Michael Rex, Principal

Michael Rex was born in Iowa and grew up in the East Bay. He studied architecture at the College of Environmental Design at the University of California, Berkeley, and apprenticed under Donald Clever, a renowned San Francisco designer and muralist. It was with Mr. Clever that Michael gained his expertise in the use of color and light to enhance highly custom designs.

Following a brief partnership in a Berkeley architectural firm from 1975 to 1977, Michael and his wife, Shellei Addison, moved to a Sausalito houseboat, where Michael became the lead designer for EPDA - Environmental Planning and Design Associates and John O'Brien & Associates, two well-known Sausalito architectural firms. After developing a reputation of his own, he established his own firm in 1983 in a converted, historic Ice House. After donating the Ice House to the City of Sausalito for its Down Historic Display and Visitor Center, Michael moved his firm to its present waterfront location in 1997.

Michael is active in community projects and organizations as a member of the Rotary Club of Sausalito, and by serving on numerous Boards of non-profits which seek to preserve affordable housing and the working waterfront. Michael has developed a skill for designing within a broad range of architectural styles, coupled with the ability to get projects approved.

Rea Ashley, Senior Associate

Rea is a native San Franciscan and graduate of the College of Environmental Design at the University of California, Berkeley. After working for a variety of architectural firms in San Francisco, and enjoying the close collaboration found in a small office, he joined Michael Rex Associates in 1988 and received his architectural license the following year.

During his tenure with MRA, he has worked on a wide variety of project types, styles and sizes. His strong sense of organization, attention to detail and work experience are valuable qualities which he contributes to our office.

Michael Matsuura, Senior Associate

Michael has been with Michael Rex Associates since 1992 and has worked on a wide range of projects - varying in size and architectural styles. Michael's skilled design ability, acute attention to detail and diverse background are assets which contribute to the strength of the firm's staff.

Michael has a broad experience in the design and construction industries that includes working for a structural engineering firm, an interior designer and a local contracting company.

Michael is a native San Franciscan and a graduate of the College of Environmental Design at the University of California, Berkeley with a BA in Architecture.

Paolo Crescini, Associate

Paolo holds a Masters Degree in Architecture from the Italian Istituto Universitario di Architettura di Venezia. His work as a licensed Architect in Italy has ranged from renovations of centuries-old mansions to modern custom homes, furniture design, and interior architecture for commercial and residential use.

Since moving to the Bay Area in 1995, Paolo has broadened his experience working on high-end residential, multi-family homes, commercial buildings, and retail spaces. Paolo joined Michael Rex Associates in 2004, offering refined design skills, attention to details, knowledgeable use of colors and materials.

Nick Dragna, Associate

Nick joined Michael Rex Associates in 2004. He brings thoroughness, attention to detail and skillfull management to each project through all phases from conceptual design and planning to construction administration.

Nick began his career in Europe working in the office of Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas. He has subsequently worked in a number of large and small firms in the United States and Mexico (DF), focusing on commercial, high-end retail, custom residential and mixed-use projects.

Nick holds a Master of Architecture from Rice University and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from The Ohio State University.

Daniel Ruark, Associate

Daniel joined Michael Rex Associates in 2010. He possesses a broadly diverse background of experiences, having developed and completed projects including custom residential, churches, and academic structures. Daniel began his professional career with Taliesin Architects followed by a long association with Aaron Green, FAIA. Aaron Green was notably an apprentice to Frank Lloyd Wright and later served as Wright’s West Coast Representative after opening a joint office together in San Francisco. Daniel developed and refined his design and technical skills while working alongside Aaron Green.

Daniel holds a Master of Architecture degree from the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture and a Bachelor of Science in Design from the University of Cincinnati.

Mike Stankus, AIA, LEED AP, Associate

Mike joined Michael Rex Associates in 2004. A licensed architect since 1996, Mike has designed and managed projects ranging in size and type from large wineries to custom homes and interiors. He is imaginative, organized, and experienced in both architecture and construction. He has a passion for good design and a commitment to making the most out of every project.

Mike is a Bay Area native who holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon, and a Bachelor of Arts in Asian History from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Barbara A. Cavalier, Business Manager

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Barbara moved to California in 1975. Her professional background in the Bay Area includes working as Executive Assistant to the CEO of an international engineering firm and Office Manager for a large Santa Rosa based accounting firm. Barbara joined Michael Rex Associates in 1989. Her organizational skills and managerial experience have helped the firm's growth and profitability. Away from the office, Barbara enjoys spending time with her husband Hank at their home in Larkspur and playing her favorite sport, tennis. She is also active in her community at St. Patrick's Church.