by Charles Hendricks | Jan 31, 2018 | architecture
Hiring an architect is more than aesthetics, it is getting the answers before building the solution.
This is a big concept that not many think about in the construction industry. Getting the answers before building starts saves the client money and increases the builders profit. It is the best path to achieve your goals because the architect will guide you through the process.
How does this fit into construction?
I wonder how often that really happens in construction: you find a perfect plan online or get a drafter to draw up the solution, but no time has been spent getting the answers. Were all the questions even asked?
One of the many things an architect can bring to the table is a chance for you to make sure the solution is a good fit before you build it. Our job is to listen to what you want to achieve, ask you questions, and offer you solutions. In this case, pictured, the clients wanted desk space in this addition to their home. The opening goes into their existing kitchen so we were looking at a more traditional desk arrangement vs a bar / eating space solution. Both offered desk space, but living in those spaces will be very different. Being able to visualize the options prior to finishing the drawings and well before cabinets are ordered allowed the clients to make an informed decision about the solution they wanted.
An architect will take some of the stress out of the process. We have done this many times and know the typical questions that will come up. We want to make sure we ask the right questions and deliver design solutions that meet your expectations. We also want to give you a visual tour of the finished product in a way that you can best understand it – before construction. This will save you money and the builder will increase their profit. This is the right path forward for construction projects.
by Charles Hendricks | Jan 30, 2018 | architecture, Building Science, Indoor Air Quality
Air leaks at light switches are a big cause of comfort issues in your home. There is an old saying in the construction industry that “you don’t want to build to tight.” So what window do you want to leave out of your home? The reality is leaks around light switches, electrical outlets, doors, windows, recessed lights, water pipes… and on and on are how we achieve “not too tight.” The unfortunate part is air leaks hurt the comfort in your home and impacts your monthly energy usage. It also impacts your indoor air quality.
Sealing up all the leaks is difficult to achieve in an existing home. These pictures show the drastic impact air can have around one light switch on an exterior wall. Read this post to see what fixes you can make, but if you want to save money and improve the comfort in you home – schedule an energy audit today. Give us a call at 540-437-0012 to start the process.
by Charles Hendricks | Jan 29, 2018 | architecture
We are always on the look out for new products in the construction industry. We pride ourselves in knowing the options and being able to select the best solutions for our clients. It is rare to find a locally made 100% recycled product that looks this cool. Check out this summary from Bill Hess, owner of Evolution Glass in Charlottesville. If you want to see a sample of his product, I have a few in my office.
Bill Hess’ description of his glass counter top:
In our local community, around our nation and internationally, there is an abundance of glass waste. In fact, only a small portion of glass is actually recycled (around 30%). Surprisingly, much of it ends up in the landfill. Not only is this uneconomical and inefficient, it can also be a health hazard. Contrasted to plastic, paper or metal waste (much higher percentages are recycled for those materials), there is very little market value for glass waste. The portion of waste glass that is recycled goes toward creating new containers, making fiberglass insulation, and being integrated into road construction materials… an ironic ending to something that has such a personal relationship to us through our food and drink.
Evolution Glass solves a problem
To address this problem, Evolution Glass has created a unique looking-glass surface that offers a viable alternative for recycling glass containers. This surface has the transparent look of high-end art glass, and it is highly functional. Due to its thickness and the process used to create the surface, it has a durability comparable to stone. Evolution Glass is suitable for counter tops, tables, backsplashes, interior wall panels and more.
Unique company
The company is one of only 4 countertop companies in the world that create solid glass surfaces made entirely of recycled glass (most products combine recycled glass with epoxy or cement as a binder). The look of our product is completely different and strikingly beautiful. Learn more at
www.evolutionglassglobal.com where you can see color options, examples of completed installations, submit an inquiry about a project or schedule a visit to our facility in Charlottesville.
by Charles Hendricks | Dec 26, 2017 | architecture
Unprotected Pipes:
Unprotected pipes are susceptible to cold temperatures because water expands when it goes from liquid to solid form. Ice blockage becomes more likely when outside temperatures drop to below freezing. A cold wind reaching unprotected pipes quickly removes heat and increases the chance of ice formation. Water pressure builds between the ice blockage and a closed faucet can burst the pipe.
Will they Freeze?
Pipes on exterior walls and /or above uninsulated basements are a concern on nights below freezing. Unconditioned crawl spaces may also be a problem for you. Opening cabinet doors should keep pipes plenty warm to avoid a problem. Lack of insulation in the floor will tend to (waste energy) warm uninsulated basements offering some protection. All hoses should be disconnected from faucets outside all winter. The only time you should worry in our area is when we have a week of freezing weather, but even then, it rarely gets cold enough here to matter. Typically the kitchen sink, bathtub, and washer are concern areas. Keep the heat on in the house, open cabinet doors for caution, and hope this winter stays mild as is our new normal.
However, if you live in a home that lacks proper heat, insulation, or pipe placement – all of these ideas do not apply.
What to do if they Freeze.
If your pipes do freeze, shut off the water immediately. Don’t attempt to thaw pipes without turning off the main shut-off valve. Thaw pipes with warm air. You can melt the ice in the pipe by warming the air around it with a hair dryer or space heater. Be careful when you turn the water back on. Once the pipes have thawed, slowly turn the water on to test for leaks.
by Charles Hendricks | Dec 20, 2017 | architecture, Harrisonburg Architect, project update
A well-placed addition allows for a new life in an old space. This renovation brings in light, adds space, and offers the function to this existing home. The owners needed a paint studio with more light. The house is in the right location in town and has the right amount of space. However, he wanted a little more space to further explore his painting passion.
This home owner did elaborate drawings to figure out what was needed with the addition, but lacked the technical knowledge for the structural design. So we did a code review, architectural consult, and structural design for this addition. The project has been slower than if a contractor was building it, but again this home owner wanted to take on the challenge.
There have been a lot of questions, but this home owner plans everything out and does the research needed for success.
by Charles Hendricks | Dec 18, 2017 | architecture
Architectural Salvage Fun
It is always fun to check out an architectural salvage store. You never know what you might find and where it may lead you. From what appears to be space guns to trains, crosses, and stained glass – there is something for everyone.
You have to use your imagination on this one, but wouldn’t it be fun to integrate part of an airplane into a new design project? It could be a great addition to a restaurant, daycare, or a man cave (of considerable size of course).
What about a barrel of toys?
Concrete mushrooms would be a fun addition to any garden.
I am trying to figure out where we can install a giant E. Could it be part of a daycare?
This Christmas tree has a train running around it – how cool is that? I know this would look great at the Depot!
This amazing chair would be a great addition to any living room.
I am not sure I will ever have a project that has a need for a cross with Jesus or a rustic wood cross, but I would love to find a place for this stained glass. Either one of those would look great in a living room.
Looking for the beauty in the leftover parts and pieces adds texture and depth to any design. These stores exist in several places around the state – I encourage you to go dream when you have a chance.
