Architecture Awards 2020

2020 Architecture Awards BUILD 29 project, to ensure the client is in control of every cost and design decision. It is the recommendations and positive reviews from the broad base of references that the firm displays with pride on sites such as Angie’s List, Houzz, Consumer Checkbook, Yelp and Google that allows the firm to maintain its distinguished reputation. While these platforms also allow criticism to be published about the company, Ballard + Mensua utilise this constructively, resolving the issues presented to ensure their high level of customer satisfaction never falters. While many companies across the globe have suffered the detrimental effects of Covid-19, Ballard states that while there was an initial slow period and a slight decrease in overall numbers, families being in lockdown together has resulted in an increased productivity in certain projects and decisions. Whether it be putting in a pool or buying land outside the city so as to escape the denser population, the pandemic has not done much to slow this firm down. Indeed, their latest project was both challenging and exciting; a couple passionate about woodwork hired Ballard + Mensua for their 8,000 square foot custom home in McLean, Virginia, after recognising the skilled woodwork in the “Carpenter’s Challenge” displayed on the firm’s website. They hired the carpenter of the project, Gerry Staley, for their own, offering him an even larger challenge, featuring a timber stair tower with custom newell posts and octagon timber ceiling, and a great room with Biltmore inspired timber trusses and timber frame. The site itself proved initially challenging, with a river running straight through it, but, with some reworking, the drainage issues were resolved, and the outside area was enhanced by a beautiful surrounding landscape that provides an oasis to escape the city. As they move into multi-family residential designs and continue to undertake other projects, such as the renovation of an 1815 historic farmhouse on the Potomac River, there is no doubt that exciting times lie ahead for Ballard + Mensua Architecture. Company name: Ballard + Mensua Architecture Contact name: Seth Ballard Web Address: www.ballardmesua.com