Tips

“When we build, let us think that we build forever.” John Ruskin The Pacific Northwest inspires. Beauty exists at every turn. Dramatic peaks, alpine meadows, expansive forests, and teaming waters create a scene of endless intrigue. And for the Pacific Northwest native, “home” should embrace all of it. Taking cues from natural surroundings is a …

When choosing to build a custom home, there’s a general assumption that the cost will be similar to that of the current “comparable” market listings. People often expect a slightly higher cost due to the project’s custom nature, but few realize just how pronounced that difference can be. As a result, many people are surprised …

When it comes to that first meeting with an architect, there are a number of crucial steps you should be taking in preparation for it. By following these five, you’ll find yourself much better equipped to create your dream custom home. 1 | Find a Local Architect As members of a digital age, it is …

Great staircases exist for more than mere function. They’re a statement, an expression of style. They require space in prominent areas of your home, after all, so they should be beautiful. Here’s a collection of our favorite staircase designs to inspire you: Classic Charm Classic on the Green‘s elegant staircase wraps squarely around the entryway. …

As artists and architects, Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl Architecture cherishes age-old design principles that guide us in our art, whether it’s a traditional gothic estate or a contemporary family home. These architectural design principles enable us to create livable spaces that never grow old. Scale and proportion are among the most important tools we use when …

Stunning scenery graces so much of the Pacific Northwest, and natural beauty is a splendid asset to the design of any home. Even on the rainiest of days, rich home design unites the refuge of home with the wonder of the outdoors. We’ve collected several of our favorite architecture tips to help you take advantage …

In the world of custom home building and ownership, obstacles are almost a given. If this were not so, there wouldn’t be an entire television channel devoted to home remodels! But the Bellevue architecture firm Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl embraces design challenges and creates opportunities for artistry. Steve Jobs once said that “design is not just …

When we sit down with our clients and begin sketching out their custom architecture design, we invite them to bring in their inspirations—the magazine clippings, webpages, and Pinterest boards they’ve saved up in their dreaming. We’ve put together a few design resources to help you flesh out your dream house. Browse Houzz Houzz is a …

With advancements in technology making it ever easier to work remotely, an increasing number of professionals are taking advantage of the ability to work from home. Yet working from home presents its own unique challenges. Professionals still need a dedicated, distraction free space to focus and be productive. We’ve gathered a few of our favorite …

So you want to build a house. We get it. It’s a daunting process, especially when you don’t have an ally. So how do you get started? You often hear stories about what can go wrong, how expensive a project can become, and how long it takes. You may wonder what it’s like to work …