--- title: "Nautilus Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nautilus-architects-pfvwus-pf~1291969681 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1291969681.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Nautilus Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/e6b3af240edb85e0_1142-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "9 Halls Road, Old Lyme, Connecticut 06371, United States" latitude: 41.3347 longitude: -72.3086 phone: "(860) 227-1169" website: http://www.nautilusarchitects.com rating: 5 review_count: 58 best_of_houzz_awards: 15 followers: 498 last_updated: 2026-09-15 --- # Nautilus Architects Original Houzz profile: [Nautilus Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nautilus-architects-pfvwus-pf~1291969681) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Old Lyme, CT - **Serves:** Connecticut, florida, maine, New England, new jersey, New York, rhode island, Southampton - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (58 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 15 awards (2013–2025), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 25,000 Ideabook Saves Christopher Arelt's practice involves collaboration and interpretation, with each design evolving in its own way in response to the site, context and client. Arelt's work is seen as a continuation of, but also a response to Modernism; or, more specifically, a return to regionalism and artistry, where clients' projects are developed with the "heads, hearts and hands" of all those involved. All of our buildings explore the use of natural light, reveal the inherent beauty of the materials being used, and bring the outdoors in. www.nautilusarchitects.com Two Office locations: Southampton New York and Old Lyme Connecticut serving Darien, Fairfield, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Rowayton, Southport, Stamford, Westport, Lyme, Old Lyme, Essex, Mystic and all of New England, Connecticut, Hamptons Long Island, Rhode Island, New York and the Tri State area. Specializing in Contemporary, Modern and Coastal Residential Designs for all of New England. "Chris was terrific! I needed help in creating a fresh identity for our 1986 contemporary home. This was an extremely small project which Chris treated with the same respect, attention to detail, and design excellence as he would a much larger project." - A satisfied client ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Sustainable Design - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Green Building - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Universal Design - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Basement Design - Deck Design - Site Preparation - Landscape Plans - Laundry Room Design - 3D Home Design - Construction Drawings - Contemporary Architecture - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Connecticut - florida - maine - New England - new jersey - New York - rhode island - Southampton ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 20 million Two studios: Southampton New York and Old Lyme Connecticut ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Nautilus Architects | | Address | 9 Halls Road, Old Lyme, Connecticut 06371, United States | | Phone | (860) 227-1169 | | Website | http://www.nautilusarchitects.com | | License Number | ARI.0008418 | | Followers on Houzz | 498 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — www.facebook.com/nautilusarchitects - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=ADEAAAF7ysUBT1ozZIxcFn25zV5Y2rcHOOEvkwc&authType=NAME\_SEARC - Blog — www.nautilusarchitects.com ## Offers HOW TO EVALUATE AN ARCHITECT _Contact Us For Complimentary Copy_ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Nautilus Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nautilus-architects-pfvwus-pf~1291969681) - **Website:** http://www.nautilusarchitects.com - **Phone:** (860) 227-1169 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Innovation In Design Award Architecture 2023, 2017 & 2012 - 7X Finalist - Innovation In Design Award Kitchen Design 2023 and 2012 - Best of Houzz Design and Service since 2013 - Best Small Spaces Innovation In Design 2012 - HOBI Award 2013 Home Builders Association - **Best of Houzz:** 15 awards (2013–2025), for Design, Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 58 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 49.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Maine Summer Home, May 2025** > Nautilus and Chris are the best kind of architect. He has the vision, expertise, and experience to create remarkable designs and see them through to construction. While he has his own strong creative ideas he listens carefully and collaborates with the owner to create a design that works both aesthetically and to support the owner's lifestyle. And, while he is interested in excellence, he is conscious of costs and works hard to find solutions within a budget. