The Value of Design

Smart Design Encompasses More Than Buzzwords

December 12, 2013| Awards, The Value of Design| Shannon Calder

Alvin Huang, AIA, Principal of Synthesis Design + Architecture, provided insights into issues the profession is facing and how small firm dive in and swim through them. This firm also garnered a 2013 Merit Award for Small Projects for their project [C]SPACEPAVILION. The jury loved the concept of the pavilion, particularly for how the project engages the public “in a smart and friendly way.” Something about the responses below mimics the jury’s belief.

What defines a great practice?
As a small firm that operates at the intersection of academia and practice, the firms that we look up to are those that are able to balance those two realms. Not so much in the sense of teaching and practicing, but in terms of engaging practice as a form of discourse. We truly believe that what distinguishes “architecture” from “building” is how projects relate to, or contribute to, the continuous evolution of the discourse that surrounds our profession and continues to push it forward. “Architecture” is much bigger than “building”. Professional and technical competence is critical, but should be subservient to an architectural vision that engages a wider vision or broader discussion.

In my eyes, the best firms are those that are able to synthesize a creative/critical vision with a high level of professional delivery/service and an acute business sense that highlights the value of their work both externally and internally. Too often as architects we do not value our own efforts in the same way that our allied disciplines do, and this trickles down from misaligned incentives in our contracts to the reliance on unpaid or underpaid interns. There is no such thing as sole authorship in design, and we need to embrace collaborative practices and value ourselves.

A great practice is able to find that balance between leveraging their own creative and critical stances within the discourse of architecture, alongside addressing the requirements of their clients and stakeholders to produce finely crafted results.

What was the defining point which inspired you to jump off and begin your own firm?

The defining moment for me, happened in the winter of 2010 when I was recruited to apply for a number of tenure-track teaching positions. I knew that I was interested in engaging academia, but also knew that I was not interested in being a full-time academic. I also knew that I did not want to try and start a practice as a part-time endeavor (while I was teaching). So, I took a big gamble and decided to quit my job and bet on the fact that I would land one of those positions while relying on the fact that we had enough in savings to support my family in the meantime. This allowed me to focus full-time on establishing a design identity for my new venture, and clarify for myself what the product I was trying to sell actually was. Luckily, following many months of defining and identity, networking, and entering unpaid competitions, I was not only able to land a couple of paid projects, I was also offered my current position at the University of Southern California School of Architecture. As a small practice, having that steady income to support myself and my family is invaluable from an economic standpoint, but also from the standpoint of having the continued engagement with the discourse of design.

What is the single biggest issue impacting the future of the profession?
This is a loaded question, and of course sustainability is the current buzzword that has to be addressed. However, I think sustainability is so big of an issue that it has become a base requirement, meaning it is now actually fundamental to the production of architecture. We don’t need to highlight it as a goal, just like we don’t need to highlight the fact that buildings should be structurally sound. Though we do need to make it an integral part of the design process, rather than an additive response.

I think perhaps the biggest issue that will impact our profession in the future is the actual value of the services we provide and the general perception of the value of design by the wider community. With current estimates speculating that nearly 85-95% of the built environment is not designed by architects, the embarrassing fact that architects are statistically proven to have the lowest rate of return on educational investment, and the continued declines in enrollment in architectural education, it seems to me that the future of the profession has to be focused on increasing the value or the perception of the value of what we are doing.

If you or someone you know wants to answer these questions on behalf of a small firm, contact Tibby Rothman, trothman@aiacalifornia.org, 916.367.3404.

This is Really Something

December 2, 2013| Awards, The Value of Design| Shannon Calder

There are very few places and very few moments where one can actually hear conversations about architecture and what it inspires. Which is exactly what occurred on November 14th— an evening specifically designated to celebrate the AIACC’s 2013 Design Award Program recipients.

University of California, Berkeley’s Wurster Hall hosted the reception. 100 lucky architecture students were privy to an insightful lecture presented by this year’s Firm Award Winner, Dreyfuss & Blackford. Lots of laughter and enthusiastic clapping was heard just outside the doors. Once over, conversations ensued amongst the students. Fortunately, the lobby space nearest the hall entrance doubles as an art display forum, which is where each winning project was exhibited.

