creative decentralization

January 2017 Newsletter View this email in your browser a different perspective: our clients' take on their home remodeling In the two previous editions, we discussed the structural design, the craft of building as well as the management and scheduling of special trades in a unique residential project in San Francisco. Hope you will enjoy this unfolding as we bring you to the very beginning (the conceptual stage) and find out what were the needs and desires that helped shape this project. For this edition, we are super excited that we get to sit down with our clients Lee Byron and Ash Huang and hear their take on this year-long experience. creative decentralization It is not often that someone would tell you he decided to buy a house because of the basement. Lee and Ash recall having looked at many properties. When they came upon this one in Bernal Heights, they recognized the value of the fantastic location and the views, and sort of ignored the 'builder's grade' finishes of the interior. But what really clinched the deal was the potential they saw in the barely finished space at the bottom level of this four-story building. Being creative and tech savvy (he works at Facebook and she is an independent artist), the couple wished to have a spacious in-home studio where they could engage in a variety of digital and analog works. So, they asked a contractor friend to inspect the property and assure them that their remodeling plans were realistic. Originally, one had to go down a flight of stairs from the main level, pass the small laundry area, and double-back to the back of the garage to enter an in-law space, then go down another narrow set of stairs to access the lowest level which is connected to the back patio through a small door. That explains why they had never gone down there during the first year after they moved in, except when they gave a tour to their friends. So, when building Lab's designers suggested flipping all the stairs to the opposite directions to improve the flow up and down to different levels , Lee and Ash jumped at the chance of radically transforming the building. The result is an open interior with distinct and yet connected spaces spreading through all four floors. Tailor made for a young professional couple's lifestyle, the house serves multiple functions as dwelling, work stations, artist studio, as well as entertaining venue. Elegant sets of stairs become the star features that seem to enable the burring of the boundaries between work, play, and relaxation. what happens to that basement? According to Lee and Ash, everything seemed to have fallen into place after the stairs were flipped. A portion of the original extra wide garage has been coopted as a new hallway that provides access to the laundry, a half bath, and a closet. The floor of the original in-law space is cut back from the exterior wall and the entire mezzanine is suspended from the ceiling with a steel rod. This technical feat allows the bottom level to be clean and without structural obstruction, and the entire back wall to be filled with glass windows and sliding doors. A custom built work top along the full length of the mezzanine is fitted with all the techie bells and whistles. Ash expresses much delight when she tells us she is really happy to have a real desk. Working from home, she does all of her digital stuff at this level, overlooking this dramatic space with a two-story wall of glass. The lowest level is where she does her physical studio art. She has her tools, books, and samples strewn all over the concrete floor. From this level, 10' high NanaWall® folding glass doors (inspired by similar setup at the Facebook headquarters) open up the entire space to the outdoor patio. Simple planting and seating, a custom fire pit, and strings of lights complete the picture for easy al fresco entertaining. Looking back up, the suspended floor above with the minimalist glass railing seems to have a dialog with the sleek dark wood stairs gracefully flowing down to earth. For both Lee and Ash, this realm below street level is obviously their pride and joy. They feel it has turned out exactly as they had imagined it, truly a dream came true. Stay tuned to hear about other favorite parts of the house, and Lee and Ash's tips for homeowners who are planning a remodel. lee and ash with nuri Lee is a design engineer. He joined Facebook eight years ago and is responsible for designing some of their coolest apps. He credits his aesthetic sensibilities to having an architect mother. He has to travel quite a bit, working and coordinating with engineers at many different locations all over the world. He says that with this new house, he wishes to stay put more often. Ash is a writer and artist. She has done product design and brand work for Pinterest, Twitter, and Dropbox. Her essays have been featured in Fast Company, Offscreen Magazine and Lean Out. Her first novel, The Firesteel, won First Place for literary fiction in the 3rd Annual Writer's Digest Self-published e-book Awards. Photo captions L - R  Profile image: a mile-long desk floating above the mezzanine floor 1. Before: existing garage   2. Before: existing in-law space 3. Before: small door to the patio at the lowest level   4. New stairs to the bedroom level 5. New stairs from mezzanine to main floor and bedroom level   6. Mezzanine   7. Artist space at lowest level   8. View from patio  Presentation photos by Scott Hargis Photography bL welcomes evan bowman to our design team a bold art piece sets the tone for a master bath Click here to read an article on Remodeling Magazine. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend

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happy 2017!

