zerep architecture is a certified service-disabled veteran-owned small business and was founded on a simple belief: the best projects begin with trust, clear communication, and a genuine respect for the people behind them.

We don’t just design buildings — we design moments, spaces that actually make sense and make people feel something. At zerep, honesty is our baseline, curiosity is fuel, and practicality is a secret superpower. We listen first, riff second, and always make sure the design responds to its place, its people, and its purpose. We treat collaborators like partners, budgets like sacred ground, and ideas like something to run with — not hide behind.

The practice was established to create a more thoughtful, transparent approach to architecture—one rooted in listening first, asking the right questions, and understanding the real goals, constraints, and aspirations of each client. Design at zerep is shaped by relationships as much as by context, responding not only to site and program, but to the people who will build, use, and invest in the work.

If you want architecture that’s smart, thoughtful, and just a little unexpected, we’re the team you’ll want in your corner.

No Games. No Mystery. No Hierarchy.

Intentionally small. Relentlessly capable.
We stay lean and deeply engaged with our clients.
Backed by more than 20 years of experience, we punch above our weight—bringing ‘big firm’ expertise to projects of every scale.

Honesty beats optimism.
Clear answers early save time, money, and trust later.

Context drives design.
Site, zoning, budget, schedule, history, and community matter as much as form.

Partners are partners.
Valued collaboration with engineers, contractors, and consultants is essential

Buildability matters.
If it can’t be built well, it isn’t good design.

Individuals
If you’re investing your own money, we take that seriously. We listen first, explain clearly, and work hard to turn your goals into something you’re proud to build.

Owners & Developers
You get straight answers, realistic feasibility, and a design principal, who is engaged throughout, who understands risk, return, and long-term value. I help you make informed decisions—not expensive guesses.

Builders & General Contractors
You get coordinated, clear drawings, responsive communication, and an architect who respects your time and expertise. I design with construction in mind—because that’s where ideas meet reality.

Services (the short version)

Zerep Architecture provides practical architectural and consulting services for residential and small commercial projects throughout Pennsylvania and remotely where permitted. We work with homeowners, realtors, contractors, and developers who need clear answers, responsive communication, and drawings that get approved.

Our focus is helping projects move forward — from early feasibility through permitting and construction support.

Services (the longer version)

Feasibility Studies + Due Diligence

This is where smart projects are made.
Before a dollar is spent on full design, Zerep works with homeowners and developers to evaluate zoning, building code, site constraints, utilities, entitlements, and market realities to determine what is truly possible — and what is strategically smartest.

Through early collaboration, we identify risks, uncover opportunities, and test multiple scenarios to determine the highest and best use of the property.
The result is clarity: clear direction, realistic budgets, informed decision-making, and a project that moves forward with confidence instead of costly surprises.
Strong projects don’t start with drawings — they start with informed strategy.


Permit Drawings
We prepare construction drawings for permit submission and contractor pricing.
Our goal is clear, buildable drawings that municipalities can review efficiently.

Though we can tackle most project types, we specialize in single-family new construction and additions, interior renovations, accessory units, small commercial fit-outs and small to large scale multi-family projects.

Most projects are offered as fixed-fee proposals, though hourly services are available.

Contractor & Builder Support
Zerep Architecture works directly with contractors and builders as an on-call architectural resource.

Services include code consultation, field verification, as-built drawings, detail sketches, and coordination with structural engineers or consultants.
This allows projects to resolve issues quickly and avoid delays during construction.

Construction Phase Assistance
We remain available during construction to answer questions, review submittals, and visit the site as needed.
Clients may choose occasional site visits or ongoing support depending on project complexity.

Independent Plan & Code Review
We offer third-party drawing and constructability reviews for homeowners, designers, and developers prior to permit submission or construction.
These reviews help identify code issues, missing information, and coordination problems early — reducing revisions and change orders.

Getting Started
Most projects begin with a brief phone call or a property review.
After understanding the project goals, we provide a clear proposal outlining scope, schedule, and fixed fee whenever possible. We never charge for initial consultations and will always be happy to refer you to a professional that may be better suited to handle your specific needs.

Value-add Services
Project design audits
Interior design
Brand strategy
Wayfinding
Masterplanning

I’m Joshua Perez AIA, NCARB, principal and founder of zerep, and I’ve spent my career, of over 15 years, helping people turn ideas into spaces that work, feel right, and truly reflect their vision. Before becoming an architect, I served 8 years in the military, an experience that taught me discipline, focus, and the importance of integrity — lessons I carry into every project.

After earning my Master of Architecture from Kansas State University, I had the privilege of working with both large international firms and specialized boutique studios across the country. From complex multifamily housing to adaptive reuse and small commercial and office projects, these experiences taught me how to balance innovation with practicality, ambition with reality, and big-picture vision with the details that make a space work.

What drives me is simple: honesty, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to helping clients realize their dreams. I take pride in listening first, asking the right questions, and guiding projects so that every decision — from concept to completion — serves the people who will live, work, and thrive in the spaces we create.

At zerep, I bring the same energy, focus, and care to each project, whether it’s a single-family home, a multifamily development, or a creative adaptive reuse. My goal is to provide thoughtful, innovative design solutions while staying grounded in what matters most: the client, the context, and the experience of the space.