“This is really something … how did they manage around that issue …” a group of three students asked one another while standing in front of the Hallidie Building photos. This merit-award-for-architecture winner first garnered questions, and then excitement when onlookers discovered was just over the bridge in San Fransico and therefore could be examined in person. (McGinnis Chen Associates, Inc. and Page & Turnbull, the team responsible, may want to be on the lookout for further questioning on the process and outcome by a select few Berkeley architecture students.)

However, excitement and admiration did not end with the inquisitive minds of students. Recipients themselves had the opportunity to congratulate one another and accept awards for a job well-done and a project well-conceived. From healthcare facilities to private residences to portable dining units—the gamut of recipients reached far. And let it not go unwritten that social, economic and sustainable qualities were also celebrated. Not only will the architect(s) and firms retain bragging rights, but nonprofit clients as well. It was a good night—smart design was celebrated, ideas sparked, hands shaken, backs patted, cards exchanged, wine glasses toasted.

AIACC Staff is already undertaking Design Awards 2014. Stay tuned for details regarding next year’s program, and be on the lookout for further insights into the winning entries on the website throughout the next few months.

A Firm’s Sound Advice

November 13, 2013| AIACA, The Value of Design| Shannon Calder

Because this 2012 survey reports almost a quarter of architecture firms nationally are sole practitioners, and more than 60% have fewer than five employees on their payrolls; and because 91 percent of architecture firms are considered small businesses by the federal government, the AIACC thought it appropriate to lend a website stage to the successful and thriving small firms.

A small firm by definition is 25 or fewer employees, and because of the abovementioned facts, must conduct their business differently than a larger firm.

Quite simply, large firms employ large staff able to produce large marketing campaigns. These firms have multiple offices, and hundreds of staffers. Often, the proprietor of a small firm is owner, operator, draftsperson, writer, artist, advertiser, marketer, designer, strategist, office manager, accountant. It’s just plain fact that a smaller firm will have to live by a different set of philosophies and rules by which one composes a successful portfolio of work. Any emerging professional new to the business and interested in starting their own firm, read on—this new feature speaks specifically to you. These are words from smaller successful groups, who have been around for decades, and are experts in building a solid reputation and clientele within limited budgets and constraints.

To set the stage and start things off right is the award-winning Sacramento-based firm, Dreyfuss & Blackford. They are the recipient of the 2013 Firm Award, and the answers below reflect why.

What do the best firms do to be successful?

Successful firms balance client expectations, design excellence, and profitability. Our firm’s best work is the result of meaningful relationships with clients who trust our ability to execute imaginative solutions to meet their needs. Design excellence is sustained by cultivating talented people. We share an unwavering commitment to discovering insightful, smart ideas that positively impact our client’s bottom line. We approach financial management conservatively knowing the economy is increasingly volatile. A well-managed, profitable business enables us to deliver our best service to clients, retain our talent and create places that are enjoyable for people to experience.

How do the best firms create a model for others?

Inspirational practices elevate the quality, integrity and value of our profession. Every project demands that we manage scope, schedule and budget. The best firms are able to produce beautiful, responsive designs while handling these inherent challenges. To build great ideas, we establish strong, collaborative partnerships with our clients, consultants and builders. Our work on very complex projects requires everyone on our team to contribute ideas that will make the outcome a success.

What defines a great practice?

Over the last sixty years, our profession has undergone significant changes. A great practice embraces opportunities to expand their creative services when new business sectors, technology and delivery methods emerge. Practices that demonstrate creative leadership are highly valued. They are able to effectively communicate their ideas in a clear, succinct manner that also generates excitement and appreciation for architecture. We are proud of our reputation for being excellent listeners. We ask intuitive, strategic questions and provide thought-provoking feedback during the design process.

The core of a great practice is a team of talented staff. Firms that are committed to mentoring younger generations of architects maintain the design quality, innovative thinking and leadership development needed for the future. Our office encourages involvement in the AIA and affiliated organizations. These activities help bridge the generation gap between promising leaders and seasoned practitioners. Our profession needs young people who are inspired, versatile and confident.

