--- title: "Bob Chatham Custom Home Design — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bob-chatham-custom-home-design-pfvwus-pf~755712445 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~755712445.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Bob Chatham Custom Home Design" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/69439164027ab947_9426-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "78 S, Section Street, Fairhope, Alabama 36532, United States" latitude: 30.5012 longitude: -87.8835 phone: "(251) 451-7077" website: https://bobchatham.com rating: 5 review_count: 16 years_in_business: 30 best_of_houzz_awards: 7 followers: 466 last_updated: 2026-08-21 --- # Bob Chatham Custom Home Design > Designer of Finely Crafted Custom Homes - Best of Houzz Winner! Original Houzz profile: [Bob Chatham Custom Home Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bob-chatham-custom-home-design-pfvwus-pf~755712445) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Fairhope, AL - **Serves:** Mobile, Daphne, Fairhope, Spanish Fort, Loxley, Point Clear, Magnolia Springs, Silverhill, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montrose, South Carolina - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (16 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2015–2022), for Service, Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Industry Research - Barometer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 50,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Family owned - 30 years in business - Verified Hires - Responds Quickly ### Business highlights - 30 years in business - Best of Houzz winner - Family owned - 2 Verified Hires - Responds Quickly Specializing in waterfront, historical and southern cottage style homes, Bob Chatham is a second generation residential designer that has been designing custom homes for over 35 years. He has been a professional member of the American Institute of Building Design for over 30 years and is a member of the National Association of Home Builders. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - Green Building - Space Planning - Universal Design - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Architecture Plans - Construction Drawings - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Mobile - Daphne - Fairhope - Spanish Fort - Loxley - Point Clear - Magnolia Springs - Silverhill - Florida - Louisiana - Mississippi - Montrose - South Carolina ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Bob Chatham Custom Home Design | | Address | 78 S, Section Street, Fairhope, Alabama 36532, United States | | Phone | (251) 451-7077 | | Website | https://bobchatham.com | | Years in business | 30 | | Followers on Houzz | 466 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chatham-Design-Group/188118747887969?ref=hl - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-chatham-1994b57 - Blog — https://bobchatham.com - Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/bobchathamcustomhomes/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Bob Chatham Custom Home Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bob-chatham-custom-home-design-pfvwus-pf~755712445) - **Website:** https://bobchatham.com - **Phone:** (251) 451-7077 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - National Association of Home Builders, Alabama Home Builders Association and Baldwin County Home Builders Association. 2022 AIBD Award Winner. 2021 AIBD Award Winner- ARDA Grand Winner. National Association of Home Builders 2018 Gold Award for Best Architectural Design. - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2015–2022), for Service, Design. **Affiliations** - [AIBD - American Institute of Building Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aibd-american-institute-of-building-design-pfvwus-pf~1544540709) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 16 reviews** ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Angie Janes, June 2016** > It was an absolute pleasure working with Bob on our project. Designing a new home is never easy - so many things to think about, try to include, etc. Bob had it covered. Not only did he listen to our ideas, he actually incorporated most everything on our wish list into our home design. From initial consultation all the way through the finished plan, Bob kept us included. His attention to detail was certainly impressive. His suggestions for small changes here and there really improved the interior flow as well as the exterior design. Construction will be finished soon. Thank you, Bob, for making it the special place we will be proud to call home! ### All 16 reviews **★★★★★ — lcottrell9, March 2021** > Bob and Kathy were wonderful to work with. They paid attention to every detail on my endless wish list and were able to design a gorgeous home for us. They were both very patient with changes, easy to communicate with and got back to us quickly with changes. We highly recommend them! **★★★★★ — Kevin Bryars, March 2020** > Bob and his team were great listeners and did a great job of putting down on paper what we wanted for our dream river home. They were professional and on time with all of their deliverables. We love our final plans and are starting on the build now. We would definitely recommend them. **★★★★★ — Vernon Colbert, Feb. 2020** > We found Chatham Custom Home Design to be very professional and knowledgable, and Bob is one of the most reputable architects in our area. Bob and his staff worked with us in every step of the process to develop a plan that worked for us. We would use them again and highly recommend. **★★★★★ — Robyn Choiniere, Feb. 2020** > Bob and Juliette worked closely with us to create our design and designed us a beautiful home in Ono Island. We highly recommend using them for any architectural needs. **★★★★★ — Greg Crews, Feb. 2020** > Bob and his entire staff were wonderful to work with! From the initial design phase to the finished product, everything was seamless and they were on top of everything as well as very professional and open to all ideas. Cannot wait to get the next project started with them, they are a joy to work with. **★★★★★ — Lauren Cortelyou Cowart, Feb. 2020** > I was referred to Bob