--- title: "RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ramsay-gourd-architects-pfvwus-pf~1954615965 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1954615965.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/a2a358610e5a2c12_9155-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "62 Highland Ave, MANCHESTER, Vermont 05255, United States" latitude: 43.1693 longitude: -73.0474 phone: "(802) 362-1480" website: http://RGAvt.com rating: 5 review_count: 13 best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 97 last_updated: 2026-08-17 --- # RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS Original Houzz profile: [RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ramsay-gourd-architects-pfvwus-pf~1954615965) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** MANCHESTER, VT - **Serves:** Manchester, Arlington, Manchester Center, Dorset, Rupert, Peru, Stratton, South Londonderry, East Dorset, Bondville, Connecticut, East Arlington, Massachusetts, New England, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, West Rupert, West Wardsboro - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (13 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2018), for Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves Your home is a personal reflection of who you are and what your outlook on the world is. At Ramsay Gourd Architects, we see ourselves as portrait makers, carefully crafting spaces to reflect the unique character of each client. This highly personal process forges strong relationships and is why we have so many repeat clients! Check out some of our magazine covers and featured articles in the September/October 2015 issues of House Beautiful and DESIGN New England! Copy and paste the links below. http://digital.designnewengland.com/designnewengland/september\_october\_2015?pg=2\#pg2 http://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/house-tours/g2552/colorful-vermont-farmhouse/ Founded in 1996, Ramsay Gourd Architects is located in Manchester, Vermont's Historic Depot District as well as in Burlington, Vermont. Our varied portfolio represents the wide range of clients and contexts we have worked with. We believe that a successful project is a built portrait of its inhabitants, and reflects the time and place in which it is built. Our partnerships with outstanding craftsmen, along with clients committed to creating a legacy of enduring design, have resulted in projects befitting their contexts of time, place, and culture. Materials are thoughtfully detailed to logically compliment one another and respond to the elements of nature. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Floor Plans - Energy-Efficient Homes - 3D Rendering - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Space Planning - Universal Design - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Basement Remodeling - 3d home design - Custom Furniture - Interior Design - architecture - furniture design - home restoration - product design - remodeling ### Areas Served - Manchester - Arlington - Manchester Center - Dorset - Rupert - Peru - Stratton - South Londonderry - East Dorset - Bondville - Connecticut - East Arlington - Massachusetts - New England - New Jersey - New York - Vermont - West Rupert - West Wardsboro ### Typical Job Cost $20,000 - 3 million No project is too small for us to consider. And we strive to be the best value for our clients. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS | | Address | 62 Highland Ave, MANCHESTER, Vermont 05255, United States | | Phone | (802) 362-1480 | | Website | http://RGAvt.com | | Followers on Houzz | 97 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/Ramsay-Gourd-Architects-395202470568954/ - Blog — rgavt.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ramsay-gourd-architects-pfvwus-pf~1954615965) - **Website:** http://RGAvt.com - **Phone:** (802) 362-1480 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - AIA, NCARB, BBJ Best of the Best 2013 & 2014, Best of HOUZZ - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2018), for Design. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 13 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Daphne Markcrow, Nov. 2016** > Ramsay is a consummate professional with unerring taste. He is thoughtful and reflective and guides the process with a gentle yet firm hand. I loved working with him and his great staff. Our project went smoothly from design inception through the build and final punch list items. There were no unexpected surprises and many trades said it was one of the best designed and built houses they have ever worked on. Could not endorse Ramsay and his firm with any more enthusiasm!! **Comment from RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS:** > Thank you Daphne! It is always a treat working with you. I'm glad we got to do another project together! **★★★★★ — pattiprairie, July 2016** > Ramsay Gourd is an architecture virtuoso. That's why we hired him for 3 separate multi-million $ projects over the past 15 years. > > In 2001 Ramsay designed an extraordinary primary residence for us in Vermont. In 2006 before purchase of a 2nd home in Massachusetts, we turned to him to ensure its major remodeling was feasible and then to develop the plans to do just that. After we moved to Southern California in 2011 and decided to build again, we interviewed local architects and then hired Ramsay for our new home even though he was 3,000 miles away. > > Having worked with several architects on other projects before meeting Ramsay, I can attest that he has all the typical skills. What sets him