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Sustainable Practice

The Tradeoffs: There is No All-or-Nothing for Sustainable Practice

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for sustainable practice. We know that having an all-or-nothing mentality can leave people stuck without knowing which facet of sustainable design they should focus on. Meeting you where you’re at lets us guide you through the right options for your project needs, budget, and aesthetic goals.

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Sustainable Practice

The New Normal: A More Sustainable Starting Line

When some people hear ”the new normal,“ they feel resigned or discouraged. For sustainable practices, though, we think the new normal is a good thing — an exciting and inspiring opportunity to reflect on the past, consider the more sustainable starting line of the present, and look forward to where we’re going.

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Architecture, DADUs & Accessory Structures, Multifamily Residential

Why We Need Middle Housing

Middle Housing has become a major buzzword in cities and towns around the country to increase access to affordable housing. So why is middle housing such an important part of the solution? Here, we break down some potential benefits of middle housing and Washington State’s HB1110, or Middle Housing Bill.

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Architecture, Ask a Designer, Multifamily Residential

The Middle Housing Bill FAQ

Washington State’s HB1110 — also called the Middle Housing Bill — is setting the stage for big changes to code and zoning in Seattle. But what is middle housing? And what is the “missing middle” HB1110 seeks to fill? You have questions and we have answers based on our best, current understanding of this landmark legislation.

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Backyard Artist Studio – Board & Vellum
16x9-backyard_artist_studio-exterior-view_1-day

Backyard Artist Studio | Photo by Meghan Montgomery

Landscape Architecture, Sustainable Practice

Environmentally Responsible Landscape Design

Being a good partner to the planet often begins right at home. If you’re curious about ways you can integrate sustainable design into your yard, garden, and other outdoor areas, there are many options! It’s an excellent place to start thinking about environmentally responsible landscape design.

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Backyard Artist Studio – Board & Vellum
Layering of Space

The backyard oasis is comprised of layered spaces and programs — framed by the new garage and studio, and the main house. Backyard Artist Studio | Photo by Meghan Montgomery

Custom Residential, Landscape Architecture

Using Drones for Site Planning

You’ve probably heard of drone technology — but did you know it can be an effective tool for design projects? We’re breaking down all the ways drone technology can improve your project, create efficiencies, and help you collaborate with your design team.

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Architecture, Sustainable Practice

Straw Bale Construction FAQ

Have you ever heard of straw bale construction? It’s a form of building construction where bales of straw are stacked within a timber frame to insulate the walls. Not only is this a sustainable building method, it’s just plain cool. If you’e curious to know more, check out these frequently asked questions.

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Architecture, Ask a Designer, Custom Residential

Do I Need a Feasibility Study?

A lot of questions come up when you embark on a design project. A lot of questions come up before embarking on a design project! A feasibility study, especially for complex or potentially complicated sites or projects, might be just what you need to kick off a successful project.

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Architecture, Custom Residential, Interior Design

Fireplace Options For Your Home

If you’re considering adding a fireplace to your home or restoring an existing fireplace, the options may seem overwhelming. There are many things to consider, like aesthetic goals, ambiance, and sustainability. Luckily, we've assembled this essential guide on fireplaces to help you decide what’s right for you.

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Or, if chronology isn’t your thing…

Here are a couple of posts to get you started. Of course, it’s hard to choose, so feel free to poke around; we hope to have a little something for everyone. And, if you have a burning question you’d like us to cover in a future post, please let us know!

Questions to ask an architect at an interview. – Board & Vellum

Questions to Ask an Architect in an Interview: Advice for Clients

What should you ask a designer you are interviewing for your project? A good personality fit helps, but to help you hire with confidence, here are ten questions worth asking.

Questions to Ask a Landscape Architect or Site Design Team in an Interview – Board & Vellum

Questions to Ask a Landscape Architect or Site Design Team in an Interview

What should you ask a landscape architect you are interviewing? From design to fee, to timeline and more, here are ten questions you should ask before you hire.

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Board & Vellum receives Just label from the International Living Future Institute, a voluntary reporting tool for social justice and equity indicators in the workplace.

Achieved a Just label from the International Living Future Institute in 2023.

Board & Vellum is honored to be a Gray Awards Finalist for landscape design, earning the recognition for the rooftop garden at the Lucille on Roosevelt.

Honored as a finalist for residential landscape design.

LEED Certified in White

Our team includes LEED-accredited professionals.

Certified Passive House Consultant in White

Our team includes certified Passive House consultants.

NGLCC Certified as LGBT Business Enterprise – Board & Vellum Recognition

A Certified LGBT Business Enterprise Since 2016.

PSBJ’s Top 25 LGBTQ-Owned Businesses 2016 in White

Honoring companies that lead in promoting equality.