Denise Scott Brown, an American architect, planner, writer, educator, and principal in the Philadelphia-based architecture firm Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates (VSBA). Scott Brown was also married to Robert Venturi for 51 years!
As a husband and wife, the two worked well together and elevated their firm to international importance. VSBA are known for creating exciting/amazing places. As an architectural firm, they have avoided specializing in one project types. Instead, under the leadership of Venturi and Scott Brown, the firm has a portfolio of cultural institutions, health care facilities, renowned university buildings, and adaptations and additions to existing buildings. VSBA have a solid reputation for imaginative design work that is innovative yet disciplined! Clients find VSBA open-minded to the client’s philosophy, creative, and multi-disciplined group of thinkers. VSBA provides planners, programmers, graphic designers, and project managers.
One of Denise Scott Brown’s dictums is the following: “Architecture can’t force people to connect, it can only plan the crossing points, remove barriers, and make the meeting places useful and attractive.”
If you were actively looking for an architectural firm, what specifics in a firm’s credentials would you be looking for to realize your dream project? In other words, what do you want your architect(s) to be?
Jonathan Borosfky, Walking Man, 1991
Art 434-699 Topics in Contemporary Architecture/Art 
I would want them to be open-minded, innovative, and aware of needs. As time goes on, society’s needs change; my hope would be that architects keep that in mind as they work on their projects. I think part of an architect’s job is to serve the people. Yes, creativity is important and I often view architecture the same way I look at art, but it should also be of service to those who visit.
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Scott Brown believed that “Architecture can’t force people to connect, it can only plan the crossing points, remove barriers, and make the meeting places useful and attractive.” The firm holds a stance on what they believe creating spaces can influence emotions, serves its function, and provide pleasant visuals for the inhabitants. They have created magical spaces because they did not see restrictions as an issue but saw it as an opportunity to create more various types of projects. Their innovations show the imagination coming into reality and forwarding the step of a diverse design. The creativity will help the creation of something that is not only useful but also provide beauty into the world.
A firm must have a set of believes to have the determination to imagine and get the project done. A firm must know the opportunities into designing based on the clients dream and by incorporating that with their own creative thoughts. They must know how to show ideas right on the spot and provide a visual of what the client may want to see. An architecture firm not only thinks of what he wants to design based on what he likes but also incorporate ideas from the place and the culture of the community. They must analyze the site area to help them decide to realize the intent of the design. They listen and communicate to provide a clearer output of their design. The firm must think of innovations and provide client opportunities of the potentials of what the design can be. As an architecture student, I want a firm to have the same values as mine and can go in the same direction with ideas. A firm will serve and provide opportunities in the design and they also put their own input and signature to give the architecture more meaning.
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Scott Brown stated that “Architecture can’t force people to connect, it can only plan the crossing points, remove barriers, and make the meeting places useful and attractive.” I think this is a statement that can be applied to all forms of art. Art is something that cannot force people to understand or connect to it, but it allows everyone to look at it and interpret it as they see fit and how it connects to their own personal lives. This in turn, can help them connect to people who have similar responses to works of art. Architecture is another form of art on a much larger scale that works this way. While it cannot directly force people to connect, it can create beautiful, unique and stimulating locations that breaks down the solitude of strangers.
A strong and successful firm holds the beliefs that they are not only there to connect people but to provide a positive impact on the world, whether that be through visual, structural or innovative work. A firm needs to have a sense of integrity and balance creativity with business, as the two sometimes compete with each other in the corporate world. It is important to have a this balance that creates projects that are done on time, efficiently, and properly, while still allowing artists to maintain their level of creative freedom and innovativeness.
