Architetra Spring Newsletter
The Architetra Spring 2024 Newsletter is online! Below are a few highlights from this issue. To receive the newsletter directly in your inbox, subscribe in the footer!
Welcome the Talented Jillian Orlandini, Architectural Designer
We have been looking for the right fit to help support our continued growth. Jillian quickly demonstrated her drive, creativity, architectural expertise, project management, and client-centered approach; those qualities that align with our firm. We are excited to bring her significant talents to Architetra in a full time capacity. She is already fully involved and flourishing with premier projects for our clients.
“I see Architetra as a uniquely high growth opportunity where I will have the freedom to spearhead my own designs while also being directly mentored by the firm’s principals on diverse projects across residential and commercial projects at varying scales, helping me to become a well-rounded architect,” Jillian said.
She is a recent graduate of Penn State’s School of Architecture, having earned a Bachelor of Architecture and a minor in Architecture History. Orlandini completed her last semester, a four-month study abroad program in Rome, Italy through Penn State and the Pantheon Institute, which is focused on immersing the students in the culture and architecture of the Roman Empire.
Orlandini continues to pursue a path to Architect licensure which requires gaining and documenting experience in various aspects of architectural practice and then successful completion of the Architectural Registration Examination (ARE).
Check out some of her designs below. Are you as blow away as we are by these stunning custom homes?
Elevating Coastal Luxury: The Avalon Custom Home
Nestled in the heart of Avalon’s prestigious landscape, the latest creation by architectural designer Jillian Orlandini is a testament to innovation, luxury, and the serene allure of coastal living. Situated at the coveted address of 151 W 37th St, this stand-alone marvel harmoniously blends with its environment while pushing the boundaries of design and functionality.
Orlandini’s approach was meticulous, navigating Avalon’s stringent zoning laws without compromising the home’s distinctive flair. “The challenge,” Orlandini notes, “was to infuse the structure with dimensionality and layers, ensuring it transcended the mundane ‘big box’ stereotype.”
Perhaps the most striking aspect of Orlandini’s design is the roof—a complex puzzle. Adhering to strict regulations on slopes and heights, Orlandini achieved a harmonious balance between aesthetic appeal and practicality. The roof’s unique shapes and materials accentuate windows and entrances, encapsulating the essence of coastal sophistication.
Orlandini envisioned a space that epitomizes the upscale “beach house” ambiance, marked by grand windows, intricate brackets, and a dynamic façade. The home boasts three expansive floors, each offering breathtaking ocean views and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living.
On the first floor, where guests are greeted by a three-season living area complete with a full wet bar and gas fireplace. This space opens up to a lavish pool area, creating an enchanting setting for entertainment. Also housed on this level are a bedroom, garage, laundry room, powder room, and a quaint cabana-style pool house.
Ascend to the second floor to discover the heart of this architectural gem. An open floor plan encompasses a large living room, an L-shaped kitchen and pantry and center island, and a dining space flanked by a wine bar. Dual sliding glass doors lead to a sprawling deck, inviting unobstructed ocean vistas into every gathering.
The third floor is reserved for tranquility and privacy. The main master bedroom embodies luxury and features a tub shower, walk-in closet, and office space. A fourth bedroom boasts a vast shower, double vanity, and a standalone tub.
Future homeowners are afforded the opportunity to select finishes, ensuring that this house truly becomes their home.
With decks on every level, five bedrooms, and 5.5 bathrooms, this Avalon masterpiece redefines coastal elegance. Orlandini’s dedication to creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful shines through, making 151 W 37th St not just a residence, but a landmark of luxury living.
Custom Home, North Conshohocken, Pennsylvania – Design & Renderings
In the charming borough of Conshohocken, PA, I had the privilege of designing a residence that encapsulates the essence of both traditional and contemporary architectural styles. My vision was to harmoniously blend the rustic charm of classic Pennsylvania farmhouses—characterized by their stone walls, expansive windows, and pronounced gables—with the sleek aesthetics of modern farmhouses. This included the incorporation of chic black window frames, sophisticated board and batten siding, and an inviting, spacious covered front porch. Nestled side by side, these homes present a unique design challenge: to create a cohesive streetscape that respects the individuality of each home. Drawing inspiration from my previous work, I aimed to add depth and interest to the façades through strategic use of bay windows and stair towers, enhancing the homes’ dimensional appeal.
