--- title: "Michael Ross Kersting Architecture, P.A. — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-ross-kersting-architecture-p-a-pfvwus-pf~2080523481 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~2080523481.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Michael Ross Kersting Architecture, P.A." category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/87230cfe006596cf_2752-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg address: "4022 Market Street, Suite 201, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403, United States" latitude: 34.2237 longitude: -77.8862 phone: "(910) 763-1348" website: http://www.kerstingarchitecture.com rating: 5 review_count: 17 best_of_houzz_awards: 13 followers: 235 last_updated: 2026-11-05 --- # Michael Ross Kersting Architecture, P.A. Original Houzz profile: [Michael Ross Kersting Architecture, P.A.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-ross-kersting-architecture-p-a-pfvwus-pf~2080523481) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Wilmington, NC - **Serves:** Charlotte, Raleigh, Wilmington, Leland, Murraysville, Masonboro, Myrtle Grove, Ogden, Silver Lake, Wrightsboro, Seagate, Skippers Corner, Bayshore, Belville, Wrightsville Beach, Castle Hayne, Hightsville, Kirkland, Virginia, Winnabow - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (17 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2013–2025), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves Through the practice of architecture, MRKA seeks to enhance the lives of our clients and our community by offering thoughtful and progressive design solutions. We take care to understand the specific needs and desires of our clients as well as the physical and cultural characteristics particular to each project. By pursuing ideas that arise from these unique conditions, we strive to create places that are authentic, provocative, meaningful, and responsive. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Floor Plans - Energy-Efficient Homes - 3D Rendering - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Space Planning - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Basement Remodeling - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Design - Attic Conversion - Mudroom Design - Garage Design - Deck Design - Staircase Design - Landscape Plans - Laundry Room Design - Home Gym Design & Construction - Prefab Houses - Rooftop Deck Installation - 3D Home Design - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Charlotte - Raleigh - Wilmington - Leland - Murraysville - Masonboro - Myrtle Grove - Ogden - Silver Lake - Wrightsboro - Seagate - Skippers Corner - Bayshore - Belville - Wrightsville Beach - Castle Hayne - Hightsville - Kirkland - Virginia - Winnabow ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 25 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Michael Ross Kersting Architecture, P.A. | | Address | 4022 Market Street, Suite 201, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403, United States | | Phone | (910) 763-1348 | | Website | http://www.kerstingarchitecture.com | | License Number | North Carolina: 7103 | | Followers on Houzz | 235 | **Social profiles:** - LinkedIn — @kerstingarch - Blog — www.kerstingarchitecture.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Michael Ross Kersting Architecture, P.A.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-ross-kersting-architecture-p-a-pfvwus-pf~2080523481) - **Website:** http://www.kerstingarchitecture.com - **Phone:** (910) 763-1348 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Multiple AIA Design Awards - Multiple Matsumoto Prize - Multiple Publications - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2013–2025), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315) - [American Institute of Architects, Wilmington](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-institute-of-architects-wilmington-pfvwus-pf~404166471) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 17 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 5.0 - Communication: 5.0 - Value: 5.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Brent Smith, Jan. 2022** > I was looking for a waterfront lot to build a contemporary home on. After finding a suitable property which was barely within the budget reach, I discovered that it was significantly impacted by a wetland (aka- a swamp), which wasn’t properly disclosed in the marketing documents. Following weeks of mitigation research and frustration, I was about to forgo making an offer on the property. Days later, (with a small plat, some yellow onion skin and a red pencil), Michael convinced me that we could design and build a home around the wetland, which would also provide a privacy buffer. It was a great idea. Once we headed down this path, (and selected our builder-- Eric Davis/Bauen Group), it was further apparent that we had turned what appeared to be an impediment into an opportunity. In spite of this major land restriction, Michael and his team did a fantastic job designing and building a beautiful, unique home, which adapts perfectly within the site, while the wetland (and future bog garden) adds another dynamic water feature, and even more value. We love our new home! **★★★★★ — markcapone64@gmail.com, Jan. 2022** > We worked with Kersting Architecture and Kersting Peridot for our recently completed beachfront home. The entire process was fantastic from the moment we started the floor plan sketches until we walked into our beautifully decorated home. The team was collaborative, fun, talented, and thorough. Building a home from 2,500 miles away can be intimidating, but this team made it easy. I would highly recommend using Kersting for your project! **★★★★★ — jennstowe19, Feb. 2021** > Kersting Architecture transformed our home into everything we envisioned and more. Our project was an extensive home remodel; adding a new kitchen and living room, adding more windows for lighting, a music room and new screened in porch. We were blown away by their work and professionalism. I know our home would not look as amazing as it does without their design and help throughout the process. We highly recommend them! **★★★★★ — Robin Kranich, Aug. 2019** > I spent my life