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 delivering tailored design solutions. Our practice spans residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional projects, emphasizing creativity, functionality, and environmental responsibility. We employ a collaborative approach, involving clients throughout the design process to ensure spaces reflect their unique narratives. With projects across the United States and five continents, we have earned recognition through numerous industry awards. Our team of licensed architects and designers prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainable materials while maintaining a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship.The firms leadership includes active members of professional organizations such as the American Institute of Architects and International Interior Design Association. We have completed award-winning projects in historic preservation, corporate offices, and mixed-use developments. Our work has been featured in prominent publications including Wisconsin Architect and The Daily Reporter. Through personalized service and technical expertise, we create timeless spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with practical needs. Our dedication to client satisfaction is demonstrated by long-standing relationships and repeat engagements across diverse sectors.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
Commercial Offices
Residential Projects
Restaurant Design
Retail Spaces
Educational Facilities
Mixed-Use Developments
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer 24+ years of experience in diverse architectural and interior design projects
- Our personalized approach involves clients throughout the entire design process
- We prioritize environmental responsibility with energy-efficient and sustainable solutions
- Our team includes licensed architects with expertise across multiple project types
- We have completed award-winning projects recognized by IIDA and Wisconsin publications
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services encompass comprehensive planning and design for new constructions and renovations. We specialize in creating functional spaces that meet client needs while adhering to building codes and sustainability standards. With expertise in commercial, residential, and institutional projects, we deliver innovative solutions that balance aesthetic appeal with technical precision.
Interior Design
Interior design services focus on optimizing space functionality while creating visually appealing environments. We handle finish selections, furniture coordination, and wayfinding graphics to create cohesive spaces that reflect client brand identities or personal styles. Our approach integrates ergonomics and accessibility considerations with creative design elements.
Historic Preservation
Specialized historic preservation services maintain architectural integrity while incorporating modern requirements. We handle code compliance upgrades and material restoration for heritage buildings, balancing historical accuracy with contemporary functionality. Our team has experience with landmark designations and preservation guidelines across multiple jurisdictions.
Sustainable Design
Sustainable design incorporates energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials throughout the building lifecycle. We develop solutions for alternate energy integration, material recycling, and environmental responsibility tailored to project-specific goals. Our approach reduces environmental impact while maintaining design excellence and functional performance.
Commercial Offices
Commercial office design services create productive work environments with flexible layouts and modern amenities. We specialize in corporate office renovations, coworking spaces, and headquarters design that support evolving workplace needs. Our solutions integrate technology infrastructure and branding elements to create functional, inspiring spaces that enhance business operations.
People
Melissa Destree
Principal Architect / Interior Designer
Licensed architect with 24+ years experience, specializing in residential and commercial design. Past President of IIDA and AIA, with work featured across five continents. Expertise in historic preservation and sustainable design.
Jeremy Cynkar
Director of Commercial Design
24-year veteran in project management and construction administration. Specializes in municipal coordination and zoning studies. Led award-winning projects including Lake Ridge Bank and University of Wisconsin renovations.
Jason Ekstrom
Design Lead
29-year design professional with expertise in historic renovation and residential projects. Led Prairie Caf Building and Park Hotel renovations. Recognized for craftsmanship in both architectural and furniture design.
Lindsey Shotwell
Designer/ Architect
Licensed architect specializing in residential design with experience in all development stages. Focus on traditional architecture and client-centric solutions. Recipient of multiple design awards for residential projects.
Richard Dolezal
Project Specialist/ Designer
23-year commercial and residential design specialist with expertise in food and beverage planning. Proficient in AutoCAD and Revit, providing technical support for complex projects while maintaining client relationships.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive architecture services including new construction, renovations, historic preservation, and sustainable design for residential, commercial, and institutional projects.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We use a collaborative approach where clients participate in all design stages, ensuring their vision and requirements shape the final space solutions.
Do you specialize in sustainable design?
Yes, we integrate energy-efficient systems, alternate energy sources, and eco-friendly materials into our designs while maintaining aesthetic and functional requirements.
What awards has your firm received?
We've received multiple IIDA awards, Wisconsin Excellence in Masonry awards, and Madison Trust Historic Preservation awards since our founding in 2000.
Can you handle historic building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in historically sensitive renovations with expertise in maintaining architectural integrity while meeting modern functionality requirements.
