Sep 2025
Shade Architects Celebrates 3 Years in Business
Shade Architects is hitting year three, and I'm excited to keep building with Arizona's developers, GCs, and small business owners.
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ABOUT / 2025
Justin
Trexler
I'm an architect who founded Shade Architects. In my free time I primarily enjoy hanging out with my family. I also enjoy design, technology, and aerospace.
Available for select projects
Mesa · Phoenix · Tempe · Chandler
CURRENTLY
FOCUS
Multi-FamilyRetailCivicMixed-Use3D Laser Scanning
Experience
1998 — 2025
2023
Founding Principal
Shade Architects
Responsible for leading the design team and making sure project goals are met on time and on budget.
Mesa, AZ
2017
Associate
Architekton
Project management and project architect roles on large and complex civic , multifamily,and higher-education projects.
Tempe, AZ
2014
Project Architect
Shepley Bulfinch
Lead architect on high-rise mixed use apartment developments in Tempe and Phoenix.
Phoenix, AZ
2008
Designer
SmithGroup
Designer and later Project Architect on several high-profile projects in multiple states.
Phoenix, AZ
2005
Designer
Schiel Architects
Designer for luxury custom homes.
Salt Lake City, UT
1998
Staff Sergeant
U.S. Air Force
Meteorological and Navigation Systems Journeyman. Assignments included: The Pentagon, Camp David, and navigation systems used by Air Force One.
Multiple
Recent Thoughts
Feb 2025
ASU Master in Real Estate Development: Energy Use in the Desert Discussion
There isn't currently enough energy generation to meet the increasing demand. The primary way this shortfall is managed is through a waitlist for new data centers.
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Jan 2025
Should building codes protect property from fires, or just focus on saving lives?
Right now, model building codes are heavily focused on life safety... But they don't necessarily prioritize property preservation.
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Nov 2024
Urban Land Institute Fall Meeting - Chandler Downtown
Really enjoyed the ULI Adaptive Reuse Infill and Revitalization (AIR) Product Council meeting. The focus this year was downtown Chandler's plans and progress made over the years.
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Let's Connect
I enjoy working with developers, contractors, and business owners across Mesa, Phoenix, Tempe, and Chandler. Let's discuss your next commercial or civic project.