December 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser Several years ago, my sister and her partner, both avid art collectors, introduced me to what's often referred to as 'outsider art,' created by artists living with mental, developmental, or physical disabilities. Here in Oakland, Creative Growth Art Center is an incubator of sorts for such artists. The Center, the people who run it and especially the artists are truly inspirational. As we take a moment at year's end to express our thanks to our clients and associates, we wish to share this inspiration with you.   May we all enter the new year with the same sense of whimsy, rigor and awe that we see in Ed Walter's piece below. Gratefully,  Stephen This image of an untitled piece by Ed Walters is generously provided by Creative Growth Art Center in Oakland. It serves artists with developmental, mental and physical disabilities, providing a professional studio environment for artistic development, gallery exhibition and representation and a social atmosphere among peers. EDWARD WALTERS BORN: 1958 EDUCATION: Creative Growth Art Center, 2000-present; Berkeley High, Martin Luther King Junior High School Edward is an architect of space in his art. Modular and geometric forms reminiscent of skyscrapers present like a Bauhaus metropolis, handily realized through Edward’s affinity for rulers and stencils. His latest work incorporates letter templates, using the stencil to piece together original maxims like, “Say In Your Office” or “Creative Need To Leave Me Alone”. What began as colorful typographic drawings have since expanded into three-dimensional wooden signs that appear perfunctory and instructional; however, upon closer examination they too read like a mismatched phrase with a wry sense of humor. SELECTED EXHIBITIONS: 2015 Outsider Art Fair, New York Art Fair Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan Extra Celestial, Crosstown Arts, Memphis portfolio: http://creativegrowth.org/artists/edward-walters/ Ed was selected for this year's first print edition collaboration with SF's Park Life, which can be purchased at the Creative Growth Art Center shop or online. More original pieces of Ed's will be on view at the next iteration of the series of shows produced by Creative Growth at 836m gallery in SF. All shows are open to the public and Ed's works are available for sale starting Dec. 19.  If you like to make a donation to support this amazing organization, you can mail a check to Catherine Nguyen Gallery Manager Creative Growth Art Center 355 - 24th Street Oakland, CA 94612 or you can donate online your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. 2016 grand award winner  click here to see interview of stephen by remodeling design magazine share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

stairway to heaven

November 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser the building arm of a design-build firm For everyone who works at building Lab, 'building X design' is more than just a marketing soundbite. We take pride in being able to deliver a seamless process from concept sketches to construction details driven by our interest in modern design. If you are an architecture fan, you probably already know that the cleaner and simpler it looks, the more complicated and time-consuming it is to achieve it. Just like the efforts required in creating that perfect moment in a stage performance, our behind-the-scene work involves both the vision and millions of artistic and technical decisions. To shed some light on this mystery, we turn to our long-time lead carpenter Marciel Dornelio who has tackled some of our most challenging projects. stairway to heaven In a radical remodel of a multi-story residence in a narrow hillside lot in San Francisco, flights of stairs form a spine that connects all four levels of living spaces . The original staircase to the upper floor was located at only a few feet from the street level front entrance. Behind this was another flight of stairs that went down to the basement. All of these were removed and the new stairways were flipped to the opposite directions. The new layout allows a viewer to enter slowly into the home, pausing at the entry foyer a bit, passing a guest room and bath on the left, while encountering a smooth and shiny stairway flying upstairs on the right, and arriving at a threshold where one can either stroll into the open living area, or turn to go up to the second level bedroom floor, or down to the mezzanine and garden level.  In our September issue, engineer Nate Williams described how this marvelous floating stairway was designed. Marciel explains that he and his team was responsible for crafting the new treads to match the existing Brazilian Cherry floors. He also coordinated the scheduling and assisted in the proceedings of different special trades who fabricated the parts. Bob's Iron made all of the steel elements. After their crew assembled the stringer plates and the suspension rod, they had to leave the assembly loosely bolted. Then, Marciel and his team had to take off the outside plate, helped inserting the glass railing and gaskets (with precut slots to accommodate the bolts) inside and re-positioned the plates and tightly bolted the whole assembly. For a final touch, a 1" strip of black painted wood was inserted in front of the steel rod and also along the underside to cover the gap.  celebrating the thresholds Besides the irresistible stairs that compel one to go exploring up and down this house, Marciel wants to point out other special features that celebrate transitions from the public to the private realms. As the viewer heads upstairs from the main level, he will be facing the street side of the house. When he turns and approaches the master suite, he will pass a guest bath and a guest bedroom, both simply and elegantly furnished. An oversized pivot door is swung completely open to greet him. The door is bolted down to a receiver on the floor (with a wood cover plate stained the same color as the floor) and it can be swung open in both directions. Marciel explains that much care was taken to ensure the walls, the floor, and the ceiling were perfectly aligned. When the door is closed, it looks like this part of the corridor is magically sealed with no visible gaps. Next is a small foyer where one can enter the master bath on the left, or enter the master bedroom on the right. Guarding the latter is another floor-to-ceiling door: a sliding one mounted on a special track that offers soft close at both ends. That means you can push the door real fast, and it still closes gracefully without slamming into the wall.  where materials interact and trades intersect When dealing with a remodeling project, homeowners sometimes wonder if the hardwood floor should be installed before the walls and baseboards. And what about painting? It's a mystery how different building trades can be orchestrated without one's work destroying another's. Here, at this entry to the master bath, Marciel reveals to us how things were put together. First, they had to make sure all the sub-floors were prepared such that the tiles and wood floorboards would make an even surface. Then, the wood floor was installed with the floorboards left extending into the bathroom. The area near the border was sanded. At the same time, the pale grey hexagonal tiles were installed. At the border, the hexagons were placed on top of the floorboards and their outlines were traced onto the wood. The floorboards were cut in place to make a perfect match.  In the rest of the room, sheetrock was nailed with a 3" gap from the floor. The floorboards were installed and a 6" border around the perimeter of the room was sanded. After our trademark invisible baseboard (flush with the wall) was put in place and plastered smooth, the whole floor was then sanded. At this time, only a light bluffing was needed in the area close to the baseboard and the tile floor. The floor was then finished with multiple coats and the walls were painted last.  the man from brazil! Marciel moved to the Bay area from a small town in Brazil twelve years ago when he was only eighteen. After a stint in demolition work, he met Stephen and has been working for bL ever since. Marciel remembers fondly that in the early days, Stephen trained him in carpentry mostly with hand gestures and sketching since his English was not proficient. Marciel would get up at 5am every day to get ready. Stephen would show up in his pickup truck with his dog and the two would head to the lumber yard and then the job site. Being a quick and enthusiastic learner, Marciel always finished everything well at the end of the work day. Working from the ground up literally, Marciel did everything from shoveling, hammering and nailing, and eventually leading a whole field crew. He is getting married this December in Brazil. Non-stop partying is being promised and you are all invited! Photo captions L - R  Profile image: Stair railing detail  1. Floating stairs   2. Looking down to main level landing and lower levels  3. Steel plate stringers, suspending steel rod, and glass railing   4. Underside of stairs showing metal tread supports 5. Pivot door   6. Sliding door at master suite  7. Entry to master bath   8. Brazilian Cherry flooring and invisible baseboard  Profile, #1 and #2 by Scott Hargis Photography your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. a bold art piece sets the tone for a master bath Click here to read an article on Remodeling Magazine. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

