Part 2 of our house remodel involves some ‘first step’ concept sketches. I typically just go with the my first thoughts and then loosely test those ideas, making several options. I warn the clients that this initial review meeting is not meant to necessarily find a solution but to have something to look at and react to. The images and plans are pretty basic (no color, materials, etc.) because I want the focus to be on the bigger picture. The hope is that we end up with a direction to then develop. This video primarily focuses on discussing the main level changes.

Hudson Remodel Part II from michael huber architects on Vimeo.

I am beginning a new project and thought I would document the progress. The home was built around 1910 with a subsequent addition in the back. The new home owners want to make a few changes some of which include remodeling the kitchen and dining area, open up/connect spaces on the main level, and create a new master suite on the upper level. This will be a fun project as the clients are great people! Take a look!

Hudson Remodel Part I from michael huber architects on Vimeo.

Many of you know that occasionally I build some furniture or specialty pieces for my clients and their projects. This is a fun, hands-on way to get my creative juices flowing. Drawing ideas on paper or via a computer is great but learning and doing the actual fabrication gives you an appreciation of the work and time involved in fabricating those ideas.

Below is a video showing architect Frank Howarth building out a shelving system for his broom closet. He has a great way of explaining and showing the work. Take a look at his other videos too!

Carpenter Sean Headrick decided to build his own drafting table. Using baltic birch and misc. wood cutouts, gears, etc., Sean turned a utilitarian piece of furniture into a work of art. A scissor lift system raises and lowers the drafting surface. Over designed? Maybe, but still fun to see!

Today we speak with Tom of Carlsgaard Finish Carpentry and learn about the icing on the cake for every project – the woodwork and trim. This work is instrumental in determining the character and feel for every project. Some of the items discussed include:

– The role of the finish carpenter in context with the overall project
– The types of work included
– Integration into the design or who comes up with the design
– Tools and equipment
– Favorite woods and projects

Feel free to contact Tom at 651-210-1661
or email him at tom.carlsgaard@att.net

Please subscribe to these podcasts also via iTunes. Search for the title ‘Design & Other Fun Stuff’.

Are you interested in being an architect? This video documentary ‘Archiculture’ shows what Design Studio life is like on a college campus. I have to say… it is so accurate to my experience that I had knots in my stomach. On one hand I missed those times and on the other, man, I am glad that is over! The chaos, camaraderie and the finding of one’s own skill and design philosophy is shown in its raw glory. Frankly, I wish everyone would watch this documentary to gain an understanding of our chosen career…and passion.

Source: Arbuckle Industries

Mortise and tenon joints are known for being some of the most strong and stable for connecting two pieces of wood. It can also be a struggle doing it correctly! Watch these Japanese masters assemble this beam using traditional methods. They not only can put it together for a dry-fit, they can easily disassemble it. Beautiful.

Source: Core77

With the start of a new year, I will begin by thanking all of you for letting me post a variety of things that I find interesting here on our weblog. Many of you know that I am a photography and videography enthusiast. This goes hand in hand with my architecture profession as a visual and creative medium that others can experience.

After some Holiday time off, most of us are slowly getting back into our routines. I thought it might be fun to share some cinemagraphs by a young and amazing photographer from France named Julein Douvier. Hopefully these mesmerizing ‘moving pictures’ will help you clear the cobwebs, get the creative juices flowing and gear up for a fantastic 2015… or you will waste an hour just staring at these…!