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Ford Gillen Architects, Inc.
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FIRM PROFILE
PARTNER COMMENTS The firm's approach: Our goal is to establish an amiable working relationship with the client and the client's consultants. While developing program requirements and reviewing all relevant codes, a complete documentation of the site is made including review of all existing documents, field measuring and photographs of all existing conditions. Computer-generated base drawings are then prepared using AutoCad, becoming the base for all future design and construction drawings. Preliminary design options are prepared for review. The design process is viewed as a collaborative process with the client and all members of the project team. After review and input from the client, a schematic plan and supporting drawings are prepared for approval and presentation as required to town agencies, and upon which a cost estimate can be based. All supporting technical documents are prepared prior to cost estimating. We hire mechanical, electrical, structural and environmental engineers, as subconsultants for preparation of documents, as well as landscape architects, historic preservationists, and cost estimators as required. Currently, our office of six includes two full time architects, three designers and one office manager. The firm's vision: We provide symbols of strength and identity to local communities and their institutions through design collaboration and joint intellectual effort. Award winning designs include expansion and renovation of the Hampshire County Courthouse, Northampton, Massachusetts; the Marcus Kiley Junior High School Addition, Springfield, Massachusetts; the Ann Whalen Apartments, Amherst, Massachusetts; and the urban design of downtown Bennington, Vermont. The firm's philosophy: Provide excellent service by addressing the client's goals, time table and budget. Longstanding relationships with many of our clients bear this out. We are the equivalent of a “country doctor” of architecture: Our projects are primarily located
within the local communities in this part of Massachusetts
and we perform a full range of architectural services, rather than specializing in one type of
project. However, we think that our special brand of professionalism can be
useful to projects
located outside our typical service area. We think that our individual interests, combined with
our range of experience, state of the art communications systems, and hands on working style
would make us a valuable team
member in any proposed project. The architecture, whether it is a new
roof or a new building, is the product of collaboration
between owner, users, consultants, contractor, public agencies, and any other party having
input into a project. Therefore, we see our primary role as architect being one of educator
and
facilitator. The individual inspiration offered by the architect, though
significant, is only one small
piece of the greater whole of the project. Our
architectural vision is intimately connected to the
visions of all parties
involved. We acknowledge the power of relationships and the time it takes
to make final decisions. We believe in adaptability and flexibility while
maintaining a clear focus
on the desired outcome. Our final design is truly a
synthesis of all influences, and it is our hope
that the process of getting there is an enjoyable and valuable experience for all involved. We
welcome the challenges inherent in every proposed project, and celebrate diversity of design
as the hallmark of each individual process. In addition to his architectural
practice of the past 35 years, Bill and his wife Connie have worked
their 10 acre market farm, producing a full range of seasonal vegetables and flowers for
sale at
the local farm market each summer and fall. His passion for agriculture
and interests in adaptability,
cultural anthropology, choral singing, and
handball all contribute to his unique ability to think creatively
and flexibly.
Kathy’s personal journey includes being a mother of two children, one with Down Syndrome, a yoga practice, training in Reiki, Qigong, Shamanic Dreaming, and Energy Medicine. She continues to add to her developed body of work as a quilt artist. Her knowledge of healing practices and her interest in the complex relationships between 'individual' and 'community' give her a unique perspective in the creation of sacred spaces and healing environments. |