Brian Starr
The son of an architect, Brian has always noticed and appreciated how architects get to engage their creative, artistic, aesthetic sides as well as their number crunching, scientific sides. The balance suits Brian well.
One of two founding partners of Studio Design Group, Brian brings decades of design experience and knowledge about a diverse range of building types to his leadership position. His team counts on his innate ability to foster collaboration and guide idea generation. Brian has been working on OSHPD-1 projects since the 1990s, and is currently focusing on healthcare design services that improve health delivery processes. Away from the studio, Brian enjoys racquetball, sailing, and “off the beaten track” traveling. Brian received a Bachelors of Architecture degree from California Polytechnic State University. He is a member of the National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB) and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP). He has served on the San Luis Obispo Architectural Review Commission and the Cuesta College Architectural Advisory Board.
Tim Ronda
Tim's interest in architecture began deep in the evergreen cathedrals of the Santa Cruz mountains. Salvaged rough sawn siding, a rope ladder, fishing net hammocks and the breath of wet redwoods provided the raw materials for elaborate trees houses and led to a passion for well-crafted structures.
Since co-founding Studio Design Group with Brian, Tim has collaborated on the design of a wide range of projects, including innovative health care facilities, fine hotels, landmark commercial buildings and authentic residential neighborhoods. Tim's technical knowledge and ability to see critical details assure that the final building design is true to the design intent and a long-lasting asset for the firm’s clients. Tim's ability to understand and navigate the regulatory processes and integrate new building technologies are crucial for successful projects. Tim enjoys coordinating with project team members and revels in resolving design and construction challenges. Tim obtained a Bachelor of Architecture and Minor in Philosophy from Cal Poly in 1983 and is a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP). Off-line Tim likes to hang out with his wife Sandra and two teenagers, polish his finger-picking guitar licks, run the family Border Collie around the block, and finish his latest building project: Sandra's contemporary art studio. Tim serves on the SLO Classical Academy School Board and in various capacities at Grace Church SLO.
Ellen Adamson Goodwin
Bringing a broad background to the firm, Ellen has design experience ranging from custom residences and high-end athletic clubhouses to mixed-use and commercial projects. After 15 years in the field, she still finds intrigue in each step of the design process and loves that there is always something new to learn in every project. She is passionate about residential design, mixed-use redevelopments, and affordable housing. Away from the drafting table, Ellen enjoys camping and hiking in Big Sur as well as volunteering for non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity and Brighten a Corner. Ellen earned her Bachelors of Architecture from California Polytechnic State University and is a California licensed architect as well as a LEED Accredited Professional with a specialty in Building Design + Construction. Ellen is also a member of Leadership SLO Class XX.
Aron Kahn
Ariana Melendez
Gabrielle Signorella
Corey Templeton
Megan Hanck
Megan’s adept understanding of architectural details and enthusiasm for how psychology impacts design makes her a valuable addition to Studio Design Group Architects. While earning her Bachelors of Architecture from Cal Poly, Megan was selected to participate in the San Francisco Urban Design Program where she experienced integrating master planning and architecture while sharpening professional practice skills. Today Megan is pursuing licensure and expanding her portfolio in sustainable building design. As a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, Megan also helps with excavation, framing, and electrical work across California construction sites.
Macy Mockford
Originally an Oakland native, Macy brings a fresh perspective, curiosity, and years of experience in adaptive problem solving to our team. Macy thrives on creative collaboration, and her fascination for the human factor in architecture makes her a key resource when it comes to meeting the needs of the end user. Macy’s career began at Cal Poly where she received her degree in architecture, and she is taking her first step into the field with us here at Studio Design Group.
Cathy Marez Silva
David Brannon
An ability to think like both a designer and a builder made David a valuable asset to our team for 28 years. Licensed in 1980 after earning his Bachelor Architecture degree from Cal Poly, he’s been able to experience his favorite part of being an architect countless times—the moment when he first views a finished building. While David is now retired, his indelible influence on our team continues to impact our vision today. Our family at Studio Design Group Architects is so grateful for the years of talent and friendship David shared with us.