Reaching beyond the needs of our clients, we take responsibility for creating places that are good for people. Great practices integrate sustainability and resource conservation into their design culture. They engage in community and public-interest projects—projects that elevate quality of life and raise public perception about the value architecture brings to places people work, live, and play.

What is the history of Dreyfuss & Blackford?

After finishing his tour of duty as a WWII ensign on submarines, Albert “Al” Dreyfuss pursued an architectural degree and began working for the State of California. He met Len Blackford, another talented architect and designer, who soon became a great friend and neighbor. They both shared a passion for the clean, contemporary lines of the International style that was emerging from a booming post-war economy. Long conversations on the front porch inspired Al to start his own office in 1950 and explore the opportunities of bringing a modern design expression to the city of Sacramento.

What do you think is the single biggest issue impacting the profession in the future?

The Department of Labor has projected that there will be a 24% growth rate for our profession from 2010-2020. If this happens, many firms will not have enough architects to accommodate this work. Scott Timberg recently wrote a disturbing article for Salon magazine called “The Architecture Meltdown.” It echoes how the U.S. recession has decimated employment in our profession. Many architects have abandoned their practices and thus, changed careers. Students are deciding not to pursue an architectural degree when a quarter of current graduates cannot find work. We are optimistic the economy will recover—albeit slowly. When it does, there will be a smaller pool of skilled professionals to choose from and senior architects will need to step up their mentoring skills to keep the talent we already have.

Representatives from Dreyfuss & Blackford are slotted to give a presentation to students from 4 -5 p.m., Thursday in UC Berkely’s Wurster Hall. Anyone attending the 2013 Design Awards Celebration should feel welcome to stop in and listen to what this firm has to say about the Value of Design.

Another Fellow’s Contribution

November 8, 2013| The Value of Design| Shannon Calder

Most, if not all, who are elevated into the AIA College of Fellows have the common desire of giving back to their communities. After all, it is integral in the juried process of being inducted—the contribution to humanity heavily consider. These individuals take pride in their new title, but it speaks to an altruistic nature. Their new title of “FAIA,” does not serve to bolster the ego, but rather as a reminder, as recognition and validation, that the work they do is important and necessary. Principal of KHIT Architects, Thomas Brutting, FAIA, is no exception.

The former chair of the St. Anthony Foundation Board of Directors, (a nonprofit based in San Francisco whose mission reads “to feed, heal, shelter, clothe, lift the spirits of those in need”), described how profound the experience of being elevated into the College of Fellows was: “For me, it’s a culmination of years of motivation to create exemplary environments, advocating and moving toward culture change, in particular for seniors.”

Brutting, who specializes in multifamily and senior housing, was celebrated at his office with a party. “They gave me one heck of a great party and many of our clients, and others, attended,” he said.

As for the ceremony at the AIA National Convention, while it couldn’t be classified as “one heck of a party,” Brutting was moved. “It was particularly special for me that the founder of my firm, Don Hardison, was a past Chancellor.”

Another commonality shared within this elite group is the motivation this elevation instills. “It also signals to me the call to continue to work forward and strive for more,” reported Brutting. Striving and contributing more, the work never ends. Thank goodness for this.

Notes from the Second Floor – Episode 4

October 17, 2013| The Value of Design| Shannon Calder

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In Episode 4, Procurement is explored in further detail.

AIACC Residential Award Recipients Announced

October 16, 2013| Press Room/Releases, The Value of Design| AIA California

Sacramento, Calif.—Recipients of the 2nd Annual Residential Design Awards program were announced Oct. 10.

This year, with over 100 entries, the jury of three narrowed it down to 10 winners, though not easily. The jury worked under a self-appointed theme of sustainable designs that initiated rich growing thought and simple, livable environments that would challenge while also maintaining a livable comfort factor.

From straightforward and clean lines witnessed through the honor award winner Nick Noyes Architecture for their Healdsburg Residence, to strategic-yet-playfully-sophisticated affordable living structure Broadway Housing by southern California architect firm Daly Genik, all award recipients projects had some unique and dynamic attributes which made them stand out. Take a look to see what projects were awarded and why.

