OUR BLOG
Design Dilemma: Blend In or Stand Out? Finding Harmony in Home Additions
When it comes to home additions, one of the most debated topics is whether to respect the existing architecture or introduce a new and distinct design. Striking a balance between honoring the original character of a home and embracing modern design can be a challenging task for homeowners and architects alike. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits and considerations of both approaches, ultimately helping you make an informed decision.
Is Adding On to Your Home Worth It?
As homeowners, we often find ourselves dreaming of expanding our living space to accommodate our changing needs. Whether it's due to a growing family, the desire for a home office, or simply the need for a little extra breathing room, the thought of adding on to our homes can be both exciting and daunting. But is it worth it? In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of adding on to your home, helping you make an informed decision.
Design Firm: Jack of All Trades, Master of None
When it comes to designing beautiful and functional spaces, interior designers and architects are often praised for their creativity, attention to detail, and ability to bring a vision to life. This profession possess a versatile skill set, encompassing everything from conceptualizing layouts to selecting materials and coordinating construction. We are true jacks of all trades in the world of design. However, it is important to understand that we are masters of none, and that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Hiring an Architect for Site Selection
Are you planning to embark on a new construction project? Whether it's a commercial building, a residential property, or a community center, one crucial decision you'll face is finding the perfect site for your project. Selecting the right location lays the foundation for a successful endeavor. And that's where hiring an architect for site selection becomes paramount.
Understanding the Permitting Process
When it comes to undertaking a new construction project, whether it's a residential home or a commercial building, one crucial step that often gets overlooked or underestimated is the permitting process. Building permits are the official documents required by local or state authorities that grant permission for construction or renovation work to begin. While it may seem like a hassle or unnecessary red tape, proper permitting is essential for a variety of reasons. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of the permitting process and provide some valuable insights to streamline your new construction project.
Tiny Homes and Building Codes: Navigating the Legal Landscape
Today, we're delving into a topic that's got our sustainable and accessible design hearts beating – tiny homes. You know, those adorable pint-sized dwellings that have captured our imagination. But before we dive in, let's remember that at Waldron Designs, we're all about responsible, eco-conscious design.
New Construction: Design Expectations
Designing a new home is an exciting venture that allows you to bring your dreams to life. Whether you're embarking on this journey for the first time or have some experience, it's essential to set clear expectations as a client. This not only ensures that your vision is accurately translated but also establishes effective communication with your design team. In this blog post, we will explore some key factors to consider when setting expectations as a client for designing a new home.
Starting from Scratch
After living in home after home that is just not quite perfect, the itch to build often has its merit. But, how does one begin this arduous process (and I won't lie... it is arduous)? Let's take a look at the steps and requirements needed to build new!
What to know about VOC's
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a major concern in our homes. They are released as gases from various household items like paint, cleaning products, furniture, and air fresheners. These chemicals contribute to indoor air pollution and can harm our health, causing respiratory issues, headaches, and even cancer with long-term exposure.
Do I Need a Range Hood?
We visit several homes without any range hoods. Nothing, Nada. Moreover, the nearest smoke detector to the kitchen is the first to be removed. We don’t want the detector blaring when we burn a piece of toast after all, right? If our cooking produces enough smoke to set off the smoke detector, imagine what it's doing to our bodies.
Designing for Migraines
Did you know that 39 MILLION Americans suffer from migraines? With migraines being a fairly common ailment, it only makes sense to consider both what prompts these episodes, but also a respite when we experience them.
5 Ways to Improve Existing Kitchen Accessibility
We’ve seen all the fantastic designs for accessible kitchens with varying counter heights, and fantastic built-ins that all require a full kitchen renovation. But, what if a full renovation is not in the cards? How can we create an accessible kitchen using what we have?