Westchester architect

Architects in Westchester NY, Michael McCann Westchester architect, architects Westchester county,

Showing posts with label Architect residential design Westchester and architectural design. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Architect residential design Westchester and architectural design. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Architect with Residential building experience


In attending seminars and meeting with other architects, I often discuss the fact that I have been both an architect and a builder, contrary to the experience of most architects. In addition, architects will assume that I have just supervised the building of a project. What really astounds them is that I have actually build many of my projects. Yes, I have wielded a hammer! In spending the beginning of my architectural career not only designing my work, but also physically building it, I got an intimate knowledge of construction methods and procedures. So often there is a disconnect between the the architect's design and the ability to actually get the project built. In addition, when you also build what you have designed, the architect must order every board and nail and has first hand experience with construction costs. As the builder you then understand that projects cannot be easily broken down by cost per square foot in generalized terms. Having to pay for the materials, the subcontractors and the attending overhead such as liability and workers comp insurance provides an invaluable education as to construction costs. The combined experience as both architect and builder has provided a unique prospective that most architects never understand.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Architectural Scale, architecture Westchester cty and Fairfield cty



Sometimes when planning a renovation to an existing residence or choosing a new home, people believe that soaring spaces create a feeling of openness and grandure. But I have found that these huge spaces with extremely high ceilings lack the feeling of coziness that people innately crave. There is a sense in most people of human scale. While on paper, designs that incorporate large open indoor spaces, whether residential or commercial, have the occupant feeling somewhat lost and uncomfortable and unable to relate to their surroundings. This is especially true in a residential setting. After dealing with the pressures of daily life outside the home, most people want to come home to a comforting living space which gives a peaceful feeling. Hard surfaces and high ceilings with no architectural detailing and a perception of being out of human scale often do not provide a relaxing setting for the occupant. It is important for anyone considering a renovation or new home to remember that someone's artistic vision for your space or the latest architectural fad must translate to the homeowner's sensibilities and how they want the space to serve them.