Meet Our Team
We Guide You Through a Curated, Design-Build Process to Fulfill Your Dreams
Who We Are
At Paul Kowalski Builders, we’re a seamless, collaborative team of professionals with deep experience in architectural design and best-in-class construction.
Together, we provide an elevated experience, guiding you with decisions and delivering the superb outcomes you are looking for on time and on budget.
Owner | Licensed General Contractor
Paul Kowalski
I grew up in New Jersey and eventually made my way to Charlotte after college, where my career began in the coatings industry through Sherwin-Williams’ management program. While that role taught me a lot about leadership and operations, it was my introduction to homebuilding that truly changed my path. I spent several years with John Wieland Homes and Neighborhoods, where I gained invaluable experience in construction and, more importantly, the client experience. When the market shifted in 2008, I made the decision to strike out on my own and build something meaningful through design-build remodeling. Seventeen years later, I’m still grateful to be doing work I genuinely love.
Education & Awards
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Bachelor’s Degree in Business with a double major in Management and Marketing, University of South Carolina
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Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP), National Association of the Remodeling Industry
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Remodeling Magazine Big 50 Service Excellence Award
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Charlotte Business Journal Fast 50 Award
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NARI Hope Award
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Vice President, NARI Charlotte Chapter
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Member, Remodelers Advantage national roundtable
At PKB
At PKB, my role centers around leadership, vision, and operations. I focus on building a strong, healthy culture where people are supported, aligned, and able to do their best work. From an operational standpoint, I’m constantly working to refine and improve our design-build process so we can deliver exceptional value and an outstanding experience for our clients.
What’s Most Rewarding
What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to practice and share leadership. Seeing a teammate grow, achieve something meaningful for themselves or their family, or step into their potential is incredibly rewarding. I also find great joy in hearing from clients who’ve trusted us with their homes and knowing our work has made a positive impact in their lives. That never gets old.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I’m a proud husband and father and cherish time with my family. I enjoy staying active through mountain biking, CrossFit, and skiing, with a personal goal of skiing just about everywhere! I love college and professional football, but nothing compares to cheering on my son Andrew at his games, often very loudly. I also enjoy traveling, exploring new places, and being a foodie with my family, especially with my wife, Cathy.
Senior Architectural Designer
Michelle Sutton
I was born in Ohio but moved to Charlotte in elementary school and graduated from high school here. With over 35 years of my life spent in Charlotte, I proudly consider myself an "OG Charlottean". This city and its homes have deeply shaped my love for residential design.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, NC State University
- Master of Architecture, UNC Charlotte
I worked as a Kitchen and Bath Designer for years while completing my degrees. Prior to discovering my love and aptitude for residential design, I worked in the commercial healthcare architecture field as an Interior Architectural Designer, designing public spaces in hospitals across the country. For the last 15 years, I’ve focused on custom residential renovations, with a particular love for Charlotte’s historic homes and producing design solutions that are respectfully stitched into the fabric of the original building.
At PKB
At PKB, I represent the beginning of the design process, working with clients in the earliest stages of creative thinking and problem-solving. I listen carefully, collecting all the wants and needs of the client, unraveling their ideas, interpreting them, and reimagining them into thoughtful design solutions. My goal is always to address and solve the common struggles of space, function, lifestyle, and aesthetics.
What’s Most Rewarding
From the time I was a small child I always loved understanding how things were built. As I grew older I recognized that space had such a profound effect on our lives and our communities. I enjoy the ability to be creative and imaginative everyday and see that applied in a way that helps people in real tangible ways.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I am a proud mom, aunt, sister, and daughter, and I love my family deeply. I’m a bit of a homebody and truly prize a cozy day at home with nothing scheduled. I value a simple life. On any given weekend, you might find me tinkering on a project around the house or yard, having dinner with friends, or volunteering at church. If I could live anywhere else, it would be in a little house on a beach, where the days pass slowly and people are happy.
Director of First Impressions
Cathy Kowalski
Cathy has worked alongside Paul at PKB for many years and enjoys her role as the first point of contact for potential clients. Cathy finds that learning about their needs and how PKB may be able to help is both interesting and rewarding. When not at PKB, Cathy loves to play tennis and travel.
Production Manager
Jake Warchola
I’m originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and spent about 20 years in Northern Virginia before relocating to Charlotte in 2021. After owning and operating a design build remodeling business in Virginia for 16 years, I was ready for a new chapter. With my kids grown and out of the house, the move to Charlotte was driven by a desire for new personal experiences and fresh professional challenges.
Education
I graduated with a degree in Carpentry and have spent over 40 years working in residential construction. My experience spans estimating, marketing, sales, operations, and hands on building. I previously held all required certifications and licenses while operating my business in Virginia and continue to stay actively involved in professional organizations such as Remodelers Advantage and NARI for ongoing support and education.
