--- title: "CK Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ck-architects-pfvwus-pf~1224773535 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1224773535.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "CK Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/5643305f0fea240c_3981-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "131 Boston St, Guilford, Connecticut 06437, United States" latitude: 41.3154 longitude: -72.6968 phone: "(203) 453-1224" website: http://www.ck-architects.com rating: 5 review_count: 17 best_of_houzz_awards: 12 followers: 492 last_updated: 2026-08-16 --- # CK Architects Original Houzz profile: [CK Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ck-architects-pfvwus-pf~1224773535) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Guilford, CT - **Serves:** New Haven, Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Wallingford Center, Madison, North Branford, Clinton, Killingworth, Northford, Branford Center, Deep River, Guilford Center, Madison Center - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (17 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2013–2025), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves Campaigne Kestner Architects PLLC is a small New England architectural design firm located in Guilford CT. We specialize in well crafted residential, commercial, and small institutional projects. Our aim is to improve our clients' quality of life by guiding them through the process of creating a home which is a natural extension of themselves. As designers we appreciate our unique ability to contribute to our community and improve the quality of the built environment for ourselves and future generations. We endeavor to do this in a manner which enhances the natural environment. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Floor Plans - Energy-Efficient Homes - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Project Management - Custom Home ### Areas Served - New Haven - Branford - East Haven - Guilford - Wallingford Center - Madison - North Branford - Clinton - Killingworth - Northford - Branford Center - Deep River - Guilford Center - Madison Center ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 5 million $500,000 - 5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | CK Architects | | Address | 131 Boston St, Guilford, Connecticut 06437, United States | | Phone | (203) 453-1224 | | Website | http://www.ck-architects.com | | License Number | 9584 | | Followers on Houzz | 492 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — http://www.facebook.com/pages/campaigne-kestner-architects/127534863990667?ref=tn\_tnmn - Blog — http://www.ck-architects.com/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [CK Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ck-architects-pfvwus-pf~1224773535) - **Website:** http://www.ck-architects.com - **Phone:** (203) 453-1224 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - First LEED HOMES Gold Certified House in CTCT Net Zero Energy ChallengeAIA CT Emerging Architects Award - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2013–2025), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/u-s-green-building-council-usgbc-pfvwus-pf~1797160658) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 17 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Mahme23, Oct. 2016** > I can not say enough good things about Russ. We built on a tight lot with some site complexity. He really listened to what my husband and I were looking for, and created for us something inclusive of the raw elements we brought him, but polished and developed in a way that we couldn't have arrived at ourselves. He maximized the feeling of openness by maintaining appropriate spaces where needed, and using our outdoor views to draw the eye out in the more modestly scaled rooms. He created good storage for us in sensible places too. When it was time for bidding, he had several vetted builders and also welcomed consideration of others - and helped evaluate their suitability for our complex project. During the construction phase, he was a font of knowledge and his expertise was invaluable in solving the myriad of small issues that arise during home construction. Throughout the process, we found Russ cared about the construction of our home almost as much as we did. He, MJ and their team are great people to work with. We are so lucky to have had the pleasure, and the academic benefit is clear in our awesome new home. **★★★★★ — Sharon K, April 2014** > When we first started looking for an architect to make updates (including an additio)n to the house on the shore that we had recently purchased, a neighbor recommended Russ to us. We met with him and were very impressed with his immediate understanding of what we were trying to accomplish and his knowledge of shoreline rules and regulations. We were ready to move ahead with him immediately but Russ suggested that we interview other architects as well to get other ideas and to make sure that we were choosing the right person. We met with two other architects, both of whom we liked but we still came back to Russ. We never regretted this decision. As the scope of the project grew and the effects of Hurricane Sandy began to be reflected in the shoreline regulations, we were so thankful for his knowledge and creativity. He was also very accommodating to our