PHOTOGRAPHY: M-BUCK STUDIO
In the past, architecture has been defined as a vocation, a field of both technical and creative study, and a conduit in which an individual can impact lives and leave a legacy. Yet, its potential to influence, create, inspire, disrupt, and include speaks to a larger import than a simple, concrete interpretation. Its significance is elusive, fluid, and subjective; as varied as the talented minds and hands practicing the craft in the region, building upon the existing built fabric and landscape.
In this continued series, Great Lakes By Design magazine had an opportunity to learn more about some of the architects practicing in the Great Lakes region—and what drives them to create inspired spaces and places.
For Brian Barkwell, AIA, principal architect at Via Design Inc. in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the path to his architectural future first began at the drafting table in his grandfather’s home office.
For Louis DesRosiers, president at DesRosiers Architects in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, architecture is a family affair. It is a vocation—and inspired, creative endeavor—that has been a part of his family for generations and as he noted, a trait of heritage.
“I used to think of my buildings and architecture as my children. The younger version of me—the pre-married version of me, the pre-father version of me—used to look at architecture differently. I used to think I was leaving a legacy of buildings behind,” said Matthew Gerard, AIA, architect and designer at Visbeen Architects LLC in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Roughly nine years ago, Elaine Keiser, AIA, NCARB, president and principal at Elaine Keiser Architect Inc., stood in the halls of the recently completed Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians Murray Road Housing Project and knew she could never look at a project the same way.
In every project, Thomas R. Mathison, FAIA, principal and co-founder of Mathison | Mathison Architects in Grand Rapids, Michigan, considers the interrelationship of spatial quality and how it impacts people—namely how to enhance overall wellbeing.
First published in Great Lakes By Design, Volume 2, Issue 6: Architectonics