Topics
The Business of Design
Over the years, we’ve learned a lot about running a design firm. We’re not afraid to make waves by expanding what it means to be a great place to work, and that means lifting the curtain on our methods, philosophy, and plans for the future.
Our the business of design posts.
The Business of Design
Community Engagement at Board & Vellum
Giving back to the community has been part of Board & Vellum’s DNA from the beginning. Our commitment to community building led to one of our major 2022 initiatives: developing our Community Engagement Manifesto to help organize our company’s and employees’ charitable efforts.
Read more.
The Business of Design
Why I’m a Generalist Architect
Many architects and designers choose to specialize in a specific sector or focus on a single project type. That’s awesome and necessary, but it’s not Jeff. His journey as a generalist architect is why providing out-of-the-box services is part of Board & Vellum’s DNA, and it’s what keeps him dedicated to design of all kinds.
Read more.
The Business of Design
How a Philosophy of High Performance is Changing the Way We Work
Designing a home or building is one thing. Designing the work experience of your employees is quite another. But the design mentality we bring to our projects also allows us to adapt and innovate how we operate as a team. Though our firm has evolved over the years, our values have not, guiding us to adopt the philosophy of a high-performance team.
Read more.
The Business of Design
Advice for Starting a Design Firm
Starting a design firm isn’t easy. It takes a lot of luck, it can exciting, but also stressful. You’ll need to take some calculated risks. It worked out at B&V, and we’ve grown to about 40 people in 8 years. Here are some tips learned along the journey of starting a design firm.
Read more.
Ask a Designer, The Business of Design
Do Architects Advocate for the Client or for the Architect?
Does an architect or designer advocate for your interests or for theirs? We believe your design team should advocate for you. That doesn't mean just being a "yes man" — it means working with you to design the best path forward. Here are a few areas we can especially help by being your advocate.
Read more.
The Business of Design
How To Design For Others
Unless you are an architect guided only by your own ego, you need to learn how to design for others. Your clients will be unique individuals who may have needs and preferences that are completely foreign to you. Here are some tips to hone your skills at understanding the needs of people unlike you.
Read more.Our the business of design recognition stories.
Just Label
In 2023, Board & Vellum achieved a Just label from the International Living Future Institute, joining a select few architecture and design firms in the state to have achieved a the social justice label.
PSBJ’s Largest LGBTQ-Owned Businesses of 2023
PSBJ lists Board & Vellum 10th among the top 25 largest-revenue businesses with LGBTQ-majority ownership. We’re honored to be acknowledged for our work advancing equity in our region.
PSBJ’s Largest LGTBQ-Owned Companies of 2022
Ranked 9th, Board & Vellum makes PSBJ’s list of the 25 largest-revenue majority LGBTQ-owned companies of 2022.
PSBJ’s Top LGTBQ-Owned Businesses of 2021
Board & Vellum ranks 7th among the region’s top 25 largest-revenue companies with LGBTQ-majority ownership. The 2021 list reflects the resilience of LGBTQ+ businesses during the pandemic.
Would you like to learn more?
We’re thrilled that you’re interested!
Our Story
Board & Vellum is vibrant design firm built on the idea that an informed and engaged team leads to better design and happy clients. We wouldn’t be where we are today without passion and hard work, and those same two things keep us going strong today.
Our Process
Bringing your project from “idea” to fruition is a little different at Board & Vellum. We give personal care to each of our projects, and you’ll be in the loop every step the way. The bonus: we are an integrated firm, so each project has access to plenty of great knowledge — and that leads to better design.
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.