A historic structure built in 1925 as a French laundry, recently renovated to recapture its original aesthetic personality, is the home to Sonoma’s newest design firm. Four local architects have joined to form STRATAap, a strategic design studio located at the corner of Third and West Napa Streets.
“We are very excited about our new space,” said Greg Donald, firm principal. “It’s unique to Sonoma, perfect in providing an environment for collaboration which is important for the kind of work we do.”
The remodel of the empty building included removing a false ceiling and a warren of dingy offices. The result created a soaring 16-foot ceiling with exposed wooden beams and, for the first time in 58 years, revealed the building’s distinctive semi-circular windows. The result is an open, surprisingly modern workspace.
“We have tried to express the bones of the building and keep important remnants to remind us of its past history,” Donald said.
Donald has more than 30 years experience in strategic planning, brand development, design, and implementation for corporate, retail, and automotive clients worldwide.
The firm’s other principals include David Rapp, AIA, with 30 years experience in programming, design, project and construction management on a variety of project types. Bennett Martin, has specialized over the last 20 years on project and construction management for all project types, while Brad Johnson, AIA, has been both design lead and project manager on projects for civic, retail, and residential clients.
Donald describes STRATAap as a dynamic team of architects and allied professionals that brings multi-layered disciplines, knowledge and innovation to every project. “We believe in a holistic approach to design,” he said.
A member of the U.S. Green Building Council with accredited LEED professionals, STRATAap places great importance on sustainability and green building principles.
In a cold market for commercial property rentals, building owner Francis Mathews has had immediate success with the 294 W. Napa St. property. STRATAap has leased about 60 percent of the commercial space, and two apartments on the second floor rented soon after listing in June.
The building’s remaining available space, which fronts West Napa Street, is currently used for art exhibits.
