The Architecture of Portrait Making

Recently, a friend who read my blog, and is clearly NOT an architect, suggested that I write about the residential design process. How do I develop a unique project for each client? What is the client / architect relationship about?

Through a series of blogs, I plan on shedding some light on how we do that at Ramsay Gourd Architects.
I have had literally hundreds of residential clients, from Habitat starter homes to New York City coops and lofts, each with their own sets of requirements, values and personal tastes. It is important to keep in mind that my role is not to create something that reflects who I am, but rather a true portrait of who my client is. Their new home should bring out the best of their personal characteristics. It should accommodate their eccentricities. And it should be a flattering reflection of who they are and how they live. This is how I judge my success in a project.

In our office, we have a motto “Provide the client with exactly what they want. –Better than they thought they could have it.” That’s a tall order. And admittedly, sometimes we do fall short. But it is a great aspiration.

By writing this series, I aim to articulate our process for designing a successful architectural portrait. I also hope that this collection of blogs is a useful tool for people considering working with a designer. If I can train them to be good clients, think what a great service I am doing for my industry!

I hope you enjoy it, and would love your feedback.