Business Details
Expert Architectural Design Services in Asheville, NC
We are a design-focused architectural firm dedicated to creating meaningful spaces that harmonize with their environment. Our practice emphasizes sustainable strategies, utilizing local materials and high-performance systems to address regional climate challenges. With projects spanning western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina, we specialize in custom homes, mixed-use developments, and community planning. Our approach prioritizes collaboration, tailoring solutions to each client's unique needs while maintaining a commitment to timeless design.We have contributed to notable developments like Cheshire Village and Acadia, blending functionality with aesthetic sensitivity. Our work reflects a deep understanding of building science and a dedication to advancing architectural excellence through innovation and craftsmanship.
Services
Custom Homes
Mixed-Use Development
Community Planning
Healthcare Facilities
Commercial Architecture
Historic Renovations
Sustainable Design
Construction Management
Design Guidelines
Architectural Character Studies
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience in residential and commercial architecture.
- Our team specializes in sustainable design with local materials and energy systems.
- We provide site-specific solutions that respond to regional climate challenges.
- Our practice integrates Building Science principles for high-performance structures.
- We have successfully completed mixed-use developments like Cheshire Village and Acadia.
Services
Custom Homes
We create bespoke residential spaces tailored to client needs and site conditions. Our approach combines regional architectural traditions with modern sustainability practices. Each project integrates energy-efficient systems and locally sourced materials to ensure enduring value and environmental responsibility.
Mixed-Use Development
Our mixed-use projects integrate residential, commercial, and public spaces to create cohesive environments. We develop comprehensive plans including road layouts, design guidelines, and architectural character frameworks. This approach fosters walkable, sustainable communities that enhance local identity and functionality.
Sustainable Design
We implement holistic sustainability strategies across all project types. Our solutions include passive solar design, high-performance building envelopes, and renewable energy systems. By prioritizing local materials and climate-responsive design, we deliver energy-efficient buildings that minimize environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic integrity.
Construction Management
We provide comprehensive construction management services for small-scale developments. Our team coordinates with contractors and trades to ensure design intent is maintained throughout construction. This includes quality control, schedule management, and technical support to deliver projects on time and within budget.
Design Guidelines
We develop context-sensitive design guidelines for communities and developments. These standards establish architectural character, material palettes, and site planning principles. Our approach ensures cohesive development while preserving regional identity and enhancing property values through thoughtful urban design.
People
Michael J McDonough Arch
Architect
Michael J McDonough Arch leads a design-oriented practice focused on sustainable architecture and community development. With extensive experience in residential and commercial projects, he emphasizes site-specific solutions that integrate regional vernacular with modern building science principles.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
While we're known for Craftsman-style projects, we prioritize functional solutions tailored to each client's needs. Our approach adapts to regional context rather than adhering to specific stylistic conventions.
Do you work on commercial as well as residential projects?
Yes, we handle both commercial and residential developments including healthcare facilities, retail spaces, mixed-use communities, and custom homes across western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We use local materials, high-efficiency mechanical systems, and passive solar design principles. Our buildings feature optimized thermal envelopes and renewable energy integration to minimize environmental impact while maintaining comfort.
Can you assist with community development projects?
We provide comprehensive planning services including road layouts, lot configurations, and architectural guidelines. Our experience includes mixed-use communities like Cheshire Village and Eastwood Village developments.
What construction services do you offer?
We provide construction management services through affiliated companies, overseeing small development projects from design through completion while maintaining design integrity and quality control standards.
How do you approach site-specific design?
We analyze each site's unique characteristics including climate, topography, and regional materials. This informs design decisions that create buildings harmonizing with their environment while meeting functional requirements.
Reviews (1)
Joanne Kalp
Oct 14, 2018
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Our experience working with Michael was one of complete satisfaction. He really understood what we wanted, what we needed, and helped us make the many trade offs that come with designing and building a home within a budget. The few, and minor hiccups were all handled quickly, and with a great deal of creativity. And all this took place while we were still living out of state!
Months into living in our beautiful new home, we are still just wowed by the finished product. We continue to enter our home and think, I cant believe I am living in this beautiful place! We have lost count
Months into living in our beautiful new home, we are still just wowed by the finished product. We continue to enter our home and think, I cant believe I am living in this beautiful place! We have lost count
