Kevin Chappell
Principal Engineer



Education: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Texas Tech University
Master of Science in Structural Engineering, Texas Tech University

Registrations: Structural Engineer - California, Professional (Civil) Engineer - Colorado, Nevada, Utah

Experience: Over 20 years including 15+ years in the Truckee-Tahoe area.

As a native Texan, Kevin grew up in the heat and wind. His graduate studies emphasized wind effects on structures and he worked for the Wind Engineering Research Center during his time at Texas Tech. Since moving to the Tahoe-area in 2005, Kevin has gained expertise in snow and seismic design. Kevin has a strong background in structural engineering analysis, design, and consulting in the residential, commercial, institutional, and hospitality sectors. He has a depth of knowledge in building design with a focus on high-end custom homes. Kevin’s designs are well thought-out, practical, and sustainable, and he strives for the structure to reflect an architectural aesthetic with detailed craftsmanship and contextual responsiveness. Kevin has extensive experience with conventional construction materials such as steel, concrete, masonry, and wood as well as less traditional materials and construction. He has designed structures throughout western North America from the Arctic Circle to Mexico, and his ability to consider and incorporate environmental interaction into his designs results in superior structural performance.


All Staff

At Spirit Interior Design, we have had the pleasure on numerous occasions to work with Kurt Reinkens and the team at MWA, Inc. Each time the collaboration has culminated in dynamic, successful projects that not only relay the creative talents of the architects, but are sensitive to the needs our clients. We have been thoroughly impressed in MWA’s ability to provide architectural services in a professional, timely fashion while always being mindful of the project budget. They possess the unique ability to skillfully facilitate and coordinate work between design team members, contractors, the building trades, consultants, and the end users.

MWA’s clear and concise communication skills and solid project administration have made our collaborations with their office smooth and efficient. Familiar with the politics and issues local to the Tahoe region, Kurt and his team have a proven track record in representing their clients’ interests in a variety of settings. Their team is motivated, well-organized, and possess the ability to move though issues as they arise, and simply “make things happen.” They appear at ease in a leadership role, frequently attaining the best work from their consultants, and understand that great design doesn’t happen in a vacuum. While one senses a certain amount of pride in their design skills, we have seen first-hand their ability to set aside personal ego, and work toward enhancing the team. I count this among their greatest assets.

Of course, a primary reason one hires an architect is to help make a building project a reality in the most creative, aesthetically appealing way possible. At this, MWA truly shines. Their experienced design staff is “top notch,” and is especially adept at creating spaces that are both energetic and harmonious while relating design elements and concepts to the existing environment and site conditions.

It is my opinion that if you choose to work with MWA, Inc., you will be virtually assured a successful project and, by way of getting there, a professional, quality service from one of the best design firms in the region.


-- Spirit Interior Design
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