Logo for Rankin Designworks Architecture featuring a large white letter "R" in a tan square, with the company name in uppercase letters below.

our firm

Founded by Charlie Rankin in 2013, Rankin Designworks is a small, client-focused architecture firm dedicated to designing elegant, timeless homes. While not stuck in the past, we find endless inspiration in the beauty and craftsmanship of historic homes and enjoy the challenge of adapting these precedents to fit our clients’ modern lifestyles. Whether you have a clear vision of your future home, or feel unsure of where to begin, we’re here to guide you through the complex and often overwhelming process. We can help you clarify your vision, anticipate issues, and advocate for you during construction.

Design Philosophy

We believe a well-designed home has the power to enrich daily life and create lasting memories. It’s where you raise a family, celebrate milestones, and gather with loved ones. As one of life’s most significant investments, your home should be both a reflection of your dreams and a place of comfort and inspiration.

At Rankin Designworks, we take great pride in collaborating with our clients to bring their ideal vision of home to life. Every client has a unique perspective, and every property presents its own opportunities and challenges. Our role is to guide you through the process with our expertise, ensuring your home is thoughtfully designed to reflect your vision and enhance the way you live.

Our Team

Rankin Designworks is an intentionally small architecture firm so that we can devote personalized attention to each of our projects.

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Charlie Rankin

Founding Pricipal

Charlie, a native Tennessean, was raised on Signal Mountain, just outside of Chattanooga. With parents in the real estate business, a grandfather who was a noted custom home builder, and a grandmother who was an antiques dealer, he grew up in a family where an appreciation for great design and craftsmanship were impressed on him at a young age.

After having the opportunity to work on the restoration of a 19th century Queen Anne style home in Chattanooga, Charlie decided to pursue his developing interest in historic homes and enrolled in architecture school at the University of Tennessee.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture degree, he moved to Nashville to begin a career that has focused exclusively on custom residential projects for the past two decades. His expertise lies in designing historically inspired homes that blend timeless aesthetics with modern functionality.

As founding principal, Charlie personally oversees each project. His designs are recognized for their thoughtful use of space, meticulous attention to detail, and seamless integration with their surroundings. Outside of professional work, Charlie is actively involved in his community, currently serving on the City of Belle Meade’s Historic Zoning Commission. When not working, Charlie enjoys spending time with his wife, Kathryn, and their two children, as well as escaping outdoors for a hike, jog, or bike ride.

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Brad Van Rassel

Architect

Born and raised in South Florida, Brad studied architecture at Clemson University. He moved to Nashville after graduating and has focused his career on custom residential projects. Brad’s unique mix of creativity, construction knowledge, and organizational skills has made him an invaluable member of the team at Rankin Designworks. A licensed architect, Brad assists in the design process and manages projects through construction documents.

Outside of work, Brad enjoys spending time with his wife Jacqui, traveling, cooking, playing volleyball and ice hockey. However, he’s probably most often working on the renovation of his own 1930s East Nashville cottage.

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Thomas Lademan

Associate

Thomas spent his childhood in Annapolis, Maryland. An interest in classical design led him to study architecture at Benedictine College. Prior experience in construction, especially working with a timber frame builder, has given him a great understanding of the technical aspects of residential construction. Since joining Rankin Designworks, he assists in developing construction documents, serves as the office BIM manager, and lends his outstanding sketching ability to early-stage schematics.

Outside of work Thomas likes spending time with friends, golfing, playing guitar and can often be found working on his family’s Middle Tennessee farm.

Contact Us
Logo for Rankin Designworks Architecture featuring a large white letter "R" in a tan square, with the company name in uppercase letters below.

2323 21st Ave S, Suite 200,
Nashville, TN, 37212

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©2025 Rankin Designworks Architecture. All rights reserved. Website design by Hyport Digital

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