Harris/Day Architects announced in November a new name, a new corporate identity, and a
stylized approach to design as it becomes SoL, Harris/Day Architecture.
The change reflects the formalization of a new architectural design process entitled The SoL Experience, an ethnographic process of gaining relevant human input at the needs-assessment phase of any project. Sol, the Latin word for "sun," is added to symbolize the commitment to focus on the clients’ human needs and our continued emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainable architecture.
"We added SoL to our name to symbolize the change in how we do business," said Scott Shively,
vice president of architecture. "SoL, as in the ‘soul’ of the people who live and work in our buildings. And SoL, as in ‘sun,’ the conservation of energy and creation of architecture that is sustainable and respectful of our environment. It’s from where our new tag line ‘Designed for people. Designed for life.’ originates."
Updating the sun icon, which has always been a part of Harris/Day Architecture history, the partners redesigned the firm’s image to reflect the continued growth and transition of the firm.
"We’ve always focused on sustainability, even before it was a buzzword," added Matt Sutter, LEED AP, vice president of construction. "In fact, looking back, our buildings routinely passed sixty-five to seventy-five percent of the certifications required for LEED accreditation. It’s just how we design for people. It’s the right thing to do." LEED represents the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System from the U.S. Green Building Council.
"Instead of just talking about how we create designs for people, we decided to demonstrate
that with The SoL Experience," said Jeffrey Day, SoL, Harris/Day president. "It’s our official first step in design. It has become a formal process and not just lip service. We learn everything that we can about the end users of the project. That information is essential in creating the kind of spaces that deliver on the human experience. We are dedicated to understanding how people are influenced, interact, and behave in response to their environment."
"We design for the ‘human element,’ how people react, respond and realize their potential in their environment," said Day. "Defining how form is to follow people keeps those who will use the spaces now and in the future at the forefront of our thinking, from beginning to end."
Be sure to visit our new website at www.harrisday.com for more information on our firm’s growth and transition.