Architect says details make the difference

If you take a look at some of Wheaton architect Duncan Wiedemann's work, you might be reminded of Frank Lloyd Wright and contemporary architect/author Sarah Susanka.

And Wiedemann certainly praises both of the more famous members of his profession. Yet, the parallels in his work may come more from his own skills and experience than an effort to emulate the other two.

A two-story ceiling with a balcony at one-end of the room adds interest in a Glen Ellyn home Wiedemann designed, as does the built-in lighting over the fireplace.

Susanka said varying ceiling heights and treatments are among the methods that make Wright's homes so impressive.

Wiedemann also pays attention to both budget and details in the homes he designs. In this one, the structural wood beams become important decorative elements.

One of Wiedemann's secrets is that he is an amateur carpenter.

"I never design something that I could never build myself," he said. "I pay attention to details and the way materials work together."

Besides working with wood, integrating lighting and trim work is one of Wiedemann's passions.

"I like to design interesting details that the homeowner can enjoy, rather than a white box. The buildings I have done are mostly of modest scale, not fussy or extravagant."

The so-called McMansions or homes that are big for the sake of size get it backward, said Wiedemann. Their two-story hallways are the opposite of Wright's cozy entries. "It's unnerving," said Wiedemann.

He feels Wright's designs, on the other hand, help people themselves feel expanded when they walk from the smaller entry into the larger space.

And he praises Susanka.

"She does get out and talk to people about these things. I have appreciated very much what she's done."

The Wheaton architect is listed in the directory of home professionals on Susanka's Web site, www.notsobighouse.com.

Deborah Donovan