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Principles for Architectural Design on Cape Cod

Many styles of architecture exist on Cape Cod: Colonials (capes, saltboxes); Victorians (Greek, Gothic, Italianate, Second Empire, Queen Ann); Craftsman; Shingle; International; Post Modern; and others. Independent from styles, some buildings make a positive contribution to our built environment, and some detract from it. Inherent qualities of good architectural design have much more effect on architectural success than do characteristics of different styles.

As in the fashion industry, styles in architecture are aesthetic trends that are subject to constant change. At Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects Builders we try to make judgments based on a harder to define concept of quality. The need for a high level of quality remains constant, regardless of style.

There are certain design principles we follow that we believe lead to thoughtful, high quality architecture. These principles produce numerous and often conflicting needs. To design a good building, we have to apply both critical and creative thinking in a complex process of condensing these needs into an intentional whole. Inspiration plays a part, but mostly it takes hard work.

Some of the principles we strive to follow:

Act responsibly toward historic contexts. This does not mean replicating history as if the world were a theme park. True historic patterns have always accepted change, but sometimes within limits. Both analogy (blending in) and contrast (sometimes to stand out, sometimes to allow others to stand out) can be appropriate contextual responses. Richer and more interesting environments result from complexity within limits rather than total conformity.

Act responsibly toward natural contexts. Build in ways that tread lightly on sensitive land and provide remediation to damaged landscapes.

Carefully analyze the building site. Sun orientation, prevailing winds, view, existing trees, location of roads and neighbors, and topography all give clues to appropriate siting and form.

Use natural resources conservatively and creatively. Minimize non-renewable energy use and waste. Manage solar exposure. Favor recycled and renewable products.

Use methods and materials that are durable and respond well to the climate. One of the most basic roles of architecture is to provide shelter. Wind, rain and snow must be kept out; heat in the winter and cool air in the summer must be kept in.

Light is critical to successful spaces, especially natural light. The size, number, and placement of windows can make the difference between a drab space and a delightful one; between glare and comfort. Well chosen and located, light fixtures can provide comfort and atmosphere, or, poorly chosen and located, they can be uncomfortable and distracting.

Respect the budget. Let clients know, however, when their needs/wishes and their budgets do not align, and involve them in decisions to bring them into alignment.

Treat each project as an individual work of art and craft tailored specifically to its owner. Listen carefully to the client to understand what is special about them, their needs, and their vision for the project. Work toward an architectural interpretation of their vision that excites them. When clients become emotionally engaged the results are always better than if excitement rests only with the architect.

Provide for a variety of spatial experiences: spaces for both solitude and socializing; spaces that offer a sense of enclosure and those that offer a sense of connection to the world beyond; spaces that comfortably accommodate their functions but are flexible enough to change with time.

Create spaces not only within buildings but around them too. This includes welcoming entry courts, outdoor living spaces like decks and terraces, and transitional spaces (like covered porches) that are part exterior and part interior. This is especially important in regions like ours where outdoor living is so desirable.

Understand that scale and size are different. Some times small buildings are better if they are made to look bigger and big buildings are better if they are made to look smaller. Manipulation of scale can achieve this. Care and consideration must be taken at every level, from over-all massing to small details, and the greatest harmony is achieved when all scales (large, medium and small) are present.

Buildings should have character. They should be playful and witty; they should be fun to look at and to be in. They should display artful proportions, ornament, assemblages and forms. They should evoke positive associations and smiles. Some times they can be straight forward and direct, but more often they are complex and idiosyncratic, reflecting the distinctive nature of their owners, creators, locales and era.

Buildings should relate to architectural history. Representation of historical elements, however, is usually better than replication. Fresh interpretations of architectural tradition derive from an eclectic and evolutionary use of architectural history. Architectural innovation, when it exists, should evolve from this reinterpretation and from functional or environmental needs, not from a revolutionary break with the past, a bold new vision of the future, or a wish to be avant-garde for its own sake. Innovative buildings should combine positive known qualities (including those derived from local vernacular architecture) with experimental new ones. This leads to personal expression that is connected with the past, appropriate for the present, and forward looking to the future.

The principles that deal with environmental issues like siting, natural light, and use of resources are now often called "green" design, and the recent increased public awareness of such issues is welcome. They are not, however, new ideas, just a new emphasis on a sound and responsible approach that should always be a part of an architects thinking.

With an approach to architecture that values adherence to principles like those listed above, buildings will serve their users and the public well, and they will be treasured. Since we work primarily on Cape Cod, we hope that a true Cape Cod architecture, independent from style but dependent on quality, results from our approach.

This article originally appeared in Home Remodeling Cape Cod, The Islands & The South Coast, Fall 2007.