At last, the momentous day has arrived. You and your designer have agreed on a plan for your project, the drawings are done, and you’re ready to start building. But wait – you still need to choose a contractor. Whom do you entrust with the all-important job of turning your dream into physical reality? [Read more…]
‘Damn-Near Passive House’ revisited
Our client, Roy de Vries, asked me to share my perspective on the experience of designing his Damn-Near Passive House. Roy is well into the construction of his new home, and I’m taking a few days off, so I thought it was a good time for reflection. It’s been a long and winding road, to be sure… [Read more…]
The Garage: here today, gone tomorrow?
Some columnists in popular media have been wondering whether the garage is on its way out. They cite recent census data (from the U.S.) that show a steady increase in the percentage of homes built without a garage or carport — a surprising 8% at the height of the housing boom in 2004, rising to 13% in 2011. It seems that homeowners are opting for neighbourly front porches instead of the 1990s-standard, oversized garage that took up most of the view from the curb. [Read more…]
Designing for Difficult Building Sites
“It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare, it is because we do not dare that they are difficult.” – Seneca
The philosopher was right. In my career, there have been many building sites that cost me blood, sweat and tears, but none that gave rise to regrets. In fact, some of the most challenging projects that I’ve undertaken turned out to be the most satisfying in retrospect. [Read more…]
Home Is Where the Hearth Is: Designing Your Kitchen
The poet Byron wrote, “Since Eve ate apples, much depends on dinner”. It follows naturally that much depends on the kitchen. Of all the areas you live in, the kitchen may have the biggest impact on how accommodating and comfortable your home feels. Resonant with the history of simple family meals and great feasts alike, it’s a place where memories are made. [Read more…]
Planning For Pets
Recently my family became the proud guardians of a lovely rescue dog from Mexico. Canela (Spanish for “cinnamon”) has undergone quite a transformation from feral to family, and in the process she has made our lives much bigger with her quiet and loving presence. As her photo suggests, she’s a big girl. Her mellow nature allowed her to integrate into our home almost effortlessly. [Read more…]