At UPDESIGN, we believe in progress.

We practice a forward thinking design approach that allows solutions to manifest naturally by asking questions about what the result could be rather than assuming a boilerplate answer. Our process is iterative and involves continuous sessions of brainstorming, experimenting, and qualifying. Throughout the history of Architecture, these have been the tried and true methods for creating successful buildings. It’s the work that gives a project integrity.

What allows our process to be progressive, is that we have a keen sense of place. We believe that it is essential for a project to respond to it’s context. Without a connection to local roots, or a family history, or a natural site, a design will not achieve authenticity. Without a response to climate, viewsheds, and light, a design will never be sustainable.

When given the opportunity to use our practice in its highest capacity, the result has proven to deliver projects that are progressive, and that build our community UP. 

ANNE M. MEAD has been serving clients in Northern Arizona since 2012.

She has successfully brought many projects to fruition in both the residential and commercial sectors of the industry.

As homeowners, her clients take advantage of her vast experience in residential remodeling, additions, and custom home design.

Investment based developers benefit from experience with inventive proforma concepts and a competitive take on how to approach multi-family and mixed use projects.

Commercial Tenant Improvement Clients see their businesses thrive from redeveloping underused shell space with affordable and quality designs.

She has ushered new construction through entitlement on undeveloped land in many jurisdictions throughout Arizona.

ETHOS

  • The phenomena of experiencing built environments affects our psychology, so care must be taken when planning.

  • All buildings have a Genius Loci, or spirit of place. A building must respond to it’s site.

  • Good design rejects preconceptions.

  • Performance is paramount. Form follows function.

  • Beauty is born out of clean, balanced proportion. Institute the golden ratio.

  • Light and ventilation provide comfort, without them space is latent.

  • Energy efficiency begins with passive sustainable design.

  • Durable materials and assemblies are essential to longevity.

  • Tight documents foster cost effective construction.

  • Clear communication breeds exceptional relationships.

ACCREDITATION