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One of my favorite quotes about architecture comes from Venturi who is mentioned above when he said, “when circumstances defy order, order should bend or break;anomalies and uncertainties give validity to architecture.” Thus, If I were searching for an architecture firm it would be somebody that thinks outside the box and searches for answers to difficult problems, because I believe architecture is about complexity. A former boss of mine used to say “an architect should know very little about a great deal.” Thus, I’ve always believed that an architect should be an expert in everything and nothing at the same time. The architect I would look for would be somebody who gives me a reason to move around a space, rather than a person who forces me to move around. Architecture in that respect becomes art, as it becomes a form of blending the visual and spatial experience where one moves through a set of experiences that make you want to be in a space. After all, the building will only go as far as the people who experience it, enjoy it, and thus feel a need to maintain it. Therefore, I would select a firm that mirrors my belief in complexity; complexity of spatial arrangements and complexity of creativity.
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The architect I would want, would have to be experienced in change, and be very educated in that matter. Like learning to adapt to the modern world. Seeing how this is a topic of LA, I would NEED them to over analyze everything about the city and what comes with it like the ins & outs of traffic and people who tours the areas. I want the process of creativity to be extraordinary. Lastly communication is an important necessity.
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While attending architecture school, I have heard a lot about Denise Scott Brown and the work she accomplished with her husband and partner, Robert Venturi. I have always been very inspired by the two of them! Denise Scott Brown stated that “Architecture can’t force people to connect, it can only plan the crossing points, remove barriers, and make the meeting places useful and attractive.” I agree with this statement.
If I were actively looking for an architectural firm, the specifics in a firm’s credentials I would you be looking for to realize your dream project would be a firm liked VSBA. I think it would be very nice to contract a firm that is reliable, accredited and that has recognition for its work. I would want my architect to be some of the things I learned in architecture school. We learn to be receptive, incorporate thoughtful spaces, create experiences, be mindful of materials and sustainability aspects. I also think that an architect should be creative and innovative, so this is something I would seek if I was looking to realize my dream project.
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If I were actively seeking an architectural firm, I would look for one similar to one like VSBA. Specifically, one that is experienced in a multitude of projects that aren’t necessarily alike. I would seek a firm that has the ability to collaborate, bringing creativity and vision to the project that compliments my own ideas about the space. They would also be knowledgable about the community and culture of the area in which the building was being built to be able to create a space that is ideal for the community members. I would want them to be environmentally conscious. Additionally, finding a firm that designs a space that flows organically and smoothly from one area to the next so that nothing feels uncomfortable, forced, or out of place is very important.
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If I were seeking an architectural firm for a project I would be most interested in their understanding of how architectural elements impact the wellbeing of the community (for example, accessibility, social spaces, environmental elements) and elements that provide efficiency for the people who are going to be using it most. I would also be interested in a firm with a background in sustainability and ecologically conscious projects, such as energy efficient and net zero buildings. All of this would need to merge with a solid focus on creating aesthetically pleasing and innovative buildings.
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If I were actively looking for an architecture firm, I would try and research one that is accredited, trustworthy, creative, and innovative in their discipline. They must be able to adapt to the changing times, while ingraining the existing arts and cultures in their works. I find pleasure in looking at buildings that stand out from the rest like a jewel in the midst of a sand dune. A firm that could think creatively like that without ruining the culture that surrounds the area would be the ideal for me. It is important for an architecture firm to be well-rounded and easy to communicate with as to help you bring your vision to life.
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I love that quote! “Architecture can’t force people to connect, it can only plan the crossing points, remove barriers, and make the meeting places useful and attractive.” I think this is something that is so true when designing structures for humans to interact in. So often do we see architecture that is too forced or closed off. I think architecture should be free-flowing and open to allow free interaction like Brown states.
If I were seeking an architectural firm to design and engineer a structure for me, I would first want to take a look at their previous work to see if I liked their designs. From there, I would want them to have a vast knowledge of architectural design fundamentals, building materials, structural integrity, site planning, and the ability to collaborate with the person they are working with. They would have to be ethical, family-friendly, and use organic materials. In terms of the design, I would want them to create something that is well structured but organic and free-formed at the same time. There is something beautiful about architecture that is open and airy.
