about us
Raumfabrik architecture + interiors is a Berkeley based architecture and interior design firm. Founded in 2013 by German born architect Antje Paiz, the company's primary focus is on high-end residential projects in the greater Bay Area. Completed works include ground up constructions of custom homes, residential remodels and additions, as well as several small scale commercial projects. Our approach is both client focused and collaborative, recognizing the unique requirements of each individual and every location. We believe that successful designs are born from a balance of form, function and light, rather than strict adherence to any particular style. This thinking translates into uncompromisingly logical floor plans, clean compositions and careful modulation of texture and light. Working with a limited materials palette of often bright, warm toned natural materials we create homes that are light filled and inviting. A clear hierarchy of scale provides opportunities for intimate moments as well as dramatic ones. Our goal is to enhance our clients' spatial experience and create structures that will withstand the test of time and be cherished for generations to come. At Raumfabrik, we believe design should be adaptive, transformative, and responsive to the needs of the moment. With buildings accounting for roughly 40% of the global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and roughly 25% of emissions here in California (with 10-15% coming from the residential sector alone), Architects will play a critical role in both promoting and designing a fossil fuel free future. In light of this, we approach each project with energy efficiency, decarbonization, and better building practices in mind. We encourage our clients to consider simple, affordable, and low carbon alternatives to conventional systems, and push for superior construction standards to deliver high performance healthy homes. A successful project is testament of the effective collaboration between all members on the team. At Raumfabrik we cultivate enduring and strong relationships with many skilled and trusted design professionals, contractors and manufacturers. We rely on these connections and value their expertise as we thrive to create an efficient, transparent and enjoyable project experience for our clients.
We are a full service studio, thriving to support your project at every step along the way. Our services include:
pre-purchase consulting
master planning
feasibility studies
conceptual design & space planning
presentation drawings & 3D renderings
green building design
project management
construction documents
construction administration
cabinetry design
material & finishes selections
furniture layout & specifications
procurement
our team
Antje Paiz principal architect Antje was born in Germany and spent her childhood in France near the Swiss border. She discovered her passion for architecture early on in life, endlessly drawing floor plans and re-arranging furniture. After high school she didn't immediately follow her dreams, but rather enrolled at the University of Konstanz in Germany to study Economics. Several years later, having studied in Konstanz, Heidelberg and Florence, and having completed a Master in Economics degree, she finally came to her senses and enrolled in the School of Architecture at University of Oregon in Eugene. Upon graduating with a Master in Architecture in 2000, Antje moved to the Bay Area where she lives with her husband, son and cat. Antje spent the first decade of her professional career working for boutique design firms, honing her design skills and learning about every aspect of the profession. In 2013, for one semester, she taught a class on "Color, Perception and Space" at Academy of Art University in San Francisco. That same year she founded Raumfabrik architecture + interiors with the goal of creating homes that are functional as well as beautiful and are built to withstand the test of time. Having lived and studied in several countries, Antje brings to the table a genuine interest in connecting with people from all over the world.
Jennifer Asselstine senior architect Jennifer grew up on the Mississippi River in Wisconsin and “came the long way around” to land in California. After graduating from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Architecture she was immersed in commercial, institutional and multi-residential architectural projects in Baltimore, MD. She attended the Architectural Association in London and spent 10 years abroad in the UK, Malaysia, and Australia where her practice evolved to residential design projects while exploring the globe with her young family. Upon return to the US, Jennifer combined her practice with teaching. For 10 years Jennifer directed the Undergraduate Architecture program at the Academy of Art University creating a vibrant, hands-on, design focused community of students and educators. She is passionate about collaboration, effective communication and sustainable design. When she is not serving clients, she can be found in the ceramic studio, writing, or hiking on Mount Tam close to her home in San Anselmo.
Jonathan Heuer project manager A native of southwestern Pennsylvania, Jonathan attended University of California, Berkeley earning a Bachelors of Arts in Architecture from the College of Environmental Design, and a minor in German. After graduation he worked in architecture for a number of years before taking a brief hiatus to explore his other passion: music. Along the way he found himself teaching math and architecture and coaching at a private high school in Berkeley, CA before coming back to architecture full time. He is excited to be back in the design world and exploring all it has to offer. When not at work, he can be found playing his guitar, working out, drinking too much coffee, and spending quality time with his partner and their dog.
Rochelle Arucan office manager Rochelle Arucan, A Bay Area native, is a seasoned professional with over ten years of multifaceted experience across operations, human resources, and marketing domains. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for efficiency, Rochelle has honed her skills in streamlining processes to optimize organizational effectiveness. Her career trajectory has traversed diverse sectors, including hospitality, logistics, education, event management, and the arts, reflecting her adaptability and versatility. Notably, Rochelle has also delved into the realm of leadership development, crafting bespoke training modules that empower individuals to unlock their full potential. Beyond her professional endeavors, Rochelle is a true artist at heart, finding solace and expression through painting and photography. This innate creativity fuels her artistic pursuits and permeates her approach to customer relations, effortlessly fostering connections and delivering exceptional experiences. Rochelle's passion for innovation and her innate ability to blend analytical thinking with creative flair sets her apart as a valuable asset in any endeavor she undertakes.