Always by Design

Year Established: 2005

The sole focus of Always by Design (AxD) is designing contemporary single-family homes directly with owners. Architect Ed Barnhart formed Always by Design to realize a more intimate and holistic way of practicing architecture. Ultimately, Ed found it to be of greater value to his clients to apply his thirty-plus years of experience to working directly for owners -- rather than indirectly, mentoring a staff of lesser experience. Now, as a sole practitioner, he provides exceptional single-source continuity for every project– from conception to completion. For owners, working with Ed means holistic involvement in their project from a “high altitude” down to the smallest of details.

Types of Work

• Housing (Single Family): 100%

Projects 

Numerous new primary residences, vacation houses, additions and renovations in Maine, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Virginia.

Awards 

2020 Ranked in the “Top 18 Best Architects in Philadelphia” by Expertise.com; 2020 Best of Houzz for service professionalism for third year; 2015 Best of Design Award on Houzz.com; 2014 Merit Award from the New Jersey Chapter of the American Institute of Architects for Prospect House; 2014 Grand Jury Award from The Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia for John C. Haas Archive of Science and Business at Chemical Heritage Foundation; 2013 Honor Award for Prospect House from the Society of American Registered Architects (SARA); 2008 Award of Excellence for thirteen0I restaurant+bar from Society of American Registered Architects (SARA); 2008 Merit Award for AxD Gallery and Studio from Pennsylvania Chapter of American Institute of Architects; 2008 Best Design-Build Project Award for American Philosophical Society from General Building Contractors Association; 2007 Honor Award for AxD Gallery and Studio from Philadelphia Chapter of American Institute of Architects.

Principals 

Edward A. Barnhart

Contacts