schedule, meeting with us over the weekend to go over the plans. > Once the plans were finalized, Russ guided us through the bidding process and the selection of Celebration Construction as our contractor. They also offered construction management services which we found very helpful. CK Architects was with us every step of the way through the construction process and the selection of what seemed a never ending list of appliances, lighting and other fixtures. They kept us on track and carefully monitored the contractor, meeting with them on a weekly basis. Since we could only come out on weekends to check on the project, their careful monitoring was very important to us. > We love our “new” house and especially appreciate the energy efficiency items that were incorporated into the project (geothermal heating and cooling, ventilation system, on demand hot water, hurricane proof windows, etc.) Energy costs were 20% lower this winter than last winter even though the winter was much more severe. > Also, thanks to the design, our FEMA insurance premiums are approximately the same as they were before Hurricane Sandy. If we had not made the changes Russ suggested, our premiums would have been at least $5000 higher per year (based on the post-Sandy quote before the changes were pointed out.) > We would definitely recommend CK Architects for your next project. **★★★★★ — Steve Spurrell, March 2014** > If you are considering hiring Mary Jo and Russ, \`do yourself a favor and do it now! Their professionalism and knowledge far exceed anyone that I have worked with before! In fact, they brought a completely different site orientation to the table that was never considered previously. It is simply amazing! > > I highly recommend them for any commercial or residential project that deserves attention to detail! **★★★★★ — ccdd1, Feb. 2014** > We worked with CK Architects on a full house remodeling project in 2013 and were very pleased with the process and result. CK Architects helped us with planning and bidding, and they also had some involvement overseeing construction. Their ideas were creative, beautiful and practical. It was a difficult project because of our very tight time frame for construction, and their excellent responsiveness and the level of detail they brought to planning helped to keep us on schedule and on budget. **★★★★★ — rpallenberg, Jan. 2014** > We hired CK architects to design and build a new office for our company. The project was lengthy and required over two years of work. Russ & Mary-Jo listened to every word we said and executed the project perfectly. They understood our wants and needs, and balanced them with the desire to preserve a historic building in the process. The time and detail they put into every piece of their work is unmatched; they spent hours presenting to teams of individuals, and made sure no question went unanswered. We could not be happier with the result. And, we're looking forward to working with them again in 2014 on a renovation project. **★★★★★ — Sachem Home Builders, Jan. 2014** > After interviewing 6 architectural firms, we selected CK Architects to design and supervise the construction of our new, FEMA regulated, oceanfront home. The Firm kept us within our strict budget, while providing a perfect design. Our project was rife with challenges, from zoning, to new FEMA regulations, to sheer proximity to the water; and CK expertly rose above all, helped us select a great builder, and we couldn't be happier with the outcome. **★★★★★ — kayjbutler, Dec. 2013** > Russ was a very thoughtful and responsive project manager. His designs were excellent and he was always mindful of including everyone's perspective in the design. This project had an aggressive timeline and we came in on time. > I would re-hire him and I have already recommended him to several colleagues. **★★★★★ — eltandler, Dec. 2013** > We hired CK architects to gut and renovate our kitchen. It entailed knocking down existing walls and putting up a new one on top of completely revamping all electrical circuits. We did not know what we could do with the space and CK architects developed 3 very original ideas of how to lay out the kitchen. We picked the one that fit our needs the best and went from there. > They are extremely professional and timely in their work and have a great attention to detail. They ensured all apects of the design were accounted for and were very thoughtful about ergonomics and flow of the layout. > We were extremely happy with the end results and could not imagine a better architect to work with. **★★★★★ — mariashank, Dec. 2013** > My Wife and I endeavored to gut and rehab an 1850 Italianate home near a historic Town Green. CK Architects listened and transformed our verbal vision on to paper exactly which led the contractors to a tremendous result. They helped us along the way as we encountered unforeseen challenges and taught us how to oversee the project. They used their expertise to make our home highly energy efficient as well. Our home, even being circa 1850, consumes the least energy among our five previous homes. > CK Architects (specifically Russ, MJ, Josh and Emily) earn our highest accolades and we are happy to speak with any of their potential clients as a reference. Photos of our project are on their website. **★★★★★ — hvcarby, Dec. 2013** > Hired CK Architects to completely redesign our