Martelli Architects: Charleston's Modernist Design Firm

Who Martelli Architects Are and What They Design

Martelli Architects is a Charleston-based firm known for modernist residential and commercial design that respects the city's architectural character while introducing contemporary elements. Founded by architect James Martelli, the practice has built a reputation for clean lines, thoughtful spatial planning, and projects that integrate with Charleston's historic neighborhoods and coastal landscape.

The firm works primarily on single-family homes, renovations, and select commercial projects throughout the Lowcountry. Their designs often feature open floor plans, large windows that frame views, and materials chosen for durability in South Carolina's climate. Rather than imposing a signature style, Martelli Architects tailors each project to its site, client needs, and context—whether that means working within a historic district's guidelines or designing new construction on undeveloped land.

Key Takeaways

• Martelli Architects specializes in modernist residential design and renovation work across Charleston and the Lowcountry.
• The firm is experienced in navigating Charleston's historic district design review processes and coastal building requirements.
• Their work emphasizes spatial planning, natural light, and material choices suited to South Carolina's climate and landscape.
• You can view completed projects and contact information through their website or by reaching out directly to discuss your project scope.

Types of Projects Martelli Architects Takes On

The firm handles new residential construction, home renovations, and adaptive reuse projects. This includes everything from updating a single room to a complete gut renovation of an older home, as well as designing new houses on vacant lots. They also take on commercial work, though residential projects form the bulk of their portfolio.

Many of their projects sit in or near Charleston's historic districts, which means the architects must work within strict design guidelines set by the city's Board of Architectural Review. This constraint often shapes the design approach—respecting setbacks, rooflines, and material palettes while still achieving a modern interior or contemporary addition. Projects outside the historic core offer more design freedom but still respond to neighborhood character and environmental factors like salt spray and flooding risk.

How to Contact Martelli Architects for a Project

Reach out through their website or phone to schedule an initial consultation. During this meeting, you'll discuss your project scope, budget range, timeline, and site constraints. The firm typically works with clients who are committed to design quality and willing to invest in materials and craftsmanship that will last.

Bring any existing site plans, photos of the property, and a sense of how you want to live in or use the space. If your project is in a historic district, mention that early—it affects the design process and timeline, since the firm will need to submit designs for review before construction begins. The architects can walk you through what that process looks like and what to expect.

Understanding Design Fees and Project Costs

Architectural fees vary based on project complexity, size, and scope. A renovation in a historic district typically costs more in design time than new construction on an open site, because of the review process and the need to work within existing constraints. The firm usually charges either a percentage of construction cost or a fixed fee, depending on the project type.

Construction costs themselves depend on materials, finishes, location, and current market conditions. Martelli Architects can give you a realistic sense of what your project might cost once they understand the scope, but the best approach is to discuss budget early and honestly. The architects can help you prioritize where to invest and where to simplify, so the design works within your means.

What to Expect During the Design and Construction Process

The typical timeline runs from initial design through construction documents to bidding and then construction itself. Early phases involve sketches and conversations about how you want to live in the space. Once you approve a direction, the architects develop more detailed drawings that contractors can bid from and that the city (or historic district board) can review.

If your project requires historic district approval, expect that review to add four to eight weeks to the timeline. The board meets monthly, and resubmissions are common if the first proposal doesn't align with guidelines. Once you have approvals and a contractor in place, construction timelines vary widely—a kitchen renovation might take three months, while a full house renovation or new build can run a year or longer.

Martelli Architects' Design Philosophy

The firm's work reflects a belief that good architecture should be both beautiful and practical. This means designing spaces that work well for how people actually live, not just how they photograph. It also means choosing materials and details that will weather South Carolina's humidity, salt air, and occasional flooding without constant maintenance.

Modernism in the Lowcountry context doesn't mean glass boxes or stark minimalism. Instead, Martelli Architects often draws on regional building traditions—deep porches, natural ventilation, local materials—and reinterprets them for contemporary living. The result is work that feels at home in Charleston while being distinctly of the present moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Martelli Architects work on projects outside Charleston?

Yes, the firm takes on work throughout the Lowcountry, including Beaufort, Kiawah Island, and other coastal areas. Projects farther inland or upstate are possible depending on the firm's current workload. Call to discuss your location and project type.

Can they help with a renovation if I'm not sure what I want yet?

Yes. The initial consultation and early design phases are specifically for exploring possibilities. The architects will ask questions about how you use your home, what frustrates you about the current layout, and what you love about the space. This conversation often clarifies what you actually need before any drawings are made.

What if my project is in a historic district?

Martelli Architects has extensive experience with Charleston's Board of Architectural Review and similar bodies in other historic districts. They understand the guidelines and can design within them while still achieving your goals. The process takes longer and costs more in design time, but the architects handle the submissions and revisions.

How do I know if my budget is realistic for my project?

Discuss budget during your first meeting. The architects can give you a rough cost estimate based on similar projects, local construction costs, and your scope. If your budget and vision don't align, they can help you adjust the scope or phasing so the project works financially.

Do they offer interior design services?

Martelli Architects focuses on architectural design—the building itself, layout, and structure. For interior finishes, furnishings, and decoration, they can recommend local interior designers they've worked with, but that's typically a separate service and fee.