Connect

Tell us what you want,

what you’re building.

We’ll tell you the best way to deliver it.

If you’re an client, architect, or collaborator interested in working together, the best way to reach us is directly.

Call or text

415-275-3405

Email

mail@spirebuilt.com

Based in Mill Valley, California. Working throughout Northern California and beyond.

  • I’ve worked with Doron on several projects in California and have always been amazed by his creative energy. In client meetings he is constantly sketching and it’s fascinating to witness.

    PAULETTE TRAINER, INTERIOR DESIGNER

  • I would highly recommend working with Doron of Spire Architecture. He has a great sense of style and can immediately understand what will or won't work when contemplating design concepts. In addition, he listens intently to the client so that the collaboration of ideas ends in a mutually desired result. Doron's easy going personality and passion for his work makes for a productive and harmonious experience.

    TERESA CHAFFEE

  • I asked for exceptional architecture, spire delivered in every way.

    BRANDON T. : LOS ANGELES DESIGN-BUILD

  • I was Project Manager on a complex high end custom home in which Doron designed. As with most custom homes there are always changes or modifications and this is where Spire really shines and works very well with homeowner, contractor and subcontractors to get exactly what the client wants. His on the job presence and knowledge of design really helps all involved to come up with ideas that further enhance the project while keeping costs in line. He is open to ideas form all involved and is a team player which makes the building experience much more pleasant. He can design/sketch multiple ideas during meetings so everyone can see the options and make an informed decision. Needless to say the project was a success and I would highly recommend Spire Architecture for any project.

    STEVE MOBERG, PROJECT SUPERINTENDENT

  • Doron showed continued knowledge, professionalism and diligence in my interactions with him in the construction and inspection fields. He is always open to interpretation and implementation of the building codes and anxious to comply with code requirements. His hands on supervision lends to quality and expedient results.

    MICHAEL D, BUILDING INSPECTOR

  • Doron Dreksler at Spire provided us with extensive architecture and design services for the remodel of a fine home we purchased in San Francisco, CA. The house was built on a grand scale in the early 1900s with classic high end finishes. However, this grand dame home needed some modernizing without compromising its wonderful vintage qualities. Mr. Dreksler did a wonderful job for us in achieving this goal. He was knowledgeable and creative, yet unlike some architects we have previously used, he was an excellent listener. He collaborated well. He was prompt with his work and his fees were fair. He was fresh, energetic and fun. He had an infectious positive attitude. His motto throughout the process was "stay inspired". Although this was a big, expensive and time consuming project with many challenges, he kept us inspired. We love the results. Bottom line, Mr. Dreksler and Spire were excellent.

    DAVID Y, SAN FRANCISCO

  • I highly recommend working with Doron. He has a terrific design sense and is full of great ideas. He is also very good at understanding what you want and working with you to achieve your goals. He is professional, prompt and thorough and an all-around charming, easy to get along with guy. All of these attributes make him someone I recommend highly and I would definitely work with him again.

    LISA HENSON, CLIENT

  • Doron Dreksler aka Spire Architecture and I worked together on numerous residences from 2000 to 2008. He designed and drew the plans and I was the General Contractor. Doron has a gift for visualizing and placing a house or addition on any property in a way that complements the site and takes advantage of the views from all directions. He was always available for consultation during construction and came up with answers to any and all questions and concerns. I highly recommend Doron. You won't be disappointed.

    ESA KIRJOLA, CONTRACTOR

  • Doron's work on the architecture and siting of the Shannahan Residence in Granite Bay resulted in a stunning project that fully engages the natural elements of the site topography, magnificent rock outcrops, ancient oak trees and panoramic views, and set the stage for the creation of an exterior environment that allowed seamless integration of the front welcoming space and the patio entertainment areas with the interior spaces and the views from all areas of the structure. A joy to work with!

    RONALD ALLISON, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

  • When we hired Doron Dreksler the name of his company was Doron Dreksler Designs. In the middle of our design/build he change his company name to SPIRE. Much more creative name for the creative architect that he is. Doron was very aware of the site and how the house, drive, shop and garage should sit and how all of these buildings should fit into the property. We have over 40 oaks on 5 acres and we were able to save all the trees. The design itself is perfect for the property. Doron is very cognizant of what will work and what will not work on a piece of property. He works hard to create the picture perfect design for the property and then delivers to build the most deliberately designed architecture for his clients. I would recommend Doron Dreksler, SPIRE Architecture to anyone who is looking to get the full benefit of their property and architecture you can be most proud of.

    D & D SMITH

  • I am working with Doron on a single family home in Guerneville. He is creative, prompt, and honest and I would recommend him to anyone.

    Pierce Cavallero

  • After building several homes during my life, I hired Doron (Spire Architecture) to design our retirement home in the foothills. With a 360° hilltop view and a goal to have a modern Tuscan farmhouse, Doron did a fantastic job integrating the dwelling to the landscape and exceeding our expectations. With his knowledge of period architecture and creative ideas, our home truly is “a modern Tuscan farmhouse.” We are completely satisfied with his performance and would not hesitate to recommend Spire Architecture.