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Chris and Nautilus and highly recommend them to anyone interested in great design. **★★★★★ — Derek Pirruccello, Dec. 2024** > We knew we had one chance to re-imagine, design, and (re-)build our forever home. Situated on a special river front property, the house had a unique footprint and hidden potential requiring the experience and expertise of an architect versed in modern design. I was delighted to discover we had a talented candidate in our back yard in Chris (Sensitive Information Hidden) of Nautilus Architects. Chris patiently worked with us throughout a long design and planning period, while providing attentive guidance, a deep network of relationships, and leadership from beginning to end of construction. We’ve lived in the house for nearly two years now and appreciate daily the small and grand decisions thoughtfully made which altogether combine into something unique, energy efficient, healthy, and effortlessly livable. Chris is the complete package and well worth considering if you aspire to create something truly special. **★★★★★ — Michael Ferraro, June 2024** > Chris is a true professional and absolute pleasure to work with. Great communication, ideas, and execution. You won't regret choosing Nautilus Architects! **Comment from Nautilus Architects:** > Thank you Michael for your kind words! I look forward to our growing relationship! **★★★★★ — 135baxter, June 2024** > Chris is creative and able to work independently or within the needs of the client. He interacts well with the builder and answers questions in a timely manner. **★★★★★ — Bella's Bathroom, June 2024** > I recently had the pleasure of working with Chris on a home remodeling project. His work is incredible, and his portfolio is jaw-dropping. Although my project was much smaller than what he normally works on, he still took the time to work with me. Chris was the perfect choice to help me reconfigure a space that had no room for expansion. He took his time with us, asking questions about our lifestyle and needs. He took in our style and thought outside of the box to create an open space while still keeping the tradition of my home. I had interviewed other architects who told me the only way to reconfigure a small cape code style home was by adding onto the house. Chris came up with a solution that has a great flow and will change the entire visual impact. He is honest, reliable, and easy to talk with. If you are looking for an architect, I highly recommend Chris! **Comment from Nautilus Architects:** > Thank you so much Sara! I can't wait to see the transformation unfold! **★★★★★ — Laura Spector design, May 2024** > After numerous months of research and planning , I still Couldn’t hit the go button . I felt Like something was off. I’m an artist so I do Know my way around most design projects but when it came to reconfiguring the powder room into a full guest bath I was At a loss at to how to bring my vision to life > Chris understood exactly what I was Trying to achieve and he knew how to get me there > From layout to efficiency ideas we achieved everything I was Hoping for . Chris is generous , easy and fun to work with resourceful and gifted > Best idea I had Was bringing Nautilus on board to realize my dream remodel ‼️ > Just a wonderful experience all around **Comment from Nautilus Architects:** > Thank you Laura and so great to get to know you. I look forward to many more design adventures. **★★★★★ — Maria DeFiore from Ring's End, July 2023** > Chris has a unique, modern eye that always makes his projects sparkle! If you are looking for something special, you should check him out! I have worked with him for over the past 10 years and enjoy his creative mindset and talent that he always brings to the table! **★★★★★ — Jonathan Andrews, July 2023** > As a contractor myself, it was a pleasure to work with Nautilus Architects on my last project. Chris Arelt is a creative, fountain of knowledge when it comes to custom home design. His projects are one of a kind holding true to your vision as well as his. The bar is set by Nautilus Architects and everyone else is simply trying to keep up! **★★★★★ — Charles C. Brown, July 2023** > I have worked with Nautilus Architects and Chris Arlet for the past 6 years as an independent structural consultant. I have been impressed with Chris’s professionalism and his attention to detail. I have worked with many different contacts in the design and construction industry in my 40 plus years as an engineer and Nautilus Architects are one of the best. **★★★★★ — Deborah Maffettone, July 2023** > Chris is a pleasure to work