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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

 

 

 

   

 

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