designing
future:
for the
Aspen’s Next Generation of Architects In a community known for its arts and culture, it’s no surprise that Aspen boasts more architects per capita than any other comparably sized locale. While the number of choices for architects can be daunting, the opportunity to choose from so many talented and creative minds is equally invigorating. In this issue, Western Home Journal profiles five young architects who represent the next generation of design in Aspen. Some are modernists and some love tradition. Some prefer residential work, while others have made their mark in public projects. However all are passionate about architecture and focused on their clients. They bring an exceptional attention to detail and creativity to their work and it shows.
[ FROM LEFT Robert Sinclair, Seth Hmielowski, Bill Pollack, Dylan Johns, and David Johnston ]
designing
future:
for the
Aspen’s Next Generation of Architects In a community known for its arts and culture, it’s no surprise that Aspen boasts more architects per capita than any other comparably sized locale. While the number of choices for architects can be daunting, the opportunity to choose from so many talented and creative minds is equally invigorating. In this issue, Western Home Journal profiles five young architects who represent the next generation of design in Aspen. Some are modernists and some love tradition. Some prefer residential work, while others have made their mark in public projects. However all are passionate about architecture and focused on their clients. They bring an exceptional attention to detail and creativity to their work and it shows.
[ FROM LEFT Robert Sinclair, Seth Hmielowski, Bill Pollack, Dylan Johns, and David Johnston ]
Range of Influence Our work at RGS Architecture is influenced by traditional concepts of symmetry and balance, but each project presents an exciting opportunity for us to create something new.
What concepts inform your residential and commercial work?
I studied architecture in Florence, Italy during graduate school. During that time, I saw with new eyes the power of architecture and design, be it ancient or modern, to influence our world. As such, RGS Architecture constantly strives to design structures where function intelligently follows form, honors history, and sustainable technology solutions are integrated throughout.
Describe your business.
Our firm consists of a team of professionals with broad and accomplished skill sets. There isn’t a project that we can’t undertake, be it residential, commercial, restaurant or hospitality. With projects nationwide, we are a regionalist firm relying on local context blended with the client program and aesthetic goals to inform our architectural vocabulary. We enjoy designing all types of projects, from traditional to very modern, and our clients appreciate our range. For us, each project brings an opportunity to explore a new solution and to develop a new design standard and set of details. As such, we almost never reuse details from one project to the next.
What are your clients asking for now?
Most of our younger clients want contemporary, minimalist architecture. Designing a modern home in a mountain setting can present unique opportunities. Our solution engages the surrounding environment by utilizing regional materials like stone and wood, and bringing in an abundance of glass and glazing details. We also have many clients who are very traditional and want the comfort of more classically designed spaces.
How does modern architecture assimilate in this environment?
Modern architecture succeeds because of its ability to invite the outside in. Creating expandable, livable space, both inside and out, makes such a difference in this environment. We like to design spaces where, even in midwinter, the doors and windows can be left wide open. Everyone wants the ability to experience the natural beauty of this place.
Robert Sinclair
Robert G. Sinclair Architecture, Inc.