Category: Architecture

Sustainable living farm homestead
Architecture

Sustainable Living: Designing and Navigating a Homesteader’s Journey

In this first blog post of the series, we explore the crucial role of architecture in creating a sustainable homestead. As we stand on the brink of a significant transformation in the American lifestyle, with people increasingly moving from urban areas to rural landscapes, the essence of the American Dream is being redefined. This mass migration represents a shift towards self-reliance and sustainable living, with the homestead becoming the heart of this lifestyle.

The role of architectural design in this transition cannot be overstated. Architecture merges vision with reality, transforming dreams of a self-sufficient life into tangible structures and systems. In this dance between aspiration and action, architecture sets the rhythm.

“Embracing homesteading is embracing the dance between dream and reality, and in this dance, architecture is the rhythm that moves us forward.”

This blog post offers an exciting glimpse into this journey towards sustainable living, guiding you through the foundational steps of envisioning your homestead and understanding the role of design in achieving this vision. Welcome to your journey towards sustainable living.

Hawaii Bill amendment to help home owners.
Architecture

Hawaii Bill Amendment to Increase Cost Thresholds

The Hawaii Bill amendment in Congress seeks to revise Section 464-13 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, increasing cost thresholds for exemptions on privately owned buildings and residences. This development may affect both homeowners and licensed professionals. The bill targets raising cost limits for one-story and two-story buildings, as well as residential structures. Homeowners could gain flexibility and cost savings for construction and renovation projects, but must comply with building codes and safety regulations. Licensed professionals might face varied outcomes, with potential drops in demand for small projects, yet increased demand for larger projects and rectifying substandard work done without expert input. As the bill advances, staying informed and assessing the impact of these changes is crucial for all involved.

Residential Design within Hawaii's Limited Land
Architecture, Hawaiian Architecture

Residential Design within Hawaii’s Limited Land

Designing a residential property within Hawaii’s limited land requires careful planning and creative solutions. When working with limited land, it’s essential to maximize space and make the most of every inch. This can be achieved through solutions like multi-purpose furniture, built-in storage, and outdoor living spaces. Building on steeply sloped lots in Hawaii also presents unique challenges that require attention to detail and a stable foundation. Working with a structural engineer is crucial to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the property. Finally, incorporating sustainable home design features like solar panels and high-efficiency HVAC systems can help reduce your environmental footprint and lower your utility bills. With these solutions, you can create a functional, beautiful, and eco-friendly residential design within Hawaii’s limited land.

Hawaii Architect and clients signing a contract in an office
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation, Architecture

AIA B-Series Architect Contracts Explained

When it comes to construction projects, agreements between the owner and the architect are crucial. We will be discussing two commonly used agreements: Bl0l-2017 Standard Form of Agreement and B195-2008 Owner-Architect Agreement for Integrated Project Delivery. These agreements outline the responsibilities and expectations of both parties and help ensure the project is completed on time and within budget. The B195-2008 agreement is specifically designed for use in an integrated project delivery setting, where all members of the team work together to achieve a common goal. Overall, these agreements are necessary to have a smooth and successful project.