Alex Schiel sees his surroundings through different eyes than most of us. A second-generation architect, by the time he was six-years-old he knew what his contribution to the world would be: homes and buildings that would fulfill not only their intended function, but also express what was in their owner’s heart. Today, his designs can be seen all over the Park City area.
DCDHOME: What inspired you to become an architect?
Alex schiel: I was born in the Salt Lake area, but soon after that my father’s expertise in architecture had us moving all over the country. I benefited from our travels a great deal by being exposed to so many different regional architectural styles. I was born with a passion for the field, and think I felt as much satisfaction as my Dad did when one of his projects was competed. Looking back, in addition to my father’s influence, I’ve always been fortunate to have many other “masters” lead and push me to new levels of exceptional accomplishment.
DCDH: When a potential client interviews your company, what will they discover about Alex Schiel Architects that makes them different than other architects?
AS: When I reflect on the numerous homes we’ve designed since our start in 1993, what I’m most proud of is our ability to produce a plan that flawlessly integrates the region’s predominant style with the unique aspirations of our clients. For example, Park City is a natural setting for the Mountain Lodge style. However, one of our clients in Deer Valley had spent many years in Hong Kong and Japan, and loved the clean lines of Asian architecture. We designed a home for them that united the two. It was appropriate for their neighborhood while being a distinctive expression of who they were and the lives they had led.
DCDH: What is it in your approach that makes that [appropriate for their neighborhood while being a distinctive expression] the consistent result?
AS: Without question, it’s our firm’s attention to detail. The atmosphere of a home is only partially in the over-arching design, but equally in the placement of the small, integrated details. All of us at ASA are fanatical about our attention to detail.
DCDH: What efforts has Alex Schiel Architects made to forward the “green” movement in building?
AS: From the very beginning we have practiced what we call “common sense green”. Before it was a front-page social concern in the U.S., we watched and learned from our European counterparts who were years ahead in this subject. Low water-waste fixtures, placement of high-performance windows, designing to take advantage of southern exposures, and much more have been a part of our designs from day one. With the growth in availability, variety, and cost effectiveness of green products, we’re very excited about the tremendous advancements in this field and stay well informed about the most up-to-date methods and products.
