Design
Design
Clever design solutions for unique residential projects.
Improve Thermal Performance and Lower Costs
An optimized value engineered approach to framing kills two birds with one stone
Custom Builder
A Historical Fix on a Modern Foursquare
The Foursquare is an American architectural staple, but modern building has removed some of its historic details. Restoration expert Brent Hull uses a hypothetical redesign to illustrate the point
Custom Builder
In Business: Modern Design, Compromise, and Money
Custom builder Zane Williams opens up about what it takes to maintain his architectural vision, from handling clients and staying true to his fluid style, to the importance of transparency and how a slush fund avoids awkward conversations mid-construction
Projects
A Lakefront Dock That Embraces Indoor/Outdoor Living
This screened dock on Hog Pen Creek in Austin, Texas takes its design cues from the home's numerous indoor/outdoor living spaces
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Custom Builder
A Historical Fix on a Modern Foursquare
The Foursquare is an American architectural staple, but modern building has removed some of its historic details. Restoration expert Brent Hull uses a hypothetical redesign to illustrate the point
Custom Builder
In Business: Modern Design, Compromise, and Money
Custom builder Zane Williams opens up about what it takes to maintain his architectural vision, from handling clients and staying true to his fluid style, to the importance of transparency and how a slush fund avoids awkward conversations mid-construction
Projects
A Lakefront Dock That Embraces Indoor/Outdoor Living
This screened dock on Hog Pen Creek in Austin, Texas takes its design cues from the home's numerous indoor/outdoor living spaces
Design
Finding the Best Angle—a Lake Austin Dock Framed to Fit the Home’s Sight Lines
This two-tiered waterfront dock on Lake Austin was constructed on an angle to provide homeowners with the best views of the lake from every room in the house
Construction
Detailing for Dissimilar Materials
Creating adequate separation between materials is critical to mitigating cracks (and worse) along cementitious surfaces.
Construction
Small-Duct, High-Velocity HVAC: What It Is and Why It Pairs Well With Modular Homes
Modular home manufacturers, builders, and owners now have many choices when it comes to indoor climate systems, but small-duct, high-velocity (SDHV) systems may be the perfect fit for these types of homes
Codes & Standards
An Introduction to the Zero Energy Ready Home Program
Late in 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy's Zero Energy Ready Home program announced the rollout of ZERH Single Family Version 2
Construction
Trouble-Free Stucco Overhangs
Transitions from walls to horizontal surfaces are prone to moisture problems. Attention to proper detailing in these areas is key.
Case Studies
The Art of Weaving Custom Homes Into the Urban Fabric
These homes demonstrate the challenges and opportunities of custom urban infill
Case Studies
A Pittsburgh Rowhouse With a View
Working mostly within the city limits but in a variety of neighborhoods on different building types, architect Darren Lloyd says every project is instructive for projects that follow, regardless of type.