At PKB
At PKB, I support the production team by working closely with field supervisors and project managers to ensure projects run smoothly from start to finish. My role includes training, quality control, problem solving, and overseeing the financial aspects of production. I also maintain strong relationships with our trade partners and collaborate with the design, estimating, and selections teams as projects move into the construction phase. Throughout production, I stay involved to help ensure both the team and our clients have a positive, well managed experience.
What’s Most Rewarding
What drives me most is the opportunity to leave things better than I found them. Remodeling allows for an immediate and lasting impact, creating spaces that will be part of someone’s life for years to come. I find it incredibly humbling that clients invite us into their homes and trust us with work that truly enhances how they live. I also enjoy mentoring the next generation of construction professionals and appreciate that every project brings new challenges, keeping the work engaging and rewarding.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I’m a big foodie and enjoy both cooking and exploring new restaurants, breweries, wineries, and craft cocktail spots. I love attending social events, performing arts, and sporting events, and I enjoy traveling locally, taking road trips, and exploring international destinations while getting immersed in local scenes and hidden gems. I’m a lifelong supporter of Pittsburgh sports teams and enjoy staying active through hiking, CrossFit, and golf. I’m also an avid auto enthusiast and share this journey with my partner, Wendy. Between us, we have five grown children and one grandson.
Project Guide
Chris Livingston
Chris's career in the residential remodeling industry began in 2020 after completing his call to service as a U.S. Army Ranger. Utilizing his high level skills in communication, team building and critical thinking, Chris guides homeowners through PKB's design & build process. Because he is "cognizant that the remodeling experience is unique and more personal than most other experiences," he values open communication and building trust.
Field Supervisor
Dan Kenney
Dan's background as an Educator and then a Remodeler makes him perfectly suited to manage PKB's projects. Dan is a UNCC graduate and taught Middle School before he began flipping houses and gaining valuable residential remodeling experience. His organization, keen eye, and enthusiasm to build a successful project are just a few reasons why homeowners and colleagues love working with him.
Project Outfitter
Brooke Hospelhorn
I was born in Iowa and spent my early childhood there before moving to Charlotte in 2014 for my parents’ jobs. I went to middle school and high school in North Carolina, so while Iowa is part of my story, Charlotte truly feels like home. Growing up in the industry with a father who is a custom cabinet maker also played a big role in shaping my interest in design from an early age.
Education
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Associate Degree in Interior Design, Central Piedmont Community College
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I also grew up working alongside my father, a custom cabinet maker, which helped build a strong foundation in materials, craftsmanship, and design.
At PKB
At PKB, I guide clients through the selections process, helping them choose finishes that align with their vision, lifestyle, and overall design. I provide a concierge-style experience by curating options and coordinating showroom appointments, making what can feel overwhelming more streamlined and enjoyable. Clients typically work with me during the development phase and often continue during construction as selections are finalized.
What’s Most Rewarding
I’ve always loved interior design. Even as a kid, I was constantly rearranging my room and imagining new layouts. What I enjoy most about design-build is seeing a project come together from start to finish. It feels like solving a puzzle, transforming something messy into a space that’s thoughtful, functional, and beautiful.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I spend most of my time with my dog, Kola, a high-energy German Shorthaired Pointer who keeps me on my toes. I also love cooking and baking and recently started making sourdough. I’m part of a close-knit car club where we go on mountain drives, host car meets, and travel together for larger events. I also enjoy spending time with my parents, younger sister, and family whenever I can.
Pre-Production Manager
Siwatu Spikes
I’m someone who’s always been drawn to structure, problem-solving, and thoughtful planning. I value clarity, discipline, and intention in my work, and I’m especially interested in how well-considered decisions early in a project can shape better outcomes later on.
Education
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Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business Management
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Associate Degree in Information Technology with a focus on Computer Science
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Construction & Trades Training - Home Builders Institute & The Home Depot’s Military Transition Programs, later invited back as a guest speaker for other transitioning veterans.
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North Carolina General Contractor’s License
At PKB
At PKB, I focus on the planning and preparation phase that bridges design and construction. I help align design intent, scope, budget, selections, and constructibility so projects are fully vetted and positioned for success before moving into active production. This work helps ensure the build phase is efficient, coordinated, and sets both the team and our clients up for a smooth experience once construction begins.
What’s Most Rewarding
I enjoy the strategic nature of pre-production and take pride in bringing clarity to complex situations. Solving problems early and helping create well-planned projects that allow everyone involved to move forward with confidence is what I find most rewarding.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I enjoy drawing, drafting, and studying architectural design. I value time with family, appreciate thoughtful craftsmanship, and approach both work and life with discipline, creativity, and intention.
Field Supervisor
Aaron Noll
I’m originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and relocated to the Lake Norman area with my wife in 2023. We enjoy lake life and spending time outdoors, and North Carolina has been a great place to call home as we started this next chapter.
Education & Experience
I bring over 25 years of hands-on experience in the construction industry, with deep knowledge across all aspects of residential remodeling and building. Prior to relocating to North Carolina, I owned and operated my own remodeling company in Pittsburgh, which gave me a well-rounded perspective on both the technical and relationship-driven sides of the industry.