cool structures

September 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser cool structures and hot designs As you may already know, the building Lab team does not shy away from geeky details. In fact, we embrace every opportunity for pushing the envelope both aesthetically and structurally when it fulfills the client's wishes and needs. From serious excavations and foundation works, to seemingly impossible cantilevers, floating stairs, and wall-to-wall glass, we relish the design and construction with much enthusiasm and glee. Certainly, we do have a secret weapon: in the person of structural engineer Nate Williams. In this issue, Nate takes time off from his busy schedule to chat with us at his Berkeley office. what does a structural engineer do? The short answer: "I make sure buildings stand up, or more importantly, don't fall down." Nate and his colleagues at Mosswood Engineering take the architectural plans and create a set of structural plans which delineate the bones of the building, sort of like x-ray images. They usually include the foundation, framing (columns, beams and joists which support floors and walls), and the lateral system. The lateral system is important in California as it deals with shear walls which resist earthquakes, and in other parts of the country, hurricanes. stairs that not quite touch the floor? In a dramatic remodel of a San Francisco residence, glass railing grows out of two steel plate stringers, and the whole set of stairs hovers a few inches above the landing. On the outside (facing the corridor), the smooth metal face of the stringer shows no signs of any fasteners. This effect is achieved by threading the pre-welded studs of the outside plate through the inside plate and angle tread supports (with pre-drilled holes). With the glass panel sandwiched in the center, the two identical plate stringers are fastened together tightly with nuts on the inside face (facing the wall). Near the bottom end of the stairs, a steel rod (welded to the inside steel stringer) suspends the whole ensemble from the joists of the floor above. Stay tuned for the photos of the finished stairs. You will see all the fasteners and supports disappear under the hardwood treads. mezzanine suspended from the ceiling! Another interesting feature in this project is found at the lower mezzanine. Instead of being supported with a column below, one corner of the floor is suspended from the ceiling. The above drawing shows how a steel rod is attached to the joists above with a special metal holdown and secured to the floor beam below with a nut, steel plate washer, and countersink. Again, a continuous steel plate with welded thread rods is attached to each side of the floor structure to secure the glass railing. The mezzanine and the garden level (bottom) in this multi-storied residence are characterized by ample ceiling heights and shallow depths. By eliminating visual distractions such as columns, the overall space feels cleaner and more expansive. expand design possibilities or rein in wild schemes? "In California, residential building designers are allowed to do remodels according to what are laid out in the code. Since the code is really restrictive, design possibilities may appear rather limited. With the help of a structural engineer, it is possible to obtain permits for unconventional features: extra large open space with beams supporting the joists; or long expanse of glass from wall to wall." We have exactly such a case at the garden level of this residence where a two-story-high wall is composed with fixed glass windows and glass sliders that open out to the patio. Nate has designed a custom fabricated moment frame (for earthquake resistance) consisted of steel columns and beams welded together on site. There is a double height glass expanse on the side and a wood beam between window systems in the middle to allow for the glass sliders (see drawings above). Nate believes that almost any designs can be built nowadays. Most of the time, it is a matter of cost. He can advise on a solution which can achieve the desired effects and still work within the budget. In the case of the aforementioned custom moment frame, it is rather expensive. But it suits the situation better and allows for more flexibility. mosswood engineering Nate Williams has been working as an engineer in the Bay Area since 1998. His experience in existing wood construction makes him familiar with local building practices and adept at combining new with existing designs. He started his business in 2006 under his own name and rebranded as Mosswood Engineering in 2010. The name comes from a local park where he often practices personal balance and equilibrium as a proficient juggler and slackliner. Photo captions: L-R Profile photo: steel moment frame for a two-story-high space  1,2,3,4.   details and construction photos of hanging stairs  5.            details of suspended mezzanine floor 6, 7.        field crews attaching steel plate to floor structure 8,9.         details of steel moment frame your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. remodeling design award Click here to see an interview of Stephen Shoup by Remodeling Magazine. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

