I posed five post questions to each and everyone of us involved in the project. At least the people that were involved day to day. Each of the five questions were unique to that person and are intended to give more information to you and anyone considering, wondering or dreaming of building that modern home.

Russ was the first to deliver his answer and was incredibly insightful. Just another reason why we love Russ.

Question One : : :
The “Florian Hart Residence” is now finished. Having had a little time away from it, are there any spaces or moments that you really like? Set it apart from other homes – modern or traditional?

The short answer is that I like all the spaces in your house. The reason I choose to only do modern architecture is because it constantly challenges your assumptions and preconceived notions about habitable spaces. It’s kind of like when you hear a song from an obscure artist that becomes your favorite song ever, and you think “I can’t believe this isn’t the most loved song in the world.” The great thing about modern architecture is that it uncovers another completely viable, and often more attractive side, of architecture that you might not have known existed unless you were brave enough make the commitment to build modern. So, all that said I love your house in its entirety. 

Question Two : : :
You were brought into the building of this home close to a quarter of the way through the process. Having been in the construction industry before this project did you ever expect the amount of obstacles you would have to face? What were some of the hardest to deal with?

Honestly, no. Before I built your house I built hospitals in a big money, commercial type environment. I thought that I had built the hardest building you could build. I was wrong.  In the commercial construction world sub-contractors are used to doing whatever the drawing says, no matter what. But the residential world is quite different. The technical aspect of your house was not the challenge. The real challenge was finding residential sub-contractors who were willing to venture outside of their everyday routine and explore new techniques (on a budget). The other challenge was to get them to finish the job once they realized they were in uncharted waters.  If you have an unlimited budget that’s probably not that big of a deal, but very few people have that. Sidenote: those subs are out there, it just takes while to find them.

Question Three : : :
What in your opinion is that different about building modern versus traditional?

I think building modern is much more fun and rewarding than building traditional.  (See answer to question 1) 

Question Four : : :
What are a few tips for anyone who is considering building a modern home?

My biggest tip is this: First, have every aspect of the project specified before the project starts (like in a commercial project). Second, have a complete budget in place that reflects ACTUAL QUOTES FROM SUB-CONTRACTORS.  Third, have contracts with all of your major sub-contractors (foundation, framing, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, drywall, etc…) before the project starts. And finally have team meetings with arch, gc, and owner at least every 2-4 weeks.  In short what I’m saying is have a pre-construction phase.  Many residential builders do not do this because they are so used to the traditional building formula. Building modern is different in every way, so these steps are essential to a successful project. The more pre-planning, the better.

Question Five : : :
What is next for you and the Jackson Company? What would you like to be doing, more modern homes?

What’s next? Yes, any future homes I build will be modern. Right now I’m keeping myself busy with designing and installing rainwater collection systems. For some reason I have a bizarre attachment to really big jugs of water.