CK Architects

I can not say enough good things about Russ. We built on a tight lot with some site complexity. He really listened to what my husband and I were looking for, and created for us something inclusive of the raw elements we brought him, but polished and developed in a way that we couldn't have arrived at ourselves. He maximized the feeling of openness by maintaining appropriate spaces where needed, and using our outdoor views to draw the eye out in the more modestly scaled rooms. He created good storage for us in sensible places too. When it was time for bidding, he had several vetted builders and also welcomed consideration of others - and helped evaluate their suitability for our complex project. During the construction phase, he was a font of knowledge and his expertise was invaluable in solving the myriad of small issues that arise during home construction. Throughout the process, we found Russ cared about the construction of our home almost as much as we did. He, MJ and their team are great people to work with. We are so lucky to have had the pleasure, and the academic benefit is clear in our awesome new home.

When we first started looking for an architect to make updates (including an additio)n to the house on the shore that we had recently purchased, a neighbor recommended Russ to us. We met with him and were very impressed with his immediate understanding of what we were trying to accomplish and his knowledge of shoreline rules and regulations. We were ready to move ahead with him immediately but Russ suggested that we interview other architects as well to get other ideas and to make sure that we were choosing the right person. We met with two other architects, both of whom we liked but we still came back to Russ. We never regretted this decision. As the scope of the project grew and the effects of Hurricane Sandy began to be reflected in the shoreline regulations, we were so thankful for his knowledge and creativity. He was also very accommodating to our schedule, meeting with us over the weekend to go over the plans. Once the plans were finalized, Russ guided us through the bidding process and the selection of Celebration Construction as our contractor. They also offered construction management services which we found very helpful. CK Architects was with us every step of the way through the construction process and the selection of what seemed a never ending list of appliances, lighting and other fixtures. They kept us on track and carefully monitored the contractor, meeting with them on a weekly basis. Since we could only come out on weekends to check on the project, their careful monitoring was very important to us. We love our “new” house and especially appreciate the energy efficiency items that were incorporated into the project (geothermal heating and cooling, ventilation system, on demand hot water, hurricane proof windows, etc.) Energy costs were 20% lower this winter than last winter even though the winter was much more severe. Also, thanks to the design, our FEMA insurance premiums are approximately the same as they were before Hurricane Sandy. If we had not made the changes Russ suggested, our premiums would have been at least $5000 higher per year (based on the post-Sandy quote before the changes were pointed out.) We would definitely recommend CK Architects for your next project.

If you are considering hiring Mary Jo and Russ, `do yourself a favor and do it now! Their professionalism and knowledge far exceed anyone that I have worked with before! In fact, they brought a completely different site orientation to the table that was never considered previously. It is simply amazing! I highly recommend them for any commercial or residential project that deserves attention to detail!

We worked with CK Architects on a full house remodeling project in 2013 and were very pleased with the process and result. CK Architects helped us with planning and bidding, and they also had some involvement overseeing construction. Their ideas were creative, beautiful and practical. It was a difficult project because of our very tight time frame for construction, and their excellent responsiveness and the level of detail they brought to planning helped to keep us on schedule and on budget.

We hired CK architects to design and build a new office for our company. The project was lengthy and required over two years of work. Russ & Mary-Jo listened to every word we said and executed the project perfectly. They understood our wants and needs, and balanced them with the desire to preserve a historic building in the process. The time and detail they put into every piece of their work is unmatched; they spent hours presenting to teams of individuals, and made sure no question went unanswered. We could not be happier with the result. And, we're looking forward to working with them again in 2014 on a renovation project.

After interviewing 6 architectural firms, we selected CK Architects to design and supervise the construction of our new, FEMA regulated, oceanfront home. The Firm kept us within our strict budget, while providing a perfect design. Our project was rife with challenges, from zoning, to new FEMA regulations, to sheer proximity to the water; and CK expertly rose above all, helped us select a great builder, and we couldn't be happier with the outcome.

Russ was a very thoughtful and responsive project manager. His designs were excellent and he was always mindful of including everyone's perspective in the design. This project had an aggressive timeline and we came in on time. I would re-hire him and I have already recommended him to several colleagues.

We hired CK architects to gut and renovate our kitchen. It entailed knocking down existing walls and putting up a new one on top of completely revamping all electrical circuits. We did not know what we could do with the space and CK architects developed 3 very original ideas of how to lay out the kitchen. We picked the one that fit our needs the best and went from there. They are extremely professional and timely in their work and have a great attention to detail. They ensured all apects of the design were accounted for and were very thoughtful about ergonomics and flow of the layout. We were extremely happy with the end results and could not imagine a better architect to work with.

My Wife and I endeavored to gut and rehab an 1850 Italianate home near a historic Town Green. CK Architects listened and transformed our verbal vision on to paper exactly which led the contractors to a tremendous result. They helped us along the way as we encountered unforeseen challenges and taught us how to oversee the project. They used their expertise to make our home highly energy efficient as well. Our home, even being circa 1850, consumes the least energy among our five previous homes. CK Architects (specifically Russ, MJ, Josh and Emily) earn our highest accolades and we are happy to speak with any of their potential clients as a reference. Photos of our project are on their website.

Hired CK Architects to completely redesign our house and make it energy efficient. We worked with them for almost two years. The entire process was a pleasure and they partnered us with a talented, friendly and reliable builder. This is a company that listens very carefully to their clients and is responsive to every detail and question. We felt fully involved at every stage of this large project and they were always very supportive and encouraging. They always clearly outlined every stage, from initial planning and drawings to finished design and they were always, always ready to assist with direction and advice. We had frequent meetings but we felt we could contact them any time we needed them. They also kept a very close eye on our budget, did not let us over extend our imaginations into fantasy. They had wonderful ideas for design and materials and met every deadline. The result is we have a beautiful energy efficient home that we love.

CK Architects provided plans and oversight for our complete renovation of a 1917 lake house seasonal cottage. They took the time and care to visit and discuss our memories of the house, the importance of various elements and our vision for the renovation. From there we worked closely to ensure a finished product that respected the history of the house and the lake front setting, while providing a comfortable and totally enjoyable year-round house. As might be expected with a house this old, surprises arose and each was dealt with professionally and cost-effectively. Family and visitors still marvel at how the character of the house was retained, while bringing it completely up to date.

Campaigne Kestner Architects are an outstanding team that deserve attention as an example of superb design and project management talent. Over and over again their creative insight, attention to detail, focus on sustainable and economical design come thru with grace and a professionalism that truly sets them apart. I have worked with Mary Jo and Russ from ground zero to create a second home for our family in the woods of CT. They came highly recommended both by previous clients and contractors and they have surpassed all of our expectations. They are remarkable listeners and have reflected that in their documentation as well as their design. They have a commitment to their word and their projections on cost and quality that is very satisfying to work with. Contractors like to work with them and respect their style and expertise. I have significant experience in previous extensive remodels and residential building projects. I can't imagine ever doing an architectural project with another team after finding this gem!