Architectural Design Works is an architectural partnership that has been in business in Ashland since January of 1977. Jac Nickels, AIA, CSI Architect and W. David Richardson, AIA Architect are the principal partners. Since its inception, the firm has gained a reputation for professional service and tasteful design. Architectural Design Works offers all normal architectural services as well as other services such as Programming, Site Analysis, Energy Analysis and Life Cycle Cost Analysis. For projects with specialized requirements the firm utilizes very capable consultants in fields such as Structural Design, Acoustics, Mechanical Systems, Electrical Systems, Interior Design, Architectural Historic Analysis, Cost Estimating and others.
The firm’s 37 plus years of experience is varied and includes commercial work such as offices, restaurants and retail; institutional work such as schools, gymnasiums, churches, lodges, theaters and banks; medical facilities such as hospitals, medical offices, surgery centers and extended care facilities; travelers accommodations such as motels, inns, bed and breakfasts; industrial work such as factories, production and warehouse facilities; multi-family housing; and custom single family residences. Some of Architectural Design Works’ more recent work includes; The Masonic Lodge in Ashland, The 66 East Main Street Building in Ashland housing the Tudor Guild Gift Shop, The Ashland Cinema Theater, The Bards Inn Motel in Ashland, The Larson Creek Professional Center in Medford, The Surgery Center of Southern Oregon in Medford and the Ashland Middle School Classroom Addition and Gymnasium.
Jac says they are in Ashland because of the community, schools, hospital, theatre and the many different organizations that make Ashland what it is. "It’s all about the quality of life. We do work all over Southern Oregon and Northern California but chooses to keep our office here in Ashland because of what Ashland represents."
Ashland is a small community. "Having lived here for the past 41 years I have developed many connections through the Chamber, the service organizations like the Rotary and the many ties we have with the city, the university, the hospital and the social originations we are involved with here in Ashland aave all contributed to our success." Jac and David are involved in many groups, giving community service as they build and expand friendships.
ADW is a medium size firm in comparison to others in the area. They pride themselves with an ability to interrupt of client’s needs and provide a quality product on time and in budget. Each design is unique to that particular client rather than the “cookie cutter” approach. Many designs share common threads throughout but no two are alike. "That alone with our dedication to provide customer service to each client and treat them as our #1 priority makes us unique and above others in our field of design professionals."
Being in Ashland enhances the creativity of ADW. Jac elaborates, "the Ashland community is a little more progressive that many of its neighboring communities when it comes to creative design. We also tend to lean towards a more “environmental friendly” approach in lieu of traditional design and construction methods." Jac and David wish they could always design for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. "Unfortunately, these certifications come with an associate cost which many of our clients are reluctant to pay. I believe they see the benefits but like everyone else with a budget, the cost doesn’t always justify the means."
The biggest lessons learned in 41 years of practice are to be honest and fair, to be on time and to listen and not talk just to hear your head roar. To understand that everyone has their own opinion and to respect that.
Architectural Design Works Inc.
518 Washington St., Ste. 4, Ashland
http://www.adwarchitect.com/
Photos by Graham Lewis.
