ABOUT DESIGN GROUP STUDIO:
Design Group Studio is a collaboration between Design Group Architects and Mussa & Associates. We have been working as Design Group Studio since 2023, and are are excited to bring the best of our previous practices into our new work together.
Design Group Architects began practicing in Sedona in 1981, creating diverse architecture rooted in the Southwestern landscape. Mussa & Associates was established in Sedona in 2004, and built a strong reputation based on modern design with a Southwestern sensibility. We all have a passion for sustainable design and spaces that are both functional and inspirational. We understand context, both in natural and urban settings, and have been involved in local and regional community planning processes. We care deeply about nature, and observation of its patterns helps inform our sense of design.
Our team approach to creative design involves clients directly in the process. We listen carefully and respond to your ideas and requirements. We create multiple options for each phase of a project, enabling you to make truly informed choices. We pay attention to detail. To maximize service and success, we handle most aspects of each project ourselves.
DESIGN PROCESS:
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The initial stage of design encapsulates an analysis of primary viewsheds, topographical features, existing tree locations, prevailing winds, and sun angels for summer & winter.
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Using the site analysis and client feedback, the team explores multiple iterations in plan to better understand how spaces relate to each other and the site.
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The final bubble diagram is taken to 1/8” scale, where we begin to add windows, doors, and furniture. Exterior elevations and 3D mockups help us begin to visualize the design.
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Plans, elevations, and structural drawings are brought to 1/4” scale and further developed.
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The final set of drawings include a site plan, dimensioned floor plans, building elevations, sections, construction details, cabinet elevations, specifications, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and structural drawings.
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Our team oversees the construction to ensure compliance with design drawings, contracts, budget and schedule. We are available every step of the way to ensure a successful project completion.
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We offer interior design services to provide a seamless design language between final finishes and the architectural forms.
THE TEAM:
Max Licher
Licensed Architect
Bachelors in Architecture, UCLA Berkeley
Max studied architecture and environmental design at the University of California in Berkeley, and worked for a number of the following years in design-build construction. He has been a partner in Design Group Architects since obtaining his architectural license in 1987. He and his wife Clare have raised a family here in Sedona, and he has been involved in both professional and volunteer community planning efforts over the years in our community. He is also passionate about botany and nature photography, and is known as an expert on the local flora of the region.
max@designgroupsedona.com
Simone Mussa
Bachelors in Industrial Design, Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale
Simone was born in Turin, Italy. After graduating from Architectural High School, he pursued his dream to move to the U.S. to study architecture. While searching for the best architectural program he came across an Industrial Design Program. His decision was made; “why design only buildings when I can design anything”. After being awarded best portfolio, he worked for prominent design firms in Miami and New York. Starting as a product designer, he evolved into interior design and finally project management. In 2003 he and his wife Aisha moved to Sedona. After briefly working for a NY based architectural firm they opened Mussa + Associates, a design firm focusing on architecture, interiors and product design. After 20 years on his own Simone merged with Design Group Architecture to form Design Group Studio.
simone@designgroupsedona.com
Jennifer Aderhold Wilson
Bachelors in Interior Design, Northern Arizona University
Jennifer has been working as a designer in Sedona since 1992. She is a graduate of Northern Arizona University where she received her bachelors degree in interior design with a dual major in arts management, and a minor in business. Upon Graduating, Jennifer lead a career in the art world in Scottsdale, establishing and managing 2 galleries. In 1991 she moved to Sedona and began a career in interior design with Design Group Architects. She loves working on custom projects with the various trades people in our area and abroad. In 2011 she married Trent Wilson, a master craftsman and builder. She has 2 step children with Trent that she cherishes. She enjoys time with her family both in Sedona and Colorado, hiking and paddle boarding, and taking care of Cinderella their GSP.
jen@designgroupsedona.com
Johnathan Christopher Pfeiffer
3 Yr Apprenticeship at Taliesen West
Self Taught; inspired by the work of:
Frank Lloyd Wright
John Lautner
Eero Saarinen, Louis
Kahn, Alvar Aalto
A. Quincy Jones
Howard Roark
Wallace Cunningham
Carlo Riva
Heather Schaffnit
Bachelors in Environmental Design, Montana State University
Heather is a young apprentice with a background in architecture and lighting design. Her creative passion extends beyond the office into her upcycling apparel brand, the Chaos Closet. Eager to grow under a team of talented individuals, Heather works at every level of design with a hands-on approach and skilled artistic eye.