house and make it energy efficient. We worked with them for almost two years. The entire process was a pleasure and they partnered us with a talented, friendly and reliable builder. This is a company that listens very carefully to their clients and is responsive to every detail and question. We felt fully involved at every stage of this large project and they were always very supportive and encouraging. They always clearly outlined every stage, from initial planning and drawings to finished design and they were always, always ready to assist with direction and advice. We had frequent meetings but we felt we could contact them any time we needed them. They also kept a very close eye on our budget, did not let us over extend our imaginations into fantasy. They had wonderful ideas for design and materials and met every deadline. The result is we have a beautiful energy efficient home that we love. **★★★★★ — User, Dec. 2013** > CK Architects provided plans and oversight for our complete renovation of a 1917 lake house seasonal cottage. They took the time and care to visit and discuss our memories of the house, the importance of various elements and our vision for the renovation. From there we worked closely to ensure a finished product that respected the history of the house and the lake front setting, while providing a comfortable and totally enjoyable year-round house. As might be expected with a house this old, surprises arose and each was dealt with professionally and cost-effectively. Family and visitors still marvel at how the character of the house was retained, while bringing it completely up to date. **★★★★★ — User, Dec. 2013** > Campaigne Kestner Architects are an outstanding team that deserve attention as an example of superb design and project management talent. Over and over again their creative insight, attention to detail, focus on sustainable and economical design come thru with grace and a professionalism that truly sets them apart. > I have worked with Mary Jo and Russ from ground zero to create a second home for our family in the woods of CT. They came highly recommended both by previous clients and contractors and they have surpassed all of our expectations. They are remarkable listeners and have reflected that in their documentation as well as their design. They have a commitment to their word and their projections on cost and quality that is very satisfying to work with. Contractors like to work with them and respect their style and expertise. I have significant experience in previous extensive remodels and residential building projects. I can't imagine ever doing an architectural project with another team after finding this gem! ## Selected projects - [Eagleview Homes](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/eagleview-homes-pj-vj~7488781) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 31 - Description: Eagleview Homes is shoreline luxury living at its finest. This four story condo allows for amazing views of Long Island Sound, capitalized by an outdoor kitchen and living space. The living room has large sliding doors that bring the outdoors in, and the open floor plan for the main living level connects the kitchen perfect for entertaining. Classic coastal details and finishes combined with an exterior palette of gunmetal gray windows, soft blue trim, red shingle siding and natural stone claddi… - [Orchard Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/orchard-estate-pj-vj~7692058) - Location: Branford, CT - Photos: 25 - [Harbor Watch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/harbor-watch-pj-vj~6676826) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 22 - Description: Our clients came to us inspired by the California vineyards of Howard Backen. They shared a vision for rebuilding their home in the style of a modern barn with simple, clean volumes, large window openings to take in the harbor views, a pallet of natural materials to add warmth & texture, and strategic lighting to add drama to the home. - [Hartford House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hartford-house-pj-vj~7691382) - Location: Madison, CT - Photos: 22 - [Woodlawn](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/woodlawn-pj-vj~7496408) - Location: Madison, CT - Photos: 24 - Description: With its close proximity to Long Island Sound, the design goal for the Woodlawn home was to bring a modern and updated feel without isolating it amongst its neighbors in the rather traditional shoreline community. The exterior volumes of the house are in scale with the adjacent properties, with traditional rooflines of gables and shed dormers on the second floor. Modernity was brought to the exterior with the metal roofing, gapped siding and black windows. The interior palette of the home utiliz… - [Meadow Wood](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/meadow-wood-pj-vj~7786430) - Location: Branford, CT - Photos: 21 - [Whitfield Gardens](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/whitfield-gardens-pj-vj~7497113) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 16 - Description: Having settled into their historic colonial home, our clients turned their interest to the outdoors where they dreamed of entertaining and nurturing their ideas of gardening. We created an escape and gathering place conceived as an elevated barn in the landscape. The pool house, featuring