.
Truckee Lake Tahoe | Residential Designer + Commercial Design + Planning
Different by
Design
Small office love, big office capable
MASTRIDICASA Design + Planning offers top-tier expertise with the attitude, agility, and personal touch of a smaller firm

Our passion is creating evocative spaces that meet your every need, inspire, nurture, and bring joy to your everyday life, all the while finding the balance between the built and natural environments.
We combine cutting-edge technology with time-honored design principles to proactively identify missed ideas and opportunities for our clients.
North Lake Tahoe Truckee | Residential Design + Commercial Design + Planning
BALANCED
Design
Pursuing balance...
Between the natural and built environments, vision and constraints, aesthetics and function

From catios to barndominiums, tiny bathroom remodels to 20+ acre compound-style retreats, or completely updating your commercial property's aesthetics and brand image - we can provide you with expert guidance, assistance, and the required deliverables for any jurisdiction, any size project, any scope of work, efficiently and affordably. MASTRIDICASA is your trusted partner from start to finish.
Truckee Lake Tahoe | Affordable Residential Design + Commercial Design + Planning
AFFORDABLE LUXE
Design
MASTRIDICASA makes the elevated design experience available and accessible for everyone
Save your money for the construction, we'll deliver the design documents for an unprecedented value - guaranteed

Whether you are looking to design an expansive dream home or a small off-grid cabin, partially or completely revamp your current home, add a garage, a new living space, build an ADU, or embark on a small-scale project, our comprehensive design services masterfully distill and transform all of your ideas into a tangible reality.
South Lake Tahoe Truckee | Residential Designer + Commercial Design + Planning
Client Driven
Design
This is your vision, your home, your sanctuary - you are the most important voice in this process. MASTRIDICASA expertly distills all of your must-haves and wildest ideas into a purposeful design that reflects your unique expression of life.

Our clientele comes from every walk of life. From the owner-builder family living in a camper on their vacant land, saving every penny to build a better future, to Wall Street money managers and Silicon Valley gaming industry superstars designing their private retreats in Tahoe, to the numerous contractors we work with who know time is money and our timely and efficient design services keep their crews busy, projects on schedule, and clients happy.
Lake Tahoe Truckee | Custom Residential Design + Commercial Design + Planning
Accessible
Design
Your initial design consultation is complimentary
There's almost nothing we enjoy more than listening to you dream of your ideas for a new space. When you're excited, we're excited.

Our design solutions integrate long-term vision with innovative ideas and strategies that can grow with you. We believe in creating spaces that not only meet your every need today but are also flexible and adaptable enough to meet your ever-evolving future head-on.
Lake Tahoe Kings Beach | Residential + Commercial Design +Planning
Inspired
Design
Inspiration is a cornerstone of our design process - it drives our creativity and innovation processes.
MASTRIDICASA designs strive to be always relevant, always timeless, always a reflection of you.

We view every project as a chance to deepen the connection between people and place. Our design work is subtly attuned to its surroundings, designs that emerge from thoughtful, optimistic dialogues, guided by sensitivity, respect, and a deep commitment to stewardship. We use a purposeful mix of form, material, space, and light to reveal the essential identity of each site, making a lasting contribution to the built environment in a sustainable and environmentally intelligent manner.
Truckee Soda Springs | Residential Design + Commercial Design + Planning
Responsible
Design
Eco-friendly, holistic, resilient, adaptable, sustainable, green-building, future-proof...
More than just buzz words at MASTRIDICASA, these are core principles built into every design.

With more than $25 million in construction projects built from our design documents, be assured that MASTRIDICASA can accommodate your project needs, no matter the scope of work and construction budget.
Lake Tahoe Truckee | Custom Residential Design + Commercial Design + Planning
Informed
Design
40+ years of AEC industry leadership.
MASTRIDICASA draws from a deep well of real-world skin-in-the-game experience for bottom-line results.

