How to Work with a Residential Architect

Residential architects are professionals and have to stay up to snuff on the local building codes. Like lawyers, they like to bill by the hour, so the remodeling project can get out of control financially. Follow these steps to avoid this situation.

* Become a Remodeling Guru. There are plenty of great remodeling shows on TV just now. Watch them. Learn what's involved in a do-over. Which special trades need to be involved? Electricians? Plumbers? Get an idea of which features are top priority. Laminate floors or natural stone? Granite counter tops or a cozy breakfast nook?
* Nail Down the Budget. This is the one area where most homeowners fall down. Building materials are expensive, especially if the idea is to follow green building practices. Labor is also expensive. Neither expense should be skimped on, but priorities must be established, noted, and stuck to.
* Shop Around for the Right Architect. Architects don't just draw blueprints, they are also conceptual artists. As such, they each have their individual styles. Make sure the architect's personal style agrees with the concept being considered. Does the architect embrace green building concepts? Does he or she think eclectically? Is the neighborhood homeowner association going to be an issue?
* Be a Good Communicator. No architect is a mind reader. Before meeting with her, have a clear concept of the work to be done. Be ready to change plans to meet local building codes and reality constraints, but be clear about the basic concept. Wasted time is wasted money.
* Be Sure the Architect and General Contractor can Work Together. In the best possible scenario, the blueprint guy and the building contractor already have a working relationship. Ask the architect for references, but be sure to talk to three or four to find one you have a good gut feeling for as well as an impressive portfolio.
* Know Which Specific Services the Architect will Provide. Not all remodels require a full-service treatment. Again, billable hours are king. Some areas will need more focus than others.
* Be Prepared to Collaborate with the Architect. As stated above, architects are artists in their own rights. With any experience, they know what works with what, structurally as well as style-wise. Provide the idea of what's expected but be prepared to modify it. That expertise is one of the things being paid for.
* Don't Have Piecemeal Communication. Don't waste time bantering. Take the architect's recommendations as a package, digest them, and develop a response. This approach works much better than playing tennis with each detail one at a time.
* Use Your Digital Camera as the Remodeling Project Progresses. Take digital pictures and email them to the architectural firm rather than having them visit the job site every day. This makes life easier on everybody. The work rhythm isn't interrupted as often, everything is documented, and the fundamental idea is enforced: billable hours are reduced.

Advice For Architectural & Design Professionals, Builders And The Layman Using Architectural Columns

How to Properly Implement Architectural Columns Using Classic Design Elements Be honest....most of the time when your next design or architectural project begs for classic design elements, particularly when involving architectural columns, don't you dust off your old college text books looking for what to use, how to use it and where it should be placed? Don't you spend lost hours trying to figure out proportion, scale, intercolumnation [what's that?], how the entablature relates to the decorative columns and entry? Do you feel overwhelmed at all the options, rules and specs? You are not alone!

When designing a home or commercial building, architects and designers interested in utilizing classical design elements have many choices indeed, including which style of architectural columns and capitals should be used and where they should be placed. In order for the design of the project to blend well with the architectural columns and other elements being used, an Architect

One who has completed a course of study in building and design, and is licensed by the state as an architect. One who draws up plans.'); return false">Architect may desire the assistance of an architectural products specialist who can advise on both overall style and how that style will work within the established Orders of Architecture.

The Orders of Architecture And Why They Matter

The classic Orders of Architecture are Roman Doric, Roman Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite styles which include not only element proportions but include specific design motifs. Additional styles of decorative capitals that don't fall within this framework, but are still very popular today include Empire, Scamozzi, and Temple of Wind. The Orders of Architecture define not only the look of these ancient styles but also follow a particular set of mathematical rules that manages the actual proportions of the decorative columns.

Financial, educational and like institutions want their communities to perceive them as a substantial entity, with strength and a superb foundation. For architects needing to convey this message, the Tuscan and Greek Doric styles should be considered. Tuscan architectural columns are simple and elegant in design and have a powerful, clean appearance as they give the impression of supporting a great deal of weight. Greek Doric decorative columns are also very straightforward and substantial in design. The simple Doric capital combined with weighty fluting and no column base; convey a permanence and authority not found with other styles. In today's marketplace, Tuscan architectural columns can be ordered in both wood and fiberglass while traditional Doric decorative columns can be found in wood.

Based on the rules of the Orders of Architecture, proportionally the diameter of a Tuscan column would be seven times the height of the column. The diameter of a Greek Doric column would be five and one half times the column height. This means that these architectural columns would be shorter, stockier, and more solid in appearance than other column styles, and work well with certain building styles, especially structures that are large in scale.

