Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Norton.
Hi Leslie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always been interested in how people actually live in their homes—what they need, how they move through a space, and the small moments that make a house feel truly personal. That curiosity is what initially drew me to architecture after watching my parents and their architect transform my childhood home. After completing my education and gaining experience in architecture, I worked in high-end kitchen design at SieMatic, where I developed a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, precision, and how thoughtful details can elevate everyday life.
That experience, combined with my architectural background, has shaped how I approach design today. When I started Norton Design Studio, my goal was to create a practice centered on people—listening carefully, asking the right questions, and designing spaces that feel intuitive rather than overly formal. Over time, that philosophy led to what my clients now refer to as “Norton Niches”: custom moments within a home that are designed specifically for the way a family lives, whether that’s a tucked-away reading nook, a perfectly sized pantry workspace, or a quiet spot to pause in an otherwise busy home.
The studio has grown organically through word of mouth, mainly because clients recognize that level of care and intention. Working in South Carolina has been especially rewarding—the balance of tradition and modern living, along with the climate and landscape, allows for homes that feel both refined and relaxed. Today, I continue to focus on residential architecture and renovations that combine thoughtful planning, elevated kitchens and interiors, and deeply personal details that make a house feel like home.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth or linear road, and I don’t think most meaningful paths are. One of the biggest challenges has been learning to balance the creative side of architecture with the realities of running a small business. Designing is only part of the work—there’s also client communication, contracts, timelines, and the responsibility of guiding people through decisions that are often both personal and financially significant.
My path hasn’t been traditional, and for a long time, I was piecing together experiences that didn’t feel like a straight line. I taught interior design, worked in luxury kitchen design with SieMatic, and continued to build my architectural experience in parallel. Each role taught me something different—how people live in their spaces, the importance of craftsmanship and detail, and how to communicate clearly with clients.
One of the biggest personal challenges was becoming licensed later than I ever expected. Fear of failure held me back longer than I care to admit, and working through that mindset was just as important as meeting the technical requirements. Looking back, that slower path gave me confidence, perspective, and a deeper understanding of both design and people.
Those experiences shaped how I practice today. I approach each project with empathy, patience, and a strong focus on the people behind the spaces, designing homes that are not only beautiful but truly support the way their owners live every day.
We’ve been impressed with Norton Design Studio, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Norton Design Studio is a residential architecture and design practice rooted in a people-first approach. Every project begins with listening—understanding how a family lives and how their home can better support their daily routines. That focus shapes everything from overall layouts to the smallest details.
I specialize in residential renovations, additions, and new homes, with a strong emphasis on interior architecture and highly functional living spaces, particularly kitchens. I’ve focused on what I call “Norton Niches”—custom moments within a home, designed for the family and tailored to how people live, whether that’s a reading nook, a built-in workspace, or thoughtful storage that makes everyday life easier.
What sets the studio apart is a balance of refinement and warmth. The work is intentionally not trend-driven, but grounded and personal. I’m involved in every phase of each project, allowing for a highly collaborative process and a level of care that clients often say feels different.
I’m most proud that the studio has grown almost entirely through word of mouth. I want readers to know that Norton Design Studio is about thoughtful, livable design—homes that feel tailored, comfortable, and deeply connected to the people who live in them.
What makes you happy?
My family makes me happiest—my husband, our two kids, and our puppy. They keep me grounded, remind me what really matters, and bring a lot of joy and perspective to my days.
Professionally, I’m happiest when I’m working on truly collaborative projects with clients who trust the process and stay engaged in the design decisions. There’s something incredibly rewarding about creating spaces together and seeing a home take shape in a way that feels meaningful, personal, and genuinely reflective of the people who live there.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.norton-design.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nortondesignstudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nortondesignstudio/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-norton-architect/
