v5: How would you characterize the design process that you use within your studio today?

LOH: I have always painted. I have been an artist for years. Through that process I always like to do concept drawings in watercolors and other mediums. Even though my office is now almost completely computer aided, we still begin the design process through sketches and watercolors.

I am interested in the capabilities of programs such as Photoshop and Form-Z in that they can help convey ideas to clients and help in the design process. As an example, when designing an interior space, I tend to photograph the existing space then sketch through watercolors how I would like the space to be. I then, through photoshop, render different materials and architectural possibilities for the space. Clients like this because it helps them visualize what is to be built.

v5: Is there then a three-dimensional model constructed in the computer?
 

LOH: There is a three-dimensional model constructed as well in Form Z. The first step I do on the projects is to bring the clients into the office and walk them through a Form Z model. That is very important.

v5: Do you then take the three-dimensional computer model back into two-dimensional drawings for the construction documents?

LOH: Generally, yes I do. In terms of the plans, sections and elevations, I certainly do. It makes it very efficient.  On the Kelly project,  I started out with sketches and modeling it in the computer, then we presented it to the clients with plans. We worked both in Micro Station and Powercadd in terms of the working drawings.

v5: Do the contractors ever want to get their hands back on the three-dimensional artifact?

LOH: Yes, they definitely pinned them up! (laughs) With that project, the contractor was Michael McDowell, a wonderful builder.  As ever, a project that really works tends to be a project where the contractor is equally as committed and interested in the details. On the Kelly project, if there was an issue that came up, he always talked to me about it.  He pinned up the Form Z renderings while the job was under construction, so he could refer to them.

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Freund - Koopman Residence. View of glass library

Freund - Koopman Residence. View  through bridge.

Freund - Koopman Residence. Library interior.

Freund - Koopman Residence. View of Master bedroom / Library .

Goldhammer Residence. View toward the bedroom wing. Form Z drawing/model.