“Architecture has to be greater than just architecture. It has to address social values, as well as technical and aesthetic values. On top of that, the one true gift that an architect has is his or her imagination. We take something ordinary and elevate it to something extraordinary.”

– Samuel Mockbee

MRV Architects is committed to an inclusive design process, involving the Owner throughout each project’s evolution to ensure that the finished building fulfills the client’s vision. To ensure continuity of design and intent throughout a project, MRV principals work hands-on during programming, design, and construction document creation, maintaining a level of engagement and care that would not be possible under the standard separation of management and design tasks. To maintain a high standard of document quality, MRV performs internal reviews of technical and design issues related to constructability, life cycle costs, and material appropriateness, while always fully involving the client in cost/quality decisions. Our history of long client relationships and repeat project referrals demonstrate this technical competence and attention to owner needs.

At MRV, our focus includes three particular aspects of design — sustainable design, universal design, and capturing a sense of place. MRV projects always incorporate sustainable building practices, limiting environmental impacts, and using the most energy-efficient design appropriate to the budget. We strive for universal design, with gracious buildings for every type of user. Every person should feel comfortable and welcome in our structures. Finally, sense of place. While we professionally solve building technical issues and specific user needs, we constantly search to discover an aesthetic that reflects the heart of the users and setting. Very broadly, these include a sensitivity to place and environment, the use of natural daylight, the visual expression of materials –like wood structure, stone and glass- and sculpting interior volumes to give the buildings life and character.