WELCOME TO YARDSTICK STUDIO
Yardstick Studio is an award-winning architecture and design practice led by Rodney Kazenske, a licensed architect with over 40 years of experience in architecture, construction, and design. Specializing in residential, equestrian, and technically demanding specialty projects, Yardstick Studio combines thoughtful design, practical construction knowledge, and personalized service to transform complex ideas into exceptional places. Whether you're planning a new home, renovating a cherished property, or tackling a unique design challenge, every project benefits from decades of hands-on experience and a commitment to creating solutions that are functional, beautiful, and enduring.
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
"Designed for the Way You Live"
Yardstick Studio designs a wide variety of residential projects. Whether it's a New Single-Family Home, Renovation, Addition, or an Accessory Dwelling Unit, we will guide you through the process from conceptual planning through project completion.
EQUESTRIAN DESIGN AND PLANNING
"Where Equine Welfare Meets Design Excellence"
Since 2008, equestrian facilities have been a significant area of focus for Yardstick Studio. These projects present unique design and operational challenges, requiring a thoughtful balance between the health, safety, and welfare of horses and the functional goals of each facility.
Committed to advancing best practices in equine facility design and management, Rod has pursued ongoing study in equine science, earning a Diploma in Equine Science from the University of Guelph in 2023. This specialized knowledge enhances his ability to design environments that support the well-being of horses while improving safety, efficiency, and long-term facility performance.
TECHNICAL & SPECIALTY PROJECTS
"Architecture Beyond the Ordinary"
These are the projects that don't fit into a "traditional" project category and have technical design or unique programming requirements.
Here, for example is one of six living modules designed of Antarctica to support the crew that delivers supplies to our USAP scientific stations at the South Pole.
And this platform designed and built for NIST (National Institute of Standards & Technology) in Boulder, CO, as a service platform for electromagnetic testing equipment. Because of the sensitivity of the testing equipment, the platform could not have any metal components. so, it's assembled from wood with old-fashioned mortise & tenon joinery.
Or projects like this one. A viewing pavilion that required cantilevered shades. In order to keep the assembly simple and cost effective, rather than design custom hardware, off-the-shelf sailboat components were utilized to allow for reliable use and easy replacement over the years.
ABOUT THE ARCHITECT
RODNEY KAZENSKE
ARCHITECT
CPTED, NCARB
Rod Kazenske, Principal and Owner of Yardstick Studio, LLC, is an award-winning licensed architect with more than 40 years of experience in architecture, construction, and design. He holds a Master of Architecture from Montana State University and a Diploma in Equine Science from the University of Guelph. Active in his community, Rod serves on several committees, including as Co-Chair of his local RNO Land Use Committee. He is CPTED certified and is currently pursuing certification as a Passive House Consultant. Among his favorite project locations to date is Antarctica.
THE PASSION BEHIND PROJECTS
WHY YARDSTICK?
One of the most challenging parts of starting the firm was choosing a name. I knew I didn't want to name the practice after myself, and I didn't want a name that would limit the wide variety of projects I enjoy designing. More importantly, I wanted a name that meant something to me.
The inspiration came from a collection of yardsticks leaning in the corner of my office. It started when I was a teenager working for my grandfather at county fairs, handing out yardsticks for his plumbing, heating, and cooling business. I saved a few from those early days and have been collecting them ever since. Some came from hardware stores and lumberyards where I worked, others from suppliers, distributors, and friends I have met throughout my career.
Over the years, those yardsticks have come to symbolize craftsmanship, ingenuity, and pride in one's work. When a company handed out a yardstick, it was a simple gesture that said they stood behind what they did and valued their customers. Those are the same values that inspired the creation of Yardstick Studio. The name reflects a commitment to thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and building lasting relationships with clients. And yes, I still enjoy giving yardsticks to clients and friends, just as I once did for my grandfather.
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CURRENT LICENSING
PROJECT LOCATIONS
CERTIFICATES
AWARDS
