Board & Vellum has moved to Seattle’s iconic Smith Tower in Pioneer Square. Learn more.
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Custom Residential

An Architect’s Own Remodel and Lessons Learned

Architects are our own worst clients. Here is Jeff's story of remodeling his own house and the lessons learned.

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Custom Residential, Interior Design

Built-In Dog Furniture and Casework

Dogs not only provide lots of love, they provide opportunities for creating amazing built-in cabinets or spaces that are suited just for them. Here are some fun examples of built-in cabinets and spaces meant just for them. And, bonus: check out the list of other things to consider when designing with a dog in mind.

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Commercial

Hidden Value of Commercial Square Footage in Leases

Here’s how to make sure you are getting the most value out of your commercial or retail leases – both from the perspective of the landlord and the tenant. Knowing exactly how much square footage you have (and are paying for) is the key to maximizing your rent and your overhead costs.

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Other Tangents

Seattle Home Show and Stone Hot Tubs

Jeff pops down to the Seattle Home Show to take a look at a slew of products all at once, and, of course, crack a few jokes about some of the odder offerings.

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Ask a Designer, Interior Design

Plywood As an Interior Finish Material

It's always a big debate among designers whether or not plywood looks great as an interior finish material. So what's that debate all about? And, what questions should you ask yourself (and your designer should ask) when you're considering it for your project?

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Ask a Designer

Why 45-Degree-Angled Walls in Floor Plans Are Bad

Angles in a floor plan are not inherently bad, however, they should be there for a reason, to solve a problem creatively. They should be beautiful, functional, and helpful. I can respect a good angle in the right situation. Here's why the random angle walls you see everywhere in the suburbs are just plain scary.

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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 simply makes our day. You may also enjoy a few of the related posts below.

Shelby House – Board & Vellum

Budgeting for a Remodel or Building New? Part 2

Building new gives you complete control over every detail, but it comes with its own financial realities. In part two of this series, we walk through land costs, permits, hidden expenses, a decision making framework, and real client examples to help you choose the right path for your family.

Comprehensive Design Services for Legacy Properties – Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture by Board & Vellum

Budgeting for a Remodel or Building New? Part 1

Should you remodel your current home or start fresh? In part one of this two part series, we break down what renovating really costs: design fees, permits, the disruption of living through construction, and the hidden expenses most homeowners never see coming, plus when remodeling truly makes financial sense.

Sport Court – Landscape Architecture - Board & Vellum

Backyard Sport Courts

A backyard sport court gives your family a reason to head outside on an ordinary weeknight. Here is what to consider before you build one in the Pacific Northwest, from stormwater requirements and fencing rules to surfacing, lighting for dark winter afternoons, and the budget factors that shape the final number.

Developing a new custom residential property on undeveloped land with Board & Vellum.

What to Look For When Buying Land to Build a Vacation Home

Buying land for a vacation or second home comes with hidden risks: buildability limits, utility costs, environmental constraints, and remote-build logistics. Before you fall in love with a view, learn what to look for so you can make a confident, informed purchase. Here’s what our architects consider before, and after, you buy.

Designing Backyard Spas & Wellness Retreats – Landscape Architecture – Board & Vellum

Designing Your Backyard Wellness Retreat

A hot tub is a feature. A wellness retreat is an experience and the difference is design. From cedar saunas and cold plunge pools to outdoor yoga platforms and curated water features, we’ll walk you through how we design a backyard sanctuary that restores, performs, and reflects exactly how you live.

Designing & Permitting Backyard Buildings

What does it take to get your backyard building built? Whether its an accessory structure, a detached accessory dwelling unit, or a garage, a little gumption goes a long way. With careful planning and a little patience, you can have the backyard building of your dreams.

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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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.