COURT ATKINS GROUP - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Interior Designer
- Principal
- Principal, Interior Designer / Savannah College of Art & Design
A seasoned interior designer and industry expert, Adrienne brings almost 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality and residential design to the Court Atkins Group interiors team. Finding inspiration in her years of traveling throughout Europe, Adrienne loves to blur the lines between traditional and contemporary styles, mixing classic design elements with unexpected, locally sourced materials. A graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design with a BFA in Interior Design, Adrienne joined J. Banks Design Group in Hilton Head and began working internationally at Castello di Casole in Tuscany, Italy. The 41-suite hotel built on the ruins of a tenth-century castle received Boutique Design's Gold Key Award for Outstanding Resort Design. Since joining Court Atkins Group, Adrienne has led multiple iconic residential design projects and continues to inspire clients and colleagues.
Job Titles:
- Principal, Construction Administrator
- Principal, Construction Administrator / Savannah College of Art & Design
Andy joined Court Atkins Group in 2012, bringing over 20 years of industry experience in all phases of design and construction. A SCAD graduate with a master's degree from the School of Architecture, Andy began his architecture career in Vail, later opening his own studio near Lake Oconee, Georgia, before returning to the Lowcountry. While building his career, Andy has also built an incredible family with his wife, Joy, and they are raising their son and daughter in Savannah.
Job Titles:
- Project Architect
- Project Architect / Cornell University
Project Architect Annette Lippert brings a diverse collection of skills to Court Atkins Group from Virginia, the Boston area, and around the globe, including roles in Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy. Annette's primary focus has been steering projects in the public, institutional and commercial sectors of architecture, and enjoys designing spaces that enhance the activities in them. Annette received her Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University and now serves on the Town of Hilton Head Island DRB. Annette is also a formally trained fine furniture maker and is passionate about baking, scuba diving, tennis, and travel.
Job Titles:
- Project Manager
- Project Manager / University of Cincinnati
Ashley joins us from the University of Cincinnati, where she earned her BS in architectural engineering and MA in architecture. While there, Ashley interned with the Court Atkins Group team twice, where she promptly fell in love with the Lowcountry. Ashley was an instrumental part of the 2022 Southern Living Idea Home and the 2020 HGTV Dream Home design team and also takes the lead as Court Atkins Group's "Fun Czar," the chairman of all social events and extra-curricular activities. In her free time, Ashley and her husband, Matt, love to try new restaurants in Savannah and walk their dog, Stella. Ashley continues to impress all with her fierce commitment to distance running and the ultra-marathon circuit.
Job Titles:
- Senior Project Leader
- Senior Project Leader / Andrews University
A very friendly, yet still stubborn New Englander, Ben Reeves began his career in high-end residential with nearly 8 years at Austin Patterson Disston Architects with work focused throughout Fairfield County and West Hampton Dunes. Switching gears to the Lowcountry, he moved to Beaufort for project management experience at Allison Ramsey Architects and now brings it together as Senior Project Leader. At home, Ben likes to work with his wife on an endless list of art projects that include drawing, working with clay and sometimes lots of cardboard. If not running a 5k with their son, you'll find them on the floor building the latest nerdy LEGO set.
Job Titles:
- Interior Design Assistant
- Junior Designer
- Junior Designer / Western Carolina University
Interior Design Assistant Cali Hitt joined Court Atkins Group in 2017 after earning her BS in interior design at Western Carolina University, where she minored in art and spent time abroad in Italy and Greece. Cali's previous experience includes assisting Design Associates in Wrightsville Beach, NC, and she hopes to bring a fresh perspective to client selections to showcase their individual personalities and styles. In her free time, Cali enjoys tending to her vegetable and flower garden and taking her dogs for walks.
Job Titles:
- Design Architect
- Design Architect / University of Cincinnati
A project leader on the residential design team at the Starland Studio, Chris led the implementation of Revit at both Court Atkins Group studios, creating the training curriculum for staff members while refining applications and becoming more integrated into the schematic design process. The recipient of his Master of Architecture degree from nearby SCAD, Chris earned his BS in architecture at the University of Cincinnati. His experience includes project manager at Marmol Radziner [Los Angeles], a firm specializing in high-end residential projects, along with internships at CAG, BHDP Architecture [Cincinnati], and Interior Architects [Washington D.C.]. Chris and his wife, Chloe, enjoy hiking with their pups, Oliver and Hugh, and searching for the best foodie spots in whichever city they are in.