hardwood flooring

August 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser hardwood flooring: a warm backdrop for your cool furniture Together with the wall treatment, the material and finish you select for your flooring can affect the overall quality of your space greatly. While there are endless choices of flooring materials in the market, hardwood remains a perpetual favorite in residential remodels. Among its many advantages, it is often chosen for its resiliency, warm touch, and its ability to match with existing floors seamlessly. For the design-conscious, hardwood can be transformed into different personalities with the latest finishes and techniques. To learn more, we turn to Or Dobrin and Mark Whatley of Amber Flooring. two main types of wood flooring Or, owner and manager of the firm, starts with showing me 2 samples: one is a 3/4" thick piece of solid wood flooring , another is an 1/2" engineered wood plank. He explains that a traditional solid hardwood floor is usually made with solid wood pieces 2 1/2" wide and 3/4" thick, with tongue and groove sides. Other thinner gages such as 1/2" or 5/16" are also available. Despite its being a solid piece of wood, only the top 1/4" of the board is really useful (available for re-sanding multiple times.) You cannot sand the wood down below the groove. In the East and West Coasts, where there are older traditional buildings, narrower solid strips (2" wide by 5/16" thick, attached to the sub-floor with top nails) are popular. In this type of flooring, about half of its thickness is useful, capable of being re-sanded four to five times in its life. Another type of flooring that is gaining popularity is called engineered hardwood flooring. It is constructed with a hardwood veneer (ranges from paper thin, to 1/8" and 1/4" thick) laminated with multiple sheets of plywood laid in opposite directions. This "cross-ply" construction makes a hardwood floor that is more dimensionally stable and is less affected by temperature and humidity variations when compared to traditional solid wood floors. Engineered wood floors are very versatile; they can be installed in almost any interior conditions, including below grade, and on top of concrete slabs. They also come in a wide variety of widths and thicknesses, making a custom look possible. installation and finishes Mark, project manager and certified inspector, has worked on many highly refined projects with building Lab. In this type of custom work, unfinished hardwood strips or planks are first installed, then sanded smooth by using a drum sander (from rough to fine grits). An edger is used for the borders. Finally the surfaces are brought together into one consistent whole by using a buffer. Depending on the design, stain can be brushed or mopped on, and then three coats of clear finish are applied on top. He explains that the resistance to scratches and dents depends on both the hardness of the wood specie and on the finish. As examples, he points out that sand and grits on the shoe can scratch the finish, while a pebble embedded in the sole can dent the wood, and also scratch the finish as the foot drags it out of the dent. Obviously, spiky heels can easily dent the wood. In terms of finishes, there are two main kinds in the market: oil-based polyurethane and the newer water-based urethane. Traditional poly has a rich amber color and is often selected to match existing flooring. Many clients with modern interiors prefer Bona® (a leading water-based finish) for its clean natural look that doesn't yellow with age. It is better for the environment and indoor air quality since it has lower VOC (volatile organic compounds). With less of an off-gassing problem, homeowners can move back to their house soon after their hardwood floor is completed. About 80-85% of the sanding and finishing pros at Amber Flooring are certified by Bona®. tips for homeowners One important trade secret that Or and Mark shows us is called acclimatization. They take raw wood into the project house to let it get used to the typical condition of the house. The strips or planks are stacked in a 'matchsticking' (crisscrossing) fashion so that air flow can get through. This is to minimize expansion and contraction after installation. For the same reason, it is good practice to maintain a consistent indoor environment if you are going to be away for an extended period. A stale interior with a drastic change in temperature and humidity can cause warping or buckling. Select the wood specie and finish to fit your lifestyle and budget: oak, maple, and American walnut are all versatile; harder exotic wood species and strand woven bamboo are slightly more expensive to install; Bona® Traffic HD is one of the most expensive finishes but it may well be worth the expense in the long run. Amber Flooring Founded in 1992 by Ilan Zamir, Amber Flooring grew from a one-man operation into a well known company of fifteen employees today. They specialize in custom wood flooring, intricate staircases, and offer carpet, vinyl, and Marmoleum® flooring products and installation service. They source their products from North America, South America, and Asia, either with direct importation or through other local suppliers. Photo captions: L-R  (interior projects designed by bL, photos by Scott Hargis.) 1. Quarter sawn oak solid hardwood plank  2. Clear American Walnut 3. Solid wood plank (top 1/4" useful)  4. Engineered wood plank (top 1/8" useful) 5. Solid white oak select custom finished on site  6. Engineered pre-finished hardwood flooring   7. Amber Flooring showroom  8. L-R: Or Dobrin, Mark Whatley your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. remodeling design award Click here to see an interview of Stephen Shoup by Remodeling Magazine. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

