Frankie has been with Design Elite for more than 20 years and serves as a Senior Architectural Designer and the Director of Project Administration. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Architectural Engineering Technology and is a member of the AIBD (American Institute of Building Designers).
- What is your favorite style of house to design?
I enjoy the opportunity we have to design a variety of styles and find something that interests me in all of them. But I am particularly fond of what I would refer to broadly as “cottage” style, especially those that are of an English or French influence. There is a coziness and charm to these types of homes that I equate with what, for me, is the essence of a home – a place of comfort and respite from the world outside.
2. What would YOUR dream house be like?
A cottage, naturally! It would have a layout that has openness and flow while also creating a sense of coziness within the spaces. The kitchen and dining space would be central to the house – the communal aspect of gathering with others around the table and sharing a meal is the most life–giving activity there is. A large porch that will be a much-used outdoor living space is a must. And a courtyard – I love courtyards!
3. Is there a trend in design that you are ready to be over?
White with black trim. Don’t get me wrong – in the right application I think it can be attractive. However, it’s now been overused and frequently misapplied; too many times it’s simply following a trend without understanding its proper place.
4. What’s one feature you think no home should be without?
A fireplace. Maybe not as much for its functionality, but more for what it represents: the comfort and respite I mentioned before. “We no longer build fireplaces for physical warmth; we build them to dream by, to hope by, to home by” – I love this quote.
5. Tell us a few interesting facts about yourself.
Ok, the first one: At 11 years of age, I was hit by a car (obviously I survived!). Thankfully I only suffered scrapes and bruises, but I still remember it like it was yesterday. Second, 46 years after the first one, God gave Sonia and I the opportunity to move to Ireland for four years. We went there to support and encourage Irish pastors; we came back transformed in ways we could never have imagined. A part of our hearts still resides there. A deep sense of gratitude surrounds both of these events in my life.
6. What’s the best part about living in the upstate?
In Greenville we have a vibrant city with a great quality of life, yet in a very short time we can be in the peace and beauty of the mountains. It truly is a blessing to live in this area, and I don’t take it for granted.
7. What is the biggest change you’ve seen in design over your career?
The move from the formality in the way people lived in their homes to the informality that is now the norm. The philosophy of design for the layout of a home has completely been transformed during my career.
8. What is your favorite part of your job?
I was drawn to architecture because I liked to draw (no pun intended). Although CAD is now the primary way we produce our final drawings, I still do my initial concepts via hand-drawing. I find it very satisfying to create a drawing that has value as a work of art in itself, in addition to its value as a way to convey a design idea.
