Project Give BackPhase One of Project Give Back is nearing completion. The Mountain Community School's main building will be open again for business with the start of school on July 22nd (they use an alternative school calendar). The new library and computer lab will be operational around the 30th of July.The new roof has been installed on the former Barker Heights Community Center and this component of the project is on schedule for completion by the end of September.Click Here and Here to read more about the project. LinksUS Green Building CouncilWNC Green Building CouncilCongress for the New UrbanismNC Sustainable Energy AssociationHand Made in AmericaThe Center for Craft, Creativity, and DesignUrban Land InstituteTP Howards PlumbingLandmark Painting Click here to go to Google Maps. Ken Gaylord ArchitectsBlack Hawk Construction109 S. Main StreetHendersonville, NC 28792828.692.4550 phone828.692.4577 faxinfo@kengaylord.com Tom RhodesAssociate Architect, Ken Gaylord Architects Tom's word portrait:Passionate, adventurous, persevering, ethicalGreatly influenced by Tinker Toys and building pyramids in the sand on the SC beaches, Tom knew early on that he would not follow his dad's footsteps into a career of law. In particular, Tom likes to design buildings. With a Bachelors of Design in Architecture from Clemson University in 2000, Tom's enthusiasm is to tailor "beauty to desire; following form with function." Working within the healthcare community, Tom spent several years designing hospitals and medical office buildings with GMK Associates and The Boudreaux Group.That experience was valuable but it also brought him in touch with "the huge gap in corporate disassociated architecture. I was thinking in terms of wellness and sustainability. After all, these were hospitals. It wasn't considered financially practical to think in these terms".Working with Ken Gaylord Architects has encouraged Tom to think only in these terms. Clemson prepared Tom to work with Ken in the "old world tradition" of hand drawing. Although he is very competent to work with computer programs and 3D models, it is the feel of paper and lines taking shape that brings his design home. Tom lives on 3 acres of land with his brother, Jeter, a filmmaker and documentary producer. Tom has one sister in Nice, France, and another who lives in Hiroshima, Japan. They both teach school. A seasoned backpacker, Tom enjoys the outdoors. He likes to garden, cook, dance around the house to Indi-Rock; Built to Spill, Band of Houses. He is tall, smart, single... Jose Ramirez MoralesLead Carpenter, Black Hawk Construction He is...The last guy to leave just about every project we doJose immigrated to the US in 1997. Unfortunately, it was not until April of 2001 that Jose found his way to Black Hawk. Like Jeff, Jose has become a solid and constant member of our team. He lives in Hendersonville with his wife Angelica, his son Angel, and his two daughters Marisol and Sofia. On his own time, he is most often seen playing soccer (with or without the kids) or studying the latest technology in PC Magazine.Clients have a natural tendency to gravitate towards Jose. He's calm, steady, trustworthy, and as a guy that can work with many different materials, Jose often finds himself finishing the little details at the end of every project. In other words, he's our closer and he's good at what he does. HistoryKen Gaylord Architects was founded in Hendersonville, North Carolina in 1990. In two decades, the firm has grown and flourished and has created a standard of design and building excellence that extends to the client, the environment, and the community. Our work has included custom residences, commercial offices, outdoor theater/gymnasium pavilion, Head Start center, restaurants, fire department, midrise condominium development, and Chancellor's residence on the campus of UNC Asheville. Ken established a construction firm in 1995 to take the ideals of the architecture process and carry them through construction. The first construction professional that Ken hired in 1995, Jeff Rote, is still running projects for Black Hawk Construction. Black Hawk shares a coffee/tea pot with Ken Gaylord Architects, ensuring that the two businesses function as one seamless organization. YouWe're looking for clients that want an exceptional building and an exceptional experience. First and foremost, we're in it for the relationships - cooperative, trusting, enduring relationships. For those who want to co-create with us, we thrive on the pilot/co-pilot relationship. Secondly, we're in it to create outstanding environments that support outstanding lifestyles - creative, beautiful, durable, community oriented, and as sustainable as we can fathom. If you are that kind of a You, we are the ideal company to work with.Client/Project List:Mountain Community School - Hendersonville, NCJohn and Jane Dockendorf - Flat Rock, NCBlue Ridge Capital - Atlanta, GAFritz and Renee McPhail - Atlanta, GASt. Gerard House - Hendersonville, NCCaroline Long - Flat Rock, NCWest First Wood Fired Pizza - Hendersonville, NC310 South Main Condo Development - HVL, NCBlue Star Camps - Hendersonville, NCFrances Holcombe - Lake Summit, NCUniversity of North Carolina Asheville FoundationDelores Kunze, DVM - Campobello, SCDave and Ginny Thompson - Hendersonville, NCThe Landmark Hotel - Hendersonville, NCMichael and Veronika Hart - Hendersonville, NCJohn and Chris Wash - Asheville, NCWestern Carolina Community Action - Hvl, NCHead Start - Hendersonville, NCClayton and Elayne Gay - Landrum, SCMichael and Diane Roemer - Landrum, SCGypsy Cab Restaurant - Hendersonville, SC Dave HeishmanProject Supervisor, Black