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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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Custom Residential
Going Down Under: Basement Remodels Done Right
Basement remodels are one of the easiest ways to get extra square footage in your house. That's no revelation and we've all seen numerous basement remodels, but unfortunately what we've probably also seen are a lot of really bad basement remodels. Here's how to plan for a great one that's worth the investment.
Learn more.Custom Residential, Landscape Architecture
Footloose and Fency Free
Fences and retaining walls are more than just simple demising lines: they're our walls in our outdoor living rooms. And sadly, so many of the fences that get put up end up being bland, boring, and basic boards. I'm sure that the people who live in these homes AREN'T boring, of course, so what options do they have instead? Plenty. Take a look at a few personalized options.
Learn more.Other Tangents
The Beautiful Critic
A friend of a friend recently sent me a link to a project (which will go nameless) with a comment about how interesting it was and all of the new technologies used in construction. It was also really ugly. "Beautiful" doesn't have to be a taboo word in architecture, let's not forget that.
Learn more.
Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Interior Design
Stop Super-Sizing Your Furniture Please
Americans are big people, we all know that. But as big as we are, our furniture is even bigger. I hesitate to call it a national epidemic but it is pretty close. Stop abusing your furniture and put it on a diet! Your home will be more comfortable for it!
Learn more.Custom Residential, Interior Design
IKEA Kitchen Cabinets
While we love a good custom cabinet, sometimes, IKEA cabinets are the perfect choice for your budget. Here are a couple of tips for getting the most out of this product.
Learn more.Ask a Designer, Custom Residential, Interior Design
Painted Trim
When should you paint the trim in your house, and when should you leave it as natural wood? And, if you paint it, what color should it be. Here are some simple guidelines to help you out.
Learn more.Custom Residential
Small Spaces Are Opportunities
Don't shy away from small spaces: often these can become some of the greatest opportunities in your home. You have to put some effort into making a small space work, but you end up with a much more designed space that adds a ton of value.
Learn more.The Business of Design
Life of an Architect
Shout out to another blogging architect: check out "Life of an Architect" for a good read.
Learn more.Other Tangents
Vellum
What is vellum, and why is it in our name? Here is a little backstory for you, if you’ve just been too shy to ask.
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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