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Tight Budget, Lean Solution
Budget friendly buildings start with a certain mindset even before design begins. Questioning the way the occupants work in the most optimum and efficient ways can eliminate the need for certain spaces. Utilizing natural landscape existing on the site can eliminate the need for new planting. Less volume, walls, redundant ceilings with more passive design strategies using building orientation, natural light, and shaded windows can lead to a truly sustainable building – a building that needs less to function well….
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Visiting Past Projects
It’s good to go back to projects to check in on how the building is being maintained and weathering. This one is in the top ten category of favorite projects. A very informed and longtime client helped to take our conversations to a higher level of client engagement in the design…and verifying our south facing windows are completely shaded at winter solstice sun angles is also satisfying!
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Another Move-in Day
Fine tuning and finish up items are what remains before opening for business. The result will be another new healthy and vibrant space for business in downtown Bryan, Texas. A major infrastructure commitment from the City of Bryan is beginning to really pay off as the downtown area gains momentum with a good mixed use environment of retail and professional businesses, entertainment and housing. Looking forward to celebrating an open house in the near future for Legal Monkeys.
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We get attached…
Like most parents show off photos of their children, we show off photos of our buildings. A real jewel is up for sale. This one was a combination of sweat equity and design. An historic building with a modern twist that stays true to materials the original building may have included in its period. Carrara marble in slabs and penny round mosaic tile, frameless glass doors both clear and obscure, to allow the natural daylight to penetrate the spaces, Ann…
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What does the site tell you about how to design your house?
So many times, clients have preconceived ideas about the design of their house. Most of the time their well thought out ideas don’t take into consideration the site. Starting with an understanding of the uniqueness of the site helps determine where certain rooms want to be, how the house needs to be oriented to shade the home in the hot sun and take advantage of cool evening breezes, views toward and from each room, and how to join the interior…
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Texas Downtown Association 2016 Award Winner
The LaGrange Casino Hall renovation was a real challenge for all involved. The result is a building that can serve many needed functions in the community but also is a source of pride and another reminder of the city’s rich history. Before and after photos of the successful project, recognized by the Texas Downtown Association as award worthy!
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Repeat clients, part two…
Legal Monkeys, a medical records collection firm for law offices, bought a city block in downtown Bryan Texas. The project includes the repurposing of a 1950’s bank building and addition. The new addition complements the existing mid-century minimalist modern building using a matching brick, but differentiates itself as an addition with a textured surface as the sun creates shadows along the recessed brick coursing. Administrative offices are the focal point serving as the display windows along the streetscape. Large new…
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One month and counting!
Repeat clients are the best! Citizens State Bank will be open for business in their new expansive lobby and expanded new accounts and loan offices in time for the holidays. The stone is almost complete and finishes are wrapping up on the interior. Looking forward to a Grand Reopening!
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Move-in Day
It’s exciting and fulfilling to get a call from a client that is thrilled with their new home. Especially so when they begin to explain how all the design goals were brought into reality; carefully framed unique views from each strategically placed room, proper orientation to be able to enjoy indoor and outdoor spaces without intense unwanted heat, and placement of major outdoor spaces based on where the breezes make them pleasant and enjoyable. Oh, and the master bedroom that…
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Home with a view… update
The most satisfying part of the project is always the post construction party and seeing people interact with the building. An added bonus is hearing how the owners have enjoyed their short time living in the space, enjoying the carefully placed windows that provide a comfortable, pleasing naturally daylit environment all throughout the day. Landscaping next, then more photos…
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