Hawk ConstructionA word on DaveHe always has a surprise in store...Dave grew up in Clearwater, Florida with a determination to be a contender on his skateboard during his middle and high school years. As a young man fresh out of school, Dave headed west and lived the life many of us dream of - snowboarding the Colorado Rockies. As time moved on, Dave felt the draw to be closer to family and eventually moved back east to Hendersonville (where his mom now resides). The Asheville area provided fertile ground for Dave to learn carpentry. He is capable of building just about anything from wood and Ken enjoys putting him to the test. When he is not crafting a detail, Dave is busy cracking the whip on the crew and subcontractors (and occasionally a misbehaving client) to keep the project on schedule and on budget.Dave lives in Hendersonville with his partner Christine. He has two children Berit, and Vance. Jeff RoteSenior Superintendent, Black Hawk ConstructionKnown as...The rubber-meets-the-road guy (or Professor)Someone has to figure out how to build all of this complicated geometry that Ken puts down on paper. That person is Jeff Rote. The first man hired when Black Hawk started nearly eleven years ago, Jeff showed up for the interview in a leather coat, bola tie, snakeskin boots, and Hells-Angels sunglasses. Ken hired him on the spot. Since that time, Jeff has had a hand in almost everything Black Hawk Construction has built. While it is rumored that after sixteen years Jeff and Ken can communicate telepathically, Jeff is certain of one thing: Ken's supernatural ability to spot construction flaws a mile away. One would be hard pressed to find a more talented construction professional loved by his crew, subcontractors, and clients alike. Whether it's a complex timber frame joint or a concrete wall curving in both the x and y axes, Jeff can tackle it single-handedly or guide his crew to achieve exceptional results. Initially a fly fisherman, Jeff has traded his spinning rod for a set of golf clubs. On the rare occasion where he is teamed up with his co-workers for a benefit golf tournament, he carries the day and spares his colleagues an embarrassing finish. Jeff lives in Connestee Falls with his wife Linda. Chris KaselakGeneral Manager, Black Hawk Construction Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Ohio UniversityAfter 2 1/2 years of cubicle based, corporate engineering work, Chris concluded his existence was, "Sucking the life right out of me." So in one wild summer, he married his bride Leah, quite his job, drove 8,000 miles seeing every bit of our great nation he could jam in, and moved to Asheville on a whim - Leah included.At home, Chris and Leah are joined by little Ivy, who is very excited about her shoes, her dog Snoop, and life in general. Most Fridays, Chris and family like to retire to some local pub or restaurant to scout good beer. Chris is an emerging and diversified brew master (but only his best friends ask for another round).Chris is directly involved in everything Black Hawk does. He provides both operational and project management, financial and schedule control of projects and the business, estimating, marketing, and customer communication. Chris and Ken compliment each other well; Chris often provides just the right amount of temper to Ken's flame. Kathleen HudsonBusiness Manager BS Home Economics Education - SUNY Buffalo MS Early Childhood Education - SUNY Buffalo Four words for KathVivacious, sensual, demanding, funKathleen came to Ken Gaylord Architects and Black Hawk Construction in 1998, during that time rose from bookkeeper to business manager. A better laugh or higher energy level would be hard to come by. With a social and sporting life that would exhaust most Olympians, Kathleen does everything to 110 percent; especially her job. She is known to do the work of four in half the time and compensates by taking vacations twice monthly (no, not really - but it seems that way). Kathleen keeps the organization on the straight and narrow and is very particular about accurate record keeping. If there's a financial document that has crossed her desk in the last several years, Kathleen will find it (often in less than 60 seconds). Her early childhood education has been essential in managing our collection of eccentric professionals. Ken Gaylord, AIA Principal, Ken Gaylord Architects President, Black Hawk Construction Bachelor of Architecture: University of Notre Dame If you walk into the offices of Ken Gaylord Architects, hear lyrics playing full volume and see Ken dancing around his drafting board, you'll know that the inspiration for another unique structure is in full swing. After six years working in architecture, construction, and watercolor painting, Ken moved to Hendersonville, North Carolina in 1990 where he opened an architecture office and painting studio on Main Street. In 1995 he added Black Hawk Construction, fleshing out his aspiration for a full service design-build firm that could build exceptional works of architecture. From the start his work has extended beyond individual building projects to the larger environment and community. After many years of working independently toward an energy efficient and green building approach, Ken became a member of the US Green Building Council and a LEED accredited design professional. He has worked as both a professional and volunteer at the local and regional levels to promote a more sustainable approach to community development. As much as the making of good architecture, Ken enjoys the people with whom he's involved in making it. His organization is one that attracts individuals with a passion to excel both