Business Details
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Wilmington, NC
S3 Architects (S3 Architects PLLC) is a full-service architectural firm based in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina. Founded by licensed architects Brian Hollars and Kelli Jordan, our practice emphasizes innovative, cost-effective, and buildable design solutions tailored to clients' needs and budgets. With over 25 years of industry experience, we specialize in new construction, adaptive reuse, and renovation projects that prioritize environmental sustainability, material durability, and community impact. Our NC HUB-certified female-owned business and SBA-certified status reflect our commitment to diversity and small-business excellence. We excel at transforming underutilized spaces into functional, inspiring environments while adhering to historic preservation standards and modern building codes.Our team's deep understanding of construction systems, budgeting, and phased project execution ensures every design balances creativity with practicality. Having completed award-winning projects across education, multi-family housing, and commercial sectors, we serve as both architects and historic consultants, documenting building histories and securing tax credits for rehabilitation efforts. Our work extends beyond designwe actively contribute to urban renewal initiatives and sustainable development through thoughtful architectural solutions.
Services
Architectural Design
Adaptive Reuse
Design-Build Projects
Urban Renewal
Affordable Housing
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of combined architectural experience from licensed professionals.
- Our NC HUB-certified status demonstrates commitment to diversity and small-business excellence.
- We specialize in transforming underutilized spaces into functional, award-winning environments.
- Our team understands material durability, environmental impact, and budget optimization.
- We provide historic preservation expertise with Secretary of Interior compliance documentation.
Associations and certifications
- NC HUB
- SBA-certified small business
What people say
Innovative space transformations
Historic tax credit expertise
Community-focused designs
Durable material solutions
Award-winning projects
Services
Adaptive Reuse
We specialize in transforming historic and underutilized buildings into functional modern spaces while preserving architectural integrity. Our process includes structural assessment, historic compliance documentation, and phased renovations that maximize existing materials. Clients benefit from reduced construction costs and unique spaces that maintain community character.
Design-Build Projects
Our integrated design-build approach streamlines projects from concept to completion. Licensed architects and construction experts collaborate to ensure design intent aligns with budget realities. This method reduces timelines and costs while maintaining quality control through all project phases.
Affordable Housing
We create sustainable, code-compliant affordable housing solutions through strategic use of tax credits and grant funding. Our designs optimize space efficiency while meeting accessibility standards. Projects include complete renovations of historic structures and new developments tailored to community needs.
Historic Preservation
As certified historic consultants, we document building histories and develop preservation plans that meet Secretary of Interior standards. Our work includes tax credit applications, material restoration, and adaptive reuse strategies that maintain structural authenticity while enabling modern functionality.
Urban Renewal
We lead urban renewal initiatives that transform vacant properties into community assets. Services include zoning analysis, facade restoration, and mixed-use development planning. Our projects stimulate economic growth while maintaining neighborhood character through thoughtful architectural interventions.
People
Brian Hollars
Owner + Architect
With 25+ years in architecture, Brian specializes in construction systems and problem-solving. Licensed in North Carolina and Indiana, he provides technical leadership for complex renovations and new builds while maintaining a client-focused design approach.
Kelli Jordan
Owner + Architect
Kelli brings 30 years of experience in creative design and construction coordination. Licensed in North Carolina and Indiana, she focuses on transforming spaces into functional, inspiring environments while balancing aesthetic vision with practical implementation.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in adaptive reuse, historic preservation, affordable housing, and urban renewal projects. Our expertise includes navigating tax credit programs and transforming underutilized buildings into functional spaces.
Are you experienced with historic building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historic renovations, including Secretary of Interior compliance documentation and tax credit applications for protected structures across multiple states.
How do you approach complex renovation projects?
We conduct thorough structural assessments, develop phased renovation plans, and prioritize material reuse while incorporating modern systems to meet current building codes and client needs.
Can you work with grant-funded projects?
Yes, we have successfully completed projects using Low Income Housing Tax Credits, HOME Funds, and historic tax credits, ensuring compliance with all funding requirements.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Wilmington, NC, we work across North Carolina, Indiana, and select regional markets where our expertise in urban renewal and historic preservation creates maximum impact.
