In this Audiopost, we speak with General Contractor Jay Cates of Cates Fine Homes. I have worked with Jay on several projects in the Twin City area and thought it would be a great idea to have him discuss the building process. Some of the topics include: -What is a General Contractor? -What steps or Read More…
Mar
Rethink, Reuse – Furniture
We love taking something that was meant for one purpose and then finding another creative and unique use for that object, material or ‘thing-a-mabobber’. We try to layer physical transformations with meaning to reinforce the design of the overall project. One example below is using corks for a bar stool – you might drink wine Read More…
Feb
Photography Friday -Making a Commercial
A while back I ‘tweeted’ about my oldest daughter being filmed for a national television commercial. Many of you asked about the experience and who the commercial was for. Just by chance (yeah right), I happened to have my camera with me and assembled a ‘behind the scenes’ look at how they made the commercial. Please take a look at my video below, then paste this link in your browser to see the actual final commercial:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyswrOZMh4Y
Yes, the father is proud and thanks everyone for your interest!
Feb
Moleskine – A Favorite Thing
Many of you, I am sure, are familiar with these note/sketch/catch-all books called “Moleskine“. They feel like a special indulgence . In fact, it took a while for me to not cringe when I misspelled a word or created a sketch I didn’t like within this beautiful notebook. I am finally over that and look Read More…
Feb
Working with an Architect Series – Part 2
Finding and then Hiring and Architect Whether the project is commercial or residential, Owners often struggle with the ‘Where do I begin?’ question in looking for an Architect. The first question really should be ‘When do I begin?’ The answer: As early as possible. Even if you are unsure of your potential project making Read More…
Feb
Sound Absorbing Wall Panels
Fun and new product from Traullit of Sweden. (www.traullitdekor.se) These colorful hexagon shaped wall panels absorb sound and make a bold graphic statement. They are comprised of wood wool, cement and water. Check out the fun timelapse installation video below.
Träullit Dekor Hexagon by FORM US WITH LOVE from FORM US WITH LOVE on Vimeo.
Feb
Podcast #25 – Insurance? What for?
In this Audiopost, we speak with Insurance Agent Branden McDonald about what you need to know when starting a construction project. Some of the topics include: -What are the main things people need to be aware of when beginning a construction project? -Who needs to carry insurance -the Owner or Contractor? -How are the needs Read More…
Feb
DIY Design – CD Rack
Although most of my product research is now found via the internet, there are still a few favorite ‘stand-by’ resources that are kept on compact disc. While shuffling through CD’s the other day, I reminisced on the racks I had built to store them. Similar to the previous DIY Design posts, here is another example Read More…
Feb
Photography Friday – Wildlife
As you can tell from our site, one of my more recent obsessions is Photography. Not unlike architecture, there is an artistry to doing it well. You can define an experience, create a mood and evoke thoughtful discussion. Instead of ‘tweeting’ some images and links for Photography Friday, I thought I would formalize a post Read More…
Feb
What Causes Ice Dams?
While driving through town yesterday, I took a few pictures (see below) which prompted me to write this post. We have been hit hard here in the midwest with cold temperatures and snow. This sets up a perfect storm to develop Ice Dams. Ice dams are caused by heat escaping at the intersection of the Read More…
Jan
Podcast #24 – GeoThermal Heating
In this Audiopost, we discuss Geo Thermal Heating and Cooling basics. Mechanical Contractor Mike Anderson of Anderson Heating answers our questions. Some of those include: – What is Geo Thermal Heating? – Explain the different options of transferring energy with the ground. Horizontal, vertical, etc. – How is energy from the ground actually converted to Read More…
Jan
Tape Measure Tricks – Just for Fun!
Just for fun, I thought I would share this video showing some creative contractors and a tape measure. You never know what talent people have…or how bored they may be to develop that talent!