Job Titles:
- Interior Design Assistant
- Interior Design Assistant / University of Florida
A native Floridian, Danielle joins Court Atkins Group after her recent graduation from the University of Florida. An alumni of their combined degree program, she holds both a Bachelor of Design (bDes) and a Master of Interior Design (MID). Danielle's previous work experience includes an internship at the renowned Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) in Miami, where she honed her design skills working on high-end hospitality projects. In her free time, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, shopping, yoga, eating sushi, and going to the beach.
Job Titles:
- Principal, Interior Design Director
- Principal, Interior Design Director / Purdue University
Deborah is widely recognized in the industry for her stylish, understated residential and hospitality design. After graduating from Purdue University with a BS in interior design, she relocated to the Lowcountry in 1986 to begin her entrepreneurial career. She committed her talents exclusively to the interior design industry in 1993, with a focus on high-end residential, luxury hotels and signature restaurant projects.
Discovering new sources and the latest design innovations allows Deborah to bring a fresh approach to each project. Her sharp eye for detail, scale, and balance ensures her interiors are refined and tasteful interpretations of current trends and a unique reflection of each client's passions and lifestyle. Whether creating a modern Lowcountry residential environment or an engaging hospitality space, Deborah's designs are original, effortlessly livable, and continually inspired by her global travel experience.
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Studio Manager
- Principal, Studio Manager / University of Cincinnati
Derek Morphew, our highly motivated Studio Manager who's leading his Bluffton Residential team and fellow staff members into the future with Revit technology. The state-of the-art software allows architects to produce more efficient designs with an advanced level of detail. "Revit is the reason we can exceed our clients' dreams," Derek says. His last career stop was at BSA LifeStructures in Indianapolis, where his role was Graduate Architect and Designer. Derek grew up in the Hoosier State but enjoyed his taste of the South when he interned at CAG while earning his MS in Architecture at the University of Cincinnati. He later received his master's degree from the College of Architecture and Planning at Ball State University (Indianapolis).
Job Titles:
- Interior Design Assistant
- Interior Design Assistant / Savannah College of Art & Design
A 2019 Dean's List graduate from the Savannah College of Art and Design, Emily Culbert's BFA in interior design and evolving talents first earned her a role at HOK (Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum), where she worked in their Manhattan office as a design professional on the Interior Hospitality Design Team. Emily also studied abroad at SCAD's Hong Kong and Lacoste campuses, and aspires to design spaces that foster lasting memories for her clients. Her pastimes include family time, cooking, golf, and other outdoor activities.
Job Titles:
- Interior Designer
- Interior Designer / Savannah College of Art & Design
- Seasoned Interior Designer
Seasoned interior designer Gregory Vaughan brings a diverse skill set to the Court Atkins Group team, including special expertise in space planning, value engineering, color coordination, and task management. He's committed to consistent, thorough client communication, and says his passion for interior design is rooted in childhood days along the Rappahannock River near the Chesapeake Bay. He was further influenced by an uncle who focused on contemporary architecture, a contrast to the traditional Richmond home where Gregory grew up with his parents and two siblings. After graduating from SCAD, Gregory earned his first job at a Hilton Head Island firm, where he worked for three decades alongside several other local design teams. He and partner Jeffrey split their time between an 1890 Victorian Savannah home and a marsh cottage in Moss Creek. The two enjoy travel, books, yoga, food and wine plus, of course, modern design.
Job Titles:
- Business Development Coordinator
With more than twelve years of industry experience, Hailey brings a business development and client service focus to Court Atkins Group, continuously improving and introducing new methods to the ever-changing needs of the group and clientele. Born and raised in Downey, California, Hailey studied at Fullerton Community College and has additional experience in accounting, retail management, and graphic design. Hailey launched her career as an admin assistant at Jeffrey Rome & Associates, an architectural firm in Irvine, California, where she met her husband Derek, now a studio manager at CAG. The two are enjoying the Bluffton state of mind with their daughter, Scarlett, and fur-baby, Mason.
