Introducing a design‑build studio where thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship come together to create projects with intention.

Get a seamless, guided experience where design, construction, and communication work together from start to finish.

Our approach

Our approach blends thoughtful design expertise with streamlined project management, giving clients a guided, transparent, and well‑organized experience from the first conversation to the final walkthrough. Let us bring you one step closer to your dream project.

Learn More
A young man and woman standing together against a white wall. The man is holding a rolled-up document and looking at the woman, who is holding a tablet and looking down at it. They are both wearing casual dark T-shirts with a logo, jeans, and sneakers.

Client Centered Focus.

We operate with a client‑first mindset, ensuring every decision, detail, and communication supports a smooth, confident experience.

 

In-person and remote options

Our office is remotely located in Shelbyville. Can’t make it into the office? No worries – we’ve got you covered with virtual options.

Our services

  • Blueprint drawing of a two-story house with detailed structural lines on a black background.

    General Contracting

  • Line drawing of various small household and office items including a water dispenser, smartphones, notebook, plant, calendar, and a bowl, arranged on a surface.

    Interior Design

  • Outline drawing of various woodworking tools and supplies on a black background, including a cordless drill, clamps, wood pieces, measuring tools, a bottle of glue, and small screws.

    Custom Fabrication / Specialty Services

  • Line drawing of a construction helmet, a hammer, a rolled measuring tape, a ruler, and a sheet of paper, all related to construction work.

    Rough and Finish Carpentry

Learn More

Meet our team

  • A young man with blonde hair, wearing a black baseball cap and dark t-shirt, stands against a plain white wall with his right hand in his pocket and left hand resting on his hip.

    Michael Carlen

    Owner, Carpenter

  • Young woman with long brown hair smiling, holding a closed laptop, standing in an office or home workspace with a desk, computer monitor, and framed pictures on the wall.

    Kaylie Carlen

    Owner, Designer

Learn More

“Such a great experience. The team blended creativity, professionalism, and thoughtful attention to detail. Our space feels elevated and uniquely personal.”

— AN OLIVE & CEDAR CLIENT

  • Interior view of a white door and a side panel near a window with a house and trees outside.

    The Broadway Home Renovation

  • Interior of a room with beige walls, two white-framed windows showing green trees and blue sky outside, wooden flooring, and a recessed ceiling light turned on.

    The Ray New Construction Home

  • Indoor hallway with sliding glass door on the left, open doorway on the right revealing a shiny, reflective floor and a partially visible person standing in the distance.

    Shelbyville, IL ACE Hardware

See More

Just starting out or ready to move forward? Let’s connect.

Inquiry Form