Business Details
41 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Asheville, NC
Samsel Architects has been a cornerstone of architectural excellence in Asheville, North Carolina, for four decades. Founded in 1985, our studio has consistently delivered timeless, sustainable designs that honor the unique character of the mountain region while addressing the evolving needs of our clients. Our approach is rooted in a deep commitment to stewardship of the built and natural environment, fostering strong client relationships, and integrating innovative solutions that reflect both artistic vision and technical precision. With a portfolio spanning residential, commercial, and historic preservation projects, we have earned recognition for our ability to blend functionality with aesthetic beauty, creating spaces that inspire joy and enhance quality of life.Our team of experienced professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and a collaborative spirit to every project, ensuring that each design is tailored to the specific context of its location and the aspirations of its users. As a firm, we prioritize transparency, ethical practices, and community engagement, donating 8% of our annual net profits to local nonprofits and advocating for equitable, sustainable development. Our 40-year legacy is a testament to our unwavering dedication to design excellence, environmental responsibility, and the betterment of the communities we serve.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Design
Renovation Services
Green Building Services
Historic Preservation
Interior Architecture
Steep Slope Design
Master Planning
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer 40 years of experience in mountain-region architectural design.
- Our team holds leadership roles in local and state architectural organizations.
- We integrate sustainable design principles into every project phase.
- Our work has received over 25 regional and national design awards.
- We maintain a proven track record of client satisfaction through transparent collaboration.
Services
Residential Design
Samsel Architects creates custom residential designs that harmonize with mountain landscapes while meeting modern living needs. Our approach prioritizes energy efficiency, natural material integration, and spatial flow that enhances daily life. With 40 years of regional expertise, we transform homes into enduring sanctuaries that reflect both client aspirations and environmental context.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving architectural heritage through meticulous restoration of historic structures. Our team combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to maintain historical integrity while ensuring functional longevity. This includes adaptive reuse projects that breathe new life into culturally significant buildings across Western North Carolina.
Green Building Services
Our green building services incorporate LEED-certified practices, passive solar design, and locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact. We develop energy-efficient systems tailored to mountain climates, reducing carbon footprints while maintaining aesthetic excellence in every project we undertake.
Commercial Design
Samsel Architects delivers commercial spaces that balance functionality with regional character. From office buildings to retail environments, we create designs that enhance user experience while meeting business objectives. Our solutions integrate sustainable practices and maximize return on investment through thoughtful spatial planning.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans for residential communities and commercial developments that respect natural topography and local ecosystems. Our process involves stakeholder collaboration to create visionary yet practical frameworks for sustainable growth that align with municipal regulations and community needs.
People
Nathan Bryant
Principal
With 25+ years at Samsel Architects, Nathan Bryant leads design teams for hospitality, commercial, and residential projects. He develops neighborhood design guidelines and serves on AIA-Asheville's board, holding NCARB certification across regional states.
Duncan McPherson
Principal
Duncan McPherson focuses on sustainable design and civic engagement, serving on MountainTrue's board and co-founding the Green Built Alliance. He has led award-winning projects while maintaining a 1926 home renovation as a personal passion project.
Questions
What architectural services does Altura Architects offer?
We provide residential and commercial design, renovations, green building services, historic preservation, interior architecture, and master planning tailored to mountain-region contexts.
How does Altura Architects approach sustainable design?
Sustainability is integrated into every project through energy-efficient systems, local materials, and designs that harmonize with natural landscapes while meeting LEED standards.
What makes Altura Architects unique in Asheville?
Our 40-year legacy combines mountain-region expertise, award-winning designs, and a commitment to community stewardship through pro-bono work and nonprofit partnerships.
Can Altura Architects handle historic preservation projects?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation with deep knowledge of local architectural heritage and adaptive reuse techniques for modern functionality.
What awards has Altura Architects received?
We've earned 25+ awards including AIA NC Tower Awards, ASPIRE Merit Awards, and multiple Preservation Society Griffin Awards for design excellence.