Chatham Custom Home Design by a close friend. From the beginning and throughout the design process, I was most impressed with Bob's professionalism as well as his team including Kathy Heard and Maureen Petrucelli. As I described to Bob what I wanted to build, a Dutch Colonial home reflective of my ancestry, he actively sketched in front of me what became my present build. **★★★★★ — M Peterson, Feb. 2020** > Bob Chatham and his team listen so well and then draw the idea on paper that is more functional and more beautiful than you originally were thinking. There is nothing cookie cutter about Chatham Custom Home Designs. Bob Chatham is truly creative. Combined with years of experience and valuable guidance on items that ensure a successful outcome, I consider the choice to work with Bob Chatham the best decision I made. I merely described the look I wanted for the exterior of our home. In front of our eyes, Bob sketched the most beautiful version of our house. The house doesn't have to be big to be beautiful. Bob's attention to detail, proportions and architectural styles are unmatched. I highly recommend working with Bob Chatham and Chatham Custom Home Design for your home. **★★★★★ — CRAIG HOMES, INC., Nov. 2018** > I've been in the home building business for over 20 years and have been fortunate enough to work with many outstanding architects and designers. Bob is definitely one of the best. He is a pleasure to work with and very responsive to any questions that may come up during the construction process. **★★★★★ — Rich Sharff, June 2017** > We were very pleased with the work Bob and his team did for us on our new bay house. He made sure he understood what we were looking for and then guided us through the process efficiently and effectively. My wife and I had no experience building a house, live hundreds of miles away from Fairhope, and did not have a lot of time to spend dealing with such a project, and Bob was great about boiling things down for us to the key decision points. Most importantly, thanks to Bob’s design and knowledge of the local vendors for us to consider using as an engineer and contractor, we ended up with a home we love. **★★★★★ — James Harrell, Dec. 2016** > Bob and his team provided the ultimate professionalism on our project! From the day we walked in to his office and gave him our ideas, views, and desires in a home, he immediately went to work, and designed the perfect home for us. Bob has insight to things you would never even think about when designing a home. He was always available to us and our contractor throughout the entire building process. We would highly recommend Bob Chatham Home Design to anyone seeking a qualified, professional home designer. **★★★★★ — dan\_and\_robin, March 2015** > My wife and I met Bob after viewing a home he designed in Fairhope, Alabama. We were moving to Fairhope and trying to decide whether to buy an existing home or build a new home. We liked the home Bob Chatham had designed and decided to meet with Bob about building a home to meet our needs. From that first meeting, through the entire home building process, Bob and his team provided superior design, advice and service. Bob designed our ICF home and garage using a collaborative approach that brought our home from concept to reality and we couldn’t be happier. We highly recommend Bob Chatham and his team for your residential home design needs! **★★★★★ — scottnormanllc, Feb. 2015** > Great experience in designing house! Very helpful throughout construction project. Bob has excellent taste and can take a client from conceptual phase to a completed plan in a fun and creative manner. **★★★★★ — glenevans, Jan. 2015** > Working with Bob was a genuine pleasure. While he is very talented and has excellent conceptual ability he allows the client to have input into the design of the house. I highly recommend Bob Chatham if you are looking for a pre-planned home or want help designing yours from scratch. > Glen Evans **★★★★★ — susanoc1855, Dec. 2014** > We went to Bob to design 2 residences in our new PUD. His design turned out beautiful with a great use of limited space. We will break ground for construction soon but the drawings promise visually stunning buildings. Bob is easy to work with and has great ideas for architecture. Highly recommend. **★★★★★ — vanuden, Nov. 2014** > The company did a beautiful job. Mr. Chatham is an incredibly talented and courteous individual. He is truly a winner! ## Selected projects - [Old Oak Cay](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/old-oak-cay-pj-vj~6745604) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 77 - Description: This impressive Fairhope estate is located on a double lot on a quiet court. It has a luxurious outdoor living area complete with a pool. The porte cochere provides convenient access to the home and sheltered parking in addition to the detached garage. The interior of the home is stunning with details including Cypress beams and exposed brick. The kitchen is fit for a chef with Wolf appliances, large counter top space, a separate service kitchen and large pantry. Designed by Bob Chatham Custom H… - [Bayside Luxury Villa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bayside-luxury-villa-pj-vj~6424206) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 46 - Description: This beautiful modern Mediterranean style home has the influence of classic Spanish and Italian style with a modern twist. The light exterior color with wood and metal accents are common in this style architecture. The tile roof, decorative roof brackets, open rafter tails, and many windows add to the coastal feel. The indoor and outdoor spaces blend together in this style home provide the perfect setting to enjoy the Florida lifestyle. Built by Phillip Vlahos of VDT Construction and designed by… - [Island Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/island-retreat-pj-vj~6269978) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 71 - Description: This charming modern coastal design sits on a private island on the Gulf Coast of Alabama. The exterior has a beautiful blend of rustic and modern appeal. Stained decorative roof brackets and shake siding contrast the light board and batten exterior. The operable