What is a Mixed-use Building and What are its Benefits?
Traditionally, people didn’t segregate their buildings based on their function. Throughout history, it was natural to build homes next to markets, eateries, taverns, places of worship, and various shops. Here in North America, the earliest cities and towns sprouted around a “Main Street” – a thoroughfare lined with ground-floor businesses and upper-floor dwellings. Only with […]
What’s it Like to Design and Build Your Own House from Scratch?
Are you thinking about building a home by yourself? There are many reasons to consider building your own house. You get some peace of mind by handling the process your way. There’s no need to worry about a general contractor (GC) leaving the job half-way. Finally, there’s a financial incentive of not paying for a […]
What are the Stages of a Construction Project?
All construction projects are unique. Each progresses from start to finish in a one-of-a-kind way. That said, there are 5 stages of construction that apply to every project, whether it’s a single family home or 50-story condo development. If you’re involved in construction, knowing these stages can help you see the big picture, yet also […]
How to Save Money on Your Utility Bills
Do you feel that your household pays too much for energy bills? By recent estimates, Californians spend roughly $380 on utilities every month. Annually, that adds up to $4,560 – the equivalent of average monthly rent in San Francisco’s Mission Bay. If you’re considering ways of driving this number down, you’re not alone. Like many […]
Efficient Architectural and Structural Designs Can Reduce Your Budget
Are you thinking of ways to economize on your construction project? An efficient design can go a long way in reducing your project’s budget, especially if you can find compromises in the big chunks of scope. Plan efficiently, avoid large openings and open spaces, and your savings can be substantial. All you need is to […]