Thomas & Melhorn Architects is a partnership between two innovative and sophisticated design firms in Palm Beach County. After more than three years of collaboration together on numerous new residences and renovation projects, the second-generation builder Christian Thomas and the architectural office of John Melhorn merged studios in May 2016. Founded on a common philosophy of applying the demands of modern living and contemporary design with the principles of traditional proportion and craftsmanship, the Thomas & Melhorn union seemed all but destined.
Thomas & Melhorn together lead a well-practiced and skillful team of designers, architects, artisans and tradesmen to bring unbound creativity and possibility to each and every project. Both share a passion for exquisitely executed craftsmanship and a philosophy of simplicity as the ultimate sophistication. The team’s approach of working closely with an owner from start to finish – from how a site is handled and the structures are laid out to coordinating and integrating landscape, interior design, and finally the process of construction – consistently allows Thomas & Melhorn to create a comfortable timeless home uniquely suited for each client.
Christian Thomas holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Auburn University and spent years being mentored by some of the American South’s most respected sculptors, artists and architects. He had the unique opportunity to study Landscape Architecture, Drawing & Sculpture under the supervision of Jack Kehoe in Cortona, Italy, followed by an invitation to assist one of the foremost architectural and large format landscape painters, David Keith Braley.
John Melhorn received his Bachelors of Architecture from the University of Miami and has worked for and with numerous classical architects and designers in New York and Palm Beach. He established his original firm grounded by his passion for traditional architecture and proportion, with an appreciation of the classical vocabulary, historical precedent, and vernacular detail.
Thomas & Melhorn Architects’ work has been featured in numerous publications, including Palm Beach Homes and Lifestyles, The Palm Beach Post, Atlanta History Center’s Henri Jova: A Classical Intermezzo, Boca Life Magazine, and An Architect’s Life. Most recently, the two were recognized by the City of West Palm Beach Historic Review board for excellence in both the “New Construction & Infill Design” and “Historic Rehabilitation” categories for their work completed in the El Cid neighborhood.