with. His professionalism and extreme attention to detail are refreshing and appreciated by everyone who works with him on each project. Every home he designs is a work of art and blends his expression together with that of his clients creating a unique atmosphere of craftsmanship and devotion to his trade. A Master of Architecture is what he is known as and is well respected by his peers, which is the highest compliment. **★★★★★ — Sherrilyn Kuzel-Flannery, July 2023** > Chris Arelt is a talented, and considerate architect. He listens to his clients needs and works closely with all the trades to bring their dreams to fulfillment. Chris is a professional who transforms building designs into reality, ensuring functionality, safety, and a creative vision. I have worked with Chris on several residential projects and I have enjoyed collaborating with him. > Sherrilyn Flannery > Tile America **★★★★★ — Michael Petersohn, June 2023** > Chris and his team are great to work with. Their innovative designs are both sleek and sophisticated. I love that they mix a variety of mediums and design elements. ## Selected projects - [Coastal Modern Sustainable Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coastal-modern-sustainable-design-pj-vj~7539341) - Location: Old Lyme, CT - Photos: 22 - Description: The setting for this project is a quiet residential neighborhood in the largely traditional town of Old Lyme, Connecticut. A small, heavily wooded site, choked with invasives and sloping steeply down from the street, had scared away would-be buyers and the lot had languished for some time. The buyer of this lot had a vision for a building that would address the street, despite the sloping terrain, and take full advantage of the southern exposure and distant water views to the rear. It would requ… - [Classic New England Farmhouse Renovation and Update](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-new-england-farmhouse-renovation-and-update-pj-vj~7640534) - Location: Lyme, Connecticut - Photos: 8 - Description: Classic New England farmhouse reconfiguring and opening up layout for sucessful update for Aging In Place couple. - [Waterfront Stone Modern Home and Infinity Pool and Guest House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waterfront-stone-modern-home-and-infinity-pool-and-guest-house-pj-vj~7231493) - Location: Lyme, CT - Photos: 32 - Description: A sleek and sophisticated house of glass, steel, and exposed concrete sits beside an infinity edge pool with a sunset view. The homeowners had some abstract spatial ideas, one of them being that perhaps the house could be seen though, to the cove beyond. - [Contemporary Beach House Long Island Sound Coastal Resilient Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-beach-house-long-island-sound-coastal-resilient-design-pj-vj~7231513) - Location: Old Lyme, CT - Photos: 19 - Description: Waterfront design often involves specialized construction practices. Such was the case at this beachfront second home, which is elevated on concrete piers to sit above the flood plain, supported by helical stainless -steel piles drilled through sand to reach bedrock, and moment-framed in steel to resist the lateral forces of hurricane winds. The building is actually two pieces linked by a stair and deck, with the rear portion serving as two stacked rental units and the front as the owner’s summe… - [Contemporary Lake House Shingle Style Radiant Floor Heat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-lake-house-shingle-style-radiant-floor-heat-pj-vj~7237382) - Location: East Haddam, CT - Photos: 12 - Description: Many of our projects are subject to the complexity of zoning, flood and historic regulations, we have developed an expertise in residential design that is sensitive to the coastline, its site, and surroundings. This three-story building has a master suite occupying the entire third floor. The bed is centered on giant, bi-parting glass doors, and the rest of the wall is all glass as well. The proximity of the bed to the doors, and the balcony outside, create a sensation of being propelled out ove… - [Mid Century Modern Waterfront Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-waterfront-renovation-pj-vj~7498083) - Location: Waterford, CT - Photos: 20 - Description: The bones of an unassuming, split-level ranch held untapped potential.Inspired by a trip to Modernism Week in Palm Springs, CA. we returned with a freshly-formed conviction that the building could become an East Coast version of the hip, glassy,highly-livable Mid-Century style normally associated with the West Coast. The core characteristic s-split-level, deep overhangs, low roof pitch-were currently unenhanced by confused fenestration and a drab olive board and batten siding. We reimagined the… - [Waterfront