Job Titles:
- Commercial Intern
- Commercial Intern / Savannah College of Art & Design
A New Englander at heart, Hazen spent his early years between rural New Hampshire and coastal Maine, where he developed an appreciation for historic architecture at a young age. He is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design, where he studied Architecture and Historic Preservation. Hazen joined the Commercial Team at Court Atkins Group in 2022, and has recently returned to SCAD to pursue both a Master's degree, and architectural licensure.
Job Titles:
- Project Designer
- Project Designer / University of Southern Mississippi
Holland joined Court Atkins Group after graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi with a B.S. in architecture engineering technology. Holland's expertise in Revit has allowed the residential team to provide customers and the construction team with a clearer vision of the design, most notably for the 2022 Southern Living Idea House. Beyond her work at Court Atkins Group, Holland enjoys concerts, working out, and traveling. When not on the beach in Hilton Head, she can be found at a sporting event like Southern Miss or Ole Miss football games or on visits to her hometown of Huntsville, AL.
Job Titles:
- Project Designer
- Project Designer / the Pennsylvania State University
Jacob Woods arrived in the Lowcountry with an impressive skill set and industry savvy after graduating from Penn State University in 2021. With a Bachelor of Architecture and minor degrees in architectural history and landscape architecture, Jacob brings a uniquely comprehensive perspective to each project. His experience at FVHD Architects in Trenton, NJ, entailed educational design with a focus on multiple area elementary schools. As a member of CAG's commercial design team, Jacob is committed to expanding his skills and portfolio, as well as sharing his talent with Revit. When he's not on the job, Jacob is creating in the kitchen. Jacob also enjoys his free time on Hilton Head Island with a good book beachside or adventuring through the many parks in the area.
Describe your process: I'm still discovering my process - for now, it involves sprawling checklists, plenty of sketching, and some background music
Quote relevant to your work life: "Let them eat cake" … I like to eat cake and I like to make cake (or any dessert for that matter)
Job Titles:
- Founding Principal
- Founding Principal / University of Cincinnati
While raised in Ohio, James' heart has always been in the Carolinas. Before a start-up executive opportunity brought him to Bluffton, SC in 2001, James honed his architectural skills at some of the leading design firms in the country. Work experiences in Denver, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Charlotte involved designing and coordinating large healthcare, corporate, religious, retail, and emergency services architecture projects.
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Studio Manager
- Principal, Studio Manager / University of Michigan
Jason joined Court Atkins Architects, Inc. in February of 2014 with a strong foundation and experience in all phases of design and construction, from schematic design, construction documents, specifications, construction administration, and contracts. He brings over 15 years of experience as a project lead, project manager, and studio manager in new construction and renovations ranging from educational and military facilities to municipal buildings and retail complexes. Prior to beginning his professional career in architecture, he spent eight years as a military officer in the United States Marine Corps.
Job Titles:
- Project Architect
- Project Architect / Savannah College of Art & Design
Describe your process: I think of everything in outline format, breaking down large tasks into their parts and making sure that each part of each task gets addressed before moving on. This helps me keep the big picture in mind without letting things slip through the cracks.
Job Titles:
- Manager
- Principal
- Studio Manager
- Principal, Studio Manager / Savannah College of Art & Design, Master of Architecture, Summa Cum Laude 2006
Principal and Studio Manager Jen Foster spearheaded the launch of Court Atkins Group's second studio in Savannah's Starland District, a neighborhood she knows well after relocating to Savannah 16 years ago to attend SCAD. At SCAD, Jen received a bachelor's degree in fine arts and a master's degree in architecture. Born and raised in St. Louis, MO, Jen worked in Colorado as a ranch hand and equestrian instructor before heading south with her husband, Rick, when her interests turned to architecture. Jen, Rick, and their daughter Elora are currently rehabbing their 1920 house in Ardsley Park. All three are fans of outdoor adventures like camping, hiking, rafting, and scuba diving.
Staff Accountant Jennifer Chapin brings an impressive skill set to the Interior Design team. Jennifer previously worked with a local non-profit group where she led several efforts from grants facilitation to payroll and accounts receivable/payable. Jennifer also coordinated events and assisted with communication duties. She arrived in the Lowcountry from Boston where she honed her administrative, customer service, and process solutions skills for a range of businesses. As the interior design studio continues to diversify in the Lowcountry, Jennifer's skill set is greatly appreciated by the team. Her favorite pastime is spending time with and spoiling her niece and nephew.