shutters have a coastal vibe and coordinates nicely with the metal roof and stained exposed rafter tails. Arched doors at the entry and painted brick complete the look. Designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design and built by VDT Constru… - [Wildflower Lane Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wildflower-lane-cottage-pj-vj~6692954) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 55 - Description: This distinctive design has the characteristics of a French Country cottage with a modern twist. The steep, curved roofline, brick exterior, and arched entryway nod to its historical roots, while the dark windows, painted brick, and copper roof accents show its contemporary edge. The main house has a charming addition of a garage with a guest suite on top, connected by a breezeway. This Fairhope cottage is a 2021 AIBD Residential Design Grand Award Winner. Built by Jeff Frostholm of Frostholm Co… - [Bay Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bay-living-pj-vj~6944288) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 78 - Description: This Modern French Country style home is marked by its combination of classic architectural design features combined with a contemporary floor plan layout. The modern elements include its open floor plan and two-story living space. This spacious design leads out into the extensive outdoor living area. This space includes a tv & lounge area and outdoor kitchen and dining. The primary suite overlooks the pool and water beyond. Among this waterfront home’s historical features are its curved rooflin… - [Sunset Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sunset-cottage-pj-vj~7084770) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 51 - [Hatteras Cove](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hatteras-cove-pj-vj~6985006) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 101 - Description: Situated on Bayou Saint John, this massive waterfront home boasts 7 bedrooms, 5 ½ baths, and deep-water access. Some of its most impressive features include the two-story indoor and outdoor living spaces, ideal views from the two en- suite primaries, and the grandeur created by its dynamic architectural features. This expansive design offers endless space and possibility for your coastal lifestyle dream. Photography by Derek Keller Photography. - [Bob Chatham Custom Home Design Office](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bob-chatham-custom-home-design-office-pj-vj~6158369) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 95 - Description: Construction is complete on our new office building and residence above located at 78 S Section Street. We are located at the corner of Section Street and Minnich Court in downtown Fairhope, AL. Designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design Built by Rick Twilley Rendering by Redfish Design ICF Construction by Force 5 walls Structural Engineering by Martin Pitts Financing by Century Bank Collaborating Architect Mike LeBatard of LeBatard Architecture - [Taylor Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/taylor-lane-pj-vj~1289553) - Location: Fairhope, AL - Photos: 76 - Description: The Taylor Lane home is a shining example of beautifully crafted architecture combined with elegant design. This custom home displays sharp, clean, proportionate lines on the front exterior, with white pre-cast concrete stairs leading up to the stained oak French doors. The back of the home features vaulted ceilings with pine wood tongue & groove that are lit with a dewy glow from the chandelier inside the expansive screened in porch. Large, regal posts support the decorative truss, giving this… - [Copper Creek Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/copper-creek-cottage-pj-vj~6522865) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 57 - Description: This charming Fairhope cottage has beautiful copper lanterns and rain gutters. A light brick exterior and dark framed windows with exposed beams compliment the rustic yet elegant exterior. Built by Jeff Frostholm Construction and designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design. Photos by Bailey Chastang Photography. - [Simple Elegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/simple-elegance-pj-vj~6956345) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 66 - Description: This elegant, Modern Tudor style design is marked by its attention to detail on both the exterior and interior. The double entryways on the front façade allow for privacy, convenience, and versatility. The back of the home features a screened in outdoor living space with a cathedral ceiling and fireplace. The arched mahogany doors, curved roofline, decorative room openings, and pine accents all come together to give the house its charming character. These accents created a symphony of style that… - [2017 Showcase Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/2017-showcase-home-pj-vj~2710116) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 27 - Description: This classic southern cottage with historical features is a collaboration between Home Builder Jeff Frostholm and Custom Home Designer Bob Chatham. The tall windows with transoms and high ceilings create a feeling of stepping back in time. Designed specifically to be built in Pointe Place, a residential community in Fairhope, Alabama with strict architectural guidelines for creating cottages with a southern vernacular style. The exterior look is tied together with operable shutters, open rafter… - [Under the Moss](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/under-the-moss-pj-vj~1218343) - Location: Mobile, AL - Photos: 51 - Description: Rick Twilley of Twilley Builders built his personal home to be a shining example of "Home, Sweet Home." Looking over Dog River in Mobile, AL, this beautiful 4,000 square foot cottage sits under a canopy of ancient oaks and Spanish moss, luring you in with the inviting walk and warm porch lights. Rick's attention to detail is noticeable in every aspect of the home - from the beautiful trim and moulding to the elegant columns and woodwork. Designed by Bob Chatham, this home takes advantage of the… - [Chocolate