Classic White Clapboard and Green Asphalt Roof](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waterfront-classic-white-clapboard-and-green-asphalt-roof-pj-vj~6846125) - Location: Essex, CT - Photos: 23 - Description: Located on a historic site along the Connecticut River this home was designed to embrace a traditional feel with country side elegance. Diamond patterns, wood inlay, stone walls and interior details evoke another time period but in a refreshing way that is warm and cozy. - [Get To Know Us](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/get-to-know-us-pj-vj~7640376) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - [Infinity Pool Guest House Outdoor and Indoor Fireplace In Pool Hot Tub](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/infinity-pool-guest-house-outdoor-and-indoor-fireplace-in-pool-hot-tub-pj-vj~350868) - Location: Old Lyme, CT - Photos: 24 - Description: Winner Best Architecture Innovation In Design Located on a rise overlooking the Connecticut River, this west-facing site was rife with potential for commanding sunset views and linking an infinity-edge pool with the waterscape vista. The response was creation of a terrace plinth supporting a pool house, pool, and outdoor living space, skirted on the downhill (water) side by a planting tier that eliminates the need for railings of any kind. The pool and view are framed by a custom sail-shade stru… - [Ash Wood Concrete Waterfall Island Countertop Dining Room Glass Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ash-wood-concrete-waterfall-island-countertop-dining-room-glass-addition-pj-vj~7231527) - Location: Madison, CT - Photos: 14 - Description: A new recipe was needed to make a new footprint for this dining and kitchen space to function and look better. The existing 80’s – style contemporary home had tall ceilings, but taller is not necessarily better. By reimagining the volumes and proportions the new 12’ ceilings coexist nicely with other spaces while taking on an improved character all its own. - [Modern Waterfront Renovation on Marshland Tide](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-waterfront-renovation-on-marshland-tide-pj-vj~1236768) - Location: Old Lyme, CT - Photos: 33 - Description: Located on a marsh in the upper reaches of the Lieutenant River in Old Lyme, the existing house was well-sited and well-built, but the design failed to exploit the views and more importantly was a confused combination of contemporary and traditional elements. The new homeowners, a successful businesswoman and an accomplished artist and photographer, were interested in creating a fully-contemporary environment to open up space, connect indoors with outdoors, display artwork and showcase the husba… - [Long Island Sound Coastal Resilient Renovation with Expansive Sliding Glass](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/long-island-sound-coastal-resilient-renovation-with-expansive-sliding-glass-pj-vj~7266558) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: Beautifully detailed waterfront home overlooking the Long Island Sound. The centerpiece of this contemporary shingle style waterfront home is a square, double height volume whose corner opens up to a fifteen-foot clearance and appears magically unsupported. The family room is positioned at an angle to the views of the Sound, which might pose a problem if there were a supporting column in the corner. By using steel to create a cantilever, the column is eliminated so that, when the sliding doors p… - [Guest House with Pool, Detached Barn/Workshop and Glass Green House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/guest-house-with-pool-detached-barn-workshop-and-glass-green-house-pj-vj~23992) - Location: Lyme, CT - Photos: 28 - Description: Take a look at the image of the living/dining space with doors opening to a pool beyond. This is an elegant, finely-appointed room with aged, hand-hewn beams, dormered clerestory windows, and radiant heated limestone floors. But the real power of the space derives less from these handsome details and more from the wide opening centered on the pool. The occupants of the room feel like they’re poolside, even while inside. When they’re entertaining, it matters little whether guests are on the terra… - [Renovated Transitional Open Plan Special Needs](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/renovated-transitional-open-plan-special-needs-pj-vj~7266550) - Location: Essex, CT - Photos: 14 - Description: The homeowners include a 22-year old son with muscular dystrophy. The project began with the search for an existing home that could accommodate his and the family’s needs, in particular the ability for him to have a distinct environment yet be connected to the larger whole. - [Mid-Century