personally and professionally. He leads by example and expects the best of everyone he works with. His vision spans from the smallest architectural detail to the cohesiveness of communities and the joyfulness of children. Ken and his wife, Denise Layfield enjoy raising two boys and a little girl. Ken is convinced that his children are the most beautiful, the most charming and the most talented in the world. Just ask him... UsWe are sincere, creative, good-hearted people who seek out opportunities for doing inspired work with inspired people. We recognize places in our culture that are disconnected or unsustainable, and we respond by creating connections and initiating durable solutions. "Connected" is another word for "Green". The connections we play with most are:Design, construction, art, and the environmentThe built environment and communityWork, satisfaction, and celebrationCommunication, compassion, and clarityEnergy expended versus energy gainedMeans, expectations, and accountabilityFood and shelter - sustainable building and sustainable agricultureAfter many years we realize that, while we look like we're building buildings, we are actually in the business of building relationships, community, and sustainable selves. We design and build excellent buildings because we like the people we become and the relationships we build in the process. Making architecture is a great priviledge and we are honored by those who give us the opportunity to do it. OfferingsWe provide free-standing architectural services and free-standing construction services, but we're at our best when we do both. The single source delivery of Ken Gaylord Architects and Black Hawk Construction provides the highest level of communication and design execution in the industry. It also provides for single source accountability.We do a wide variety of project types from custom residential to commercial or educational. What our projects have in common is a commitment to excellence in design, construction craftsmanship, environmental sensitivity, and effective communication.Our services include:Site selection/evaluationExisting building analysisProject programmingSchematic and design developmentPresentation renderingsBuilding code analysisConstruction documentationEnergy modeling and analysisLEED certificationRenewable energy - passive and activeBidding and negotiationsConstruction administrationGeneral contractingCraft artist integrationDevelopment oversight and financeGarden design and implemenation StewardshipBuildings or products cannot be green - only people can.In that pursuit our clients, cohorts, and we explore how to live and work more sustainably at the same time that we create structures that consume less energy, generate renewable energy, and produce less waste. Building in town or beside a garden is beneficial. Building beautiful and durable is essential. Most important is to design, build, and dwell with satisfaction and delight in simple pleasures and things well made. After all, nothing more than a smile or kind word makes the world a better place.Our specific approaches to stewardship include:Highly efficient building envelopesAlternative and/or recycled building materials Local and regional sourcing of materialsNon-toxic construction Emphasis on indoor air qualitySolar (both passive and active systems)Geothermal High efficiency HVAC Water conserving fixturesNatural daylightingLEED, Energy Star, and Healthy Built Homes Certification"Food and Shelter" Architect-BuildArchitect-build is an approach to the built environment where the disciplines of design and construction are unified into one seamless process - elevating both. The architect joins with or becomes the builder to provide a coordinated leadership role whereby the aesthetics, economics, and energy of the built environment are commonly bound to the highest purpose. The process eliminates the wasteful friction that often arises between designers and builders; makes refinements easy; produces superior buildings; and provides feedback loops that keep design, budget, and technology continuously informed of each other.
Project Give BackPhase One of Project Give Back is nearing completion. The Mountain Community School's main building will be open again for business with the start of school on July 22nd (they use an alternative school calendar). The new library and computer lab will be operational around the 30th of July.The new roof has been installed on the former Barker Heights Community Center and this component of the project is on schedule for completion by the end of September.Click Here and Here to read more about the project.
Project Give Back
Phase One of Project Give Back is nearing completion. The Mountain Community School's main building will be open again for business with the start of school on July 22nd (they use an alternative school calendar). The new library and computer lab will be operational around the 30th of July.
The new roof has been installed on the former Barker Heights Community Center and this component of the project is on schedule for completion by the end of September.
Click Here and Here to read more about the project.
LinksUS Green Building CouncilWNC Green Building CouncilCongress for the New UrbanismNC Sustainable Energy AssociationHand Made in AmericaThe Center for Craft, Creativity, and DesignUrban Land InstituteTP Howards PlumbingLandmark Painting
Links
US Green Building Council
WNC Green Building Council
Congress for the New Urbanism
NC Sustainable Energy Association
Hand Made in America
The Center for Craft, Creativity, and Design
Urban Land Institute
TP Howards Plumbing
Landmark Painting
Click here to go to Google Maps.