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If I were actively seeking an architectural firm, I would like their ideologies to fall in line with what the future holds. I trust any creative that thinks far into the future and how the environment and structures can intertwine or be symbiotic. For instance, Neri Oxman from the MIT design lab, is known for architecture that combines biology, computing, and materials engineering. Her structures may not be particularly beautiful, but the way they interact with nature and depend on biological processes is what’s most intriguing. Although this example isn’t necessarily a design firm, the ideas and abstract artistic qualities that the MIT design lab exhibits are characteristics I would seek out in established architectural firms.
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Every spring semester in my undergrad, the school of architecture would host internship fairs – so I frequently think about what kind of architect i’d want to be in the future and what kind of firm aligns with my goals. For me, I move away from trying to apply for large architecture firms and am drawn to the smaller firms. I find it that i’m able to learn more in smaller firms because there is more opportunity to connect with the people that im working with (and there’s much less of a chance ill be stuck as a CAD robot in a bigger firm). For the past two summers, I’ve work for an architecture firm with about 50 people – and thats including the principles and summer interns – and every person I worked with played a big roll in the projects they we assigned to. They took responsibility of meeting with people and getting in contact with consultants and were able to add to discussions of the project regarding its design. Bigger firms aren’t always the best because they can be really impersonal.
Scott Brown saying that architecture can’t force connections but instead help bridge and support them, is the kind of architect i’d want to be working with. I think a firms credentials are one thing, but it’s another thing to see how architects really connect with their clients and try to understand their needs and how to exceed them. Looking at projects that the firm I worked for, they do months of historical precedent research and talk a lot with clients to really understand what the project needs and how the project can be reflective of the history of the site. Architects that are just “oh you need this and this for this big building? cool we’ll do what you want and be done” then send it off to their employees who’ll plug everything into revit or cad and be done for the day, that’s not the kind of Architect i’d want. Its too robot and absolutely too cold – there’s no connection to the people and its just so bland (it may look cool yes but it doesn’t necessarily mean its good architecture). You’d really want an architect to be able to understand more than the necessities that make up a building; a good architect is one who understands how people work and thrive in the settings we establish for them. From there, how can we support those people and give a nod to the context of site.
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If I were actively looking for an architectural firm, I would first need to decide their stylistic choices of previous projects. I would want their work to closely relate to what I see myself creating for the future. The kind of standards they set, because I would want my work to be backed by a firm that holds up the the same high standards. There are so many different firms with creative, unique ideas. It would need to be firm that chooses to create the kind of buildings I would be interested in building. Are they creating skyscrapers? Is this the style of building I want to create with them? Are they residential or commercial? Personally, I would want to find a firm with a strong female work force. I think this is a male dominated industry, so I would want to work with a firm that supports me and my ideas as a woman.
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In reading the philosophy of VSBA, “our work is imaginative but disciplined, innovative and fun”, I found myself searching for the same qualities in a firm. The impressive portfolio of Venturi and Scott Brown inspired me to always be open-minded while connecting to the client to meet their design goals. I strongly believe in vernacular architecture and place-based design which would be the first characteristic I would examine while searching for a firm to realize my dream project. A firm that constantly involves the community has a meaningful impact on every design decision since the well being of the culture is kept in mind. In the modern world often we lack the sense of culture by constructing buildings that can be placed in any other city without analyzing the context or site. I would want the firm to push for the distinct qualities of a design that are directly a response to the local environment, materials , culture, and history of the place. and As an architect, I would expect to be challenged in complex situations to develop unique solutions. Once in a presentation, a designer mentions that “an architect that knows how to search for the answer to a problem can be more valuable than the ones that know the answer.” In other words, I would want to be surrounded in a workplace by people who are problem solvers and can propose innovative solutions.
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If I were looking for a “dream” architectural firm, I would look for a firm that first has a proven track record. A record of already withstanding businesses, facilities, real estate, etc. In the general sense, in purpose of design I would want a firm that can come with creative solutions to complex problems. Whether it is limitation of space, demographic, business model, clientele wants/needs, etc. I want an architectural firm that can accommodate to those needs in a recognizable identity. In terms of a specific aesthetic that I would want from an architectural firm, I love modern, open, and expressive geometric design. I feel like light, especially natural light, is an incredibly important aspect to consider when designing architecture and I would want a firm that knows how to work with light and create designs that allow natural light to flow in in the most natural way possible.