Modern Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-renovation-pj-vj~928535) - Location: Essex, CT - Photos: 35 - Description: Cathedral ceilings and seamless cabinetry complement this kitchen’s river view The low ceilings in this ’70s contemporary were a nagging issue for the 6-foot-8 homeowner. Plus, drab interiors failed to do justice to the home’s Connecticut River view. By raising ceilings and removing non-load-bearing partitions, architect Christopher Arelt was able to create a cathedral-within-a-cathedral structure in the kitchen, dining and living area. Decorative mahogany rafters open the space’s height, introd… - [Upstate New York Family Retreat and Estate with Artist Studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/upstate-new-york-family-retreat-and-estate-with-artist-studio-pj-vj~24326) - Location: Germantown, NY - Photos: 18 - Description: Multi level home new construction for NYC family to retreat together and relax in this ultimate art filled home built for generations to come. Full size in ground pool, extensive garden, views of the catskill mountains, custom built in and details. - [Waterfront Tower](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waterfront-tower-pj-vj~7263600) - Location: Old Saybrook, CT - Photos: 9 - [Special Needs Aging In Place Accessibility](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/special-needs-aging-in-place-accessibility-pj-vj~2904287) - Location: Bridgeport, CT - Photos: 5 - Description: The homeowners include a 22-year old son with muscular dystrophy. The project began with the search for an existing home that could accommodate his and the family’s needs, in particular the ability for him to have a distinct environment yet be connected to the larger whole. - [Watch Hill, Rhode Island Coastal Shingle Style](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/watch-hill-rhode-island-coastal-shingle-style-pj-vj~350910) - Location: Westerly, RI - Photos: 8 - Description: Watch Hill, Rhode Island Custom shingle style homes - [Vineyard & Landscape Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vineyard-and-landscape-design-pj-vj~350814) - Location: Stonington, CT - Photos: 7 - Description: Updated airport hangar converted to vineyard and reception facility with thoughtful details. [See all 22 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nautilus-architects-pfvwus-pf~1291969681) ## Ideabooks - [Fagerberg-Mehaffie](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/185702782/list/fagerberg-mehaffie) — 1 idea - [Blood Street](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/179245504/list/blood-street) — 6 ideas - [KILROY NEW RESIDENCE](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/177317290/list/kilroy-new-residence) — 12 ideas - [Kids Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145689593/list/kids-room) — 5 ideas - [Cedar Lake Living Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/4785315/list/cedar-lake-living-room) — 3 ideas - [Architectural Crosswords designed by Chris Arelt](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/12193819/list/architectural-crosswords-designed-by-chris-arelt) — 1 idea - [Cedar Lake kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/4651718/list/cedar-lake-kitchen) — 5 ideas - [Bringing the Outdoors In](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2217184/list/bringing-the-outdoors-in) — 8 ideas - [Master Bedroom](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/4664090/list/master-bedroom) — 1 idea [See all 9 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/chrisarelt) ## Community Q&A **Q: pavers around pool** *(in Photo Questions)* What pavers were used around the pool area? A: Granite **Q: regarding pebbles** *(in Photo Questions)* Do you have leakage of shower water underneath the glass because of the pebbles not being totally flat? A: The pebbles are pitched toward the floor drain **Q: What is the countertop material?** *(in Photo Questions)* Hello, would you be able to share the name of the countertop material? It looks lovely. Thanks in advance for your help. A: The countertop material is DEKTON **Q: Pool finish?** *(in Photo Questions)* What is the material & color of the finish in the pool? It's gorgeous. A: Pebble Fina Sapphire **Q: Wood counters** *(in Photo Questions)* Do you know the wood species and stain color? A: The wood is walnut and it clear finished. No stain. **Q: is the infinity pool much harder to keep up? costly to install?** *(in Photo Questions)* trying to decide b between a regular pool and one with an infinity edge. Do you find this hi maintenance? Was the initial cost much over the cost of the same pool without the edge? A: Good morning. Infinity edge pools are considerably more expensive. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-15.*