MADISON — JLA Architects is pleased to welcome Carsen Nachreiner (RA) as a Project Architect in our Madison office. Carsen brings over 12 years of diverse architectural experience, ranging from historic restorations to high-rise mixed-use developments. A licensed architect since 2018, he has worked across a wide spectrum of project types, including multifamily housing, education, healthcare, religious, and civic facilities. His time practicing in both San Diego and Boston has given him a diverse understanding of regional design approaches, construction methods, and client needs.
As a Project Architect, Carsen will play a key role in technical detailing and collaborating with consultants and team members across JLA’s three offices, while also contributing to design development and quality assurance efforts.
Carsen’s multifaceted background in architecture, landscape architecture, and real estate development informs a holistic approach to design that balances functionality, context, and long-term value. His experience managing projects from schematic design through construction administration aligns seamlessly with JLA’s collaborative, client-centered approach.
Vice President & Madison Office Director, Leah Teske, had this to say about the addition of Carsen:
“Carsen’s well-rounded experience makes him an excellent addition to our growing Madison team, his technical expertise and passion for multifamily & mixed-use markets strengthen our ability to deliver projects that will positively impact our clients and communities.”
When asked why he joined JLA, Carsen explained, “I was excited by the opportunity to be part of a firm that is doing so much great work in Madison, Milwaukee — and across the nation!”
Originally from Wisconsin, Carsen earned his Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from the University of Wisconsin–Madison then went on to San Diego for his Master of Architecture from NewSchool of Architecture & Design. Outside of architecture, he’s also an avid real estate investor and developer.
Learn More About Carsen
What drew you to architecture?
A love for design and creativity that can have a lasting positive impact on people’s lives and environments
What’s your favorite (or most unique) project you’ve worked on and why?
A 6-block urban revitalization effort in San Diego’s East Village, called “Maker’s Quarter”. When I was in college, my architecture school was next to a blighted area with several vacant lots and warehouses.
I met the urban planner, who was attempting to revitalize the area, at a warehouse street-art show. I asked her about her strategy, and she said it was a series of urban arts and craft events, to give the neighborhood an identity, while marketing to developers and anchor tenants, to build on that theme.
The concept combined a lot of things I love – architecture, urban planning & revitalization, street art, DIY projects, real estate development, and marketing. I immediately asked if there was any way for me to be involved. A few weeks later, I was doing graphic support and coordination for a team of architects, planners, and real estate brokers, working on presentations to Target and Whole Foods.
Afterward, I served as a defacto liaison and promoter of the project’s events at my architecture school, getting other students involved in building furniture and art for maker’s fairs, film festivals, etc. The project was eventually completed with several successful buildings and a revitalized neighborhood.
What do you do for fun? Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
I stay busy with DIY projects and rental property rehab. I also enjoy traveling, studying, and visiting beautiful works of architecture.
Are you involved in the community? What causes mean the most to you?
In the past, I have participated in landscape preservation efforts at Taliesin and the International Crane Foundation.