Business Details
17 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design in Charleston, SC
Simons Young has built a reputation for creating enduring and thoughtfully designed works of architecture in Charleston and throughout the Lowcountry. Our practice emphasizes preservation, adaptive reuse, and new construction in historic environments, with a philosophy rooted in the connection between the built and natural world. Our team brings decades of experience in historic buildings, including work in cities like Paris, San Francisco, and Boston, with a focus on maintaining urban heritage through high-quality design. We specialize in residential, commercial, and community projects that reflect local context, from the stabilization of historic structures to innovative solar pavilions. Our work has earned recognition through awards like the Carolopolis Award and grants from organizations such as the National Trust African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund.We collaborate with clients to ensure projects meet both functional needs and aesthetic values, serving communities through thoughtful architectural solutions. Our team includes licensed architects with expertise in construction documentation, historic preservation, and large-scale commercial projects. We are actively involved in local and national architectural organizations, including the American Institute of Architects and the Historic Charleston Foundation. Our portfolio spans diverse project types, from private residences to institutional spaces, all united by a commitment to contextual design. We prioritize sustainable practices and community engagement, ensuring our work strengthens the relationship between people and their environments.
Services
Historic Preservation
Adaptive Reuse
Residential Renovation
Commercial Rehabilitation
Architectural Design
Community Projects
New Construction
Stabilization Services
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of combined experience in historic architecture.
- Our team includes licensed architects with expertise in adaptive reuse.
- Weve received Carolopolis Awards for historic preservation excellence.
- We prioritize contextual design that respects local heritage and environment.
- Our work spans diverse project types from residential to institutional spaces.
Services
Historic Preservation
Specializing in preserving historic structures, we employ traditional methods and materials to maintain architectural integrity while meeting modern standards. Our team has stabilized ruins, restored period details, and ensured compliance with preservation guidelines. Projects include the Brick House Stabilization and Nurses Quarters Adaptive Reuse, demonstrating expertise in protecting cultural heritage for future generations.
Adaptive Reuse
We transform existing structures into functional spaces while retaining historical character. Our approach balances modern needs with preservation requirements, as seen in projects like the King Street Rehabilitation and College of Charleston Solar Pavilion. This service extends building lifespans, reduces environmental impact, and maintains urban continuity through creative problem-solving and technical expertise.
Residential Renovation
Offering comprehensive residential renovation services, we enhance historic homes while respecting their original design. Projects range from interior updates to full structural overhauls, including the Switzer House Renovation and Elliot Street Residence. Our team addresses modern living needs while maintaining architectural authenticity through careful material selection and design integration.
Commercial Rehabilitation
We specialize in revitalizing commercial properties for contemporary use without compromising historical elements. Our portfolio includes the 145 King Street project and Radcliffeborough Rehabilitation, which demonstrate our ability to meet zoning requirements while preserving architectural character. Services include structural assessment, code compliance, and adaptive design solutions for retail and office spaces.
Architectural Design
Providing tailored architectural design services, we create new constructions that harmonize with historic contexts. From the Ansonborough Remodel to Marsh Front New Construction, our designs integrate modern functionality with traditional aesthetics. We focus on sustainable practices, material authenticity, and spatial innovation to deliver buildings that serve current needs while respecting their surroundings.
People
Simons Young
Principal Architect
Licensed architect with over 15 years of experience in historic preservation. Graduated from Washington University and worked in San Francisco before returning to Charleston in 2009. Specializes in integrating modern needs with historic structures while maintaining urban heritage.
Tom Wales
Architect
Focuses on adaptive reuse of historic structures with experience in Boston and Charleston. Graduated from Auburn University and brings expertise in arts and history to design decisions. Manages projects for educational and cultural institutions including Dartmouth College and the Peabody Essex Museum.
Steve Diesing
Architect
Licensed architect with over 30 years of experience in construction documentation and design implementation. Holds graduate degree from Washington University and specializes in large commercial projects and custom residential construction. Provides technical expertise for complex building systems and historic preservation challenges.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in historic preservation, adaptive reuse, residential and commercial renovations, and new construction in historic contexts across Charleston and the Southeast.
How do you approach historic building projects?
We maintain architectural integrity using traditional methods while incorporating modern standards. Our process includes material analysis, structural assessment, and compliance with preservation guidelines.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily work in Charleston and the Lowcountry region, with projects throughout South Carolina and the broader Southeastern United States.
Can you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we offer services for both residential renovations like private homes and commercial projects including retail spaces and institutional buildings.
What awards have you received?
We've received multiple Carolopolis Awards and grants from organizations like the National Trust African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund for preservation excellence.
How do you ensure sustainable design?
We prioritize adaptive reuse to reduce waste, incorporate energy-efficient systems, and use sustainable materials that maintain historical authenticity in all our projects.