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To be able to bend what already works – into something better. When it comes to architecture, I don’t know too much about it other than it needs to be functional and stable. But seeing all of the unique places that have come into existence because of the predeceasing inspirations have brought something that can only be truly enjoyed when you are physically in its presence. Works like these require two things, discipline and innovation. The knowledge and learning of a skill or practice requires things to be done correctly for the quality to be at its best. The application of a better solution that can inspire, change, or even surpass what has already been established as the standard. It’s important to me that quality is upheld but innovation is also encouraged and never looked down upon.
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The basic credentials that I would like to see in an architecture firm are Registered Architect RA, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, LEED, and a certification such as CSI, The Construction Specifications. What I would be looking for in an architect is innovation in material or design to better support green energy.
Open space and lighting would be another one of my concerns. I enjoy many windows, but if not adequately insulated, it can cost quite a bit on heating and cooling, which is not environmentally friendly. I would also want a firm that would be willing to listen to my needs and create a piece of functional art for my needs—having something that is nicely designed but not functional does not work, such as The University of Alaska Museum of the North. As a high school student, I had to take several felid trips to UAF’s museum, and although that exterior design is gorgeous, it had little to no space inside for a functional museum floor.
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One specific credential I would look for in an architectural firm would be their ability to be as carbon-neutral and ethically sourced as possible. I would also want them to be really experienced with adding gardens on rooftops in order to give people a chance to have a sustainable way of life.
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Let’s imagine what my project would be: I want to build an art gallery with an attached theater and performance space, as well as space for administrative offices. The New Museum in NYC is a larger scale version of this, but I don’t like how its theater is hidden away. How could the spaces be arranged to give them equal weight while maximizing usability? I would also want to make sure that the building’s exterior fit into the architecture style of the surrounding neighborhood, becoming a part of the community rather than apart from it. I would need a firm who could approach these requirements creatively while making the space seem like a natural fit for art experiences with lots of space for staging and movement.
I like Denise Scott Brown’s dictum that architects should work to “remove barriers, and make the meeting places useful and attractive.” I would need to find a firm who could match this philosophy!
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If I were actively looking for an architectural firm, I would want a professional and well-researched firm that has already worked on different projects in the past. The architects must be communicative and willing to make my dream project into a reality instead of changing it completely from the original idea or concept. It would be the bad if my dream project turned out to not be mine at all. I have also heard of stories about impressive buildings that turned into disasters and failures because of oversight, cutting corners, or using building materials that are not suited to withstand the weather of the area. This led to many preventable deaths or buildings just falling apart. So, the architectural firm must be one that puts in a lot of time researching the location, materials, and plan with these details in mind.
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When looking for an architectural firm for my dream project, the firm’s credentials would need to be sustainable, innovative, and original creative design ideas. I would want my dream project to be sustainable, so I would want the firm to have some kind of Leed certified or living building challenge within there portfolio. In addition, I would want the architectural firm to have their own style, think outside of the box, and go against the traditional architectural design norms. The architects must be able to adapt quickly, be able to draft multiple concepts, and find design solutions when problems occur. These are the main credentials I would be looking for in an architectural firm to design my dream project.
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My vision of a perfect project must consist environmental sustainability, artistic aesthetics, and being mindful of gatherings. An architectural firm with a knowledge of sustainable materials would be first in priority. Like using claimed lumber and recycled copper, then figuring out how to make it aesthetically pleasing with other renewable resources like energy. When art is a big part of architecture it becomes a place where people absorb it differently or more possible to have a special memory and be unforgettable. It would make people want to see every angle in its interior and exterior. If space was carefully thought out, it would have areas that people could socialize and be with one self. Especially during Covid this will keep everyone at an appropriate distance.
