Blog
Learn more about architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture from the B&V Team.
Our blog is a friendly resource for anyone wondering how to approach their project, seeking answers for their design questions, or simply eager for a peek inside our world.
Services
Disciplines
Additional Options
Architecture, Commercial
Our Approach to Commercial Architecture Design
A new commercial building sits on a site, in a neighborhood, and in an ecosystem it will likely outlast. Here is how our commercial architecture design process starts with curiosity about a place, stays centered on the people who will use the building, and plans for the decades after opening.
Learn more.
Architecture, Custom Residential
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.
Learn more.
Architecture, Custom Residential
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.
Learn more.
Custom Residential, Landscape Architecture
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.
Learn more.
Architecture, Custom Residential
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.
Learn more.
Custom Residential, Landscape Architecture
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.
Learn more.
Architecture, Custom Residential
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.
Learn more.
Architecture, Custom Residential, Landscape Architecture, Multifamily Residential
Navigating the World of Backyard Buildings
When it comes to backyard buildings, there are many things to consider. The first is: what exactly is a backyard building? From accessory structures to detached accessory dwelling units to garages, we’re breaking down the three main types of backyard buildings and how they function on your property.
Learn more.
Architecture, Commercial, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture
Pre-Leasing Considerations for Your Commercial Space
Finding the right commercial space for your business can feel overwhelming. Board & Vellum’s pre-leasing consulting helps businesses uncover hidden risks, evaluate tenant improvement budgets, and explore design opportunities before signing a lease — turning uncertainty into clarity and setting the stage for long-term success.
Learn more.Or, if chronology isn’t your thing…
Here are a couple of posts to get you started. Of course, it’s hard to choose, so feel free to poke around; we hope to have a little something for everyone. And, if you have a burning question you’d like us to cover in a future post, please let us know!
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.
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.