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.
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Ask a Designer, Interior Design
What Type of Dining Room Table Do You Need?
When you’re in the market for a dining room table, where do you start? Would a round one work? Or a built-in banquette? Maybe a kitchen island? Or, an extendable leaf? Use these tips to figure out what type of dining room table is right for how you live in your home.
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News
B&V Radio: Podcasting from Board & Vellum
Heads up, everyone, Board & Vellum now has a podcast: Design Goggles, on B&V Radio! Tune in on iTunes or SoundCloud, and listen as hosts Charles and Rachel discuss with guests what it’s like living in Seattle during the city’s exciting, rapid growth, all through the lens of design.
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Architecture, Ask a Designer
Why Do You Still Need an Architect After You Have Your Building Permit?
Clients often ask us why they still need an architect once they have a contractor and a building permit. In fact, our continued involvement in your project during construction is so critical that we waive our liability if we aren't a part of it. So, why is that? Let's get into the details! (Pun intended.)
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Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Landscape Architecture
How to Create an Outdoor Space you Love
Sometimes, it takes the quiet moments on a peaceful vacation to remind you of some of the great things back at home. In this case, a trip to Costa Rica reminds Jeff about all the things that come together to create an outdoor room that you love, even in our rainy Seattle weather.
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Ask a Designer, Interior Design
What Height of Stool Do You Need?
What’s the difference between table height, counter height, and bar height stools? What does that mean in inches? You’ll be forever kicking yourself if you buy the wrong height stools, so make sure you follow these rules to get it right so you can still comfortably.
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Ask a Designer, Landscape Architecture
Questions to Ask a Landscape Architect or Site Design Team in an Interview
When you are looking into hiring a landscape architect or a site design team, even if you’ve been through the process before, make sure you ask these important ten questions. From design process, to fee structure, to timeline, and more, we lay it out for you so you can jump into your project well-informed.
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The Business of Design
Is Moonlighting Worth It? Probably Not, But We All Try.
We've all been there – when moonlighting on an architecture project seems like a good idea. But most of us who've tried it over the years know: it's just not worth it to wear yourself out working at night on the type of project that just goes more smoothly during business hours.
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News
We’re One of Washington’s Top Places to Work! Join Us?
We are so excited to be honored by Seattle Business magazine as one of Washington's top ten small businesses to work for, for the second year in a row. We all work hard to create and nurture the B&V culture. If that sounds good to you, too, check out our careers page: we're hiring!
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Commercial
Why the Ceiling of Retail Spaces Is Important
When you’re planning the displays and layout of your retail space, it’s easy to neglect the ceiling. But, in a market dominated by online shopping, the experience of a physical shop is crucial. If a visitor is interrupted by noticing a neglected area, that can be enough to transport them out of the purchasing mindset.
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.