Carl Olson, AIA  CID  NCARB

Owner, Architect

Licensed in MN, FL, NC, WI

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When I started my own architecture firm in 2021 after two decades in residential architecture, I named it North Arrow because it represents my love of the outdoors and my passion for guiding my clients through even the most complex new construction and renovation projects. Whether I’m designing an estate, updating a lake cabin or creating an authentic English scullery, I love helping my clients find their home’s true north—an incomparable feeling of ease, simplicity and harmony.

           

With every project, I take great pride in collaborating with builders, artisans, interior designers and landscape architects to design spaces with beauty, meaning and intention. And, while I enjoy every aspect of the process, I especially love designing special spaces for creativity and imagination, like hidden pantries and secret reading nooks with bookshelves shaped like trees. And, because design is always in the details, I love searching the world for unusual materials, unique finishes, handcrafted fixtures and other treasures to add layers of warmth and authenticity to my clients’ homes.

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I’m proud to have designed a wide array of projects, from country estates and historic lake cottages to simple kitchens with tight budgets, and I’m honored to have received many awards for my work. But, my greatest joy comes from being part of my clients’ lives. When I’m not in the studio with my dog Coach, I love spending time with my family, preferably fishing on our favorite lake, playing music and making things out of wood.  I welcome the opportunity to talk to you about your project and maybe even trade a fishing story or two!

 

Carl Olson