We’re designing Seattle’s first office building to housing conversion since the pandemic. Read more…

Ben Lynn

Ask an Architect, Custom Residential

Dreaming Big for Your New Dream House

When you imagine your “Dream Home,” what is it like? Some of us start dreaming from childhood, others as adults, and it’s easy to dream big, and then fear that it can only exist as a dream. But, don’t worry, with these tips we can help you convert your dream into an attainable reality.

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Arts & Culture

Edifice of Sound

Inspired by a Robert's recent post about what architecture sounds like. Ben explores how sound translates to space.

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Events, Firm Culture

Board & Velluween

Did you really think we wouldn't go all out for Halloween? Of course, we go all out, typical B&V Style! Check out this picture-laden post full of all the crazy we go into.

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Arts & Culture, Historic & Traditional

Tournament of Ornament

Ben shares the details about his recent trip to San Francisco, discussing the role of buildings in terms of whether they are monuments or part of the urban fabric.

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Arts & Culture

A Hankering for Hexagons

Hexagons are pretty awesome, you've gotta admit. Bees have certainly made fantastic use of them. But what about us humans? Here, Ben explores the pros and cons of using hexagons in architectural design.

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News

We Are Small Business Proud

We are excited to announce that Board & Vellum is featured on a new web film, Small Business Proud, about the journey of small business owners from Washington to Georgia. Plus, if you get the chance, pop by and hear Jeff speak on a panel with fellow small business entrepreneurs, Matt Dillan and Liz Dunn.

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Would you like to read more from the team?

If you enjoy reading our blog as much as we enjoy writing it, that just makes our day! You might also enjoy a few of the related posts below. And, if there is a topic that you wish we would cover, let us know!

How to Determine Your Project’s Program

When folks are setting out on a design journey, many, but not all of them, come to us knowing exactly what they want to do with their project. If you’re someone who isn't quite sure, how do you go about figuring out your dream project’s program? And what can we do as designers to help?

How To Update a Short-Term Rental Property

As schedules remain flexible and more folks are able to work from anywhere, there has been a huge surge in the short-term rental market. The pandemic has fueled a strong desire for individuals and families to get away from their everyday life and into something new, so let's talk through what it takes to get a property ready for renters.

How An Architect Can Help Before You Buy A House

Ever heard of someone buying a house only to learn their big remodel dreams aren’t possible? The competitive real estate market can add pressure to buying a home before you have the full picture. That’s where we come in! An architect can help you understand the potential of a house before you even make an offer.

What Really Adds Cost To Your Home Remodel?

Have you ever heard that moving a toilet is a budget-busting home improvement? Would it surprise you to learn that we think this is debatable? There’s no doubt that home remodels cost money, but the big-ticket changes might not be what you expect. So what’s really going to impact your project budget?

Dos and Don’ts of the Pricing Process

We see all the time how a good and thorough Schematic Pricing set helps us avoid the pitfalls of waiting too long to get an official pricing estimate. Still, we understand how the process can be overwhelming and confusing for clients. We’ve got your back with a list of our dos and don’ts for sailing through pricing like a pro.

Why and How We Get Pricing Early

If you’ve started a design project in the last few years, you’ve likely experienced an unfortunate shock when the pricing estimate rolls in. We hate that feeling, just as much as you. Instead of leaving it to chance, we take a different approach to helping our clients navigate the confusing and variable world of construction costs.

Considering a project? Or, just curious about something?

Send us your questions about design, architecture, interiors, landscape, LEGO rooms… Anything, really. We’re always eager to meet new people, and we’d love to get to know you, your project, and your goals.

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Board & Vellum receives Just label from the International Living Future Institute, a voluntary reporting tool for social justice and equity indicators in the workplace.

Achieved a Just label from the International Living Future Institute in 2023.

Board & Vellum is honored to be a Gray Awards Finalist for landscape design, earning the recognition for the rooftop garden at the Lucille on Roosevelt.

Honored as a finalist for residential landscape design.

LEED Certified in White

Our team includes LEED-accredited professionals.

Certified Passive House Consultant in White

Our team includes certified Passive House consultants.

NGLCC Certified as LGBT Business Enterprise – Board & Vellum Recognition

A Certified LGBT Business Enterprise Since 2016.

PSBJ’s Top 25 LGBTQ-Owned Businesses 2016 in White

Honoring companies that lead in promoting equality.