What an awesome summer it is turning out to be! This summer has proved particularly windy and hot. It has lead to much discussion in the office about how we design for all seasons. Good design is more than just looking pretty - we need to respond to the specific conditions that are in place for every individual site. The first task we undertake in the design process is a site assessment. It is important to understand the rise and fall of the sun across the section, the prevai

Burning the candle at both ends? Restful spaces are so important in today’s fast paced, work hard - play hard world. We often have to make a concerted effort to slow down and take time to relax. Creating a living environment with calming spaces helps make recharging an easier and less time-consuming process. Your environment can have a huge impact on your happiness and wellbeing. The mind picks up on triggers, it may not react to them instantly, but it does store them, increa

Renovating or building a new house can and should be fun and exciting - for everyone involved. However far too often we hear horror stories of clients feeling they have not been heard. Misunderstandings between the builder, the client and the architect about the scope of a project and how much was allowed for it in the building contract can lead directly disappointment, disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the project. Writing a brief will help you avoid this scenario. T

We LOVE a good pergola at VRA and include them wherever we can. A pergola is a transition space between the outside and the inside—providing

Want to avoid costly mistakes? & questions to ask to ensure you get the designer who is right for you.