Business Details
47 Years
experience
Custom Residential Architecture in Minneapolis
Founded in 1979, Tea 2 Architects is a residential architecture firm dedicated to crafting custom homes and renovations that blend timeless design with modern functionality. Our collaborative team of 21 professionals approaches each project with a commitment to innovation, environmental sensitivity, and meticulous attention to detail. With over four decades of experience, we have established ourselves as leaders in residential architecture, serving clients across North America.Our process prioritizes client collaboration, translating individual visions into spaces that exceed expectations while maintaining a deep respect for context and sustainability. Recognized nationally for our work, we remain focused on creating homes that clients cherish for a lifetime.
Services
Custom Homes
Home Renovations
Sustainable Design
Resort Retreats
Historic Preservation
Interior Architecture
Site Planning
Construction Documentation
Lighting Design
Cost Analysis
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in residential architecture.
- Our collaborative team approach ensures innovative, client-focused designs.
- We specialize in merging historical and modern architectural elements.
- Our work has received national recognition and awards.
- We prioritize environmentally sensitive and sustainable design practices.
What people say
Thrilled with their homes
Fresh, imaginative designs
National recognition for innovation
Environmentally sensitive approach
Collaborative team process
Services
Custom Homes
We design bespoke custom homes tailored to clients' lifestyles and site contexts. Our approach merges historical inspiration with modern functionality, ensuring timeless appeal. Each project emphasizes sustainability, spatial innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship to create spaces that evolve with homeowners' needs.
Home Renovations
Our renovation expertise transforms existing spaces while preserving architectural integrity. We specialize in updating historic homes and modernizing outdated structures. The process focuses on enhancing functionality, improving energy efficiency, and integrating contemporary amenities without compromising original character.
Sustainable Design
We incorporate environmentally responsible practices into every project. This includes energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and passive design strategies. Our team prioritizes minimizing environmental impact while creating healthy, comfortable living spaces that align with modern ecological standards.
Resort Retreats
We design retreats that harmonize with natural landscapes while providing luxurious comfort. These projects emphasize connection to surroundings through strategic window placement, outdoor living areas, and material selections that reflect regional character and climate considerations.
Historic Preservation
Our expertise extends to preserving historically significant structures while adapting them for modern living. We balance conservation of original features with contemporary updates, ensuring architectural heritage remains functional and relevant for future generations through careful material selection and code-compliant modifications.
People
Dan Nepp
Principal
Licensed architect since 1990, Dan has led award-winning projects featured in 75+ publications. He received the Ralph Rapson Traveling Fellowship and was named Architect of Distinction in 2008.
Leffert Tigelaar
Associate Principal
With expertise in residential architecture, Leffert brings international experience and a focus on craftsmanship. His work has earned multiple AIA awards, reflecting his commitment to design excellence and client satisfaction.
Steve Nordgaard
Associate
Steve has designed award-winning residences across eight states. His projects appear in Architectural Digest and the Not So Big Remodeling Book, demonstrating expertise in merging form with functional innovation.
Matthew Erickson
Associate
Specializing in blending contemporary and historic elements, Matthew has won Midwest Home Magazine awards. He focuses on spatial composition and natural material integration for contextually responsive designs.
Tom Ellison
Principal Emeritus
Founder of TEA Architects, Tom pioneered earth-sheltered housing research. His career spans five decades with recognition from AIA Minnesota and multiple design awards for innovative residential solutions.
Questions
What geographic areas do TEA2 Architects serve?
We work with clients across North America, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, and several other states.
What architectural styles does TEA2 specialize in?
We don't adhere to a single style, instead creating designs that reinterpret historical and modern influences tailored to each client's vision and site context.
How does TEA2 approach sustainable design?
Sustainability is integrated through energy-efficient systems, passive solar design, locally sourced materials, and construction methods that minimize environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic quality.
Can TEA2 handle both new construction and renovations?
Yes, we specialize in both custom homes and renovations, with extensive experience preserving historic structures while modernizing functionality and comfort.
What sets TEA2 apart from other architecture firms?
Our collaborative process, 40+ years of residential expertise, and commitment to creating timeless, site-specific homes that evolve beautifully over time distinguish our approach.
How are project costs managed during design?
We incorporate cost analysis throughout the process, working closely with clients to align design decisions with budgets while maintaining architectural integrity and quality standards.
