by Charles Hendricks | Jan 1, 2025 | architecture, Bryce Resort, Harrisonburg Architect, project update
Another renovation / addition project is in the works at Bryce Resort. This home has served as a weekend getaway for years now, but our clients are starting to spend more time there and need new functional spaces added. We have done some preliminary design sketches to make sure we understood the space function and needs. This process helps coordinate the budget to the program to the priorities. Our next step was a site visit to determine how the grades will impact the design – so Aimee and I worked on figuring out how much slope exists on this home site.
The balance that happens in renovation work has to be done with a lot of careful planning or you end up with a lot of surprises during construction. Of course, there is almost always something uncovered during the demolition phase that is a surprise, but the more we can figure out on paper the less you will pay during the construction phase. We work hard to balance the client’s goals and budget with the existing construction and building site conditions. Our job is to listen well to the client’s goals and figure out a way to maximize the opportunity. Not only thinking through space planning and aesthetics, but also trying to figure out what details the builder will need to be as efficient as possible. Working on a steep slope lot there is not a lot of room to not have most of the answers in advance of the construction process starting.
Working at Bryce Resort on several projects now, we have gotten to know what materials and builders are available. There are a wide range of quality builders working on projects there and we always want the best qualified for our clients. Having a plan with all the details and goals before the builder sets the budget is one of the best protections our clients can have in construction. We have heard all the horror stories of construction projects that have gone wrong without the proper planning in place before construction – we help prevent those things that could go wrong from going wrong. Construction is complicated and there is no way to plan for every contingency, but a solid design in advance will deliver the most economical solution in the end.
by Charles Hendricks | Dec 30, 2024 | architecture, Commercial Architect, green term defined, Harrisonburg Architect, project update
The Oriental Express and Catering restaurant is now open on Port Republic Road in Rockingham County. We loved working on this new concept restaurant and hope they are overwhelmingly successful. Based on our first visit there – they will be.
The food is awesome and the service is top notch.
When we started designing this new concept restaurant for our client, we were given a footprint by the civil engineer that limited our flexibility. We knew how much space we needed for a kitchen and refrigeration, but we had to figure out the flow and seating options. The style, color, finishes, and textures were all ready to be discovered. We worked hard to find the right mix that not only stood out to attract customers, but also to complement the food. The end result brought in fresh and bright colors underscoring the vibrant food options and quick service. This bright dining room invites you in to enjoy the space and the views. The bold colors give a youthful appeal to the space. I am thrilled with how it has come together.
If you have not been there to try the food, you should go, asap!
by Charles Hendricks | Dec 29, 2024 | architecture, Bryce Resort, Harrisonburg Architect, project update
It is not hard to find a classic A frame home at Bryce resort. The challenge is often to find one that has enough space for the entire family to gather, provide some private spaces to take a break from family, and have plenty of outdoor space to gather. Our clients have enjoyed this home for years, but as their family expands it has proven to be a little small for everyone to come together. The A-frame, like many at Bryce Resort, sits on piers with no basement beneath. We needed to evaluate multiple options to figure out the best way to expand the existing house to meet the new goals for the property.
We discussed, sketched, and tried out a few options including adding a basement level vs doing an attached addition. The results all led us back to the same conclusion. A deck addition with a sleeping quarters attached (detached from the existing house) would be the most economical solution and would provide the best space. We worked through a deck stair connection, added the outdoor gathering space needed, and efficiently figured out the new sleeping quarters footprint.
Construction, has started and the foundation holes were dug last time we visited the site. The small bungalow space will be the right solution for this family to continue to gather and make memories at this property. We are looking forward to the builders, Over the Mountain Builders, to start putting the parts and pieces together.
by Charles Hendricks | Oct 26, 2024 | architecture, Charlottesville, project update
Albemarle County Custom Homes and Renovations
Our firm was founded in Charlotteville, Virginia over 36 years ago. In that time we have designed 100s of homes and renovation projects for our community. We have built solid relationships with quality builders and know this community. From Key West to Glenmore, Old Trail to Ivy, Keswick to Earlysville we love working on traditional to modern styles. Our work infuses building science into all types of homes making them durable, energy efficient, healthy, and beautiful.
Renovations and Additions
Renovation and addition work in the Albemarle County area often allows us to bring a traditional style home into a functional modern solution. This home we added an in-law suite on the rear of the existing brick ranch house.
Custom Homes
We have 100s of custom homes designed to provide a dream life on beautiful dream lots. The styles of home that we have had the opportunity to design include prarie, modern, traditional and more.
Interior Design Consulting
We also offer interior design consulting. We can help create a plan to update your existing home. Our connections with trusted material suppliers provide many options for you to choose from.
by Charles Hendricks | Oct 23, 2024 | architecture, Bryce Resort, Harrisonburg Architect, project update
Bryce Resort Custom Homes and Renovations
Our firm loves working in beautiful communities and one of our favorites is Bryce Resort. This stunning 400 acre member-owned resort features skiing, golf, mountain activities, mountain biking, tennis, fishing, and water sports. We provide many services here including custom homes, additions and renovations, and interior design consulting.
Renovations and Additions
Our work at Bryce Resort includes additions and renovations. We have experience with Bryce Resort design guidelines, quality builders in the area, and how to navigate affordability challenges.
Custom Homes
Custom homes on steep lots provide interesting design opportunities. We will work hard to understand your vision to create your dream home.
Interior Design Consulting
We also offer interior design consulting. We can help create a plan to update your existing home. Our connections with trusted material suppliers provide many options for you to choose from.
by Charles Hendricks | Sep 24, 2024 | architecture, Charlottesville, project update, Wintergreen Resort
Two exciting renovations are underway in Charlottesville and Wintergreen! Check out the in-progress photos below.
Renovation in Charlottesville
Photos courtesy of M3, Inc.
This older 1970s home in the Key West Subdivision in Charlottesville is being renovated to have a new primary bedroom suite and kitchen expansion. A new living room expansion is off of the rear as well. An exciting feature of this renovation project is the addition of an entertainment area below the primary suite, which will include a golf simulator. Stay tuned for updates on this space!
Renovation at Wintergreen
Our second project update is in Wintergreen Resort. Over the years, our client has enjoyed this home for family gatherings and ski trips, and they needed more space for their growing family. We helped to turn an existing open-air covered porch into two additional bedrooms and a bathroom. In addition to these bedrooms, there will be a large deck overlooking the mountains which will lead you to a new covered pavilion with a stone-covered fireplace. It’s easy to imagine those cozy, cold days sitting around the fire.
