Blog

The piano has been a part of my life since I was four years old. I love playing it. When I get to focus on playing, I find myself in a place of peace and hope. The manipulation of the keys, the crescendo and decrescendo, each pause, chord and scale are so rich and meaningful. Even a 1/16 rest serves a purpose in the music. This is true for the piano, too. While the elements...Read More

It is important to set a realistic fee before committing to a certain design and especially before starting construction. There are three general categories of fees that you will need to be aware of.  The amount and requirements vary, depending on the scope of work of the project.  The larger the scope, the more fee it will involve. The three categories are as follows:   City Fees:Planning Department Design Review Building Department Plan Check Building...Read More

PROJECT SCHEDULE To take a project from an idea to become your dream home requires proper planning, clear communication, and well thought out design that meets the goals for your home, as well as complying to codes and regulations.  To achieve the most desirable outcome and have fun along the way, it is important to take proper steps to make sure we make well-informed decisions before going to the next phase.  A typical residential project...Read More

When I introduce Silver Elm Studio at various networking functions, I am often asked why I decided to start my own business, and why I have chosen architecture as a career.  The shorter version of a long story is that after a few seasons of work, much soul searching, and self actualization work, I came to accept that, first of all I enjoy and  am good at designing homes. Second, I enjoy working directly with...Read More