that we might enjoy looking at the awards from the AIA and might find some inspiration there. Gary had won an award. I wrote down the names of award winners and then looked at their websites. Gary provided us with the nicest brochure of any architect we interviewed and we really liked his other completed projects. Did you have a vision of your home before you chose your architect? We had a vision of how the rooms in the home would be arranged; but, we had no concept of what the external part of the house would look like, or what the overall architectural plan would be. Gary held an inner-office competition to give us ideas. Each architect in his office, after visiting our site, presented us with their design concept. We took two of the proposals and incorporated them into the final product. We are thrilled with the outcome of the project. Gary’s creativity influenced every space in the house. Gary is good at listening to your thoughts and concerns, really hearing what you say, and implementing your wishes in a creative way the client could never image. What do you enjoy most about your home? We wanted a modern home that felt inviting, not cold like some modern styles. It’s amazing the number of people who have commented on how warm and welcoming the house is. We also wanted to bring the outside in and Gary accomplished this request beautifully.
You have a plan. Protect it.
What would you share with others embarking upon this process? Interview multiple architects after getting recommendations and looking at the AIA award winners. Pick an outstanding, highly qualified architect that shares your philosophy and give them the freedom to design something special. The less you tell them to do, the finer your project will turn out. ■ Diane Collier, AIA, is a direct sales representative with landscapeforms.
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