Ken Gaylord ArchitectsBlack Hawk Construction109 S. Main StreetHendersonville, NC 28792828.692.4550 phone828.692.4577 faxinfo@kengaylord.com
Ken Gaylord Architects
Black Hawk Construction
109 S. Main Street
Hendersonville, NC 28792
828.692.4550 phone
828.692.4577 fax
info@kengaylord.com
Tom RhodesAssociate Architect, Ken Gaylord Architects Tom's word portrait:Passionate, adventurous, persevering, ethicalGreatly influenced by Tinker Toys and building pyramids in the sand on the SC beaches, Tom knew early on that he would not follow his dad's footsteps into a career of law. In particular, Tom likes to design buildings. With a Bachelors of Design in Architecture from Clemson University in 2000, Tom's enthusiasm is to tailor "beauty to desire; following form with function." Working within the healthcare community, Tom spent several years designing hospitals and medical office buildings with GMK Associates and The Boudreaux Group.That experience was valuable but it also brought him in touch with "the huge gap in corporate disassociated architecture. I was thinking in terms of wellness and sustainability. After all, these were hospitals. It wasn't considered financially practical to think in these terms".Working with Ken Gaylord Architects has encouraged Tom to think only in these terms. Clemson prepared Tom to work with Ken in the "old world tradition" of hand drawing. Although he is very competent to work with computer programs and 3D models, it is the feel of paper and lines taking shape that brings his design home. Tom lives on 3 acres of land with his brother, Jeter, a filmmaker and documentary producer. Tom has one sister in Nice, France, and another who lives in Hiroshima, Japan. They both teach school. A seasoned backpacker, Tom enjoys the outdoors. He likes to garden, cook, dance around the house to Indi-Rock; Built to Spill, Band of Houses. He is tall, smart, single...
Tom Rhodes
Associate Architect, Ken Gaylord Architects
Tom's word portrait:
Passionate, adventurous, persevering, ethical
Greatly influenced by Tinker Toys and building pyramids in the sand on the SC beaches, Tom knew early on that he would not follow his dad's footsteps into a career of law. In particular, Tom likes to design buildings.
With a Bachelors of Design in Architecture from Clemson University in 2000, Tom's enthusiasm is to tailor "beauty to desire; following form with function." Working within the healthcare community, Tom spent several years designing hospitals and medical office buildings with GMK Associates and The Boudreaux Group.
That experience was valuable but it also brought him in touch with "the huge gap in corporate disassociated architecture. I was thinking in terms of wellness and sustainability. After all, these were hospitals. It wasn't considered financially practical to think in these terms".
Working with Ken Gaylord Architects has encouraged Tom to think only in these terms.
Clemson prepared Tom to work with Ken in the "old world tradition" of hand drawing. Although he is very competent to work with computer programs and 3D models, it is the feel of paper and lines taking shape that brings his design home.
Tom lives on 3 acres of land with his brother, Jeter, a filmmaker and documentary producer. Tom has one sister in Nice, France, and another who lives in Hiroshima, Japan. They both teach school.
A seasoned backpacker, Tom enjoys the outdoors. He likes to garden, cook, dance around the house to Indi-Rock; Built to Spill, Band of Houses.
He is tall, smart, single...
Jose Ramirez MoralesLead Carpenter, Black Hawk Construction He is...The last guy to leave just about every project we doJose immigrated to the US in 1997. Unfortunately, it was not until April of 2001 that Jose found his way to Black Hawk. Like Jeff, Jose has become a solid and constant member of our team. He lives in Hendersonville with his wife Angelica, his son Angel, and his two daughters Marisol and Sofia. On his own time, he is most often seen playing soccer (with or without the kids) or studying the latest technology in PC Magazine.Clients have a natural tendency to gravitate towards Jose. He's calm, steady, trustworthy, and as a guy that can work with many different materials, Jose often finds himself finishing the little details at the end of every project. In other words, he's our closer and he's good at what he does.
Jose Ramirez Morales
Lead Carpenter, Black Hawk Construction
He is...
The last guy to leave just about every project we do
Jose immigrated to the US in 1997. Unfortunately, it was not until April of 2001 that Jose found his way to Black Hawk. Like Jeff, Jose has become a solid and constant member of our team. He lives in Hendersonville with his wife Angelica, his son Angel, and his two daughters Marisol and Sofia. On his own time, he is most often seen playing soccer (with or without the kids) or studying the latest technology in PC Magazine.
Clients have a natural tendency to gravitate towards Jose. He's calm, steady, trustworthy, and as a guy that can work with many different materials, Jose often finds himself finishing the little details at the end of every project. In other words, he's our closer and he's good at what he does.