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An architects task is to deliver a project that is well designed and one that creates a sense of space and purpose. Through the articulation of design, the team can then assemble concepts to fully comprehend a projects potential. I think when selecting a firm for a dream project, you should not only focus on credentials, but more importantly how the firm treats the “process”. A firm should look to establish a working relationship with their client, that continues to evolve as the project develops. It is the task of the firm to translate the ideas of their clients using their expertise in design and function. This is where the architect will find opportunities to incorporate their take on the project, merging the issues raised by the client. It is mentioned that VSBA has a “reputation for imaginative design work that is innovative yet disciplined.” Incorporating such fundamentals will make a firm stand out from the vast options. Overall, I would look for a firm that is invested in each project, delivering solid and innovative results.
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If I was looking for an architectural firm, I would look for a firm that is innovative, mindful, educated about the area, and know how to adapt. The building would need to feel welcoming and allow people to enjoy the space and surroundings. Architecture is a large part of what attracts people to certain regions and areas. So these buildings are meant to attract others and make them want to enjoy and further explore the space as the architects develop and adapt to the modern world.
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First and foremost, when using a professional architectural firm I would look for accreditation. Before we get into the artistic aspects, as a practical person, I would need to see the firm’s credentials regarding safety, client review, reliability, accomplishments, etc. From a business perspective, I would need to know that this is a legitimate operation. With that, I would also need to see their ability to understand the vision of what is being asked. For instance, since this class is focused on L.A. architecture, if we were building something in L.A., this firm would have to have knowledge of city regulations, weather patterns (for instance if a place had earthquakes, they would need measures for resistance to that), and community. Then going more into the artistic side, I would want an architect who could put together my vision. An architect should be able to reproduce the vision of their client while also offering ways to make that vision more brilliant than originally imagined. I feel that they should have the knowledge and creativity to take an idea, add, and expand to what a client is looking for to give them what they could not come up with themselves. Overall, professionalism, passion, and craft are all qualities I would look for in such a firm.
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If I were actively looking for an architectural firm, I would want to ensure that their designs were practical, sustainable, safe, innovative and aesthetically pleasing. I would want my architects to be able to create spaces where design makes sense and is utilized to its fullest potential. I hate wasted space or space that is awkward. Sustainability is big on my list because I certainly believe that we have a lot of responsibility to care for and protect the environment. There are many ways in which architects can harness and work with the environment to create sustainable design. For example, using natural light to save on electricity, choice in insulation/glass types to improve internal temperature control, and of course alternative methods of power (solar, wind, geothermal, etc). Safety in a space seems obvious, but I think that certain areas can be dismissed or forgotten. Safety in a space must consider all people, ages, genders, and abilities. I work on campus and am often upset when buildings lack updates to be ADA accessible or have blatant hazards (sharp edges, broken pavement, etc). Lastly, innovation and aesthetic value go hand in hand. I want to see architecture that is new and interesting. I am one for simplistic, modern, and clean designs, (like in the Bauhaus movement) but I definitely appreciate a space that pays homage to some Gothic or ancient Greek architecture. I think this attention to detail makes it known that the designer is well versed and it makes architecture notable.
-Martha Hall
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If I were actively looking for a firm, I would be on the search for people that I connect with and share a vision with. I would want my architects to be just as motivated and excited about the project as I am and ready to share new ideas. I would love to make homes for other people, it is such an intimate setting and space that brings me a feeling of comfort and happiness. Creating a space where other families and people experience those emotions would be my dream project. With that in mind, I would want to focus on creating spaces that focus on utilizing every square inch for a reason. Every room in a building should have a purpose, even if it’s something like the bathroom or a pantry. There are always effective ways to turn an average space into a multi-use or more productive space. I would want to focus on sustainability and making a house that is energy efficient using insulation, natural lighting, etc.
