Honesty In Architecture

One of our core values at A43 Architecture is honesty. ‘Honesty goes beyond transparent business practices and extends into the realm of design. We believe in honest buildings and the honest use of materials.’ But what does Honest Architecture mean exactly? Trey Terral, Project Architect, explains: 

Honesty is a term that we hear used a lot in the design industry. Ironically, it can be pretty difficult to get a clear explanation from the people insisting upon its importance. Terms like this can be helpful as long as we avoid using them as undefined jargon, which only widens the gap between the profession and those we serve. This is unfortunate, because honesty is important. Without it you can end up with results that are awkward, contextually incompatible, or just plain ugly. Without clarity it’s hard to form trust in the architect/client relationship, raising the likelihood of these undesirable results. So, if a client asks us what we mean when we use “honesty” as one of our core values, we are certain to have an answer.

The phrase ‘Honest Architecture’ is most commonly used as shorthand for buildings with exposed structures, or buildings whose finish materials act as integral parts of the building's systems. That could mean exposed structural concrete walls or shiplap wood siding that helps to shed water. It can also mean the use of materials that are left close to their natural form, particularly those that are native to the related region. Similarly, it may refer to architecture that is true to the vernacular forms and traditions of its place. 

In short, "honesty in architecture" can mean virtually anything depending upon your perspective, but for us materiality plays a major role. A43 Architecture considers the following list to be potentially ‘honest’ materials: 

• Natural stone

• Wood siding

• Corten roofing/siding

• Exposed steel

• Exposed Concrete

• Steel structure

• Timber structure

• Mass timber structure

• Rammed Earth

• Exposed Structural joinery

• Load bearing masonry

• Concrete masonry

• Masonry screen

• Perforated metal screen

• Glass walls

These materials act as a palette when designing with honesty as an objective. However, it’s necessary to have intentionality in their implementation to achieve that result. Truthful design is a holistic process that involves much more than checking items off a list, which is why having capable professionals is so important.

Looking to work with a firm that believes in honesty in architecture? Give A43 a call at 307-249-8650.