Chris designed his first passive solar house in 1986 and has been hooked ever since. “In the 80’s and 90’s, about half of the houses I designed were passive solar. Now its closer to 90%. In addition, clients with interesting and often complex requests have found their way to my architectural practice.”
Many of his designs draw inspiration from the behavior of form and pattern in nature. He can often be seen doing research in the mountains surrounding Asheville—hiking on a favorite trail or cycling in the Black Mountain highlands.
Zen Buddhist meditation and practice have also influenced his design process and philosophy. “Communication and creativity are greatly enhanced when my full attention is on whatever is in front of me.”