--- title: "Altura Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/altura-architects-pfvwus-pf~184614702 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~184614702.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Altura Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/4043afa60f9ac113_8852-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "60 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, North Carolina 28801, United States" latitude: 35.5971 longitude: -82.5565 phone: "(828) 253-1124" website: https://alturaarchitects.com rating: 5 review_count: 7 best_of_houzz_awards: 6 followers: 589 last_updated: 2026-09-03 --- # Altura Architects Original Houzz profile: [Altura Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/altura-architects-pfvwus-pf~184614702) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Asheville, NC - **Serves:** Asheville, Hendersonville, Arden, Woodfin, Weaverville, Fairview, Avery Creek, Bryson City, Biltmore Forest, Bent Creek, Tryon, Marshall, Old Fort, Candler, Lake Toxaway, Mill Spring, Skyland - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (7 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2023), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves Altura Architects, formerly Samsel Architects, is an Asheville-based architecture firm with over thirty years of experience. Since our founding in 1985, we have been dedicated to creating exceptional designs for our clients and our community. This is made possible by the hard work of our dedicated and passionate staff and the trust of our clients. Through our collaborative studio environment, we provide creative and timeless design. We specialize in custom residential and commercial architecture including art galleries, retail, medical, hospitality and educational facilities. Our firm provides a broad scope of architectural services including new construction, home renovation, interior design consultation and historic preservation. We also have several LEED – Accredited Professionals in our firm and strive to incorporate environmentally sustainable design and green building principles throughout our work. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Custom Homes - New Home Construction - Sustainable Design - Energy-Efficient Homes - Green Building - Historic Building Conservation - Barn Design & Construction ### Areas Served - Asheville - Hendersonville - Arden - Woodfin - Weaverville - Fairview - Avery Creek - Bryson City - Biltmore Forest - Bent Creek - Tryon - Marshall - Old Fort - Candler - Lake Toxaway - Mill Spring - Skyland ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Altura Architects | | Address | 60 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, North Carolina 28801, United States | | Phone | (828) 253-1124 | | Website | https://alturaarchitects.com | | Followers on Houzz | 589 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — http://www.facebook.com/pages/samsel-architects-pa/59994954209 - X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/samselarchitect - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/company/samsel-architects - Blog — http://samselarchitects.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Altura Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/altura-architects-pfvwus-pf~184614702) - **Website:** https://alturaarchitects.com - **Phone:** (828) 253-1124 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - AIA North Carolina Firm Award, 2016 - Best of Houzz 2014: Client Satisfaction - Mountain Xpress Best Of 1st Place, Local Architect, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2023), for Design, 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) - [Green Built Alliance](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/green-built-alliance-pfvwus-pf~881622133) - [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315) - [AIA Asheville](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-asheville-pfvwus-pf~504686768) - [LEED AP](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/leed-ap-pfvwus-pf~1386238498) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 7 reviews** ### All 7 reviews **★★★★★ — Northside Design Collective, Jan. 2016** > We have only been working with the team at Samsel Architects for the last year, but we are looking forward to a continued collaboration. As interior designers, it is refreshing to work with an architectural firm that pays such attention to each and every detail. Because the details are thought out in advance and then discussed, designed, and drawn ahead of time, homes can be accurately quoted by the builder and then constructed in the field. We enjoy collaborating with both Nathan and Duncan and their team. They are talented and accomplished professionals and we highly recommend them for your renovation or new construction project. **★★★★★ — Carol Elizabeth Pennell REALTOR Asheville NC, Oct. 2015** > Samsel Architects and Carol Elizabeth Pennell like doing great work together! We refer clients often and are confident in each other's skill sets and sensitivity to the these beautiful mountains, we call home! Whether it is a restoration or new construction project, I for one have a smile on my face when I get to work with these talented designers and architects! **★★★★★ — marthabuoy, July 2013** > We worked with Samsel Architects on a residence and felt we could not have been in better hands. They take a lot of time to understand client needs and wants, while also advising on the best ideas to fit a specific site. Samsel Architects are experts at creating beautiful yet highly functional spaces, with an emphasis on natural materials and energy efficient design. They are also skilled communicators, and work to make sure clients understand every step of the design process, while actively seeking client input at key phases along the way. Five plus years after completion, we are