Architecture

We specialize in the design of distinctive residential architecture. Our work is well known for a blend of modern and traditional design, with a strong emphasis on the relationship between building and landscape, innovative use of interior and exterior space, well-crafted detail, and comfort of the occupants. In addition, we have continued to be involved in distinctive small scale institutional, commercial, and office projects, several of which have won national design awards.

As Maine architects, we have designed many coastal, waterfront, and vacation homes throughout Maine and New England, but we do not design in a particular style. Our way is to find out what interests our clients, what architectural languages they like and why, and use this information to develop a design for a building which is consistent with and true to the life it serves. The life itself: how buildings are used is at the center of it all. Bauhaus designer, Joseph Albers said, "I have found that all ugly things are made by those who strive to make something beautiful, and that all beautiful things are made by those who strive to make something useful." Paying close attention to how spaces will be used allows us to be efficient in how we design buildings and homes.

We look for every opportunity to overlap uses: the more a space can gracefully support different activities, the better. In fact, the less space constructed the better. We believe that the prerequisite for environmentally sustainable building and home design is to keep structures from becoming any larger than a client wants to have them.

We are committed to helping our clients find the best possible value in their projects. This includes exploring possible future changes in use: needs change as families and organizations grow, so spaces need to be flexible in their use and arrangement. Many materials and systems, while more expensive to purchase and install, may yield significant cost savings because maintenance and operating cost is low. Wherever possible, we believe strongly in building components that age well and are manufactured or harvested using environmentally sound materials and practices.