principal
MARY DuPREE KNOWLES, A.I.A. studied at U.C. Berkeley and after working for various architectural firms in New York City and Paris, joined the practice as a principal in 1992, later taking over as lead. Over the years her thoughtful design has formed an integral part of the practice. She has completed an extensive array of projects, ranging in scale from townhouse and city living spaces to complete country estates.
founder
EDWARD F. KNOWLES (1929-2018) studied at the Pratt Institute and later taught at Pratt Institute, Cooper Union and Columbia University. He worked for Philip Johnson and Edward Larrabee Barnes before setting up practice in 1957. In addition to numerous private commissions, his oeuvre includes Boston City Hall [Kallman. McKinnell and Knowles], and the Filene Center at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts [MacFadyen and Knowles].
background
Knowles Architecture began it's existence in 1957 when Founder, Edward F. Knowles started practicing architecture in Midtown, New York. Knowles first received international attention in 1962 when Kallmann, McKinnell and Knowles received first prize in the competition to design the New Boston City Hall.
In 1992 Mary DuPree Knowles joined the practice as a principal. The firm now in it's second generation, builds on the experience of over 70 years practice in the United States and abroad. An extensive body of commercial and private work has been completed on projects ranging from simple living spaces to urban masterplans. The work has included several projects involving the restoration or expansion of buildings of significant historical and architectural value. The practice has recently been involved in the design and execution of a wide variety of custom residential projects.
The firm provides a complete range of architectural services, from design, through construction documents and on-site observation.
The firm's work has been featured in various periodicals and books including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful and House & Garden.
Approach
The firm approaches design through interpretation of stylistic factors derived from the client's program and site. Imagery, proportion, material and details that are appropriate to the region are examined and may be interpreted. Our design development process fully engages the client in every aspect.
The final solution is an original design that relates to the archetypal local architecture while fulfilling the clients' needs and desires. Concerns are for the exterior massing and it's relationship with the site, with harmonious integration of landscaping features.
Internal spaces must flow graciously while satisfying the program. Integration of natural lighting is of paramount importance with thought to accent, levity and highlighting the design. Careful lighting layouts ensure the spaces are adequately and creatively lit.
Throughout the entire design and construction process, a constant dialogue with the client is maintained. The best project is built from a true understanding of a client's needs, a well examined site and a well thought out design.