ARDA 2026 is accepting submissions, and we want to keep introducing you to the talented professionals who will be evaluating this year's entries.

Today, we’re excited to introduce Curtis L. Showvaker, CPBD — a Certified Professional Building Designer and founder of Showvaker Residential Design in Greer, South Carolina. Curtis specializes in custom homes and major renovations, and brings something that’s hard to teach: over 50 years of combined experience spanning civil, structural, and architectural engineering design, alongside real, hands-on construction knowledge.

His career began in his family’s plastering business and grew to include finish carpentry, remodeling, kitchen design, and cabinetmaking. That background means Curtis doesn’t just design from a desk — he approaches every project from the standpoint of how it will actually be built. His work is defined by thorough, upfront planning that reduces surprises in the field and supports a smoother construction process for everyone involved.

Curtis serves clients throughout the South Carolina Upstate and Midlands, Western North Carolina, and select remote projects nationwide. We’re honored to have someone with his depth of real-world experience on the ARDA 2026 judging panel.

If you or your firm are doing outstanding work in residential design, this is your opportunity to earn recognition from judges who know what it truly takes to bring a project from concept to completion. Submissions are open now through June 8, 2026.

Submit your project and learn more about ARDA 2026 here: ResidentialDesignAwards.com.

Can’t wait to see your submissions,
The AIBD ARDA Committe

P.S. — Missed our earlier judge introductions? Meet judges George Zhange and Nayarit (Naya) Tineo.