design as a performing art

June 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser how design happens Being a creative process, architectural design evolves from intuition, artistry, experiences, and most of all a shared discovery between the designer and the client. Sometimes, a client would come to building Lab with a pretty detailed vision. Very often, he or she would start with a vague idea: about something not working in their existing floor plan, or a wish to open up the space. In this edition, we chat with bL's senior designer Hideaki (Hide) Kawato to get more insights about how a modest request blossomed into a treetop retreat for grownups. floor plan as the plot line The client, a venture capitalist, art collector, world traveller and sportsman, approached us about a new powder room for the top story of his family residence on the north slope of Russian Hill, an exclusive neighborhood of colorful old buildings, some dating back to the 19th century. The existing master bedroom, a small office, and adjacent family room and sitting room all shared one dark and cramped bathroom located at the center of this floor. The family room and sitting room, with panoramic bay and city views, were used frequently as entertainment space for grownup friends. The teenage children have their own venues in other parts of this large residence. Hide recalls that at first glance, the simplest solution would have been adding a powder room by enclosing a small roof deck off directly from the family room. Upon further investigation and discussion, it became clear that a much better aesthetic and functional outcome could be achieved by reorganizing the floor plan. Our design team (Stephen and Hide working closely together) carved out a part from the old bath to make a new powder room accessible from the hallway and main stairs. The remaining part of the old bath is combined with the enclosed roof deck to create an en-suite master bath with an adjoining dressing area. glimpses and bounces: playing the light like music Hide and Stephen got quite a bit of inspiration and cues from the site and the client himself. The floor-to-ceiling entryway is in keeping with the grand scale of the residence. The play with the variegated light in the foliage creates an indoor/outdoor shower experience. Blue sky and lush trees are visible from the shower through a large picture window, while light filtered by the greenery splashes over the counter through a long, low view window. A new skylight straddles the master bath and the powder room. Transom glass around the perimeter of the powder room allows glimpses of light bouncing through both the bath and the powder room as well as the new dressing area. materials and details are the main actors White walls form a quiet backdrop for the bold modern art and rich teak cabinetry. An 8-foot-long custom concrete countertop with integrated dual sinks anchors the space with its earth tone and sculptural feel. Handmade tiles add to the room’s warmth with their natural color variations and pleasant tactile quality. Our partner Jeff King & Co did a fantastic job in building and fabricating. Custom details such as cabinets with no visible pulls (touch latch), sliding glass doors with tracks that disappear into the ceiling and a handle carved directly into the sandblasted glass allow the materials to speak for themselves. See more photos...   taking a shower is a heightened experience From a simple idea of adding a powder room to reorganizing the entire top floor as a retreat and entertainment area for grownups, our design team worked closely with our client every step of the way. Indeed, the selected color palette and materials had a lot to do with the client's preferences. Without the benefit of a big view, the master bath is now a private oasis nestled in the trees. best of east and west Hide's passion is to help clients to realize their visions in creating custom modern homes that elevate everyday activities to special experiences. He credits his early interest in architecture to his having an engineer father and a Martha Stewart inspired mother. Growing up in Japan, he also developed a deep appreciation for simplicity, beauty, and nature. These instincts were further enriched by his experience of indoor/outdoor living in an Eichler home after moving to California. After college, Hide did a stint in traditional design/build, wearing a tool belt on job sites during the day, and designing on the computer at night. He joined bL's modern and design focused practice in 2008 and the rest is history. Photo captions L - R  1. View of master bath from dressing area   2. Bold modern art sets the tone   3. Skylight straddles both bathrooms; transom glass allows glimses of light bouncing through the rooms 4. Entryway with concealed pocket door   5. Powder room 6. Before: old bathroom with no views or light  7. Close up your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