dreaming about a sanctuary space ocean front. A place to settle my soul and quiet my mind. I bought a piece of land and shopped for a local architect who could tease my vision out of me, inspire my thinking, solve problems and execute swiftly. I cannot more emphatically recommend the entire team at Kersting Architecture and Kersting Peridot Design. A passion for learning, taking on hard challenges, providing expert insight and meticulous management of the project. You will be sad when the project ends! **★★★★★ — Lisa Beller, May 2018** > We recently moved into our new home that was designed by Michael Kersting and his team. We could not be more pleased. The house has several unique design features that we have never seen in any other home and that make our house one of a kind. We completely changed styles to a "cozy" contemporary home. Not only is the house gorgeous, but Michael was easy to work with and not only listened to what we wanted but saw the potential with our current situation and exploited it to fully appreciate our views and living style. **★★★★★ — HU-682780, May 2018** > Thoughtful, innovative and very professional are the words that come to mind when describing Michael and his team. They listened carefully to our needs and were able to turn our wishes into reality. We are delighted with the end product. They were hands on from start to finish and we were impressed with the quality service we received throughout the project. Managing the builders to stay on budget and time was always addressed and we received regular updates on progress and all issues needing to be addressed. This was a technically challenging house but every aspect was well considered and has added to our experience and sense of pleasure in our new home. **★★★★★ — Nancy Grier, April 2017** > We have used Kersting Architects for 2 major renovation projects. One thing is for sure: we wouldn't have the final products we ended up wirh, had we not used their services!! > > The designs are fresh, innovative, personal to > our lifestyle and seamless. New space flows well > with the existing structure so it does not look > like an "add on" or "afterthought"!! > > We will ALWAYS use an Architect prior to tackling > any type of renovation from here on in. They are > so worth the fee when you end up with such a > great end product! **★★★★★ — cbensoniii, April 2017** > We worked with Kersting architecture during 2015-2016, and it was an extremely good process. They were very thorough and timely, and the end product was exactly what we were looking for. They had great insight and ideas and our plans were delivered on time and on budget. **★★★★★ — Christy Spencer, March 2017** > Michael Ross Kersting and his associates have the unique ability to truly listen to your ideas, concepts and then turn them into reality. Designing and building a home is a challenge and an undertaking within itself. But when you are working with consummate professionals who are passionate about their work you know the end result is going to be spectacular. **★★★★★ — arlzee, Aug. 2015** > Michael and his staff have been true professionals in every aspect of building a custom home. Their combined design knowledge, experience, excellent listening skills and great attitude have made the entire process a positive team effort for all involved.. Great thought and consideration has been put into every detail of the design, construction and budget. It has all added up to making the project flow smoothly in spite of the lay of the land. **★★★★★ — J-O-A-T, Sept. 2014** > Kersting Architecture, is a positively wonderful company to work with. I never have to worry that the creative energy will be there, when sending my clients. Their eco friendly and one of a kind designs are a joy to see! **★★★★★ — aliceraycathrall, Sept. 2013** > Michael Ross Kersting Architecture,P.A. designed my home in North Carolina. > The result exceeded expectations. > The project was challenging,complicated by a long distance,Wilmington to Philadelphia,and a dramatically sloped marsh,creek lot. > The project had a few broad requirements such as capturing the light and beauty of the place using a modern aesthetic combined with traditional regional materials.With a nod to Le Corbusier's Notre dame du Haut,windows were designed to do just that.Light and the outdoors flow through the space as a result. > The working process was efficient,effective,collaborative > and timely, ## Selected projects - [Run Ashore](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/run-ashore-pj-vj~2557198) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - [Surf Gallery](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/surf-gallery-pj-vj~1994310) - Location: Wrightsville Beach, NC - Photos: 36 - [On Water (Guest House)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/on-water-guest-house-pj-vj~389292) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 14 - Description: This vacation guest house sits on a 3.61 acre peninsula reaching into Futch Creek. Spectacular views offer western sunsets across the creek, sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean and a swimming pool just steps outside to the north. Three bedroom suites, a kitchen and a living area provide comfort for guests, with each room granted a water view. Column less porches formed by cantilevered bedrooms offer cool shaded areas and a rooftop terrace is perfect for sun worshipers. The material palette of painte… - [Upcycle Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/upcycle-ranch-pj-vj~6527933) - Location: Wilmington, NC - Photos: 30 - Description: This project is located in a neighborhood of basic 1970’s era ranch-style homes. The Owner’s objective was to transform the tired old home to their forever home. The results expanded the living and outdoor spaces with effortless flow and infused the style of the home with a modern feel which pays homage to its original era. The core of the linear home was dismantled and vaulted space built across the grain of the old home weaves in a new volume adding outdoor space at each end. Matching beam and… - [Waterline](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waterline-pj-vj~1218029) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 