
Jeff Pelletier
Ask a Designer
How Do You Deal with Choices During the Design Process?
The design process is fun, but it can also be fairly stressful because there are so many important choices to be made. How do you make the right call? We certainly have a few recommendations (which we’ll get into here), but two huge ones to count on: trust your instincts, and let the professionals help.
Learn more.Other Tangents
Finding That “Eureka!” Moment in the Design Process
Parts of the architectural design process can (and must) be very precise, but there is also a messy, organic part of it. It’s the creative part of the game, and it’s often in that time that we find the “Eureka!” moment in the design process. When you’re working on your design, watch for it!
Learn more.Architecture, Ask a Designer
How To Prepare for Your First Call with an Architect
If you’ve never worked with an architect before, it might be daunting to know what to even ask when you start to research a team that will be the right fit for your project. Here‘s what the process looks like if you reach out to us and we set up a call to chat about your project.
Learn more.The Business of Design
What is the Benefit of Becoming a Licensed Architect?
Becoming a licensed architect is a long and frustrating process (though it is better than it used to be). A lot of people in the architecture field struggle with making the decision to go for it or not. So, is it worth it? Jeff thinks so! Here’s why.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Interior Design
Where Should I Splurge on Design?
Remodeling your home, or building a new one, is an exercise in compromise. There will always be more money you can spend and more things that you want. So, getting the most out of your project involves knowing how to compromise wisely. So, where should you splurge on design?
Learn more.Custom Residential
Is My House Ugly? If You Love It, Maybe Not!
When you design houses for a living, sometimes, you end up designing things you think are ugly, but you do it anyway because your clients think it's perfect. It's your house, not ours, and at Board & Vellum, we are here to design a home you love, even if we’d do it differently on our own.
Learn more.Would you like to read more from the team?
If you enjoy reading our blog as much as we enjoy writing it, that simply makes our day. You may also enjoy a few of the related posts below.
What to Expect in Your Multifamily Feasibility Study
If knowledge is power, a feasibility study is an invaluable investment in your potential multifamily project. A comprehensive feasibility study should give you the important, foundational information you need to make informed decisions about your project early. Thorough and efficient, so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.

Exterior Updates
Strategic updates to the building’s exterior — like a high-contrast paint upgrade — celebrate its commercial origin while bringing it into the 21st century with a new use. Queen Anne Commercial Conversion | Project Rendering by Board & Vellum
Your Guide to Multifamily Feasibility Studies
If you’ve been thinking about developing a multifamily project, whether it’s new construction or a conversion, apartments or townhomes, you’ve probably heard someone mention the need for something called a “feasibility study.” But what exactly is a feasibility study, and why is it such a crucial first step?
The Middle Housing Bill FAQ
Washington State’s HB1110 — also called the Middle Housing Bill — is setting the stage for big changes to code and zoning in Seattle. But what is middle housing? And what is the “missing middle” HB1110 seeks to fill? You have questions and we have answers based on our best, current understanding of this landmark legislation.
What To Consider When Future-Proofing Your Home
How long do you plan to stay in your current home? If you’re considering staying in it through your golden years, you’ll want to start thinking about future-proofing. Confused? Don’t worry! Here, we’ll walk you through the four basic principles to follow when you’re planning to age in place.
How to Design to a Concept Instead of a Theme
Concept vs. Theme. Maybe you’ve never thought about the difference between these approaches to design. Maybe you didn’t even realize they were related to design! The difference is subtle, but being able to tell them apart could be what keeps you from taking your design vision to an unpleasant extreme.
Considering a project, or curious about something?
Say hello, and send us your questions via the form below. We’re always pleased to make new connections, and eager to get to know you, your project, and your goals.

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Our team includes certified Passive House consultants.

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