historic design
See our blog for new projects, announcements, and all things TMS Architects & Interiors.TMS Cofounder John Merkle Named 2025 NH Preservation Achievement Award Winner
Last night was a special evening. We celebrated one of our cofounders, John Merkle, and his winning of a 2025 Preservation Achievement Award through the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance at the beautiful Tilton School. John dedicated over 45 years of his life to helping preserve and revive many of New Hampshire’s historic sites, with highlights including the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel, the Portsmouth Music Hall, and Bridges House in Concord.
From L to R: Principal Architect Jason Bailey, TMS Cofounder John Merkle, Principal Architect Shannon Alther.
Along with his professional contributions, John’s volunteerism is also outstanding, as he has served as a president of the New Hampshire chapter of the AIA, as well as chair of his hometown Exeter Historic District Commission, among other endeavors.
John received his award from leaders of the NH Preservation Alliance.
Tilton School’s Fred A. Smart Chapel, where the award ceremony was held.
We are so happy to see his hard work and dedication recognized and spend time reflecting on the past 41 years of TMS with one of its founders. Congratulations to John and thank you for the foundation that you laid for the TMS legacy!
What Makes Shingle Style so Distinguishable?
TMS Architects and Interiors has been designing beautiful New England homes in a variety of traditional and modern styles for over 35-years. One of those iconic styles is called Shingle Style. Of true New England origin, Shingle Style was made popular in the latter part of the 19th century and was inspired by the idea of a slower, simpler and romantic lifestyle. For this reason, you’ll find this style populating locations where relaxation is a way of life, such as the oceanside, lakefronts and mountainside retreats.
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Architecture Vocabulary: Muntins vs. Mullions
Thanks to the Internet and numerous shows focused on home improvement and real estate, even a casual design enthusiast can build up a pretty robust vocabulary of architectural terms. But beyond terms like “beadboard” and “crown molding,” there are some words and phrases that can trip up even the most experienced of architects. Today, we’re taking this window of opportunity to dig into two of the more often confused architecture words (even among industry pros): Mullion and Muntin
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