Celebrating 15 Years of Christian Rae Studio: Our Journey Through Architecture, Light, and Legacy
A look back at the projects, people, and principles that have shaped our studio since 2010
This year marks a special milestone for us at Christian Rae Studio. 15 years of designing spaces that inspire, restore, and endure. It feels like the perfect time to reflect on where we started, the work that’s shaped us, and where we’re heading next.
Back in 2010, we launched Christian Rae Studio with the shared goal of creating beautiful, thoughtful architecture, interiors, and lighting come together as one. What began as a small studio rooted in collaboration and curiosity has grown into a practice we're incredibly proud of—one that has allowed us to work on projects that challenge, reward, and move us.
Our Beginnings: A Brief History of CRS
Our firm started when Rachel landed her first solo commission lighting design project in Scarsdale, NY. Working out of their home in Greenwich, she continued to forge new relationships and grow the company, always with the idea that Christian would join her full time.
Four years later, he did just that. The first entirely Christian Rae Studio designed project launched in 2015 and the partnership has continued to thrive.
Our Philosophy: Designed to Last
From the very beginning, we’ve believed that good design should stand the test of time. Not just in how a space looks, but in how it functions and feels.
Our Studio’s approach is centered around clarity, intention, and quality. Every project is holistically designed: Christian leads with architectural form and structure, while Rachel brings lighting and interior perspective into the mix. Together, we design spaces that are not only visually compelling but also support daily living in a meaningful way.
A Look Back: Highlights Through the Years
Over the past 15 years, we’ve had the privilege to design a wide range of homes—each one a unique reflection of the people who live there and the landscapes that surround them. A few moments stand out:
The Lookout House
in Easton, CT—a respectful expansion of a modernist home once owned by actress Anne Baxter. This project allowed us to merge the original character with a bold, sustainable update, maximizing natural light and connection to the outdoors.
Backcountry Estate
in Greenwich—a dramatic, elegant residence crafted for entertaining. The lighting design, materials, and scale of this home allowed us to truly lean into the balance of function and theatricality.
Riverside Residence
in Greenwich, CT— a blend of modern design and timeless elegance that features open, airy spaces that maximize natural light while offering a sense of warmth and comfort.
These projects, among many others, represent more than just finished spaces. They reflect our growth as designers and our deepening understanding of how people live and what they value in a home.
The Studio Today
We’re still a small studio by design. That allows us to stay hands-on with every detail and remain connected to our clients throughout the process. Over the years, our work has been recognized with multiple A‑List Architecture Awards, HOBI Awards (including 2023 Custom Home of the Year) and IIDA finalists, as well as features in publications like Metropolis, Dwell, CTC&G and At Home Magazine.
Our work would not be possible without the incredible team that supports and strengthens the studio every day. From design development to project management, each team member plays a vital role in transforming ideas into built form. Their creativity, technical skill, and support to craft help ensure that our vision not only lives on paper, but comes to life.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the next chapter, our commitment remains the same: to design with purpose, to elevate daily life through thoughtful detail, and to create homes that truly reflect the people who live in them.
We're excited to continue evolving, pushing ourselves creatively, expanding our reach, and staying rooted in the values that brought us here in the first place.
Thank you to everyone who’s been part of our journey so far. Our clients, collaborators, contractors, and friends. You’ve helped shape Christian Rae Studio into what it is today, and we can’t wait to share what’s next.
Here’s to the next 15 years!
— Rachel & Christian
Co-Founders, Christian Rae Studio
