Tangram Architecture Studio
Bay Area Architecture Studio

Architecture
Design JUST for you since 2015

Crafting timeless spaces where form meets function — from East Bay to South Bay.

Explore Our Work
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Selected Works

A curated collection of residential, ADU, and landscape projects across the Bay Area.

Fremont Office & Home
Office Part
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Fremont Office & Home

Office Part

Home Part
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Fremont Office & Home

Home Part

Residential
House 1
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Residential

House 1

House 2
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Residential

House 2

House 3
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Residential

House 3

House 4
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Residential

House 4

House 5
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Residential

House 5

House 6
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Residential

House 6

House 7
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Residential

House 7

House 8
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Residential

House 8

House 9
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Residential

House 9

House 10
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Residential

House 10

House 11
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Residential

House 11

House 12
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Residential

House 12

ADU
ADU 1
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ADU

ADU 1

ADU 2
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ADU

ADU 2

Landscape
Landscape 1
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Landscape

Landscape 1

Landscape 2
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Landscape

Landscape 2

Landscape 3
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Landscape

Landscape 3

Our Services

Comprehensive architectural services tailored to your needs — from concept to completion.

Building Permits

We handle the entire permit process — from drawings to submissions to city approvals — so you don't have to.

  • Plan preparation & submittal
  • City permit expediting
  • Code compliance review
  • HOA approval support

Consultation

Expert guidance on feasibility, zoning, design direction, and budget — helping you make informed decisions.

  • Site feasibility analysis
  • Zoning & regulations check
  • Budget & timeline planning
  • Design direction & strategy

ADU Design

Custom Accessory Dwelling Unit design that maximizes space, value, and livability on your property.

  • Detached & attached ADU
  • Garage conversions
  • Junior ADU (JADU)
  • ADU permit specialists

Additions & Remodels

Transform your existing space with thoughtful additions, kitchen/bath remodels, and whole-home renovations.

  • Home additions & extensions
  • Kitchen & bath remodel
  • Whole-house renovation
  • Interior reconfiguration

Landscape Design

Outdoor spaces that extend your living area — blending hardscape, planting, and function beautifully.

  • Hardscape & softscape
  • Outdoor living spaces
  • Drought-tolerant design
  • Drainage & grading plans

Green Design

Sustainable, energy-efficient design that reduces environmental impact while enhancing comfort and long-term value.

  • Passive solar & natural ventilation
  • Energy-efficient materials & systems
  • Water conservation & greywater
  • LEED & GreenPoint Rated guidance
01

Initial Consultation

We meet, listen to your vision, assess the site, and discuss scope, budget, and timeline.

02

As-Built Drawings

We measure your existing space and create accurate as-built drawings to document current conditions.

03

Schematic Design

Conceptual plans exploring layout options, massing, and the overall design direction.

04

Permit Drawings

Detailed construction documents ready for city permit submission and approval.

05

Construction Support

Ongoing guidance through the build phase to ensure the design intent is realized.

By the Numbers

0 Projects Completed Across the Bay Area
0 Years Experience In architecture & design
0 Cities Served View all 19 cities ▸
0 Years Established Since founding in 2015
0 Client Satisfaction Percent dedication
Zhen Cao

Zhen Cao

Licensed architect in California (C32829) and LEED Green Associate. Zhen founded Tangram Architecture Studio in Fremont in 2015. She brings over two decades of global experience to every project.

Zhen earned her architecture degree in Beijing, China and practiced at a Class-A design institute, where she contributed to civic, educational, and high-rise residential projects. In 2000, she immigrated to Canada, where she completed a Master of Architecture at Carleton University in Ottawa, deepening her grasp of architectural history, theory, and critical practice. She later brought that perspective to California, joining a Santa Cruz firm and delivering over twenty wood-frame residential projects while completing NCARB's Intern Development Program.

In a single year, she passed all seven Architect Registration Examinations. Shortly after, she earned her LEED Green Associate certification and California license. Today, Zhen leads every project with technical precision and a deep respect for her clients, providing practical advice in both Mandarin and English and approaching each constraint as a design opportunity.

Outside the studio, Zhen is an active volunteer in her local community and cherishes time spent with her two children.

C32829 CA License
2015 Founded
25+ Years Exp.
Licensed Architect C32829 • LEED GA — Tangram Architecture Studio

Let's Start a Conversation

Whether you're planning a new build, a renovation, or simply exploring possibilities — we'd love to hear from you.

📍 Fremont, CA 94555 (By appointment only)
✉️ zhen@tangramarchitecture.com
📞 408-667-5965