Sustainable architecture is often reduced to technology — solar panels, high-performance insulation, efficient mechanical systems. Those elements matter. But true sustainability goes deeper. I think of sustainable architecture as designing spaces that function with energy efficiency and feel vibrant in their connection to the environment. It includes reducing operational energy — heating, cooling, lighting — […]
Author: markholmquistarchitect
Accent Doors: A Timeless Design Statement
Introduction Accent doors in interior design are a timeless design strategy. From the front doors lining Dublin’s Merion Square to Diana Vreeland’s famously lacquered red door, accent doors have long been iconic interior design statements. Even the opening sequence of Funny Face—set inside a Manhattan fashion magazine—understands the power of a door as a moment […]
The Ultimate Guide to Your New York City Apartment Remodel
If you’re considering a remodel of your New York apartment—whether it’s a Manhattan condo or a historic Brooklyn co-op—you already know it’s not like renovating anywhere else. Boards, permits, and century-old buildings make the process challenging. But with the right plan and the right architect, those challenges turn into opportunities to create a home that’s […]
Modern Townhouses in NYC: Icons Between 1900 and 1980
When most people think of New York City residential design, they picture iconic brownstones, Beaux-Arts mansions, or gleaming glass towers. Yet tucked into Manhattan’s grid are some of the most fascinating modern townhouses—homes that between 1900 and 1978 rewrote the rules of what a townhouse could be. These are not just houses; they’re bold architectural […]
Modern Residential Architecture: Trends, Simplicity, and Functionality
Modern residential architecture is making a strong comeback. Homeowners today are drawn to its clean lines, minimalist interiors, and uncluttered spaces. But modern design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating homes that feel open, functional, and deeply connected to their surroundings. The Roots of Modern Architecture Modern residential architecture first emerged in the early 20th […]
A Philadelphia Story: Residential Architecture and Landscape
As a student at the University of Pennsylvania, I was fascinated by a tradition in Philadelphia architecture that uses local materials to bridge vernacular and international styles. This approach creates a subtle harmony between buildings and their surroundings, regardless of the era or architectural trend. Two examples of residential architecture highlight this tradition: Mt. Pleasant […]
Why Hire an Architect? (It’s About More Than Blueprints)
Building a new home or renovating your current one isn’t just about walls, windows, and paint colors. It’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle and makes you feel great every time you walk through the door. That’s where a residential architect can help. We don’t just draw plans — we translate your ideas, […]
City Living Upgrades: My Top 10 Requests for a New York City Apartment Renovation
City living demands smart design. New York City Apartment Renovations have challenges like tight spaces, limited light, and constant energy make every renovation choice critical. Here are my favorite updates that elevate apartment life for city dwellers—practical, stylish, and totally worth it. 1. Walk-In Closets Clutter-free and stylish. Double hang for jackets and shirts, single […]
Mark Holmquist, NYC Architectural Designer on Lasting Homes
The Illusion of Design Photos in Residential Renovation Design magazines and websites can be irresistible. They showcase masterfully executed homes—images that make you want to renovate immediately. But these photos capture only the final layer: furnishings, finishes, and styling. What you don’t see is the thoughtful architectural planning that creates lasting, functional homes. Without that […]