The seamless integration of floor plan, form, function and structure are what we believe to be the defining attributes that distinguish good architecture from mediocre design. A building whose structure is forced upon the floor plan will never be in harmony with itself. One need only to look at nature to find examples of the integration of form and function where the form is the necessary structure that lends function to the organism.

A functional floor plan with an aesthetically balanced exterior alone does not necessarily constitute good design. A structural framing system that integrates with the floor plan and exterior form is the true expression of good architecture. Throughout history many examples of great architecture support this premise. The great colonnades found in Roman civic buildings, the vaulted arches of gothic churches, and the expressive forms found in great contemporary structures all display the concept of integration of structure and architectural form.

A common mistake of inexperienced designers is to manipulate floor plans without regard to their impact on structure and form. The resulting inefficient structural framing system may be costly to build with columns and beams required in less than ideal locations and a general lack of coordination with floor plan elements.

In our approach to design, we employ the principles of absolute integration between plan, structure, and form. Our homes are designed three-dimensionally using software that allows for instant feedback on exterior forms as we manipulate the floor plan. We are able to overlay plans as we design to ensure alignment of point loads and bearing walls from the roofs to the foundation. Designing in this manner requires constant study, exploration, manipulation and revision to get to the final result. Integrated design takes time.

Unfortunately, most inexperienced home buyers never realize the importance of this concept and put their primary emphasis on the floor plan, finishes, fixtures and exterior materials only. By employing the services of Bouril Design Studio, you can avoid this common mistake while raising the quality of the design to a level that is deserving of your expectations.