Box](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chocolate-box-pj-vj~7223372) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 83 - Description: “The Chocolate Box”—Our clients shared that this is what they call their home. It’s a phrase originating from the late Victorian era. Chocolate boxes were intricately designed and beautifully crafted, and now, this expression is used to describe something that’s “pretty in a conventional or idealized way.” “It captures our vision of an idyllic setting…inside and out. It’s the quintessential ‘Chocolate Box’. A cocktail by the pool, on the back porch or anywhere in the house screams… BE THANKFUL B… - [East Coast Inspired](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/east-coast-inspired-pj-vj~5853469) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 68 - Description: \*2021 AIBD Residential Design Grand Award Winner. This charming East Coast inspired home was designed for the bluff overlooking the bay in Montrose, Alabama. It’s beautiful sweeping rooflines and Cedar shake siding are highlighted by the bright white trim and ornate windows. Details such as decorative roof brackets and open rafter tails add to the allure of this classic Cape Cod style exterior designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design. Photography by Derek Keller Photography. - [2018 Showcase Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/2018-showcase-home-pj-vj~5320427) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 33 - Description: This luxurious cottage was built by Reehlco Custom Homes, Decorated by DUH Home Furnishings and Interior Design, and designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design. Photography by Bailey Chastang Photography. - [Maple Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/maple-lane-pj-vj~7202966) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 47 - [Southern Pointe](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/southern-pointe-pj-vj~4157510) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 30 - Description: A southern cottage with a french country appeal built by Chris Achee of Achee Builders and designed by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design. - [Eleanor Beach](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/eleanor-beach-pj-vj~5769654) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 114 - Description: Eleanor Beach, an upscale beachfront development located in Perdido Key, Florida. Your own private custom designed residence within a new waterfront luxury development. Designs by Bob Chatham Custom Home Design. Builder: Green Leaf Construction, L.L.C. Photography by DK Photography Renderings by Redfish Renderings LLC. - [Solitude](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/solitude-pj-vj~7170480) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 51 [See all 215 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bob-chatham-custom-home-design-pfvwus-pf~755712445) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840764632.m3u8?s=d05e58e9e35c62b61fc3b00334e604c3584d32de&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?** Yes, we have a clear understanding of wetland areas, flood zones, easements, and related lot constraints. Our team handles architectural design and construction drawings, which inherently involves navigating permitting and zoning to ensure your custom home plan meets all regulatory approvals. **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** We specialize in designing custom homes, particularly waterfront, historical, and southern cottage styles. Our services also include home additions, extensions, and comprehensive remodeling projects to transform existing spaces into your dream home. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** We provide comprehensive architectural design services, including detailed construction drawings, to guide your project from concept to completion. While we focus on the design phase, we ensure our plans are thorough for your builder. Please contact us to discuss specific construction-phase involvement. **Do you design fully custom homes?** Absolutely! We specialize in designing fully custom homes. With over 35 years of experience, our team creates unique home plans tailored to your vision, ensuring your new residence is truly one-of-a-kind and an investment in your future. **Do you specialize in specific architectural styles?** Yes, we have distinct specializations! We excel in designing waterfront, historical, and southern cottage style homes. Bob Chatham is also known for his classic low country designs, featuring large porches and breezy balconies, especially popular in coastal communities. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Pic of The Day](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/79212482/list/pic-of-the-day) — 29 ideas [See all 1 ideabook](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/bobchatham) ## Community Q&A **Q: can you share the paint color?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you share this fabulous paint color? Thx A: Hello Lauren, thank you for your question! We think this color is fabulous as well! Unfortunately, once we have completed the home design, the home owner and/or Interior Designer selects the finishes while building the home. If we can find out the paint color for you we are happy to share! 💛 **Q: what kind of wood is ceiling** *(in Photo Questions)* What kind if wood is ceiling made of and what stain or paint A: Hello, this ceiling is white washed pecky cypress. **Q: what is ceiling made of?** *(in Photo Questions)* Is ceiling stained or white washed? A: Hello, this ceiling is white washed pecky cypress. **Q: can you please provide info about brick?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you please provide info about brick? A: This brick is called Old Chicago. **Q: Paint colors?** *(in Photo Questions)* Thank you A: The exterior paint color is by Benjamin Moore, called Plaster of Paris. **Q: Beautiful exterior color, what is it?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Erin, Thank you. The siding is Gray Matters with Alabaster trim. The shutters are in Black Bean. All are from Sherwin Williams paint color selection. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-21.*