Design Matters

Thoughts of an Architect

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Our blog, Design Matters, is a place for our team to share our knowledge, community events, projects, resources, and opinions. It is a place for you to keep up with us and for us to hear from you. Thanks for reading!

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Bowl for Kids Sake 2018: Support your local teams!

I am participating in Bowl for Kids Sake again this year to support Big Brothers Big Sisters. I originally got ...

Why Hire an Architect? Know the Answers, Build the Solution

Hiring an architect is more than aesthetics, it is getting the answers before building the solution. This is a big ...
Air Leaks: Seal Your Light Switches to Make Your Home More Comfortable

Air Leaks: Seal Your Light Switches to Make Your Home More Comfortable

Air leaks at light switches are a big cause of comfort issues in your home. There is an old saying in the ...

Evolution Glass: Innovative Locally-Made Building Product

We are always on the look out for new products in the construction industry. We pride ourselves in knowing the ...

Freezing Pipes: Should I Be Worried?

Unprotected Pipes: Unprotected pipes are susceptible to cold temperatures because water expands when it goes from ...

A Well-Placed Addition Allows For New Life in an Old Space

A well-placed addition allows for a new life in an old space. This renovation brings in light, adds space, and ...

Architectural Salvage Fun

Architectural Salvage Fun It is always fun to check out an architectural salvage store. You never know what you ...

A Story of Career Development by a Blue Ridge Community College Student

Career development is a great focus of the Gaines Group in helping students become architects. Alex Alvarez is a ...

Visit with Santa at the Chesapeake Western Railroad Depot First Friday Art Opening

Join us for a very special First Friday night before heading downtown to the Harrisonburg Holiday Parade. On ...

10 tips to go green this Thanksgiving

10 tips to go green this Thanksgiving Shop Local for your Thanksgiving feast – go to the local farmer’s ...
Insulation in Your Attic Can Determine Your Comfort in Your Living Room

Insulation in Your Attic Can Determine Your Comfort in Your Living Room

It is important to have the right amount of insulation in your attic: The minimum amount of insulation you should ...
Get an Energy Audit to Verify Your House Doesn’t Have Unwanted Guests

Get an Energy Audit to Verify Your House Doesn’t Have Unwanted Guests

I went out to do an energy audit at Massanutten yesterday. The home was clearly well maintained. It was 30+ years ...