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.

A man in a dark suit and white shirt stands smiling next to a brick wall, with green leafy trees and a bright outdoor sidewalk in the background.

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.

A man with short, wavy gray hair and a trimmed beard smiles at the camera. He is wearing a light blue button-up shirt and standing outdoors in front of leafy green bushes.

William knight

Associate

William was born and raised in Nashville.  After graduating from Ensworth High School he studied civil engineering at Ole Miss. He spent six years working as a structural engineer prior to joining Rankin DesignWorks and is currently completing his Master of Architecture at Lawrence Tech University. William has a strong passion for classical and historically accurate design. He assists in the production of design documentation through both 2D and 3D modeling, as well as assists in developing key design details.

Outside of work, William enjoys being outside with his family. His favorite activities include golf, hunting and cooking. He and his wife are both from Nashville and are very involved in the local community.

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