Designing a great feeling space that meets necessity, functions with purpose and intention, the perfect space that fosters wellness and becomes the backdrop and fabric of your life's most unforgettable moments. Delivering designs that are uniquely you, integrate flawlessly, and are specifically crafted for the way you live your life, all the while creating an evocative experience you'll never tire of.
DESIGNING SPACES THAT MAKE YOUR SOUL SMILE
Truckee Lake Tahoe | Residential Designer + Commercial Design + Planning
WELLNESS
Design
The data proves it, we're all products of our environments...
Space doesn't equal size. A healthy home isn’t about the quantity of space but rather the quality of space.

We offer genuine expertise, not arrogance. Our approach is transparent and direct. We think with agility, clearly state our intentions, and then reliably execute our promises to achieve high-quality results.
WELCOME TO MASTRIDICASA
WHERE TOGETHER, THE FUTURE IS OUR CANVAS
AND THAT FUTURE IS RIGHT NOW
Lake Tahoe Truckee | Custom Home Design + Commercial Design + Planning
Collaborative
Design
It takes a village...
MASTRIDICASA works with a select team of tier-one design professionals and builders to bring your vision from concept to completion
Satisfied Clients
Keeping us
grateful + humble
Client Reviews.
Client Reviews.

Over the last 20 years involved in buying, improving, renovating and selling residential real estate, I have worked with many designers, planners, architects, engineers and general contractors.
With each hire there are really 3 things you hope to get:
1. Professionalism - getting things done well, on time and within expectations of their profession
2. Expertise - superior knowledge and skills in what they do, and
3. Empathy - an appreciation of the ideas, and desires of the customer and using that understanding in doing work
Doug is really the ONLY person I can think of who would score a ’10’ in each category. His professionalism, attitude, expertise, knowledge, and most importantly, proactive appreciation of what we were looking for in our home remodel project is really unparalleled.
I would recommend MASTRIDICASA for any design, planning and architecture job without hesitation, and above anyone else.
D. Sinha
As the owner of CMJR Construction, I cannot recommend Doug and his services enough! He is incredibly talented, thorough, and responsive. We have relied on Doug and his expertise to guide us through many large, intricate projects that would have otherwise left us scratching our heads on how to proceed. His renderings are stunning and we are always eager to show our clients what he comes up with! Being able to provide our customers with visuals of the final product of their project is priceless. We would highly recommend MASTRIDICASA for all of your residential design needs!
Eric Scott
I've had the privilege of working with Doug on a couple projects now and I have to say, each one has been an incredible experience. Doug really knows his stuff, and you can see it in his designs and the way he goes about his work and interacts with his clients and subcontractors. He's also willing to work collaboratively on his designs which is like a breath of fresh air. As a structural engineer, when I get to work with someone who is willing to listen to suggestions, not only does it make my job so much easier, but more importantly it allows for a great design that looks incredible, thanks to Doug, but also has the added benefit of easier and cheaper to construct.
This in my opinion makes MASTRIDICASA a great residential design firm and one who delivers a final product that goes above and beyond what the client expected. I look forward to working with MASTRIDICASA on many projects in the future.
Rowland Perez
CFBR Structural Group
Working with MASTRIDICASA has been an enlightening and inspiring journey. From the outset, their deep understanding of architectural principles and their uncanny ability to balance aesthetics with functionality set them apart.
MASTRIDICASA's creative process consistently brings forth innovative and thoughtful design ideas that capture the essence of each project's unique needs and aspirations. Every design project MASTRIDICASA undertakes becomes a true testament to their mastery of space, light, and materials. The quality of their work is reflected not just in their stunning designs, but also in the meticulous attention to detail they exhibit during construction supervision.
MASTRIDICASA has an excellent communication skillset, they listen attentively to clients' requirements and translate those needs into designs that exceed all expectations. Their integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence shine through in every project they handle.
We wholeheartedly recommend MASTRIDICASA to anyone looking for an designer who can deliver outstanding design and impeccable service. They truly redefine the boundaries of residential design."
