Meet Our Team
We Guide You Through a Curated, Design-Build Process to Fulfill Your Dreams
Who We Are
At PKB Design Build, 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.
Paul Kowalski
Owner | Licensed General Contractor
Cathy Kowalski
Director of First Impressions
Jake Warchola
Production & Operations Manager
Sam Trenski
Marketing Director
Michelle Sutton
Senior Architectural Designer
Abbey Wempe
Architectural Designer
Brooke Hospelhorn
Interior Designer
Dylan Boulware
Production Designer
Nick Turochy
Project Developer
LaShawn Thomason
Selections Coordinator
Siwatu Spikes
Project Manager
Aaron Noll
Field Supervisor
Anthone Alsobrooks
Field Supervisor
Dan Kenney
Field Supervisor
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
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business with a double major in Management and Marketing, University of South Carolina
Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP), National Association of the Remodeling Industry - Remodeling Magazine Big 50 Service Excellence Award
- Charlotte Business Journal Fast 50 Award
- NARI Hope Award
- Vice President, NARI Charlotte Chapter
- Member, Remodelers Advantage national roundtable
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.
Director of First Impressions
Cathy Kowalski
Some people find their calling. Others help build it from the ground up. For me, it was both.
I have been part of PKB since the very beginning, building this company alongside my husband Paul with the belief that exceptional homes start with exceptional relationships. Over the years I have watched PKB grow into the firm it is today, and I am proud to say that the heart of what we do has never changed. We genuinely care about the people we work with.
At PKB
As Director of First Impressions, I am the first voice a potential client hears when they reach out to PKB. That first conversation matters more than most people realize. It sets the tone for everything that follows, and I take that responsibility seriously.
My role is to listen. Really listen. Every homeowner who contacts PKB comes with a unique vision, a unique set of needs, and a unique set of questions. I love learning about what people are hoping to create and figuring out how PKB can help them get there. It is genuinely interesting work, and no two conversations are ever quite the same.
What I care most about is making sure every person who reaches out to PKB feels heard, valued, and confident that they are in the right hands from the very first call.
What’s Most Rewarding
There is something special about being the first connection a homeowner makes with PKB. I get to be part of that moment when someone decides to take the leap and invest in their home, and I never take that lightly. Knowing that a conversation I had at the very beginning led to a finished space that a family loves is deeply rewarding.
I also love that this work keeps me connected to what PKB is all about. After all these years, I still believe in what we are building here, and that makes every conversation feel meaningful.
Outside the Office
Outside of work, life revolves around family, tennis, and wherever our next trip takes us. Paul and I love to travel, and exploring new places together is something we look forward to all year. Our son keeps us busy too, between football games and soccer matches.
Production & Operations 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.
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.
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.
Architectural Designer
Abbey Wempe
I’m originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, and spent 10 years living in Texas before moving to North Carolina to be closer to family. I’m grateful to now call North Carolina home and have enjoyed building a life here with my husband, Joe, and our three children.
Education
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Bachelor of Architecture, Louisiana State University
At LSU, I developed the design and technical foundation that continues to guide my work today. My education helped shape the way I think about space, function, and the details that make a home both beautiful and livable.
At PKB
At PKB, I work closely with homeowners to transform their ideas into thoughtfully designed living spaces. I collaborate with clients throughout the design process, from initial concepts through design development, helping create solutions that reflect their goals, lifestyle, and vision for their home.
My focus is always on balancing creativity with practicality, making sure each design feels personal, functional, and well considered.
What’s Most Rewarding
What I enjoy most about my role is helping homeowners bring their ideas to life. I value the relationships built throughout the design process and love collaborating with clients to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
It’s especially rewarding to watch a project evolve from an initial idea into a finished space that enhances everyday living.
Outside the Office
Outside of work, I enjoy playing soccer, spending time outdoors, and making memories with my husband and our three children. Joe is also in the construction industry as a Project Manager, and we love working together on home and design projects, bringing creative ideas to life together.
Interior Designer
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.
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.
Project Developer
Nick Turochy
I grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and made my way to North Carolina to build my career in the construction industry. It's a path I found almost by accident, and one I haven't looked back from since.
