Meet Tim Fleming, Associate Principal at ACRM Architects + Interiors
What got you interested in Architecture and Design?
In high school, I had read The Fountainhead, and the Howard Roark character impressed me as a driven and purposeful. The story was romantic, and the hero an ideal Architect in modern times. Ann Rand had based the character on her image of Frank Lloyd Wright. I like to joke that I was initially disappointed when I realized most architects don’t sweep through construction sites wearing a dark woolen cape, knocking on the columns to test and demonstrate their strength. Since then, the reality of what we do is much more satisfying than I could have imagined.
What would you be doing right now if you weren’t here?
Playing cards
When you aren’t at work what are your favorite hobbies?
Gardening has been a lifelong hobby. As a kid we grew food, and today I focus on native planting at local nature preserves. I also love photography, astronomy, cooking, sailing, snorkeling & exploring.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
The whole experience of growing our firm, building our office, serving our profession. Like my dad said, ‘Love what you do every day.’
What’s the single most important reason for your success?
Success is difficult to measure. Much of it comes from our part in something much bigger. I have heard the greatest architects speak of ‘leaving the ego at the door,’ and I think this may be our strong point. We listen to our Clients and trust their vision. When we have a setback, we see it as an opportunity.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
Admittedly, experiencing the built projects is pretty neat!
If you could never work again, would you and why?
I’m sure there may be a time to slow down, but it sure is hard to stop after a lifetime of development.
How would you like people to remember you and your company?
I hope we are known as fair, truthful, enthusiastic and caring. I hope the office continues to challenge individuals to advance their professionalism. The active advancement and respect for the work would not require recollection.
Besides money, what are your favorite ways to compensate people?
Time holds great value. I recall after one all-nighter, Mr. Awbrey had me take some time off. We maintain an environment in the office where the work is rewarding and appreciated.
If you only had one last meal, what would it be?
It would be with my family, with a cake!
Do you have a signature style?
My training has foundations in the Beaux-Arts School. Our time tends towards rational and modernist style. Romantics keep the love of life and human detailing alive. We strive for appropriateness in style and believe that most buildings want to ‘fit’ with the location and time. We approach each project with intelligence and creative vigor, and we have enough depth in our architectural language that styles tend to vary based on what the projects wants.
