DesignWorks has been designing and building one-of-a-kind homes for more than four decades, primarily in Virginia’s beautiful New River Valley. Bringing our backgrounds in design to the drawing table, paired with our commitment to sustainability and efficiency, we build spaces that are functional, beautiful, and ecologically responsive.
From working with clients to establish a custom, aesthetically pleasing design, to fine-tuning the design direction throughout the construction process, we design and build our clients’ dream spaces.

Designer + Master Builder
Chris’s fascination with building began early, inspired by his dad’s architecture career and a high school summer carpentry job. Realizing a love for building things of value and permanence, Chris kept hammering, getting his art fix through carpentry.
As more and more friends came to him for design and construction guidance, Chris decided the time was nigh for formal design training. Now, with an architecture degree from Virginia Tech and over four decades of design and building experience, Chris enjoys the challenges, rewards, and utter lack of boredom inherent in client-focused design work.
From custom-built homes and home additions, to offices, schools, and event facilities, Chris loves the thrill of finding good solutions for complex situations. Chris is an avid performing bassist and badminton player, and lives with Shannon in Floyd, Virginia.
Designer
Shannon’s longtime love for beautiful design ultimately led her to studying Interior Architecture and garnered work experience at the prestigious Corgan Associates in Dallas, Texas before moving east to Virginia to earn her Masters in Architecture.
In a nod to her Deep South roots, Shannon focused on the architectural history of southern plantation homes, falling in love with their built-to-last design and their graceful, timeless sensitivity to the climate and the availability of materials.
With a keen eye for design that is simple yet practical, Shannon plays a key role in brainstorming the conceptual design of each project and developing it to completion. In her free time, Shannon tries to fit in as much swimming, yoga, and painting as possible, though not at the same time.
Lead Carpenter
My father was a builder, and I have been on the jobsite since I can remember. I am an experienced carpenter with 24 years in the trade, specializing in everything from structural framing to fine finish work. I’m known for precision, reliability, and a deep understanding of both traditional and modern building techniques. In my free time I enjoy fine woodworking and building custom furniture, as well as spending time outdoors with my family. With DesignWorks since 2022.
Lead Carpenter
The son of a cabinet and furniture maker, I picked up my first hammer when I was 6 years old and haven’t put it down since. My 25 yers experience working with DesignWorks Construction has allowed me to work with some of the best tradesmen in the industry. I have gained extensive knowledge of all aspects of construction and love seeing the finished product. DesignWorks has allowed me to pursue my passion for design and precision quality work. I look forward to making your dream a reality.
Lead Carpenter
Before joining the DesignWorks team in 2012, I worked in a number of trades including HVAC, block and brick masonry, metalworking and blacksmithing, and of course carpentry. I enjoy working with the team on all the exciting projects we create.