View the gallery here.

Honor:

Healdsburg Residence
Nick Noyes Architecture
DESCRIPTION: Located on Fitch Mountain with expansive views of the Alexander valley, this single family residence is composed of four iconic metal-roofed gabled wings that are connected by an open breezeway and transparent entry and passage zones fabricated from a steel window and door system.
QUOTE: “This is not a look-at-me kind of house. It’s so straightforward and clean. There are no high jinks and it’s so wisely done. I’d go stay there for a weekend.”

Broadway Housing
Daly Genik
DESCRIPTION: Broadway Housing provides low-income families on the westside of Los Angeles with affordable housing that is environmentally and economically sustainable. The four, three story residential buildings are clustered around a starfish shaped internal courtyard and every room in each unit has access to natural light and ventilation.
QUOTE: “There is a nice materiality to this program, given what is known about affordable housing constraints. It’s not so cacophonous. It’s playful and sophisticated.

Moose Road Residence
Mork Ulnes Architects
DESCRIPTION: The challenge was to frame three opposing views while also preserving native oak trees. Three fingers extend precisely between existing trees to capture views and are supported on stilts to avoid severing tree roots. Constructed on a tiny footprint and budget, the building creates harmony with its environment.
QUOTE: “Really good decisions were made as the object-in-the-woods. It’s modest and fits the site really well. It’s efficient yet luxurious and generous in a way.”

Cloverdale 749
Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects
DESCRIPTION: Cloverdale749 embodies a contemporary design resolution that balances urban growth with simultaneous concerns regarding density. Employing a strategy to increase land use and capitalize on zoning, the building realizes its maximum allowable size; Cloverdale749’s skin, in its nuanced yet bold simplicity, celebrates its complete volume.
QUOTE: “The plan has a looseness that feeds permeability; the layering is successful. Each move is well-calculated.”

Merit:

Occidental House
Dowling Studios
DESCRIPTION: This 2,000 SF custom home is nestled in an 8-acre site surrounded by redwoods, meadows and vineyards. The house serves as a second residence and weekend retreat for a San Francisco-based family. The indoor/outdoor living experience was a driving force of the design.
QUOTE: “There is clarity to this one, and is energy-efficient without wearing that as its only badge.”

Floating Bungalow
Bestor Architecture
DESCRIPTION: The floating bungalow, a house on the unique Venice walk streets, is a modernist contemplation on (and reinterpretation of) the working class bungalows that line those streets. A billowy white bungalow form floats above the pedestrian way, protecting the private areas while creating a transparent and open public zone below.
QUOTE: “The composition is very well-done. It’s a very polite house in its context; the composition very smart.”

Bal House
Terry & Terry Architecture
DESCRIPTION: Conceived for a retired couple, the open and accessible design integrates the living space with the rear garden to create a well-lit domestic extension. Comprised of two floating volumes, the addition formally designates the bedroom to the west and the main space (kitchen, dining, and media area) to the east. The two wings gradually diverge from the original structure to generate a glass-clad fissure in between. This void space pulls the garden inwards, injecting elements of the outdoors into the core of the house.
QUOTE: “The plan is great. The fact that it is extending an existing building is a good model.”

Four Concrete Houses
XTEN Architecture
DESCRIPTION: This project is comprised of 4 small houses on 2 flat lots. The houses will be built in “shotcrete” and staggered in order to maximize outdoor garden spaces. The plans and elevations respond to adjacencies and are open in one direction for gardens/ views, and closed in the other for privacy.
QUOTE: “This concept challenges conventional thought. The smart planning is a prototype to assist us in envisioning the simplicity perhaps growing richer. It’s more of a concept for planning strategy.”

The Q
Jonathan Segal Architecture
DESCRIPTION: The Q loft rental building is a seven story mixed-use building located in the then blighted area of Little Italy in downtown San Diego. This building creates an anchor to draw development north and revitalizes this portion of downtown San Diego. The core of the building was designed to have net-zero energy usage.
QUOTE: “A real sense of clarity; very voyeuristic and self confident. The transparency of the left side is stunning.”

