designWise studio is a small, flexible firm located in the heart of Western North Carolina. We specialize in regionally inspired contemporary residential design with a focus on owner collaboration and care.
As a small studio, we have tight control over fees, schedules, and the amount of time we can spend with our clients. We can custom tailor our services to fit the your needs.
With nearly 30 years experience, we have worked across multiple scales of buildings and budgets, from Federal Courthouses to small renovations. We are passionate about bringing good design that enhances the lives of our clients and of our surroundings.
Our philosophy centers around a simplicity in design that emphasizes form, proportion, and scale. We believe these are the bedrock tenets of architecture. We understand architecture as a language that everyone can be conversant in.
About us
About Lauren Wise:
Lauren received his undergraduate degree in Environmental Science from Warren Wilson College. After working in residential construction for many years, he went on to earn his Master of Architecture degree at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. In all, Lauren has nearly 30 years of experience in the home building industry.
Lauren believes strongly in the collaborative nature of architecture and the importance of nurturing strong connections with team members, clients, and builders through active listening and clear communication. Deeply influenced by the area’s rich history of vernacular architecture, Lauren understands how well-executed design can enrich the lives of clients and make a positive economic, cultural, and aesthetic impact on the region.
Public service is deeply important to Lauren, especially in the Brevard/Transylvania County community. He is currently a member of the Brevard City Council. Previously, he sat on the Joint Historic Preservation Committee, was chair of the Transylvania County Planning Board, and is currently sitting on the Ecusta Trail Advisory Board. He is also a U.S. Army Combat Veteran.
Lauren has worked with:
Ken Gaylord/Blackhawk Construction
Keith Hargrove Architect
Key Projects:
Moog Headquarters, Asheville
Buncombe County Courthouse, Asheville
Key Projects:
Key Projects:
