Business Details
30 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural & Interior Design Services in New Orleans
Lee Ledbetter & Associates, founded in New Orleans in 1996, is a design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. The firm's principal, Lee Ledbetter, maintains a hands-on approach, ensuring direct engagement in every project phase. Our designs prioritize client needs, contextual awareness, and typological precedent, treating architecture as both a fine art and a service industry. We emphasize collaboration with clients and consultants to achieve cohesive, functional spaces.The firm integrates sustainable practices, with nearly one-third of staff as LEED-accredited professionals and membership in the US Green Building Council. Our methodology combines digital tools with traditional hand-drawing and model-building to maintain creative immediacy. Projects span residential, academic, religious, and hospitality sectors across seven states and the Bahamas, reflecting our commitment to quality construction, environmental stewardship, and client satisfaction.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Planning
Sustainable Design
Renovations
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1996 with a hands-on principal approach
- LEED-certified professionals prioritize sustainable design
- Seamless integration of architecture and interior design
- Award-winning projects across diverse sectors and regions
- Combines digital tools with traditional design methodologies
Associations and certifications
- LEED
- US Green Building Council
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services focus on creating functional, aesthetically cohesive spaces tailored to client needs. We handle projects from concept through construction, emphasizing contextual awareness and sustainable practices. Our team combines modern technology with traditional methods to deliver innovative solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.
Interior Design
We specialize in integrating interior elements with architectural frameworks from project inception. Our approach considers furniture placement, lighting, and artwork to create harmonious environments. Services include material selection, custom furniture design, and ensuring spatial functionality across residential and commercial settings.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design practice incorporates eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and LEED-certified methodologies. Nearly one-third of our team holds LEED accreditation, ensuring environmentally responsible solutions for new constructions and renovations while maintaining aesthetic integrity and functionality.
Planning
We provide comprehensive planning services including site analysis, programming, and master planning. Our process begins with understanding client goals and contextual constraints to develop strategic, phased approaches for complex projects across diverse sectors.
Renovations
Our renovation expertise preserves architectural character while modernizing functionality. We handle historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and contemporary upgrades, balancing structural integrity with updated systems. Projects range from residential renovations to institutional building transformations.
People
Lee Ledbetter
Founder & Principal Architect
Lee Ledbetter, FAIA, founded the firm in 1996 after working with renowned architects like Robert A.M. Stern. He integrates architecture and interior design, emphasizing client collaboration and sustainable practices. His work has received numerous AIA awards and national recognition.
Chris Loudon
Architect
Chris Loudon, NCARB, joined in 2005 with 25+ years of experience in residential and commercial projects. He specializes in design detailing and project management, having worked on notable projects like the Stallings St. Claude Center and Besthoff Sculpture Pavilion.
Tarra Cotterman
Architect
Tarra Cotterman, NCARB, brings 25+ years of experience in diverse project types across multiple states. Her expertise includes programming, site analysis, and construction administration. She has led significant projects like the Joan Mitchell Center Artists Studio Building and St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church.
Paul Zansler
Interior Designer
Paul Zansler joined in 2018 with 20+ years of interior design experience. He specializes in material selection, custom furniture design, and project management for residential and commercial spaces. His work includes the Fisk-Hopkins Residence and Carlyle Hotel Pied-a-Terre.
Margarette Weaver
Architect
Margarette Weaver joined in 2018 with expertise in residential renovations and new construction. She holds degrees from Louisiana State University and has worked on diverse projects in Washington, D.C., and Austin, Texas, before joining the firm.
Questions
What services does Lee Ledbetter & Associates offer?
We provide architectural design, interior design, planning, sustainable design solutions, and renovation services for residential, commercial, and institutional projects.
Where does the firm operate?
While based in New Orleans, we work on projects across seven U.S. states and the Bahamas, including Louisiana, Texas, Florida, and Georgia.
What makes your firm unique?
Our integration of architecture and interior design from project inception, combined with sustainable practices and a hands-on principal approach, ensures cohesive, client-focused results.
How does the firm approach sustainability?
Nearly one-third of our team are LEED-certified professionals who incorporate eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and green building practices into all project phases.
Can you handle both new construction and renovations?
Yes, we specialize in both new construction and renovation projects, balancing historic preservation with modern functionality across residential and commercial sectors.
