How It All Began
In 2000, Army veteran Brian Wells arrived in Charleston with a vision: combine world-class architectural design with structural engineering expertise under one roof. Today, Coastal Creek Design transforms how Charleston homes are designed and built, delivering seamless integration from concept to completion. Learn more about our story in the video below!
What Sets Us Apart
Military Roots
After serving as an Army Officer, Brian Wells arrived in Charleston in 2000 and immediately immersed himself in residential construction. This hands-on building experience proved invaluable, providing deep insights into both the artistic vision and practical realities of home design. Understanding both sides of the construction process laid the foundation for our unique integrated approach to residential design in the Lowcountry.
Engineering Insight
Moving into structural engineering, Brian gained crucial perspectives from Charleston builders and developers who consistently expressed frustration with traditional architectural processes. The disconnect between architectural vision and structural requirements often led to delays, revisions, and increased costs. This feedback became the catalyst for reimagining how residential design could work when engineers and architects collaborate from the start
Vision to Reality
In 2018, Brian began assembling an expert architectural team to work alongside his established structural engineering practice. This pioneering approach in Charleston’s residential design industry immediately showed results. By combining architectural creativity with structural expertise under one roof, projects moved faster, encountered fewer obstacles, and delivered better results for homeowners.
One Team
As Charleston’s only residential design firm with in-house architectural and structural teams, we’ve created a seamless workflow that considers both beauty and buildability from day one. This unique integration eliminates the typical back-and-forth between separate firms, reduces errors, and speeds up the entire design process. Our architects and engineers collaborate daily, ensuring every design decision considers both aesthetic and structural implications.
Smart Solutions
Our integrated model emerged from real-world challenges in Charleston residential design. By addressing structural considerations during the creative process, we prevent the typical delays and revisions that occur when these disciplines work separately. This proactive approach saves time, reduces costs, and ensures your project moves smoothly from concept to completion. Our team’s combined expertise means potential issues are identified and solved early, before they become costly problems.
Clients First
The ultimate goal was simple: make the residential design process less intimidating and more efficient for Charleston homeowners. Having both architectural and structural expertise in one location ensures clients receive comprehensive solutions that balance creativity with practicality. Our integrated approach means you get a single point of contact, clear communication, and the confidence that comes from working with a team that considers every aspect of your project from the start.