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
Other Tangents
Everything Is Awesome with Houzz
The secret's out! We can finally share the news: Houzz contacted us a month ago about doing a video project showcasing Jeff’s house and the Lego Lounge for their new HouzzTV platform. Of course, we said, "Yes, please!" Check out the shorter video here, and a bonus longer one over on Houzz.
Learn more.
Ask a Designer
Architecture and Interior Design
What the heck is the difference between architecture and interior design? It's a common question, and not a stupid one at all! There is a lot of overlap between the two, and it can be confusing. We'll walk through the differences in services and help you decide how to craft the team for your project.
Learn more.
Other Tangents
Earth Day Sustainability Slam
The AIA Committee on the Environment is hosting a Sustainability Slam and you’re invited! Board & Vellum is once again teaming up with Model Remodel to present Ada’s Technical Books & Cafe, and we'd love to see you there!
Learn more.
Ask a Designer, Custom Residential
Does It Make Sense To Add a Second Story to My House?
In this crazy Seattle real estate market, we get a lot of questions about whether or not it makes sense to add a second story to a house. It's not a simple “yes or no” answer, but we’ve found that considering these several factors can help you decide if adding up is right for you.
Learn more.
News
Press: Design Bureau
The long-anticipated print edition of Design Bureau’s Spring 2015 Architecture Issue has finally arrived, and nestled among all the other great things, Board & Vellum's "Seattle Box" project is featured!
Learn more.
Commercial
Experiencing Acoustics
Often overlooked, acoustics play an incredible role in your experience of a space, and the memories you’ll have of it. So, let's geek out and discuss what exactly you need to consider when designing for acoustics, how it all works, and why it matters.
Learn more.
Custom Residential, Interior Design
Stay Focused
In the digital design age, we are so inundated with beautiful images and “professional” opinions that it can be tremendously difficult to make confident decisions when you are designing your own home or remodel. So how do you approach your design project? Stay focused on what really matters to you and your family, just you.
Learn more.
Arts & Culture
In LEGO, We Connect – A Gallery Review
It's no secret that we are big LEGO lovers at Board & Vellum, so we were intrigued to hear of a new photography exhibit at the Bryan Ohno Gallery focusing on LEGO photography: “In LEGO, We Connect.” Of course, we went to check it out, and, (also, of course), we wrote this little review of it.
Learn more.
Custom Residential
An Island Nest
Explore the avian inspiration behind the design for this contemporary home on Mercer Island. With an exterior envelope designed based on “Passivehaus” principles, radiant floors, and a smart natural ventilation approach, this house creates a comfortable, allergy-free environment. Construction is scheduled to begin in April of 2015, so check back for photos of the finished house!
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.