Bill – Great comments. Hopefully the profession of architecture can renew its commitment to the most important building of them all, the dwelling. I also agree with your observation that the “green” movement, while bordering on a mania and providing an avenue for charlatans, does increase awareness of critical and important issues in home design. Designing and building a house that is efficent, suits its site, uses resources responsibly, and fits harmoniously with its surroundings is a hallmark of good design. It’s what we should be doing regardless of the cost of energy or the political tenor of the times. We should design houses this way simply because it’s the right thing to do.

I’m happy to hear that you like my book. I see “army” in your e-mail address. Thanks for your service. There are still many of us out here who appreciate our exceptional armed forces and the good work they do for all of us.

Bill

I just FINISHED you book, and it was very INFORMATIVE….. ugh… long day.

–BM

I have several comments:

First, I just finish reading your book and I really enjoyed it. As someone educated in construction science, from a family of builders, and one with a lifelong appreciation of architecture (in many forms), I thank you for putting things that I felt, but didn’t know, into print.

Second, I concur with your comments about the trend in your profession. While searching for residential architects for my future home, I am discouraged that residential design seems to be, generally speaking, relegated to the back burner based on the web portfolios I’ve come across in the last several weeks. I find it interesting that much of the discussion of anything other than modern or post-modern residential design is discussed more often in publication targeting BUILDERS instead of architects.

Third, in response to the “green” comment posted by Mr. Minkler. While many may concur with your doubts in the scientific validity of global warming, etc., one beneficial outcome has been an increased focus by homeowners on proper site selection, location and orientation of there homes to bring back tried and true design / construction techniques. Regardless of the validity of the cause, it is difficult to deny the increasing cost of energy to the homeowner, even if you believe (as I do) that global warming theories are largely bunk.

Thank you for your book and blog. They have both been very information.

Regards,

Bill Meredith

It is a shame that the architecture magazines only look to the avante guarde for what is deemed architectural merit. Even the publication of the AIA (which should be representing all American architects) – Record Homes – has homes that are typically way too austere for an even progressive familiy’s tastes – not to mention that they can’t be constructed by a residential builder. I could go on, but need to get back to the board/machine. Just good to meet peers who share my views and concerns.

I much prefer to see a wide variety of high-quality designs represented rather than just one small segment. I’m sure that view would be reflected in the general population as well. I also don’t get too worked up over all of this talk about “green” building (as I am not a devotee of the global warming nonsense). It is another form of political correctness which is choking creative thought and good design.