Tahoe Truckee | Residential Design · Land Use Planning · Commercial Tenant Improvements · Permit Plans
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 2015, 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

Tahoe Truckee | Residential Design · Land Use Planning · Commercial Tenant Improvements · Permit Plans
We believe architecture that serves, not just shows, is the most powerful design form in transforming lives and communities. True design excellence goes far beyond visual appeal; it is fundamentally about the user experience and how things work.
Matters

Gray's Crossing W6 Truckee New Construction
We believe architecture that serves, not just shows, is the most powerful design form in transforming lives and communities. True design excellence goes far beyond visual appeal; it is fundamentally about the user experience and how things work.
Matters

Milliken Creek at SILVERADO CONDO Remodel
We believe our client's voice is the most important in the design process. We don't have "projects" to design; we have clients to design for. Our focus is to ensure each solution we devise keeps our client's best interests firmly at the center by asking not "what can be built here", but "for whom is this being built and why?"
Is client-centric

High-Altitude Custom home design
We believe our client's voice is the most important in the design process. We don't have "projects" to design; we have clients to design for. Our focus is to ensure each solution we devise keeps our client's best interests firmly at the center by asking not "what can be built here", but "for whom is this being built and why?"
Is client-centric

Walden House Major Addition Project
We believe in creating spaces that are experienced, not merely occupied. We design for "feel" much more than we design for outward beauty.
Designs that are uniquely you, integrate flawlessly, and are specifically crafted for the way you live your life, all the while creating a special experience you'll never tire of.
Makes your soul smile

Accessory Dwelling Units
Exceptional design should be available, accessible, and above all, affordable for everyone, regardless of their tax bracket. For us, the size of a project means very little. At MASTRIDICASA Design Works, there are no "small" projects. Passion and skill are applied to all of our work, regardless of its scale or budget.
Should be Affordable

Cannablue Commercial Tenant Improvements
SERVICES
01 Design Matters

Austin Ridge truckee New Construction
SERVICES
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Basque House Major Addition Project
SERVICES
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Making minimalism inviting...
SERVICES
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Organic modern design
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Custom
Residential
Design
Bespoke
Inspired
Intentional
Our mission:
Deliver uncompromising
design services
At an unprecedented value
Period.
Tahoe Truckee | Residential Design · Land Use Planning · Commercial Tenant Improvements · Permit Plans
We design
all types of spaces
At all sizes and scales
For all sorts of clients
MASTRIDICASA Design Works is a top-rated design firm based in Lake Tahoe-Truckee, specializing in client-centric solutions for diverse typologies, scales, and construction budgets.
Our immersive collaboration process and no-nonsense approach combines creativity, innovation and a lifetime of AEC industry experience to manifest your design vision.
New custom homes, additions, remodels, commercial tenant improvements, accessory dwelling units...
Whatever your project requirements or construction budget, we’ll meet you with thoughtful, sophisticated, compelling design work.
Paradigm Shift:
There is a quiet conversation
happening all around you
spoken in the language
of light, space, and texture.
It is the dialogue between
you and your environment.
This dialogue is
the very heart of
our design process.
It is the art and science
of shaping our world
to fit the contours of our lives,
our bodies, and our inner spirit,
leading to a deeper sense
of ease and belonging.
We don't ask
“what can be built here?”
Rather, “who will be here,
and what will they need
to feel at peace?”
Our approach sees people
as active participants
in the creation of
their surroundings,
valuing their experiences
and insights
as essential data...
And absolutely paramount
to the design process.

Good Architects
are expensive
[ Good architecture doesn't need to be ]
Our mantra:
Exceptional design
and affordability
can coexist
Put the "AF"
in affordable
Prove it
on every project
No exceptions.


not your typical
design firm
[ We do things differently ]
Small office love
Big office capable
Top-tier expertise with
the attitude, agility, and
personal touch of
a smaller firm
That's us ;)
So is this...


There are no
"small" projects
[ Passion and skill in all our work, regardless of scale or budget ]
For us...
The size of a project
means very little
It's about impact
Not ego.


We believe:
design MATTERS
[ life per square foot ]
Space doesn't equal size...
We create spaces
meant to be experienced
Not merely occupied
It's not about
the quantity of space
but rather
the quality of space.
Phenomenology.


Less talkitecture
More Action
[ Zero % ego-spinach ]
We're straight shooters...
No BS, no endless strategy sessions
wasting your time and budget
We collaborate with you,
figure out solutions,
and hit the ground running
Action = Results

Sierra Cabin
June Lake CA.

Clients speak.
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

MD.24.12
NORCAL Coast.
Design Services.
M.033 HOUSE

[ concept ]
Dillon Beach House

[ new construction ]
Cannablue

[ commercial tenant improvements ]
[ new construction ]

Austin Ridge
Truckee CA.
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT.






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