Behind the Scenes! A series of posts to help you understand what I’m doing back here. You know, behind the scenes. Up next, Build Your Team!
Read MoreBehind the Scenes! A series of posts to help you understand what I’m doing back here. You know, behind the scenes. Up next, Designing A House!
Read MoreBehind the Scenes! A series of posts to help you understand what I’m doing back here. You know, behind the scenes. Up next, Researching Your Property
Read MoreBehind the Scenes! A series of posts to help you understand what I’m doing back here. You know, behind the scenes. Introducing the first post in my Behind the Scenes series: Finding a Designer!
Read MoreIPD is the simple, common sense way to build.
I’ve written a couple articles about project delivery methods. But there’s one method I haven’t written about yet, which is crazy because it’s my favorite. It’s called Integrated Project Delivery.
Most homeowners don’t even know IPD exists but it’s quickly gaining popularity with building industry pros.
Read MoreAs you cook up a storm this holiday season, the yearning for a new kitchen probably feels stronger than ever.
How long have you dreamt of a pristine, sparkly, inspiring kitchen? If only it weren’t for that silly little obstacle: money.
The good news: you don’t have to deplete your bank account to get what you want! There are simple ways to keep your costs low and your satisfaction high.
Read MoreThe good and bad of the most popular heating systems.
Heating and cooling uses more energy that any other system in the house. You can save A LOT of money by selecting the right heating equipment. So the question is, what IS the right heating equipment? As you can imagine, the answer is complicated, but here's a breakdown of the three most common energy sources for today's home.
Read MoreThe good and bad of the most popular water heaters.
With every new project I ask: What type of water heater would you like, tank storage or tankless? And over the last three years homeowners’ answers have been varied, but most people just seem confused. Here are the pros and cons to clear things up.
Read MoreMy life is a bit hectic right, perhaps yours is too. So rather than trying to cram your brain with a kickass blog post, I'm going to give you some comic relief.
Here are a few strips from my new favorite comic: Arch. The life of an architect. ENJOY!
Read MoreThere Is A Better Way To Build
Remember last week, when I discussed the different ways to get your house built? Well there was one building delivery method I didn't talk about. IT's THE BEST ONE. It's called Collaborative Construction and the benefits are mind blowing. Plus, it's simple!
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The 3 Most Common Building Delivery Methods to Help You Decide
The building industry can be very confusing. Who does what? There are SO many services and materials needed for even the simplest home remodel. And there are SO many places to get them!
Who do you choose? Which process is the best? Well, I can't tell you that. But I CAN help you weigh the positive's and negatives.
Read More5 steps to find the perfect designer for your project.
Want to remodel or redecorate but have no idea where to start? How much money will you need? How long will it take? How do you find the right team? No matter if you're doing a small bathroom renovation, a new house build, or just furnishing your new apartment, you need a team you get along with.
Read MoreA recent article questions our love of small spaces.
How do Tiny Spaces make you feel? Do you want to stay? Or run away? Recently, The New York Times published a quick and very interesting article that made me think. Why do people like Tiny Houses? Molly Young thinks she has the answer.
Read More7 ways to lower your energy bill.
In green building, there’s this thing called “Passive” Design. It sounds unexciting but it’s one of the most powerful tools at a homeowner’s disposal. You rarely hear about it because very few people make money with Passive Design, except the homeowner!
The easiest time to apply Passive Design is in the schematic design of a new house. In the verrry beginning. But there are also things small moves you can do in an apartment or small house renovation.
Read MoreWhy you may need a land surveyor.
Ever wonder what a Land Surveyor does? Or why they're standing the middle of the road with a yellow tripod contraption? My dad, Clive Hopwood, is a Land Surveyor. He’s been doing it for as long as I can remember... Here's what he has to say.
Read More5 things you should know.
Space for your classic car, laundry room, man cave, or workshop; a detached accessory structure can serve so many purposes, but how to get it done? Here’s a breakdown for homeowners in the City of San Diego.
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