Conterra: with Earth– The act of building demands an adaptive and holistic perspective.  In this era of rapid change, construction methods, fashions and even the way we use a building are likely to change over a single generation.  The landscape, climate and local culture affect the site and vice-versa.  As in ecology, building systems are interdependent and a holistic approach is key to successful design and construction. We consider the project’s larger context as we seek timeless solutions.

The telling of a Dream – Our clients share their dreams with us. As a dream is shared it often transforms; through the telling – as in waking – dreams bridge dimensions and connect people to place and time (site).  We  believe in the enduring relevance of dreams – etched hard or written lightly – in a place.  People, families and communities are the source of a  project’s lyric shape and expression.

Collaborative –  The best solutions arise when people come together – often from a convergence of lightness and experience.   Collaboration yields broad solutions and helps unite and empower us.  We seek the wisdom of experts but also the experience and creativity of tradesmen, artists, ranchers, longtime-locals and children.  People are the essential ingredients that bring a project to life.

Cost – For every project, design must add-value greater than the architect’s fee.  Value is added through design-excellence.  Owners deserve clear, reliable cost information on which to base their decisions.   Owner priorities and budget continually guide and clarify the (sometimes esoteric) process of design.

Buildings use at least 1/3 of US energy, which is becoming more expensive every day.  Energy costs should be considered along with construction, maintenance and other costs.  Life-cycle costs help owners make design decisions that remain valid long after construction is complete.

We seek the wise use of healthy, renewable materials; the careful consideration of natural light & energy; and a deep respect for each unique owner and their site.

“Our process is devoted to craft – the artful making of useful things.  In defining our architecture as craft – and not art – we become builders.  This simple distinction clarifies our work toward the delight of function and allows the act of building to inform design.”

-Jersey Devil?