apart, though, is 1.) his preternatural ability to envision creative and beautiful architectural solutions for daunting problems, and 2.) his attention for detail to fashion holistic designs with integrity and quality. **★★★★★ — coopershawkre, April 2015** > After firing another architect before we even got started on the project as no progress had been made for months, Ramsay stepped in and saved the day. He is so creative yet adheres to the traditional guidelines of architecture (academics) and proportion. We reviewed many of his projects which showcased his ability to create many different design styles and were ready to start. Ramsay listens carefully yet expresses an educated opinion, is highly adept at incorporating your ideas into his plans, is very responsive and timely, is very detailed and organized and, always with a smile on his face, is so much fun to work with. I looked forward to each and every meeting as he always moved the project forward, but thoroughly and thoughtfully. Ramsay designed an amazing house for us and, with plans in hand, we will be ready to build at any time. We have worked with a number of architects over the years, and Ramsay is one of the most talented. We would love to have the opportunity to work with him again on another project and would highly recommend him without any reservations. **Comment from RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS:** > Thank you for your kind words. I really enjoyed working with you! **★★★★★ — Karen Walla, April 2015** > My experience with Ramsey Gourd and his team was with my home renovation. Ramsey designed a beautiful dormer in a finished attic space and also an attached garage. His designs were beautiful and fit in very well with the architecture of the existing buildings. However, what was invaluable is that Ramsey is so respected in our town, where the zoning rules are very strict. The permitting process went very smoothly and our project was supported in our community. The entire process was stress free. **★★★★★ — madmartha5, April 2015** > Ramsay Gourd is a gifted and creative architect. He is an exceptional eye for detail and the ability to visualize what others can't. He is mindful of providing the best value for budget. **★★★★★ — Chris Quinn, April 2015** > We have had the opportunity to work with Ramsay and his team on multiple projects and look forward to more. They have exceptional depth in design and building knowledge and fantastic personal skills interacting with the builder and client team. They meet deadlines on deliverables and have a very clearly structured offering of services and fees. Ramsay and his team bring the full package of services in an efficient and cost effective manner. As the builder we appreciate his genuine interest engaging us through all phases of design development. **Comment from RAMSAY GOURD ARCHITECTS:** > It is always a pleasure working with the Red House team! We've done some very interesting projects together and look forward to continuing our relationship. **★★★★★ — Rebecca and Marc Gamble, March 2015** > Ramsay Gourd was a true pleasure to work with. His creativity, professionalism and attention to detail are unparalleled. Ramsay thoughtfully designed a beautiful, unique and timeless new home in Vermont for our family, as a primary residence. He was there from start to finish, and beyond - from the initial concept, to final drawings, to helping hire the builder, to selecting tile, fixtures, etc., to follow-up, Ramsay's knowledge and ability to work with everyone involved in the process was terrific. He was equally skilled at sourcing high-end when we wanted it, and budget-conscious when we needed it, always focusing on quality. We are thrilled with our house, and I highly recommend Ramsay Gourd Architects. **★★★★★ — carajzimmerman, March 2015** > Ramsay designs beautiful homes. He is creative and has a unique and individualized vision for every home he designs. He is also very good at maximizing space. We have hired Ramsay to help us renovate two very different homes - one a traditional New England colonial in Boston, MA and another Vermont style farm house. We needed both homes to function well for a big family but wanted to make sure that we maintained the original feel and look of both houses and we think that Ramsay accomplished these goals. For the first home, we added a large family room, mudroom and master bath and then also rearranged the upstairs to accommodate a linen closet and larger bathrooms for our children. For the second home, we redesigned the mudroom/laundry room, finished the basement, remodeled bathrooms and bedrooms and then added on a large pantry and incredibly cool screened in porch. Ramsay is easy to work with - he is timely, available when needed and communicates effectively and efficiently with both the homeowner and contractor. We cannot say enough good things about our experiences with Ramsay Gourd Architects. **★★★★★ — laurendbryant, March 2015** > It has been our pleasure to work with Ramsay Gourd Architects on a variety of projects including renovations and new build construction for hospitality properties. Ramsay is very easy to communicate with and always open to discussion and reviewing of different options and perspectives. We have always felt like together we achieved the best creative solutions for each project. Working within budgets and meeting deadlines has never been a concern. Whether architecture or interior design, Ramsay Gourd has demonstrated amazing artistic talent. **★★★★★ — skwichert, March 2015** > Ramsay Gourd designed our home in Manchester Vermont from conception to