At Red Barn, we don’t just design buildings — we create places where happiness lives.
But happiness isn’t a trend or a formula. It’s curated and personal: The shaft of spring light falling across your breakfast nook. Waves softly lapping through an open window. The comfort of knowing your space fits your life (and your car collection).
To design for happiness, we listen to our clients with true curiosity and find design solutions to the things that will make living better. Because contentment is defined by the people who will move through a space—not the ones who draw its blueprints.
When we design with people in mind, we create spaces that feel good to live in. We see ourselves as guides and collaborators, helping you define your own version of “happy” — then give it walls, windows, and a front door.
A founder-led practice.
At Red Barn, we believe a well-designed home has the power to enrich daily life. That belief is what inspired husband-and-wife team Ryan and Caitlin McShera to found the firm.
Today, Red Barn is a team of seven architects, designers, and interior designers. Every project is personally overseen by our founders, with our team working collaboratively across disciplines to bring each project to life. Depending on the project’s needs, we also partner with trusted consultants and specialists, bringing together the right expertise to deliver thoughtful, well-coordinated solutions from concept through construction.
Ryan McShera, AIA, CSL
PRINCIPAL + FOUNDERB.Arch., Boston Architectural College
Ryan is a registered architect with 25 years of experience building and designing custom homes throughout New England. A member of the American Institute of Architects and holder of a Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License, Ryan brings a rare perspective shaped by both the drafting table and the jobsite.
Ryan’s path to architecture began early—his father was a home builder, and Ryan quickly absorbed both the craft and technical aspects of construction. After five years working hands-on in the field, he enrolled at Boston Architectural College and went on to practice architecture across the North Shore. Before founding Red Barn in 2016, Ryan worked at several well-regarded firms specializing in custom residential design.
Today, Ryan is known for designing homes that are as thoughtfully built as they are beautiful. His deep understanding of construction allows him to make informed design decisions from the outset, balancing architectural ambition with budget, constructibility, and long-term value. Clients appreciate his ability to provide realistic cost guidance early in the design process and to advocate for their interests throughout construction, helping them invest with confidence while minimizing surprises.
Equally important is the trust Ryan builds along the way. He is a collaborative partner to homeowners, builders, and consultants alike, believing the strongest projects emerge from shared respect and open communication.
Outside the office, Ryan is active in the community, coaching Manchester Essex Little League and having previously served on the league's Board of Directors. He is also a former member of the Ipswich YMCA Board of Directors and currently serves on its Golf Committee.
ManagING PRINCIPALCaitlin
BA, Art History and Architectural Studies, Trinity College
Caitlin leads Client Experience and oversees our Interiors Program at Red Barn, ensuring every project is delivered with the same care, transparency, and attention to detail that define the firm's architecture. As Managing Principal, she oversees project management, client communication, and business operations, guiding projects from the first conversation through construction.
Her appreciation for thoughtful homes began early, growing up in a historic house that was continually being restored and reimagined. She went on to study Art History at Trinity College, focusing on architecture, decorative arts, and interiors, completing her undergraduate thesis on Shingle Style architecture. Before Red Barn, Caitlin built her career in museums, auction houses, and historic properties, where she developed a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, careful curation, and the stories homes carry.
Caitlin believes that designing a home should feel as rewarding as living in one. She is passionate about creating an experience that is collaborative, transparent, and deeply personal—one where clients feel heard, informed, and genuinely excited about the journey. For her, the most successful homes are those that feel deeply personal—reflecting the values, routines, and aspirations of the people they were built for.
Outside the office, Caitlin is a founding Board Member of Women Make North, a networking organization for women in architecture, engineering, and construction. She also serves as Vice President of the Friends of Essex Elementary and volunteers with Three Sisters Garden Project. She is a past member of Cape Ann Museum’s Community Engagement Committee.
Laying the foundation for our team are the values that drive everything we do.
We do what we say we’re going to do.
We work hard and take action.
We engage in our community.
We care about the natural world.
We support our collective wellbeing.