bringing dreams to reality

May 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser dissecting a success story For some, hiring a design-build firm for a home remodel is a straightforward business: you take a list of the client's needs and wishes, and through planning, drawing, and construction, give it physical shape in the form of spaces and structures. While this is true in the general sense, oftentimes a great project is the result of a complex collaboration among the client, the designer, and the key field crew on the job. For this edition, we get to chat with building Lab’s own Stephen Shoup to find out more about how one beautifully completed project came into being. it begins with a dream In this design and construction of a garden level great room which won a 2016 REMMIES AWARD from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, our clients were a busy professional couple with two young children. They initially came to bL with a rather modest wish of creating a multi-purpose family space/guest quarters with a full bath and a laundry. The project area was the unfinished basement (with a 7' ceiling) of a traditional residence with three bedrooms and one bath on the main level.  Stephen recalls having identified 3 important design goals immediately after the initial consultation with the clients: The transition from the main floor down to the new space is smooth but unfussy. The space will not feel like a basement. The outdoor patio will not feel sunken. problem solving Along the way, the clients made several courageous decisions that were critical in shaping the final result. Originally, the major electrical panel and meter were mounted on one end of the wall where the glass sliders were going to be located. Moving these unsightly obstacles to the garage was not an insignificant expense item. Secondly, a steel beam had to be inserted above the ceiling line such that a floor-to-ceiling glass wall effect could be achieved. Stephen credits the clients for being engaging and decisive: "They could digest lots of information in a timely manner and were able to respond." This is really important in a project that involves the demolition, excavation, and rebuilding of an old basement.  from dreams to reality The overall impression of this project is one of expansiveness, simple elegance, and warmth. There is a rich interplay of materials and articulation of details as one transitions from the traditional main level into the dramatic modern space below. Extensive excavation results in a 9' plus ceiling in the lower level. Wall-to-wall glass and sliders open up the space to the patio. The same tone of concrete floor throughout (with smoother texture in the interior) further enhances the seamless indoor-outdoor feeling. A layered horizontality in the landscape design leads the eye gently from the concrete floor up to the garden and the fence beyond. As in any creative process, design is a shared discovery. The development of mutual trust between the client and the designer is key to success. In approaching each new job, the bL team usually works out several options for the client to decide, taking budget and timeline into consideration. Stephen then communicates his excitement about the possibilities and also fine-tunes it according to the client's sensibility and function requirement.   In this project, Stephen recognized early on that his clients were creative and entrepreneurial, and they were open to something more than just utilitarian functions being fulfilled in this home remodel. The scope had gradually expanded as a result of a deepening understanding and appreciation of the quality of the environment on the part of the clients. They wanted this to be their family home for a long time to come. See more photos… a hands-on designer With a background in architectural design and carpentry, Stephen is well versed in lofty design theories as well as geeky technical terminology. He has a hand in everything we do here in building Lab, from concept sketches, specific construction details, to business management. Nothing is too big for him to grasp the whole picture, or too small for him to try it on for size. Here, you can see Stephen squeezed himself into the play nook tucked under the stairwell. Photo captions L - R  1. Family space opens out to patio   2. Patio and garden beyond 3. Before: original doorway to backyard   4. Before: stairwell door and water heater 5. Enclosed stairwell with play nook   6. Landing with vertical stainless steel cable 7. Corridor flanked by bookcases   8. Night view from patio your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

