The design-build
difference.
In the typical construction process, the project owner negotiates a complex web of interconnected contracts. They must select Architects, Interior Designers, Engineers, Consultants, Permitting Specialists, Owner Representatives, General Contractors, Furniture Procurement Specialists and other third-party stakeholders.
This is often a confusing, frustrating and, above anything else, a risky way of working.
This is why Powell uses an entirely different project delivery method: Design-Build.
Within the Design-Build process, the project owner signs one master contract that includes all the diverse professionals involved in creating a successful construction project. Having a single point of contact and responsibility simplifies the normally complicated process.
Communication is critical to success, which is why a unified team of professionals at Powell guides the owner through the journey from the idea phase to handing over the keys to a beautiful building. As the design is developed the Construction team is intimately involved, providing pricing and logistical feedback. Alternatively, during the Building Phase the Architects and Interior Designers are on site constantly providing guidance and advice. The ownerβs design, budget and schedule goals are respected and protected from the first day to the last.
Our Approach
At Nashvilleβs Powell Architecture + Building Studio, our approach is based on a simple intent: offering inspired design and seamless delivery.
We achieve this through a creative, personalized take on the design-build process, inspired by the storied days of the master builder, who personally shepherded a project from day one of design to the moment the last stone was placed.
Each of our clients get the focused attention of five specialized partners who synthesize the diverse elements of architecture, interior design, construction and craft into a single service. Together alongside our clients, weβre one multifaceted, streamlined team.
This boutique approach instills our whole creative process with a bit more enchantmentβfrom high-end dining spaces to sprawling mixed-use business centers. And the build process, too, moves along with more ease: one contract in place of a dozen, one central team instead of a web of subcontractors, direct communication and problem solving, accountability and responsibility.
Itβs an approach that makes for closer client relationships. And one that ensures the integrity of the vision the whole way through.
The end result shouldnβt be the only magical part of creating a space. Call us old fashionedβor even romantics, but we believe the whole process should be infused with art and style.
Powell projects have been featured in numerous publications including Architectural Digest, Dwell, Forbes, Southern Living, Domino, Eater, and more.
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Our Team
Powell delivers a fully realized, one-stop Architecture, Construction and Interior Design vision to clients across the regionβs creative business spectrum.
Steve Powell
Founding Partner + Architect + General Contractor
Manely Seale
Partner + Architect Director
Katie Vance
Partner + Interior Design Director
Chad Roberts
Partner + Construction Director + General Contractor
Luke Tidwell
Managing Partner + Business Development
Jason Hitchcock
Architect + Project Manager
Katie Vance
Partner + Interior Design Director
Kimberly Schmunk
Construction Coordinator
BJ Bush
Project Manager + VDC Specialist
Abigail Kursave
Interior Designer
Evan Brooks
Architect +
Project Manager
Hannah Terry
Project Manager
James Carroll
Architect +
Project Manager
Morgan Miller-Wallace
Executive Project Manager
Owen Wagner
Pre-Construction Manager
Andrew Barfield
Site Superintendent
Javier Gutierrez
Site Superintendent
Jacob Keiser
Site Superintendent
Cheri Spears
Administrative Assistant
Steven Crawford
Site Superintendent