Novus Architects Expands Southeast Presence with Strategic Merger

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Lydia Susong, Marketing Coordinator, Novus Architects
Phone: (843) 849-7407
Email:  lydia.susong@novusa.com 

January 20, 2025

Novus Architects Expands Southeast Presence with Strategic Merger,
Welcomes Acclaimed Architect Michael West as EXECUTIVE PRINCIPAL OF Operations 

Winston-Salem, NC – Novus Architects, a leading architectural firm celebrating its 33rd year of innovative design excellence, announces their merger with award-winning firm West & Stem, effective January 1, 2025. This strategic union strengthens Novus's commitment to exceptional architectural solutions while expanding its expertise in civic and industrial design.

P. Michael West, AIA, founder of West & Stem, will take on the role of Executive Principal of Operations for Novus Architects. With 44 years of extensive experience in the architectural field and deep local knowledge, Michael is well-equipped to lead the integration of West & Stem Architects' talented team while bringing fresh perspectives to Novus's expanding portfolio of projects. Additionally, James Stem, AIA, partner at West & Stem, has been appointed as Divisional Principal with Novus, overseeing the Winston-Salem office and business development in the region.

“Our growth has always been rooted in finding exceptional talent that shares our vision for creating transformative spaces," says Tommy Smith, CEO of Novus Architects. “Michael and James’ (J’s) expertise and leadership and the experienced West & Stem team will be instrumental in our next chapter of growth while fitting in well with the close-knit, collaborative culture that has defined Novus since 1992."

Joining Novus represents an exciting evolution for our team," says Michael West.  "Their commitment to cross-market collaboration and family-first culture perfectly aligns with our values. I'm looking forward to contributing to Novus's continued success and growth in my new role as Executive Principal of Operations."

The merger enhances Novus Architects' capabilities across multiple verticals while maintaining their signature approach to integrated collaboration that ensures every client benefits from their collective expertise. This expansion reinforces Novus's position as a powerhouse in the Southeast architectural landscape while maintaining the personalized service and innovative design solutions that have been their hallmark for over three decades.

About West & Stem Architects

Founded in 2008, West & Stem Architects is a regionally-focused architectural firm dedicated to delivering innovative, client-focused design solutions. With experience in Healthcare, Higher Education, Municipal, Commercial, and Industrial sectors, West & Stem has focused on a commitment to blending creativity, functionality, and sustainability in each project, resulting in award-winning spaces that inspire and endure.  Located at 5455 Bethania Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106, the new office will serve as a hub for Novus Architects to foster relationships with clients and partners in the greater North Carolina region. 

About Novus Architects

Novus Architects is a full-service architecture firm with offices in Asheville, NC, Atlanta, GA, Charleston, SC, Charlotte, NC, Rocky Mount, NC, St. Thomas, USVI, and Winston-Salem, NC. Committed to quality in both their work and relationships, Novus is known for its innovative approach to solution-based design and project management. The firm's portfolio reflects its experience in various building sectors, including Healthcare, K-12, Higher Education, Financial, Municipal, Hospitality, Multi-Family, Recreation, Commercial, and Worship. With a diverse team skilled in Architecture, Interior Design, Project Management, FFE Coordination, Environmental Graphics, and Construction Administration, Novus has established itself as a prominent design firm with regional and national clients.