HistoryKen Gaylord Architects was founded in Hendersonville, North Carolina in 1990. In two decades, the firm has grown and flourished and has created a standard of design and building excellence that extends to the client, the environment, and the community. Our work has included custom residences, commercial offices, outdoor theater/gymnasium pavilion, Head Start center, restaurants, fire department, midrise condominium development, and Chancellor's residence on the campus of UNC Asheville. Ken established a construction firm in 1995 to take the ideals of the architecture process and carry them through construction. The first construction professional that Ken hired in 1995, Jeff Rote, is still running projects for Black Hawk Construction. Black Hawk shares a coffee/tea pot with Ken Gaylord Architects, ensuring that the two businesses function as one seamless organization.
History
Ken Gaylord Architects was founded in Hendersonville, North Carolina in 1990. In two decades, the firm has grown and flourished and has created a standard of design and building excellence that extends to the client, the environment, and the community.
Our work has included custom residences, commercial offices, outdoor theater/gymnasium pavilion, Head Start center, restaurants, fire department, midrise condominium development, and Chancellor's residence on the campus of UNC Asheville.
Ken established a construction firm in 1995 to take the ideals of the architecture process and carry them through construction. The first construction professional that Ken hired in 1995, Jeff Rote, is still running projects for Black Hawk Construction. Black Hawk shares a coffee/tea pot with Ken Gaylord Architects, ensuring that the two businesses function as one seamless organization.
YouWe're looking for clients that want an exceptional building and an exceptional experience. First and foremost, we're in it for the relationships - cooperative, trusting, enduring relationships. For those who want to co-create with us, we thrive on the pilot/co-pilot relationship. Secondly, we're in it to create outstanding environments that support outstanding lifestyles - creative, beautiful, durable, community oriented, and as sustainable as we can fathom. If you are that kind of a You, we are the ideal company to work with.Client/Project List:Mountain Community School - Hendersonville, NCJohn and Jane Dockendorf - Flat Rock, NCBlue Ridge Capital - Atlanta, GAFritz and Renee McPhail - Atlanta, GASt. Gerard House - Hendersonville, NCCaroline Long - Flat Rock, NCWest First Wood Fired Pizza - Hendersonville, NC310 South Main Condo Development - HVL, NCBlue Star Camps - Hendersonville, NCFrances Holcombe - Lake Summit, NCUniversity of North Carolina Asheville FoundationDelores Kunze, DVM - Campobello, SCDave and Ginny Thompson - Hendersonville, NCThe Landmark Hotel - Hendersonville, NCMichael and Veronika Hart - Hendersonville, NCJohn and Chris Wash - Asheville, NCWestern Carolina Community Action - Hvl, NCHead Start - Hendersonville, NCClayton and Elayne Gay - Landrum, SCMichael and Diane Roemer - Landrum, SCGypsy Cab Restaurant - Hendersonville, SC
You
We're looking for clients that want an exceptional building and an exceptional experience. First and foremost, we're in it for the relationships - cooperative, trusting, enduring relationships. For those who want to co-create with us, we thrive on the pilot/co-pilot relationship. Secondly, we're in it to create outstanding environments that support outstanding lifestyles - creative, beautiful, durable, community oriented, and as sustainable as we can fathom. If you are that kind of a You, we are the ideal company to work with.
Client/Project List:
Mountain Community School - Hendersonville, NC
John and Jane Dockendorf - Flat Rock, NC
Blue Ridge Capital - Atlanta, GA
Fritz and Renee McPhail - Atlanta, GA
St. Gerard House - Hendersonville, NC
Caroline Long - Flat Rock, NC
West First Wood Fired Pizza - Hendersonville, NC
310 South Main Condo Development - HVL, NC
Blue Star Camps - Hendersonville, NC
Frances Holcombe - Lake Summit, NC
University of North Carolina Asheville Foundation
Delores Kunze, DVM - Campobello, SC
Dave and Ginny Thompson - Hendersonville, NC
The Landmark Hotel - Hendersonville, NC
Michael and Veronika Hart - Hendersonville, NC
John and Chris Wash - Asheville, NC
Western Carolina Community Action - Hvl, NC
Head Start - Hendersonville, NC
Clayton and Elayne Gay - Landrum, SC
Michael and Diane Roemer - Landrum, SC
Gypsy Cab Restaurant - Hendersonville, SC
Dave HeishmanProject Supervisor, Black Hawk ConstructionA word on DaveHe always has a surprise in store...Dave grew up in Clearwater, Florida with a determination to be a contender on his skateboard during his middle and high school years. As a young man fresh out of school, Dave headed west and lived the life many of us dream of - snowboarding the Colorado Rockies. As time moved on, Dave felt the draw to be closer to family and eventually moved back east to Hendersonville (where his mom now resides). The Asheville area provided fertile ground for Dave to learn carpentry. He is capable of building just about anything from wood and Ken enjoys putting him to the test. When he is not crafting a detail, Dave is busy cracking the whip on the crew and subcontractors (and occasionally a misbehaving client) to keep the project on schedule and on budget.Dave lives in Hendersonville with his partner Christine. He has two children Berit, and Vance.
