Craig Bagley Architect

It’s not architecture, but it’s related: Check out some great California photos at the link below. I’m a native Californian. The site’s owner Gary Friedman was of some help to me, and therefore I want to return the favor.

If you’re building a patio, use materials that minimize runoff. Lots of choices here, from the traditional method of simply laying bricks in sand, without mortar, to the newer pervious concrete pavements, which absorb water and percolate it into the underlying soil. Benefits? You will minimize sediment erosion and runoff in your yard, (and beyond), reduce pollution in our waterways, and help recharge the water table.

The tools of the profession have changed dramatically. The image you see here is a way of viewing a space as part of a 3D model. Now, if you were remodeling a home with an architect, how would you like to evaluate your new kitchen? I thought so, and that’s why the new 3D modeling tools are so powerful. The traditional two dimensional plan just doesn’t stack up. Cost extra? Usually not! How’s that for a bargain?

As an architect who has dealt with insurance work, make sure your home is fully insured for whatever it will cost to replace it. Consult a couple local builders as a check on the insurance company’s estimate. Architect/engineer fees should be included. Required building code upgrades can be a major expense, so make sure you have this rider, even if your home is fairly new. Remember, codes change every three years.

If you build, the most important decisions you make will be: 1. Choosing a designer 2. Choosing a builder 3. How to manage the money... So give careful thought to all of these. The differences between good choices and bad choices can be huge!