completion. We subsequently had Ramsay return and design a significant addition. > Total project(s) cost: +$1mm, 2001 > > We moved to Burlington Vermont and purchased a 50 year-old home and asked Ramsay to bring it up-to-date. > Project cost: +$400k, 2008 > > We recently purchased a 50 year-old camp in Grand Isle and hired Ramsay to draw plans for a complete renovation, from foundation to standing seam roof and everything in-between. > Project cost: +300k, 2013 > > Obviously, we are very happy working with Ramsay Gourd. We have found him to be accurate in figuring out our wants and needs and precise and creative in fulfilling them. He is an absolute delight to work with; humorous, engaging, imaginative, knowlegable of what's current in the industry, respectful of budgets and facile at interacting with the contractors doing the work, with whom he visited on a regular and frequent basis. **★★★★★ — ljbryan, March 2015** > While I can't speak to Ramsay's obvious qualities as an architect, I can speak to his creative abilities more generally. We are a family of dog lovers and, when we remodeled a cottage on Martha's Vineyard, used his "Labrador" wallpaper in a newly created powder room. It makes a great statement in a small space and has been the source of many gracious compliments. Thanks Ramsay! **★★★★★ — Bob, March 2015** > Ramsay was excellent in all respects. Very thoughtful about design, especially period design, and very fast with the execution of plans and excellent follow through. Ramsay is a delight to work with. ## Selected projects - [The Lake House Country Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-lake-house-country-farmhouse-pj-vj~1255881) - Location: Londonderry, VT - Photos: 15 - Description: Featured on the cover of September 2016 House Beautiful as well as the 120 year Anniversary issue, this home is a study in color, texture and layers. Taking cues from the owners' passions and lifestyle, we designed a country house that is uniquely theirs, right down to the custom designed fabric and wallcoverings in the library! - [Main Street Village Victorian](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/main-street-village-victorian-pj-vj~467909) - Location: Manchester, VT - Photos: 22 - Description: This historic restoration and renovation was the cover story for the September / October 2015 issue of Design New England. Working with skilled craftsmen, we salvaged a derelict house and brought it into the 21st century. We were fortunate to design all aspects of the home, from architecture to interiors to the landscape plan! - [Bay Side Lake House Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bay-side-lake-house-addition-pj-vj~1682782) - Location: Shelburne, VT - Photos: 7 - Description: Charged with the challenge to create and addition to the family's lakefront home, we integrated local materials and finishes in a composition that creates a sense of place and a natural extension to the home. The incredible craftsmen at Redhouse Builders did a remarkable job of bringing our vision to life! - [Pointside Lake House Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pointside-lake-house-renovation-pj-vj~460441) - Location: Shelburne, VT - Photos: 7 - Description: This major remodel on Lake Champlain involved removing the roof a simple cape and adding another story, creating a substantial home. The corner turret anchors the building and provides great space for a breakfast room, home office and and artist's studio! - [Marcia Lane Elegant Country Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marcia-lane-elegant-country-home-pj-vj~460463) - Location: Dorset, VT - Photos: 8 - Description: This wonderful home was designed to accommodate three generations for family gatherings, as well as provide a beautiful backdrop for entertaining. Featured on the cover of Better Homes and Gardens' Beautiful Homes Magazine in 2006, the design showcases the craftsmanship of remarkable area builders! - [Church Hill Farm Renovation and Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/church-hill-farm-renovation-and-interiors-pj-vj~2145028) - Location: Woodstock, VT - Photos: 4 - Description: By bringing in layers of color and pattern, and placing period antiques in an addition to this sweet Vermont farmhouse, we were able to make a seamless transition from the historic home to the new kitchen and living spaces. (We even had an opportunity to design a custom fabric for the owner, reflecting her love for the area's flora and fauna!) - [Sugar Lane Horse Barn Guest Suite](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sugar-lane-horse-barn-guest-suite-pj-vj~460456) - Location: Pawlet, VT - Photos: 7 - Description: The conversion of a hay loft to a comfortable guest suite was a fun creative challenge. Salvaged barn wood from a family farm in the Midwest is highlighted against a foil of clean modern surfaces. - [Turkey Hollow Swimming Pool and Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/turkey-hollow-swimming-pool-and-pool-house-pj-vj~460433) - Location: Dorset, VT - Photos: 6 - Description: This is just one portion of an ongoing project for some wonderful clients. In all, we did four major projects for them. But this is my favorite! - [Taylor Hill Contemporary Ski House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/taylor-hill-contemporary-ski-house-pj-vj~460418) - Location: Winhall, VT - Photos: 6 - Description: Inspired by the stone cottages of the nearby Haunts of authors and lifestyle pioneers Helen and Scott Nearing (Living the Good Life), this modern ski house puts a whole new spin on what it is to live the good life! Stone, steel