By Melody Harclerode
In the July 2014 edition of Forbes magazine, the writer Justin Shabow proclaimed that “architecture is imploding.” Pointing out the flaws of avant-garde designs for the post-Katrina homes in New Orleans, he lamented architects’ lack of confidence, willpower, and flexibility to serve the needs of the public. The writer also criticized deceased architects whose Modernist designs who “had no room for harmony, rhythm, and soul” in their buildings. With this harsh criticism of Modernist architecture, Shabow should explore the designs of firms like the Decatur-based Lightroom.
William “Bill” Carpenter FAIA, PhD, a professor of architecture at Kennesaw State University, started Lightroom in 2002 to redefine the architectural practice. Instead of the traditional focus on only building design, Lightroom would create websites, graphics, branding, and interiors as well as architectural projects giving a one-stop shop for creative design services to prospective clients. He and a team of associates would design Modernist architectural projects with clarity in the use of materials and structural forms, and would produce exceptional websites, graphic design, and interiors. Through engaging the client and understanding the project site, the buildings would contribute to a stronger community. With the growing demand for new websites in the early years of the company, the website and graphics work comprised much of the Lightroom’s business with projects such as fakechecks.org and foodloop.com.
As more Atlantans embrace Modernist architecture since these early years, architectural projects have become a bigger focus of Lightroom. Carpenter happily describes architecture as “the center of Lightroom.” At times, the firm finds sophisticated clients, such as the Village Vets, to take full advantage of its multi-disciplinary design services. The client and its developer asked Lightroom in 2006 to design the company signage and branding, lighting fixtures, furniture, interiors, and a new building. This architectural project would be located in downtown Decatur, a location with an active historic preservation community.
In contrast to Sabow’s critiques of Modernist architecture as an affront to the public will, the Village Vets project received an Award of Excellence from the Decatur Preservation Alliance in 2009. The project fits seamlessly onto the streetscape through its sensible size and the sophisticated use of exterior materials. This building, along with branding reflects Lightroom’s commitment to elegance and a harmonious composition of color. Rather than generalizing Modernist architecture based on the errors of celebrated, but deceased designers, Shabow should talk with the champions of the architecture and visit firms such as Lightroom. Regardless of the project size, these firms strive to serve the public through the creation of excellent designs.
Melody L. Harclerode, AIA, a local architect, promotes the power of architecture and design as the President of the Atlanta chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the Principal of Harclerode Architects (harc-arch.com). For more information, check out aiaatl.org.
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