Daniel Irish
I have been a design professional for over 30 years and have worked alongside many architects, builders, and tradesmen in the field. When it was finally time for me to embark on a custom home of my own, I was connected with Doug, the owner of MASTRIDICASA and knew he was the perfect fit. He listened to what was important to me, took all the important factors of our property into consideration, and translated it all into an amazing design. Doug is very easy to work with and made the process a pleasure. I could not recommend him more.
MASTRIDICASA will make your dreams come true!
Sarah F
I contacted MASTRIDICASA for help with design and layout for a basement bathroom addition and laundry room reconfigure. Doug was super helpful and knowledgeable from our first call, and awesome to work with. He had creative ideas to meet the building code and my desires in a tiny space. He advised me from a cost conscious perspective, and followed through on his comment that he “doesn’t like wasting client’s money.” I am so happy with his design, and would recommend his work to anyone!
Nicole Kryda
Doug has been great to work with as we've been remodeling our home. He helped us think through design decisions. He is thorough and responsive. Always quick to respond to calls or emails and has been great communicating with all the various parties involved (contractor, building department, engineer). Thanks for all your help!
Tyler S.
I chose MASTRIDICASA to design my ADU in Truckee and I couldn't be happier with the process. Doug is professional but has a casual and easygoing style that makes the design process enjoyable. He always answers his phone which seems incredibly rare in this field. It's great to find someone quick to respond to small questions and changes. He worked easily with my special circumstances and challenges throughout the project. In the end we finished on time and under budget.
Thanks Doug!
Tim A
First off - wow! This has to be the most complete and detailed set of residential permit plans I have ever seen!
MASTRIDICASA really knows their stuff. This kind of professionalism makes the project easier for everybody.
You guys do a great job with your permit plans. I see over a hundred and fifty permit plans each year, from all over the state, and yours really stand out. They are very professional, and very complete.
I spent 40 years designing building systems for residential and commercial buildings and one thing I learned was that the more complete the design drawings, the more money we made and the less problems we had during construction. Nice job.
Gary Welch, Principal
ICC certified CalGreen Special Inspector/Plans Examiner
CalGreen Energy Services
I have had the pleasure of working with Doug for 20+ years, first as he was an employee of my architectural firm, and in later years as a collaborator on a number of projects. I will attest to his knowledge of the design challenges we face in our high mountain climate, his ability to comprehend and understand the various HOA Architectural Design Guidelines for a number of Communities, and finally, his knowledge of construction materials and methods currently needed in our environment.
In short, I am confident in his ability to communicate, via through design drawings and written form, the design ideas he and his clients wish to present to your Design Review Committee.
Gary McKelvey, Architect (CA C23442)
We wanted to build out an unfinished basement area into a second floor of our home in Tahoe City. We hired Doug at MASTRIDICASA to formalize our plans into a permit ready set. Honestly, the process was flawless. Doug was communicative, reliable, prompt, and collaborative -- exactly what we were looking for.
Doug spotted the problem places in the plan and we worked together to redesign them to meet code and flow nicely. The plan check with the county went smoothly. We're so happy we used Doug's services and would enthusiastically recommend him to our friends!
Gregg Seiler
During Covid I decided that I wanted to add a back deck and Jacuzzi to my house in Tahoe Donner. After much back and forth with other architecture and design firms, I chose to work with MASTRIDICASA. What a great decision! Doug was always available to discuss any challenges that I ran into as well as quick to communicate with my GC and the Tahoe Donner ASO. His turn around time was fantastic. I also found him to be a great Guide through the many challenges that construction projects in the Lake Tahoe area can present. I highly recommend working with MASTRIDICASA on any of your Lake Tahoe residential design needs. You will not be disappointed.
Brett M
We met Doug on one of our more challenging remodel/additions. The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to communicate with him. We had many obstacles on this project and Doug was always available to assist in finding the solution. He even offered to join us in a meeting with the planning division where he helped us solve a zoning issue.