expansive pocketing doors, seamlessly connects the living space to the outdoors with a large deck crafted from weathered Ipe wood decking. The pool is surrounded by lush landscaping, raised garden beds and a pr… - [Old Sachems Head](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/old-sachems-head-pj-vj~7498320) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 27 - Description: The existing 1950s colonial home had some nice details but the layout on the first floor was not functional and really isolated the kitchen from the main living spaces. This renovation began with stripping away the connection to the existing garage and instead adding to the other side of the main volume to create a new kitchen, half bath and mudroom space that connected to a new large garage with living space above. The new barn-like garage with metal roofing and shiplap siding mimics the existi… - [Twin Gables](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/twin-gables-pj-vj~5553210) - Location: Madison, CT - Photos: 26 - Description: This magnificent coastal home is both a full-time residence and family retreat that welcomes with light and views to awake and restore residents and guests. The entrance drive gently sweeps toward the stately front entry porch and twin gables, while hinting at the expansive views to Long Island Sound that will be revealed inside. The house sits slightly elevated, affording protection from future storms. The front twin gable is reflected on the water side with a gracious porch and stair that tran… - [Falcon View](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/falcon-view-pj-vj~7503950) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 24 - Description: While renting across the street, the owners fell in love with this lot which sits high above the Long Island Sound and decided to make it their permanent home. They came to us with a vision of natural materials, open concept living, large windows, ample outdoor living space, multiple opportunities to maximize views, and an ability to age-in-place. We designed a home with different volumes nestled into the site, a front façade that offers glimpses of the expansive sights, and a rear façade that o… - [Wamphassuc](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wamphassuc-pj-vj~7527293) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - Description: This accessory building project in Stonington, CT elegantly embraces its picturesque setting on a point overlooking Long Island Sound. With a strong emphasis on minimal landscape disruption, the design prioritizes the preservation of existing specimen trees, creating a serene atmosphere reminiscent of a botanical garden. The building's exterior features a harmonious palette of natural stone, stucco, and corten steel, ensuring a seamless integration with the surrounding environment. Inside, the d… - [Seaside](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/seaside-pj-vj~5933856) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 24 - Description: The main goal for the renovation of an existing, FEMA compliant house was to maximize the outdoor living space and to capture the amazing views of the coastline. Three levels of outdoor living and large glass doors that fully open bring the outside in and create an oasis perfect for entertaining. Photos by Pete’s Precision Photography - [The Captain's Quarters](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-captain-s-quarters-pj-vj~6758194) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 23 - Description: The owners of this 1863 Italianate home came to us with the unique experience of having grown up in the house. The primary goal of the second-generation homeowners was to restore the house to its original grandeur, with a secondary focus on improving function and updating the building shell. Overall, existing details were repaired, recreated, or improved. The entry foyer was opened to its original layout, exposing the stair, and connecting the house to the new addition at the rear of the house.… - [Hartford Craftsman](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hartford-craftsman-pj-vj~7497064) - Location: Madison, CT - Photos: 23 - Description: At the heart of a cherished neighborhood, our clients entrusted us with the transformation of their summer cottage into a year-round home. The exterior remains inspired by traditional shoreline architecture with cedar shake siding and crisp white trim, while the interior is more playful with bright colors and unique tile accents. With a focus on craftsmanship, energy efficiency, and low maintenance detailing, this cheery home is the ideal retirement retreat. - [Middle Beach Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/middle-beach-cottage-pj-vj~89560) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 25 - Description: A 4500 sf year round home in a prestigious and charming shoreline neighborhood of Madison, Connecticut. The design presents the graceful lines, materials and details of a classic 1900’s shoreline retreat, while inside waits a near zero energy home that employs revolutionary conservation techniques and systems. When building science and shoreline aesthetic are gracefully married into this home, the result is an authentic coastal homestead that will be enjoyed for generations. - [Kingfisher](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kingfisher-pj-vj~7507707) - Location: