Great Unexpectations: Discovery with Michael Ryan Architects

October 4, 2011 • 5:51 pm • POSTED BY Cory McCall

Every new client relationship begins with the phase we call “Discovery.”  It’s the time we spend embedded with the client, gathering as much information as possible about what they do, how they do it and why they do it. Some call this the “Research Phase,” and often times this feels like a better description as we pore through thick binders of data and information and read long, dry company histories. However, as we prepared for a day of touring homes designed by our new client, Michael Ryan Architects, we had no idea that we were about to be reminded as to why we call this phase “Discovery” and how it can be as much about self-discovery as it can be learning about the client.

Our first clue that we needed to check any preconceived notions about what the day may hold was the fact that it was a balmy 77 degrees. And it was mid-February. Next clue: we were given a $165,000 Mercedes-Benz AMG (another client of ours) to test drive for the day.

And we were headed to the beach in Loveladies, NJ, an unspoiled strip of land on Long Beach Island known for a history of experimental architecture. This was indeed one of those moments where you remind yourself that you’re being paid to do this. And you don’t care how trite it sounds.

MRA told us to meet them at “Beach Flop”—the first stop on the tour. When we arrived at the stunning beachfront property I believe we all muttered, “Beach Flop?” as if that name could only mean some kind of dusty, thatched-roof, shanty commune. Whereas, in front of us, stood a massive, modern, red structure that looked as if it had been lifted up off the ground by a series of whimsical carjacks. We learned this was done to allow for unobstructed views of the dunes and ocean beyond as you approach the house, giving it an instant geographic context as well as a practical place to park cars and hose off beach chairs. Wonderful. Unexpected. Practical.  Our words of the day were taking shape.

As we moved through the different spaces, we experienced each house’s overall effect on the mind and body. We listened to the creators speak to why they made the choices they made or how some aspect was not a choice at all, but a fortunate result of being open to possibility. We learned that a house can be both a place of relaxation as well as a place to party. We learned that an old-school diner can have a James Beard award-winning chef behind the grill serving up thick creamy milkshakes, pancakes or famous Barnegat Bay scallops.

And we learned that, for Mike Ryan, the creative process is sacred. While touring the final home of an MRA client-turned-friend (as all clients seem to become), Mike pointed to a sculpture on the wall created by the homeowner artist. It was a bright orange life preserver with the words “Let Go” emblazoned across it. Mike pointed at it and said this is what it’s all about. Getting people to get rid of all preconceived notions of what they think they know or like and just being open to the possibility that exists in any creative endeavor, whether you’re designing houses, making music, writing stories, or designing brands. Be informed, be educated, but then let go and let the process take you.

We took this advice to heart and designed a new brand and website for the firm that not only tries to convey this concept, but is born of it. We’re also working on a monograph of collected works that will be published later this year. Take a look at our work as well as the inspiring houses designed by MRA and see what happens when you learn to “Unexpect.”