As a Junior at James Madison University studying Architectural Design, I’ve heard my share (and more!) about sustainable design and how our environment is worsening each year. But as a college-level architect, I know my sustainable designs and ideas won’t be...

This time of year it is sometimes hard to get warm. Does your house have that one room that is always a few degrees colder than the rest of the house? Are there places in your home you don’t use this time of year? Look for the air leak if your house is cold or uncomfortable...

Guest Post by Architect Deborah Smith. I am a self-proclaimed homebody, but nothing will peel me off the couch faster than getting to travel and experience new places and old/new buildings.  The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C. has been on my list of places to visit for quite...

We love working with non-profits in our community that are doing good work. The Harrisonburg Rockingham Child Day Care Center is one such client and have just kicked off their capital campaign. This organization provides full-day child care and learning opportunities in a secure...

Are you looking for a locally made well-crafted gift for someone special this year? Check out Unlimited Creations & Design, LLC. They have made several items for me and it is always beyond expectation. Bryan Shirkey is a true craftsman. He created this coat rack for my office...

CrossRoads Valley Brethren-Mennonite Heritage Center is hosting a Gingerbread House design competition. I hope you will bring your a game and please don’t limit your construction to a simple A frame house! I am serving as a judge for the gingerbread house design competition...

It is time to show off your Depot coloring contest entries! Starting tomorrow, December 1st, at noon, bring in a finished Depot coloring contest page and get a Gaines Group flashlight (while supplies last). Each coloring page with a name and email address on the back will also be...

It is that time of year again when you all start thinking – what should I get my favorite architect for the holidays. Of course, the main gift every architect wants is a happy client! Next on the list is probably that next cool project so we can make that next client....

Each month on the First Friday we host a new artist art opening in our building’s 2nd floor gallery at the Chesapeake Western Depot at 141 W. Bruce St. (second floor entrance is on Chesapeake). Artwork will remain on exhibit through the month. Come view the show and get a tour...

This time of year my phone starts ringing on a regular basis for our free energy audit service. People do not like being cold and uncomfortable in their homes and we can help them solve this problem. If you live in the Harrisonburg / Rockingham County area, give our office a call...