PHILOSOPHY

We believe that architecture is a service profession, and that architects are servants to our clients — and our neighbors, region, and the natural environment. This servanthood is both general and specific. It speaks to the attitude of those who serve as architects, to the type of work we do, and the way we do it. It has to do with seeing the big picture and paying attention to the little things at the same time.

Some principles for servant architecture include:
• A respectful and open-eyed understanding of the past: the people, the institutions, and the structures
• Humility in our response to the site
• Respect for our client’s needs and financial goals
• Frugality in the use of resources
• Attention to creating safe, decent and affordable housing for all people
• Accommodation of the young, frail, disabled and elderly in our design
• Respect and care of the natural environment
• Reflection on the condition of the disenfranchised
• Striving to create peace-loving communities
• Working for justice for all people