Dave Heishman
Project Supervisor, Black Hawk Construction
A word on Dave
He always has a surprise in store...
Dave grew up in Clearwater, Florida with a determination to be a contender on his skateboard during his middle and high school years. As a young man fresh out of school, Dave headed west and lived the life many of us dream of - snowboarding the Colorado Rockies. As time moved on, Dave felt the draw to be closer to family and eventually moved back east to Hendersonville (where his mom now resides).
The Asheville area provided fertile ground for Dave to learn carpentry. He is capable of building just about anything from wood and Ken enjoys putting him to the test. When he is not crafting a detail, Dave is busy cracking the whip on the crew and subcontractors (and occasionally a misbehaving client) to keep the project on schedule and on budget.
Dave lives in Hendersonville with his partner Christine. He has two children Berit, and Vance.
Jeff RoteSenior Superintendent, Black Hawk ConstructionKnown as...The rubber-meets-the-road guy (or Professor)Someone has to figure out how to build all of this complicated geometry that Ken puts down on paper. That person is Jeff Rote. The first man hired when Black Hawk started nearly eleven years ago, Jeff showed up for the interview in a leather coat, bola tie, snakeskin boots, and Hells-Angels sunglasses. Ken hired him on the spot. Since that time, Jeff has had a hand in almost everything Black Hawk Construction has built. While it is rumored that after sixteen years Jeff and Ken can communicate telepathically, Jeff is certain of one thing: Ken's supernatural ability to spot construction flaws a mile away. One would be hard pressed to find a more talented construction professional loved by his crew, subcontractors, and clients alike. Whether it's a complex timber frame joint or a concrete wall curving in both the x and y axes, Jeff can tackle it single-handedly or guide his crew to achieve exceptional results. Initially a fly fisherman, Jeff has traded his spinning rod for a set of golf clubs. On the rare occasion where he is teamed up with his co-workers for a benefit golf tournament, he carries the day and spares his colleagues an embarrassing finish. Jeff lives in Connestee Falls with his wife Linda.
Jeff Rote
Senior Superintendent, Black Hawk Construction
Known as...
The rubber-meets-the-road guy (or Professor)
Someone has to figure out how to build all of this complicated geometry that Ken puts down on paper. That person is Jeff Rote. The first man hired when Black Hawk started nearly eleven years ago, Jeff showed up for the interview in a leather coat, bola tie, snakeskin boots, and Hells-Angels sunglasses. Ken hired him on the spot. Since that time, Jeff has had a hand in almost everything Black Hawk Construction has built. While it is rumored that after sixteen years Jeff and Ken can communicate telepathically, Jeff is certain of one thing: Ken's supernatural ability to spot construction flaws a mile away.
One would be hard pressed to find a more talented construction professional loved by his crew, subcontractors, and clients alike. Whether it's a complex timber frame joint or a concrete wall curving in both the x and y axes, Jeff can tackle it single-handedly or guide his crew to achieve exceptional results.
Initially a fly fisherman, Jeff has traded his spinning rod for a set of golf clubs. On the rare occasion where he is teamed up with his co-workers for a benefit golf tournament, he carries the day and spares his colleagues an embarrassing finish. Jeff lives in Connestee Falls with his wife Linda.
Chris KaselakGeneral Manager, Black Hawk Construction Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Ohio UniversityAfter 2 1/2 years of cubicle based, corporate engineering work, Chris concluded his existence was, "Sucking the life right out of me." So in one wild summer, he married his bride Leah, quite his job, drove 8,000 miles seeing every bit of our great nation he could jam in, and moved to Asheville on a whim - Leah included.At home, Chris and Leah are joined by little Ivy, who is very excited about her shoes, her dog Snoop, and life in general. Most Fridays, Chris and family like to retire to some local pub or restaurant to scout good beer. Chris is an emerging and diversified brew master (but only his best friends ask for another round).Chris is directly involved in everything Black Hawk does. He provides both operational and project management, financial and schedule control of projects and the business, estimating, marketing, and customer communication. Chris and Ken compliment each other well; Chris often provides just the right amount of temper to Ken's flame.
Chris Kaselak
General Manager, Black Hawk Construction
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Ohio University
After 2 1/2 years of cubicle based, corporate engineering work, Chris concluded his existence was, "Sucking the life right out of me." So in one wild summer, he married his bride Leah, quite his job, drove 8,000 miles seeing every bit of our great nation he could jam in, and moved to Asheville on a whim - Leah included.