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If I were to seek out an architecture firm, I would look for one that is known for being innovative and creative with spaces, but doesn’t opt for being flashy when it serves no purpose. I feel like a lot of modern architecture has a a habit of blindly following trends, or just mashing up unrelated design elements. Outdoor spaces are important to me, as well as utilizing a space to its maximum potential. Comfort, ease of use and clear movement throughout the space are also must-have elements. I would look for a firm that makes their spaces accessible and hopefully as sustainable as possible. I would want them to create a building that is mindful of the surrounding area, so as not to create something that feels out of place. Additionally I would look for a firm that designs buildings that are appropriate for their intended use, not ones that feel like they are trying too hard to be something that they’re not.
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I would seek an architect firm that has a track record of satisfaction from clients. I would want someone that can align their vision with mine with the ability to break from trend or previous design tendencies. Adaptability would be crucial in working together to achieve a vision outside of individual realm of possibility. I am sure architects cringe at the idea of a client that wants to play a large role in the process but also I think most artists and designers would not leave a personal project entirely up to another creative mind. I would also seek someone that efficiently uses space. I struggle with the idea of a building having large amounts of under-utilized space. I find efficiency beautiful and satisfying.
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If I were to look for an architect for my “dream project,” I believe that I would want someone with experience, someone who is able to see the vision that I may have for the thing that I am working on. Most of all, however, I want someone who is creative, but also realistic. Someone that can think outside of the box, but also be able to work in such a way that is feasible. Maintaining budget, getting the most of what we have, and overall keeping within the boundaries that are set for said project. After all that is set in stone, I want the architect to then perform in such a way that continuously keeps me in on what is happening; to value the customer, and to see them as almost like a partner to make something beautiful.
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In my opinion, if I were actively looking for an architectural firm for my dream home, the firm’s credentials would need the ability to specialize in the style I am trying to obtain for my dream home. In learning about the husband and wife team of the Philadelphia-based architecture firm Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates (VSBA), who are known for their creative and exciting/unique places, I agree that they need to have the ability for different forms or styles. Now, if building or redesigning a structure for me as a company was the issue, VSBA would be my 1st choice. Hiring a firm for my dream building being used by many diverse inhabitants, with the firm’s solid reputation for unique design work that is cutting-edge yet discipline in making the meeting place useful and attractive, is the first reason. Having planners, programmers, graphic designers, and project managers at the ready and in-house is critical and helps keep the cost down, and the project flow more smoothly is the second reason. Knowing that VSBA has a portfolio of cultural institutions, adaptations, and additions to existing buildings and VSBA’s would be the third reason, making them the right choice for me.
CeCe Kay
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In my opinion, if I were actively looking for an architectural firm for my dream home, the firm’s credentials would need the ability to specialize in the style I am trying to obtain for my dream home. In learning about the husband and wife team of the Philadelphia-based architecture firm Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates (VSBA), who are known for their creative and exciting/unique places, I agree that they need to have the ability for different forms or styles.
Now, if building or redesigning a structure for me as a company was the issue, VSBA would be my 1st choice. Hiring a firm for my dream building being used by many diverse inhabitants, with the firm’s solid reputation for unique design work that is cutting-edge yet discipline in making the meeting place useful and attractive, is the first reason. Having planners, programmers, graphic designers, and project managers at the ready and in-house is critical and helps keep the cost down, and the project flow more smoothly is the second reason. Knowing that VSBA has a portfolio of cultural institutions, adaptations, and additions to existing buildings and VSBA’s would be the third reason, making them the right choice for me.
CeCe Kay
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My dream architect firm would have to be younger or atleast be open to new ideas. There are a lot of buildings and office spaces in Portland that I can see myself being in. An open floor plan that is divided with structural utilities are so interesting to me. The space has to be created with the idea that creatives need to be inspired by their environment. Inclusion of nature and sun and other factors are a must. Super flashy elements are not important but the use of space is. The firm also has to be open to my feedback, I have a small background with architecture as I won a design contest in high school for the American Institute of Architects. I feel like I would be able to add great feedback or ideas to any project.
