Architecture in Washington State Q Sterry
Q.Sterry is now licensed to practice architecture in Washington State. A few fun and exciting projects have prompted this move. We are very excited about the possibilities this new opportunity brings.
Retroactive Building Permit
Well-intentioned homeowners often begin working on their homes without a clear understanding of the type of improvements that will require a building permit.
Whether they are trying to add a simple custom design element, or something larger like a full-blown remodel or addition, it is always recommended to have a preliminary discussion with a local City or County Planner, (or other design professional/ Architect).
Treehouse Structure Design - House Plans & Design
We all have different ideas and visions of what we want out of our treehouse. It might be a place for the kids to hang out, a home office, a guest suite, or simply a place for the adults to hang out and relax. In any event, designing can be the most exciting part where you get to put all the things you ever wanted from your past childhood dreams as well as your kid’s current wants.
Designing with Trees
Designing with trees is a great way to control heating and cooling costs at your home. How? Through the use of deciduous trees on the south side of the building. Many people think of trees in terms of the shade they provide, but a great advantage of deciduous trees is that they lose their leaves in the fall.
Code Changes add Complexity - Secondary Dwelling Units
Code changes add complexity: The City of Eugene has revised the Residential Code concerning SDUs( Secondary Dwelling Units ). Secondary Dwelling Units, otherwise known as Guest Houses, Mother-In-Law Apartments, Granny-Flats or Studio Apartments are still allowed in most zones but all are limited in size. The new code changes add complexity and cost while the size limitations are being reduced.
Passive Cooling Techniques - Ceiling Fan Direction
When we talk about passive cooling techniques this is key: when outside temperatures are hotter than desired indoor temperatures, or when the room just feels too warm, switch your ceiling fan to push warm air down.
Door Placement & Swing - Bathroom Door Design
Door placement & swing is essential when designing a home or business, be sure to place bathroom doors in a location that opens to a hall, corridor, or other private/ circulation space.
Never design a bathroom door that opens into a living room, dining room, or other entertaining space. Bathroom doors visible from entertaining space makes using the bathroom awkward, and left open can be rather unsightly.
Concrete Curing Process - Hydrate Concrete
Water is essential for the concrete curing process. Initially, a precise amount of water is mixed with the Portland cement and aggregate, but after the concrete has solidified, water begins to evaporate out of the matrix.
If too much water evaporates too quickly the curing can become stressed and the concrete brittle.