Design for Life: In the Deep South

Holly & Smith Architects (H/S) have created a body of work that demonstrates a deep respect for the climate, vernacular, culture, context, topography, and natural environment of the deep South. Their design philosophy is informed by significant climate and environmental factors, as well as the culture of south Louisiana. They use sustainability methods such as adaptive reuse of historic structures to address the needs of clients, users, and communities. Their timeless designs fit seamlessly into the existing architectural inventory of the deep South while utilising current technologies, materials, and construction methodologies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2023
Publisher: Oro Editions

This comprehensive monograph delves into the illustrious career of Holly & Smith Architects (H/S) over the past four decades. Presented here is a compilation of some of the firm's most recent and remarkable achievements, showcasing the designers' profound reverence for the unique climate, vernacular, culture, topography, and natural environment of the deep South. The H/S design philosophy has been significantly shaped by significant climate and environmental factors, while the culture of south Louisiana has left an indelible mark on the design solutions, honoring the vernacular and context of the semi-rural communities.

Furthermore, the constraints imposed by clients of modest means are embraced as a creative opportunity to employ ordinary materials and methods in innovative and unique ways. The designs exemplify sustainability practices, such as the use of locally sourced materials and a rigorous focus on energy conservation through detailed site analysis and building orientation. Several projects showcased address sustainability through the adaptive reuse of historic structures. By leveraging historic tax incentives, these examples preserve the historic integrity of the façade while repurposing the interiors, revitalizing often overlooked and neglected cultural gems and bringing them back into active commerce.

These timeless designs seamlessly integrate into the existing architectural landscape of the deep South, while incorporating modern technologies, materials, and construction methodologies to meet the diverse needs of clients, users, and communities. Through their meticulous attention to detail, H/S Architects have created a body of work that not only showcases their architectural prowess but also contributes to the preservation and revitalization of the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Dimension: 254 x 254 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781957183411