    LESTER BRUSATORI

  • We are owners and operators of an 18 room Inn in the Sierra Foothills. In 2009 we engaged Sprire Architecture to help with the complete renovation of a 100 year old building in the historic district. The project included a full restaurant build-out in the same space and new rooms on the second floor. Working with Doron from Spire he immediately processed our project priorities from both an aesthetic and economic standpoint. It took 4 years to obtain the financing and approvals for this $1M plus complete renovation, yet during this time Doron was patient with us as the design process continually evolved. Our goal was to honor the historic qualities of the building yet add a modern sophistication to the space. Spire helped us to achieve these goals and improve the overall function and flow of our building. Doron listens and respects his clients while using his visual and creative feel to improve the project. He has also worked as a general contractor so he can see the project from the construction stand point so the design has an economic reality. I plan on working with Spire again in the future and would recommend his services. robert gordon

    ROBERT GORDON

  • We used Doron's services as an architect in 2007/2008, for what amounted to a total remodel of our home, reducing it to 2 bedrooms before re- construction began. Doron was easy to work with in the design phase, available for questions and some changes as the project continued and worked with ourselves and the contractor very well. We remain very happy with the work product we received. As an aside, but an example of the quality of the work, our home was selected for a local house tour in the year after the work was completed.

    ALAN BIERCE

  • As a photographer I work with both architects and with builders, but these days its rare to find an architect whose also builds out his designs. Doron is unique in that respect, starting with concept and following through to see it built as imagined. I'm never there for the beginning of the process, but when I visit one of his projects to photograph it, its fascinating to have him explain the aesthetic and functional, and how they interact. Architecture is the art of spaces and building is the craft of it. Doron is both an artist and a craftsman!

    DAVE ADAMS, PHOTOGRAPHER

  • Doron Dreksler was both the architect and general contractor for our house in Volcano, CA. He is especially gifted in designing and orienting a house that takes advantage of the best views. We were very impressed with the integrity and work ethic of his subcontractors. Both Doron and the subs were very responsive to our desires and worked very hard to finish our house on schedule. Doron is wonderful to work with. He has a positive attitude and is excited about designing and building beautiful homes.

    KEN REDLER, DESIGN + BUILD CLIENT

  • We had a great time working with Doron and I can't imagine finding a more creative and talented person to help us in this big process.

    AARON + KAREN B, DESIGN + BUILD CLIENT

  • I highly recommend Doron as not only a gifted designer but a true team player. BDA has teamed with Doron on both commercial and residential projects with fantastic results. Always a positive experience.

    BRUCE BENNING, INTERIORS + LIGHTING DESIGN

Hear from Our Clients

Every project we take on is the result of deliberate choices—by our clients and by us.
The sections below outline how we think, how we work, and what it’s like to partner with Spire Architecture Inc. Whether a project is delivered as design-only, architect-led design-build, or architect-built, our approach is grounded in clarity, craftsmanship, and long-term value. This is not a one-size-fits-all process—and that’s by design.

  • Who we are

    Spire Architecture Inc. is a high-end residential architecture and design-build firm based in Mill Valley, California. We specialize in custom homes and complex residential projects for clients who value design excellence, craftsmanship, and a disciplined process.

    Our work spans design-only architecture, architect-led design-build, and architect-built construction partnerships, allowing each project to be delivered using the model best suited to its goals.

    What makes Spire different

    We operate at the intersection of architecture and construction—by intention, not accident.

    As licensed architects and general contractors, we design with a clear understanding of how buildings are actually built: cost, sequencing, risk, and execution. That perspective allows us to make smarter decisions earlier, reduce friction later, and deliver architecture that holds up from concept through completion.

    Fewer handoffs. Fewer surprises. Better outcomes.

    Types of projects we take on

    Our work typically includes:

    • Custom single-family residences

    • Luxury remodels and additions

    • Architect-led design-build homes

    • Architect-built and construction-partner projects

    Budgets typically begin around $2.5M and extend well beyond, with complexity, quality, and long-term value driving scope.

    Where we work

    We are headquartered in Mill Valley, California, serving Marin County, the San Francisco Bay Area, and select projects throughout Northern California.

    Working with non-local clients

    Many of our clients live elsewhere during design and construction. We use structured meetings, shared dashboards, and clear documentation to keep projects moving forward with transparency and confidence—regardless of location.

    Distance doesn’t reduce involvement. It simply requires better systems.

  • Architectural approach & style

    We are modernists at heart. Our work often draws from Modern Contemporary, Mid-Century Modern, Coastal Contemporary, and Scandinavian Modern traditions—but we don’t design by formula or trend.

    Each home is shaped by its site, climate, program, and the way our clients live. Style is a framework; the real goal is architecture that feels effortless, grounded, and enduring.