34 - [Skyeblu](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/skyeblu-pj-vj~6007915) - Location: Wrightsville Beach, NC - Photos: 42 - [Dragonfly](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dragonfly-pj-vj~94156) - Location: Wilmington, NC - Photos: 5 - Description: On a small lake in a Wilmington neighborhood rests a villa called Dragonfly. Two parallel wings defined by thick mahogany walls, contain sleeping, cooking, eating, and bathing areas. Within the mahogany walls, structure & equipment is concealed, and openings are made revealing sparkling layers beneath. Interstitial space between the mahogany walls becomes a living room offering both panoramic lake vistas and intimate views to the private courtyard. By inverting the traditional home (bringing pri… - [MudHinge](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mudhinge-pj-vj~3125551) - Location: Wilmington, NC - Photos: 15 - Description: New casual family home on tidal creek in Wilmington, North Carolina. - [On Water (Main House)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/on-water-main-house-pj-vj~2003015) - Location: Wilmington, NC - Photos: 14 - [Point 3](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/point-3-pj-vj~94186) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - [Heron Watch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/heron-watch-pj-vj~6008141) - Location: Wrightsville Beach, NC - Photos: 86 - [Lumina View](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lumina-view-pj-vj~2252864) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 34 - [Alpine Mod](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alpine-mod-pj-vj~6788722) - Location: Linville, NC - Photos: 20 - [Sunrise](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sunrise-pj-vj~2001460) - Location: Wilmington, NC - Photos: 24 - [Equinox](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/equinox-pj-vj~836754) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 18 - [Transformer](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transformer-pj-vj~1143941) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 27 - [Iron & Wine](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/iron-and-wine-pj-vj~2579889) - Location: Wrightsville Beach, NC - Photos: 57 - [Sunnybranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sunnybranch-pj-vj~1279322) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 44 - [Lagoon View](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lagoon-view-pj-vj~2602675) - Location: Wilmington, NC - Photos: 10 - [Pause, Fast Forward, Rewind...](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pause-fast-forward-rewind-pj-vj~545245) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 45 - Description: Contemporary Beach House in North Carolina. Architect: Kersting Architecture Contractor: David Lennard Builders [See all 34 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-ross-kersting-architecture-p-a-pfvwus-pf~2080523481) ## Ideabooks - [Glover](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/143875787/list/glover) — 25 ideas - [Dunbar](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/82855599/list/dunbar) — 11 ideas - [Cathrall-Jakeway](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/73679687/list/cathrall-jakeway) — 19 ideas - [Winstanly](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/43789713/list/winstanly) — 1 idea - [Good Modern Houses](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/27279346/list/good-modern-houses) — 15 ideas - [schrager-york](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/25742282/list/schrager-york) — 1 idea - [Stevens Reno](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19373749/list/stevens-reno) — 9 ideas - [Zuger](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19130314/list/zuger) — 1 idea - [Randazzo Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/18307217/list/randazzo-residence) — 1 idea [See all 9 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/kersting-architecture) ## Community Q&A **Q: How did you achieve the look of the cedar shakes? Beautiful!** *(in Photo Questions)* Cedar shakes are gorgeous A: We use a Cabot's bleaching oil on the eastern white cedar shingles. Here is the specification: https://www.cabotstain.com/products/product/Bleaching-Oil.html **Q: What siding is used on the house?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: The base is Hardi-Panel with Fry-Reglet connections. The grey siding is Phillipine Mahogany in a channel rustic cut. Just to the left of the front door we use Artisan bevel cut siding. The decking is Ipe'. **Q: Fireplace is beautiful** *(in Photo Questions)* Hi- what is the fireplace surround made of? Thanks! A: The product is called Sintered Stone and comes from a company called Neolith. We used Textil White. Here is a link to the product: http://www.neolith.com/en/collections/modelo?modelo=35 . Our countertop supplier Bluewater Surfaces did the installation. http://www.houzz.com/pro/dustinbruadway/bluewater-surfaces **Q: Bathroom vanity drawers** *(in Photo Questions)* Could you tell me how the bathroom vanity drawers open? Is the drawer under the sink a special shape to accommodate the plumbing? A: That middle drawer is actually U-Shaped and formed around the lavatory bowl and p-trap. The drawer below it is a fully functioning standard drawer. The large drawers to the left and right have a smaller drawer within the large drawer. **Q: Wallpaper** *(in Photo Questions)* Would you be able to share the designer and style of that wallpaper?! It could be hand painted...but I think it's wallpaper. It is gorgeous! A: Yes, that is wallpaper. The interior designer Barrie Benson actually specified that finish. She should be able to help you with what that is exactly. Here is a link to her website: http://www.barriebenson.com/ **Q: hil, what is the cost of construction of this house? we would be build** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Bradley, we have a policy to not share specific project construction costs. I would be glad to discuss speculative construction cost with you by phone if you would like to call me. Thanks, Michael --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-05.*