His design work and drafting is impeccable, quickly executed and of course, accurate! We plan to use MASTRIDICASA whenever possible.
Sam Bueckert
530 Builders
Doug is awesome to work with-period. As an interior designer, it's important to me to work within the industry with professionals who respect each others' work and have an excellent command of the trade skills they bring to the table. Doug accomplishes this and then some. He's easy to work with, accessible, knowledgeable, and most important, creates a top notch deliverable. His effortless interaction with the other industry professionals working on our project made things run as smoothly as possible. I'd recommend MASTRIDICASA 100% of the time.
Janet F Tight
As a five star General Contractor with over $16 million in projects under my belt I can tell you that MASTRIDICASA is a breath of fresh air! Doug is competent, reliable, and honest. Doug is one of the most serious, and sincere Drafters / Designers I’ve ever worked with. Typically after submitting initial plans to the city for permitting they are returned with multiple corrections. Doesn’t happen with Doug! Saving us money and time, to be sure. The list goes on but here is one important characteristic of Doug - he’s a sensitive listener which in turn encourages design creativity. I highly recommend MASTRIDICASA for your next project.
Mark D
Doug was a real asset while I was at KB Foster. He had an extensive knowledge of the Lake Tahoe Basin and was adept in getting projects out the door. His ability to relate to clients was a definite plus. I recommend his work without hesitation.
LK Stevenson
MASTRIDICASA Architecture + Design is hands down one of my favorite teams to work with. Doug’s in-depth knowledge of construction best practices and building codes makes him the best in Tahoe.
What I’ve found unique about Doug is that he delivers consistent hidden gem insights into the homebuilding process, which makes him so wonderful to work with.
It’s an absolute pleasure working with MASTRIDICASA, and I look forward to working with them in the future.
I love Gray's Crossing W6
There’s a real clarity of purpose and rigor of process to it. You have this way in your work of uniting beauty and form with strategy and intelligence.
You’re doing great work.
N. Rados
I had an amazing experience working with Doug and his company in completing an expansion project at my house. Doug was incredibly helpful and attentive, ensuring all my needs were met. The level of customer service was truly top-notch. He and his company exceeded my expectations. Working with him was one of the best decisions I made.
Brian Schwarz
We worked with Doug on an extensive remodel in the Truckee area last year and we would definitely use him again. We found him to be easy to work with, responsive, very resourceful and knowledgeable. His advice and guidance was very helpful throughout the permitting process.
Davor G.
It has been a great experience designing our home with Doug! He's efficient and prompt with changes. He has good insight on constructability, and is fair with his fees. I highly recommend working with him.
M. Stewart

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication
Creativity has more to do with the elimination of the inessential than with inventing something new - Helmut Jahn, Architect
The premise goes hand-in-hand with Da Vinci's "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication"...
Our perspective on creativity contrasts with the popular notion that innovation is solely about producing something entirely novel. Instead, it frames the creative design process as a form of skillful editing and distillation. The core idea is that a great design is not one where nothing can be added, but one where nothing can be taken away. By removing superfluous details and ornamentation, we can achieve a purer, more powerful result.
Through this lens, our designs will always begin with the simplest way to get from A to Z. Eliminating the inessential means stripping away elements that may complicate construction unnecessarily, and do not improve the building's comfort, efficiency, or experience for its occupants. The creative process is less about a single "eureka" moment and more about refining and iterating on ideas. The truly creative act is often the final act of editing that brings an existing concept into its final, most essential, and powerful form.
True elegance and refinement are achieved by stripping away the unnecessary to reveal the essential core of an idea, design, or concept
2024
Work Highlights.
Work Highlights.
Play Time
Exploring, ideating, creating
Concept Development.
Concept Development.








Before you're off to your next big adventure...
For a limited time, MASTRIDICASA Design is offering complimentary design consultations. Simply click on the contact form and answer a few short questions.























