Permeable paving benefits communities by reducing the amount of impervious surface and runoff. Interlocking concrete pavers make up an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance permeable paving surface. Consider using permeable pavement for your next driveway, patio, or walkway project. What is it? Permeable: having pores or openings that permit liquids or gases to pass through. Permeable paving products […]
A dream garage is on the wish list of many homeowners. With small or large changes, a dream garage can be within reach. Start with a facelift, improving the look and feel of your garage with new finishes and lighting. Add new features to your existing garage or, if your budget allows, build a new […]
Luxury vinyl tile is taking the flooring industry by storm. It has the versatility, good looks, durability, water-resistance, and ease of maintenance that will serve you well in both commercial and residential settings. Consider using luxury vinyl tile for your next flooring project. Luxury vinyl tile is often a good alternative to ceramic tile flooring. […]
Wrought iron is a strong, durable material that is both functional and ornamental. In New Orleans’ French Quarter, wrought and cast iron are very common. On a recent visit, we saw many beautiful examples in the balconies and galleries of the historic buildings. We especially appreciated the wrought iron corn stalks, acorns, leaves, and flowers […]
Shutters add a distinctive appearance to traditional- and historic-style homes and businesses. Exterior shutters may be the perfect way to dress up your building! Opt for shutters made with quality materials and construction methods and you will be happy with the results for years to come. Origin of Shutters The original shutters may have been […]
Carbon fiber is one of the most popular newer building materials. It is usually combined with other substances to form a composite material. Carbon fiber has become a go-to product because of its many advantages over traditional materials, including a high strength and low weight. What is carbon fiber? Carbon fiber (CF) consists of very […]
Converting commercial properties into homes is an exciting trend in both cities and suburban areas. Warehouse, office, and store conversions enable renters and homeowners to access desirable features: additional square footage, convenient locations, and a modern, open space. Commercial developers can respond to demand and achieve great financial results, boosting property values and maximizing a […]
Are you thinking about converting a house to a business property? House conversions are fairly common and are often successful for small businesses. Before moving ahead with your own house conversion project, be sure to investigate the zoning and building issues that pertain to the residential property you are considering. Converting a house Houses are […]
Heat loss is inevitable in a cold climate. Here in the Midwest, we just take for granted that buildings won’t be totally comfortable on bitter cold winter days and nights. However, there are ways we can minimize heat loss, save energy, and increase building comfort in the winter. Where does all the heat go? Let’s […]
In recognition of African American History Month, we thought we’d feature the trail-blazing architect Paul Williams, FAIA. Best known as the “architect to the stars”, Williams was also the first certified African American architect west of the Mississippi. Williams has been posthumously honored with the 2017 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Gold Medal. Paul Williams […]
A while back (in 2012) we wrote a short blog article about the importance of a good building foundation. In the article, we made a case for foundations as the most important part of the building. Here’s why: the structure rests on the foundation and relies on the foundation to carry the load. Recently, a […]
Designer chairs from early and mid-century are all the rage! What is it about these chairs that resonate with today’s consumers? We would argue that designer chairs are timeless, modern classics. They work well with our modern sensibility, combining modern design with exceptional craftsmanship. The field of furniture design appeals to architects who are preoccupied […]
Then and Now. Several other architects inspired me to compare what it was like as an architecture student, way back when with my life today. It’s been quite a journey… It’s been over 30 years since I was an architecture student at U of I and Rice. There’s been lots of change and much of it […]
Our 2016 Favorite Things At the end of the year, do you look back and think about your favorite things? Here at the office, we have a tradition of reflecting back on products that really worked for us and experiences that were really special. 2016 was a great year for our city, our clients, and […]
Handmade vs. machine-made, which aesthetic do you prefer? We like both! Each aesthetic can be attractive on its own or combined with the other. Chuck and I both enjoy doing carpentry, furniture building and tinkering in general. We appreciate beautiful things made by hand. We also appreciate the more precise aesthetic and ease of assembly of […]
