Kettlesong is deeply rooted in the upstate of the Carolinas. This region of the Piedmont is marked by a unique combination of qualities - climate, geography, culture, and rich history of agriculture & textiles have formed a compelling vernacular. This vernacular will guide us, but not necessarily define us. We embrace an aesthetic that combines a thoughtful response to the Upstate vernacular and an appreciation of contemporary style and the advantages of modern technologies and sensibilities. When we combine a respect for history with forward thinking, we create a timeless curated collection of buildings that are more than just sticks and bricks. They form a framework of connections between neighbors and nature.

---

At Kettlesong, a set number of predetermined styles won’t define us. Rather, we’ll be inspired by local history while we remain distinctly connected to the present and look toward the future.

The Kettlesong style will include climatic response strategies that combines the tradition of simple, no-nonsense building forms with modern inventive solutions that are responsible and economical. These guidelines lay out key concepts which have been carefully researched and developed for both historical/ vernacular appropriateness and for modern effectiveness.

---

Rolling hills, temperate winters, hot humid summers, the song of a Carolina wren… Climate and landscape have had a profound effect on the vernacular architecture and the culture of the Upstate. Indigenous materials from the clay of the earth, to the hardwoods of the forests - the dominate materials of historic architecture continue to inform regional building design and construction today. The simple utilitarian forms of traditional agrarian and industrial buildings evolved in response to sweltering heat, bountiful sun and humidity, generous rains, and mild winters. Narrow volumes and gabled roofs shed the rain and admit natural light into the center of a home or a barn. Deep overhangs, screened porches and dog trots for cross-ventilation made summers tolerable before the advent of air conditioning. Large windows and doors, often with slatted shutters allow air to move through a building without admitting the mid-day summer sun.

---