Themed Design

Theme is another approach that supports the design and budgeting of a project. The featured home had a strong design theme that reflected a historic architectural style. Decisions were made based on the interpretation of appropriateness to the style. We researched photos and publications, to achieve the right combination of products and finishes to compliment the architecture.

Even the floor plan can be influenced by architectural style. Since vernacular architecture was most-often designed within a regional climate, the lifestyle of the occupants dictated how spaces were used and related to each other. Porches, roof pitch and exterior finishes are the most recognized influences.

Additional benefits to the themed design approach include, timeless appeal, enhanced lifestyle, energy efficiency and improved comfort. Feel free to ask how we can help you benefit from this and other aspects of functional design.

Cat Boxes

After posting photos of the new kittens that were visiting last night, I received a couple questions about the box where they were sharing their dinner.

On one side of our laundry room we built cubbies for the kids clean laundry and school books, etc. The two cabinets sit on a bench that is open underneath. Beneath the bench I built two rolling boxes that could be used for storing shoes or sports equipment. In our case we use them as cat boxes.

The box on the left has another shallow box that sits down in it. The shallow box has a removable liner for the cat litter. The box on the right holds food and water.

Both of the boxes can be easily rolled out for cleaning and someday if we become empty-nesters (without a cat), we can use the boxes for some other purpose.

Choose a Builder for Product or Service?

My friend, Tracy DeCarlo just posted an article describing one of the reasons many home construction projects go wrong. She hit one of the nails right on the head. Lack of specifications and an incomplete set of construction documents, expose the owner to potential change orders and expensive oversights. Omissions and inadequate allowances are typically the culprits when one builder's price is substantially less than another's. But there's another issue that often sets the stage to cautiously approach the selection of a home builder.

Most buyers choose a builder based on their product, not the service they provide. Few builders win awards for their service although many are recognized for award-winning designs. Some builders have a keen eye for details and aesthetics, but the reality is that most designs are the work of someone other than the builder. The point here is to focus first on the service provided by the builder, then consider the product. Do the skills and processes demonstrated by the builder indicate that they can manage the project efficiently without surprise and extra cost? Ask your builder about the procedural systems they use for managing their projects.

Adaptable Design

Adaptable Design refers to the ability of a home to suit multiple and changing needs of its occupants. As a family grows or ages, their needs for space and functionality evolve. There are several considerations related to the specific needs of a family but also to the changing demographics of what defines a family and the occupants of a home.

The life-cycle of a conventional family follows a somewhat predictable path, but this of course depends on the definition of "conventional". Several new descriptions of family types have been coined in recent years and demographics are constantly changing. 

Adaptable design attempts to address the needs of the changing family unit and allow a home to serve its occupants over time without compromises or expensive renovations.

The process of designing for adaptability starts with a look at the family unit:

• Families with young children usually desire bedrooms that are grouped together. Young children may actually prefer sharing a bedroom or bathroom with a sibling.
• Pre-teen children may not yet require privacy, but have some specialized needs that include study space and entertaining their friends. Spaces shared by the family may not be suitable for activities that include video games and internet browsing.
• Teenagers desire privacy for themselves and their friends. The home where the teenagers prefer to hangout may (or may not) be conducive to healthy growth of the family.
• When children leave for college, the home may have an empty feeling, but parents are often reluctant to downsize too quickly in case of "rebound". The current economy and lifestyle of young working adults has contributed to more college graduates moving back in with their parents.
• The number of multi-generational households is also on the rise. As well as the above factors, increased lifespans may contribute to elderly parents moving into the family home. Add to that cultural preferences, and the number of households with three or even four generations under one roof is on the rise.
• Empty Nesters are frequently active and social, but not yet ready for retirement. Without the additional family members under the roof, they want to entertain or travel, and be free from maintenance or management of a large home. Their needs have evolved away from "family" but they might still want some space for family members when they come to visit.

For these reasons and many others, adaptable design should allow a home to function successfully through as many of life's phases as possible. We look forward to discussing your household needs and creating a special home design just for you.

These two homes both feature courtyard floor plans with cabana suites which are ideal for in-laws, college students or an office with private entrance. Please follow these links for more:

Hamilton Residence

Lujo Rustico

Best Price or Best Value?

Lasting value starts with a good price. The lowest cost isn't always the best value, but it’s a good place to start. The term “value” can mean something a little different to everyone asked. Everyone defines good value a little differently, but to most it’s a balance between cost, performance and quality.

A home with Lasting Value should have these characteristics:

• reasonable initial price and operating costs;
• functional design and good performance;
• low maintenance and durability, and;
• timeless emotional and market appeal.

Value Strategies are techniques used to understand and obtain the best value on a project. Look for more posts on the subject of value coming up...