Additionally, an architect looking for decorative columns that are more graceful in appearance should consider the Roman Ionic and Roman Corinthian architectural styles. Roman Ionic and Roman Corinthian architectural columns are available in fluted and smooth versions, which lend themselves to many interior and exterior applications including luxurious residences, upscale retail, commercial and hospitality facilities. The crowning element of these decorative columns, the capital can be enhanced with a number of decorative options including the Roman Ionic and Corinthian, the Greek Erectheum and Greek Angular Ionic in addition to Scamozzi, Empire and Temple of Wind style capitals. The grace and charm of these styles of architectural columns are self evident in their popularity and can be specified in either fiberglass or wood shafts, with the decorative capitals being available in a number materials including, FRP, foam, gypsum, and stone composites.

The diameter of a Roman Ionic column is based on nine times the height of the column, with the Roman Corinthian diameter at ten times the column height. These more slender proportions cause these styles of architectural columns to have a more graceful and elegant appearance.

Why Intercolumniation Is Important To You

Within the framework of the Orders of Architecture the architect/designer must also take into consideration intercolumnation, that is, the distance between architectural columns, measured between the bottoms of shafts. This is critical when several decorative columns are being used and are also the focal point of the building elevation. Even an untrained eye can pick up improper spacing of architectural columns that can throw off the entire design. Saint Peters Square in Rome, Italy is an incredible example of a perfectly proportioned intercolumnation design.

Also when considering intercolumniation proportions and spacing, bear in mind the location of windows and doors on the building and how the architectural columns relate to these architectural features. Poorly spaced decorative columns can block windows and entries or make elevations look unbalanced. Intercolumnation may be of more interest to homeowners and residential builders as decorative columns could block natural light streaming into the residence.

The proportions of intercolumnation are fairly complex and include the relationships between architectural columns, column heights and widths and the expanse of the elevation. One should consider consulting with a manufacturer's or supplier's architectural product specialist for expertise and guidance. These individuals are often not just experts on classic architectural elements, but can help to "translate" the Orders of Architecture to today's best construction practices.

Working with the Right Supplier of Architectural Products

For architects, builders and designers to achieve the best possible outcome for a commercial building or private residence, one should consider working with a supplier of architectural products that has an in-depth understanding of classical architecture and how it relates to today's home and commercial building styles. While many architects have a general understanding of classical styles and proportion, a manufacturer or supplier of architectural products that staffs architectural product specialists will be able to offer critical guidance throughout the design and building process.

Once one begins working with a knowledgeable manufacturer or supplier of architectural products, he or she will gain a better understanding about key design elements such as the transition of the capital at the top of the column, how the capital will translate to the soffit (without being too narrow or too wide), or how far the building's overhang must reach so that the bases of any architectural columns used will not project past the edge of the concrete pad or porch, and why the proportion of the entablature in relation to the decorative columns is key.

Conclusion

The challenge for architects, builders and designers lies in locating a manufacturer or supplier of architectural products that truly understands classical design and how this translates to the overall aesthetics of the final project.

Even a skilled professional in classical design can benefit greatly from working with an experienced supplier or manufacturer of decorative columns and other architectural products. This partnership will help to ensure that proportions, balance and style of architectural elements enhance the exterior of residential and commercial buildings not compete with each other. When the design of architectural elements is managed appropriately, along with proper sizing and spacing of decorative columns based on classical rules, the building will have a harmonious and aesthetic appearance that remains timeless.

Choosing the right bedroom flooring

Choosing the right flooring for your bedroom can make a big difference in the decor of your personal retreat. Although you might not think of the floor as a focal point in your bedroom decorating, it does provide a foundation for everything that you do.

The traditional choice for bedroom flooring has always been carpet. And you can certainly carpet your bedroom if that's your preference. Carpet is very comfortable and you have the choice between throw rugs or wall-to-wall carpeting. But you're not limited to carpet any longer. There are a wide array of options available for bedroom flooring.

The best way to go about choosing the right flooring for your bedroom is to balance both looks and comfort. You should attempt to find flooring that is attractive, but at the same time useful. Special considerations you should keep in mind include the durability of your chosen bedroom flooring, the amount of maintenance required and your decorating budget.

Wood flooring is a classic bedroom choice. Hardwood floors tend to be emotionally warmer and more welcoming. You can find wood flooring in several different patterns and colors. Hardwood does add a lot of character to your bedroom, but it can be a little cold during the winter. This is easy to fix with some strategically placed throw rugs. You should keep in mind that true hardwood flooring has higher maintenance needs than artificial surfaces, and water is no friend to real wood.

Stone tile is an excellent choice for bedroom flooring, especially if you're looking for a natural substance. Stone provides an expensive look at an affordable price and gives your bedroom a spa-like feel. Maintenance is fairly light and stone tile stands up to a lot of abuse.

