The term “modern,” when it comes to architecture, is a very fungible thing. Regardless of how you define it, the bottom line is that your custom home project should reflect your personal style. For some, modern is an aesthetic choice. For others, it means a home that performs to a high standard. So, what does modern mean to you? And how do you choose an architect that can get your vision exactly right?
Learn How to Articulate Your Style
What’s your style? Do you know? Many people don’t. In my experience as a modern home architect I have found, especially when working with couples, that there are a variety of style choices that speak to each individual. Finding an architect who is a good listener and has a structured approach to client engagement leads to identification of a cohesive style choice, clearer problem definition, and therefore cleaner solutions.
The alternative is to seek an architect known for his or her distinct style. Sometimes called starchitects, these professionals have built a career developing a niche in very specific cutting-edge design styles. Their work is impeccable, but you may sometimes find yourself surrendering your design choices to the architect’s opinion.
At Studio 314, we have a two-part thought exercise we use to help guide our clients at the beginning of the project to help them understand and agree on their style choices. This enables a smooth design process — it helps clients indicate exactly what they mean by “modern.” Some mean minimalist. Others mean contemporary. Others mean tech-enabled, and it has nothing to do with the aesthetics at all. This helps your clients uncover their true, ideal style and function preferences.
Consider Your Location
Where are you building your dream house? We’ve all heard the location, location, location cliché, but in this case, location matters because of physics. Things like temperature, rain and snow, wind, and other things like soil type all play a part in how your dream home can and should be designed. They affect not just safety, but also comfort, building performance, and longevity. In addition, your location may influence your aesthetics. If you want to stay true to the location and homes original to the area, you want an architect who is adept at blending the idea of a modern home with many different styles.
Location also matters, because there are a variety of local and state building and zoning code regulations that must be addressed. Having familiarity with the local customs, or having partners who are, can make a difference in the success of the project.
At Studio 314, we’ve built in just about every climate across the continental United States. We have worked with countless construction code officials and have built relationships with reputable builders in many markets.
Evaluate Based on Experience
No matter how talented you are, the fact remains there’s no substitute for experience. When looking for an architect for your custom home, spend some time to discover their depth of experience. This experience translates not only to an understanding of materials and methods, but also in dealing with builders and field conditions.
They say architects don’t do their best work until they are in their fifties. When I was younger, I scoffed at this. However, bringing together all the aspects of a building, including design, structures, site planning, lighting, mechanical systems, and materials and methods takes a lot of practice. This is all in addition to working with builders, municipal officials, and other design professionals.
At Studio 314, we have decades of experience in the luxury custom residential space. We have designed homes of all sizes across the continental United States with hundreds of repetitions working with builders, building officials, and other professionals. We know how to execute many different style preferences — and apply modern design principles to anyone’s ideal aesthetic.
Find the Right Architect
There are three primary ways to find your architect for your modern home project.
Referrals – Speak to people you know who have gone through the process. These people can not only speak about the quality of the design but more importantly how they got along with their architects.
Search results – Search online for key search terms that include your ideal style and location. Search results can lead you to web pages of qualified architects.
Connecting with builders – Working with high quality builders can ensure the successful execution of your modern home design. While speaking to friends and colleagues about possible architects also inquire about builders. Having a builder connect you with an architect will likely indicate a good builder-architect relationship
At Studio 314 we pride ourselves on our collaboration with builders. We feel it is important to the success of custom home projects to identify, and begin interacting with, the builder early in the design process. Get in touch and learn more about our services.