the art of seeing

March 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser seeing is feeling Much like a movie director scouting a location for a scene, an architectural photographer walks into a building with all of his senses in high alert. "It is my goal to record that initial emotional response, such as the kind one gets when going through a small and dark passage and entering into an expansive and light-filled space. When a viewer sees my photograph, I want him to have the exact same feeling as if he had the actual physical experience," says Scott Hargis, our long-time collaborator. seeing is believing A frequent misconception about photography is that people believe it is an exact recording of physical spaces or matters. In reality, a photo renders a 3-D space onto a 2-D medium. A camera lens is not equal to a pair of human eyes. Human eyes can look at a bright surface and discern the details, then turn to a dark surface and still can discern the details, which the camera lens cannot. Human eyes can always perceive depths while the camera lens relies on the tones of light (bright, medium, and dark) and converging lines to create a perspective. Sometimes too much natural light can make a photo look flat. It is often blocked with dark curtains and artificial lighting is used instead. Scott explains that a photographer uses many tools and techniques to make a representation of reality that is more true than real. In this remodel of an unfinished basement into a garden level great room in San Francisco, Scott tries to capture that excitement as he walked through the main floor of a traditional residence and stood at the threshold of the new stairwell. The tall window accentuates the ceiling height and floods the space with natural light. The wood panels with a lighter tone at mid distance wrap around and continue on the ceiling of the lower level. They invite and guide you down into the new space. Once you turn the corner, the drama is enhanced as the conventional stairs become floating logs made from reclaimed oak. In the above left photo, a gauze curtain was attached to the outside of the window to soften the light and obscure the sidewall of a neighboring house. The ceiling lines were included in the shot to clarify a jog in the wood paneled wall.    the art of seeing  In this remodel of a suburban residence in Marin, the entry is at the lower level. In contrast to the previous project, Scott wants to express the designer's intent to indicate something interesting is happening above on the main level. The left image shows the stairs as they were during the photo shoot at 3pm in the afternoon. Scott used artificial lighting to enhance and brighten the rich wood tones of the treads. He focused a spot light through the pendant fixture up above to cast contrasting shadows on the wall. He positioned the camera such that none of the jogs of the handrail would be obscured by the vertical metal rods. The finished shot on the right shows the entire handrail dancing up in sync with the steps. A thin strip of brightness accompanies the stairs as they climb up as the top of the baseboard was highlighted with yet another spot light during the shoot. being true to the design Scott believes in using his tools and techniques so that viewers can see the design in the best light. Constant communication with the design team is a must as this is an art of collaboration. Having worked with building Lab for years is definitely a plus. He can appreciate and understand the evolution and continuity of Stephen's design philosophy. When he encounters one of our new projects, he immediately puts it in relation to other bL works. This experience informs him in mysterious ways. Somehow, it works! ready to shoot Scott Hargis is a widely recognized interiors and architectural photographer based in the San Francisco Bay area. Scott creates artistic photographs that communicate more than just basic information about a room or structure. His compositions reveal the intent of the designer and accurately convey the feeling of being in the space itself. He relies on traditional field techniques and attention to detail to create images that feel alive and authentic without excessive digital manipulation. Photo captions L - R  1. SF Great Room entry stairwell   2. SF Great Room floating stairs 3. Marin Residence stairs to main level without lighting   4. Marin Residence stairs with lighting 5. Blocking the flat natural light   6. Spot light through a pendant fixture 7. Scott Hargis at a shoot your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

