About James Allison

I find design inspiration in history, nature and in the people I serve.

History. When clients describe their goals, I'm listening to whether they're traditionalists or modernists. Maybe there are cultural influences to consider. My personal preference is for the streamlined 1920s-30s, however, client desires always come before mine.
 
Nature. One of my goals is for your home to blend with it's setting, so I'll visit a future homesite to begin the process. Onsite, I imagine the home positioned to maximize your preferences for view or privacy. Also, I listen to the surroundings to get a feel for what belongs on site.
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Clients. I listen deeply from the start. Some say they want a completely different style of home from their present one, however, experience has shown that as a project progresses and ideas materialize, some realize that what they dreamed of living in is not as comfortable as the old familiar. Change on this level is challenging for most.

In the first meeting, I want to get to know you and "how you live". I’ll take in how you’ve decorated and the way you use your space. An existing home sometimes accurately tells me who you are design-wise, sometimes not. I need to make sure that what I’m seeing is what you intended to create. Often times, prior designers impose their preferences and yours remain hidden. I'll listen closely to ensure your preferences come to life.

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Member, AIBD

American Institute of Building Design