Business Details
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Charlottesville
Henningsen Kestner is a distinguished architectural firm with over two decades of experience crafting innovative design solutions for diverse projects across the East Coast. Our team specializes in commercial, multi-family, and custom residential architecture, with a proven track record in golf clubhouses, country clubs, mixed-use developments, and institutional facilities. We combine artistic vision with technical expertise to maximize the potential of every property, whether nestled in natural landscapes or situated in urban environments.Our principals bring 25+ years of leadership in architectural design, project management, and regulatory approvals, ensuring client satisfaction through collaborative relationships and meticulous attention to budget, schedule, and long-term value. With registered architects licensed in multiple states and NCARB-certified professionals, we deliver tailored solutions that enhance spatial value while maintaining sensitivity to regional contexts and client needs.
Services
Architectural Design
Commercial Projects
Multi-Family Housing
Single-Family Homes
Clubhouse Design
Resort Architecture
Historic Renovations
Government Approvals
Space Planning
Project Management
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of architectural experience across diverse project types.
- Our team includes NCARB-certified architects licensed in multiple states.
- We maintain sensitivity to budget and schedule while ensuring quality.
- Our principals have obtained critical government approvals for complex projects.
- We serve clients from Florida to Massachusetts with regional expertise.
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- U.S. Green Building Council
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions for commercial, residential, and institutional projects. Our process integrates client vision with technical requirements to deliver functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. With expertise in diverse materials and construction methods, we ensure each design maximizes property potential while meeting regulatory standards.
Clubhouse Design
Specializing in golf and country club architecture, we design spaces that balance luxury with practicality. Our portfolio includes new constructions and renovations for dining areas, pro shops, and recreational facilities. We focus on creating member-centric environments that enhance community experiences while maintaining operational efficiency.
Historic Renovations
We preserve architectural heritage through careful restoration and adaptive reuse. Our approach maintains historical integrity while incorporating modern amenities and code compliance. This includes work on protected landmarks and traditional buildings requiring structural upgrades or functional transformations for contemporary use.
Regulatory Approvals
Our team navigates complex zoning laws and approval processes for residential and commercial developments. We prepare detailed documentation for special use permits, rezoning requests, and architectural review board submissions. This expertise streamlines project timelines and reduces bureaucratic obstacles for clients.
Project Management
We provide comprehensive project management from concept through construction. Our services include budget tracking, timeline coordination, and quality control during building phases. This ensures designs are implemented accurately while addressing any challenges that arise during development.
People
Mark Kestner
CEO | Principal & Co-Founder
Registered architect with 25+ years of experience in design and management. Specializes in religious, historic, and resort projects. Licensed in Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida. Graduated from University of Virginia and North Carolina State University. Member of AIA.
Chris Henningsen
President | Principal & Co-Founder
25+ years of architectural experience with expertise in healthcare, education, and resort projects. Licensed in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. LEED Accredited Professional. Graduated from Carnegie Mellon University. Member of AIA.
Caitlin Byrd Schafer
Registered Architect
15 years of architectural experience with focus on project management and graphic design. Specializes in education and healthcare projects. Graduated from Virginia Tech in 2010. Member of the American Institute of Architects.
Frankie Venable
Architectural Associate
Graduated with BS in Architecture from Georgia Tech. Focuses on educational and municipal projects. Joined HKA in 2021 after working in Dalton, Georgia. Passionate about community-centered design.
Quentin Venable
Architectural Associate
Joined HKA in 2023 after completing Masters in Architecture at University of Virginia. Previously worked with Frankie at Dalton, Georgia firm. Specializes in K-12 educational and municipal projects.
Questions
What types of architectural projects does Henningsen Kestner specialize in?
We specialize in commercial, multi-family, and single-family residential projects, with extensive experience in clubhouses, resorts, historic renovations, and institutional facilities across the East Coast.
Are your architects licensed in multiple states?
Yes, our principals hold architectural licenses in Virginia, North Carolina, Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, with NCARB certification for additional jurisdictions.
How does Henningsen Kestner handle complex regulatory approvals?
Our team has extensive experience obtaining zoning variances, special use permits, and architectural review board approvals through strategic planning and documentation.
Can you work on historic preservation projects?
Yes, we combine modern functionality with historic integrity, having completed preservation work for landmarks like the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Charlottesville, Virginia, we serve clients from Florida to Massachusetts, with completed projects in nine East Coast states.
