CONTEXT

• Contextual design at every level. Contextual design takes on multiple meanings at Jones Pierce. We carefully consider context from both exterior and interior standpoints, as well from the perspective of our clients’ preferences, lifestyles, budgets and other needs. The result is design-in-balance that meets the needs—and in fact supports—the environment, the community, the neighborhood and the people who live in the spaces we create.
• Expertise in multiple architectural styles. We pride ourselves on not being constrained to one architectural style. Our extensive experience in working in historical intown neighborhoods has allowed us ample opportunity to explore, research and understand the multitude of styles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Likewise, our collective experiences in commercial work have provided us additional opportunities to explore various aspects of contemporary design. This broad experience gives us the context we need to apply design solutions appropriately to the project at hand.
• Architectural guidelines experience. Jones Pierce’s experience with architectural guidelines and development controls was the genesis for partner Cooper Pierce to co-chair the independent panel sponsored by the Atlanta AIA to assist the City of Atlanta in creating the Infill Development Zoning Ordinance. We have developed a recognized expertise in understanding zoning ordinances of communities in the Atlanta metro area—expertise that comes from education, experience, as well as first-hand use of New Urbanism form-based zoning developed by Andres Duany. Working with a variety of architectural covenants for various communities allows us to not only help neighborhoods address tough infill issues, but enhances our ability to help clients navigate complexities of jurisdictional regulations—setback variances, covenants, historical designation compliance, etc.—to develop their projects.
• Context determines design parameters. Whether new construction or renovation of existing structures, Jones Pierce looks to the surrounding neighborhood or community to understand to what and how the building must relate to determine the appropriate design scale, proportions and massing. In this sense, understanding context predetermines the design parameters to define the building’s compatibility to its environment. Since its inception, Jones Pierce has been known for the ability to integrate our work seamlessly with the surroundings and to create cohesiveness with existing design.
• Interior context. How a space functions and the feel of the interior are as key to client satisfaction as exterior design. Furniture placement, traffic considerations, utility incorporation: Our success in the scrutiny of interior details—in the context of both function and aesthetics—results in spaces that work.
• Importance of context reinforced. Understanding that a contextual approach is vital to good design is reinforced by sustainable design guidelines such as those promoted by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) and adhered to by Jones Pierce Architects. Design criteria for LEED rating credits promote planning based on building orientation, and placement of structures in relation to public transportation and accessibility to community services, daily necessities and retail, as well as the use of local materials and resources.