Category: Building knowledge

    • Architect = Value

      …so why hire an architect? What do they do anyway? I often get the comments that …”I can’t afford an architect. They are for people that have real money to spend…” In fact the opposite is generally applicable. True, there are the great public architects that charge a hefty fee and create amazingly spectacular architecture,…

    • Habify opens in Coral Gables, Florida.

      “Evolve your Home” is the slogan for the new concept that opened its store/showroom location in Coral Gables. Proprietors Christopher Block and Buck Reilly have combined their experience in home energy auditing and passion for good design and quality materials that have one common denominator: they will make your home better in some way. That…

    • How to get a building permit in Miami – South Florida

      How do you get a permit in Miami? You don’t! All kidding aside, the permitting process is an important and often misunderstood part of the construction process. Commercial and public projects are usually well familiar with the process, time and cost; but most home and small business owners are not. Allow me to shed some…

    • Transforming the architecture world

      As the first Florida franchise to join Transforming Architecture I have been presented with many questions about the need for transformation and the impact to my clients. Why do we need to change the role of the architect? To answer this question, we first need to look at the typical view of the architect and…

    • What it takes to become a licensed Architect…

      Recently a good friend of mine, Justin Alpert, AIA, was recommended and received his architectural license. I truly congratulate him and like to share a portion of a note that he had send out in gratitude to his friends and colleagues that helped him get there. It is particularly interesting to me, to see the…

    • Insulation – a key component for energy efficient green buildings.

      Insulation is one of the most important aspects to consider when looking at the energy performance and potential savings for your project. Especially on residential projects, the standard code required insulation is quite insufficient and leaves much room for improvement. When thinking about improved energy improvement and especially the introduction of alternative or renewable energy,…