More than just an architect.
OUR RELEVANT AND CREATIVE APPROACH MAKES US MORE THAN JUST AN ARCHITECTURE FIRM.
WE BECOME A TRUSTED PARTNER WHO SHARES YOUR VISION.
Fred Sieracki, owner
Architecture is more of a calling than a profession for Fred Sieracki.
Every time he surveys an area and starts sketching, he knows he’s followed his muse. “I get in the zone. You have make sure everything is technically sound, but at the same time beautiful.”
Fred’s been a licensed architect since 1993 and opened his own practice in Annapolis three years later. After graduating from Dartmouth College in 1980, he focused on urban planning. But he soon realized he wanted to do something different and went to work for an architecture firm. He earned a master’s degree in the discipline from the Catholic University of America in 1987.
“I like to design – envisioning things that aren’t there. It’s what I love to do. Even if I didn’t do it for a living, I’d do it in my spare time.”
His specialty are homes that use historical elements and natural materials with a modern twist – and he’s won local and state awards for his designs. His vision includes making residences as energy efficient as possible. This can impact everything from window choices to outside insulation. Solar panels are yet another option.
“It’s a very exciting time in architecture, to tell the truth,” Fred said. “We’re looking forward to building some interesting homes in the future.”
All this doesn’t mean ignoring the basics. In fact, he’s taught them in classes at his alma mater, as well as Anne Arundel Community College and Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis.
“It makes you break down the process. These projects can be approached so many ways, it’s easy to pass over so many things.”
His firm does most of its work in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County – and his experience is useful in navigating government requirements. He divides projects with his associate of 15 years, Daniel Love.
“We play off each other well and that makes our product superior,” Love said. They met when Daniel was giving a community college presentation, but he was already an admirer. “His work just seemed to be a cut above everyone else’s.”
Fred handles client meetings and most of the design work. Daniel transforms Fred’s drawings into technical documents. They work seamlessly. “After 15 years, we would rival anyone in the game of Pictionary,” Daniel said.
Fred approaches each new project as a problem to be solved. “I’m very good at keeping it all in my head and putting it together for a great solution.”
The process begins with a client consultation, then a site visit and sketches and drawings. Fred next consults with Daniel, who produces construction documents used to get the necessary permits.
“There are a lot of nuts and bolts guys in architecture,” Fred said. “I’m good at that, but I’m also a good designer.”
Once building begins, Fred serves as construction administrator, observing work and troubleshooting problems. “You’re putting an expert in your corner to advocate for your best interest,” he said.
Each project, large or small, gets the same amount of attention and care. “What I love is when we have a design that just sings – that’s fun for everyone,” Fred said.
His grandfather did some design work, blending stone wood and metal into a form he’s always held in high regard. “Sometimes, I think what I’m trying to do is recreate some of that warmth.”