Mark Nasrallah interviews with Bontena
Original content and post from Bontena website
The abilities of architects are more than their specializations. An architect, who has chosen to specialize in residential projects, does not keep himself or herself away from different commercial projects. Many architects, who specialized in residential projects, love to design different commercial projects such as office buildings, schools, libraries, and campus buildings. Custom small and large residential projects create most of the portfolio of Mark Nasrallah, but he also prefers to taking part in commercial projects such as restaurant and office buildings. Since its founding in 1983, Nasrallah Architectural Group has been serving its clients in all kinds of architectural subjects. I talked with Mark Nasrallah about his career and the basics of residential projects.
Mark, before talking about architecture, could you tell us about yourself? Who is Mark Nasrallah except for your architectural career?
In my spare time, I try to take time to be with my family. I enjoy any kind of outdoor activity and being on the water. I also race historic Porsches with the Porsche Club of America.
Could you tell us about your educational life and professional career? Why did you decide to establish your own firm?
I attended the University of Florida and graduated in the year of economic downturn. I was lucky enough to be hired as one of the original team for Don Evans group who was a world-renowned architect. After working for him I decided to try out the commercial side of architecture and started at HCP. Once I finished there I decided it was in my general nature to be a leader, teacher, and innovator that could help associates further their careers so I founded the Nasrallah Architectural group.
Could you tell us about Nasrallah Architectural Group and your team?
Our team is small and culturally diverse. We pride ourselves on having a team that can bring vast amounts of experience and lessons to the table from around the world.
What type of projects does Nasrallah Architectural Group specialize in?
Custom residential small and large. Unique commercial projects including restaurants, specialized office buildings, and themed projects.
How could you define your architectural approach?
We look at all aspects of the project including the client needs, style, and function of the building, creativity, budget, and location.
What are the advantages of being an Award-Winning architect? Could you tell us about the awards that you won?
We have received many awards. However, it is more important to us as a firm that our clients are satisfied with the outcome of their project.
Do you still make cardboard models and hand sketches for your projects? Or are all project digitized in every stage?
We mix old school hand renderings with new technology. All of our projects begin with hand sketches because we feel it gives the client a better connection to the project. Then we progress into Computer Aided Design (CAD) for construction documents.
What are the main steps of residential projects? How many months does it take to complete an average residential project?
It depends on the size and complexity of the project. We have had projects that take anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. It also depends on how busy the firm is.
Original content and interview by Botena. Continue reading here: Interview with Mark Nasrallah