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EMAIL jims@designdevelopment.com
PHONE 919.848.4474, 1001
EDUCATION
Master of Architecture | NC State University, School of Design
Concentration in Real Estate Development
Bachelor of Environmental Design | NC State University, School of Design, Magna Cum Laude
FOUNDER OF FIRM 1986
JIM SHEERER
AIA
PRESIDENT
HIGHLIGHTED PROJECTS
EDUCATIONAL
WELCH COLLEGE
New College Campus: Administrative Building, Dormitories, Dining & Music Hall, and Athletic Center.
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FAITH-BASED
CHRIST BAPTIST CHURCH
New sanctuary, Entrance Hall, and covered drop off.
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COMMERCIAL
CAPCOM OFFICE PARK
New office building complex.
Q
&
A
with Jim Sherrer
What’s your favorite part of the design process — and why?
"My favorite part of the design process is meeting people, grasping their vision, and expressing their vision in the work we do for them.
What’s a professional value or principle you bring to your work every day?
"Integrity. I try to treat people the way I want to be treated and I always try to do the right things in all situations.
What excites you most about coming to work every day?
"The people...our clients and our staff. We don't just design buildings, we build relationships.
Tell us something about yourself.
"I am a gentleman farmer with cattle and chickens. I am a grandfather with 13 grandchildren. As my dad would say "if I had known grandkids were so much fun, I'd have had them first!"
What’s one thing that makes this firm’s culture unique?
"We truly are like family. We care for the clients we work with but we also care for the staff that works alongside us everyday.
How did you get into architecture?
"From my childhood, I always wanted to be an architect. Of course at that age, I really didn't understand what an architect did. But as I grew up I enjoyed math and geometry and it seemed a good fit. I'm glad I stayed with it!
How do you ensure that design intent is maintained during construction?
"By being involved during construction. Some clients feel they don't need us during construction. But we bring value to the process. We have the best construction administrator guy I have ever met (Les Murray) and Les does his best to see that the design intent is realized.
Describe a space (built or natural) that inspires you.
"Thorncrown Chapel… simple materials, sculpturally put together… perfect interaction of the natural and the built environment.
What’s one thing on your desk you can’t work without?
"A pencil. I went through a stage with pens — fountain pens — but lately I’ve picked up a pencil again and feel more at home. Blackwing pencils are the best!
What’s your favorite part of your role at the firm?
"Seeing others be successful… it might be a client who realizes their vision, or a staff member who succeeds with a new project.
"Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts." - Proverbs 24:3-4