ENVISIONING

Studio Nato is devoted to intimately understanding the history, context and cultural conditions of a site before we begin to imagine how a space can materialize. We take the time to acquaint ourselves with the stories, personalities and needs of our clients as an integral part of our preliminary planning. This schematic design process is comprehensive and includes extensive interviewing of the prospective clients, initial survey, site visits and documentation, budget projections and thorough research so that every detail is considered before moving into concept design. We create future spaces by borrowing from past traditions, methodologies and building structures all the while ushering in new and contemporary ideas, materials and technologies.

DESIGNING

With our client’s vision at the forefront of our practice, we begin to conceptualize walls and space through drawings, renderings and planning. The design development phase involves looking at material expression such as windows, lighting and technology, interior and exterior finishes, millwork as well as mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Our long established and trusted relationships with local suppliers allows us to source and procure the best products for our clients. Where materials or structures can be salvaged, we advocate for adaptive reuse. We emphasize hand craftsmanship as part of our design approach and opt for custom finishes, cabinetry and furniture design to achieve a specific function or aesthetic appeal if a product is otherwise not easily attained or available.

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

Beyond design, the act of building is a multifaceted process and involves contractors, engineers, and other consultants to actualize our vision. Our team handles the coordination amongst all suppliers and consultants, overseeing the timeliness of schedules, quality of goods and services, preparation of contract documents, revisions, and payments. This ensures a fluid communication amongst all parties.

TURNKEY

As designers, we design holistically and observe how the exteriors, interior space, and all the contents that a building houses interact with one another. On a macro level, we concern ourselves with the architectural tectonics and on a micro level, we examine how a small object can complement the patina of a wall, an architectural frieze, or the type of millwork used on a staircase. It is with this level of attention to detail and aesthetic sensibility that we build and furnish a project from new wall insertion to the selection of chinaware on a dining table. With the confidence of the client, we procure and install lighting, window coverings, carpets, furniture, art, and accessories to see the project to completion.