So you’ve decided on a project and checked out the websites of a few local architects, and now it’s time for your initial architect consultation. Whether you’re taking advantage of a free consultation or paying an architect for her time, how well prepared you are for that first meeting can make the difference between a
When people find out I’m an architect, they almost always want to talk about their projects. Whether it’s a home remodel, a new retail space for their business or a new commercial building, one of the first questions that usually comes up is, “Do I really need an architect for that?” In some cases, the
Tenant improvements (TIs) – also known as leasehold improvements or build-outs – are changes you make to a leased commercial space to make it ready for you to do business. The cost of these improvements will typically be partially or fully defrayed by your landlord through a tenant improvement allowance (TIA) you negotiate during
Wildfire season is in full swing here in California, and it’s a sad fact of life that we all need to be prepared in case we get the unwelcome message that a fire is heading our way. As an architect helping rebuild after 2017’s Tubbs Fire, I’ve gotten a first-hand look at how a wildfire
Accessible design should be near the top of your list of things to consider when you’re remodeling or designing a new retail space. Given that the 2010 census found that 19 percent of the U.S. population lives with some form of disability, creating retail environments that are accessbile, safe and welcoming for all isn’t only
This post previously ran in 2016. Starting a large building or remodeling project can seem intimidating, especially if you’ve never worked with an architect before. You’ll probably have lots of questions about timing, process and cost, and a host of others are bound to come up as your project progresses. To take some of
This post first ran in 2015. Green design, also known as sustainable design, was once an afterthought – a nice "extra" to think about after the big design decisions had been made. As our awareness of the importance of caring for our planet has grown, green design has evolved to become a key consideration for
Building design can have a signficant impact on your health. According to the landmark National Human Activity Pattern Survey (NHAPS), conducted between 1992 and 1994, people spend an average of 87 percent of their lives in enclosed buildings, where pollutants like tobacco smoke, volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), asbestos, pesticides and carbon monoxide can prolilferate and,
(This post originally ran in 2016.) Solar shading is a system of controlling the effects of the sun’s heat and light for your home or office. It allows you to make the most of natural light, heat, and shade for a more comfortable, eco-friendly environment. Benefits A well-designed solar shading system helps you regulate the
This post previously ran in 2017. Earthquakes are a fact of life in the Bay Area. The same geologic features that create our dramatic mountains-meet-ocean vistas mean we have to live with a little bit – or sometimes a lot – of shaking. California’s building codes are continually updated based on emerging research and lessons
