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Mar 12, 2024

Preconstruction site work is an essential and often underappreciated phase in the development of any architectural project. It’s the unsung heroes of this stage—the surveyors, engineers, and environmental consultants—who ensure that the foundation of our structures is solid, both literally and figuratively.

AI Interpretation of Site Design

AI Interpretation of Site Design

They meticulously assess the permeability of the soil, which is crucial for managing storm water and preventing runoff. In critical areas, especially on sloped sites, their expertise is vital in preserving the natural landscape, including existing trees and retaining walls. Speaking of retaining walls, these structures are more than just functional; they shape the land and contribute to the aesthetic of a site. However, it’s important to note that any retaining wall over four feet requires careful engineering to ensure stability and safety.

The work of these professionals not only supports the physical integrity of our buildings but also upholds our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable design. Their contributions lay the groundwork for the successful realization of architectural visions, making them deserving of our utmost respect and gratitude.

Some of the companies that we regularly work with include Axe Engineering, Freeland and Associates, Geotest, and Aquaterra Systems.

A Conversation with Josh from True Bearing Built

A Conversation with Josh from True Bearing Built

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Josh, a seasoned professional with 23 years of experience in the construction industry in Washington State. Josh is the driving force behind True Bearing Built, a company that has made its mark as a mid to high-end...

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Hits from our Self-Guided Tour of Seattle

Hits from our Self-Guided Tour of Seattle

A couple of weeks ago we all took a day out of the office for a self guided architectural fieldtrip of Seattle. We had just submitted a number of projects at the end of the code cycle and we needed to recharge. We left Bellingham in the morning and made great effort...

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Elevator Lifts as Design Elements

Elevator Lifts as Design Elements

As an architect, there is a core need to provide inclusive design. While any elevator is a costly proposition, how it is integrated into a space can greatly impact the character of a room. This article from Architecture Now highlights a crucial shift in perspective...

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Considering: The Rise of 3D-Printed Prefabricated Homes

Considering: The Rise of 3D-Printed Prefabricated Homes

The construction industry is on the cusp of a revolution with the rise of 3D-printed prefabricated homes. As highlighted in a recent article on ArchDaily[1], this innovative approach to building promises to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by the...

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Revisiting Josiah’s Internship, 2023

Revisiting Josiah’s Internship, 2023

This June, we had the pleasure of hosting Josiah Redburg, a talented and enthusiastic intern who joined our team at Haven Design Workshop. Josiah impressed us with his skills, creativity, and personality. In this blog post, we want to share some of the highlights of...

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Middle Housing Amenities

Middle Housing Amenities

Middle housing provides a means to fill the gap between single family/detached/suburban-style housing and high-density multifamily building types. It is seen as crucial component in addressing our housing needs while we experience rapid population growth and...

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How we use Rendering Software for Visualization

How we use Rendering Software for Visualization

Architectural Visualization Simplified: A Client's Guide As a client navigating the world of architecture, understanding visualization techniques is essential. These visual tools help you envision your dream spaces before they become reality. Let's explore two main...

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The New Life of Industrial Architecture

The New Life of Industrial Architecture

In the same way that societies transform, times change, and cities evolve, industrial architecture is modernized. The article titled The New Life of Industrial Architecture in Cities: 20 Renovations and Conversions of Old Factories and Warehouses | ArchDaily...

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How to Choose a Contractor: First Questions

How to Choose a Contractor: First Questions

When it comes to creating quality architecture, finding the right contractor is crucial. The builder you choose can significantly impact the execution of your design vision. In this post, we'll highlight key criteria for making an informed decision. Experience in...

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Mass Timber Products Are Key to Green Design

Mass Timber Products Are Key to Green Design

Interest in mass timber is surging, and cross-laminated timber (CLT) is at the forefront of this movement. CLT, a type of engineered wood product, is strong enough to compete with concrete and steel. It's arguably the first major structural innovation since the...

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