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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
Plywood As an Interior Finish Material
It's always a big debate among designers whether or not plywood looks great as an interior finish material. So what's that debate all about? And, what questions should you ask yourself (and your designer should ask) when you're considering it for your project?
Learn more.Ask a Designer
Why 45-Degree-Angled Walls in Floor Plans Are Bad
Angles in a floor plan are not inherently bad, however, they should be there for a reason, to solve a problem creatively. They should be beautiful, functional, and helpful. I can respect a good angle in the right situation. Here's why the random angle walls you see everywhere in the suburbs are just plain scary.
Learn more.Ask a Designer
Appropriate Siding Material for Urban Environments
Just as you need to wear different clothing for different weather or climates, buildings need different exterior siding to suit their environment. (And we don't mean in terms of the building envelope in this case.) We mean, if you're in a city, plan for graffiti.
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Historic & Traditional
Adaptive Reuse of Churches
Churches are some of the world's most iconic and everlasting forms of architecture. They're also in declining use and in need of a new use in life. Here are some fun examples of churches being adapted to a new use in life.
Learn more.News
Architecture Advice to Non-Architects
Jeff reflects on why he loves writing for non-architects, looks back to a few posts he particularly enjoyed writing over the past year, and looks excitedly to this new year and all that's happening ahead.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential
How Much Time to Plan for a Remodel or House Project
When you just are dying to update one particular thing in your house, it's a good idea to just slow down for a sec, and make sure you have a master plan. You'll be kicking yourself if you end up redoing something you've already put money into. Here are some planning tips.
Learn more.Custom Residential
Christmas Lights for Architects
Christmas lights are far too much work to take seriously. Here are some thoughts on how to blow apart convention and have a great time with crazy Christmas lights on your house or apartment building.
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Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Interior Design
What Kind of Cabinets Should I Select?
Custom cabinets are pretty freaking amazing. There's a lot to choose from (style, hardware, color, finish...), but one of the most basic decisions is what kind of style cabinet door construction you want, or is right for your space. Here are summaries of the three kinds of styles with some easy-to-follow diagrams.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Interior Design
How to Live with Carrara Marble
Carrara marble is a classic material that holds timeless appeal. Unfortunately, it has some challenges that require careful consideration. Read on for some thoughts on this beautiful stone.
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!
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Honored as a finalist for residential landscape design.
Our team includes LEED-accredited professionals.
Our team includes certified Passive House consultants.
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