Bamboo is another natural flooring choice that has been especially popular in recent years. Surprisingly, bamboo is not wood, but is actually a form of grass. Bamboo is as strong as natural red oak flooring. Bamboo flooring is especially well-suited for changeable climates because it actually expands and contracts less than real wood. Bamboo is an eco-friendly choice as well, since bamboo grows more quickly and is more easily replenished after harvesting.

Marble bedroom flooring is a classic choice that provides a soothing and cooling look for your bedroom. Marble doesn't warm up quickly which makes it great for warm climates and not so good for colder areas. Marble resists stains, scratches and water.

Most designers' top choice for bedroom flooring is laminate. Laminate flooring provides the look and character of real wood flooring without the price or maintenance needs. In fact, laminate flooring is practically maintenance-free. It's highly durable, lasts for decades, and has no trouble resisting water, stains, or anything else you happen to spill on it.

Inside The House

The most important place in the house is the place of worship, the poojaghar. As far as possible the poojaghar should be in the north-east of the house. In the event of the house being too small to have an exclusive poojaghar, one can atleast have the place of worship in the north-eastern side. Place it in such a fashion that the deity would face the west while the one who performs the pooja would face east.
Photographs or images of two different deities should never be placed in front of each other. If the number of deities are more than one, they should be placed in one straight line.

1. Bedroom: The bedroom should be in the southern or the south-western part of the house & it should be arranged in such a way, that whoever sleeps there would have his head towards the south & his feet towards the north. On awaking up one should have ones sight set in the north, the abode of Lord Kubera, who showers prosperity.
   
   
2. Godown for grains & food materials: The family never faces shortage of food & grains if the north-western side of the house is spared for storing them. Metallic objects, not being used, can also be stored in this room. But since the south-west direction is supposed to be the abode of demons, the poojaghar should never be located in this direction. This room should have the minimum number of doors & windows & these should be as small as possible. This room should be dark-coloured & should never be used for auspicious ceremonies.
   
   
3. Sitting Room / Living Hall: The living room is an important part of the house. Hence it should be in the northern portion. Its door should open either to the north or the north-east. The furniture in this room should be placed in the southern & the western direction. It is always better to leave the northern part of this room open.
   
   
4. Bathroom: The bathroom in the house should be in the north, the east or the north-eastern direction. A bathroom in the north-east of the house brings in prosperity. If it is in the eastern-side, it ushers in physical well-being along with prosperity. A bathroom located in the south-east of the house is not good for the health of the lady of the house.
   
   
5. Toilet: The south-east is the ideal direction in which to have a toilet in the house. The west is also passable. But toilets should never be constructed in the north, the east or the north-eastern directions.
   
   
6. Kitchen: The kitchen should be located in the south-east of the house. Appliances like stoves should be kept in the south-eastern direction in the room. The arrangement should be such that the one who prepares food would have his /her face towards the east.
   
   
7. Dinning hall: The west of the house is ideally suited for the dining hall. While partaking the food one should sit facing the east. This arrangement makes everybody contended & peace prevails among family members.
   
   
8. Veranda: The eastern & northern sides are ideal for making verandas or balconies. They should be short compared to the height of other rooms of the house.
   
   
9. Wash Basin: Wash Basin should be either in the east or in the north. Due to such arrangement, one faces either east or north whenever the basin is used for different purposes like washing hands, face or shaving.

Important tips

1. The main entrance should be in the east or north but should be in line with the gate of the compound wall.
2. The wall of the house on the north-eastern side should have a minimum height.
3. If the wall of the house in the east is high, it stalls the entry of prosperity, the goddess Laxmi, into the house. Therefore, it should be kept low.
4. The southern side of the house should be as high & heavy as possible.
5. In any room of the house a beam or column should not cross the center.
6. The terrace or balcony in the house should be either in the east or the north.
7. A well, a pole or a temple should not exist in front of the main entrance of the house.
8. The slope of the house should be towards the east, the north or the north-east.
9. The main entrance of the house should not be in front of that, of the opposite house.
10. The upper storeys of the house should be constructed on the soutern or the western part.
11. Cupboards in the wall should be in the southern or the western direction of the house.

Auspicious & Inauspicious

A house without a roof or a ceiling, a door or window is considered to be inauspicious.

A house is stated to be inauspicious if a house warming ceremony or vastushanti is not performed.

A house with its entrance in the south is considered to be inauspicious.

A house is considered to be inauspicious if someone has committed suicide in it.

A house situated opposite a place of worship such as a temple or a mosque, is inauspicious.

A house with a cat kept as a pet in it is thought to bee inauspicious.

A house with a cow is auspicious.

