2014 Benjamin James Eisinger

When I first began my project, my intent was to re-imagine modern architecture and blend it with a more traditional style in order to create the perfect mix of the two through a series of blueprints. During the early stages of my undertaking, I expected it to be a fun, educational way to cultivate my passion for design. However, it turned out to be much more involved than a relaxed summer diversion. Luckily for me, I was assisted by a seasoned professional, Carl Lounsbury, Architectural Historian at Colonial Williamsburg, who provided me with some much needed guidance as well as the knowledge and insight you would expect from an expert of his caliber. During the first meeting with my mentor, I explained what my goals were and how I planned to accomplish them. Mr. Lounsbury immediately set down some guidelines regarding how I should go about this. Following this, I set out to learn as much as I possibly could about Early American Architecture - from bricklaying patterns to shingle designs to shutter styles. This endeavor wasn’t exactly Mission: Impossible, as I live in the backyard of one of our country’s most historically significant settlements that exemplifies traditional architecture: Colonial Williamsburg. The area also has an abundance of structures dating back to the time period that I was focusing on. I utilized my talent of drawing and a newly trained eye to notice and sketch details that the average observer most likely wouldn’t catch.

During this project, I picked up on some equally important rules too, which I like to call the “Four Essential Elements.” All architects must keep these components in mind in order to be successful when designing a structure. The first category, topography, states that one must know the property that they are building on, such as its proximity to the road, and any natural factors that may come into play. These include water sources, cliffs, vistas, and much more. Next, the direction of the house, or the “orientation to sunlight”, as Mr. Lounsbury phrased it, is key to a client’s satisfaction. The third element is made up of any existing codes. Some examples are size, number of stories, and materials. Finally, the last category, environment, consists of how efficient and “green” the house is.

Upon completing that portion of my project, I looked through a drawer of some of my old designs for homes to try to find a good base for a traditional home that could be spiced up with some contemporary flare. I found one particular drawing that fit nearly every one of my requirements. I began working on the blueprints for the residence, trying to incorporate as many aspects as I could from Colonial Architecture. Although words really cannot do justice to any drawing no matter how grand or humble, I would describe my dwelling as being an elegant, yet practical home with lots of windows and a light, airy feel. I integrated numerous columns, a large portico, and multiple pediments into my design as well because traditional architecture is in many ways inspired by that of the Greeks. I added a stately double staircase in the foyer and a couple of tasteful two sided fireplaces for a more contemporary look. Finally, a stucco and brick combination tied the exterior of the house together and gave it great curb appeal.

I appreciated the opportunity that HRA gave me to pursue a field of learning that really interests me. Throughout the course of this project it became clear to me that architecture is more than just designing cool floor plans of dream homes. To be a capable architect-or anything for that matter-one must take everything into account. Overall, I really and enjoyed increasing my knowledge on this subject and doing so in a hands-on manner.