In the past weeks, I’ve written about the environmental, economic, and social benefits of repurposing buildings – also known as adaptive reuse – and about some of the most popular types of buildings currently being adapted. Over the next few posts, I’d like to take a look at some of the other kinds of structures
In her 2016 TED Talk, disability rights advocate Elise Roy said: The unique experiences people with disabilities have is going to be what helps us make and design a better world for everyone. The concept Roy describes is known as universal design, an idea wherein designers strive to create environments that empower all people to
Last week, I talked about what makes repurposed buildings such a great choice for businesses and communities. Now, I’d like to look at the kinds of buildings savvy business owners are reclaiming and renovating. The options for repurposed buildings are limited only by supply and your (and your architect’s) imagination. Existing offices and retail spaces
Repurposed buildings are having a moment. A few weeks ago, I identified repurposed buildings as a commercial architecture trend for 2019, and now I’d like to expand on why they’re becoming a more important part of the architectural landscape and why I think they’re a great choice for business owners. What Are Repurposed Buildings? A
Installing a solar energy system for your commercial building can be a great choice, with both financial and environmental benefits. I recently spoke with Taylor Poff, a project manager with solar installer JBL Solar Energy, a Sonoma County company with extensive experience in commercial installations, who passed on some important tips for business owners considering
The original version of this post ran in 2016. One of the best ways to lower your project's environmental footprint is to use green building materials. Whether it's a simple kitchen remodel or a new, multi-unit office building, if you want to reduce your impact on our environment, there are five key questions to ask
The hospitality industry has been an essential part of California's economy for more than a hundred years, and hospitality spaces have been a defining element of California architecture. These three buildings are among my favorites, encompassing a variety of styles, each of which beautifully reflects California's unique relaxed-yet-elegant aesthetic.
Commercial architecture plays an important role in a business’s branding strategy. Whether you’re creating a new space or renovating an older one, it pays to be aware of trends and how they can affect public perception of your business. We’re now far enough into 2019 to see how some trends are evolving and how you
A commercial building project is complex. It often involves a large team of people with different skills, time pressures and communication styles. When you add the worries any entrepreneur has when building a new business or revamping an old one – local competition, market changes, permitting issues and environmental requirements, to name just a few
Last week, I wrote about the essentials of cannabis dispensary design. Today, I want to dig a little deeper into how you can use design-based branding strategies to differentiate your business from the competition in this growing industry. Design for the Clients You Want In any retail business, it’s important to understand your client base