still amazed and delighted every day by the lovely spaces within our home. **★★★★★ — Morgan-Keefe Builders, Inc., April 2013** > We have worked with Samsel Arcitects on several projects and had a great relationship...there attention to detail has made us a better builder. We highly recommend them. The team approach is something that is important in any project...it has been a successful venture with this firm! **★★★★★ — carl0, Jan. 2013** > Found them to be very professional. They worked with us to develop a schematic design for a moderate home that will be compatible with aging in place. Completely satisfied with the results. They also did an outstanding job of getting a variance approved so the project could proceed. **★★★★★ — terrymcpherson, Dec. 2012** > Incredible design quality and attention to detail. They made what could have been a stressful process into a fun and exciting process through great communication. We couldn't imagine using anyone else for our next project! **★★★★★ — April Love\_Fordham, Aug. 2012** > Outstanding architecture firm in every way!!! Love their look - really love the sustainability!!! First came across their work - the Eco Dorm on the Warren Wilson College Campus in Swanannoa, North Carolina. The Eco Dorm is an amazing place - not only earth friendly, solar powered, and sustainable, but it is designed with promoting student life in mind. It is a work of art! I plan to hire them for my next residence which I hope will be soon!!! ## Selected projects - [Swannanoa Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/swannanoa-residence-pj-vj~5537958) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 12 - Description: Located on a wooded lot with views to Craggy Mountain, this two-story modern mountain home serves as a comfortable and practical retreat for its residents. The owners came to our firm to help them create a quiet home where they could feel connected to nature. The main level is a bright and airy space that uses a minimal palette and generous windows. The lower level is a utilitarian space that serves as a screen-printing and woodworking studio. The home’s form is simple and geometric with a dark… - [Twin Oaks Residence North Asheville](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/twin-oaks-residence-north-asheville-pj-vj~5502536) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 22 - Description: The Twin Oaks Residence is located in a quiet North Asheville neighborhood and is named after two towering oaks that stand at the southern end of the lawn. The trees have long been a part of the landscape and we knew we had to design the home in deference to the oaks. The home, although new in construction, speaks to the past and tells the story of the property it sits on. We wanted the house to fit the character of the surrounding area, so the exterior massing is an interpreted shingle style ho… - [Mill Spring Modern Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mill-spring-modern-farmhouse-pj-vj~2786834) - Location: Mill Spring, NC - Photos: 23 - Description: This light-filled modern farmhouse in Mill Spring, North Carolina serves as a relaxing refuge for its owners. The home is tucked in the countryside on a horse farm with rolling pastures and beautiful mountain landscape. Our clients wanted a home that would be cozy for them and their dogs but could also maintain a comfortable feel when hosting extended family and friends. Our clients chose the Polk County property for the existing horse facilities on site, as well as the broader equestrian commun… - [The Cliffs at Walnut Cove](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-cliffs-at-walnut-cove-pj-vj~2079627) - Location: Arden, NC - Photos: 17 - Description: We drew inspiration from traditional prairie motifs and updated them for this modern home in the mountains. Throughout the residence, there is a strong theme of horizontal lines integrated with a natural, woodsy palette and a gallery-like aesthetic on the inside. - [West Asheville Small House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-asheville-small-house-pj-vj~2078206) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 5 - Description: This West Asheville small house is on an ⅛ acre infill lot just 1 block from the Haywood Road commercial district. With only 840 square feet, space optimization is key. Each room houses multiple functions, and storage space is integrated into every possible location. The owners strongly emphasized using available outdoor space to its fullest. A large screened porch takes advantage of the our climate, and is an adjunct dining room and living space for three seasons of the year. A simple form and… - [Fontana Lake House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fontana-lake-house-pj-vj~317358) - Location: Bryson City, NC - Photos: 17 - Description: The Fontana Bridge residence is a mountain modern lake home located in the mountains of Swain County. The LEED Gold home is designed to integrate harmoniously with the surrounding Appalachian mountain setting. The understated exterior and the thoughtfully chosen palette blend into the topography of the wooded hillside. Our clients sought this location to enjoy lake activities: boating, kayaking, swimming, campfires; the home is arranged to facilitate these pursuits. Expansive use of windows on t… - [Hammock House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hammock-house-pj-vj~1807888) - Location: Columbus, NC - Photos: 12 - Description: A new interpretation of utilitarian farm structures. This mountain modern home sits in the foothills of North Carolina and brings a distinctly modern element to a rural working farm. It got its name because it was built to structurally support a series of hammocks that can be hung when the homeowners family comes for extended stays biannually. The hammocks can easily be taken down or moved to a different location and