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An Architect's Sketchbook | Williams S. Briggs

Here's a sneak peek behind the scenes of the design process.  These are some of my sketches I've produced prior or during the design phase. People may be under the impression that the ideas architects and designers come up with are arbitrary. The truth is we constantly think of ideas and different iterations of designs. It can start from one simple sketch and lead to multiple sketches. Sketchbooks are always at hand to jot down ideas whenever they come.  

William S. Briggs, Architect, PLLC
214.696.1988

William@WilliamsBriggs.com
http://www.williamsbriggs.com

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Miramar Home | William S. Briggs, Architect

Trends in the real estate market can often be at odds with good design.  Bigger is not always better, likewise, checking off a list of currently popular home features may not leave you with a home that feels like YOUR home.  If you’re thinking of building a house, working with an architect is the number one way you can ensure that you will get a well-designed home that has been built with your desire for quality and beauty in mind.  Here a few things to consider:

Will it live well?

Beauty AND functionality are important, and neither should be overlooked.  Obviously, you will be living in and around your home on a daily basis, so you want an environment that is pleasing to look at, as well as one that serves your daily needs.  Disposing of kitchen cabinets in favor of floor to ceiling windows is a decision to consider carefully.  Make a list of both functional and aesthetic features you must have in your home and be willing to compromise on the rest.

Square Footage is Just a Number

Focus on the layout and feel of the home rather than the overall square footage.  As long as the space is well utilized, the actual size is just something to put on a flyer.  Open floor plans are achievable in any size- you just need to use some creativity.  

What’s the Budget?

Every home has a budget.  The materials you use to build your dream home will dictate a large amount of the cost.  Is granite a must-have?  Heated bathroom floors a necessity?  Working with an architect can open your eyes to new materials available, as well as how to maximize elegance while still sticking to a budget.  

If you’re not sold on the homes available for purchase, consider new construction.  It can be just as affordable, while giving you control over the design process.  

William S. Briggs, Architect, PLLC
214.696.1988

William@WilliamsBriggs.com
http://www.williamsbriggs.com

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S&D Oyster Company, Dallas

If the walls could talk, they would tell you what they’ve tasted, smelled, and heard over the last three decades from the kitchens and diners at the Dallas landmark, S&D Oyster Company.  They might also tell you they’re ready to show off their facelift  The two story addition to S&D Oyster Company is slated to open in early 2015.  

“Renovating a building as old and iconic as this has been a challenge,” said architect William S. Briggs who has been working on the project.  “It was imperative to maintain the structure’s historical character and New Orleans French Quarter feel, while updating it for a modern dining experience.”  Briggs brought an in-depth understanding of design and Dallas's unique sensibilities to the project due to his decades of experience designing homes and structures in North Texas.  Carrell Partners & Yost also worked on the renovation.  

Located at 2701 McKinney Avenue in Uptown, S&D Oyster Company has remained open during the entire two year construction project.  The addition, which doubles the existing square footage of the restaurant, will also include a full bar, two wood burning fireplaces, two full service kitchens, as well as courtyard for outdoor dining.  

William S. Briggs, Architect, PLLC

214.696.1988

William@WilliamsBriggs.com
http://www.williamsbriggs.com