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Architectural Exterior Elevation DesignThe exterior elevations, or exterior views of the residence are critically important to the overall design. What 'look' do you want? It can be of some help to use words like 'Mediterranean style', 'Farm style', 'Modern', 'Prairie style' or the like, but the best gauge of design emerges from descriptions (often photos) from the owner. The site plan design and floor plan design cannot be separated from the exterior elevation design. Jim Finch Architecture will, with your input, bring the various elements of design together to fit your ideal. A few of the elements found in competent architectural exterior elevation design are:
The exterior materials are an integral expression of the 'style' of the residence. A few of the common choices are stucco, siding, rock facing and brick. Jim Finch Architecture will work with you to assure that the exterior building materials chosen for the exterior 'look' will be consistent with the style you're after. Proportion Intelligent proportioning is a key to the success of exterior elevation design. The human eye ('trained' or not) can 'read' when proportions are 'correct' or not. Window sizes, types, and locations are one part of that formula. Use of decks, patios, landscaping, and 'jogs' (horizontal and vertical) in the floor plan can also play parts in defining 'correct' (or appealing) proportions. Architectural roof design Architectural roof design ties in closely with the 'style' you're looking for. Roofing materials (slate, composition shingles, barrel tiles, metal roofing, to name a few) are often integral parts of the 'look'. A Mediterranean style, for example, is best achieved with concrete or clay barrel tiles. Roof pitch and configuration (shape) also are tied in with the 'style' issue. Flat roofs are often (but not always) paired with modern architecture. 'Hip roofs' and 'gable end' roofs are common in many styles, but can be important parts in exterior elevation architectural design. Roof pitches, originally a function of local climates, must, at a minimum, allow for proper drainage of rainwater. More dramatic roof pitches were originally designed for handling snow loads. Roof pitch (dramatic or slight) can be a key part in defining exterior elevation styles. As in cohesive floor plan design, there are many dimensions to competent exterior elevation design. A few of those dimensions are outlined above.
Give me a call at (813) 838-0425 with any questions or comments about your Florida residential project. Residential Architect Florida: Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Bradenton, Lutz, Tarpon Springs, Land O' Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Springhill.
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