Business Details
50 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architect in Wilmington, NC
Since 1976, John Stirewalt Architect has been dedicated to transforming client visions into exceptional residential and commercial structures across coastal North Carolina. Our small, Wilmington-based team combines deep local expertise with a streamlined process to deliver custom designs efficiently. We prioritize personal attention to every project detail, ensuring each client's unique needs are met with precision and care. With over 240 completed projects on Figure Eight Island alone, our portfolio spans modern coastal homes, medical offices, restaurants, and educational facilities.Our commitment to quality extends beyond designwe guide clients through every phase, from site analysis to construction administration. Led by Maria Williams and Tom Mullinax, our team continues John Stirewalt's legacy of excellence through collaborative innovation and unwavering professionalism.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Site Analysis
Renovations & Additions
Building Upfits
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- 46+ years of coastal North Carolina architectural expertise
- Personalized consultative approach for every project
- Proven track record with 240+ completed projects
- Award-winning coastal modern design specialization
- Direct collaboration with principal architects
What people say
Amazing new space
Exceptional design team
Wonderful person
Stunning architectural designs
Made the process easy
Services
Residential Design
Creating custom coastal and modern residential designs tailored to client preferences. Our team specializes in new construction and renovations for beachfront properties and upscale inland homes. With deep understanding of local building codes and environmental considerations, we ensure every project balances aesthetic appeal with functional excellence while maintaining strict adherence to budget parameters.
Commercial Architecture
Delivering functional commercial spaces for restaurants, medical offices, and retail locations. We focus on code-compliant designs that enhance business operations while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Our experience includes large-scale projects like 80-bed assisted living facilities and marinas, ensuring spaces meet both regulatory requirements and client-specific operational needs.
Site Analysis
Comprehensive assessment of property characteristics to optimize building placement and functionality. Our analysis considers environmental factors, zoning regulations, and structural feasibility to create site-specific designs. This foundational step ensures all projects maximize natural advantages while addressing potential challenges through data-driven planning.
Renovations & Additions
Transforming existing spaces through strategic renovations and expansions. We handle both minor updates and major structural modifications while preserving architectural integrity. Our approach maintains historical elements where desired while integrating modern amenities, ensuring improved functionality without compromising original design character.
Building Upfits
Specialized interior renovations for commercial spaces to meet evolving business needs. We focus on optimizing layouts for efficiency while maintaining compliance with accessibility standards. Our process minimizes operational disruption during upgrades, ensuring seamless transitions for businesses requiring updated facilities without complete rebuilds.
People
Maria Williams
Partner / Principal
Wilmington native with 15+ years of coastal architectural experience. Graduated from University of Houston with BS in Engineering Design. Joined JSA in 2012, became owner in 2022. Specializes in translating local design knowledge into client-focused solutions while maintaining John Stirewalt's legacy of excellence.
Tom Mullinax
Architect / President
46-year architecture veteran and John Stirewalt's longtime collaborator. UNC-Charlotte graduate with national recognition for healthcare design. Served as AIA Healthcare Conference keynote speaker. Brings extensive commercial project experience and commitment to continuing JSA's tradition of personalized architectural service and technical excellence.
Ashley Silance
Project Coordinator
Manages project timelines and client communications with 8+ years of architectural coordination experience. Serves as primary client contact, ensuring smooth project execution from initial consultation through completion. Maintains organizational excellence while supporting the design team's creative efforts.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We specialize in coastal modern designs but handle traditional beach homes and contemporary concepts. Our portfolio includes both residential and commercial projects tailored to client preferences.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we offer full-service architecture for residential homes and commercial buildings including restaurants, medical offices, schools, and assisted living facilities.
How does your design process work?
We begin with consultative sessions to understand your vision, followed by site analysis and custom design development. Our team manages construction administration to ensure your project meets all specifications.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve coastal North Carolina including Wilmington, Figure Eight Island, Wrightsville Beach, and the Intracoastal Waterway, with select projects in surrounding states.
Can you help with renovation projects?
Yes, we specialize in both residential and commercial renovations, handling everything from minor updates to major structural modifications while preserving architectural integrity.
Who will work on my project directly?
Principal architects Maria Williams and Tom Mullinax lead all projects with direct involvement, supported by Ashley Silance who coordinates project timelines and client communications.
Reviews (1)
Skip C.
Sep 03, 2020
Report
John and his team did a great job for us. He is a very talented architect and a wonderful person as well.
