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Design Philosophy

Our design philosophy is that our architecture respects the context, people, and culture where the building is placed. Our design will be sensitive to the needs and objectives of our clients, the program, the users, and the schedule and budget. We do not have a preconceived design solution or style that is superimposed on any project. We listen closely to our client’s concerns, desires, needs, and management philosophy, then creatively translate them into problem solving concepts that provide the foundation for architectural design. It is during this process that we gain a clear understanding of the institutional standards and they become a part of the design for the project. In general terms, the design result on any project evolves from the owner requirements, the physical environment, the personality of the owner (each owner has a personality, whether an individual, a corporate entity, or a university entity), and the ability of the architect to incorporate all requirements, both objective and subjective, into a viable design.

Design Goals

Design goals should include designing for efficient and secure operation, adequate circulation, centralized supervision of operational spaces, promotion of interaction with diversified activities, adaptation to changing technology and future expansion or program changes. New buildings will include ADA / Accessibility reviews, educational adequacy, life safety, building integrity and code compliance. Building systems renovations will also include improvements to interiors, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing and exterior, where required.

Green TEA Approach

STOA is the only architectural firm in the U.S. that is equipped with the capability to holistically address the psychological, behavioral, and economic aspect of building design through Feng Shui spatial values. Our firm has long practiced a unique design approach that incorporates traditional Feng Shui practices with modern green design methods, which we call “Green TEA” (Total Environmental Alignment). Green Architecture is a design approach that minimizes the harmful effects on human health and the environment by applying LEED principles and resource efficient materials. STOA’s Green Tea approach aligns the energy and spiritual experience of Feng Shui with the modern ideas of energy efficiency. STOA considers factors such as the size, shape, and layout of the building as well as the landscape and surrounding buildings to create an ideal environment.