Atmosphere Design Build was established in 2008 by husband and wife team, David Good and Mela Breen. In 2009 Daniel Guyer (Mela’s father) joined us, making Atmosphere Design Build a family endeavor. The firm is founded on an impassioned desire to create authentic structures that are built in a conscientious and sustainable manner. As a design + build firm we take a holistic approach to the process of creating structures and we work in a collaborative manner with all the stake holders from the outset of the design process. The design + build model provides continuity, eliminating gaps in communication and responsibility, as we are responsible from start to finish. This method of designing and building provides the client with a comprehensive and integrated service.
The notion of sustainability is NOT a marketing ploy for us.
In our business we are constantly evaluating our impact on the planet and trying to minimize our foot print. On a personal level, the principals of sustainability are paramount to us as we hope to leave an inheritance to our child and his generation that is viable. As outdoor athletes (in our spare time) we have spent much of our lives in the wilds of this planet and hope to help stay their destruction.
Mela Z. Breen, LEED AP, Principal Designer. As a designer Mela’s work is distinguished by an attention to detail, thoughtful innovative solutions, and an ability to meld the aesthetics of modern architecture with designs that are specific to place. Mela has a diverse background, which she draws upon to give her designs a breadth and depth. Her “hands-on” construction experience informs the design decisions she makes, as she is always keeping an eye on how things can best be built. A deep interest in how buildings can be in relation to their surrounding landscape is born from years spent exploring the natural environment (as a whitewater kayaker, backcountry skier, and gardener). She is particularly interested in the tie between the local and the global, and how these connections are played out through design and construction. Mela’s formal higher education began at Reed College, where she studied English Literature, became a writer, and fine tuned critical thinking skills. She went on to study architecture and holds a Bachelors of Environmental Design, major in Architecture, from University of Colorado, Boulder.
David M. Good, Sustainable Builder. Dave is a well rounded and seasoned craftsman with experience in all phases of construction. He is a problem solver with broad knowledge of mechanical systems, materials, and building science. He loves taking on new challenges and is always reeducating himself on current technologies and techniques. Dave is particularly interested in creating high performance buildings, which require little to no energy to heat or cool, and he maintains a rigorous level craftsmanship on his projects to achieve these goals. As a field supervisor he provides solid communication and leadership to keep the building team productive and positive. In the shop Dave makes custom cabinets, furniture, and handmade skis. When not working, he can be found hanging out with his new son, whitewater kayaking, exploring mountain bike trails, or skiing the backcountry. Dave holds a Bachelors of Science in Geological Engineering, minor in Environmental Science, from the Colorado School of Mines. Dave is a Build It Green, Certified Green Building Professional.
Daniel J. Guyer, Managing Officer. Dan has nearly 40 years of experience as a master craftsman. His expertise spans everything from fine furniture construction to heavy equipment operation. Whether it is Japanese joinery or barn styles of the west, Dan’s knowledge of building techniques and history is encyclopedic. His range of experience and depth of knowledge is a rare asset. He also has an approach to sustainability that is acutely tuned to conservation of all types of resources, financial as much as environmental. He is always looking for the most cost effective and least consumptive solutions for the client. As the managing officer, Dan is instrumental in keeping our projects on time and on budget. Dan has lived in the Sierra Foothills since the early 70’s, where was the owner-operator of one of the first organic apple orchards in the state. He has held his CA Contractors License since 1985.
Read more about our services and approach to sustainability.
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