Stephen Fuller, president and CEO of Stephen Fuller, Inc., in Norcross, Ga., discusses his firm, his clients, one of his newest designs, and the state of American architecture.

Q:Tell us a little about Stephen Fuller, Inc.

A: The intent of our design and land-planning process is to preserve what is best about the classic American neighborhoods of the past, and incorporate these timeless features into a contemporary community. We’ve been holding fast to our vision of coordinated streetscapes for more than two decades now; we’re dedicated to an approach that ensures the architectural integrity of a community is maintained throughout the development and build-out phases. Our first effort in land planning and community design earned us a Best In American Living Award.

Q: How do you view the state of architecture in America these days?

A: Greatly improving. Because of the ever-growing world of the Internet and print media, consumers are increasingly aware of finer places, environmentally and architecturally. This increased awareness leads to a demand for better design from the architectural and building product professions.

Q: What is lacking in American architecture these days?

A: An appreciation and understanding of traditional architectural vernaculars. Too often, our buildings today seem to be driven simply by function and budget. Rarely is thoughtful consideration given to the study of materials and styling. Unfortunately, these are the components of architecture both new and old that gives it personality and character.

Q: What do your designs provide for homeowners?

A: Functionality married to stylistic beauty and quality. Our designs are not complete until they are beautiful as well as functional. The combination of the two results in a timeless quality and appropriateness that brings value to people’s lives.

Q: What architectural styles and interior amenities are your clients requesting?

A: Styles are as varied as the personalities of our clients and the diversity of their building sites. Second homes are often designed in a variety of locations, such as mountain communities and lakeside environments. Styling ranges from American Lodge, English Country, Craftsman and Shingle styles.

Primary residences are often based on American precedents such as Colonial Georgian and Italianate, as well as old-world precedents.

Q: What architectural styles are best suited to the Georgia coast?

A: American Lowcountry, French Colonial, Mediterranean, and Neo Classical.

Q: What’s the greatest challenge these days for architectural firms?

A: Keeping up with technology. In order to produce the increased amounts of information needed to direct highly detailed and historically inspired buildings, you need to be able to produce more information faster, with fewer people. This means finding, learning, and using new technology and software, which changes constantly.

Q:Let’s talk about “Bon Secour,” the Coastal Living 2007 Idea Cottage. Who designed it?

A: It was a team effort; Brandon Ingram and I designed it.

Q:What makes it a “coastal” home?

A:Stylistically it is based on Colonial French architecture of the Gulf coast region. Functionally it is designed with open interiors, abundant views, open-air porches, and outdoor living spaces, despite its small lot and footprint. It is very elegant; historical, yet casual and modern.

Q:What are some of its other unique architectural and design details?

A:The house is designed to fit into a coastal waterfront environment, as well as an in-town urban setting. The raised floor and exterior porches make the home quite comfortable connecting with an existing pedestrian-friendly environment. At the same time, the house opens into a interior courtyard enclosed by a perimeter courtyard wall that creates a strong sense of privacy for rooms that are more family-oriented and intimate. High ceilings and historically inspired details give the home a period feel that raises the sense of style beyond its small square footage.

Q:What are some of the building materials spec’ed for the home and why did you choose them?

A:We chose a faux antique brick for the masonry portions of the home to give it a rustic, historical feel. Other materials included heavy lap siding for the upper floor to lighten the composition.

Q:In what coastal areas would this home be an especially good fit, based on its architectural style?

A:It would work well along the Gulf Coast and the East Coast, particularly around Georgia and the Carolinas.

It is unique because of its French Colonial styling, which is rare in the marketplace, plus its practicality and affordability due to its modest size. With minor adaptations, it would work in a multitude of locations. With all the devastation seen along the Gulf and southeast coasts after Hurricane Katrina, it symbolizes the rebirth of this area and Creole traditions.