our studio
Cathexes is a full-service architecture and design firm based in Reno, Nevada, creating thoughtful places throughout the West and beyond. We let clients see who we are, so they can trust us with who they are.
Invested in every idea
- EST. 1985
- RENO, NEVADA
- 40+ years of practice
- 150+ projects
- NV · CA · WA · CO · FL
Founded in 1985, Cathexes is a Reno-based architecture firm providing planning, architectural design, documentation, and project coordination across a broad range of public and private clients.
Our name reflects the way we approach our work. Cathexis means the investment of mental or emotional energy in a person, object, or idea: from the Greek kathexis, to hold. For us, that means bringing genuine curiosity, attention, and commitment to every client, community, and project.
Over four decades, our portfolio has grown to include multifamily and mixed-use developments, custom homes, commercial and industrial spaces, resorts, master-planned communities, civic projects, and other places where people live, work, gather, and connect.
Broad experience. A deeply personal approach.
No two projects arrive with the same opportunities or constraints. Our breadth of experience allows us to see each one from multiple perspectives while developing a solution specific to its purpose, people, and place.
From complex urban developments and community-focused projects to custom residences and destination environments, we combine design thinking with the technical knowledge required to carry ideas from early planning through construction.
multifamily and mixed-use
01residential and custom homes
02commercial and industrial
03civic and community
04hospitality and resort
05master planning
06
A studio built around collaboration
Cathexes brings together architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers with varied backgrounds and complementary expertise. We work as one team—sharing ideas, questioning assumptions, and building on one another's strengths.
That collaborative culture extends beyond our studio. We value lasting relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and community partners, because meaningful architecture is never created in isolation.
meet our teamRooted in Reno. Designed for a diverse landscape.
Our work is grounded in the landscapes and communities of Reno, Lake Tahoe, and the greater West, with architectural licensure in Nevada, California, Washington, Colorado, and Florida.
Working across different climates, settings, and project types has strengthened our ability to respond thoughtfully to context, whether a project belongs in an established neighborhood, an evolving urban district, a mountain environment, or a growing community.
More than forty years of work has taught us that lasting architecture begins with attention: to people, place, and possibility.
Let's create something worth holding onto.
Every project begins with a conversation. Tell us what you are planning, where you are in the process, and what's at stake in getting it right.