Who We Are
Originally established in 1969 by Chet Helt, the firm has grown from its Charlotte roots to become a leading national architecture and design presence. In 2012 Tim Johnston took the reins of the firm with like minded goals of customer service, design excellence and project diversification.
CL Helt’s core capabilities encompass modern commercial, industrial, prototype maintenance/ rollout, hospitality and modern minimalist residential design. Our clients represent a wide variety of industries, locations, and projects – of every scope and scale. Our work is our passion, founded on expert design, creative solutions, and versatile expertise. We have the diverse ability and talent to offer not only exceptional architecture but also interior design, programming, master planning, space planning, feasibility studies, and code compliance.
Currently licensed in 46 states, we offer a powerful knowledge base of code requirements state to state – a significant consideration for developers, retailers, and franchisers designing in new locations.
Licensed in 46 States •• Full Service Architecture and Interior Design •• Commercial Architecture •• Residential Architecture •• Retail Prototype Roll-Out
Our Approach
First, we listen. We continuously evaluate and refine our processes to ensure the best possible design experience. Listening gives us keen insight into meeting critical objectives and bringing ideas to life. We always put our clients first, continuously evaluating and refining our processes to ensure the best possible design experience.
Whether we’re designing a home, new retail concepts, or re-purposing an outdated existing structure, we focus on creative concepts and processes that solve problems, impeccable project execution and expert compliance to ensure optimal results for every client and project.
Our National Capabilities
With licensure in 46 states, our national reach enables consistent service and expertise across the U.S. – an essential benefit for developers, retailers, franchisors and companies with multi-state presence.
In each state we provide:
- Code Requirement Expertise
- Project Management
- Prototype Plan Development & Execution
- Field Verification Services, If required
- Permit Research & Tracking
- Zoning Design Criteria Research
- Construction Administration
- Sustainable Design
- 3D Design Modeling
Our Team is Your Team
Our talented team is dedicated to providing top-notch client service. We give our utmost attention to big ideas and precise details alike. At C.L. Helt, Architects transforming your vision into a tangible, usable space that achieves your unique goals is paramount.
Click images below to view bios
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Tim JohnstonAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Principal -
Diana MyersSenior Associate
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Sharon JohnstonAdministrative Support / Market Research -
James ZinkSenior Project Manager
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Don FerrySenior Project Manager
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Ben WoodsProject Manager -
Selvyn GrandisonProject Manager
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John Lee
“CL Helt’s contribution to this project has been incredible, your fees have been fair… You have exceeded our expectations.”
“Tim and his team helped us navigate the complex process of design choices…Looking forward to future projects with Tim.”
“We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a professional partner who will maintain a client focused perspective.”
“Tim Johnston and (the team of CLH) have been a pleasure to deal with… We would and already have recommended Tim to other builders in the area.”
“I recently engaged (CL Helt) for design work… I have no hesitation to recommend (CL Helt) for a home or business building /renovation project.”
“We knew what we wanted in a custom home and CL Helt Architecture was able to create a design that incorporated our needs on balance with our budget…”
“We would not hesitate to use their services again in the future and plan to recommend them to friends and family.”
Tim Johnston lives and breathes design. If he is not actively designing at his desk or on weekends, he is imagining new ideas for development or design. Architecture has been his passion for 25 years during which time he has worked at multiple firms around the country before realizing his long-held dream of firm ownership when he joined CL Helt as President and Principal in 2012.
Sharon believes that change fosters growth and she is always looking for opportunities to enhance and improve all that we do. Originally from South Africa she generally brings a different perspective to problem solving and solutions that are outside the box (which Architects’ happen to like!). In addition to providing general support for administrative and billing functions she is also responsible for market research, marketing and process improvement initiatives. Sharon has a degree in Communication Science and has over 20 years’ experience in continuous improvement initiatives and organizational change in various industries as well as her own businesses.
Don Ferry is a graduate of 
Every day Ben Woods witnesses how architecture and design has an impact on his life. Even though most do not perceive it or are unaware, it does occur. After all buildings and spaces are made for people to inhabit, so why not provide an efficient building or space based on the audience in which intends to utilize it. Ben Woods embraces every opportunity to provide solutions that transcend expectations and client’s goals on projects. Becoming involved in the intricate process of design, construction, and collaboration with owners, builders, and other designers is of the utmost satisfaction in my opinion, says Ben. Proper understanding and execution of the end goal is my primary focus and reassurance I’m providing a quality product from start to finish on any project.
Selvyn Grandison believes Architecture is an intricate set of designs which lies at the intersection of art and science that tries to unify its surroundings. Selvyn is most excited when he is able to collaborate with others to bring a design to fruition and to know he has pleased the client. Selvyn is committed to doing what it takes (creating, exploring, listening, asking etc.) to get the project completed in a timely manner.
John Lee is passionate about helping to craft the client’s dream vision of architecture that inspires. With years of 3D design and construction drawing experience John enjoys finding unique and collaborative ways to solve design problems to the client’s complete satisfaction.