
Jeff Pelletier
Custom Residential
Is Exterior Shading Right for My Home?
Though still more common in Europe, we are finally starting to catch up across the pond, as it is becoming more common to add exterior shading to homes. The science is sound, and there are plenty of clear benefits. So how do you decide what type of exterior shading system would be great for your home?
Learn more.Commercial
Are Loud Restaurants Really Worth It?
There are certainly reasons why some chefs and restaurant owners prefer a loud space. And, some restaurant patrons enjoy it, too, at least for a little while. Here are a few reasons why loud restaurants exist and a few ways we could make them a little quieter, while still keeping a business profitable.
Learn more.Custom Residential
Designing for Fire
Gathering around a fire is an ancient human activity that maintains its magnetic attraction, even now. As a feature that so viscerally attracts us and so often is the backdrop of our favorite memories, why not design more than one location in your home or yard where you can encourage the comfort of a fire.
Learn more.Commercial, Interior Design
Private Offices vs. “Open Office” Concepts for Workspaces
Over the years, the popular (and researched) opinions about what makes for an ideal workspace have shifted from recommending private offices, to semi-private, to the so-called “open office” concepts, and back. But, different types of workspaces are ideal for different types of companies, based on budget, type of work, company culture, and more.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential
How To Pay For, Or Finance, a New Custom Home
Whether modern or traditional, a custom home can be designed to meet your family’s needs. You’ve just got to find a way to pay for it! Here is a look at a few of the options available for paying for — or financing — the construction of a new custom home.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential
Should I Dig Out My Basement?
Digging out your basement seems like an attractive solution to gaining more useable space in your home, but it’s complicated to do and can be quite expensive. These are a series of questions you should consider when weighing whether or not to excavate the basement in your home.
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.
Choosing the Right Pool for Your Home
Pools are becoming a more and more popular addition to single-family homes, even in the notoriously chilly Pacific Northwest. They’re a great way to enliven your outdoor spaces, but the decisions made when choosing the right pool for your home can be overwhelming. Here is our guide to helping homeowners through the process.

Layering of Space
The backyard oasis is comprised of layered spaces and programs — framed by the new garage and studio, and the main house. Backyard Artist Studio | Photo by Meghan Montgomery
Using Drones for Site Planning
You’ve probably heard of drone technology — but did you know it can be an effective tool for design projects? We’re breaking down all the ways drone technology can improve your project, create efficiencies, and help you collaborate with your design team.
Fireplace Options For Your Home
If you’re considering adding a fireplace to your home or restoring an existing fireplace, the options may seem overwhelming. There are many things to consider, like aesthetic goals, ambiance, and sustainability. Luckily, we've assembled this essential guide on fireplaces to help you decide what’s right for you.
The Value of Hiring a Landscape Architect
Are you unsure if your project requires a landscape architect? Spoiler: it likely does. Landscape architects can help you gain a deeper understanding of your site, its composition, limitations, and areas of opportunity. If your project touches the soil, it’s ideal to include a landscape architect early in the design process.
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Achieved a Just label from the International Living Future Institute in 2023.

Honored as a finalist for residential landscape design.

Our team includes LEED-accredited professionals.

Our team includes certified Passive House consultants.

A Certified LGBT Business Enterprise Since 2016.

Honoring companies that lead in promoting equality.