Architecture

Architecture combines the ability to be an artist as well as providing engineering know-how to assemble the building on paper. Our firm enjoys working closely with our Clients to discover and envision their wishes, desires, wants and needs.

The Passion

We enjoy fulfilling dreams for others, and we do more than just contemporary or traditional styles. At Sholar Architecture, we assist you in discovering the best solution and then providing an overall, unifying conclusion that flows throughout the architecture, site and surrounding environment.

The Experience

Architecture is the art and science of developing a piece of 3-dimensional sculpture that is inhabited for a specific function. Many senses are touched as one experiences the architecture. The visual impact is observed in the creation of the spaces into volumes that are reflected through the exterior façade. In other words, to quote a famous architect, Louis Sullivan, " form follows function ." At first glance, the eye takes in simple elements that interest you to want to see the sculpture more closely. As you get closer, you see the smooth surfaces, as well as the textured materials used to create the walls, windows and roofs. The way light is cast over and through the form, throughout the seasons, and at different times of the day and night, is critical to making the form alive. Sound changes as the textures change from hard to soft surfaces, allowing sound to be bounced throughout, either creating loudness or absorbing the sound to create a soft, warm environment. As you walk through the space, you touch the varied textures---from a silky smooth finish to a rough hand cut stone---each of which formalizes the visual and acoustical aspects of the piece. As one walks through the spaces at different times, one is pleasantly surprised with new aspects for years to come .

The Process

We start by developing a program of priorities regarding costs; those items that we cannot change, but can manage (such as the site and weather), and all issues important to the Client. We then begin to mold the architecture, starting with broad brush strokes. We are not yet concerned with details such as door frames and outlets. Instead, we are exploring spatial relationships of functions and how they interrelate with one another. Sketches are created to explain the priorities in the drawing format as the architectural process develops. After a preliminary site plan and floor plan have been established, interior volumes are evaluated and developed. We step back to review our work at this point of preliminary design, and with the Owner, reach agreement in determining if this is the correct direction prior to proceeding to more detailed elements.

The development of the systems and details create construction documents that are then read for construction. Throughout this process, we manage adherence to the construction documents by coordinating each aspect with our project managers and other key personnel. At this point, 3-dimensional renderings can be developed to help the Client visualize their dreams.

Awards

Though we are not constantly pursuing awards, Sholar Architecture has received numerous residential and commercial awards from our peers. We are proud to have received an Award for Excellence in Design and Development from the City of Westminster, Colorado without even applying for that honor!