Foundations

(Hardback)

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Description

The most important project for a design studio is the design of the practice itself. A studios point of view is often first defined by feelings and hopes, but if cultivated, grows into values and tactics.

How the studio environment is crafted and how it cultivates a kinship around this point of view with collaborators, clients, consultants, community members, and contractors is essential for it to be productive and have a healthy impact. With discipline, a studio evolves a practice that shapes the character, performance, and value of the work. The studios early critiques define the approach and territory of work and the propositions that are asked of every project. The studio environment and relationships create the space for the work to be possible.

Nine (9) Propositions and fifty-three (53) Foundations are shared herein. Each Foundation additionally includes a supportive commentary. Foundations and Propositions are presented as a work in progress. These are lists that chronicle our thinking and doing over 25 years. For us, there is no separation between theory and practice. This collection of Foundations and Propositions captures an approach to the work and way of being an architect. This work is a privilege with public responsibilities. This is one studios search for public good.

Author Bio

Anne Marie Duvall Decker, FAIA, sees architecture as instrument, engaging the material phenomena of the environment and the culture of place to create, work of public value. She leads the studio in creating elusive forms and engaging public spaces, no matter the type, size, or budget of projects. Anne is teacher, leader, and an accomplished pianist.

Roy T. Decker, FAIA, expands the role of an architect in search of public good. Roys dedication to design excellence, education, and craft infuses the firms work with meaning. For the past three decades, Roy has led the firm to complete public projects of varying scales and types and to achieve significant design recognition. Roy is a design and critical thought leader, teacher, and a landscape painter.