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In architecture I would seek modern clean architecture, minimalism, whites, silvers, gray, black, and accents of deep red. I enjoy sleek, modern, with attention to detail. Architecture I enjoy contemporary and innovative, open space plans, with attention to fine details. So in short I would be inspired by renaissance meets modernism. Columns, supports, repeating simple motifs within window columns, and the molding would be a bit more ornate. Large, bold, and tall, with smooth arches, vaulted coffered ceilings, as if palace of Versailles had simple solid toned walls, gray flooring, and more simplistic drapery. I also would want more natural lighting, as well as planning of window boxes for botany to bring some more life and greenery to the sterile environment. Furniture would be simple shapes, clean design, small details in limited areas. This would be my ideal vision of what I would like to see in a firm for understanding. ( I used to work in interior design in creating multi million dollar spaces in all types from modern to Barbie meets louis 14th with Swarovski crystals dripping and glued on everything )
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I would want my architects to be opened minded and accepting of ideals and thoughts that are not their own ones. I would want them to be open to changing the mold that they were put in and even break it to bring more people together. I wouldn’t want them to go too far from the realm of possibility and help me and give feedback to my ideas as well as the future of our partnership. I would want the relationship between the to of us to be like friends more so than business partners. I want to create beautiful things for people to enjoy and experience for years to come.
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I personally like modern, contemporary, and Bauhaus architecture style. I believe that different people, societies, cities, countries and cultures have different architectural styles. Therefore, people need different architectural styles depending on their location. I would want an architect to be creative and to solve different problems in the different regions. For example, an architect can build a house in Las Vegas following Nevada’s architectural needs. If the architect’s build a house in Virginia, there are different architectural styles and people need different styles of architecture. I want an architect to follow the region’s architectural style. Although, architecture can be dramatic and contrasting the surrounding environment. It all depends on the purpose. If it is for a creative project. I totally support creativity!
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If I were looking for an architectural firm I would want one with an extensive portfolio, also one that is open minded. To expand on this thought I would like if the firm not only had quality architects working on the project, but also incredibly skilled engineers or business men in the field. I am not a perfectionist, but I know what I want when it comes to working on a project. I want people to perform to the best of their ability in order to get a task done efficiently while producing something of high quality. I would look into firms with a good history, one that treats their employees correctly and one that is considerate to the every day person. I don’t want to be backed by just some faceless mega corporation, I would like an architectural firm with soul and personality.
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If I were in a search for an architectural firm, I would look for one that is versatile, creative, and considerate. I would also want them to be open-minded and to carry problem-thinking skills for any kind of situation. I am trusting that this firm would innovative while working on a project while also being realistic and to be honest about expectations and to be sensible. One thing that would be important to me would be the firm’s ability to make a building flow in harmony with the environment. I think one gets carried away with his/her ideas, and I would trust that the firm would offer the best solution while keeping my feelings in mind.
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If I was looking for an architecture firm, I would honestly look for a firm that focuses on green architecture. I love the idea of living in nature and working with it, and finding ways of building that suit the environment in which one lives in. Like, a house that exists in Las Vegas should not be built in the same or similar ways as, say, Los Angeles. The buildings would have to be made with the weather and structures in mind. Low pollution output, use of heat and sun as a source of energy…I would love if those were explored.
For extra creditentials, I would want to see that they do in fact focus on sustainablilty.
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The dynamics of architecture are a lot. Architecture lives and changes with age; every architect should follow these changes, developments, and innovations. They should pay attention to research, articles, and seminars and respond to these needs by keeping the period’s pulse. On the other hand, I prefer to implement innovations without fear and take risks. It is essential to remember that architecture is also technical, to get stronger with specialized knowledge and increase the equipment. A good architect must, first of all, be a reasonable observer. The architect should be an individual who examines, interprets his environment, and at the same time, has a strong sense of scale. Companies that are dynamic and open to learning have high questioning skills and, at the same time, can look at the issues in a versatile way are always one step ahead for me. It is also significant that they have a high level of coordination and analytical thinking skills and clearly define their goals.
