Associated Housewrights

Matt received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at Iowa State University and began his career in machine design in a manufacturing setting. While interesting, Matt’s lifelong interest in more aesthetically focused design pursuits resulted in his migration towards the skilled trades;  furniture, cabinetry and residential design and construction.

While in the Washington D.C. area, Matt gained valuable experience and mentoring as a craftsperson and designer.   Particularly influential were his experiences at  Lank Woodwork and Kramer & Eiland Woodworking which included work on the National Cathedral, the Blair House, IBM Corporate commissions and many superb private commissions.

After Matt moved back to the Midwest, he started his own residential design-build firm in Madison Wisconsin and in 1992 he joined forces with previous collaborators as a founding member of Associated Housewrights.

Matt’s work as a designer has been recognized on a local and national level.  His blend of technical and aesthetic interests in addition to strong problem solving skills have proven very effective in the residential design-build industry positively influencing end product quality as well as operational effectiveness.

Brian began building furniture at age sixteen inspired by the life and work of his grandfather. A strong functional aesthetic and knowledge of wood structural characteristics informs all Brian’s work. He has been employed as an independent carpenter and craftsman, exhibiting his work as an artisan at Art Fair on the Square, and the Audubon Art Fair at Madison’s Olbrich Gardens. Brian currently enjoys handcrafting wooden boats for paddle and sail.

Brian graduated from Penn State with dual degrees: a BS in Mechanical Engineering, and Barch Architecture, both with high distinction. Brian also received the School of Architecture’s Creative Achievement award. His graduate study was at the UW-Madison Solar Energy Lab, where he earned a MS in Mechanical Engineering-Solar Energy with honors.

For fifteen years, Brian owned his own design/build company where he designed and built a wide range of custom remodeling and new construction projects, including a new solar home completely off the power grid. Brian joined Associated Housewrights in 2000 as a Project Manager and Production Engineer.

Meri Tepper joined Associated Housewrights as Director of Design in the summer of ’17 after collaborating with the Housewrights the previous 3 years on multiple residential remodeling projects.  Meri Tepper is a Registered Architect in Wisconsin and New York. She worked with the NYC office of Ryall Porter Sheridan Architects from 2004-2014.  Meri  is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Madison Area Builder’s Association.

Meri is an equally talented creative and technical architect.  As a LEED AP and Certified Passive House Designer, Meri’s designs embrace current building science and energy efficient construction techniques.

Meri studied at the University of Virginia.  She  received her Master of Architecture Degree in 2004 and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture in 2001.

Meri’s career began with 18 months in Europe working for the Danish Institute for Study Abroad.  She planned and guided architectural study tours throughout Scandinavia, Germany, Switzerland and France. During this time she developed an academic interest in alternative housing typologies,energy efficient building construction, and the modern Scandinavian style.

Meri’s master’s thesis, titled Sited in the Setback, proposed doubling the density of first ring suburbs like Levittown NY with the use of prefabricated accessory dwelling units.  Her thesis work received awards in the 2010 Build a Better Burb Competition sponsored by the Long Island Index, and the 2005 Boston Society of Architects In Pursuit of Housing Competition.

Committed to leadership development and mentoring, Meri was the 2011 recipient of the Women in Architecture AIA NY Committee Recognition Award.

Michael is a lifelong native of Madison graduating from East High and then achieving an Architectural Technology degree from MATC.  Micheal’s previous work experiences were with larger commercial design and build firms in drafting, estimating, cabinetry and construction management.  He’s also served digital marketing / seo roles.

Michael joined the Housewrights the spring of ’15 and is currently a Project Manager estimating and managing individual client remodeling and addition projects.

Michael keeps busy away from the Housewrights with his family of 5, coaching basketball, spending time in the out-of-doors, reading, enjoying music and movies.

Steve’s been a focused residential construction industry pro since 2000 filling a number of roles from the job site to material distribution.   From swinging a hammer to managing projects Steve’s variety of experience gives him a broad perspective, strong problem solving skills and a ‘can do’ attitude.  Prior to entering the building trades Steve studied at Luther College (General Studies) and UW Stout (School of Industrial Technology) each providing additional foundation to his current endeavors.

Steve joined the Housewrights the summer of ’15 and is currently a Project Manager estimating and managing individual client projects from remodels to new home building.

Beyond work Steve enjoys his time with his family, camping and playing guitar.