About Bailow Architects
Deeply rooted in the communities of Massachusetts, and serving select clients in New Hampshire and Maine, Bailow Architects is led by Principal Chris Bailow, a residential architecture and construction expert in Wellesley, Massachusetts, offering exceptional architectural design services. We specialize in residential projects, comprehensive renovations, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and our Special Projects Division (SPD) which includes services like home theaters, custom furniture, lighting, and millwork.
Founded by Chris Bailow, our work is characterized by thoughtful, innovative design deeply rooted in the New England vernacular tradition. We artfully blend the timeless building patterns of New England with the needs of modern family lifestyles, creating beautiful, enduring homes perfectly tailored for each individual client.
Our boutique size allows us to dedicate individual attention to every client and project, ensuring that Chris Bailow is personally involved throughout the design process, setting the creative vision for each project.
Design Excellence: Thoughtful, Innovative, and Rooted +
Our philosophy at Bailow Architects is deeply rooted in the rich architectural heritage of New England – drawing deeply from the coastal influences and architectural traditions of Maine – and is inspired by its timeless forms and enduring craftsmanship. We approach design by thoughtfully distilling the essence of both tradition and innovation, led by Principal Chris Bailow, whose experience at top-tier residential architecture firms has cultivated a meticulous approach. We blend this deep respect for the past with a forward-thinking vision for modern living, striving to create homes that are not only beautiful and aesthetically resonant but also brilliantly functional and perfectly tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of each client, both for today and for the future.
At Bailow Architects, we believe exceptional homes are built on a foundation of three core principles:
Our Approach:
Material
At Bailow Architects, we believe the selection of materials is fundamental to crafting homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enduring and enhance the lives of their occupants. Principal Chris Bailow's extensive hands-on experience in boat building, carpentry, and timber framing provides an invaluable perspective on material performance and construction. This practical understanding, combined with our commitment to quality and sustainability, guides our choices. Our comprehensive knowledge allows us to guide you through a range of options, balancing your design vision and budgetary considerations to make truly informed choices that represent an intelligent investment in your future.
Craftsmanship
At Bailow Architects, we understand that even the most inspired design relies on the skill and dedication of talented craftspeople. Principal Chris Bailow's career began in the building trades, encompassing years of hands-on experience in boat building, carpentry, and timber framing. This deep personal understanding of construction processes forms the foundation of our collaborative approach. We have cultivated strong relationships with trusted local builders and craftspeople throughout Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, ensuring that every project is executed with precision, care, and a shared commitment to our high standards of quality.
Your Vision, Realized.
Ready to discuss your dream project? At Bailow Architects, our combined elite architectural expertise and construction proficiency, coupled with a deeply client-focused approach, allow us to craft timeless, enduring homes and realize your unique vision.
Tailored Fees for Tailored Architecture
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Tailored Fees for Tailored Architecture +
At Bailow Architects, we believe that exceptional design is an intelligent investment. While our fees are structured specific to each project's unique scope and complexity, they are generally around 7% of the construction cost for full architectural services. Initial consultations are always complimentary, providing an opportunity to discuss your vision without obligation. For more focused engagements or specific design tasks beyond the initial consultation, our rate is $225 per hour.
Our lean operating model allows us to deliver the same top-tier quality, meticulous documentation, and integrated project management of larger, high-end firms, but at a remarkably accessible value for you. This approach ensures your investment directly reflects the work completed, even if the construction phase is not fully realized.
Your partnership with Bailow Architects is a strategic safeguard for your entire construction budget. Our efficient processes, refined by elite experience, minimize costly errors, reduce change orders, and accelerate project timelines, ensuring a truly intelligent return on your investment. We are confident that our pricing offers exceptional value that is well below what you would expect from our competition, without any compromise on quality or comprehensive service.
We believe a personalized conversation is essential to accurately tailor our services and provide a precise quote for your unique vision. Please contact us to schedule your free initial consultation and discuss your project in detail.
EXPORE OUR EXPERTISE
INTEGRATED EXPERTISE
We craft enduring, beautiful homes through a blend of elite architectural insight and hands-on construction proficiency. Our lean model ensures exceptional design and unparalleled value from concept to completion.
Special Projects (SPD)
For unique, highly customized, and complex architectural challenges, including meticulous historic renovations and bespoke installations, our SPD delivers unparalleled precision and artistry.
Accessory dwelling units (adu)
Unlock new possibilities for your property. Our expertise in ADU design and navigating local regulations ensures a seamless process for adding flexible living spaces, tailored to your needs and compliant with local guidelines.
Common Questions & Insights
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The Special Projects Division (SPD) is a specialized branch dedicated to bringing highly customized, unique, and often complex construction and renovation projects to life. We excel where standard building approaches fall short, catering to clients who demand exceptional quality, bespoke design, and specialized functionalities for their properties. Our distinctive capability lies in our flexible and scalable approach, allowing us to manage commissions of virtually any size, from intricate singular installations to extensive, multi-faceted property transformations.
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An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. These can include converted garages, basement apartments, or detached backyard cottages. ADUs offer flexible living solutions for aging family members, rental income opportunities, or additional living space, and Bailow Architects specializes in navigating local zoning ordinances and permitting for their seamless integration.
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ur philosophy blends the timeless elegance of New England vernacular – drawing deeply from the coastal influences and architectural traditions of Maine – with innovative, sophisticated aesthetics cultivated in top-tier residential firms. We create homes that are functional, exquisitely detailed, and deeply personal.
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