Westbrook, CT - Photos: 21 - Description: This recently completed residential project on Long Island Sound is a stunning beachfront property, artfully navigating tight lot constraints and zoning restrictions. The design features a main house, pool, and a pool house, complemented by an in-law apartment situated above the garage with direct access to the main residence. The first floor boasts a large entertaining porch that maximizes water views and seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living spaces. On the second floor, two balconies o… - [Time Out / Out to Pasture](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/time-out-out-to-pasture-pj-vj~7507609) - Location: Madison, CT - Photos: 40 - Description: This well-built 1794 Cape Colonial came with many attractive details like wide plank hardwood flooring, central fireplace, functional layout and a level 1 acre lot with two outbuildings. It was a great start for our client who returned to this Connecticut shoreline town that she enjoyed as a child. The Main House interior received an overall refresh of finishes with efforts focused on updating the primary suite, guest baths, the kitchen and the butler’s pantry. The Main House exterior was enhanc… - [Spencer Cove](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spencer-cove-pj-vj~7282690) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 18 - Description: Captivated by the waterfront views, our clients purchased a 1980s shoreline residence that was in need of a modern update. They entrusted us with the task of adjusting the layout to meet their needs and infusing the space with a palette inspired by Long Island Sound – consisting of light wood, neutral stones and tile, expansive windows and unique lighting accents. The result is an inviting space for entertaining and relaxing alike, blending modern aesthetics with warmth seamlessly. - [House on First Lake](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-on-first-lake-pj-vj~6747629) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 22 - [River Run](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/river-run-pj-vj~5934660) - Location: Guilford, CT - Photos: 24 - Description: This colonial style house, originally built in 1803, was given a new life. By moving the kitchen and daily dining spaces to the back of the house, and opening up the floor plan, the family can now enjoy the breathtaking views of their riverside property. Additionally, roof lines were altered to increase second floor living space, and the overall aged interiors were brightened up. There was also an opportunity to transform the outbuildings on this property, making it an extra special place for th… [See all 56 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ck-architects-pfvwus-pf~1224773535) ## Ideabooks - [MEH saved images](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/169618002/list/meh-saved-images) — 4 ideas - [Beebe](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/97397991/list/beebe) — 12 ideas - [Tupper](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/86176088/list/tupper) — 4 ideas - [Boren](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/75623324/list/boren) — 2 ideas - [Exterior Color Schemes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/27948286/list/exterior-color-schemes) — 8 ideas - [Cooper CKA Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/72481117/list/cooper-cka-ideas) — 2 ideas - [CKA Rowen Idea Book](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/65461086/list/cka-rowen-idea-book) — 14 ideas - [CKA Reach Bookcase Stair](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/65467470/list/cka-reach-bookcase-stair) — 1 idea - [CKA 130 Twin Coves ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/56282322/list/cka-130-twin-coves-ideas) — 22 ideas - [Boissonneault Misc](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/49058573/list/boissonneault-misc) — 20 ideas - [reach stair](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/37869977/list/reach-stair) — 1 idea - [Misc. Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/27655923/list/misc-ideas) — 1 idea [See all 12 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/ckarchitects) ## Community Q&A **Q: What is the square footage of the porch?** *(in Photo Questions)* Trying to find 14 x 14 examples of a screened porch for furniture grouping ideas. Thanks! A: its 12 x 24 **Q: what kind of wood is this on the floor and how was it attached? thanks** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Ipe Decking 5/4x6 **Q: What kind/color/brand of flooring is this?** *(in Photo Questions)* What kind/color/brand of flooring is this? A: It is a French oak engineered flooring with a custom water based finish. **Q: how large is this outside structure?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: 10ft x 10ft **Q: what manufacturer & type of bracket did you use?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: It is a fypon bracket and can be ordered easily through a building yard if you show the picture. **Q: Lights** *(in Photo Questions)* These look like the Hinkley lights - can you advise if these are the small or medium size please? A: I do not have a record of the size. I think they are custom by a local manufacturer. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-16.*