allows the home to hold many people comfortably under one roof. - [East Tennessee Modern Rustic](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/east-tennessee-modern-rustic-pj-vj~2871069) - Location: Jonesborough, TN - Photos: 12 - Description: The residents of this East Tennessee Residence wanted a home with a Rocky Mountains aesthetic – rustic textures, heavy timber all grounded with natural stone, but also wanted to marry it with the vernacular of their East Tennessee mountain location. Our clients are a social family of four. Building a new home would give everyone their own private space, but plenty of areas for the family to spend time together and to entertain their extended social circle. The exterior of the home uses a natural… - [Town Mountain Asheville Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/town-mountain-asheville-residence-pj-vj~47902) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 11 - Description: Tucked into a hillside, this mountain modern house looks to blend in with its surroundings and take advantage of spectacular mountain views. Outdoor terraces and porches connect and expand the living areas to the landscape, while thoughtful placement of windows provide a visual connection to the outdoors. The home’s green building features include solar hot water panels, rainwater cisterns, high-efficiency insulation and FSC certified cedar shingles and interior doors. The home is Energy Star an… - [Craven Gap Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/craven-gap-residence-pj-vj~1258760) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 7 - Description: This modern passive solar residence sits on five acres of steep mountain land with great views looking down the Beaverdam Valley in Asheville, North Carolina. The house is on a south-facing slope that allowed the owners to build the energy efficient, passive solar house they had been dreaming of. Our clients were looking for decidedly modern architecture with a low maintenance exterior and a clean-lined and comfortable interior. We developed a light and neutral interior palette that provides a s… - [Downtown Asheville Loft](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/downtown-asheville-loft-pj-vj~2077819) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 8 - Description: Beautiful kitchen in a bright and light space inside this modern apartment renovation in downtown Asheville. Sleek, stainless steel appliances coordinate with the neutral color palette, creating the perfect backdrop for the resident's art collection. Bold blue was chosen for the kitchen to add a pop of color. Interesting kitchen lights also provide a perch for art pieces. Photography by Todd Crawford - [Beaucatcher Barn Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/beaucatcher-barn-home-pj-vj~2077970) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 13 - Description: This modern rustic barn home sits on Beaucatcher Mountain in Asheville, NC. The three-story home has four bedrooms and four and a half baths. The homeowners bought a century-old barn and we integrated the timber frame into a new home, incorporating nearly every timber as a structural or design feature. Century-old columns, beams, and diagonal braces give this home an extraordinary, rustic charm. As you enter the house, there is a breathtaking view through large sunroom windows across the valley.… - [Madison County Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/madison-county-residence-pj-vj~48001) - Location: Mars Hill, NC - Photos: 6 - Description: Located on rolling farmland, this modern interpretation of a contemporary farmhouse has expansive glass to capture mountain views and passive solar heating. The mountain modern home’s green building features include rainwater cisterns, high-efficiency insulation and locally harvested wood throughout the interior. Outdoor spaces expand the living area and create a strong connection to the mountain landscape. - [Old Fort Cabin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/old-fort-cabin-pj-vj~688967) - Location: Old Fort, NC - Photos: 7 - Description: This mountain modern cabin outside of Asheville serves as a simple retreat for our clients. They are passionate about fly-fishing, so when they found property with a designated trout stream, it was a natural fit. We developed a design that allows them to experience both views and sounds of the creek and a relaxed style for the cabin - a counterpoint to their full-time residence. The land around the cabin created significant challenges. Remote and steep land limited access for larger vehicles and… - [Lewis Gap Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lewis-gap-renovation-pj-vj~1643932) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 8 - Description: This home, located above Asheville on Town Mountain Road, has a long history with Samsel Architects. Our firm first renovated this 1940s home more than 20 years ago. Since then, it has changed hands and we were more than happy to complete another renovation for the new family. The new homeowners loved the home but wanted more updated look with modern touches. The basic footprint of the house stayed the same with changes to the front entry and decks, a master-suite addition and complete Kitchen r… - [North Mountain Asheville Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/north-mountain-asheville-residence-pj-vj~48008) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 7 - Description: This custom mountain modern home in north Asheville is a unique interpretation of mountain modern architecture with a Japanese influence. Spectacular views of the Blue Ridge mountains and downtown Asheville are enjoyed from many rooms. Thoughtful attention was given to materials, color selection and landscaping to ensure the home seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. The home showcases custom millwork, cabinetry, and