ABOUT
THE STUDIO
Mary Dooley and Chris Lynch, Principals, have dedicated themselves to the art and process of architectural design for 30 years. Along with their talented team, they apply their depth of experience to the design of houses, wineries, work places, hospitality and health care spaces, restoration, and interior design. This intimate design practice has resulted in happy clients and well built, award winning projects primarily in Marin, Napa and Sonoma Counties.
The partners met at U.C. Berkeley’s College of Environmental Design when the education of architecture and design presented a contrast of ecological approaches and stylistic solutions. This debate helped strengthen the partner’s resolve and design mission – to create beautiful spaces for people in harmony with nature. During the design process, the solution is found by integrating purpose while discovering the nature of the place itself.
Facing world challenges at home we must re-imagine how to work, live and play together (and apart) in communities built on mutual respect and fairness. This vision is integral to our design approach and our relationships.
Partial Client List
Bodega Marine Laboratory
Brewsters Beer Garden
City of Petaluma
Farmhouse Artisan Market
Flying Goat Coffee
Kenwood Vineyards
Petaluma Arts Center
Petaluma Fire Department
Rodney Strong Winery
Sebastiani Winery
Taylor Lane Coffee
Traditional Medicinals
SOMO Village
UC Davis
Ukiah Natural Foods Co-Op


Chris grew up in San Francisco and was always sketching/ cartooning during parochial school much to the consternation of the nuns. He continued his passion for drawing with a degree from UC Berkeley in architecture and now has 30 years behind him of original design solutions. With over 100 residential projects in Marin and Sonoma, Chris’ recent neighborhood project is attracting attention as a solution to single family homes with community. His approach to design starts with the site where the solution is exposed rather than imposed. Free from any preconceived architectural baggage, and an emphasis on honest materials, the results are authentic, warm and sometimes playful. For fun, (and peace of mind) he’ll be found at the gym, running or mountain biking. At home…reading or sketching.
Chris Heath
Owen Walthard took an unconventional path into architecture. With a degree in mathematics and computer science, he self-taught in architectural drafting and 3D rendering software, which enabled him to build up a portfolio of designs that opened the door to a career in architecture. At MAD, Owen collaborates closely with the team to transform their designs into detailed 3D models, CAD drawings, and realistic renderings. Outside of work Owen can likely be found climbing a rock, camping, or taking care of his elderly dog, Fargo.
Baloo joined the office in summer of 2016 with no skills other than general cuteness. Since his internship with MAD he has learned to gently greet clients and colleagues, quietly stay in his place and provide the studio with an outlet for playfulness. Skills include leaping ball catch, sliding ball catch, goalie, and receiver of attention. Newest tricks: backpacking and bear protection.