---
title: "W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/w-douglas-gilpin-jr-faia-architect-plc-pfvwus-pf~1167054973
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1167054973.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/cd436f9903aeed02_2867-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "1665 Brandywine Drive, Charlottesville, Virginia 22901, United States"
latitude: 38.0936
longitude: -78.5611
phone: "(434) 960-4036"
website: http://gilpinarchitect.com/
rating: 5
review_count: 9
best_of_houzz_awards: 2
followers: 85
last_updated: 2026-08-26
---

# W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC

Original Houzz profile: [W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/w-douglas-gilpin-jr-faia-architect-plc-pfvwus-pf~1167054973)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Charlottesville, VA
- **Serves:** Charlottesville, Hollymead, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, Free Union, Batesville, White Hall
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (9 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2015–2017), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- 5 Star Houzzer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 1,000 Ideabook Saves

Our work includes custom-designed houses predominantly in Charlottesville, Virginia, at 'The Greenbrier' resort in West Virginia, and on Block Island, Rhode Island. We also provide historic preservation services, and have worked on several National Landmark structures including house museums, railroad depots, and courthouses.

Doug is a registered Architect practicing in Virginia, West Virginia, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.

Our architectural work has been featured in magazines, video, and tours such as Bob Vila’s ‘Restore America’, The Old House Journal, Southern Accents, Virginia Business, and The Garden Club of Virginia’s ‘Historic Garden Week’.

Doug is a graduate of the University of Illinois (B.S. and Master of Architecture) with an overseas year-long study at the former Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Versailles.

In addition to architecture, Doug’s interests include hiking with his wife and Labrador retrievers, general aviation, culinary adventures, clamming, single-malt whiskies, and Jaguars.

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- House Plans
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Kitchen Design
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Bathroom Design
- Space Planning
- Historic Building Conservation
- Basement Remodeling
- Construction Drawings

### Areas Served

- Charlottesville
- Hollymead
- Crozet
- Earlysville
- Ivy
- Free Union
- Batesville
- White Hall

### Typical Job Cost

$250,000 - 8.5 million

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC |
| Address | 1665 Brandywine Drive, Charlottesville, Virginia 22901, United States |
| Phone | (434) 960-4036 |
| Website | http://gilpinarchitect.com/ |
| License Number | VA 0401004689 |
| Followers on Houzz | 85 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/gilpinarchitect
- LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/pub/w-douglas-gilpin-jr-faia/11/a25/698
- Blog — http://gilpinarchitect.com/

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/w-douglas-gilpin-jr-faia-architect-plc-pfvwus-pf~1167054973)
- **Website:** http://gilpinarchitect.com/
- **Phone:** (434) 960-4036

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- Ash Lawn-Highland, Home of President James Monroe(Robert E.) Lee Chapel and Museum, Washington and Lee UniversityMassanutten Lodge, Shenandoah National ParkManassas Railway Depot, Manassas, Virginia,Gibson-Sowell House, Michie Tavern, Charlottesville, Virginia,

- **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2015–2017), for Service.

**Affiliations**
- [AIA Custom Residential Architects Network](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-custom-residential-architects-network-pfvwus-pf~629398549)
- [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 9 reviews**

### All 9 reviews

**★★★★★ — Kim Kondracki, April 2016**

> My husband and I have been working with Douglas Gilpin to update a beach cottage on the East coast. We can't say enough good things about Doug's professionalism, creativity, and ability to collaborate with us on the look and functionality we are hoping to achieve. It is such a pleasure working with him. He is knowledgeable, thorough, and prompt. We are so pleased and excited with the designs he has developed for us. Our cottage is going to perfectly reflect our style because of his skills and expertise. Doug has also helped us navigate our town's review process. He has been sensitive to the requirements of our municipality as well as our design needs. We are so grateful that we are working with Doug.

**Comment from W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC:**

> Great to see the house moving along. 'Stix' is doing an excellent job in getting it under roof and 'windowed'.

