About

Our Team

ZŌN Architects has an in-house team of architectural designers, planners, and CAD production experts. We expand our capabilities with a network of highly qualified engineering and design consultants as needed. This blend of core talent and specialty services allows customizing project teams to efficiently fulfill each client's unique requirements. Our collaborative structure facilitates education across disciplines as well.

Additionally, we utilize platforms providing clients with real-time access to project data, facilitating transparent communication throughout every phase.

Our approach leverages technology to share knowledge, streamline workflows, and keep clients informed. Please inquire for details on how our team and tools can effectively realize your vision.

Our Mission

ZŌN Architects strives to deliver design excellence and exceptional professional services, fostering lasting client relationships and a positive experience on every project through collaborative teamwork.

We believe cooperation across all stakeholders leads to the most successful outcomes. Our firm is committed to surpassing expectations by:

Creating customized solutions that are visually stunning and optimally functional
Leading expert project management from concept to completion
Building trusted partnerships through transparent communication
Infusing passion that minimizes stress and enriches each project

By embracing a spirit of teamwork and holding ourselves to the highest standards, we enrich every client experience. Please inquire to learn more about the ZŌN difference.

Our Experience

ZŌN Architects is a privately held California design firm. The partners have collaborated for over 25 years, leveraging over 70 combined years of design expertise.

This depth of experience has taught us that open communication is integral to success. One of our primary responsibilities is encouraging transparency between all stakeholders throughout each project phase.

Our consultative approach facilitates education across disciplines as well. We believe cooperative workflows lead to optimal outcomes by allowing a diversity of perspective.

From initial concepts to construction completion, ZŌN simplifies even complex projects with clear coordination. Our longtime partnerships span clients, contractors, and local municipalities as well.

Please inquire to learn how our collaborative ethos and unwavering standards contribute to an exceptional client experience.

Our Leadership

David Elias

David Elias, President & CEO

With a bachelor’s degree in Architecture and a master’s in Land Use Development, David Elias has worked across Central and South America and the Caribbean. He has directed numerous large-scale residential developments as well as custom homes, and has been responsible for the design and implementation of diverse projects at ZŌN Architects.

David manages the daily operations of the firm and has led ZŌN’s Telecommunication Division since its formation. With a consultative approach, he aims to demystify complex building processes—strategically phasing even large-scale projects to make them more approachable.

His personable leadership focuses on understanding each client’s needs and objectives to deliver tailored solutions. David directly oversees client relationships, leveraging his international experience and ZŌN’s comprehensive capabilities to provide both vision and pragmatism. His insight strengthens the firm’s reputation for service, transparency, and value.

Contact David at david@zonarchitects.com or via LinkedIn to learn more about bringing your vision to life with ZŌN Architects.

Jerry Wilhelm

Gerald D. Wilhelm

Gerald D. Wilhelm, Vice President & COO

Jerry Wilhelm, a licensed architect for over two decades, operates from Santa Barbara, overseeing operations and strategic growth initiatives at ZŌN Architects. He directly manages architectural engagements for ZŌN across education, civic, commercial, and residential markets in California.

Since receiving his architectural license (#C26338) in 1996, Jerry has delivered diverse projects spanning K–12, university, library, performing arts, municipal, and residential commissions. His portfolio reflects a broad range of building types and specialized services.

As a partner at ZŌN, Jerry guides firmwide excellence in client-centered service and design innovation and serves as the Architect in Responsible Control for all ZŌN Architects projects statewide. He also leads ZŌN’s projects in the Santa Barbara area and independently manages Wilhelm Architects as Principal.

Contact Jerry at jerry@zonarchitects.com.

Gregory Brader

Gregory Brader, Secretary/Treasurer & CFO

Gregory Brader serves as Chief Financial Officer and Secretary/Treasurer of ZŌN Architects, overseeing the firm’s financial and accounting operations. With bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business management, public administration, and public policy, he brings a strong foundation in finance and strategy to his role.

Since becoming CFO in 2004, Greg has managed the firm’s financial operations, including budgeting, reporting, cash flow, and compliance. He also plays a key role in strategic planning, guiding ZŌN’s growth and long-term financial direction. His focus on cost optimization and resource efficiency supports the success of the firm’s diverse project portfolio.

In addition to his financial leadership, Greg has been a licensed California real estate broker since 2003 (DRE #01383958), providing valuable insight into the firm’s real estate and development initiatives.

Contact Greg at greg@zonarchitects.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.

ZŌN's Leadership and Team

ZŌN’s leadership is supported by a dedicated in-house team of professionals who manage the design and delivery of our projects with care and precision. While most services are provided internally, we also partner with trusted specialists—such as geotechnical engineers (soils reports) and other technical consultants—when specific expertise is required. This integrated approach ensures every project benefits from the right knowledge at the right time without compromising quality or continuity.

To connect with our team, call 415-287-0596 or email support@zonarchitects.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer

As an equal opportunity employer upholding federal anti-discrimination regulations, ZŌN makes employment decisions without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, age, disability status or other protected classes. We value diversity of background and perspective.

Certified Small Business

ZŌN is certified as a Small Business (SB) by the State of California's Office of Small Business & DVBE Services, Department of General Services (DGS).

CalOSBA

ZŌN supports California Office of the Small Business Advocate's Disaster Preparedness & Resilience for Small Business Owners program and encourages all Californians, including small business owners, to be better prepared so they can be more resilient to disasters.

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