GARRETT P. NELSON
Principal
A native of Spring Lake, New Jersey, Garrett has over 30 years of experience in residential architecture, developing a style that exudes charm and whimsy. He graduated from the University of North Carolina Charlotte with both a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture and a Bachelor of Architecture. In 2007, he founded Garrett P. Nelson Studio, focusing on building a strong brand for custom residential architecture. His professional contributions extend beyond his studio, as he served two consecutive mayoral appointed terms on The Charlotte Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission and also held the role of Design Review Chairman for four years.
Additionally, Garrett has a passion for education and has been serving as an Adjunct Professor at Queen’s University Charlotte in the Interior Architecture + Design Program since 2018. With his wealth of experience, Garrett is deeply committed to both advancing the practice of architecture and educating future generations. Outside of the studio, you can find Garrett and his wife Erin running trails, mountain biking, or playing pickleball and tennis.
BRADLEY WALKUP
Lead Architectural Designer
Bradley has over 11 years of experience specializing in residential architecture, having earned his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, and his professional Bachelor of Architecture Degree’s from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2014. Born and raised in Waxhaw, NC, Bradley has always had a deep-rooted passion for residential design, which has driven his career from a young age. Bradley’s focus is on integrating 3D modeling and a detailed perspective into the design process. Bradley thrives on creating spaces that not only meet the functional needs of clients but also reflect their personal stories.
Outside of the studio, Bradley enjoys spending time outdoors and traveling, which fuels his creativity and gives him a broader perspective on architectural styles and trends. Known for his focused and streamlined approach, he ensures a smooth and collaborative process with clients from start to finish.
SARAH TRAYWICK
Lead Architectural Designer
Sarah grew up in Asheville, North Carolina, where her love for nature and architecture first took root. She pursued her passion at North Carolina State University, earning a Bachelor in Environmental Design and a Bachelor in Architecture. Her studies took her abroad to the Prague Institute and a landscape architecture studio in Ghana, broadening her perspective on design.
After graduating, Sarah joined Perkins + Will, where she worked in commercial architecture for five years. She was part of the winning team for the Design Leadership Competition, an international design competition that explored social and economic issues in urban environments. In 2022, she relocated to Charlotte with her husband Conner and decided to embrace a new direction in her career. She soon joined Garrett P. Nelson Studio and has been practicing residential architecture ever since.
LINDSAY ROCCO
Lead Interior Designer
Lindsay brings 30 years of experience in design, construction, and zoning to the firm. She has been with Garrett P. Nelson Studio for two years, focusing on interior architecture and design ideation. Graduating with bachelor degrees in Art History from Syracuse University and Interior Architecture and Design from Queens University Charlotte has given her a unique perspective regarding historical design foundations and their contemporary interpretation.
"Working with Garrett and our team has been one of the most rewarding collaborative experiences of my life. I learn from each of my colleagues every day and am so grateful for the opportunity to create beautiful homes for our clients with them."
ERIN NELSON
Director of Operations
Erin brings her love for the outdoors and a wealth of expertise to our team. Raised amidst the natural beauty of the Adirondacks in upstate NY, Erin's heart is forever tied to nature. As a former collegiate athlete, she knows the value of teamwork and determination. She holds an undergraduate degree in Accounting from the State University of New York at Oswego and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Cornell University, uniquely blending financial acumen with strategic insight.
By day, Erin is a Managing Director at Ankura, specializing in healthcare strategic and capital planning. In her spare time, she supports the studio's business endeavors. Erin is also a board member at Wing Haven and actively volunteers with Hospice (Via Health Partners) and the Red Cross.
Recognized as one of Charlotte's 30-under-30, Erin continues to shine in her field. When she's not working or volunteering, you'll find Erin enjoying the great outdoors with her husband, Garrett.