Education
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Bachelor of Science in Building Construction, Virginia Tech
I arrived at Virginia Tech planning to study Chemistry, but it didn't take long to realize that wasn't the right fit. Having spent my high school summers working as a framing hand for a custom home builder, I already had a foundation in construction without fully recognizing it yet. Switching to Building Construction felt natural, and the transition into estimating and purchasing after college confirmed I had found my place.
At PKB
As Project Developer, I work behind the scenes to bring financial clarity to every project before construction begins. I create concept estimates early in the process to help homeowners understand what their vision will realistically require, conduct site visits with trade partners to gather bids during the development phase, and build the contract estimates that form the foundation of every project we deliver.
My work sits at the intersection of design and construction, translating ideas into numbers and making sure every project is set up for success before a single tool is picked up.
What’s Most Rewarding
I'm a numbers person at heart, and there's a lot of satisfaction in taking a homeowner's vision and working through the data to make it buildable and financially sound. What I enjoy most is the precision the work requires and knowing that an accurate, well-built estimate makes the entire project run better for everyone involved, from the client to the team in the field.
Outside the Office
When I'm not in the numbers, I'm usually outside. Hiking, camping, mountain biking, road biking, rock climbing, skiing, scuba diving, or exploring somewhere new. If it's outdoors, I'm in.
Selections Coordinator
LaShawn Thomason
Originally from Cleveland, Tennessee, I spent most of my life in Central Florida before moving to Asheville, North Carolina, in 2014. After several wonderful years in the mountains, I recently relocated to the Charlotte area in 2025 and am excited to be part of such a growing and vibrant community.
My passion for construction and design began at an early age while working alongside my grandfather, who was both an architect and builder. Those experiences sparked a lifelong appreciation for the building process and ultimately led me to a career helping homeowners create spaces they love.
At PKB
As Selections Coordinator, I help homeowners bring their vision to life through the selections process. Working closely with our interior designer, I guide clients through decisions on everything from flooring and cabinetry to lighting, fixtures, and finishing details.
My goal is to make the process organized, collaborative, and enjoyable while helping clients create a home that feels uniquely theirs.
What’s Most Rewarding
I love helping clients bring their ideas to life. Whether someone comes in with a detailed vision or just a few ideas, it's rewarding to help them navigate the process and watch everything come together.
Seeing a completed space and knowing we've helped create a home that reflects the people who live there is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job.
Outside the Office
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our blended family of five children and a daughter-in-law. I'm also an avid crocheter and love creating handmade gifts for family and friends.
When I'm not crafting, my husband and I enjoy traveling whenever we can, especially spontaneous weekend trips to the beach.
Project 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.
Field Supervisor
Dan Kenney
I'm originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and have called North Carolina home for years now. My path to the construction industry wasn't traditional, but looking back, it made me exactly the kind of Field Supervisor I am today.
Education
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Bachelors, University of North Carolina Charlotte
At PKB
Before I ever set foot on a job site professionally, I spent years in a middle school classroom. Teaching gave me a skill set I use every single day at PKB: the ability to communicate clearly, manage competing priorities, stay organized under pressure, and bring out the best in the people around me.
After leaving education, I discovered residential remodeling through flipping houses, and I was hooked. What started as a personal pursuit turned into a career, and I've been building ever since. As Field Supervisor at PKB, I'm the eyes and ears on every project, coordinating trade partners, keeping schedules on track, and making sure the work in the field matches the vision the client and design team worked so hard to develop.
Every detail matters on a job site. I take that seriously.
What’s Most Rewarding
There's something uniquely satisfying about watching a home transform. I've been part of that process from concept through completion, and it never gets old. What I find most rewarding is the moment a homeowner walks through their space and sees it all come together. That reaction is everything.
I also genuinely enjoy the people side of this work. Building strong relationships with trade partners, collaborating with the PKB team, and earning the trust of homeowners over the course of a project are things I don't take for granted. It's a privilege to be welcomed into someone's home and trusted with something that matters so much to them.
Outside the Office
Outside of work, my time belongs to my kids. Whether it's cheering from the sidelines, helping with projects around the house, or simply being present for the moments that matter, family is where I recharge. The same energy I bring to a job site follows me home, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