and combine to form a home that both provides a sense of shelter and a connection with the outdoors. - [Ramsay Gourd Architects Featured Articles / Covers](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ramsay-gourd-architects-featured-articles-covers-pj-vj~1330776) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - [Tuttle Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tuttle-avenue-pj-vj~2843855) - Location: Spring Lake, NJ - Photos: 12 - Description: Substantial renovations to a seaside home on the Jersey Shore - [Spring Lake](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spring-lake-pj-vj~2843841) - Location: Spring Lake, NJ - Photos: 2 - [Spring Hill Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spring-hill-cottage-pj-vj~2843815) - Location: Dorset, VT - Photos: 4 - [House at Lilly Pond](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-at-lilly-pond-pj-vj~2843779) - Location: Dorset, VT - Photos: 7 - [West Road Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-road-cottage-pj-vj~2638100) - Location: Manchester, VT - Photos: 12 - [The Bunk House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-bunk-house-pj-vj~2638061) - Location: Londonderry, VT - Photos: 7 [See all 16 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ramsay-gourd-architects-pfvwus-pf~1954615965) ## Ideabooks - [Vanities](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/152889297/list/vanities) — 1 idea - [Daniels Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/53408212/list/daniels-lighting) — 3 ideas - [Daniels Bath](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/53405954/list/daniels-bath) — 13 ideas - [Daniels Mud Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/53406000/list/daniels-mud-room) — 2 ideas - [Daniels Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/53407631/list/daniels-kitchen) — 1 idea - [Daniels Laundry Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/53406551/list/daniels-laundry-room) — 2 ideas - [kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/39666043/list/kitchen) — 2 ideas - [Dining Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34405526/list/dining-room) — 7 ideas - [West Wing](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34372509/list/west-wing) — 2 ideas - [Painted Floor](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34360816/list/painted-floor) — 5 ideas - [Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34206498/list/bathroom) — 4 ideas - [kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/33924035/list/kitchens) — 7 ideas - [Bedroom Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/955904/list/bedroom-ideas) — 5 ideas [See all 13 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/ramsaygourd) ## Community Q&A **Q: Red Fabric** *(in Photo Questions)* Who is the designer of this fabric? A: Hi Edward. Thank you for your inquiry. I designed the red fabric, as well as the lattice paper on the ceiling. It is available through my collection. Here is the link, where you can some other fabrics and papers as well as some of my furniture:http://www.ramsaygourd.com/ Please let me know if there is anything I can help you with! **Q: coffee table** *(in Photo Questions)* I like the round coffee table. Can you tell me where it is from? Thank you. A: Hi, and thank you for your inquiry! I purchased the table from an antique shop that has since closed. It is not old, but made of reclaimed wood. I believe that it was made in PA. I have a call in to the owner of the shop to see if I can get that info, and will pass along if I do. **Q: Help me dress up my foyer please!** *(in Design Dilemma)* Hello guys, im not good at this so im here looking for you guys suggestion on what to add to my foyer, im finishing the clear coat on my stairs right now so it looks messy but please help so i can finish at least this part of the house! Thanks in advance. A: This is always a challenge. Without actually knowing who you are, and understanding your personality, I would be hesitant to make any recommendations. Consider bringing in some texture and layers to your scheme. Most of the materials shown are polished, reflective and hard. These can generally be off-putting. Your space is beautiful, and I can understand how you might hate to cover any of that marble, but well-selected rugs would go a long way to make the space more inviting. **Q: Lovely home!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Thank you! I'm sorry I didn't get back to you earlier. This room was just re-published in the 120 Year Anniversary issue of House Beautiful. I am humbled by the response. I just love making highly personal environments! **Q: Is it possible to find out the paint colors on this exterior?** *(in Photo Questions)* I have a similar stonework around my home and want to draw out the warmer tones. I like this color combo! A: It was a custom color match to the Marvin clad window color "Coconut Cream". I hope that helps! **Q: Love the fireplace!** *(in Photo Questions)* I saw this spread in House Beautiful. Could you tell me more about the fireplace construction/ design? The brick used? Thanks! A: It is based on a traditional Rumford style fireplace with a granite lintel and throat. We used old brick that has a salmon color to it. The simple mantle design is very traditional for this period and style of house. The wall is finished with hand-scraped tongue and groove boards with a simple bead detail at the joint. Rather than the bake-oven that might have been built in this arrangement, we opted for a wood storage bin. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-17.*