SMS Architects End of the Year Recap: 2023
As we bid farewell to 2023, SMS takes a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've had throughout the year. It's been a year of challenges, triumphs, and creative exploration that has defined our identity as an architectural firm. Join us as we revisit the key milestones, Project's, and innovations that have shaped our firm's narrative over the past twelve months.
1. Project Highlights:
All of our current Projects have showcased a harmonious blend of modern design principles and sustainable solutions, creating visually striking and environmentally conscious spaces. Some of our design challenges this year consisted of discovering and implementing innovative use of materials, redefining conventional notions of spatial aesthetics, and offering a glimpse into the future of architectural excellence. These Project's stand as a testament to SMS's vision, attention to detail, and incorporation of cutting-edge technology that helps us push boundaries and set new standards in the pursuit of both beauty and functionality. Below are some of our standout Projects of 2023:
Steve Madden (South Coast Plaza, Irvine, CA) – A renovation and remodel of the existing 3,152 square feet Retail suite within the South Coast Plaza shopping center includes a new restroom and back-of-house storage.
FarmHouse Collective (Riverside, CA) – A renovation and remodel of the existing former historic Farm House Motel in Riverside, California. This Project will showcase a new Multi-Tenant Retail, Restaurant, and Entertainment facility.
Thompson (Palm Springs, CA) – A new three-story hotel with a single-story Retail, Restaurant, Hotel Office, and back-of-house located in the heart of Palm Springs will open to the public in 2024.
Mutli-Family Residential (Orange County, CA) – Multi-Family Residential Project designed as part of a comprehensive Masterplan in Orange County, which required a significant amount of new housing. This Project proposes five levels of Residential units on top of a partial Retail podium. The ground floor offers a mixture of dining and Retail, with Residential amenities and luxury units on the top four floors.
Dana Point Harbor (Dana Point, CA) – This is a 62-acre marina recreational facility renovated into a Mixed-Use urban space to provide year-round activities for residents, boaters, and the general public. This redevelopment will upgrade the amenities and facilities to address present and future demand and enhance dining opportunities, Retail, walking views, and public access ways.
Galpao Gaucho (Las Vegas, NV; San Diego, CA; Irvine, CA) – Tenant Improvement Restaurants in three different locations consist of renovating existing Restaurants into new Brazilian Steakhouses with outdoor seating.
Palm Mountain (Palm Springs, CA) – A renovation of an existing two-story Hotel Guestroom located in the heart of Palm Springs.
2. Innovations and Design Trends:
Throughout this year, our firm has embarked on a transformative journey, elevating our profile by fostering a dedicated commitment to sustainability. We have seamlessly integrated eco-friendly practices into the heart of our designs, ensuring that environmental responsibility is at the forefront of our designs. We remain at the forefront of technological advancements, leveraging cutting-edge innovations to enhance both functionality and efficiency within our Projects. Our unique architectural styles, born out of collaborative efforts with our Clients, stand as a hallmark of our commitment to innovation, setting our firm apart from others.
3. Team Achievements:
This year brought a handful of celebrations within our team member's accomplishments. We want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that has propelled the firm forward thanks to our entire staff's significant contributions and commend two newly licensed architects.
4. Community Engagement:
This year, our firm experienced tremendous success in community engagement, fostering meaningful connections, and positively impacting the communities we serve. Our thriving community engagement endeavors not only reflect our dedication to this industry but highlight the importance we place on building a sustainable and integral business landscape. Below are some highlights of our networking and community engagements:
· 8th Annual Entertainment Experience Evolution Conference
· NAIOP: Night at the Fights
· Hope in Housing Gala hosted by HomeAid Orange County
· ICSC (Las Vegas)
· ULI
· Restaurant Finance and Development Conference
· Centerbuild in Phoenix, Arizona
· Bisnow
· CBI-Corp Business Interiors
· The Lodging Conference in Arizona
· SMS 525 Wine Down and Brain Picnic
· 2023 Summer Internship
5. Thanking Clients, Partners, and Team:
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our valued Clients, whose trust and collaboration have been the driving force behind our architectural achievements. Thank you to our dedicated Partners and Consultants, whose unwavering support has enriched our Projects and strengthened our professional bonds. And, of course, we express profound thanks to our exceptional team, whose passion, creativity, and hard work have been the cornerstone of our firm's success. Together, we look forward to continued collaboration and the realization of even greater architectural milestones.
As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming year, our firm is poised for existing opportunities and innovative Projects that will shape the future of our practice. We are enthusiastic about pushing the boundaries of design, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and furthering our commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly architecture. The year ahead holds the promise of new collaborations, challenging ventures, and the continued growth of our talented team. With a focus on creativity, Client satisfaction, and pushing the limits of design excellence, our firm eagerly looks forward to a year filled with inspiring Projects and continued success in shaping the built environment. Thank you for being part of our journey!