Christian Thomas, Principal
Christian Thomas apprenticed under and was mentored by some of the American South’s foremost Sculptors, Artists, & Architects while completing his Bachelor of Architecture at Auburn University. Nearing completion of Architecture school Christian had the unique opportunity to study Landscape Architecture, Drawing & Sculpture under the supervision of Mr. Jack Kehoe in Cortona Italy. Christian’s fascination with Architecture as a Comprehensive Art continued with an invitation to assist the South’s foremost architectural and large format landscape painter, Mr. David Keith Braley.
It was the uniqueness of these internships that led Christian to be the first hire of the Graduating Class of 1999 from Auburn University’s prestigious College of Architecture, Design & Construction. Christian was invited to join the progressive firm of Mr. Richard Pigford at ArchitectureWorks, PA located in Birmingham, Alabama. As a first year apprentice, Christian was given the roll as managing designer for the office of ArchitectureWorks, PA, as well as lead designer for the residential historic renovation for the CEO of Books-a-Million. Working and learning beside renowned interior designer Betsy Brown & accomplished Birmingham Contractor Stephen Dorsky, Christian was able to further his interest in a comprehensive design approach.
Upon completion of these projects, Christian took his talents to Amelia Island to pursue his love of Historic Sea-side Architecture where he was given the job of Project Manager for the Architectural firm of Beer Stauffer & Associates. Here Christian learned the task of marrying the necessary structural details with the delicate and open feel for Coastal Setting.
In 2001 Christian was asked by his father, an established South Florida builder, to join the family construction company. Upon accepting, Christian was determined to bring his knowledge of historic design and restoration to Palm Beach.
A decade later and after numerous Historic restorations, renovations & additions, coupled with new construction & unique projects, Christian took the helm of his father’s firm in 2011, changing the name to Christian Thomas Construction. Along with the name change, Christian gave the firm a new design-build approach, which has proved very effective; as Christian is now well-established within the community for providing a comprehensive package of design, detailing, & construction management.
Christian’s work has been inspired by his love of artisan craftsmanship, architectural history, and his early years of studying painting and sculpture in Italy. His adopted philosophy of “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” shows through in each project.
Mr. Thomas’ work has been printed in numerous publications that include: Palm Beach Homes and Lifestyles, where his own house was showcased, The Palm Beach Post and most recently the Atlanta History Center’s new book Henri Jova: A Classical Intermezzo; An Architect’s Life.
It is with the tools learned from education, apprenticeships and job-site training that Christian forges forward, creating a new line of the modern master builder.
INNOVATE DESIGN BUILD