Many elements combine in making a house a home. Architecturally, the residence needs to fit into its neighborhood and optimize the location's natural beauty. A sensitive architectural design extols its setting to bring continual joy and enchantment to the owners.
"In this area, almost all residential sites offer a beautiful view, whether ocean or lake, and most properties feature our much-loved Live Oaks," said Chad Goehring, principal of the local architecture firm Harrison Design.
Richard Leo Johnson
An idyllic view from the back porch of a Harrison Design home on Sea Island.
For Goehring, who is currently an associate member of the American Institute of Architects, one of the most exciting steps in designing a new home is seeing the property for the first time. He prefers visiting the site with the new owners to learn what attracted them to the location and how it embodies their dreams and desires.
While strolling the lot, he observes the clients' engagement with the environment and also evaluates the contextual considerations for the future residence. Goehring likes to hear the owners' priorities in terms of the setting. From this information, he devises the house's program, which ultimately becomes its design.
Gil Stose
The curve of the water’s edge echoes the natural Sea Island landscape.
A successful residential design suits the location as well as the clients’ personalities and budget. Within the architecture, Harrison Design creates "wow" moments that will continually reward and inspire those who reside in the home.
Mali Azima
Live Oaks dramatically frame this cottage-style home in Frederica.
"The ideal situation is when we can be involved even before the clients buy the lot," explained Goehring. "That allows us to evaluate whether the property is best suited for their desired plans, and we can help them visualize how their final home might look." Harrison Design's site analysis might identify potential shortcomings of the property, leading to finding a more ideal location.
Richard Leo Johnson
Two front oaks dictated the location of this Hampton Point residence.
Harrison Design is a full-service architecture, interior design and landscape architecture firm. Founded in Atlanta in 1991, the company has seven offices across the U.S. and a studio in Shanghai. Its residential expertise encompasses a range of architectural styles, from traditional to modern. The firm’s commercial work includes condominium developments, churches, hospitality and assisted-living communities. Even after 12 years on St. Simons Island, the professionals at Harrison Design find every project to be unique, and exciting.
Harrison Design is located at 60 Cinema Lane #130 on St. Simons Island. They can be reached by phone at 912.634.9603 or visit their website at harrisondesign.com.
