Larry Sauer Design Studio Blog

I have always felt that we as architects must approach our our work as problem solvers. To address the needs of our clients in an efficient and functional way. Creating a beautiful solution to their desires. Turning their dreams in to reality. 

To put it simply  “The best designs are those that helps clients achieve their goals.”

This was sent by Michelle Kaufman, West coast architect involved in green architecture. Thought it was worth while to share.michelle-kaufmann%e2%80%99s-blog-%c2%bb-blog-archive-%c2%bb-new-smart-home-opens.htm

Personality match is important. Find  contractor that hns  good mntch with your personality. Of course, you want one who does good work nd has some experience with simular type projects. It is importnt to trust the person you are deling with. If your gut says it is the wrong fit, go somewhere else. Ask questions. A good contrctor will listen and respond to your concerns.

We just returned from 10 day is Berekeley California visiting our daughter and family. We speak of sustainable, and a green approach to our work and lives. But I saw a sustainable life style in action. The Dale family not only uses recyclable bags, composts, they go far beyond.

Rebecca, who use to work for an Architectural salvage company, uses salvaged material for all of their projects. These include an old toilet planted that acts as a grey water system for their vegatable garden whick supplies most of their vegatables. Thier chicken coop, home for 9 free range chickens, was put together with recycled materials.

They collect 9 eggs a day, enough for their family and friends.

It was a joy to see how easy it can be to live a sustainable life style.

I have always considering living in a green house, with glass walls, and roof. The challenges are great. Issues such as privacy, energy, and comfort. I have considered landscape solutions to create privacy screening, and shading in the summer months.
Recently a friend, professional photographer, sent me this link to a video that at last uses technology to solve many of those issues. Here is a structure that has the ability to vary or connect the overall building’s composition and character according to season, weather or simply a desire to delight
http://www.wallpaper.com/video/architecture/sliding-house-by-drmm/13829144001

In these times many are asking how they can reduce their footprint.

We hear about our carbon footprint, our impact on the planet. Well here is the ultimate in downsizing.

http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/   check it out.

This was  question asked on line by another Architect. I feel that it is a good and fair question.

My approach, when asked recommend contractors for the client to interview is to  pass long names  that have worked for past clients, or have come to me with strong refernces.

I will advise them  of how to interview  to be able to compare qualifications, and quality. The home owner  must feel comfortable with their decision on their final selection of the contractor.

Last night I was at the opening of a renovation we recently completed. It is  designed Arlington Green Choice Home. As I was looking round,I wondered what other initiatives we could employ to create a more energy efficient home.

I looked at the architectural lighting installed and wondered why all of the lighting was not CFL lamps. I realized the home owner ht the option of installing any a they desired, it is not lwys in the architects purview.

It did started me thinking about a comparison between LED’s  and CFL lamps. ( LED’s are the most long lasting, and efficient lighting-at this time) The more I learn about lighting the more I realize the best one depends on the correct application.

I was sent this link http://www.youtube.com/homeproject

Take the time to watch. It is  beautiful, and powerful. Visual and verbal poetry.

It is also disturbing.

It points out that small as well as large sustaiable  projects will have an impace on our future quality of life.

Today in the Washington Post there was an article about the affect rising sea levels can have directly on this, the eastern seaboard, our regon.

This will give all something to think about.

I would like to hear your comments.