Out of the Box
Schwartz and Architecture
DESCRIPTION: Beginning with a simple box-like plan—not unlike many recent prototypes for low cost, sustainable homes—a few subtle shifts in plan transform this single-family house from the typical into the site specific. The shape begins to physically morph with the push and pull of the surrounding environment, maintaining an economy of means while building stronger relationships to the landscape beyond.
QUOTE: “This project meets the criteria and fits into the collection of projects well. It adjusts itself to context in a modest and relatable way.”

Since 1982, the AIACC has celebrated outstanding architecture through the Design Awards program. The Residential Design Awards program proudly recognizes excellence in architecture and continues to celebrate the value of good design.

To view award winning projects click here.

For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Shannon Calder 916.642.1718.

Mission Accomplished

October 4, 2013| The Value of Design| Shannon Calder

Most can agree that there is something to the act of checking items off a list. And, when that list includes really large tasks and dream-fulfilling, the feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction are tenfold. Just ask Kurt Hunker, FAIA.

Hunker, Director of Graduate Programs and Graduate Architecture Chair at the NewSchool of Architecture and Design, had two aspirations and one dream in his life as an architect. “The first was to become licensed, which occurred long ago in Texas,” he said. “The second was to become a professor which happened more recently at NewSchool. The only dream I’ve ever had, though, was to become a Fellow of the AIA.”

The dream-come-true was so important to Hunker that he was forced to do something he would normally never do. “I missed NewSchool’s Commencement in order to attend the investiture.”

The Chair was beyond content with the ceremony at AIA National’s convention in Denver, Colo. “The ceremony was truly a pleasure. As officers of the College of Fellows said on more than one occasion, ‘It’s your day, so enjoy it!’”

Since moving to California in 1987, Hunker has also worked with Roesling Nakamura Terada Architects and Deems Lewis McKinley Architecture.

Hunker reported feeling a deep sense of satisfaction, and who wouldn’t? Invested into the AIA College of Fellows—check.

MDC 2013-In-Review

October 2, 2013| The Value of Design| Shannon Calder

“Virtually anything the human mind can imagine can be built.”
–Robert Ivy, FAIA, EVP/Chief Executive Officer, AIA (from the Welcome Introduction speech at Monterey Design Conference 2013

Today, many are back at their work spaces after completing an intense design marathon known as the Monterey Design Conference.

The biennial event, held September 27 -29 in Asilomar was home to more than 620 attendees who experienced an impassioned collection of 3-day sessions—sessions packed with inspiration, example, design and knowledge. The list of presenters moved beyond regional or national, but rather became an international playground of stimulation and insight.

First up for the opening session was Marlon Blackwell, FAIA, Founder and Principal, Marlon Blackwell Architect, Fayetteville, AR, who gave prudent advice on how we choose to perceive: “Don’t see the negative but rather a deep source of possibilities.” Granted, this was in reference to a particular project of his, but the sentiment is applicable to any design conundrum.

On display and presented were examples negotiated geometry, sophisticated play, ingenuity on a tight budget, and complex articulations of space. Projects ranged from extravagant to minimalist and always kept the environment, situation and client in mind.

The weekend ended with Marcio Kogan, Hon. FAIA, Director of studioMK27 in San Paulo Brazil asking “What Makes Your Heart Beat?” He is known for his special attention to details and finishes and was able to successfully marry the art of film and architecture as witnessed in his dynamic presentation which often brought out strong emotion in the audience—from hearty laughs to deep, affectionate sighs.

The collection of projects was analytical and thoughtful, and attendees were privy to the insights of inception and creation. “We locked the doors and blocked out the rest of the world,” said Robert Ivy, FAIA, EVP/Chief Executive Officer of AIA.

This conference embodied more than work; more than design. Emotional and professional connections were made; reunions conducted. And, as some participants were hugging their goodbyes in the parking lot, it became clear that this wasn’t a permanent farewell—they were overheard planning and synchronizing proverbial watches for MDC 2015. Deep sources of possibilities, indeed.

For those interested in a more visual and highlighted tour, check it out the AIACC accounts on Instagram and Twitter. To learn more about the Monterey Design Conference, click here. Be sure to visit the list of sponsors as well.