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College of Charleston Rita Hollings Science Center front entrance

OUR TEAM

Elementary school cafeteria
Charleston County Emergency Operation Center front entrance

STEVE COE, AIA, LEED BD+C

PRESIDENT, PRINCIPAL IN CHARGE

A native of Melbourne, Florida, Steve graduated from Clemson University’s School of Architecture in 1991 before pursuing his Master’s Degree at the university, including studies in Genoa, Italy. Joining Rosenblum and Associates Architects in 1993, he ascended to partnership in 2001, assumed sole ownership of the firm in 2015, and recently welcoming Josh Caplea as partner in 2020. With 31 years of experience, Steve has left his mark on a diverse portfolio spanning residences, healthcare, education, historic restorations, and public safety facilities. As Principal-in-Charge and Lead Design Architect, he is intimately involved in all aspects of the firm's operations, directing and overseeing each project with expertise in local building codes, construction systems, and architectural design. Steve fosters a collaborative "team approach," earning him recognition as Architect of the Year in both 2004 and 2007 from the Charleston Contractor’s Association.

JOSH CAPLEA, AIA, LEED AP

VICE PRESIDENT, PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT

Josh, an Ohio native, joined the CCA team in April 2014, rising to partnership in 2020. With a breadth of design experience encompassing K-12 and Higher Education, Municipal, Healthcare, and Commercial projects, he is a LEED Accredited Professional renowned for his expertise in building sustainability. As a Principal Architect, Josh plays a pivotal role in the design process from conception to construction, guiding planning, programming, and design charrettes to ensure thorough analysis and practical solutions while engaging consultants and stakeholders.

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NATE BOYKIN, AIA, NCIDQ

 PROJECT MANAGER & ARCHITECT

Originally from South Carolina, Nate completed his Master of Architecture at Clemson University in 2012, following a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of South Carolina and a stint as a touring musician. He launched his architectural career in Brooklyn, New York, where he gained  experience in high-end retail architecture and interior design. Nate has worked with renowned global brands like Michael Kors, Chanel, Victoria's Secret, Theory, H&M, and Versace, and has served as an in-house design manager for J.Crew. Returning to South Carolina in early 2020, Nate now brings his expertise to CCA as a Project Manager and Architect. 

JERRY BALLINGER, AIA, LEED AP

SENIOR ARCHITECT

Caplea Coe Architects welcomed Jerry Ballinger, AIA to the CCA team in Fall 2019. Jerry is a registered architect with more than 36 years experience on a variety of project types including commercial, civic, higher education, K-12, medical office and multi-family residential projects.   He brings experience managing complex projects types such as performing arts center, veterinarian hospital and medical office buildings, a strong knowledge of code issues, and solid design sensibility, with experience on award winning projects.

CHRISTINE INABINETT

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER & SPACE PLANNER

A Charleston native, Christine had dreams of working in the design field from a young age. After graduating with a degree in Interior Design from Winthrop College, she went on to amass 12 years of professional experience in interior design and space planning by working as an interior designer for various commercial, residential and state projects. Christine joined the CCA team at the start of the 2022 year and will  assist on projects on interior design, space planning, and architectural support. When she's not bringing design visions to life, Christine spends her time playing pickleball and tennis and spending free time with her husband, adult children, and two dogs, Zoey & Max.        

BRANDON NELSON

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER

Hailing from Western Kentucky and shaped by Central North Carolina's landscape, Brandon's educational journey ignited his passion for design and innovation. Armed with an associate degree in CNC Programming and Machining, he pursued higher education at the University of Kentucky's College of Design, earning both bachelor's and master's degrees in architecture. In 2022, Brandon relocated to the Lowcountry, driven by his dedication to applying his architectural expertise to the unique challenges of the region. Beyond his professional pursuits, Brandon finds fulfillment in hands-on creation, utilizing advanced techniques like 3D printing to craft purposeful products that enrich communities and the built environment.

KATIE HARBAUGH

MARKETING & ADMIN COODINATOR

Born and raised in South Central Pennsylvania, Katie relocated to the Lowcountry in 2017 and soon after joined the CCA team. After graduating with a degree in Journalism from a small state school in Pennsylvania, she went on to work as a freelance graphic designer for non-profits and small businesses. With a passion for the arts, Katie brings a diverse skillset comprised of communications, graphic design, art and marketing experience. As the marketing and administrative coordinator, she handles all marketing materials, technical proposals and advancing the PR activities of the firm. Outside of the office, Katie is an enthusiast of long distance running, hands-on artistic projects, traveling abroad, and spending time with her husband and dog Toby.   

CAITLIN MANNION

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER

Originally from Crofton, Maryland, and raised in Summerville, South Carolina, Caitlin is a dedicated architect with a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Clemson University. Inspired by her father, an architect himself, Caitlin’s fascination with the field began early, driven by his blueprints and drawings. During her studies, Caitlin enriched her architectural expertise through a six-month internship while studying abroad, gaining valuable practical experience and deepening her design skills. Outside of her professional life, Caitlin enjoys beach walks, painting, and movie nights with friends, reflecting the creative and well-rounded approach she brings to her work in architecture.

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