Douglas Burnham is an architect and entrepreneur, designing buildings, environments and strategic solutions for individuals and communities. A practicing architect for over 25 years, he founded Envelope in 2002 to create a collaborative setting for the production of meaningful works of architecture, design and public space. Douglas’s pioneering work applying interim activations as a means of community engagement has earned him widespread recognition. He is a past chair of the SFMOMA Architecture + Design Forum, and currently serves on the Headlands Center for the Arts Audience Engagement Committee.

Architect Lex Phelan studied and practiced abroad before joining Envelope. Here she has focused on projects involving sensitive cultural contexts and natural habitats, such as Radhaus, a restaurant within the historic Fort Mason Center, and a vision plan for the Headlands Center for the Arts. Her global perspective informs her interest in a sensory approach to architecture, recognizing the potential of the built environment to enhance physiological and emotional well-being among occupants.

The child of a metal sculptor, Ben took an early interest in the techniques of artistic form and material expression, but his path to architecture took a few turns. After completing an interdisciplinary degree in Environmental Studies from Oberlin College, Ben returned to his native Philadelphia and built skills in construction, initially through a year of service with Habitat for Humanity. Equally concerned with the social and technical aspects of architecture, he earned a Master of Architecture from California College of the Arts after moving to San Francisco.

Cassiopea is a designer focused on the way the built environment can play a role in social justice and reform, inspired by the seemingly invisible spaces that can bring people together. She earned her Bachelors of Architecture at California College of the Arts, focusing her education on urban and community design while working in conjunction with various nonprofit agencies, both at home and abroad. She continues to work within her local community, volunteering with organizations fighting to end homelessness and food scarcity. At Envelope, she has deepened her investment into community placemaking with the West Oakland Gateway, Safe Passage Park, and Octavia Historic Commemorative projects.

Natthakanya (Namtan or Tan) was born and raised in Thailand, where she received her Bachelor of Architecture from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology, Ladkrabang. Through her travels and living abroad, Namtan has built an interest in the relationship between people’s activities, local culture and the built environment. She earned her Master of Advanced Architectural Design: Urban Works degree from CCA.

Tali grew up on an artists’ commune in rural Sonoma County, but escaped to attend UC Berkeley, earning a degree in economics followed by a Masters in Education from Mills College. There she became a passionate teacher and teacher educator. She went on to run the business end of a metal fabrication shop where she learned about design and construction. She joined Envelope in 2015, where she helps to manage the firm’s complex finances.

Working within the contexts of Industrial Design, Graphic Design, and Craft, Reed brings a custom, hands-on, analog approach to design, rich in physical mockups and handmade products. As an employee at Envelope, Reed creates selective interventions within many different projects, with a focus on creating objects that are compelling in their optical or tactile experience. Reed has a passion for investigations involving color and has become a master at printing with the office Risograph. Notably, Reed is also roommates with a lovely black rabbit named Dr. Bunsen.

Lara is an interdisciplinary artist, and journalist was born in Gaza City, Palestine, now based in California. She embraces the human perspective through visual storytelling; her work explores the social and political narratives for refugees and marginalized communities. She now serves at ENVELOPEAD as our Media Coordinator.

Artem has been our longtime projectionist. We are looking forward to his ongoing involvement in the day-to-day management of PROXY and his added expertise in the production of our bi-annual film festival.

An experienced craftsman, custom furniture fabricator and design consultant, Julian aims to find design solutions where the worlds of craft, material and function align. He serves as Envelope's go to fabricator, creator, and corgi herder.