Robert Mech
Architecture, Ask a Designer
What Different Line Types in Architecture & Design Drawings Mean
Thick lines, thin lines, lines with short or long dashes (or both!) — if you don’t speak the language of all these line types, an architecture or design drawing can be pretty mystifying. This primer on design drawing linework will give you a starter toolkit so you can tell what you’re looking at.
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Ask a Designer, Custom Residential
How To Know If Your Contractor is Doing a Good Job
As much as we may want it to be, nothing is perfect. Whether remodeling or building new, and regardless of how well-recommended your contractor is, unknown challenges will arise with your project. But, this is a navigable process, especially if you keep these tips in mind.
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Ask a Designer, Sustainable Practice
To Buy or Not to Buy those LED Bulbs
Are you still hoarding a few old incandescent bulbs thinking it will save you money to just use what you've already purchased? It won't! But why? Let us lay it all out for you, and show you why it's time to bite the bullet and move to new solutions, like the LED.
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Arts & Culture, Historic & Traditional
Look up! Architectural Terracotta Everywhere
Ever been walking along 3rd Avenue in downtown Seattle and happen to look up and see a bunch of walruses staring back down at you, complete with tusks the size of your head? Seattle is home to many great examples of architectural terracotta, and Robert Mech is here to tell you all about it.
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Arts & Culture, Historic & Traditional
“Off The Hook” – The Etymology of Your Phone Number
Did you know that the digits of your phone number actually have a history linking them to letters? Or, that the concept of “dialing” a phone came way later than the phone itself? Robert Mech explores all this and more in this post about phones, and he most certainly did not “phone it in.”
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Arts & Culture
Music and Architecture
What do buildings sound like? We don't mean literally; we don't mean acoustics. Robert explores what it would mean if architectural wonders, or even just the most basic of buildings, were translated to music.
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If you enjoy reading our blog as much as we enjoy writing it, that just makes our day! You might also enjoy a few of the related posts below. And, if there is a topic that you wish we would cover, let us know!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Navigating Updates to Historic Homes
Are you curious about updating your landmarked home, or your home within a historic district? What kinds of considerations do you need to keep in mind? Is there anything you can’t do? What about things you have to do? These questions might seem overwhelming, but don't worry! We’re here to help.
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