Karin Johnson
Architect / Project Manager / Designer



Karin was originally drawn to architecture for its seemingly broad scope in understanding systems and synergy at both a macro and micro level. She is fascinated by the patterns of relationships, behaviors, influences and motivations within the social, political, environmental and individual landscape and how these hinder, enhance or generally contribute towards an outcome. Ideologically, she is inspired by the many writings of futurist, architect and inventor, Buckminster Fuller.

A natural seeker, Karin was born asking “why.” Beyond just challenging the status quo she sought deeper understanding of self, others and community. From a young age, she was particularly adept at creating spaces and projects using found, recycled and natural objects. She appreciates design solutions that are original, playful, innovative, resourceful and responsible.

Karin is inspired daily by the enthusiasm, curiosity and playful spirit of her almost 7 year old son. These days, she is discovering a growing interest in urban homesteading with backyard chickens and gardening. When she is not spending time adventuring with her husband and son, she loves learning and embodying the mysteries and magic of the seen and unseen universe. Most recently she is fascinated by learning Bio Geometry, in addition to continued studies in astrology.


All Staff

My wife and I hired Kurt Reinkens of MWA in 2005 after we purchased land to build a vacation home in the Lake Tahoe resort community of Lahontan. MWA was and still is, in our estimation, the top architectural firm in the Tahoe area, and our experience with MWA over the course of the design and construction of our home exceeded even our high expectations.

MWA is intimately familiar with the design standards in the area in general and in Lahontan in particular. It is clear that Lahontan's Design Review Board (LDRB) has developed a high degree of familiarity and trust with MWA, and this trust was integral to what ended up being a relatively smooth and hassle-free process with the LDRB. MWA was able to anticipate the needs of the LDRB and, in the few occasions were design modifications were recommended, come up with creative solutions that met those recommendations efficiently and cost-effectively.

MWA is also quite good with builders. Unlike some architects who design imaginary buildings that are extremely difficult or expensive to construct, MWAs designs, while innovative and always interesting, are practical and buildable. MWA was very involved with my builder throughout the construction process and worked to address his issues and questions in a timely manner.

Finally, the architectural aspects of our recently completed home are amazing. It seems that we notice new architectural features to the structure every time we visit our home. We couldn't be happier with the architecture of the structure, how the rooms and spaces are in synch with one another, how the house relates to the natural environment, and the window placements and rooflines, just to name a few aspects that stand out.

I would recommend MWA to anyone for these reasons. Our experience was overwhelmingly positive.


-- Caine Moss
Copyright © 2025 - All Rights Reserved