At PKB
At PKB, I oversee projects from start to finish as a Field Supervisor, making sure each build stays aligned with the design, schedule, and overall vision. I work closely with our trade partners to keep projects moving smoothly and ensure quality is maintained every step of the way. I meet clients at the beginning of the process and stay in consistent communication throughout construction, helping guide the project as it comes to life on site.
What’s Most Rewarding
After relocating to North Carolina, I chose to continue in the industry in a different way rather than building a new company from the ground up. Stepping into a Field Supervisor role offered a new challenge while still allowing me to do what I love. My favorite part of the design-build process is seeing what’s possible and watching the team bring ideas off the page and into reality.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I enjoy hunting, fishing, boating, and spending time on the lake. My wife and I have been married for 26 years and have two adult children. Our daughter is a Physician Assistant in Florida and is getting married in 2027, and our son is a Police Officer in Pennsylvania entering his second year of service. We also have a four-year-old Boxer named Sadie who fully embraces lake life alongside us.
Field Supervisor
Anthone Alsobrooks
I’m based in Charlotte, North Carolina and have a strong connection to the local community. Being rooted here allows me to better understand our clients, the local market, and the unique needs of projects throughout the area.
Education
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Associate Degree, NASCAR Technical Institute
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Certificates in NASCAR Chassis Welding and NASCAR/Hendrick Engine Building (Spec Engine)
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Ford Technician Credentials, including electrical systems, engine repair and performance, brakes, steering and suspension, climate control, and advanced diesel diagnostics.
At PKB
At PKB, I work closely with clients and internal teams to help guide projects through the design-build process. I focus on clear communication, coordination, and making sure clients feel informed and confident as their ideas take shape and move into execution. I serve as a reliable point of contact throughout the process, helping ensure projects stay aligned and move forward smoothly.
What’s Most Rewarding
I enjoy being part of a process that turns ideas into something tangible. Collaboration and problem-solving are a big part of what I enjoy, and it’s rewarding to watch a project come together while knowing I helped make the experience positive and seamless for the client.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and staying engaged in the Charlotte community. I value learning new things, meaningful conversations, and bringing the same level of care and attention to my personal life that I bring to my work.
Project Developer
Nick Turochy
Marketing Director
Sam Trenski
I was born in Fort Bragg as an Army kid, but Pittsburgh is my true hometown! Along the way, my path took me through Texas and Colorado before I eventually found my way to Charlotte. I’ve always gravitated toward marketing because it allows me to blend creativity with connection, telling stories that help people truly understand the brands behind the work.
Education
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Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing with a Digital Marketing Specialization, Colorado State University
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Currently completing a Master’s Degree in Digital Marketing at Wake Forest University
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My career in marketing has allowed me to work across a wide range of industries, including food service, law, medical, industrial, and now design-build, each shaping how I approach strategy, storytelling, and brand building.
At PKB
At PKB, my role centers on shaping how our brand is seen, understood, and experienced. I focus on clearly communicating who we are, what we do, and the standards we hold ourselves to. From messaging and visuals to systems and processes, my work supports the entire client journey and ensures that every touchpoint reflects the level of quality, care, and intention behind our work.
What’s Most Rewarding
What I enjoy most is getting to know our clients and understanding what truly matters to them in their homes. Being able to help tell their stories while also highlighting the heart, values, and craftsmanship of our team is incredibly meaningful to me. Community involvement has always been important throughout my career, and I take great pride in helping shape how PKB gives back and stays connected to the communities we serve.
Outside the Office
When I’m not in the office, you’ll usually find me with my husband and our large furbaby, Caesar. In our off time, we run a small side project creating custom-labeled candles for individuals and businesses, with all proceeds going back to veteran organizations in honor of our fathers. I’m also endlessly curious and always exploring new creative outlets. Currently, I enjoy practicing my graphic design, hand beading, laser engraving, and embroidery.
Production Designer
Dylan Boulware
I’m a Rock Hill native and have called the area home since 2001. My interest in architecture and design began early, spending time as a kid building with Legos and creating 3D models in video games. I’ve always had a natural curiosity for how things work and fit together, which ultimately led me into the world of design.
Education
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Associate of Science in Engineering Graphics Technologies, York Technical College
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Graduated Cum Laude, recognition on both the President’s List and Dean’s List.
At PKB
At PKB, I help turn ideas into clear, well-thought-out plans that guide each project from start to finish. I create detailed drawings that help the team understand existing spaces, plan new ones, and bring everything together smoothly during construction, ensuring what’s designed on paper translates seamlessly into what’s built.
What’s Most Rewarding
I enjoy blending creativity with problem-solving and find it rewarding to know my work helps shape spaces clients will enjoy for years to come. My favorite part of the process is seeing everything come together just before the walls are finished, when the spaces truly start to feel real.
Outside the Office
Outside the office, I spend time with my wife and daughter. My wife is a baker, and together we sell sourdough bread and baked goods at local farmers markets on the weekends. When the weather warms up, weekends are often spent wakesurfing on Lake Wylie.
