Inspiration

Inspiration

Throughout this blog I've highlighted and created links to exceptional individuals and organizations who design thoughtful homes, environmentally responsible communities and historically based building products. Some of them are local to me, while others I've yet to meet. They are exceptional because at some point in their careers, be it a moment in time or countless hours spent around a conference room table, they decided to do what was right...even though their wallets might be fatter if they just followed the crowd. Their hard work and dedication to their chosen craft is now paying dividends in the form of homes and communities that will age gracefully and be admired for generations to come...and maybe even be an inspiration to others, like they were to me.

Thomas J. Ryan, Jr. - Architect

Like most of the internet, blogs read from newest to oldest entry...this one works best by reading the first three posts in chronological order, starting with the Welcome! post. Just scroll down on the right side of this page until you see the Blog Archive list...click on 2011, then scroll down to the bottom after the new page appears. Please email me with any comments and thanks for stopping by!

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Architectural Patterns - little details

When it comes to architectural patterns it's the little stuff that can have the biggest impact. Not only on the house itself as the sum of its parts, but on the sheer number of existing homes that could benefit from an introduction to traditional details. Even something as mundane as a window and siding replacement job could benefit with a little help from an experienced residential architect. It's a wonderful chance to re-imagine what your home could be. The value of a well designed or re-designed exterior cannot be underestimated.



Following are ten common elements found on the exterior of many new and existing homes throughout the country. Unfortunately, finding many examples as well executed as the pictured elements below is a less common experience. In addition to the brief introductions that follow, future posts will show why these architectural patterns and many others came about and how their principles can be applied today in creating a timeless quality while renovating or building a new home.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Respect regional building traditions...


I took this photograph while on a Chicago Architecture Foundation walking tour of Prairie Crossing in Grayslake, Illinois. The community is new but the houses look like they have been there for quite some time. They have been designed with a respect for regional building styles typically influenced by history or climate, in this case a Midwest Farmhouse complete with wrap-around porch.