INDUSTRY PROFILES
ARCHITECTS + ARCHETYPES Dissatisfied with the design work being performed in the building industry, Buz Morris (originally a contractor) entered the Architecture School at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte. Upon winning the Design Week Competition in 1998, Buz was offered an internship position at Gwathmey Siegel & Associates Architects in New York City. Working directly under Charles Gwathmey for four years designing houses and commercial buildings for clients such as Michael Dell, Jerry Seinfeld, and the Guggenheim Museum, Buz honed his craft and prepared to open his own firm in Charleston, which he did successfully in 2004.
▲ Buz Morris of Morris Architecture & Construction What about architecture appeals to you? Architecture is the ultimate expression of art. The process of creating architecture—dreaming, planning, designing, and ultimately building a space or structure to reflect a client’s wishes and needs—is deeply fulfilling to me.
What makes Morris Architecture & Construction a unique firm? The term architecture is Greek for ‘master builder.’ I am a licensed and registered architect and builder affiliated with the American Institute of Architects. Morris Architecture is a unique firm in that we, through Morris Construction, also provide building services. We see
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this as a direct advantage for the owner as it tends to reduce fees and streamline the designbuild process.
Did you always know that you wanted to be an architect? I have always been an architect at heart. As a child, I was very analytical and always aware of the aesthetic. I attribute that to my travels through Europe with my mother, observing art and architecture at a very young age.
Do you have any tips for homeowners looking to choose an architect? That’s simple. If you think hiring a professional is expensive, try hiring an amateur. For more information, call Morris Architecture & Construction at (843) 577-8010 or visit morrisaandc.com.