Jeff Pelletier
Custom Residential, Landscape Architecture
Footloose and Fency Free
Fences and retaining walls are more than just simple demising lines: they're our walls in our outdoor living rooms. And sadly, so many of the fences that get put up end up being bland, boring, and basic boards. I'm sure that the people who live in these homes AREN'T boring, of course, so what options do they have instead? Plenty. Take a look at a few personalized options.
Learn more.Other Tangents
The Beautiful Critic
A friend of a friend recently sent me a link to a project (which will go nameless) with a comment about how interesting it was and all of the new technologies used in construction. It was also really ugly. "Beautiful" doesn't have to be a taboo word in architecture, let's not forget that.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Interior Design
Stop Super-Sizing Your Furniture Please
Americans are big people, we all know that. But as big as we are, our furniture is even bigger. I hesitate to call it a national epidemic but it is pretty close. Stop abusing your furniture and put it on a diet! Your home will be more comfortable for it!
Learn more.
Custom Residential, Interior Design
IKEA Kitchen Cabinets
While we love a good custom cabinet, sometimes, IKEA cabinets are the perfect choice for your budget. Here are a couple of tips for getting the most out of this product.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Interior Design
Painted Trim
When should you paint the trim in your house, and when should you leave it as natural wood? And, if you paint it, what color should it be. Here are some simple guidelines to help you out.
Learn more.Custom Residential
Small Spaces Are Opportunities
Don't shy away from small spaces: often these can become some of the greatest opportunities in your home. You have to put some effort into making a small space work, but you end up with a much more designed space that adds a ton of value.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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?
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