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Firm Profile

Dennis E. Zirbel, Architect approaches architectural design with a creative blending of form and function. I view architecture as art with structure to it. Each building becomes an expression of the client's vision and an extension of its natural setting. A timeless artform develops that functions well with regards to its use, environment and sustainability.

Not only are the lives of the people who use the building enriched, but the natural beauty of the site is enhanced by the structure as well. A sustainable building philosophy ensures the enjoyment of these places for generations to come.

My firm is licensed to practice architecture in both California & Nevada. I am a registered Architect in both states and an accredited LEED professional, which gives my clients the ability to "green" certify their project if they so desire. I am also NCARB certified by the National State Board of Architects, which allows my firm to seek architectural licensure in all 50 States.

Dennis E. Zirbel, Architect has designed or worked on over eighteen (18) resort/recreation facilities in the Lake Tahoe / Truckee area and over 250 residences in both Nevada and California. My firm has also been involved in ten (10) Master Planning projects in the Lake Tahoe / Truckee area. My firm possesses both the design creativity and technical expertise to provide architectural services in both the commercial and residential field. In addition, I possess the common sense required for mountain architecture; namely using local materials properly, and taking into consideration the peculiarities of the site, the climate, the wind, the views and most importantly the building's function.

My continued success comes from being flexible with regards to design style but committed to one design philosophy: design structures that elicit the same response from the heart as great music or poetry does from the soul.

 meet the team

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dennis e. Zirbel

architect

Principal Architect Dennis E. Zirbel, a Truckee native and permanent resident, designs structures that grow from their sites and elicit a soulful, emotional response. His architecture follows the indigenous elements and characteristics of each site, while his design style remains flexible to reflect the individuality and aspirations of each client. Dennis' continued success is rooted in his profound sense of the land, his understanding of the built environment and his ability to bring the visions and dreams of his clients to fruition.

 
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natalie zirbel

interior designer

Natalie Zirbel brings years of experience, education and creativity to Dennis E. Zirbel, Architect. Before Natalie joined the firm in early 2013, she worked independently as well as collaborated with Architects and other design professionals to create beautiful interiors throughout Tahoe and the Bay Area. Natalie Zirbel, ASID, holds a degree in Interior Architecture from UC Berkeley and studied Interior Design and the Decorative Arts at UCLA.

 
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david espinoza

project manager

David brings 25 plus years of experience in many areas of architecture to Dennis. E. Zirbel, Architect. Before starting work with Dennis E. Zirbel Architect in June of 2015, David worked for several architectural firms in the Central Valley / Sacramento area. Over the years David has gained experience in architecture, construction and project management and looks forward to applying his knowledge and skills to the projects designed by Dennis and his team.

 
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Yeancarlo Mercado

Project Designer

Yeancarlo has years of experience developing highly technical construction drawings and 3D animations on construction, commercial, and residential projects. 

In early 2009, he started his career as a freelancer in Puerto Rico collaborating with architectural firms, and then later came to the United States to develop industrial projects. 

Facing years of complex scenarios has made him comfortable developing high-quality products and turning his client’s visions into reality.



 
 
 

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