It is inauspicious if one faces Agni, as in the stove, cooking gas cylinder & so on, immediately upon entering the house.

A toilet right in front of the house is inauspicious.

Sickness becomes the order of the day if any animal is killed on the land of the house.

If while digging the foundation of the house, water emerges, it is considered to be a bad omen.

A pole in front of the main entrance is considered to be inauspicious.

Stone Flooring

Interior stone floors are common in warm and hot climates due to the ease of maintenance. In cooler climates, new technology is now making stone floors a viable alternative. Read on to find out what kind of stones are suitable for your floor -- both inside and outside.

Types of Stone used for Flooring

Some popular stone flooring options are:

• Sandstone - is extremely durable so a good choice for flooring in medium traffic areas. For indoor use, any finish matt, glossy or satin can be used. Sandstone tiles usually need resealing after every 4-5 years.
• Limestone - the quality of the stone varies. Soft varieties can be used in areas of low traffic. Harder stones may be used in areas of high traffic.
• Slate - Hard varieties of slate are used in outdoor flooring and in areas of medium traffic.
• Marble - usually this is a hard stone. So it can be used in hallways, that is areas of high traffic. It is also suitable for bathroom floors.
• Granite - The hardest stone available, granite can be used in high traffic zones and in kitchens. Polished granite exudes a feeling of opulence and grandeur in a space.
• Terra-cotta - is a man-made stone that has properties similar to natural stone. The process of its creation involves compacting clay and then firing it. This process imbues terra-cotta tiles with properties similar to natural stone. The tiles have color variations that may be used to add to the esthetic appeal of the floor. The surface can be smooth or rough. Patterns and textures can also be created on the surface of the tiles.
• Terrazzo - another man-made stone that is frequently used in floors in high and medium traffic zones.

Installing a Stone Floor

Usually installing a stone floor is quite complicated and requires skilled workers. However, if you are confident about doing it on your own, here are some links to installing a stone floor.

Exterior

Compound wall: The compound is the wall that covers the boundary of the house. The compound wall should of more height and thickness in Southern and Western sides as compared to the Northern and Eastern sides, as it prevents negative energy in house. Light walls in North and East sides are beneficial as they ensure morning rays and proper light in house. This way the South and West sides will also become heavier than the rest which is very auspicious.

Garage: The best place to construct a garage is the north-west and south-east corner, and never in the north-east, north or east portion of the house.

Overhead tanks: Overhead tank for water storage should be placed/constructed in south, west or south-west. However, south-west direction is considered best for an overhead tank according to Vastu. And any kind of underground tank created for storage of water should be in the north-east; it should be noted that an underground tank should never be constructed at the point where north and east directions meet. It should either be in the east or in the west but never in the center.

Underground Reservoir: It should always in the northeast and should never be in southeast or south-west. One should cover the all inner portion of the tank with tiles, preferably of white colour, so as to ensure cleanliness of the tank.

Well / Bore Well / Tube Well: These should be constructed in North - East or eastern sides to bring all round prosperity and new opportunities for growth.

Open space around the building: We have to carefully examine the space given to us around the building and make sure that you are leaving the maximum space in North and East side and less on South and West sides. The construction should never be on the Northern and eastern wall as this violates the basic principle of Vastu. The left area in North should not be less compared to the open area left in the South.

The proportion: The ratio between the length and breadth of the building should be 1:1 or 1:1.5 or maximum up to 1:2. It should never exceed this limit in any circumstance, otherwise it will become a 'long bar' shaped plot and is not at all auspicious.

The Levels: At any level the West, South, South - West sides should be more elevated than the North, North - East and East sides. Basically, the flow of water should always be from the South to North or West to East.

Terrace / Porch / Portico / Balcony: All these should always be located in the North, East or North - East sides of the building to bring the health, wealth and happiness. If one needs to construct balconies in in the southwest, they should be smaller than balconies in the northeast. One can construct an open terrace in the north-east, by constructing major part of the first floor in the southwest.

A Guide To Buying a Land For Residential Purposes

According to Vastu,some plots are more auspicious than other, while some plots are entirely unsuitable for living purpose. Below mentioned are some of the points which one should consider while buying a plot:

1. Barren Land with no sign of greenery.
2. Land on which shadow of temple, towers, temple walls, temple flag post fall.
3. Avoid buying a land with too much wet soil or water seeping from ground.
4. Avoid buying a land near bridges and large buildings.
5. A plot which is narrower in the west or in south, in comparison to the north and east portion, is not good.
6. Land with many cracks in the soil/ground is not good for living.
7. Presence of bones and coal in the land is not good.
8. Land which previously, in any time, belonged to any temple or charitable trust etc.
9. A plot which is very much raised in comparison to it's surroundings.