As the owner of M. Shawn Leatherwood & Associates, P.L.L.C., I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and my firm.  We understand that choosing an Architect is as important of a decision as selecting a development, selecting a building lot or selecting a contractor.  For those reasons, I would like to give you some insight into our services, skills and business philosophy. 

We are a full service Architectural firm which specializes in vacation, luxury and estate custom homes.  We place an emphasis on quality design and unmatched service to our clients.  We have designed homes in some of the most prominent developments throughout the region.  Our range not only covers Asheville and the surrounding areas, we extend into North Georgia, the mountains of South Carolina, Eastern Tennessee and well into the Piedmont area of North Carolina.  Our specialty is in designing homes that are uniquely of mountain style with a touch of timeless elegance. 
 
We specialize in full service, from initial design concepts through complete working drawings, assisting in the bid and contractor negotiations phase, construction observation and review of pay applications on our client’s behalf.  In addition to the typical construction documents our drawing set includes interior elevations, molding selections, fireplace elevations, electrical plans, window specifications, and cabinet/kitchen design and specification.  We also provide fixture selection and hardware specification as part of our standard service.  Our CAD construction drawings are clear and accurate - helping to answer questions and control costs. We take pride in our designs and strive to create unique, timeless buildings in a variety of architectural styles.
 
It is our belief that a successful project should be approached as a "team concept" with all parties having an open line of communication, standards for excellence and most of all a level of trust and accountability to each other.  Ultimately, the Architect and Contactor work for the client but must always remain as separate entities so that they can provide a system of “checks and balances” for their clients.  It is not about a lack of trust but more about a level of accountability.  Each holds the other accountable for their actions which gives the client the best possible outcome for their project.
 
Finally, we conduct an affiliated land conservation and development practice. This reflects our belief that building and buildings are simply elements within a larger process of creation and preservation.  As members of The Western North Carolina Green Building Council, we understand the health and environmental impacts of design and construction on the area in which we live and take careful consideration to minimize the impact of each new project.
 
We would enjoy the opportunity to talk with you about your new home and see if the services we provide could be of assistance in making your dream become reality.  Feel free to call me if you have any questions or would like to schedule a meeting to discuss your project. 
 
Sincerely,
M. Shawn Leatherwood, A.I.A.