Zeitgeist opened its West Coast office in 2001 after over 10 years of experience in both East and West Coast architecture and design firms. We are dedicated to achieving the highest quality of personalized residential, commercial, and interior design. Zeitgeist strives to provide a synthesis of European design principles while addressing the needs of the American lifestyle in a straightforward, service-oriented approach.
Zeitgeist Defined
The term zeitgeist translates from the German to "the spirit of the times". In the arts, this refers to the belief that design should continue to change and evolve. Rather than being coined for a particular style, our studio strives to synthesize prevalent design aesthetics with our clients' own personal styles. We are committed to continually educating ourselves about the latest in building and material technologies and the use of sustainable resources.
Our Unique Collaboration
The architect is trained to consider the structure as a whole: the massing, the proportions of volumes, the angles and roof-lines and the balance of each exterior elevation. The interior designer must consider these same issues from the inside: the flow of the spaces, their scale and functions; and the ergonomics of cabinetry and furniture assuring that the layout is specifically suited to the client's personal needs. By approaching a project as a unified entity, all issues from site design to the spatial flow to the furniture layout are considered in relationship to one another. This presents the client with a fusion of aesthetic and functional elements, providing the most comprehensive solution available. Our services are also available independent of one another.
We additionally bring the gift of our exposure to many different cultures and styles of living. We have had the good fortune to travel and study in North Africa, India, the Middle and Far East and throughout Europe. In each of these places we focused on learning about local building techniques, patterns of habitation, tectonics of the indigenous architecture, native crafts, artisan techniques, etc. We strive to use this breadth of knowledge in every project, as we continue to challenge the American paradigm of architecture and design.