    How we approach design

    Our process is collaborative, structured, and intentional. We listen carefully—how you live, what works today, what doesn’t—then translate those insights into architecture that balances clarity, warmth, and performance.

    Design decisions are always informed by:

    • Real-world constructability

    • Budget and schedule implications

    • Long-term livability and durability

    Beautiful ideas are only valuable if they can be executed well.

    Design-only, design-build, and architect-built

    We offer multiple delivery paths:

    • Design-only architecture for clients working with a separate builder

    • Architect-led design-build for fully integrated delivery

    • Architect-built / construction-partner models for select projects

    We help clients choose the approach that best aligns with risk tolerance, complexity, and desired level of involvement.

    Typical timelines

    While every project is unique, a general range is:

    • Design + planning: ~8–14 months

    • Construction: ~12–24 months

    We establish a project-specific roadmap early and refine it as decisions are made—no vague timelines, no guesswork.

    Client involvement

    We encourage meaningful involvement without unnecessary noise. Clients are guided through key decisions at the right moments, with clear options and implications presented along the way.

    High engagement. Low friction.

  • How budgets are established

    Budgets are developed collaboratively based on scope, design goals, site conditions, and desired level of finish. We align design decisions with financial realities early—before momentum and emotion complicate the process.

    Understanding project costs

    While every project differs, custom residential work typically includes:

    • Architecture & design services

    • Construction management or general contracting

    • Materials, systems, and finishes

    • Consultants, permitting, and soft costs

    Rather than rely on generic percentages, we focus on real numbers tied to real decisions.

    Cost control & transparency

    We track costs continuously and review budgets regularly. When changes arise—as they inevitably do—we communicate clearly, explain options, and allow clients to make informed decisions before costs escalate.

    No surprises. No buried numbers.

    Project management

    We take a hands-on role throughout design and construction. Our team coordinates consultants and trades, monitors schedule and quality, and ensures that execution aligns with the design intent.

    Architecture doesn’t end at the drawings.

    Communication & reporting

    Clients receive regular updates, scheduled meetings, and access to shared project information. You’ll always know where the project stands, what decisions are coming up, and what they mean.

  • Level of customization

    Every project is fully custom. Layouts, details, materials, and systems are developed specifically for each client—no templates, no stock solutions.

    Designing around your lifestyle

    Homes are shaped around how you live. Whether that means accommodating a car collection, art, entertaining, remote work, or outdoor living, the architecture responds to your priorities—not the other way around.

    Materials & detailing

    We prioritize materials that are durable, authentic, and appropriate to the project. Quality is evaluated not just visually, but in how things age, perform, and feel over time.

    Client involvement in selections

    Clients are actively involved in selecting finishes and fixtures, with guidance from our team to ensure decisions remain cohesive, buildable, and aligned with budget and schedule.

    Sustainability (without dogma)

    Sustainability is integrated thoughtfully—energy efficiency, durable materials, and smart systems—without compromising design or comfort. The goal is performance that feels natural, not performative.

    Technology & innovation

    We regularly incorporate smart home systems, high-performance envelopes, efficient mechanical systems, and emerging construction methods when they meaningfully improve the project.

  • Project completion & handover

    At the end of construction, we conduct a detailed walkthrough and provide a comprehensive handover package including warranties, maintenance guidance, and key contacts.

    Warranty & accountability

    When we serve as both architect and builder, we provide clear construction warranties covering workmanship, materials, and installed systems. We stand behind what we design and build.

    Starting a project

    The process begins with our website contact form. This allows us to understand your project goals, scope, and timeline before scheduling next steps.

    What happens after you reach out

    After reviewing your submission, one of three paths follows:

    • Aligned projects: You’ll receive our Investment Guide, outlining our process, approach, and next steps.

    • Potential fit: We’ll reach out with a few clarifying questions.

    • Not aligned: We’ll provide thoughtful referrals or guidance toward a better-suited team.

    We respect everyone’s time—including yours.

    Meetings & scheduling

    Due to active project commitments, all calls, Zoom meetings, and site visits are scheduled via email after initial review. This ensures focused conversations and productive use of time.

    Future work & long-term relationships

    Many of our clients return for additions, renovations, and new projects over time. We view each commission as the start of a long-term relationship, not a one-off transaction.

  • Not every project—or every client—is the right match. We believe great outcomes depend on alignment as much as talent.

    Spire Architecture Inc. may not be the best fit if:

    • You’re looking for the lowest-cost solution rather than the best long-term value

    • You want to skip planning and “figure it out during construction”

    • Design is viewed as decoration instead of a problem-solving discipline

    • Decisions need to be rushed without understanding their impact on cost, schedule, or quality

    • You prefer minimal involvement and little transparency during the process

    • You’re seeking a purely transactional relationship rather than a collaborative one

    We’re deeply invested in the projects we take on—and we expect the same level of engagement and respect for the process from our clients.

    When there’s strong alignment, the work is better, the experience is calmer, and the results speak for themselves.