**★★★★★ — Agsten Construction, Sept. 2015**

> As a construction project manager, I have worked with Doug Gilpin on several projects including a significant new house and some remodeling. In addition, I served on a community architectural review board with Doug for more than 5 years. He is a talented, experienced, and thoughtful architect. He knows building construction and details. It is fun to work with Doug, regardless of project demands.

**Comment from W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC:**

> Peter, thanks for the nice write-up, and let's do another house (or two) soon. Doug

**★★★★★ — pathennis, Sept. 2015**

> Doug is an excellent architect. He's an amazing note taker, which is very important later on during construction. Very detail oriented, but at the same time he keeps the project fun for the owners and the builder. Doug is professional with few peers. I give him my highest recommendation.

**Comment from W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA - Architect, PLC:**

> Pat, I am up for doing another project with you (and your dog Lucky) soon. Am only an hour and 15 minutes away!

**★★★★★ — shorst, Aug. 2014**

> I have known and worked with Doug in a professional capacity for over 10 years.  I know him to be thoughtful, approachable and very capable in what he does.  He works well with clients and has a thorough knowledge and understanding of architectural body and particularly well versed in historical design elements.  I unequivocally recommend him.

**★★★★★ — patriciciafranco, Aug. 2014**

> We hired Doug as an architect for a major addition to our home.  We are about to commence construction.  He is careful, timely and, most importantly, listens to our input.  He has done a wonderful job of navigating with subs, putting out the job to contractor bids, and interfacing with the permitting authorities.

**★★★★★ — sweetretreatbi, Aug. 2014**

> We hired Doug Gilpin in 2010 to renovate a small back bedroom into a master bedroom & an additional bathroom on the second floor. We were concerned about making the improvements, yet keeping the New England character of the house. Doug was definitely the man for the job! Throughout the whole design, permit & construction process, Doug's expertise was evident in his ideas, promptness in addressing our questions & concerns & efficient follow through. We were impressed with his imput & professionalism throughout the project. Delighted with the total renovation (inside & outside), we would recommend Doug Gilpin without hesitation.
>                                                  Glenn & Karen Sweet

**★★★★★ — rotobin, July 2014**

> I have worked with Doug Gilpin on several projects he is professional, talented, knowledgeable, detailed but most importantly he is really fun to work with!  I recommend him to all of my clients and will continue to work with him. He is truly the best!

**★★★★★ — kamcaleer, July 2014**

> We work with Doug on Block Island. He helps us with vacant land listings by giving potential buyers a vision of what they could do with a piece of property. He helps eliminate the unknown, educates people on what they can do and helps take the "fear factor" out of building on the island . He is very knowledgeable, extremely helpful, creative, and is willing to go the extra mile to help with whatever is needed.

**★★★★★ — purplewilliedog, July 2014**

> Mr. Gilpin is an approved architect for The Greenbrier Sporting Club, which is a private, members only residential community on the grounds of the historic Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.  He has designed many residences on property and is also a member of the Greenbrier Sporting Club Architectural Review Board.
>
> His attention to detail is beyond reproach and his designs are truly a work of art.  He is knowledgeable about all styles of architecture and his desire to bring your vision to reality is evident in his sincere dedication in working with the homeowner.

