We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Daniel Monti a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Daniel, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
Persisting in the face of challenges and negativity is an inherent part of being an architect. In our field, we encounter numerous challenges, and the role requires a steadfast commitment to seeing a project through from its inception to completion. I have managed to keep at it because I see my role as not just the architect or designer, but as a guardian of a project’s vision.
The journey from the initial idea to the completion of a project is filled with obstacles, and the presence of detractors or nay-sayers is almost inevitable. As an architect I can be a constant force, ensuring that the essence and purpose of a project remains intact despite external pressures. I feel strongly about the integrity of my projects and that core concepts are strengthened, not weakened, from conception to the final structure.
My personality is one of tenacity, attention to detail, and to seeing things through, so it’s natural, maybe even comforting, for me to be the one that envisions the design as well as being responsible for safeguarding that vision throughout the entire process. One of the guiding principles of my firm is to deliver enduring, sustainable designs that make an impact on the lives of our clients and their communities. That commitment acts as a powerful motivator.
Ultimately, I see my role as an architect as not just about designing structures, but about being the resilient and adaptable influence that guides a project from conception to reality. The challenges and nay-sayers are part of the journey, and by remaining dedicated to the vision and purpose, I can navigate through obstacles and deliver projects that stand the test of time.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Modal Design is a boutique architecture firm that focuses on creating quality residential and small-scale commercial projects. Not all of our designs are expensive, but they’re thoughtful and, I believe for our clients, possess an almost heirloom quality.
As a small firm it’s hard to stand out from the crowd, especially in a design-centric place like Los Angeles. We are not an office that just designs anything; we aren’t interested in French Provencial or faux Tuscan styling. We excel at contemporary and modern designs that show a truth to materials and are clear in their design purpose. Our projects are driven by client and contextual needs, but with solutions that draw on the uniqueness of those people or places.
I am continually focused on devising straightforward solutions to difficult problems, whether they’re aesthetic, logistic, bureaucratic, or even financial. I employ technical knowledge for answers, but also enjoy thinking outside the box for ideas or alternates that might not be most obvious, but that with research or re-examination of the problem become evident as something that lie just under the surface. I look to creative outlets such as art and even exercise to reinvigorate my creativity so that I can approach issues from both directions.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
A never-ending desire for perfection: The relentless pursuit of perfection has been a driving force throughout my career. Striving for excellence in every aspect of design, from the overall concept to the smallest detail, has allowed me to consistently deliver projects that not only meet but exceed client expectations. This quality has also pushed me to continually refine my skills, stay abreast of industry trends, and explore innovative solutions to design challenges. It has also fostered a commitment to continuous learning, encouraging me to evolve with this dynamic field that has been revolutionized by technology over the last 30 years.
The love of well-built space: A genuine passion for creating functional, harmonious, and aesthetically stunning living spaces is at the core of my architectural journey. This love was gained from a childhood spent living and visiting amazing places across the globe, but it goes beyond the technical aspects of design and construction. For me, it stems from seeing up close the emotional impact that architecture and understanding the positive impacts that can have on individuals and communities. This quality has driven me to approach each project as a unique opportunity to craft environments that not only meet practical needs, but also evoke a sense of joy, comfort, and fulfillment for those who inhabit them.
An interest in the details: Meticulous attention to detail is a cornerstone of my practice, and has always been a part of my DNA. My awareness of the finer points of architectural projects ensures that every element, no matter how small, contributes to the overall cohesion and excellence of the design. This extends to materials, colors, textures, lighting, and spatial relationships, enriching the user experience and elevating the overall quality of a design. It involves a commitment to precision and thoroughness through all phases of a project, but it’s rewarding and important to see that the end product is not only visually stunning but also functionally impeccable.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
As the owner of an architecture firm specializing in high-end single-family residences, one significant challenge we currently and consistently face is navigating a competitive market. There are a multitude of talented firms vying for projects, so demonstrating to clients that their issues and desires aligns with our expertise and design philosophy can be demanding. Differentiating ourselves and showcasing the unique value we bring to each project is an ongoing effort.
In line with this challenge is also the issue of balancing creativity and client expectations within budget constraints. Creating unique and innovative designs that meet the specific desires of clients while adhering to financial limitations can be a delicate task. High-end residential projects often involve intricate details, custom features, and premium materials, all of which contribute to elevated costs. So how would I spend the next decade if it were my last? I would concentrate exclusively on working with clients that are excited by our values and philosophy and who are all-in to deliver projects that marry creativity with the client’s vision in a true team environment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.modal-design.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modaldesign
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-monti-26a96425/