Upon entering, the expansive foyer unfolds into the heart of the home, where the modern open floor plan fosters an effortless flow between living spaces. This design choice not only maximizes the sense of spaciousness but also caters to the contemporary lifestyle, promoting connectivity and interaction. Features such as a two-car garage, a cozy gas fireplace, and a serene back patio further enrich the living experience.
The thoughtful layout extends across the floors, offering a versatile basement; an inviting first floor with essential spaces including a generous kitchen, living and dining areas, and outdoor living spaces; and a second floor dedicated to rest and rejuvenation. Here, three bedrooms, a hall bath equipped with a double vanity, and a substantial laundry room accommodate daily needs. The master suite, a true sanctuary, boasts an expansive walk-in closet and a luxurious bathroom complete with a soaking tub and a large shower, ensuring a private retreat for the homeowners.
This project in Conshohocken represents not just a fusion of styles but a commitment to creating spaces that resonate with the lives of those who inhabit them, making each architectural decision meaningful and every moment spent at home,
We want to hear from you. What are your top 5 must have custom dream home features? Your feedback will be included in our next newsletter!
Restaurant projects by Joe Lombardi and the Architetra team…
Americano, Authentic Flavors of Italy – Dramatic Miami-Meets-Manhattan Design
The newly opened Americano restaurant located at 957 Broadway in Bayonne, New Jersey is a 6,000 square foot restaurant designed with a Miam meets Manhattan vibe. The upscale Italian restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, so we had to put on our thinking cap to design comfortable and flexible spaces that flow well together and have multi-uses. For instance, patrons can enjoy a morning croissant or scone at the breakfast bar, or an Old-Fashioned in the swanky cocktail lounge before heading over to the dining room for dinner. After dinner, guests can enjoy dessert in the chic lounge.
The main dining room is sophisticated and cozy and reminiscent of Old Hollywood with jewel-toned velvet and leather couches and chandeliers. Smaller parties can enjoy a private enclave with the smart use of heavy drapery that partitions off from the main dining room. This project was a true collaboration with owner and developer, Lance Lucarelli, Architetra, and features the exquisite taste of interior designer, Barbara Balongue of Balongue Design Inc.
The Pavilion at Mainland – Wedding & Event Venue
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Harleysville, PA, at 2250 Rittenhouse Rd, the transformation of a seasonal pavilion into Montgomery County PA’s newest Wedding & Event Venue marks a significant architectural endeavor. This venue, designed to host an array of events from wedding ceremonies and receptions to corporate meetings and fundraisers, seamlessly blends traditional architectural elements with modern amenities. The expansive 4100 square feet of space is thoughtfully utilized to accommodate up to 200 guests, ensuring a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for any occasion.
As an architect, my vision was to enhance the venue’s connection to its stunning golf course surroundings while preserving the charm of its original structure. The use of gable and truss in the design pays homage to traditional architecture, creating a sense of warmth and familiarity. The dramatic neon-lit coffered ceilings in the ballroom-style dining room add a contemporary flair, setting a captivating backdrop for celebrations. The outdoor spaces are equally considered, with a covered patio offering an idyllic setting for wedding ceremonies, complemented by the picturesque views of the sweeping golf course.
A unique feature of this venue is the lighted Cupola, complete with a rope for the bride and groom to ring a bell after their vows, symbolizing the joyous start of their new journey together. This thoughtful detail, along with the venue’s blend of traditional and modern design elements, makes it a distinguished destination for memorable events in Montgomery County.
Exit13 – Transport to Italy on a Vespa and Enjoy Italian Specialties at this Garrett Hill Multigenerational Family Run Gastropub
Exit 13 Gastropub, found at 910 Conestoga Road in Bryn Mawr, Pa. offers more than just its tempting Italian delicacies and handmade pizzas. The restaurant’s distinct and fun-filled design, as characterized by Main Line Today, is a significant attraction. The establishment has been recently revamped under the creative guidance of Luciano Di Felice, the firstborn of Antonio Di Felice, the founder of Garrett Hill Pizza.
The refurbished bistro, named after the Blue Route exit, exudes a Villanova neighborhood charm. It features an arched ceiling, an upper-level dining space, and foldable glass doors resembling a garage style. The interior decor is interestingly playful with Vespa barstools and local license plates, street signs, and motorized European scooters embellishing the walls.
Luciano Di Felice, who envisioned this transformation of the pizzeria, said he wanted the restaurant concept to reflect the freedom and joy that comes from driving small sports cars and bikes in Italy. Vroom!
Have you been to any of these restaurants? We’d love to hear about your experience!
