OUR BLOG
The Complete Guide to Contractor Tiers
Hiring the wrong contractor is expensive. Not just financially, but emotionally, logistically, and in lost time you will never get back. One of the most common problems we see at Waldron Designs is not bad contractors, but mismatched contractors.
Atmosphere and Quality Perception: Why Design Investments Matter for Brand Positioning
The atmosphere of a space (its light, materials, and flow) does more than please the eye. It shapes how people feel, what they remember, and how they talk about your brand. Quality design is more than a visual statement; it’s a strategic investment in reputation, trust, and long-term growth. When every element is thoughtfully chosen, a space becomes more than a backdrop; it becomes an experience that sets your brand apart.
Solstice Reflection, Designing for the Darkest Day of the Year
The winter solstice is the shortest day and the longest night of the year. It is also when residential design is tested the hardest. When daylight fades early, and interiors carry more of the emotional load, a home either supports comfort or quietly works against it.
Design ROI for Commercial Spaces: How Atmosphere Drives Revenue, Retention & Wellness
In commercial environments, whether retail, office, or service-based, thoughtful design directly impacts your bottom line. Better wayfinding reduces customer friction. Strategic color choices influence purchasing behavior and employee mood. Daylighting boosts productivity and cuts energy costs. This isn't theory; it's measurable ROI.
We've spent over a decade perfecting design principles in residential spaces. What many don't know is that we also bring significant experience to commercial environments: retail, office, and service spaces. Today, we're sharing the design principles that drive ROI in commercial settings, whether you're designing a new space or reimagining an existing one.
LEED AP/LFA Perspective: Energy Efficiency for Winter Comfort
The Pacific Northwest winter doesn't have extreme temperatures—it has persistence. Gray skies, dampness, and that particular kind of chill that seems to settle into spaces without proper design. That's where energy efficiency becomes more than a sustainability trend; it becomes the foundation for genuine comfort.
Home Fair Prep: Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask
Whether you're considering a major renovation, planning an addition, or dreaming of a complete home transformation, home fairs offer an invaluable opportunity to connect with professionals who can bring your vision to life. But to make the most of your time, preparation is key.
As sustainable design experts who've helped Pacific Northwest homeowners reimagine their spaces for nearly two decades, we know the questions that lead to successful projects—and the ones that can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
10 Sustainable Design Trends for Your Next Home Renovation
In today's world, sustainability isn't just a trend—it's a way of life! As homeowners embark on renovations, integrating sustainable design practices can not only elevate the aesthetic of your space but also contribute positively to the environment. Whether you're looking to revamp your living room or upgrade your kitchen, these sustainable design trends will guide your journey to a greener home.
The Quiet Revolution: Small Changes, Big Impact
Most revolutions don’t begin with a marching band. They start in soft, quiet corners—at the kitchen table, by a sunny windowsill, or under the gentle hum of a reading lamp. They take root in the small choices we cradle every day, building little by little until a new way of living takes shape.
At Waldron Designs, we believe this kind of revolution is happening all around us. It’s stitched into the Pacific Northwest’s patchwork of green forests, rain-washed porches, and neighborly coffee chats. It’s the simple, intentional shifts we make in our homes that, together, create a ripple of positive change.
Exploring Sustainable Design Approaches: From Passive to Rammed Earth
In the journey toward eco-friendly living, sustainable design offers a rich palette of building methods that honor nature while nurturing our well-being. Let’s take a lively tour through some inspiring approaches, from the subtle art of passive design to the earthy strength of rammed earth homes — all creating spaces that are not only beautiful but deeply connected to their surroundings.
Designing for the Future: Homes That Heal
Imagine a home that doesn’t just stand on the earth but breathes with it—where walls whisper stories of ancient forests, and every window frames a living tapestry of native plants and wildlife. These are homes that heal—not only protecting us from the elements but nurturing our connection to the land and inviting the gentle rhythms of nature inside.
What It Means to Be a Sustainable Design Firm
Sustainable design is a thoughtful, intentional approach to architecture and interiors that prioritizes both environmental responsibility and human well-being. At its core, sustainable design embraces principles such as choosing eco-friendly materials, maximizing energy efficiency, and making decisions that honor the health of both people and the planet.
The Art of Gathering: Designing Spaces for Connection
The heart of the Pacific Northwest home often pulses quietly—gentle rain against big windows, laughter echoing off cedar walls, and always, spaces shaped for stories. At Waldron Designs, we believe the bones of a welcoming room are built-in, literally.