## Selected projects

- [Alterations and Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alterations-and-addition-pj-vj~1710451)
  - Location: Block Island, RI
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: Addition (right side in photo) to a 1980s cottage, which was significantly upgraded both outside and in.
- [Ridgetop Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ridgetop-residence-pj-vj~1671226)
  - Location: White Sulphur Springs, WV
  - Photos: 13
- [Huntin' and Fishin' Lodge](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/huntin-and-fishin-lodge-pj-vj~1289178)
  - Location: Covington, VA
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: The core of this Lodge is an 1840s period log barn relocated from Indiana. Overlooking a fishing stream, this retreat offers 360 degree vistas of natural areas. The historic structure rests on a local fieldstone foundation/Lower Level that includes three bedrooms, three baths, and a sports room. Tucked above the Main Level Kitchen is a sleeping loft accessed by a discrete stair. Interiors by Barbara Gisel Design.
- [New Kitchen, Old House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-kitchen-old-house-pj-vj~1684273)
  - Location: Lewisburg, WV
  - Photos: 1
  - Description: New kitchen added to an 1850s house in the location of the original kitchen 'ell' that was too dilapidated to retain. Original rafters were salvaged and reused, and the original brick from the exterior was used on the new exterior. Cabinets were all hand-built and finished by the contractor. Reclaimed longleaf heat pine floors were incorporated.
- [Historic 1751 Residence in Essex County, VA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-1751-residence-in-essex-county-va-pj-vj~629393)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 10
- [House on Howard's Creek, Greenbrier Sporting Club](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-on-howard-s-creek-greenbrier-sporting-club-pj-vj~597206)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: This traditional home was completed in 2013, and was based on Greenbrier Valley (WV) vernacular architecture...heavily influenced by Bucks County, PA, craftsmanship. The exterior stone is from local sources and laid in a traditional high-lime content mortar with a raised edge profile. The roof is Vermont slate and metal. Interiors utilized reclaimed antique wood flooring, salvaged vintage mantels from the early to mid 19th century, and traditional moulding profiles for window and door openings,…
- [Historic Farmhouse Addition and Restoration](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-farmhouse-addition-and-restoration-pj-vj~596786)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: A wonderful client, contractor, and old house came together to work with me on this spectacular project. The old house dated to 1815 and 1850; it was tastefully restored to its original character and grace. The addition gently touched the rear of the house, and added a combination Kitchen, family dining, and entertaining space. The Master Bedroom/Bath are located on the Second Floor of the addition. A wrap-around porch with fireplace, and a semi-sunken garage that backed up to the Kitchen Garden…
- [Greenbrier Sporting Club Ridge House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/greenbrier-sporting-club-ridge-house-pj-vj~596873)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 6
- [Mountain Log House Complex](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mountain-log-house-complex-pj-vj~1671204)
  - Location: White Sulphur Springs, WV
  - Photos: 4
- [Mountaintop Stone House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mountaintop-stone-house-pj-vj~1671217)
  - Location: White Sulphur Springs, WV
  - Photos: 3
- [Greenbrier County House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/greenbrier-county-house-pj-vj~762814)
  - Location: Lewisburg, WV
  - Photos: 4
- [Proposed House on Block Island, Rhode Island](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/proposed-house-on-block-island-rhode-island-pj-vj~596828)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 1
  - Description: I was hired by a Real Estate company to provide a 'What If...' design for a lot on historic Block Island. The house exterior is based on traditional late 19th Century style characteristics of the Island: wood shingle roof and sidewalls, stone foundations, 2 over 2 windows with the ever-present storm shutters, simple decoration on the porches, and garage doors that simulate cellar storage entrances.
- [Seaside Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/seaside-residence-pj-vj~629430)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 1
  - Description: Design consultation

[See all 13 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/w-douglas-gilpin-jr-faia-architect-plc-pfvwus-pf~1167054973)

## Community Q&A

**Q: Love this "wallpaper"!** *(in Photo Questions)*

Can you please tell me how you adhered the covers to the wall - it all looks so smooth and even. And then did you spray the finish on after? It's very clever and fun!!
Thank you

A: \[Krylon Matte Finish spray. 4 coats. Sorry for the delay in responding.\[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/magazine-wall-dsvw-vd~3429121)

**Q: Magazine Wall** *(in Photo Questions)*

What material did you use to seal the magazine covers?

A: Krylon Matte Finish spray. 4 coats. Sorry for the delay in responding.

**Q: Tub** *(in Photo Questions)*

Information about the tub?

A: Waterworks 'Cambridge' tub. 71x32x21.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-26.*
