Business Details
13 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architect for Custom Residential Design in Greenwich, CT
Charles Hilton Architects has been a trusted leader in residential architectural design for over three decades. Our firm combines classical elegance with modern functionality, creating spaces that reflect each client's unique vision while honoring timeless design principles. With deep expertise in sustainable practices and waterfront projects, we prioritize personalized service, meticulous attention to detail, and seamless integration of homes within their natural environments. Our team's decades of collective experience ensures every project benefits from proven expertise in traditional architecture, innovative problem-solving, and cutting-edge green building technologies.We maintain strong relationships with artisans, engineers, and local authorities to deliver exceptional results that exceed expectations. Our commitment to quality is evidenced by over 100 design awards and features in prestigious publications like The Classical American House and Classic Greenwich Houses. By focusing on humanistic architecture that enhances daily living, we've built a reputation as the premier choice for discerning clients across the northeastern United States.
Services
Residential Architecture
Sustainable Design
Waterfront Projects
Home Renovations
Outbuilding Design
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- 34 years of experience in custom residential architecture with over 100 design awards
- Specialized expertise in sustainable building practices and waterfront projects
- Personalized service with direct involvement from senior architects
- Proven track record of successful projects in Fairfield and Westchester counties
- Deep understanding of local zoning regulations and architectural heritage
What people say
Highest recommendation
Professional and detail-oriented
Exceeded all expectations
Seamlessly combined modern and traditional
Stress-free renovation experience
Services
Residential Architecture
Our residential architecture services create custom homes that balance classical elegance with modern functionality. We collaborate closely with clients to develop designs that reflect personal tastes while respecting site-specific characteristics. With expertise in Georgian, Shingle Style, and French Normandy residences, we ensure each home integrates seamlessly with its environment. Our process combines traditional craftsmanship with sustainable technologies like geothermal heating and solar panels.
Sustainable Design
We incorporate sustainable practices into every project through energy-efficient systems and healthy building materials. Our approach includes geothermal heating, LED lighting, and home automation systems that reduce environmental impact without compromising aesthetics. This commitment to sustainability has earned recognition in publications like Sleepy Cat Farm: A Gardener's Journey and The Classical American House.
Waterfront Projects
Specializing in waterfront homes and outbuildings, we maximize views while addressing unique environmental challenges. Our designs for lakeside pavilions, oceanfront bungalows, and coastal estates maintain structural integrity against weather elements. We've completed over 400 projects in coastal Connecticut and New York, balancing beauty with practical considerations like erosion control and material durability.
Home Renovations
Our renovation services preserve architectural character while modernizing functionality. We specialize in updating historic homes with contemporary amenities, from kitchen expansions to complete interior overhauls. The team maintains original design elements while integrating smart home technology and energy-efficient upgrades, ensuring renovations feel like natural extensions of existing structures.
Outbuilding Design
We design complementary outbuildings that enhance primary residences while serving specific needs. From pool houses and garden pavilions to guest cottages and agricultural structures, each project maintains stylistic continuity with the main property. Our portfolio includes award-winning designs like the Celestial Garden Gazebo and Westchester Colonial Guest House.
People
Charles Hilton
Founder & Lead Architect
With 34 years of experience, Charles Hilton established the firm in 2013 after co-founding his first practice in 1991. A licensed architect and interior designer, he has completed over 400 projects across the Northeast. His work has earned national recognition including Palladio Awards and induction into the New England Home Design Hall of Fame.
David Newcomb
Associate Partner
David Newcomb has worked with Charles Hilton since 1993, becoming an Associate Partner in 2005. He manages project planning and design while sharing technical expertise with the team. A Connecticut-licensed architect, David brings extensive knowledge of traditional architecture and urban planning to each commission.
Nicholas Rotondi
Project Manager
Nicholas Rotondi joined the firm in 2013 after working with Charles Hilton since 2010. He oversees project execution and manages marketing operations. Nick's design expertise contributed to the award-winning September 11th Memorial in Greenwich and the firm's first monograph, Classic Greenwich Houses.
Jason Wyman
Project Manager
Jason Wyman has been with the firm since 2012, managing projects from conception to completion. He integrates technology into architectural practice while maintaining traditional design principles. Jason also leads international service projects, including the House of Compassion in Ukraine.
Scott Dakin
Project Manager
Scott Dakin joined in 2023 with over 25 years of architectural experience. A LEED-certified architect licensed in three states, he brings expertise in both residential and commercial design. Scott previously led design teams for Ralph Lauren stores and maintains a strong background in traditional restoration.
Questions
What architectural styles does Charles Hilton Architects specialize in?
We specialize in traditional styles including Georgian, Shingle Style, French Normandy, and Beaux-Arts. Our designs incorporate classical detailing while integrating modern amenities for contemporary living.
Do you work on projects outside of Connecticut and New York?
While our focus is Fairfield County, CT and Westchester County, NY, we've completed projects across the United States, including Maine, California, and Florida.
How does the design process work?
Our process begins with understanding client needs and site characteristics. We develop customized designs through collaborative meetings, detailed drawings, and material selections, maintaining involvement through construction completion.
Are sustainable building practices included in all projects?
We incorporate sustainable elements like geothermal systems and LED lighting in every project, tailoring solutions to each home's specific needs and client preferences.
What awards has the firm received?
We've earned over 100 design awards including Palladio Awards, McKim Mead & White Awards, and multiple AIA-CT Alice Washburn Awards for residential architecture excellence.
How can I schedule a consultation?
Contact our Greenwich office through our website or phone to arrange an initial consultation with our lead architects to discuss your project vision.