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If I were looking for an architect/architectural group, I would look for someone who can identify my needs and come up with solutions. I would also like to see a wide range of styles/types of buildings they have done, to show me they are flexible with their designs and can do most anything. I love many different types of architecture but I would like to see how they can combine style with needs and wants. If I needed a building designed, I would like something that is unique, but would also stand the test of time by not becoming outdated too quickly. An architect/architectural group that also focused on eco friendly architecture would be ideal as well.
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If I were looking to contract architects I would for sure want them to have an open mind to the ideas and wants of the client…(me!) I would also like to know that they have the experience and skills to work in whatever style or theme I would be looking for. I would not mind working with an emerging architect, as everyone needs a chance to get their start somewhere. So, I am not too worried about things like seniority or years within the profession. Being that I am myself am not an architect, but rather a photographer, I am not too sure what else is vital to ask of and know of from an architect. If I think about it I guess would like to know that they are also reliable and able to work on schedule, whether I or them set it up.
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I’m not very much an architect, nor do I have too much of a mind for it. However, from my current knowledge I believe I would definitely love to contract architects that put practicality first with style second. I would like them to be the types to realize that something should be in working order first but look pretty second. People who have that kind of personality I usually admire because it means they create to help peoples quality of life a little better rather than just making something for sake of a statement or personal message. Their credentials definitely must possess a high certificate of quality when it comes to those areas that I’ve mentioned.
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If I were looking for an architectural firm, I would look for credibility, reliability, and adaptability. These are the factors my architects should have. The reason why I want credibility and reliability is because I would be comfortable knowing that they know what they have to do and how to do it. I don’t have to worry mostly about them messing up or doing something for the worse. The reason why I choose adaptability is because the world is always changing. There is always new technology coming out and new perspectives on the world and how it works. The architects must be able to adapt to these changes over anything else.
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If I were looking to build my very own house I would want to have a contractor that first and foremost was honest. Given that I have always liked stone and concrete architecture they would also have to have experience with the material. In regards to being agreeable I feel that they should be somewhat flexible but not so much that they capitulate to my every whim for this could inevitably affect the integrity of my houses structure. I think another important aspect of a good contracting firm should be having the capability to be as cost effective as possible without taking short cuts. Lastly I think that the firm should have thoroughly researched the area the house is being built on since wrong understanding of the sediment could result in the houses foundations breaking or total collapse.
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I use to be an architect major, and I believe in five factors that architects should consider. Which are physical requirements, user experience, time and money, context/setting, and upkeep. Being open minded and aware of others needs is really important when building cliental. As architects may have their own tastes whether it being modern or traditional. Your client is your main priority to please. Creativity is an important factor as well.
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I would want my architects to be credible, reasonable, civilized, honest, open-minded, and willing to respect my views and opinions, even if they differ from theirs. I believe that any firm should have these traits, not just architectural firms. I would want to work with people who would be willing to listen to my wants and needs and who are truly dedicated to their job; I would rather work with people who do architectural work for fun rather than just for profit. The specific credentials that I look for in a firm are that they are adaptable and flexible. By adaptable, I mean that I would want a firm that is able and willing to adapt to the modern world and keep up with the times, and by flexible, I mean that a firm should be able and willing to go along with multiple ideas and not just one. I wouldn’t want to work with people who are very rigid with their ideas. Creativity also goes a long way, and I would want to promote that among my coworkers as well. I’m also willing to try new things, and I think creativity and innovation are key factors in achieving my dream project. I would also want my firm to have a more democratic approach, or operate in a way that lets everyone have a voice. To summarize, I would want my architects to be very approachable, down to earth, and willing to accept different ideas, or ideas that aren’t their own. Most importantly, though, I would want people who take their job as architects seriously and are able to have fun with it at the same time. There’s a saying that goes “if you love what you do, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” I would want my architects to embody that saying and do their job because they want to, not because they feel like they have to. I believe that with the right amount of creative freedom and determination, anyone can achieve their dream project(s).
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