At home, Chris and Leah are joined by little Ivy, who is very excited about her shoes, her dog Snoop, and life in general. Most Fridays, Chris and family like to retire to some local pub or restaurant to scout good beer. Chris is an emerging and diversified brew master (but only his best friends ask for another round).
Chris is directly involved in everything Black Hawk does. He provides both operational and project management, financial and schedule control of projects and the business, estimating, marketing, and customer communication. Chris and Ken compliment each other well; Chris often provides just the right amount of temper to Ken's flame.
Kathleen HudsonBusiness Manager BS Home Economics Education - SUNY Buffalo MS Early Childhood Education - SUNY Buffalo Four words for KathVivacious, sensual, demanding, funKathleen came to Ken Gaylord Architects and Black Hawk Construction in 1998, during that time rose from bookkeeper to business manager. A better laugh or higher energy level would be hard to come by. With a social and sporting life that would exhaust most Olympians, Kathleen does everything to 110 percent; especially her job. She is known to do the work of four in half the time and compensates by taking vacations twice monthly (no, not really - but it seems that way). Kathleen keeps the organization on the straight and narrow and is very particular about accurate record keeping. If there's a financial document that has crossed her desk in the last several years, Kathleen will find it (often in less than 60 seconds). Her early childhood education has been essential in managing our collection of eccentric professionals.
Kathleen Hudson
Business Manager
BS Home Economics Education - SUNY Buffalo
MS Early Childhood Education - SUNY Buffalo
Four words for Kath
Vivacious, sensual, demanding, fun
Kathleen came to Ken Gaylord Architects and Black Hawk Construction in 1998, during that time rose from bookkeeper to business manager. A better laugh or higher energy level would be hard to come by. With a social and sporting life that would exhaust most Olympians, Kathleen does everything to 110 percent; especially her job. She is known to do the work of four in half the time and compensates by taking vacations twice monthly (no, not really - but it seems that way).
Kathleen keeps the organization on the straight and narrow and is very particular about accurate record keeping. If there's a financial document that has crossed her desk in the last several years, Kathleen will find it (often in less than 60 seconds). Her early childhood education has been essential in managing our collection of eccentric professionals.
Ken Gaylord, AIA Principal, Ken Gaylord Architects President, Black Hawk Construction Bachelor of Architecture: University of Notre Dame If you walk into the offices of Ken Gaylord Architects, hear lyrics playing full volume and see Ken dancing around his drafting board, you'll know that the inspiration for another unique structure is in full swing. After six years working in architecture, construction, and watercolor painting, Ken moved to Hendersonville, North Carolina in 1990 where he opened an architecture office and painting studio on Main Street. In 1995 he added Black Hawk Construction, fleshing out his aspiration for a full service design-build firm that could build exceptional works of architecture. From the start his work has extended beyond individual building projects to the larger environment and community. After many years of working independently toward an energy efficient and green building approach, Ken became a member of the US Green Building Council and a LEED accredited design professional. He has worked as both a professional and volunteer at the local and regional levels to promote a more sustainable approach to community development. As much as the making of good architecture, Ken enjoys the people with whom he's involved in making it. His organization is one that attracts individuals with a passion to excel both personally and professionally. He leads by example and expects the best of everyone he works with. His vision spans from the smallest architectural detail to the cohesiveness of communities and the joyfulness of children. Ken and his wife, Denise Layfield enjoy raising two boys and a little girl. Ken is convinced that his children are the most beautiful, the most charming and the most talented in the world. Just ask him...
Ken Gaylord, AIA
Principal, Ken Gaylord Architects
President, Black Hawk Construction
Bachelor of Architecture: University of Notre Dame
If you walk into the offices of Ken Gaylord Architects, hear lyrics playing full volume and see Ken dancing around his drafting board, you'll know that the inspiration for another unique structure is in full swing. After six years working in architecture, construction, and watercolor painting, Ken moved to Hendersonville, North Carolina in 1990 where he opened an architecture office and painting studio on Main Street. In 1995 he added Black Hawk Construction, fleshing out his aspiration for a full service design-build firm that could build exceptional works of architecture. From the start his work has extended beyond individual building projects to the larger environment and community. After many years of working independently toward an energy efficient and green building approach, Ken became a member of the US Green Building Council and a LEED accredited design professional. He has worked as both a professional and volunteer at the local and regional levels to promote a more sustainable approach to community development.
As much as the making of good architecture, Ken enjoys the people with whom he's involved in making it. His organization is one that attracts individuals with a passion to excel both personally and professionally. He leads by example and expects the best of everyone he works with. His vision spans from the smallest architectural detail to the cohesiveness of communities and the joyfulness of children.
