Studio Gustavo A. López, LLC

Q: Why should I hire an Architect?

A: There are legal requirements, in addition to practical and subjective considerations. Some projects do not require an Architect and can be built with the assistance of a licensed home-builder and/or draftsman. Below are several things to think about so you can make an informed decision.   

• Washington State law requires an Architect for the following:
  • Residential buildings and structures larger than 4000 SF
  • All non-residential buildings 
  • Multi-family residences with more than 4 dwelling units (including townhouses and rowhouses)  
  • Tenant Improvements (TI’s) over 4000 SF or that involve structural, life-safety, fire-safety, change of use, change of occupancy. 
  • Please check the laws specific to your state.
• An Architect:
  • Has the education, training, experience, and vision to lead the full design and construction process, transforming your needs and desires into custom prototypes specific to you and your lifestyle.
  • Creates cohesive total environments, interior and exterior.   
  • Is trained to lead a team and work with builders and a variety of specialty consultants and engineers. 
  • Is trained in the history, philosophy, and art of the built environment.
  • Assures your project complies with applicable building codes and zoning regulations.
  • Addresses sustainability and other technical issues. 
  • Can save you money. An Architect can seem expensive in the near term. Here’s why they are a good long-term investment.
    • Good design sells. A building that’s designed well retains a higher resale value because it functions better and is a joy to experience. 
    • A well-planned and well-conceived project is more economical and efficient, both in terms of the construction process and long-term performance. 
    • As a creative problem solver, an Architect can work within your budget requirements.    

Q: What types of clients do you serve?     

A: Ideal clients are creative, decisive, and multi-disciplinary. They are deep-thinking, process-oriented, and ready for a creative journey.     

Q: What geographic areas do you serve?

A: SGL is based in Walla Walla, WA, but the studio welcomes regional and national inquiries.      

Q: What style of architecture do you do?

A: The word Style means different things to different people, and is a loaded concept. Therefore, SGL avoids labeling its work in this way. Here are the philosophical underpinnings of SGL’s creative process:   

• Client: each project is tailored to the needs, desires, and personality of its client or client entity, creating a custom design solution unique to each. 
• Program: each project emerges from the specific programmatic elements outlined by the client.   
• Site: each project emerges from the opportunities, limitations, special features, and unique characteristics of a specific location.    
• Budget: each project strives to work within realistic budget requirements. If there is not a defined budget, SGL can work with the client to establish one. 
• Construction: each project emerges from the realities of the construction process, available materials, and the skill set of its builders. 

Q: What is a building program?

A: A program is a written document outlining the requirements of a project. These requirements can be quantitative, such as the project budget and the number, types, and sizes of rooms. They can also be qualitative and address aesthetics, ambience, and the activities planned for the building. Every program is different; some are quite simple and others are elaborate and complex.      

Q: Do you offer services at different price points?

A: Yes. It is understood that different projects and clients have different financial restrictions. If your project is a good fit, we will establish a fee structure that is mutually agreeable.

Q: How do you determine if a project is a good fit?

A: Timeline, workload, client impact, community impact, creative potential, design opportunities, profitability, business development, etc.   

Q: What types of buildings do you do? 

A: The studio’s experience ranges across many sectors of the building industry and across many scales, although most of the current work is in residential design. Each inquiry is evaluated based on SGL’s expertise and current workload. All inquiries are welcome.

Q: Do you offer design-build services?

A: No, but SGL works closely with builders to meet the project goals. 

Q: Is your work sustainable? 

A: Sustainability is a central value of SGL, and it strives to make each project as sustainable as possible. It strongly recommends sustainable strategies and features to all clients. For a project to truly be sustainable, it requires a deep commitment not only from its design team, but also from its client and builders. We all have a role to play.