At first glance, architectural blueprints and quilt blocks don’t have much in common. One lives on tracing paper, the other on a sewing table. But the more time you spend with both, the more the...
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Welcome to the hpd architecture + interiors blog. You’ll find the latest blog articles here on topics such as, architectural advice, home decor and maintenance, architectural interest, and architecture as a profession.
Ghosts or Just Outdated Design? Haunted House Myths Debunked by Architects
(Hint: Those eerie noises usually have a practical explanation.) Every October, talk turns to haunted houses—the flickering lights, eerie drafts, mysterious creaks, and ghostly noises that make your...
Restoring the Historic Young House at Heritage Farmstead Museum
This is the story of a little house that could have easily been lost to urban progress—but thanks to the tenacity of one woman, Gladys Young, the house lived on. The nearly-forgotten, modest pioneer...
Historic Home Restoration – Working Within The Rules
Planning a home addition may sound daunting but this guide for homeowners will walk you through the process step by step.
“Are We Done Yet?” What Substantial Completion Really Means
What does substantial completion mean and what is a punch list? All you need to know about a substantial completion walkthrough.
How to Begin Planning a Home Addition: A Guide for Homeowners
Planning a home addition may sound daunting but this guide for homeowners will walk you through the process step by step.
Designing a Fire-Resistant Home: Materials and Strategies
If you're building a new home or remodeling your current one, fire resistance may not be the first thing on your mind—but it should be. Wildfires and accidental fires can spread quickly, and the...
Is Your Home Ready for a Change?
Your home needs a change but does it need a renovation or a remodel? Alternatively remediation may be in order or a sensitive restoration because you have a historic house.
The Importance of Indoor Air Quality in Your Home
While I sit here in a tire showroom with a headache from the smell of rubber, I’m reminded of how powerful—and sometimes harmful—the air we breathe can be. Think about the strong fragrances in a...
Navigating Construction Contracts: Advice for Homeowners
Starting a home renovation or new home build project is exciting, but it comes with its share of challenges. The contract between you and your contractor is a critical document that sets the stage...
17 Steps to Transform Your Home from Traditional to Contemporary
Have you ever asked yourself any of the following questions: How can I make my house look more modern? How can I update my traditional home? How can I incorporate contemporary home design into my...
Tips for Aging in Place Remodeling
Most people want to live in their homes for as long as possible. Unfortunately, many existing homes and new residential construction designs do not account for the unique needs and safety...
Obtaining Building Permits From the City Permit Office
Obtaining building permits through the City Permit Office can be a frustrating experience. These tips will help the process go smoothly.
Lightweight, Convertible, and Modular Furniture
Choosing lightweight, convertible, or modular furniture gives you a lot more flexibility in organizing your living space.
Architecture on the Road
Every building and street tells its own story so taking in some architecture on the road will enrich any trip.
Building a Modular Home
Find the second installment of our series on building a modular home,as we get updates on progress and developments.