Modern amenities meet historic charm.

I’m Melissa–Architect and founder of Build Sage Design. I love travel, walkable cities, and beautiful spaces. My dream is to refresh vintage homes for today’s modern families and revitalize our historic neighborhoods instead of adding to suburban sprawl.

I’ve lived in small Southern towns and big coastal cities and have always been drawn to neighborhoods with sidewalks and character that were valued for their closeness to downtown. The vibrancy and patina that comes with age is hard to replicate in a new development.

I have worked in high-end residential architecture and interior architecture firms since 2008 and have garnered the design eye and technical expertise to craft beautiful and functional renovations as well as guide clients through the intimidating construction process. Through my own personal projects, I know first-hand how to sensitively navigate wish lists and budgets with an eye on comfort and return on investment.

You’re in the right place if you value character-filled homes, living close to downtown amenities, but worry an older house won’t fit your modern lifestyle. Together we can make that vintage charmer suit your family for years to come!

Resumé

Bachelor of Architecture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, 2008

Interior Architect, Platt Dana Architects, New York City, 2008-2016

Licensed Architect, est. 2013

Interior Architect, Emerick Architects, Portland, Oregon, 2017-2021

Project Architect, JCC Design Studio, Chattanooga, Tennessee, 2021-2024

Principal Architect, Build Sage Design, Chattanooga, Tennessee, 2023-Present