Steve Nuetzel, Architect
Steve Nuetzel designs buildings that look like they belong to the land they sit on. His work is modernist in discipline, organic in feel, and built around a simple conviction: indigenous materials, honestly rendered, will always outlast trend.
For more than 40 years, Nuetzel has shaped homes and rural structures across the Pacific Northwest, from the north shore of Lake Tahoe to the northeastern corner of Washington and well beyond. Each project carries the same signature, structural expression you can read at a glance, with detail you keep noticing the longer you stay.
In 2025, he founded Cascadia Barn Designs to open his four-decade catalog directly to homeowners. The intent is straightforward: bring serious architecture to property owners who want something built with intention, not pulled from a stock plan library.
Nuetzel holds a Bachelor of Architecture from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where he studied under Craig Ellwood. His work draws on the influence of Fay Jones, Arthur Erickson, Ellwood, and John Andre Gougeon, with whom he worked closely for many years.
He considers himself a modernist.
The buildings make the case.
Testimonials
“We remodeled our Sunriver home during the pandemic, but we were able to count on our architect, Steve Nuetzel. He made the transition from the original footprint to the new one flow smoothly.”
– Eagle Cap Lane 2020
“We absolutely LOVE the work Steve did for us.”
– Elk Lane 2023
“We love how the project turned out. Steve was very professional and id a great job.”
– Crag Lane 2023
“The house turned out awesome, thank you so much for your help with the design and especially the Design Committee.”
– Lowland Lane 2024
“We are so happy with the new space. Thanks, Steve! Great job!”
– Pine Mountain Lane 2024
“Thank you once again for building upon our vision for the renovation of our home. The functionality of the storage room, deck, great room and our master suite has exceeded our expectations and meets our needs on a daily basis whether it’s just the two of us or family and friends visit.”
– Rager Mountain Lane 2024
“Mr. Nuetzel and the crew from Cascadia Barn Designs designed and built the barn on our rural property in 2020. The auto shop downstairs and the large loft suit our needs perfectly, and we love all the natural light we have.”
– Sharp Drive 2020