By: Maria Williams
San Diego has long been a hub for architectural innovation, but few firms embody the spirit of creative transformation quite like CLTVT. Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, CLTVT, led by Christopher Slowey, has carved out a unique niche in the design and construction industry by rejecting conventional methods in favor of a more integrated, design-centric approach. It is a full-service commercial general contractor and construction management firm specializing in commercial renovations, with a focus on the food and beverage industry and creative adaptive reuse developments.
With its principle of marrying visionary design with practical construction, CLTVT eschews the conventional model of separating design and construction phases. “The old ‘design, bid, build’ method just doesn’t cut it anymore,” explains Chris. Clients don’t want surprises in their project costs, and neither do we.”
This forward-thinking philosophy has led CLTVT to embrace the design-build methodology exclusively. By involving its team from the initial design meetings, CLTVT ensures that every project is aesthetically compelling and feasible within budget constraints. This approach has proven instrumental in landmark projects such as the Lafayette Hotel. CLTVT’s integral role in the project’s design and construction underscores the company’s commitment to elevating San Diego’s architectural landscape.
Unlike many firms, CLTVT opts not to maintain an in-house design team. Instead, the company collaborates closely with local designers and architects, fostering partnerships that enhance rather than compete with local talent. This collaborative spirit extends beyond project initiation; CLTVT often receives referrals from designers seeking its expertise in translating conceptual designs into buildable realities. This approach enriches the creative process while ensuring projects align closely with client visions and financial expectations.
“We’re selective about the projects we take on,” notes Chris. “We look for challenges and opportunities to revitalize neighborhoods, as well as projects that further inspire our team.” This ethos has led CLTVT to embrace adaptive reuse projects, such as the Tremont Collective in Oceanside, in collaboration with Fabric Investments. By repurposing old mechanic shops into vibrant retail and dining spaces, CLTVT has revitalized previously overlooked areas, attracting a diverse mix of tenants, including internationally recognized brands and local favorites.
Beyond construction, CLTVT plays a pivotal role in curating tenant mixes that complement each project’s vision and enhance its community impact. This proactive involvement in project development underscores CLTVT’s commitment to holistic project management, from initial concept to tenant occupancy.
The company remains committed to pushing architectural boundaries while fostering sustainable urban development. “We seek projects that inspire us,” Chris explains, highlighting their dedication to projects that blend creativity with practicality, leaving a lasting imprint on San Diego’s evolving landscape.
As CLTVT looks toward the future, its dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and fostering community development remains unwavering. By consistently questioning established industry practices and advocating for forward-thinking, collaborative approaches, CLTVT is setting new benchmarks in architectural design and construction. The company’s focus on creativity and teamwork allows them to envision and execute projects that meet today’s demands and anticipate tomorrow’s needs. Through each project, CLTVT continues to shape and redefine the possibilities within the architectural landscape, driving transformation across the industry, one visionary endeavor at a time.
Published by: Khy Talara
