The Science of Design

“When you stop learning, stop listening, stop looking and asking questions,

always new questions, then it is time to die.”

Lillian Smith (American Writer 1897-1966)

Yesterday I had a meeting with a local independent architect to discuss some of the details pertaining to the Ranch House project I'm working on. He is helping by providing his expert advice and opinions regarding the unique site conditions and overall building structure.  

One of the main challenges for this project is the site location of the new building. There are some existing environmental implications, outstanding functionality questions, and financial considerations that are greatly affecting the building's placement, all limiting us differently in each location.

Although the general purpose of the meeting was to gain information for this particular project, which I did; I feel like I should share one of the unique techniques I learned during our time together as he was mentoring me. We were discussing the positives and negatives of the site orientation and he introduced a very cool new tool called a sun rose.

 

Image courtesy of: http://www.solosol.net/sun_path_calculator.html

 

This tool, which I recognized from my college astronomy notes, helps understand how to position the building in such a way so that you can utilize the natural path of the sun to provide ample lighting, particularily sunlight, into the architectural environment. UREKA!

 

How to use a Sun Rose: Orient the diagram "N" on the site plan's North, so that all corresponding directions are lined up. Depending on the specific latitude location of your site, the sun rises and sets at different degrees in the sky during the summer and winter solistice. You can then determine how to place your structure, windows, doors, etc. and somewhat control the natural light input and output.

 

Want to read more on this topic?

Check out this book by architect William C. Lam

Desire to Inspire

Since I'm knee deep in the private ranch project, I thought I'd share with you my inspiration board that I created during the schematic design phase.

As a designer, you have the great responsibility of how you affect the built environment. The spaces you create have the power (yes, power!) to not only be functional, but can enhance the quality of life and culture of its occupants. Curious as to the actual definition of an interior designer? Check this out!

So, not only do designers develop a particular style custom to the client and design solution, but those decisions can have a huge impact on the overall success of the space.

For this project, here is what I have in mind:

Rustic, Humble, Comfortable, Efficient, Unique, Masculine, Bold, Durable

1. fabulous found Kilim rugs by pottery barn

2. dark patina bin pull by rocky mountain hardware

3. getting creative with ceiling tiles

4. inviting rustic table and chair

5. don't mess with texas, longhorn cabinet pull by anne at home

6. unique bathroom vanity and sink, thanks to bearfort lodge

7. rust colored pulley pendant light fixture

8. putting the fun in organized, cute pantry storage

9. getting twiggy with it, branch chandelier fixture

10. who wouldn't want this beautiful handpainted buffet?

11. hi casual, i'm elegance. thanks to google images 

Crush on Texas

Last week for work, I traveled down to a little town in southwest Texas called Rocksprings. One of our residential clients has the most beautiful 3100 acre hunting lease just outside the city. I was surprised as to how drastic the landscape changed throughout our travels. You know you've arrived when you see the freckled rocky terrain, grazing goats, and huge rolling hills.

The purpose of this trip was to document the site conditions of their existing residence in order to prepare for their new Mess Hall addition that we are constructing and project managing during the summer. More specifically, we will also be designing all the custom furniture and millwork for the new space. Don't worry, I will constantly update on the status of this exciting project!

Here are some photos I took...they don't do it justice.

An old rusted oil pump in the sunset

On up the road

 

A catapillar's view of an old cattle shoot

Getting confrontational with a cactus

Outside looking in

Worn Out Knob

View from the Front Porch- Large Axis Deer