Barnett Architecture (BA) is a full-service, design-focused architectural practice. BA’s philosophy is straightforward - projects are to “fit” the client, not serve as a pedestal for the architect. BA does not employ a distinct architectural “style.” Instead, BA develops a design that reflects the use, site, budget and the place in the community. Although examples of BA’s principal architect, Todd Barnett, range from traditional to modern, all projects create places that share common traits: they are well built, they facilitate their intended use, they respect the needs of the client, and they raise the human spirit. BA strives to create projects informed by a single clear idea or concept—one that guides and unifies the overall design.

BA employs the Charrette* design process to promote Client-Architect interaction. In this interactive design process, the client, architect, builder, engineer, and other interested parties (e.g., neighbors, users) are active participants in design. The architect brings few pre-conceived notions to the table. Instead, the process invites all to express what the project might – or should not - be. The Charrette process is equally appropriate for use on a multi-million dollar commercial building as it is on a private residence. Used to generate a range of ideas and to achieve consensus, the Charrette quickly generates design options, agreement, and direction--and can assist in defining project goals, schedule and budget.

BA supports responsible or “green” design as a focus in all projects. This support includes not only the utilization of green materials, energy saving heating and cooling systems, thermally efficient design, and the reduction of construction waste, but also the classic architectural ideas of proper building orientation and the avoidance of over-building. Project experience extends beyond specifying mainstream products - such as low VOC paints and fiber cement siding - to more those more comprehensive such as solar hot water systems, wind turbines, green roofs, and net-zero energy construction.

BA’s services range from hourly consultations to validate interest in pursuing a project to full architectural design process beginning with programming on through construction.

BA is led by Todd Barnett, an award-winning architect with over twenty years of architectural practice. Todd has led projects in new construction as well as additions and renovations to libraries, religious buildings, schools, grocery stores, hotels, multi-family housing, single-family residences, university buildings and health care facilities. His interest in architecture extends beyond traditional practice. Todd has taught architecture internationally, has served on private and city boards and commissions, and over the years has volunteered his services to a range of community groups. Prior to establishing his own firm, Todd was project architect for seventeen years at a small, respected, design-focused architecture firm. He has made Madison his home since 1990.

Todd also started two unique groups in Madison. The first, Architects Sketch Hour, is a gathering of architects and allied professionals for on-site sketching of the built environment. In an age of computers the need to sketch freehand at client meetings and at site visits is still very much needed; this has become an excellent way to maintain and enhance the skill. The second, the Sole Proprietor Architects Forum, is a collective of architects in business for themselves. The standing monthly forum provides the opportunity for members to review particular issues for second opinion or roundtable discussion. In addition, each meeting features a specific building system review and discussion. Sarah F. Canon, a talented designer with extensive experience as both a practitioner and educator, joins Todd on the staff of BA. Sarah has a Masters in Architecture from the University of Minnesota. At Minnesota, Sarah served as a teaching assistant to Sarah Susanka, from whom she learned – and with whom she taught – the philosophy of the Not So Big House. Sarah has since taught architecture at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and landscape architecture at the University of Wisconsin- Madison. Sarah and Todd have worked together since 1995.

*Historically, the word Charrette or “cart” refers to the practice of 19th French architecture students, who kept interactively working on their projects with their peers while riding on the “school cart” on their way to meet with their professors

Project Services Barnett Architecture offers the following services:

Pre-Design
Programming
Site Analysis and Selection Recommendation
Feasibility Studies
Governmental Agency Review
Programming

Design
Zoning Code Review
Building Code Review
Master Planning
Space Planning
Building Design
Materials and Finishes
Community Meetings
Budgeting
Outline Specifications
Charrette Process*

Construction Documents
Drawings
Project Manuel/Specifications
Cost Estimation

Pre-Construction
Contractor Selection Assistance
Pre-Bid Conference
Bidding
Addenda

Construction Contract Assistance
Plan Review and Approvals
Construction Post-Construction
Progress Meetings As-Built Documents
Shop Drawing Review Warrantee Review
Pay Request Review
Changer Order Review Promotional/Marketing
Construction Bulletins Graphic Materials
Material and Finish Selection Models
State Compliance Certification 3D Drawings