Roberts Design Group: Architecture and Design Services in South Carolina

What Roberts Design Group Does

Roberts Design Group is an architecture firm based in South Carolina that works on residential, commercial, and institutional projects. The firm handles the full design process—from initial concept through construction documents—and can guide clients through permitting and construction administration. Their work spans new construction, renovations, and adaptive reuse projects across the state.

The firm brings together architects and designers who work directly with clients to understand their needs, site conditions, and budget constraints. Rather than applying a single style to every project, Roberts Design Group tailors their approach to each building's purpose and context. This means a residential renovation in the Lowcountry may look and feel entirely different from a commercial project in the Upstate, because the climate, materials, and local character are different.

Key Takeaways

• Roberts Design Group handles residential, commercial, and institutional projects from concept through construction completion.
• The firm works with clients to understand site conditions, budget, and local building codes before finalizing a design.
• Services include initial design consultation, construction documents, permitting support, and on-site oversight during building.
• South Carolina's climate and regional building traditions shape how the firm approaches each project.

Residential Design and Renovation

For homeowners, Roberts Design Group takes on new houses, major renovations, and additions. The process typically begins with a consultation where the architects listen to how you actually live in your home—where you cook, how you entertain, what natural light matters most. They then develop designs that fit both your lifestyle and your property's constraints, whether that means working with a narrow urban lot, a sloped site, or an existing structure that needs updating.

Renovation work often involves navigating older homes' quirks—uneven floors, outdated systems, or historical details worth preserving. The firm can help you decide what to keep, what to replace, and how to add modern function without erasing a home's character. They also manage the technical side: making sure new work meets current building codes, coordinates with plumbing and electrical systems, and won't cause moisture or structural problems down the road.

Commercial and Institutional Projects

Roberts Design Group also designs office buildings, retail spaces, medical facilities, and other commercial work. These projects require understanding how a business actually operates—where customers enter, how staff moves through the space, what equipment needs to fit where. The architects work with business owners and managers to create spaces that function well and reflect the organization's identity.

Institutional projects—schools, community centers, government buildings—add another layer of complexity. These buildings serve the public and often need to meet specific codes for accessibility, safety, and durability. Roberts Design Group's experience with these project types means they understand the regulations and can design spaces that are both compliant and welcoming.

The Design Process and Timeline

A typical project moves through several phases. The first is programming and site analysis: the architects visit your property, measure it, understand how sun and wind move across it, and talk through your vision. They may sketch ideas and discuss options before committing to a direction.

Once you and the firm agree on a design direction, they develop construction documents—detailed drawings and specifications that contractors use to build. This phase can take weeks or months depending on project size and complexity. After that comes permitting, which involves submitting drawings to your local building department and responding to any questions or required changes. Finally, during construction, the architects can visit the site regularly to make sure the building is being built as designed and to address any questions that come up.

The full timeline from first meeting to finished building varies widely. A simple renovation might take six months from start to finish; a larger commercial project could take two years or more. Roberts Design Group can give you a more specific estimate once they understand your project's scope.

Working With Local Building Codes and Climate

South Carolina's building environment is distinct. The state's hot, humid summers and coastal weather patterns mean that ventilation, moisture management, and material durability matter more than they do in drier climates. Building codes in coastal areas are stricter about wind resistance and flood protection. Historic districts have their own design guidelines. Roberts Design Group's experience in South Carolina means they already know these requirements and can design accordingly rather than learning them on your project's dime.

The firm also understands regional building traditions—the way Lowcountry homes use porches and deep overhangs to manage heat, or how Upstate architecture reflects different settlement patterns and materials. This knowledge helps them create designs that feel at home in their surroundings rather than imported from somewhere else.

Getting Started With Roberts Design Group

The first step is to contact the firm with a description of your project. They'll discuss whether it's a good fit for their services and what the initial consultation might look like. Some firms charge for the first meeting; others offer it free. It's worth asking what to expect and what to bring—photos of your site, a rough budget, any existing drawings or surveys if you have them.

Before you meet, think about what you actually want from the project. Not just the end result, but how you'll use the space, what matters most to you, and what constraints you're working within. The more clearly you can articulate this, the better the architects can serve you. Bring any inspiration images, examples of spaces you love, or descriptions of how you want to feel in the finished building.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire an architect?

Architect fees vary based on project size, complexity, and the scope of services. Some firms charge a percentage of construction cost (typically 5 to 15 percent); others charge hourly rates or a flat fee for specific phases. Roberts Design Group can discuss their fee structure during your initial conversation and explain what services are included at each price point.

Do I need an architect for a small renovation?

For very small projects—a new deck, a bathroom refresh—you might not need full architectural services. For anything involving structural changes, additions, or work in a historic district, an architect's involvement usually saves money by catching problems early and ensuring the work meets code. A consultation can help you decide whether full design services make sense for your project.

How long does the design phase take?

Design timelines depend on project complexity and how quickly you make decisions. A straightforward renovation might take two to three months from first sketch to finished construction documents. A larger or more complex project could take six months or longer. Roberts Design Group can give you a more specific timeline once they understand your scope.

Will the architect be involved during construction?

Many architects offer construction administration services, which means they visit the site periodically to check that the building is being built as designed. This catches problems early and helps resolve questions that come up. Ask Roberts Design Group whether this service is included in their fee or available as an add-on.

What if I'm working with a contractor I've already hired?

Architects can work with contractors you've selected, or they can recommend contractors they've worked with before. Either way, clear communication between architect and contractor is important. Discuss this arrangement during your initial meeting so everyone understands the roles and responsibilities.