While studying for his degree in architecture, Anthony Cerny discovered that architecture is much more involved than just designing and drafting. It's an integration of artistic ideas and technical means to produce a building that is functional, durable and aesthetically pleasing. To further expand his experience and education, Tony studied in Florence, Italy with Kent State's European Program before returning to Medina to establish Architectural Design Studios in 1988. In addition to providing the daily guidance for his own company, Tony is also a member of the American Institute of Architects, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, a member of the Community Design Committee, and a founding member of Medina's Historic Preservation Board. His work, which can be found throughout the community, includes the restoration of the historic Diebel House on North Broadway Street and the Western Reserve Bank Building at the corner of Foote and Medina Roads. Join us as Tony outlines the process of designing a building that responds to a client's needs;
Architectural Design Studios provides highly customized architectural services for commercial, residential, and light industrial clients. We have accomplished a variety of projects ranging in detail and complexity. They include retail stores, office buildings, daycare centers, churches, restoration and renovation projects, even a polymer laboratory, as well as residential homes and additions. Our services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each of our clients. Through our methodology of design, we work with our clients to analyze and document their needs, develop appropriate solutions, and produce the documents which enable their project to be constructed. In conjunction with our architectural services, we also provide planning, restoration, interior, and graphic design services.
Being raised in Medina has given me an appreciation for the community's rich history. This provides the foundation of our preservation and restoration work. We have been very active in the endeavors to maintain the character of Medina's Public Square District. We have completed numerous renovation projects in the area including the renovation of the old Ziegler's Department Store into Town Square Commons.
Architectural Design Studios provides interior design work in conjunction with many of our commercial projects. By extending our services beyond the strict limits of architecture to address the full extent of issues that impact a project, we are able to provide a consistent, unified approach to the process. Our efforts for many projects start with developing a long range plan for a project or site. This then carries over to the design of the buildings including the integration of the structure and infrastructure. In many cases, we will expand these services to include interiors and graphic design. By bringing all of these elements together, we create projects that are unified in thought and consistent in design. For example, our work with the Western Reserve Bank included not only the site and building design, but also the design of the interior decor, signage, and graphics.
Our residential work encompasses both new single family homes and additions to existing homes. These projects can range in size from a bathroom or kitchen remodel to new homes, some of which are more than 10,000 square feet in size. The challenge of additions is integrating the new structure into the overall design of the building, blending and making it appear as part of the original.
We strive to produce a product that is consistent with the goals and needs of the client. Rather than designing buildings that reflect our aesthetic goals, we work to respond to the issues that are important to our clients. We are facilitators, guiding our clients through the process of designing their own building. We have the understanding and expertise to assist the client in resolving functional and aesthetic issues, melding these with means and materials necessary to construct the building. Our experience in working very closely with many contractors provides us with a unique perspective on practical and cost effective building methods. Great attention and consideration are directed toward determining the best means by which to accomplish the construction of our designs.
The most important thing to remember when planning a project is to allow ample time for the initial phase, the interaction process between the client and architect. Whether we are designing a home, office, factory, or any other project for a client, the client is actually the expert in determining their needs. We provide suggestions and show them alternatives, but they are the ones who must delineate these needs and goals. We assist them in the process and show them how to respond to their requirements through the architecture. The more time spent assessing the project needs, the better the final results.
As Harold E. Wagoner so eloquently stated, "The greatest thing about being an architect is you can walk into your dreams." Walk into your dreams by calling Architectural Design Studios today and don't forget to tell them that The Advocate sent you!
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