About Our Architectural Approach

Design Associates serves clients in Statesville, NC, and surrounding areas, including Mooresville, Hickory, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte, NC. We offer the expertise you expect from an established architecture firm while maintaining an approachable and team-focused working style. We don’t just design buildings—we help you build a clear and strategic foundation for what comes next. Our approach is grounded in listening, problem-solving, and ensuring every project begins with a solid understanding of its potential.

Feasibility Studies

Before design begins, we perform detailed feasibility studies to help you evaluate whether a project is viable and how best to move forward. These early assessments reduce uncertainty and provide essential clarity about the path ahead. Our feasibility studies often include:

• Zoning and land-use evaluations
• Site access, conditions, and environmental considerations
• Utility availability and infrastructure requirements
• Building footprint and layout possibilities
• Budget feasibility, phasing options, and long-term strategies

This process supports better decision-making, allowing you to confidently determine next steps and plan with purpose.

Master Planning

When your project involves long-term growth or multiple phases, our master planning services help you visualize how your building or campus will expand over time. We collaborate to establish priorities, develop a clear progression for future improvements, and ensure every phase supports the overall vision. These plans provide structure, flexibility, and alignment for stakeholders, making complex developments easier to manage and execute.

Code Analysis

Our comprehensive code analysis gives clients the advantage of working with a team deeply familiar with both new and existing building codes across multiple industries. This stage is critical for shaping the design, identifying challenges early, and ensuring project safety and compliance. Our work includes:

• Reviewing applicable building, accessibility, and life-safety codes
• Identifying constraints and potential impacts on the design
• Recommending solutions for unique or complex conditions
• Navigating requirements for renovations and adaptive reuse projects

Because we work across healthcare, education, industrial, worship, retail, municipal, and adaptive reuse environments, clients rely on us when seeking commercial architects in Charlotte, NC, who can handle diverse and nuanced project requirements.

Construction Documents

Once your project’s direction is established, we prepare customized construction documents that offer clarity and precision for your contractor. These documents are tailored to your needs—ranging from highly detailed drawings to more streamlined packages—and may include:

• Architectural plans, sections, and elevations
• Detailed notes and specifications
• Finish and material schedules
• Coordination with engineering consultants
• Details needed for permitting and construction approval

Our goal is to equip your construction team with coordinated, dependable information that reflects your design intent and supports accurate project execution.

Architectural Services From Start to Finish

Construction Administration

Our involvement doesn’t end when drawings are complete. Through construction administration, we remain actively engaged throughout construction to ensure the design is carried out as intended. Our responsibilities often include:

• Reviewing construction progress for alignment with the design
• Responding to RFIs and contractor questions
• Reviewing submittals and materials
• Conducting site visits as needed
• Helping address unforeseen field conditions

This hands-on involvement protects your investment and ensures the final result reflects the quality, functionality, and purpose established from the beginning.

Alongside architecture, we support clients with 3D design and renderings, offering everything from fast conceptual visuals to detailed models that help you explore options before construction. Our integrated interior design services ensure your furnishings, finishes, artwork, and functional elements work cohesively with the architecture, creating spaces that feel unified and ready for use.

Throughout every stage—from feasibility and planning to documentation and construction—you’ll experience the collaborative mindset that defines Design Associates. We are team-oriented, approachable, and committed to looking out for the interests of every stakeholder involved. Clients consistently value our clarity, responsiveness, and genuine investment in their success.

Whether we’re revitalizing an existing structure in Winston, supporting a commercial development in Charlotte, NC, or designing a community-focused facility in Boone, our architectural team delivers thoughtful, purposeful solutions grounded in experience and creativity.

Start the Process & Share Your Vision

If you’re planning a new facility or renovation in Statesville or Charlotte, NC, or the surrounding region, our team is ready to guide you forward. Let’s explore your goals, outline possibilities, and create a clear path toward your project’s future. Contact us today, and let’s begin building something meaningful.