STORY
A young firm, Basic Workshop is the culmination of decades dreaming, practicing and committing to design excellence.
Founded in 2021, Basic Workshop came to be after years honing skills and experience at esteemed firms across Portland, Atlanta and Athens.
A sparkle in the eye since undergrad, Basic Workshop Founder JD Gutermuth sought to establish a firm that mirrored his core values: a dedication to exceptional design, cultivating meaningful client relationships, and contributing to the community fabric beyond profit margins.
After a two-year solo sprint, JD recognized the need for a dynamic partner to propel Basic Workshop into its next phase. Cue Kally Revels, a kindred-spirit joining the practice with a shared vision for marrying old and new, leading with design-first and prioritized client care.
APPROACH
At Basic-Workshop, we embrace a design ethos inspired by the spirit of discovery, craftsmanship, and context-driven innovation. Drawing inspiration from architecture, art, culture, and nature, our approach blends meticulous attention to detail with a deep appreciation for site specificity and cultural resonance. The following six tenants of design guide our work throughout the design process:
CONTEXTUAL SENSITIVITY AND SITE INTEGRATION
Central to our design philosophy is a profound respect for the natural and built environment. We prioritize in-depth site analysis and contextual research to inform our architectural interventions. By understanding the unique character, history, and ecological context of each site, we create designs that harmonize seamlessly with their surroundings while offering a contemporary interpretation of place.
CRAFTSMANSHIP AND MATERIALITY
We celebrate the artistry of construction and embrace the tactile qualities of materials. Our designs emphasize craftsmanship and bespoke detailing, where each element is carefully considered for its aesthetic impact and functional integrity. Whether exploring the expressive potential of timber, concrete, or steel, we seek to elevate materials through innovative applications and meticulous craftsmanship.
SPATIAL EXPERIENCE AND HUMAN INTERACTION
Our architecture is driven by a profound understanding of human experience and interaction. We prioritize the creation of immersive spatial environments that evoke emotion, foster community, and enhance well-being. Through thoughtful spatial planning, daylight optimization, and sensory engagement, we strive to craft spaces that resonate with users on a visceral level, enriching their daily lives and experiences.
SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGICAL INTEGRATION
We are committed to advancing sustainable practices and integrating cutting-edge technologies into our designs. From passive design strategies to renewable energy systems, we seek to minimize environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency and resilience. Our embrace of digital tools and computational design enables us to push the boundaries of innovation.
COLLABORATIVE PROCESS AND CLIENT ENGAGEMENT
Collaboration lies at the heart of our practice. We foster a process that values open dialogue, mutual respect, and shared vision with clients, consultants, and stakeholders. By listening attentively to client aspirations, we co-create bespoke solutions that reflect their unique needs, values, and goals.
Get to know JD and Kally, view our portfolio or break ground with your Design Inquiry today.
JD GUTERMUTH
architect + owner
Meet JD Gutermuth, the visionary and founder behind Basic Workshop.
Born and raised in Atlanta, JD was shaped by the space of his childhood home, a mid-century modern ranch curated with vintage flair. Pursuing higher education at Clemson University, he initially ventured into mechanical engineering before a swift pivot to what proved to be the true creative calling, architecture.
JD's academic journey continued at the University of Oregon where he earned his Masters of Architecture in 2014. After two years with Hacker and five years practicing in the Pacific Northwest, warmer days and sunnier skies down South led him to Lord, Aeck, Sargent in Atlanta.
Securing his architecture license in 2018, he ultimately landed in Athens, where he continued to hone his skills and unique design-first approach at the bespoke Studio BNA.
JD founded Basic Workshop in 2021 - quickly catching attention as an AIA Atlanta Design Awards Finalist and recipient of Historic Athens Outstanding Revitalization Award that same year.
Drawing inspiration from art, architecture, culture, and nature, JD crafts narratives through materials, viewing them as the cornerstone of architectural expression. For him, a structure should be in the most simplified form as possible, while still being special - only including the elements which add to their function, enjoyment, and beauty.
For his clients, JD is the ally. Humility in spades and ego aside, he is here to do what is best for you and yours with wonderful spaces intended to challenge the conventional, push potential for living differently, and, above all else, be enjoyed.
Between shaping spaces, he dabbles in vintage cars, mastering the upright bass, home renovations of his own and managing the chaos of parenting three boys under five alongside his high school sweetheart.
Get in touch with JD or start your Design Inquiry online today.
LAWRENCE JONES
licensed contractor + owner
Lawrence is a rare blend of talent and expertise, combining the skills of a fine furniture maker with the capabilities of a general contractor. His experience in furniture making has honed his attention to detail and precision, setting a higher standard for quality in large-scale construction projects. Unlike many in his field, Lawrence remains hands-on throughout the building process, ensuring that every aspect of construction meets and exceeds market expectations.
Get in touch with Lawrence or start your Design Inquiry online today.
KALLY REVELS
interior designer + project manager
Meet Kally Revels, the project management, interior design and operations arm for Basic Workshop.
With an origin story starting on St. Simons Island, GA, Kally brings small-town roots coupled with winding experience weaving its way through historic preservation, coffee culture, and a passion for creating cozy havens to each project.
Armed with a Bachelor's in Religious Studies from the College of Charleston and a Master's in Historic Preservation from UGA, Kally refined her aesthetic eye, passion for historic properties and tested grit through transformative stud-to-ceiling home renovations - ultimately connecting her to and setting the stage for her collaboration with JD at Basic Workshop.
Before pursuing architecture, Kally navigated the intricacies of nonprofits in Chicago before transitioning to the world of estate sales. Her path took a pivotal turn when she found herself immersed in 1000 Faces Coffee from 2018-2020. Simultaneously, Kally embarked on personal projects, including renovating homes and growing her family with two little ones.
A history aficionado and trend connoisseur, Kally orchestrates spaces that marry past and present all while ensuring comfort and a dash of (oft budget-friendly) panache. A self-proclaimed empath with a penchant for project management, Kally is here to create stress-free experiences, drawing from her personal journey and understanding the nuances of building.
Kally's unique talent lies in making spaces both sophisticated and trendy, all while caring deeply about the emotional journey of her clients. Her compassionate approach and empathetic nature centers around preparing you for the inevitable hiccups, offering unwavering support, and ensuring you feel calm and in control throughout the process.
In Kally's world, ideas and inspiration flow from the juxtaposition of old and new, warm postmodern furniture, and the delicate art of blending contemporary choices within your pragmatic parameters.
In the breaks between the constant stream of exciting personal and professional projects, Kally likes to get cozy and cuddle with her family while watching movies and eating snacks - constantly working on the balance between “having it all” and spending the day under an electric blanket.
Get in touch with Kally or view our portfolio.
TYLER MCLEMORE
architect + project manager
Tyler has over 10 years of experience in designing and architecture. His project portfolio ranges from custom home builds, renovations, and multifamily mixed use, to commercial workplace and healthcare design. Valuing personal connections and collaboration with his clients, Tyler consistently delivers unique and thoughtful solutions for design.
Get in touch with Tyler or view our portfolio.
