ABOUT OUR FIRM
Every Project we undertake is a unique opportunity for us to explore the relationship between the built environment and the natural environment, including not only the physical surroundings, but also the cultural, social and individual aspects. We enjoy and understand the incredible responsibility to create a built structure that addresses the utilitarian needs of our client, while also expressing a modern asthetic that manifests into the clients wants. We start by simply listening to the purpose; the budget; the dreams; the realities. ​
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Modern Architecture. Context: A building relates by responding to nature, breezes, orientation, views-desired and undesired. In an urban setting, a building must maintain the urban fabric; in terms of scale, importance, materials, orientation, axial relationships, and its role as part of the urban scope. In nature, a building must minimize its foortprint; establish a connection to the site with marriage of the building to the land; to protect and nurture the shelter. ​
Modern Architecture. Sustainable: Precious resources are to be used wisely and responsibly. Layers of unnecessary materials are to be avoided, and materials are used in an honest intended manner. The use of deep overhangs, generous wall openings, walls based on material proportions, shading devices and an appropriate sitting of the building to the land are a few elements of sustainable building. Also, we provide flexible spaces which not only maximize the function, but also provide an efficient and modest area that will satisfy our clients daily needs. Materials are commonly selected from local sources which are renewable, recyclable and long lasting. ​
Modern Architecture. Space: Creating spaces for a specific yet flexible need. To create a livable environment for the celebration of purpose; entertainment, working, living, worshipping, or simply observing. The purpose of the building provides the opportunity to create the space - the space creates the place.
PROJECT TYPE EXPERIENCE
COMMERCIAL
AMUSEMENT
PROFESSIONAL OFFICES
MEDICAL OFFICES
MIXED-USE
MULTI-USE FACILITIES
RELIGIOUS
RETAIL
RESTAURANTS
RECREATION
WELLNESS
RESIDENTIAL
SINGLE-FAMILY
APARTMENTS
TOWNHOMES
CONDOMINIUMS
ARCHITECTURAL
PROGRAMMING
MASTER PLANNING
DESIGN/RENDERING SERVICES
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
BUILD BY JMS ARCHITECTS IS AN ARCHITECT-LED DESIGN+BUILD FIRM.
WHAT IS ARCHITECT-LED DESIGN+BUILD?
It’s an integrated approach to Design+BUILD, where the architect is responsible for both the professional services and the BUILD services—from design through project delivery. While this may seem like a new approach, historically, architects were known as Master Builders—individuals highly skilled in the art of building. We apply this philosophy to every phase of our Design+BUILD process.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF ARCHITECT-LED DESIGN+BUILD?
COMMUNICATION. Effective communication is crucial in construction projects. The client must clearly express their needs to the architect, and the architect must convey ideas to the Design+BUILD team. With open communication between the client and architect, decisions are made seamlessly throughout the process.
DESIGN. From the initial concept to the final construction detail, aesthetic and functional decisions must be made. Who better to make those decisions, in collaboration with the client, than the person designing the project? Design never truly ends—it evolves and adapts to the needs of the client throughout the project.
QUALITY. As architects, we are keenly aware of the quality of materials, design concepts, longevity, and aesthetic decisions that ultimately define a quality project.
TIMELINE. We adhere to the client’s schedule and manage the design team’s production. We understand the project’s unique features, and develop details and timeframes during the design phase. During construction, the architect-owner decision-making process is streamlined, along with any supplemental construction details. We collaborate closely with subcontractors to refine details and ensure the project stays on track and on schedule.
BUDGET. We firmly believe the budget is an essential partner in Design+BUILD. From conception to implementation, the budget needs to be part of the equation. Just as design is true to its form and function, the budget must align with the design, reflecting a build that meets the client’s needs, is sustainable, stands the test of time, and is aesthetically significant—while maximizing value.
CRAFT. As architects, we are driven by a passion for refined and carefully built craftsmanship. This is what drives us—we are more focused on craft than profit.
DETAILS. Beauty lies in the details. No set of drawings can fully capture the specifics needed to bring a designer’s vision to life. Traditional architect site visits are limited, and work done between visits may conflict with the vision. As builders, we are involved in day-to-day construction, ensuring the project stays true to its vision, grounded in the details.
VALUE. Each BUILD we undertake is a commitment to deliver the maximum in design and quality. As Designers+BUILDers, we bring both areas of expertise to each project, at a comparable cost to traditional custom general contractors, providing the client with maximum value.
BUILD. Throughout each BUILD, we stay in touch with construction issues such as the availability and capabilities of subcontractors, budgets, and the ramifications of material selections. We constantly challenge ourselves, as well as our subcontractors. As a result, with every project, we become better designers.
WHAT DO WE BUILD?
We only BUILD our own design projects. Due to the level of involvement required in the BUILD process, we limit the number of projects we undertake to ensure we can successfully manage each one. Every project, regardless of size, is equally important. We BUILD residential and small commercial projects—those that challenge us as Designers+BUILDers.
Throughout our portfolio, you’ll find examples of our BUILD projects—each one a true Design+BUILD.
