About Us

A custom home sketch of a modern farmhouse design.

Five Quarter Architecture is a full-service architecture studio based in Savannah, GA, where we bring thoughtful design, innovative solutions, and a deep commitment to our clients’ success. Our mission is simple: to create meaningful, timeless architecture that not only meets—but exceeds—your expectations.

We believe that great design starts with collaboration. By listening to our clients and understanding their vision, we craft spaces that are functional, beautiful, and tailored to their unique needs. From concept to completion, we prioritize responsiveness, allowing projects to be handled with care, attention to detail, and a focus on quality. Our team is passionate about collaborating closely with clients, contractors, and consultants to deliver successful, well-executed projects that enrich the spaces we design.

Whether you’re embarking on new construction, an addition or renovation, we approach every challenge with creativity, expertise, and dedication. At Five Quarter Architecture, we’re not just creating buildings; we’re creating experiences that stand the test of time. Let us help you bring your vision to life with architecture that inspires and endures.

Our Process

Throughout every phase, we leverage Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to streamline the process. BIM allows us to create detailed, accurate 3D models that help visualize the design early on and identify potential challenges before they arise. It also allows all project stakeholders—clients, contractors, engineers, and vendors—to be on the same page, enhancing communication and coordination across the board.

At Five Quarter Architecture, we guide each project through a structured, yet flexible, design process that provides quality, clarity, and collaboration at every stage. We approach each project within the traditional architectural phases: Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding and Negotiation, and Construction Administration. Depending on your project’s needs, we tailor these phases to create the most effective path to success.

By embracing a collaborative, transparent approach, we deliver projects that are not only beautifully designed but also efficiently executed. Our process is built on strong relationships, open communication, and a shared commitment to success.

Commercial Architecture

At Five Quarter Architecture, we specialize in a wide variety of commercial project types, including offices, retail, restaurants, places of worship, event venues, and other business-related facilities. Whether you’re building from the ground up, renovating an existing space, or adapting a historic structure, we bring the same commitment to thoughtful, functional, and inspiring design.

With extensive experience in local historic districts, we are well-versed in navigating board review processes for new infill projects, additions, and adaptive reuse. Our knowledge of these unique requirements allows us to deliver projects that blend seamlessly with their surroundings while maintaining modern functionality.

Our process begins with a comprehensive site analysis and/or existing building assessment, providing an understanding of the project’s context. From there, we collaborate closely with you to review the program, goals, and budget. With this foundation, we move into schematic design, focusing on building layout, space adjacencies, and conceptualizing the exterior form to begin creating a cohesive, functional design. We then help you navigate through the rest of the design, documentation, procurement, and construction phases of the project. We combine creativity, technical expertise, and a commitment to collaboration to deliver exceptional commercial spaces that support the success of your business.

Residential Architecture

A well-designed home should be more than just a place to live, it should reflect your lifestyle, personality, and the experiences that matter most. At Five Quarter Architecture, we are dedicated to creating homes that not only meet your needs but also enrich your everyday life and create lasting memories for you and your guests.

We begin every residential project by understanding your unique vision. We start by exploring three key questions:

  1. What have you loved or disliked about your current or previous homes?
  2. What elements have you admired in other homes you’ve visited or discovered on platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, Houzz, etc.?
  3. When you close your eyes and imagine your dream home, what do you see?

By understanding your personal preferences and the stories behind them, we begin crafting a home that reflects your individuality. We focus on the overall layout, the flow of spaces, and the aesthetic that resonates with you. We don’t just design a home; we create a space that feels truly yours.

At the same time, we study the site to harmoniously blend the home with its natural surroundings. Thoughtful site organization, capturing natural light, and framing picturesque views are central to our design philosophy. Every detail is considered to create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors.

About the Founder

Ryan Claus is the founder of Five Quarter Architecture, bringing over 13 years of experience in architecture and design. A graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with a Master of Architecture degree, Ryan has deep roots in the Savannah area, having grown up in Pooler, Georgia, and spending his life around Savannah. His lifelong connection to the area has instilled in him a profound appreciation for historic architecture, classical orders, and the art of blending timeless principles with modern functionality.

Before founding Five Quarter Architecture, Ryan honed his skills at two prestigious, award-winning local firms. He began his career at Greenline Architecture, before advancing to Felder & Associates, where he quickly became a project manager and ultimately the Director of Operations. His diverse professional experience spans a wide range of project types, from residential to commercial design, giving him a comprehensive understanding of how to craft spaces that are both beautiful and functional.

As a registered architect, Ryan is a member of the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA). His contributions to the field have earned him notable recognition, including the AIA Bronze Medal in 2013 for his work with the Savannah Young Architects Forum. In 2020, he was honored as a member of Savannah Magazine’s New Guard, recognizing influential leaders shaping the future of the city.

Ryan’s dedication to preserving Savannah’s historic character extends beyond his professional work. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees for the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF), where he works to protect and promote the City’s architectural heritage. Ryan is also actively involved in his local church, where he serves the community in various capacities. When he’s not working, Ryan enjoys spending quality time with his wife and three children. He’s an avid woodworker, enjoys home improvement projects, and loves sketching and photography. He’s also passionate about staying active and traveling the world.