Job Titles:
- Project Architect
- Project Architect / Savannah College of Art & Design
From conception through construction, Project Architect Jenny Miezejeski steers residential projects with a highly creative and detail-oriented approach. Jenny makes team collaboration and client solutions her priority at Court Atkins Group, evolving project designs and advancing drawing quality. She is NCARB certified and a LEED accredited professional. Born and raised in rural Central New York, Jenny came to Savannah, GA for architectural school at SCAD. Jenny fell in love with the charm of the southern city and its warm weather. Savannah is now her second home and where she raises her two daughters, Corinne and Alaina. The three can often be found crafting at Henny Penny, picnicking at Forsyth Park or biking the island trails.
Job Titles:
- Project Architect
- Project Architect / Clemson University
Project Architect Kert Huggins is a familiar face around the Lowcountry. Prior to joining Court Atkins Group, he was an owner/architect at his dad's Hilton Head residential design firm, Kermit Huggins Architecture & Design, Inc. Kert also assisted with research and development, government, and healthcare projects at a Gainesville, FL, firm. Kert earned multiple degrees from Clemson including a Master of Architecture and a B.S. in recreation and tourism management. Former president of Clemson's White Water Club, Kert still pursues his passion for the outdoors by fishing, biking, hiking, camping and paddling whenever he can. Kert and his wife, Elizabeth, have a daughter, Laura, who is a current student at Clemson studying art and digital design and loves to dote on the family pups, Little Bit and Lilly.
Job Titles:
- Allied Member ASID, Junior Designer
- Allied Member ASID, Junior Designer / West Virginia University
Lowcountry native Madison Wall grew up in Ridgeland and Hilton Head, SC, spending her time on the local rivers and beaches. She graduated with honors from West Virginia University with a bachelor of science in interior design, a minor in sustainable design, and received her LEED Green Associate Accreditation. Madison values the importance of community involvement and is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Professional Women in Building (PWB), and serves on the HHAHBA Lighthouse Awards Committee. She has always resonated with the mindset of service before self and aims to combine historical preservation with timeless design trends in her projects. Her pastimes include boating, beaching, and cheering on the Mountaineers!
Job Titles:
- Senior Project Leader / Kansas State University
Senior Project Leader Matt Frye received his Bachelor of Architecture at Kansas State University after studying environmental design at the University of Missouri (Kansas City). Matt then honed his skills at several area firms, including one of the Lowcountry's premier studios, Hall & Hull. He's a native of Missouri, yet his career success is grounded in South Carolina where he met his wife, Melissa. Their son Miles excels at baseball while Molly champions a spunky spirit. In his free time, Matt enjoys the outdoors and working on/driving cars.
Job Titles:
- Bluffton Residential Team As a Senior Project Leader
- Senior Project Leader
- Senior Project Leader / University of Massachusetts
Neal A. Sullivan joined the Bluffton residential team as a Senior Project Leader with over 35 years of custom residential design, administration, and construction management experience. With a diverse work history ranging from architectural design firm ownership on St. John, USVI, to serving as Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity in Martha's Vineyard, and most recently as a project manager with Spivey Architects of Charleston, SC, Neal delivers on experience. Having earned a bachelor's degree in environmental design from the University of Massachusetts, Neal started off as a residential journeyman carpenter in the coastal regions of Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard working with his hands toward his ultimate goal of custom residential design. "I learned that spatial concepts like massing, scale and proportion impact not only aesthetic but also how we experience and feel walking through a building." It was this emotional tug that inspired Neal to pursue residential design. As an early adopter of design technology, Neal first began producing CAD drawings in the early 90s and has been using building information modeling software to design custom coastal homes for over 20 years. On the home front, Neal and his wife, Rosette, enjoy crafting their shared visions into reality with projects at the Lowcountry cottage they designed and built in Port Royal. When not pushing a track-ball mouse at work or swinging a hammer at home, Neal relishes playing soccer in the Charleston Masters League and walking Ms. Vienna pup at Hunting Island Beach.
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Project Architect
Job Titles:
- Principal, Senior Design Architect