Search
Top

"I was most impressed with Group 3 Design's sense of cooperation, team spirit and by how easy it was to communicate with them. I walked away from the first meeting just thrilled. Nothing has changed that."
 - Peter O.

ABOUT GROUP 3 


Whether contemporary or traditional, formal or informal, the homes of Group 3 are known for their impeccable quality, genuine originality and serious architectural ambition. These traits have earned the firm numerous national awards as well as feature coverage in national, state and regional publications.

Group 3 was founded in 1986 on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, by Rick Clanton and Mike Ruegamer. The merger of their respective companies - marked the creation of an unusual design firm possessing award-winning strengths in both architecture and interior design.  Since its inception, Group 3 has built a strong, diverse professional staff of registered architects, interior designers, and support staff, each skilled in state-of-the-art design technology and the very best management practices in the industry.

Group 3 has supported numerous charitable organizations as well as sponsored local organizations throughout the community such as: the Long Cove Club Community Endowment Fund, United Way, Hilton Head Choral Society and the Hilton Head Orchestra.

 

PRINCIPALS

A specialist in residential single-family architecture, Rick Clanton is perhaps best known for his traditional styles, attention to detail and use of extremely high-quality materials. A 1978 graduate of Clemson University's College of Architecture, Rick is a member of the Institue of Classical Architecture and also serves on the Sea Pines Architecture Review Board.  In his personal life, Rick is actively involved in the local Hilton Head Rugby team and is an assistant coach for the High School team in Beaufort.  He is also a member of the Providence Presbyterian church and teaches the 4-6 year old class.  

With more than 20 years of architectural and interior design experience and nearly one million square feet of planning and design to his credit, Mike Ruegamer is one of Group 3's most award-winning designers.  His Group 3 responsibilities encompass all aspects of the architectural and interior design processes, including all services involved in the selection and procurement of interior finishes, furnishings and accessories.  A 1979 graduate of the New York Institute of Technology, Mike is a member of the Board of Architecture in New York State, Georgia, Pennsylvania and South Carolina. Mike is currently the Editor for the 9th year in a row of the SC AIA Magazine. You can view the lastest issue HERE.  

 

GROUP 3 PHILOSOPHY

Group 3 is nationally recognized for its award-winning design talent. Utilizing the best materials, practices and trade relationships, Group 3 provides discerning residential clients with world-class Architectural, Interior Design and Planning services that result in highly original, distinctive custom homes that reflect the unique personality and lifestyle of the owners.

Designing a truly Great Home is an emotional journey, a functional and creative challenge, and an awesome responsibility requiring a rare breed of designer. 


Group 3 initiates all projects with the guiding principal of "quality design with quality materials". Our homes embody a total design to naturally use less energy and resources. This approach creates a healthier and more comfortable home. 

The staff and principals of Group 3 never forget that client needs come first. Irrespective of the modesty or grandeur of a project, Group 3 possesses the in-house expertise to assist its clients every step of the way - from site analysis and space planning to architecture and interior design to landscaping and final décor.