CUSTOM DESIGN: “Period Architecture considers the character of a region to unite architectural traditions of the past with contemporary lifestyle and technology. Our clients are looking for timeless design, and our designs transcend period styles and trends.” The architects at Period Architecture, 53 Church Road in Malvern, Pa., are proud of the variety and high quality of their work, including such projects as the state-of-the-art residential interiors and exteriors shown here.

By Jean Stratton

Designs that stand the test of time…

Custom quality designs dedicated to providing style with a statement…

Designs that are unique and yet appropriate to the surrounding  landscape…

This is the hallmark of Period Architecture.

Opened in 2010 in Malvern, Pa., by co-founder and President Joseph Mackin Jr. and co-founder and Vice President Jeffrey Dolan, the firm is known for its ability to work in a number of different styles and periods of architecture. It can create designs rooted in time-honored traditions that will accommodate 21^st-century lifestyles.

“Our goal is to remain an advocate for enduring architectural design and create beautifully livable spaces for our clients,” explains Jessica Fogle, associate principal and marketing director. “Working with the existing landscape allows a new home to look and feel as if it has always been there. In homes with unique features, finding cohesion with the surroundings is imperative to ensuring a timeless design.”

High Quality

The firm’s diversified projects include new homes, renovations, restorations, additions, barns, and property planning. The main focus is residential work, but it has also designed custom commercial buildings and event centers. Restoration and renovation account for the majority of the designs.

A historic, high quality design aspect that is appropriate to modern lifestyles is appealing to many clients, points out Mackin. “Our clients appreciate quality of craftsmanship, beautiful millwork, and blending classic details with modern technology and comforts like open kitchens and large master suites. Specifically, there is more emphasis on a need for outdoor living like covered porches, terraces or even ‘follies’ (decorative structures in a garden or backyard) in the landscape to get outside and enjoy nature, no matter the weather.”

“It always takes creativity to combine modern technology with enduring design,” he continues, “and we appreciate our clients’ vision and trust in our process.”

Accommodating clients’ special requests and specific needs is another specialty of Period Architecture, adds Dolan. And that can include cozy niches for their four-footed companions.

“Clients are always looking to customize their spaces for their everyday lifestyles,” he reports. “For many, that means incorporating pet-friendly areas like dog showers in mudrooms, specific spaces for crates, even a separate kitchen to prepare dog food.

“In other homes, we have added fully-equipped spas with saunas, cold plunge pools, steam showers, and massage rooms. When given the opportunity, clients enjoy dedicating a whole room to a hobby like an art studio or toy train exhibition.”

Regional Styles

Period Architecture’s work is seen along the East Coast and beyond, with the majority of projects in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Other designs, however, are visible from Connecticut to Florida and Ohio and Indiana to Wyoming, and other states.

“What is great about our process is that the planning and research into the area allows us to easily blend our design to match our regional styles,” points out Fogle. “The project we designed in Wyoming was a barn-like structure, so we could take cues from our experience on the East Coast and apply those methods of design with a slight twist.”

As in all areas of life today, COVID-19 is a factor at Period Architecture, and the emphasis on operating virtually has become the norm.

“Thankfully, with access to virtual technology, we have been able to continue to present and communicate with clients regularly,” says Fogle. “Meetings via Zoom are becoming the new normal, and with the digital rendering technology we’ve always utilized, it’s easier than ever for clients to visualize what their finished space will look like without having to make the trip into our office.”

“Our business has remained steady throughout 2020,” adds Mackin. “We are keeping our eyes and ears open to changes that may be on the horizon for home design. This year has given us a glimpse into what work/ life balance may look like in the future. We think there will be a renewed importance of dedicated workspaces, like home offices, since modern technology makes working from home more convenient.

“Smart home technology has really taken off in the last few years. Clients now have the ability to control their entire home with their phone or by speaking to a device. It’s becoming a new standard in modern living.”

Extensive Experience

Working with clients and helping them to realize their dream is the architects’ greatest pleasure, observes Dolan, and their extensive experience is very important in overcoming any hurdles along the way.

“Acquiring official approval from local commissions, townships, or county review boards for construction of new homes or renovations can seem daunting to some clients,” he explains. “But since we have been in business for 10 years, we have built the relationships and know what to do to ease this part of the process.”

The company has established an outstanding reputation in its field and has received awards from such organizations as the Pennsylvania Historic Preservation, West Chester Bricks & Mortar, Society of American Registered Architects, and Fine Homebuilding. It has been recognized regularly with regional home tours. Its designs have also been published in New Old House, Period Homes, Elle Decor, and Equestrian Living magazines.

Period Architecture is affiliated with The American Institute of Architects, The American Institute of Architects Philadelphia Chapter, The Athenaeum of Philadelphia, Institute of Classical Architecture & Art, and Society of American Registered Architects.

Inventive Designs

The firm’s inventive designs, whether historical, transitional, or contemporary, continually attract new clients. With people traveling less and spending more time at home, the desire for a congenial atmosphere that integrates family life, entertaining, and indoor and outdoor living will only increase.

“Our clients are what set us apart from other architectural firms,” says Fogle. “We love and appreciate working with clients who have a vision and allow us to translate and expand upon it to create something truly unique. By listening to their wants and needs, we are able not only to create a beautiful space but build a team of professionals to take their project through to the finish line. Our collaboration doesn’t stop at design; we ensure that our clients have the best builders, interior designers, landscape architects, and craftsmen to bring their vision to life.

“I love the technical side of what we do,” she continues. “It’s like a puzzle. Finding a way to combine the client’s vision with the site or existing structure is one piece; but also ensuring that the look and style conform to regional styles can be another piece to figure out.

“Our office environment is really collaborative. We always look forward to working together, and we are supportive of one another and each project. We love what we do!”

For further information, call (610) 719-0101. Visit the website at www.periodarchitectureltd.com.