Business Details
20 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Cincinnati
Founded in 2006 by Chris Kepes, AIA, our firm brings over three decades of architectural expertise to Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Specializing in vernacular modernist houses and historic renovations, we combine sustainable design principles with a deep understanding of local environments. Our work has earned multiple Cincinnati AIA CRAN design awards and recognition as top residential architects by Builders Digest in 2021. With a career spanning since 1991, Chris Kepes applies insights from his education at the University of Cincinnati and professional experience in both residential and commercial projects. We prioritize client collaboration, offering personalized service from initial consultation through construction administration.Our philosophy emphasizes creating functional, beautiful spaces that enhance clients' lives while respecting natural and built environments. Active in community service, we contribute to local planning initiatives and youth organizations. Our unique approach integrates hand-drafted designs with modern technology, ensuring clarity and precision throughout the design process. With extensive experience in navigating zoning regulations and historic preservation requirements, we deliver tailored solutions that balance creativity with practicality. Our commitment to excellence extends to selecting trusted contractors and craftsmen who share our dedication to quality.
Services
Residential Architecture
Historic Renovations
Design Consultations
Construction Administration
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of architectural experience with AIA-certified expertise
- Our personalized approach ensures designs tailored to individual client needs
- Proven track record with multiple Cincinnati AIA CRAN design awards
- Specialized knowledge in navigating complex zoning and historic preservation requirements
- Comprehensive service from initial consultation through construction administration
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
What people say
Great to work with
Creative designs
Professional service
Excellent communication
Budget-conscious solutions
Services
Residential Architecture
Creating custom residential spaces that blend modern aesthetics with functional design. Our approach prioritizes natural light optimization, sustainable materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. Clients benefit from 30+ years of expertise in crafting homes that adapt to evolving lifestyle needs while maintaining architectural integrity.
Historic Renovations
Specialized preservation and modernization of historic properties. We maintain original character while incorporating contemporary comforts through careful material selection and code-compliant updates. Our team excels at navigating historic district regulations and securing necessary approvals for projects ranging from Victorian renovations to Georgian restorations.
Design Consultations
Comprehensive pre-purchase evaluations and conceptual planning services. We help clients understand property potential through site analysis, budget projections, and spatial optimization strategies. Early-stage guidance ensures informed decision-making for both residential and commercial property investments.
Construction Administration
Active project management during construction phases to ensure design intent is maintained. Our services include contractor coordination, progress documentation, and problem-solving to maintain quality standards. Regular site visits and detailed meeting notes provide clients with transparency throughout the building process.
Sustainable Design
Environmentally conscious design solutions that reduce ecological impact without compromising aesthetics. We integrate passive solar principles, energy-efficient systems, and locally sourced materials to create spaces that minimize resource consumption while maximizing occupant comfort and long-term value.
People
Chris Kepes
Founder/Architect
AIA-certified architect with 30+ years of experience specializing in modernist residential design and historic preservation. Educated at the University of Cincinnati, he combines creative vision with practical expertise in navigating zoning regulations and construction challenges.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential architecture, historic renovations, and sustainable design projects across Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
How do you approach the design process?
Our process begins with listening sessions to understand client needs, followed by schematic design, development, and comprehensive construction documentation.
Do you work outside the Cincinnati area?
While based in Cincinnati, we've completed projects in Charleston and North Carolina, and collaborate with professionals to serve clients beyond our immediate region.
How do you handle historic preservation requirements?
We have extensive experience navigating historic district regulations and have successfully completed multiple award-winning preservation projects in Cincinnati's historic neighborhoods.
What makes your firm different?
Our unique combination of AIA-certified expertise, hand-drafted design approach, and commitment to sustainable solutions sets us apart in the architectural field.
Do you assist with contractor selection?
Yes, we provide recommendations and facilitate introductions to trusted contractors who understand our design standards and project requirements.
