A Bit About Me
Like many Charleston architects, I’m inspired by this city. Its history, unique places, culture, and its people.
There is truly no other place like the Holy City. And there are few places that rival Charleston, SC architecture. Preserving the city’s historic spaces and creating the home you’ve always wanted is what I love to do. Now, let me tell you a bit about how I got here.
Where It All Began
Laura F. Altman, AIA
Most kids have many different ideas of what they want to do when they grow up. Mine has been the same since I was in 5th grade. And I made good on my goal by participating in a mentor program with a local architect.
Now, many decades later, I’m doing what I always said I wanted to do. After earning my B.S. in Design from Clemson University (Go Tigers!), I worked for a local firm, Meadors, Inc., here in Charleston before deciding to strike out on my own.
Today, I get the opportunity to be part of the history in this city I love. Charleston’s architecture is an integral part of the Lowcountry culture. Every day, I’m amazed to have the chance to help preserve the historic homes and spaces that make Charleston so special.
Outside of work, I still get to talk shop with my architect husband. We spend a lot of time hanging out with our two boys and love heading up to the mountains for a break from the Lowcountry.
An End-to-End Process
Building on the Past, Shaping the Future
LFA Architecture is a full-service Charleston architecture firm. That means I provide complete oversight and coordination of every aspect of the design and construction process. I’m not here to create plans and walk away. I work side by side with you from the first time you share your dream to the day you move in and beyond.
What I Do
Historic Home Renovation
Renovating a historic home is no easy task. I work with you from concept, through Charleston Board of Architectural Review approval, into construction and beyond.
New Home, Historic Design
Building in Charleston’s historic neighborhoods requires guidance from someone who can design a home that will meet city standards. I can help you create a new home that complements Charleston’s historic architecture.
Interior Architecture
A home comes together when the interior and exterior architecture are designed in conjuction. I’ll provide insight and guidance for all finishes and fixtures and implement them into the design.
Here’s Why Clients Work With Me
I Design Plans That Get Built
My experience is grounded in the construction industry. I spent the first half of my career at a design-build firm, gaining construction experience by being on site almost daily, working with craftsmen to develop creative solutions to challenging problems, coordinating subcontractors and materials, and managing budgets and schedules while collaborating with clients to make all selections and finalize details.
That experience is a core part of what I do today and has given me the ability to create plans contractors can actually use. I’m well-connected in the Charleston area, so I can recommend people who can support your project and will work with you throughout the process.
I’m with You from Beginning to End
When you work with me, you get full architectural services. I don’t just draw floor plans and pretty elevations, then leave you on your own to figure out how to make that design a reality.
Instead, I’m your advocate in all communication with local municipalities, consultants, and the contractors. By staying fully involved, I provide consistent communication and guide you through the entire design and construction process, making the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.
I’ll Help You Navigate the Charleston Board of Architectural Review
I’m passionate about Charleston’s historic homes and have deep knowledge of the unique approach required for design, materials, and construction and restoration methods. The insight from being on site almost daily during major historic restorations positions me to help you strike the right balance between preserving the past and restoring the home for this generation. This understanding of historic homes also serves well in designing new homes with classic details fitting for the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Am I the right architect for you?
Sometimes that answer comes more clearly in understanding…
Let's Build Something
I'm here to serve you fully as you undertake your design project, whether a renovation, addition, new home that meets historic design standards, or historic restoration.
laura@lfa-architecture.com
843.901.8485