Every contractor and every Architect has heard the question many times – “Do I need a building permit for my project?” Or to put it more accurately, “Do I need to pay for an expensive building permit, and go through the hassle and delays of inspections...
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Single-story homes were at the height of their popularity in the middle of the 20th century. Those designed with traditional styling have always been called “ranches”; less traditional ones are now often called “mid-century Modern”. Mid-century modern and ranch additions have become a big part...
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Homeowners spend a lot of time picking out cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, appliances, and lighting for their kitchens, but sometimes, not enough time thinking through basic functions. A frequent example of that is the height of a raised countertop on a kitchen island, sometimes also called...
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That big, blank space over the fireplace mantle is just sitting there. It looks empty and bare. And it’s just about the right size for a big flat screen TV. Why not put a TV over the fireplace? It’s a good idea, right? Nope, it’s a bad...
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If you’re thinking of building a new home, you’re probably looking at empty property – a lot in a subdivision, or like many of my clients, a larger bit of land further out. Or maybe you’re buying an existing house with the intent to renovate it...
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A client asked me this question recently: "What is the first step in designing a house, the floor plan or the outside of the house?" Good question - the answer is a little complicated, and subjective, and contradictory...
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A friend of mine put me on the spot when she asked me over to take a look at the new home she was looking to purchase. "I'm not sure what I should be looking for" she asked. "What is quality construction?" For the price, sure,...
Read MoreYou're one step away from Knock Knock - watch for an email asking you to confirm your email address. Click on that link, and you're in! If you don't get the confirmation email, just re-subscribe. Cheers, Richard Taylor, AIAPresidentRichard Taylor Architects ...
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When you begin working with your Architect, you might think you need to start by figuring out what house style to choose. That’s not a bad place to begin if you’re dead-set on a particular architectural style, or if you're building in an area that requires it....
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Two demons wait for unsuspecting homeowners, hoping for their chance to gobble up time and money for those who don't plan ahead for a new home or remodeling project. The Ripple Effect lurks quietly in the background. Just like the movements on the pond surface for...
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