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On Seeing Clearly:
"The greatest thing a human soul ever does
in this world is to see something and tell what it saw in a plain
way.
Hundreds of people can talk for one who can
think, but thousands can think for one who can see.
To see clearly is poetry, prophecy and religion
- all in one."
from
Modern Painters John Ruskin, 1888
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Final Comments
Hopefully these pages have helped you understand the
approach we take in creating exciting architecture. Our achievements,
however carry little significance in the choice of a design or particular
style, since each project (and client) is represented by an independent
and innovative approach to creative problem solving. In residential
design style is a reference to you, the client. Ours is a philosophical
solution to architecture as well as a design-oriented process. How
does the house adapt to your lifestyle to become your home? With
each project vital to our professional reputation, you are assured
we will strive to satisfy your architectural requirements with attention
to details and a meticulous sense of design excellence.
This excellence in design requires fair compensation.
Our fees meet very particular client needs, but the difference between
being 'cost-effective' and 'cheap' is in the commitment and execution
of these services. Think of good architecture as your most valuable
project insurance. Your home is usually the single largest investment
you will make in your lifetime. A dollar is spent on a very good
design (or on poor design) is only significant when the building
is completed.
Project costs are an important factor in your
consideration. Usually the aesthetic appearance requires a greater
investment, however this "curbside appeal" will also sell
at a much higher value. "Quality is expensive but priceless."
When you make a statement with special design criteria (in construction
of your project) at over two-hundred dollars per square foot, look
closely at all costs, and ask yourself if compromise in the design
services is an appropriate cost-cutting measure. Changing layouts
and design configurations on paper in the schematic design phase
is a lot less expensive than those additional services and changes
to the project during the construction phase. Almost without exception
changes to the construction documents during construction are the
single main reason for dreaded project cost overruns and delays
in project completion.
When comparing architectural services consider
the comprehensive nature of our proposal carefully. Contact our
past client references as these are your best reference to our performance.
Specializing in custom residential architecture with innovative,
design-oriented interaction between client and architect (on a personal
basis) is our most important attribute. We succeed because we listen
carefully to your needs and provide creative solutions based upon
an extensive architectural history of practical work experience.
The inherent complexity of the architectural process becomes a rewarding
experience when all of the project criteria has been resolved to
your satisfaction.
Quentin Dart Parker, Architect
Pacific Palisades CA, March 2003

Foam Domes, illustration
by John Adams
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