First founded in 1904, Sparks is noted for being one of the most affordable areas to live in the state of Nevada. Its tone is set with an array of charming and elegant homes, in addition to various condominiums and townhomes. It is a popular choice for both young professionals and growing families and offers its residents countless festivals and events throughout the year.
We decided to showcase seven of Sparks’ best architects. These firms are behind some of the charming town’s most beautiful homes and residential spaces. Our editorial team created this list after evaluating the experience, backgrounds, and industry awards of a number of firms providing work in the area.
CWX Architects
1680 Montclair Avenue, Suite A, Reno, NV 89509
CWX operates out of its office in Reno and provides its clients a full range of architecture, planning, and interior design services. It provides creative solutions and has been servicing the area for the greater part of nearly three decades. The firm has also had the opportunity to complete projects outside of Nevada, particularly in sought-after commercial districts in the states of California and Alaska. The company’s portfolio showcases a variety of project types, including residential, retail, office, financial, and hospitality spaces.
The depicted project shows the company’s work for the St. James residence. The team opted for excellent wood finishes and a great open concept floorplan. It also installed high ceilings, exposed beams, and a custom stone fireplace.
Collaborative Design Studio
9444 Double R Boulevard, Suite B, Reno, NV 89521
With over three decades of industry experience, Collaborative Design Studio is the product of the vision of Peter Grove and Todd Lankenau, who were once managing partners of Lundahl and Associates, Architects. Under their leadership, the firm makes use of a highly collaborative approach and makes sure that each project it takes on receives the benefit of its experience. The firm has also been distinguished with a multitude of accolades such as the Associated General Contractors Design Professional of the Year. Several of the firm’s projects have also achieved LEED Gold Certification.
The firm’s work has graced the pages of publications like AIArchitect and Tahoe Quarterly. The Pennington Residence is a great example of what the firm is capable of. Located in Reno, this home spans over 19,500 square feet and challenged the firm with its design and construction administration.
Cathexes
427 Ridge Street, Suite C, Reno, NV 89501
Cathexes has been tasked with a number of notable projects through the years. Cathexes launched the amphitheater at Victorian Square back in the 80s; it provided the City of Reno Arts Commission in the following decade. The firm is manned by a talented team of licensed professionals and artisans. Together, they have garnered acclaim and designed various complex residences. Its principals were also the minds behind the establishment of the Black Rock Design Institute back in 2004, which was founded to raise awareness in the region and has since had the opportunity to collaborate with countless impressive and renowned design professionals.
The depicted project showcases the company’s work on 2345 House. It spans over 6,000 square feet and contains two stories, three bedrooms, and a three-car garage. Some other great elements include its very own elevator, swimming pool, and various entertainment spaces. Our editorial team loved its modern and clean architecture coupled with its floor-to-ceiling glass windows, sweeping curves, and Old World-inspired stonework.
Don Mackey Architect
875 Roberta Lane, Suite 101, Sparks, NV 89431
Don Mackey Architect specializes in both residential and commercial projects. Headquartered in its office in Sparks, it extends its services throughout the area and has been offering its stellar work to the community since 1981. Its portfolio showcases several excellent apartments, residential retirement centers, and sporting facilities. We were also impressed by its office buildings, malls, hotels, casinos, and warehouses. The firm makes use of the best and latest Building Information Modeling, which enables it to provide excellent renderings and plans throughout the entire process.
The firm is personally led and overseen by its namesake, Don Mackey. He holds a degree from the University of Oregon and first gained experience working for two years in the residential and light commercial construction field. He is registered in the states of Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Louisiana, Texas, and California. He also maintains affiliations with vital professional organizations such as the Nothern Nevada Chapter of the AIA.
Hooft Architecture
3376 Laveaga Court, Sparks, NV 89431
Hooft Architecture provides the entirety of Sparks a full range of architectural services. The firm has plenty of talent and expertise for designing office, industrial, retail, hospitality, residential, and special projects and assists its clients throughout the entire process. From inception to completion, its team oversees each aspect of every home it takes on. It also makes use of Building Information Modeling, in addition to other 3D modeling and rendering software, which allows for little to almost no revisions throughout the entire process. In terms of design, the firm’s portfolio depicts a great array of both modern and traditional homes.
The firm is led by Bob Hooft, who first began his career with Gary Nelson & Associates in Phoenix. In 1989 Bob and his family moved back to Northern Nevada and eventually established his practice in 2010. He is an active member of the AIA and holds degrees from Harvard University and the University of Kansas.
Miles Architectural Group
10800 Sand Hollow Court, Reno, NV 89521
Miles Architectural is a small practice that draws inspiration from over two decades of industry experience. It has had the opportunity to work in some of the best communities in the states of Nevada and California. The firm provides a full range of services and is especially noted for its attention to detail and management expertise. Otherwise known as MAG, the company is led by Steven and Douglas Miles. Steven is the firm’s founder and is responsible for MAG’s overall designs. He holds a degree in architectural design and technology studies from the University of Nevada, with additional architectural studies at Arizona State University. Douglas, on the other hand, has been with MAG since its founding in 1998. He oversees document processing and office support for both clients and contractors during construction.
The work featured here is an excellent example of the firm’s ability. The firm’s team designed custom vaulted ceilings made of exposed beams. It also opted for stucco finishes, a custom stove hood, and excellent cabinetry. We also loved its wood-paneled flooring and wrought iron touches.
KRI Architecture & Design
321 E 5th Street, Reno, NV 89501
As its name suggests, KRI offers its clients a complete set of architecture and design services. It offers its work at highly competitive prices and is completes all of its work on time and within the agreed-upon budget. The company’s portfolio depicts countless single- and multi-family homes, commercial structures, and hospitality spaces. Since its establishment, the firm has fostered partnerships and relationships with some of the area’s best and leading subcontractors. Those relationships have produced outstanding spaces.
Dubbed the “Pinecone,” this project was completed back in 2015. It houses four bedrooms and three bathrooms and spans 3,200 square feet. The project sits on a great lot surrounded by pine trees so the KRI team maximized opted for a great Tahoe wood feel.
