Process

“My husband and I own a home on an island in Penobscot Bay which had been owned by my mother until her death in 2011. It is a hybrid of characteristic New England and more modern California-style architecture. We wanted to make design changes that really would make the house “ours.” Our first goal was to find a local Maine architect, which we did by considering several firms’ websites and interviewing each.

John was a clear standout. He and his team came over to the island, listened carefully to our ideas then developed four different plans for us to consider. The team also helped us find a contractor with whom all of us worked extremely well. The result has been a home that we love, that works well for just the two of us or for a crowd. Indeed, John went way above and beyond by listening to the opinions of my extended family who also spend time on this island and love sharing their opinions! We enthusiastically recommend Priestley + Associates Architecture.”

“I’ve enjoyed several opportunities to collaborate with Priestley & Associates and have found their design talents to be exceptional. I particularly appreciate the way in which their architecture responds to the context within which it is located and relates so sensitively to the landscape. This integrated approach to design is refreshing!”

“After interviewing several architectural firms we met with John Priestley and his since retired partner, Richard Bernhard, and we knew instantly we had found the firm who would realize our dream house. The process and interaction was a true collaboration, and we could not be happier with the result. The vibe and flow of the house is cozy, not formal, and several of our friends have expressed exactly that sentiment independent of each other. We are passing on the compliments – thank you, John!”

“John is the principal designer of an amazing home that we just completed in Maine. Each detail was creative and well thought out and the end result is a spectacular and unique building. We worked with John from the beginning of the process when he helped put our dreams down on paper and make them a reality to the completion when he went through and noted each little thing that needed to be done to make the house pretty close to perfect. I would recommend John and his team to anyone interested in bringing their ideas to reality.”

“We had the pleasure of working together with Priestley & Associates twice over the past 6 years. John Priestley and his team provided us with creative solutions for updating our 1910 oceanside cottage and 1920’s colonial. They listened carefully to our needs, drafting highly detailed drawings, and were attentive to our budget. Most recently they met a very tight deadline. Beyond the drawings, they demonstrated an excellent knowledge of construction and had a good relationship with our contractor. Highly recommend for new construction and renovation.”

“John Priestley and his team certainly have the vision to create beautiful projects. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate on several homes. It’s truly amazing to see the homeowner’s vision and dreams come to life. What is really unique and helpful about John is the hands-on construction experience coupled with his design talents. He has a knack for simplifying the complicated which makes the field construction process go smoothly. Great design, great team, and great homes! Truly unique!”