Brad DeMotte graduated in 1986 from Kansas State University’s College of Architecture, which is currently ranked one of the top 10 architecture schools in the United States.
He began his career working for a prestigious architectural firm, where for 4 years he honed his skills in residential architecture. Once becoming a licensed architect in 1990, he founded DeMotte Architects and has continued to build a thriving practice ever since. He holds licenses in both New York and Connecticut, with the majority of his work being located throughout Westchester County , N.Y. and Fairfield County, CT.
Over the past 2 decades, the firm has created or renovated more than 400 residences throughout the area ranging from small additions to large custom homes in a wide range of styles.
In a word, residential design.
Mr. DeMotte has been practicing architecture almost exclusively with a focus on residential design, which he developed a passion for and which is apparent in his enthusiasm he brings to each and every project. He always strives to produce excellent work and provide outstanding service, and he is known for creating homes and spaces of simplicity, grace & beauty, not being limited to a single style.
Listening: By carefully listening to his client’s needs and dreams and drawing on his own experience and a well-honed sense of scale and proportion, Mr. DeMotte creates stylish, elegant spaces which often exceed his client’s expectations. This often requires filtering through conflicting issues, reading between the lines and interpreting the clients’ preferences, which requires excellent problem solving skills and makes for a very personal process with the clients.
Attention to detail: Even the smallest of projects receive the same personal attention to detail, as Mr. DeMotte is intimately involved in each and every project. Renovations, additions and new houses are all treated with the same thoughtful approach, regardless of scale or budget. He has a passion for architecture which is seen in the meticulous attention to detail he devotes to every design and all construction details.
DeMotte Architects has experience in a wide range of styles ranging from colonial, shingle style, farmhouse, arts and crafts and modern houses.
The design principles and philosophy remain the same, regardless of style. Even a new house that appears old should be constructed with modern amenities and incorporate the latest materials and technologies. There should be a seamless integration of today’s technology and convenience with the warmth of yesterday’s time-honored aesthetic.
A well-designed house should be timeless in design, not dated or trendy. The firm resists being limited to 1 style or producing a “signature” style.
Each design shall be a response to the site as every site is different, whether responding to a view, a neighbor or the terrain.
Context is equally important. Whether taking cues from the existing house (if adding on) or from the immediate neighborhood or from the region in general, the house should blend into its’ surroundings and fit the site. A well-design addition should look as if it had always been there.
The firm’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in the historic tradition of architecture which draws on the classical proportion and scale of the past, but also looks towards the future. The firm’s goal is to produce timeless architecture that requires a commitment and passion from all those involved in the project.
The firm is committed to the continual improvement of their design skills and knowledge of construction, as new materials continually come on the market and as building science evolves, they better understand how buildings behave. They believe in the idea that every project should be better than the last project, in a quest to continually better their design skills and deepen their knowledge of construction.
Each project is a unique synthesis of the client’s needs, their site and the firm’s ever-expanding knowledge of current design and construction. It is important for the firm to understand the client’s everyday life, their needs and their lifestyle so they can design a house which responds to it. The firm welcome a high level of client participation, as they believe the more a client is involved in the process the more successful the project will be in meeting or exceeding their expectations.
The firm believes that creating a new residence or renovating an existing home should be an exciting and rewarding endeavor for the client. Working in close collaboration with their clients, the firm brings creativity, flexibility and attention to detail and along with the client’s vision they create unique homes of great value.
The firm provides a wide range of architectural services tailored to the client’s needs and budget, ranging from feasibility studies to conceptual design sketches to construction supervision.
While all projects usually require the same “basic services” to design the project and complete the construction drawings, the firm can be as involved in a project during construction as desired by the client. These services range from helping select interior finishes and providing interior details to overseeing a project during construction to insure that the construction is being executed according to the design. The firm’s involvement doesn’t necessarily end when the drawings are completed, and their involvement during the construction phase can be invaluable.
We Believe
That a well-designed home should have a charm and elegance that is appealing and comfortable. Good architecture should be emotional; it should evoke old memories and create new ones.
That each new project we design should be better than those before, as with each project we expand our technical knowledge and design abilities.
That each home should be a reflection of the owners; it should be a unique and personal design that is an extension of who and what they are.
That problems should be seen from multiple perspectives in order to find the best practical yet creative solution.
That the emphasis of the design should be on the “quality of space”, not the quantity; this is an inherent, basic principle of good design.
That architects have an extremely important role and responsibility to design thoughtful, well-crafted and beautiful structures that enhance the natural landscape and will become part of the environment for years to come.
Most Rewarding Projects
Those that present a challenge in terms of a complex design, which forces us to think “outside the box” and push ourselves to find creative solutions.
Designing homes for people is a very personal process. Every project is rewarding when the clients needs have been met and dreams fulfilled, as their happiness is the key to our success; it is truly gratifying.
Those projects that have very involved, enthusiastic clients who truly have the same passion for design that we do. The most enjoyable part of designing houses is collaborating with clients and seeing their dreams realized.
We believe our office has the talent, resources and experience to excel in the practice of architecture in all its facets; compelling design, technical expertise and flawless execution.
We have developed an excellent reputation among clients, builders and town professionals which is built on trust and confidence in our knowledge and ability.
We can provide the unique design and superb detailing that will set your home apart from the rest. We have an impressive portfolio of distinguished projects and a long list of satisfied clients.
Our clients appreciate our ability to help balance their budget with their own priorities and goals, which often times are in conflict. We understand construction costs and make every effort to design accordingly.
Architecture at its core is a problem solving process. We are known for our ability to take a difficult site and consider all of the issues and concerns, and then produce an innovative and gracious design that addresses all of the issues, solves all the problems and is a work of art as well.
We know what we do best, and we don’t try to be all things to all people. We will turn down work if we feel that it is outside of our comfort zone or if there is not a good fit with the client. What we do best is provide great design, excellent construction drawings and exceptional service.
