Modern Architect Spotlight: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA
By Ron Mangas, Jr. listModern
Next in our series is Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, whose work has won more than 370 local, regional, and national design awards. His modern residential and commercial projects are meticulously detailed, with interior spaces reflective of the firm’s commitment to design excellence.
1.What was your firm's first built project?
My first significant built project was a row house renovation in Adams Morgan. I had the opportunity to work with fantastic, trusting clients who embraced a project that was ambitious and creative, but not typical for a Washington, DC row house at the time. The house received an AIA National Honor Award and was featured on “Good Morning America.”
2. How would you describe identifiable or signature qualities of your work, and are they intentionally unique?
Our work is pragmatic. It is modern, ordered, light-filled, and site-responsive. It is simultaneously complex and distilled. We are equally comfortable designing urban projects, houses in the country, houses
on the water and suburban houses.
3. Working in the Nation's Capital undoubtedly presents unique architectural challenges and rewards. In this regard, describe a project you're particularly proud of.
Historical projects in Washington, DC are some of my favorite projects to work on, especially ones that have high ceilings with significant historical fabric still intact. These projects often become
an exercise in editing details and components of the existing house to remain while weaving in new, modern elements. Our “Renovation on Cox’s Row” Project, located in Georgetown, is a
good example of this.
4. Please share about any particular client or client-driven project criteria that deeply inspired you and if/how that inspiration has influenced your subsequent work.
We encourage client interaction in the design process. An open-minded dialogue yields the most successful projects in an era where risk avoidance and accommodation of mock tradition predominates.
