Architecture
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Minnesotans have good taste in design. We’re rooted in Midwestern sensibility—if it looks good, it had better function well—but we’re not afraid to be a little edgy with our architecture, either. To the rest of the world, the Twin Cities may have been somewhat undiscovered until Newsweek named Minneapolis “Design City.” But we know our region has long been known for distinctive homes and unrivaled architectural talent.
Residential architects are experts in home design. You may be able to visualize the big picture of what you want out of your next home or remodeling project, but an architect knows which questions to ask to determine exactly how you want your home to complement your lifestyle. Architects merge the important principles of form and function, for results that live as well as they look.
Not just for new construction: the American Institute of Architects reports that nationally, fully one third of all architects’ revenue comes from renovation and remodeling projects.
Image Courtesy of AIA Minnesota
AIA MINNESOTA
Image Courtesy of AIA Minnesota
International Market Square, Suite 54
Minneapolis, MN
612-338-6763
www.aia-mn.org
About us…
The American Institute of Architects is the voice of the architectural profession and the resource for its members in service to the public. AIA Minnesota is the local chapter of AIA. In addition to its services for members and homeowners, AIA Minnesota publishes the bi-monthly publication Architecture Minnesota.
How is AIA Minnesota a resource?
An architect can add value to any project. AIA Minnesota has a series of educational pieces that address topics like what to expect in the design and construction process and how to interview an architect. In addition, we provide an annually updated architectural firm directory online and in our publication’s May/June issue.
Why work with an architect?…
In addition to their design skills, architects are also project managers. While the contractor will physically build a home or addition, the architect can assist the homeowner in making sure that the project is built according to plans and specifications.
Homes by Architects Tour
In 2008, AIA Minnesota hosted our first Homes by Architects Tour (pictured at right). Consumers had an opportunity to see 29 homes in Minnesota, mostly in the Twin Cities area, and talk with architects on the tour. We plan to do it again on September 19 and 20, 2009. Learn more at www.homesbyarchitects.org.
INSIDER INSIGHT “Working with an architect is an investment, not an added cost. Architects’ designs can capture energy savings, improve efficiency and functionality, and add market value to your property because good design sells.” –Excerpt from AIA Minnesota’s “Architecturally Designed Homes and You”
Herder Photography
HABITAT ARCHITECTURE
Herder Photography
Eden Prairie, MN
952-946-9700
www.habitatarchitecture.com
How did you get here?
After being in architectural practice for over 10 years, Hamid Kashani, AIA, went on his own to establish Habitat Architecture in 1991. Since then, he has been responsible for hundreds of uniquely designed home around the Twin Cities and beyond.
Listening well, responding creatively
We have intentionally kept Habitat Architecture small, so we can bring more personal and direct attention to all our clients. We treat every client as an individual with unique sets of requirements. Listening well and understanding our client’s objectives is the cornerstone of our approach to design. Being resourceful in dealing with the unique circumstances and responding creatively is our art.
What defines a beautiful home?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It is a subjective matter; different people have different ideas of what a beautiful home is. As an architecture firm, our role is not telling them what to like—it is to make sure we create something that they find pleasing while adhering to the principles that make it good architecture as well. We design homes that you will love to live in!
Shelter Savvy “Keep things looking clean and uncluttered. Sometimes less is more. Not every wall needs a picture; not every table needs a nick-knack. Too much of any good thing can become a little distracting. Create a focal point and avoid over-accessorizing.”
–Hamid Kashani, AIA, Habitat Architecture
Andrea Rugg Photography
OTAGAWA-ANSCHEL DESIGN-BUILD
Andrea Rugg Photography
Minneapolis, MN
612-789-7070
www.otogawa-anschel.com
Green design for the human scale
Otogawa-Anschel is a small firm that specializes in award-winning green design and construction. A pioneer in green remodeling, the firm has mastered the ability to blend high-end design with healthy, durable, and socially responsible materials. Our decade-plus experience with older homes has taught us to design for the human scale, and create spaces that delight the soul and enhance life.
We believe…
We believe that we have a responsibility to the home and its history as well as to the health and well-being of our clients. These homeowners place a great deal of trust in our hands to see that their vision is realized, balancing the wants and needs of the family with the architecture and design of the home.
You may not know…
We are not as expensive as people think. We are committed to working within our clients’ budgets and have a reputation for creative solutions that only look expensive. Often the best design solutions require using less space and simple materials that, when combined, add the unique elements associated with high-end design and craftsmanship.
Shelter Savvy “There is the idea out there that all of the finishes in a space need to match. I prefer to create a collection of complementary finishes that enhance the space and give it personality. Good design should not look like it was picked out of a catalog.” –Michael Anschel, Otogawa-Anschel Design Build
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