I am pleased to have the opportunity to recommend the best architect I know, Bill DeMaio..Since this format requires a project date, I am listing the most current, but I have worked with Bill DeMaio on eleven projects over the course of the past twenty years and wish to speak about my experience over time.
The projects have been varied in nature and cost. The tasks have ranged from with historic preservation to residential renovation to new residential and commercial construction. Most project costs have ranged from $100,000 to $300,000.
With Bill’s guidance, I renovated two historic properties in West Virginia. The first involved adding a large gathering room to an 1890s farmhouse operating as a bed and breakfast. The end result was a seamless addition which looked as if it had been there since the house was built. The second was the renovation of a general store circa 1896. This building was subsequently listed on the National Register of Historic Places, thanks to his attention to historic detail and ability to update while retaining the ambience of the period.
Over the years, Bill has designed a number of new cabins for me which were used as rentals or sold to people who wanted second homes in the mountains. He has a keen sense of what people want in a vacation home. At the same time, he is mindful of budget limitations on all projects and is able to create a desirable product at a reasonable cost. He does not sacrifice quality but often suggests less expensive ways to achieve a look I want.
One of Bill’s special strengths is that he works well with contractors—even those who are initially apprehensive about working with an architect. He wins them over as soon as they see that he treats them with respect and values their expertise and experience.
In 2011, Bill designed a 2,000 sq. ft. yoga studio for me in West Virginia. That studio has become something of a community center in the area. The interior is welcoming, light filled, and has clean lines; the exterior is attractive and was designed to fit the rural setting and proximity to other farm and historic buildings.
This year, Bill is designing an addition to and renovation of a home I have in Florida. As always, I am impressed with his ideas and his communication skills. One of the qualities I value most is his capacity to really listen to the client and to understand how that client will live or work in the structure he designs. He has infinite patience, is not prescriptive, and helps you get where you want to go. I always learn something. He thinks in a way I would not; he helps me sort out my priorities and stay within my budget. I recommend him without reservation and would consider any client fortunate to have his help.
