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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.

Haven Plays Pickleball

Haven Plays Pickleball

Hey All! Consider this an informal invitation to come play pickleball with your favorite Bellingham architects this summer.  Last week the office took the court for some competitive (and at times sloppy) pickleball. A few people came prepared, playing warm up matches...

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An ADU Primer

An ADU Primer

Accessory Dwelling units, or ADU’s, are a growing building type in America. Wander through the neighborhoods of most West Coast cities and you will begin to spot them. This primer will outline some of the reasons that ADU’s are beneficial for homeowners, communities,...

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Bringing the outdoors in

Bringing the outdoors in

Bringing the outdoors in Our client wanted a modern home in a forested property that would allow an open view of the outdoors with a large patio for entertaining.

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Birch Bay Modern

Birch Bay Modern

Birch Bay Modern Having waterfront property can be an ideal place to live. It can also provide some challenges in the building process, which was the case for this home. With required setbacks from the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM), steep slope, property lines, and...

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6 Steps to Consider for Project Planning

6 Steps to Consider for Project Planning

Step One: Budget No matter the size of the project, an appropriate budget should be the first thing you establish, for all projects you can do this yourself. During this preliminary stage, through careful research you can establish an initial project budget, then once...

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Glacier Retreat

Glacier Retreat

A place to work and play We had our annual retreat at a “cottage” in Glacier, Washington. As you can see, the word cottage doesn’t seem appropriate. The retreat wasn’t all fun and games though… although we did have a lot of good food and fun… we discussed goals,...

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Project Planning Packet

Project Planning Packet

The Project Planning Packet is an interactive tool that will help you define your needs and prepare both yourselves and your architect for our first exploratory meeting.   Download your Project Planning Packet    

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7 Reasons for using an architect

7 Reasons for using an architect

1 – Architects can stretch your budget Your project starts out with two competing factors: Wish List and Budget. Sometimes not everything on your Wish List can happen within your budget. But an architect will help you get as much value as possible. And, they can...

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Our new front desk

Our new front desk

  I don’t even know where this desk concept started. The idea existed before I started here more then a year ago. Like many designs the execution resembled a game of telephone where the result only loosely resembled the original idea. I think Sean started the...

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A Very Dinosaur Staff Retreat

A Very Dinosaur Staff Retreat

Oh, I can't believe it's been a whole year and I haven't blogged since the last staff retreat! My first year I wrote often and then this year came and I was…I guess good at my job doing billable work that paid us money?? Lots of apologies about that. Good news is we...

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