Ken and his wife, Denise Layfield enjoy raising two boys and a little girl. Ken is convinced that his children are the most beautiful, the most charming and the most talented in the world. Just ask him...
UsWe are sincere, creative, good-hearted people who seek out opportunities for doing inspired work with inspired people. We recognize places in our culture that are disconnected or unsustainable, and we respond by creating connections and initiating durable solutions. "Connected" is another word for "Green". The connections we play with most are:Design, construction, art, and the environmentThe built environment and communityWork, satisfaction, and celebrationCommunication, compassion, and clarityEnergy expended versus energy gainedMeans, expectations, and accountabilityFood and shelter - sustainable building and sustainable agricultureAfter many years we realize that, while we look like we're building buildings, we are actually in the business of building relationships, community, and sustainable selves. We design and build excellent buildings because we like the people we become and the relationships we build in the process. Making architecture is a great priviledge and we are honored by those who give us the opportunity to do it.
Us
We are sincere, creative, good-hearted people who seek out opportunities for doing inspired work with inspired people. We recognize places in our culture that are disconnected or unsustainable, and we respond by creating connections and initiating durable solutions. "Connected" is another word for "Green". The connections we play with most are:
After many years we realize that, while we look like we're building buildings, we are actually in the business of building relationships, community, and sustainable selves. We design and build excellent buildings because we like the people we become and the relationships we build in the process. Making architecture is a great priviledge and we are honored by those who give us the opportunity to do it.
OfferingsWe provide free-standing architectural services and free-standing construction services, but we're at our best when we do both. The single source delivery of Ken Gaylord Architects and Black Hawk Construction provides the highest level of communication and design execution in the industry. It also provides for single source accountability.We do a wide variety of project types from custom residential to commercial or educational. What our projects have in common is a commitment to excellence in design, construction craftsmanship, environmental sensitivity, and effective communication.Our services include:Site selection/evaluationExisting building analysisProject programmingSchematic and design developmentPresentation renderingsBuilding code analysisConstruction documentationEnergy modeling and analysisLEED certificationRenewable energy - passive and activeBidding and negotiationsConstruction administrationGeneral contractingCraft artist integrationDevelopment oversight and financeGarden design and implemenation
Offerings
We provide free-standing architectural services and free-standing construction services, but we're at our best when we do both. The single source delivery of Ken Gaylord Architects and Black Hawk Construction provides the highest level of communication and design execution in the industry. It also provides for single source accountability.
We do a wide variety of project types from custom residential to commercial or educational. What our projects have in common is a commitment to excellence in design, construction craftsmanship, environmental sensitivity, and effective communication.
Our services include:
StewardshipBuildings or products cannot be green - only people can.In that pursuit our clients, cohorts, and we explore how to live and work more sustainably at the same time that we create structures that consume less energy, generate renewable energy, and produce less waste. Building in town or beside a garden is beneficial. Building beautiful and durable is essential. Most important is to design, build, and dwell with satisfaction and delight in simple pleasures and things well made. After all, nothing more than a smile or kind word makes the world a better place.Our specific approaches to stewardship include:Highly efficient building envelopesAlternative and/or recycled building materials Local and regional sourcing of materialsNon-toxic construction Emphasis on indoor air qualitySolar (both passive and active systems)Geothermal High efficiency HVAC Water conserving fixturesNatural daylightingLEED, Energy Star, and Healthy Built Homes Certification"Food and Shelter"
Stewardship
Buildings or products cannot be green - only people can.
In that pursuit our clients, cohorts, and we explore how to live and work more sustainably at the same time that we create structures that consume less energy, generate renewable energy, and produce less waste. Building in town or beside a garden is beneficial. Building beautiful and durable is essential. Most important is to design, build, and dwell with satisfaction and delight in simple pleasures and things well made. After all, nothing more than a smile or kind word makes the world a better place.
Our specific approaches to stewardship include:
Architect-BuildArchitect-build is an approach to the built environment where the disciplines of design and construction are unified into one seamless process - elevating both. The architect joins with or becomes the builder to provide a coordinated leadership role whereby the aesthetics, economics, and energy of the built environment are commonly bound to the highest purpose. The process eliminates the wasteful friction that often arises between designers and builders; makes refinements easy; produces superior buildings; and provides feedback loops that keep design, budget, and technology continuously informed of each other.
Architect-Build
Architect-build is an approach to the built environment where the disciplines of design and construction are unified into one seamless process - elevating both. The architect joins with or becomes the builder to provide a coordinated leadership role whereby the aesthetics, economics, and energy of the built environment are commonly bound to the highest purpose.
The process eliminates the wasteful friction that often arises between designers and builders; makes refinements easy; produces superior buildings; and provides feedback loops that keep design, budget, and technology continuously informed of each other.