furnishings by Asheville artists and craftsmen. - [Lenoir Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lenoir-residence-pj-vj~1207184) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 3 - Description: This home combines function, efficiency and style. The homeowners had a limited budget, so maximizing function while minimizing square footage was critical. We used a fully insulated slab on grade foundation of a conventionally framed air-tight building envelope that gives the house a good baseline for energy efficiency. High efficiency lighting, appliance and HVAC system, including a heat exchanger for fresh air, round out the energy saving measures. Rainwater was collected and retained on site… - [Lakeview Park Asheville Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lakeview-park-asheville-renovation-pj-vj~120131) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 7 - Description: This renovation in north Asheville has updated finishes and modernization throughout while still maintaining the style and layout of the original house. New insulation and heating and cooling systems dramatically improves the comfort and energy efficiency. - [Kenilworth Asheville Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kenilworth-asheville-renovation-pj-vj~120137) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 8 - Description: This mid-century mountain modern home was originally designed in the early 1950s. The house has ample windows that provide dramatic views of the adjacent lake and surrounding woods. The current owners wanted to only enhance the home subtly, not alter its original character. The majority of exterior and interior materials were preserved, while the plan was updated with an enhanced kitchen and master suite. Added daylight to the kitchen was provided by the installation of a new operable skylight.… - [Bent Creek Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bent-creek-renovation-pj-vj~2169537) - Location: Asheville, NC - Photos: 10 - Description: This Bent Creek renovation and addition gave the existing 1920s home a spacious interior and modern design while still maintaining its original character. The homeowners enjoy hosting large gatherings, but the narrow footprint and small spaces created a lot of congestion inside. To alleviate this problem, the homeowners wanted to expand the cramped kitchen and living spaces, but a huge oak tree sat only 5 feet from the kitchen window. The tree holds great sentimental value to the owners, so sacr… [See all 33 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/altura-architects-pfvwus-pf~184614702) ## Ideabooks - [Hilty - Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/72649685/list/hilty-interiors) — 43 ideas - [Sizemore Cabin](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/116076471/list/sizemore-cabin) — 16 ideas - [Hilty - Exteriors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/71192532/list/hilty-exteriors) — 52 ideas - [Homes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/94781907/list/homes) — 18 ideas - [Daiberl](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/108492849/list/daiberl) — 1 idea - [Modern Farm-Barn](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/108165338/list/modern-farm-barn) — 33 ideas - [Park Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/107340249/list/park-architecture) — 10 ideas - [McDougald Exterior](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/106186443/list/mcdougald-exterior) — 9 ideas - [Riverview Predent](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61852257/list/riverview-predent) — 15 ideas - [Hanig Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/106231366/list/hanig-interiors) — 1 idea - [McDougald Interior](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/106186505/list/mcdougald-interior) — 2 ideas - [Riverview Duplex](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/90101155/list/riverview-duplex) — 10 ideas - [Meador](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/81732560/list/meador) — 9 ideas - [Ferguson - ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/60475847/list/ferguson-ideas) — 25 ideas - [Winemiller lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/70731117/list/winemiller-lighting) — 6 ideas - [Ferguson - Pool](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/65110501/list/ferguson-pool) — 24 ideas - [Ferguson Tile](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/60946892/list/ferguson-tile) — 13 ideas [See all 17 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/alturaarchitects) ## Community Q&A **Q: I’m curious what barn door hardware that is?** *(in Photo Questions)* For the doors that cover the LCD in the game room, which manufacturer is the hardware from? A: The barn door hardware is from Rocky Mountain Hardware. This house is several years old at this point, so they might not have the same hardware these days. Thanks for your question! **Q: What type of siding is this?** *(in Photo Questions)* Is it cedar ship lap? A: It is cedar. Thanks for your question **Q: brick floor source** *(in Photo Questions)* Love these floors! We’re they pre -existing or do you have any details you can share? A: The brick floor is original from the 1950s. **Q: what type of siding was used? Absolutely beautiful!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: The siding is white oak with a finish on it from LifeTime Wood company. **Q: Great use of a small space!** *(in Photo Questions)* Would you please share the dimensions of this space? Thank you! A: The room is 22' x 13.5' **Q: what is the bronze material surrounding the fireplace?** *(in Photo Questions)* Love this look! if you can lmk what the bronze material surrounding the fireplace I would appreciate it!!! A: The fireplace surround is corten steel. Thanks for your question! --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-03.*