Reader & Swartz Architects

06/19/2026

Construction vs. 3D model:

This view is not a happy accident — it's by design. 3D models are an important part of our design process to make sure we capture the best views at each project site.

We're excited to see how this new project at the base of Old Rag Mountain is coming along!

10/10/2025

Presenting our new project: a writer's sanctuary nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains! This intimate modern cabin merges dramatic mountain vistas with forest solitude—featuring a butterfly roofline that frames epic views, a quiet writing alcove looking into the woods, and natural materials that blur the line between architecture and landscape.

Check out the project on our website for more details and photos!

📸: Caleb Snyder, AIA ( )

09/27/2024

Our projects at the MSV won a Citation award from AIA Virginia! Check out the projects under the "community" tab on our website (link in bio). Or if you're in the area, take a walk along the the MSV trails to see the projects for yourself!

08/28/2024

Winner Winner! The Shepherdstown Grandparents' House won an Award of Excellence in Residential Architecture from AIA Northern Virginia! Check out the "residential" section on our website to learn more about the renovations and additions to this small guest house (originally designed by Fernau + Hartman Architects).

https://aianova.org/awards/shepherdstown-grandparents-house/

11/21/2023

Located in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, The Birch Bower is a new, accessible house designed to be used in three different scenarios: as a one-bedroom private getaway for the owner, as a hub to host family and friends, and as a rental property for vacationers. Check out out our website ( https://readerswartz.com/pf/the-birch-bower/ ) for more information, or visit Red Barn Vacations https://redbarnvacations.com/the-birch-bower/ # to rent the property! Also be sure to check out on Instagram!

01/19/2022

Roaring creek is well underway in the West Virginia mountains! It’s been closed in and covered with bark and live edge siding.

11/23/2021

We are excited that the Blue Ridge Habitat for Humanity is about to build five new houses as Phase 2 of the Norris Village project! We designed the nine Phase 1 houses in the early 1990's, and we are very excited about helping to bring the dream of home ownership to local families again!

11/23/2021

Crooked Bow Tie wins it again! This West Virginia weekend house was awarded honorable mention for excellence in residential design by AIA Virginia. Check it out on our website to learn more!

The Crooked Bow Tie House

08/20/2021

Big news for Reader & Swartz! Last night, we received the Award of Merit in Residential Design from AIA Northern Virginia for the American British Country House! Visit our website to see more of this award-winning project (link in bio)

04/23/2021

The cows were unMOOved by our attempts at traditional regional modern farmhouse.