Every home has a story.
It’s written in the way your family moves through the kitchen on a Tuesday morning. In the laughter around the table at a holiday meal. In the way a guest feels welcomed when they walk through your door, or your grown kids relax when they come home for a visit.
My job is to help you tell that story well.
I’m a mom of two humans and one dog, and the wife of a teacher. I work from home, building this practice around carpools and soccer games, and I know exactly what it feels like to have a renovation on your to-do list while life is already full. I start my mornings with coffee and a book when I can manage it. I spend time outside whenever possible. And I bring all of that — the practical, the personal, the lived-in — to every project I take on.
My approach is sustainable, thoughtful, and collaborative. I listen before I design. I ask about the way you actually live, not the way you imagine you might live. With a foundation of timeless design principles I work to design a beautiful home that reflects you — your story, your values, and the family that lives inside it.
Over 75% of my clients come through referrals. I think that’s because I show up the way a good guide should: steady, honest, and genuinely invested in where you end up. That trust in me gets passed along, and that matters more to me than any other measure of success.
If you’re ready to start your home design journey, I’d love to be part of your adventure. I’ve listed a few frequently asked questions below, and you can click the button below to get in touch with me.
— Heather
I’m Heather Schlender — a licensed architect with 19 years of experience and a genuine belief that good design should be accessible to anyone, not just people with deep pockets or sprawling lots. I serve homeowners in western North Carolina and the upstate of South Carolina who are ready to stop fighting their house and start flourishing in it.
I didn’t take a straight line to get here. I started college studying creative writing and history — learning how stories are built and why they matter. I spent several years working in outdoor education before returning to school to earn my Masters of Architecture. After graduating in 2007, I worked at a mid-sized firm designing schools, libraries, and civic buildings before leaving to raise my kids. In 2019, I started Heather Schlender, Architect with a specific vision: a residential practice that was hands-on, accessible, and focused entirely on the people living in the homes I design.
That vision still drives everything I do.
What People Are Saying
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Heather was wonderful to work with on our home projects. She is very practical, really listens, and has a great ability to understand how our family would actually use the space—not just how it looks on paper.
— Renovation Client
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[Heather] was incredibly attentive to every detail and always kept energy efficiency at the forefront of her recommendations. The way she incorporated materials and smart design choices made my barndominium not only beautiful but also eco-friendly and comfortable year-round.
— New Home Client
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Heather designed my new home following Helene’s destruction. She addressed what was needed and then creatively added details to make it more functional and pleasing... she was tremendously supportive during a tumultuous time.
— Former Customer
FAQs
What architecture services do you offer?
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From a Design Consultation to a full home renovation to a new custom home, I offer a variety of design solutions tailored to meet your needs no matter the size of your home or your budget. Click on the Services tab above to learn more.
No problem! Use the button below to schedule a Discovery Call and I can help you determine the service that meets your design needs and budget.
I’ve never worked with an architect- how do I get started?
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Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form or schedule a Discovery Call—I’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.
What makes you different?
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I use a thoughtful, collaborative and sustainable design process to create designs that are rooted in who you are and how you live. I want to design a home that reflects your values and passions, and supports the life you long to live. One part practical and one part philosophical, this process is focused on giving you a home that reflects your story.
This is a complicated question! I know it is where most folks start when thinking about a new home or renovation project, but there are many factors that contribute to the answer. First, visit my blog at the tab above and read the articles I have written on determining the budget for your new home or renovation. Next, use the button below to schedule a Discovery Call or reach out to me via the contact form to discuss it further.
How can I contact you?
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You can reach me anytime via my contact page. I aim to respond quickly—usually within two business day.