Design is Dialogue

It starts with us listening to you. But if you want to hear more about Platform, we’re glad to share our story.

We chose the name Platform because it reflects what we do. In architectural terms, a “plat” refers to a piece of land and “form” is the shape of a building. To make a great place these two elements are in conversation with each other. The existing conditions (of your life, of the property, and of the community) inform the buildable solution that we discover together!

In some ways a tree is a useful metaphor for this good building - the shape of a tree is perfectly adapted, even sculpted, by interactions with the forces of the site - flows of energy in the form of light, wind, water, and soil nutrients, other plants, and animals. The tree grows, changes, and weathers over the span of many years and also responds to each season with elegance and repose.

A large green tree with a thick trunk standing in a grassy field, with smaller trees and a forest in the background under a cloudy sky.

We also like the name Platform because it pays tribute to how we build today and our why. Platform framing is the method for building homes today, using walls made from wood studs with each floor structure serving as the “platform” for the level above. A platform is meant to elevate. We know the technical details and can create effective plans, but our main goal is to uplift YOUR everyday life. For us it’s all about you.

Wooden framing of a building under construction with visible supporting beams and studs.

A Personal Note

“I grew up in Neenah, Wisconsin, and developed a love for architecture after discovering the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. As I got older, I followed this passion by studying and practicing architecture. I earned an Associate's degree in Architectural Technology from Milwaukee Area Technical College and then a Bachelor's degree in Architectural Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Before starting Platform House Plans, I worked in architecture firms in the Greater Milwaukee Area and Chicago over six years. I bring this passion for excellent design and technical capability to every project I have the pleasure to work on. I’ve personally experienced the life-changing power of architecture and want to bring that energy to my clients every day.”

-Ben Zerrien

Founder and Residential Designer

A man with glasses and a smile, wearing a light gray zip-up jacket over a blue collared shirt, standing outside in front of a stone building with a window.