My Background

The desire to start Zehnder Built was the merging of my hands-on experience in residential construction and remodeling, my education in architecture, and my long ago childhood memories.  Ever since I was a little kid growing up in rural Michigan, I had a wonder of both nature and the built environment in houses and buildings. I was always building something - a mini city in the sandbox, a cathedral out of wooden blocks, or a secret fort high up in the trees.

After studying architecture, traveling abroad, and moving to Seattle, I took up a position in a cabinet shop where I mastered my woodworking skills by constructing works with fine detail and precision.  During this time, I began to experiment with found materials and recycling/reusing architectural elements to create one-of-kind pieces of furniture. Eventually, I ventured into residential remodeling, working for some of the best contractors in Seattle; where I had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects both in size, design, and budget.  Over the past 20 years I have been able to collaborate and forge strong relationships with many respected craftsman, architects, suppliers, and tradesmen.