New Rules Mean Adding an ADU to Your California Home is Easier Than Ever
Accessory Dwelling Units or ADUs may seem like a very new and different type of housing, but the term ADU actually refers only to the home’s legal status, not its physical characteristics. Small houses and apartments, whether called Granny units, In-law suites, cottages, Tiny Homes or just studios, have existed as long as there have […]
Formed by the Land
Just north of San Francisco, a long-vacant lot was defined by a V-shaped, natural drainage swale through its center, effectively dividing the land in half. The site’s natural topography simultaneously presented a challenge and an incredible opportunity for a unique modern home build with an amazing view of Mt. Tamalpais and nearby hillsides. From the […]
DNM Architecture is Part of the 2030 AIA Commitment.
Becoming a 2030 signatory is a commitment to addressing one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century and becoming a leader in fighting climate change. According to AIA surveys, 2030 signatories are more likely to value energy efficiency and to use energy modeling than other architects. We are also more likely than their peers […]
Views From A Sonoma Hillside
David was a dream to work with. He really listened to our descriptions of what we wanted including a modern aesthetic. We went through multiple iterations, during which his facility with CAD architecture software was very helpful along with his other skills. We interviewed 3 architects including David. One thing his references all said, which […]
Portfolio, Perspective, and Process
I attended a lunchtime seminar about firm marketing sponsored by the AIA a couple of months ago and learned something! But, that’s not the only news. The presenter – an apparently successful marketing consultant for professional service companies in the northwest – made the pretty basic point that an architect’s project portfolio is not the […]
What Is Architecture?
Profound, cynical or silly, it is relevant to me; perhaps it will be for you as well. It is in no particular order and I add to it from time to time. -DNM Architecture: the art of building in which human requirements and construction materials are related so as to furnish practical use as well […]
Potential in Palm Springs
This gorgeous, albeit currently unbuilt, DNM Architecture-designed home recalls the beauty of 1950’s Desert Modern style and brings it to the 21st century with better design sustainability and higher energy efficiency. Originally designed for a technology executive, the 4,500 square foot custom home was meant to live at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in […]
The Value of an Architect
Through education, training and experience, an architect is the one professional person who is equipped to guide you through the design, permitting and construction of a building or renovation project. Unlike other specialized professionals (that may also be needed) such as structural engineers, mechanical engineers, geotechnical engineers, an architect is trained to be a generalist, […]
Mid-Century Modernized
When Lise and Vincent decided to move on from the successful vineyard and 5,600 square foot home in Sonoma, they felt it was time to downsize and move closer to the city. When they started house shopping, unlike many prospective homebuyers, they intentionally sought out a renovation project – specifically, a Mid-Century Modern home that […]
Distinguishing Profession From Business
Recently, I was reminded of a good article by Richard Farson, a former AIA Public Director, from arcCA, the journal of the AIA California Council. The paragraph that resonated most with me – and should with any professional – is (emphasis is mine): “(The AIA) has to make a distinction as to whether architecture is […]