mastering the master bath

February 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser continuing the conversation with chris rogers Over the years, quite a few prospective clients have wondered if it might be difficult to execute modern design in an older building. Chris contends that in general, new construction is easier since the progression of work is more logically and predictably laid out. In remodeling an older building, there are often hidden and unexpected challenges. Existing walls are almost always not true and plumb. Old floors tend to slope instead of being level. Certainly, good outcomes begin with good designs and accurate drawings. But ultimately, each perfect execution is done in the field with coordination and supervision by the designers. The lead carpenter in the project is charged with figuring out a lot of details in situ. mastering the master bath Regarding the numerous interesting projects he has worked on, Chris thinks the bathroom remodel stands out as the category which best embodies the design philosophy of our firm. With relatively simple and straightforward function requirement, the bathroom lets the materials and forms shine.  In this remodel of a suburban residence in Marin, clean lines and restrained material choices brighten and update the interior. One of building Lab's trademarks in bathroom design is the use of a single type of large format floor tiles throughout the room. In this case, the porcelain tiles step up onto the shower floor which slopes in one direction towards the linear drain. The decision of whether to step up or create a level condition with contiguous bathroom floor is controlled by design, budget, and logistical considerations. If it were new construction, then a level entry into the shower is easily achieved as the floor supports would have been designed to allow for the slope. A feature that catches attention is the way wall tiles are installed flush with the drywall. Each tile plus mortar and backer usually come to 1 1/2", while a typical drywall is 5/8". To compensate for the difference in thickness, plywood is nailed on the studs under the drywall (the technical term is "furring out"). This is a good example of the kind of extra work that is required to create a simple look. Another favorite design element is a narrow and tall window. White laminated glass preserves privacy and baths the space with diffused natural light. The white console style trough sink with wall mounted walnut cabinetry, the mirrors with integral lights, and the under cabinet lighting all contribute to the fresh modern look.  modern design for a late 19th century building Featured above is a master bath in an Edwardian which won a Grand Award from Remodeling Design Magazine in 2015. It is a great example of how modern design combined with fine materials and precise detailing can feel entirely at home in a traditional building. Tall, thin mirrors accentuate the high ceilings and complement the original window. Note the subtle custom details such as the integral LED lighting wrapping around the mirrors, and a shower glass partition installed in such a way to give the illusion of cutting across the quartz counter and shelving. Suspended walnut cabinetry with book matched grain pattern adds elegance and warmth. Much care and skill are involved in the cutting and installation of these panels. A small mistake means the whole cabinet face will have to be replaced. Around the corner, a small powder room is created by closing off the end of a long hallway. Since the room is small and narrow, everything is done to make it feel spacious and not an inch of space is wasted. The toilet is wall hung with the tank concealed. A narrow and long counter with suspended walnut cabinetry lines one wall with a super small vessel sink sitting on one end. A large horizontal mirror appears to be floating right into a wall niche. In reality, the mirror is mounted on a backing wrapped with a thin strip of LED lighting all around. The wall niche is made of MDF and is painted the same color as the wall to create the illusion that it is carved out from the wall. Marrying the new with the old is our passion; it is the essence of remodeling. It entails a varying set of contextual challenges and is a major factor in keeping the attention and interest of creative minds like Chris's. Photo captions: L-R (all photos by Scott Hargis) 1. Master bath in Marin - shower   2. Master bath in Marin - trough sink and vanity 3. Master bath in a SF Edwardian - view of the vanity from the shower  4. Powder room in a SF Edwardian your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

complication of being simple

January 2016 Newsletter View this email in your browser what makes it modern? When asked about what attracted them to building Lab, our past and prospective clients often answered without hesitation, "simplicity and cleanness". Along with open floor-plans and structural clarity, simplicity (in lines and details) is certainly one of the most recognized hallmarks of modern design. Not coincidentally, simplicity is an important goal of our design team and its execution depends on the experience and skill of our carpenters. To understand how everything can come together seamlessly, we turn to our long time master carpenter Chris Rogers.  it's not easy being simple Like most established woodworker and artisans, Chris came from traditional modes of building whereby ornamentations (such as crown moldings and baseboards) are used to hide the seams and differences when different materials interact. In modern architecture, however, extremely precise construction techniques are required to create the clean connections. When the design calls for a wall of glass to disappear into the ceiling, the frame is concealed above the ceiling line. Sometimes, a thin metal piece is used to define the ceiling edge where the window shade will roll down from a hidden groove. Similarly, window frames can be made to disappear into the floor and the wall. In this case, the full thickness of the frame is visible on the exterior of the building, but it is mostly covered by the wall and the floorboards inside. Another feature that attracts both admiration and curiosity is the way modern interior walls appear to be hovering less than an inch above the floor with no baseboards in sight. In fact, gypsum drywalls are installed above wood baseboards (both are attached to the studs) along the same plane. The bottom of each baseboard has been notched out to form a 3/8" reveal. The face of the drywalls and baseboards are then plastered such that the two materials are blended into one whole. a perfect corner In this elegant au pair suite tucked under an existing garage, white laminated glass with bronze anodized aluminum frame forms a minimalist sculptural form at the entry while enclosing a shower inside. This is a double pane assembly with a white synthetic fabric sandwiched between two layers of glass. It was chosen over sand blasted or acid etched types because it would offer superior privacy, safety, and ability to make a clean corner. After the panels were cut precisely for a miter joint, they were clamped in place with silicone bead. Strip lighting above the door and a stainless steel threshold extending across the whole width of the entry offer both function and architectural definition.  things have to line up In this small studio apartment, refined details and clean lines make the space more expansive and functional for its many purposes: as an au pair suite now, as an entertainment space for the parents later, and eventually as a dwelling for an aging grandparent or a boomerang kid. Note that the pocket door slides close and lines up perfectly (thanks to ceiling tracks and metal floor guides) with the cabinets to hide the custom kitchenette, and the large cabinet in the middle cleverly conceals a murphy bed. the master carpenter Chris's interest in the trades developed early, working summers with his father on various residential construction projects. After a stint in college studying art, lit., and music, he settled in Berkeley in 1991. His passion for fine woodworking grew as he worked building custom homes. Chris took a break from construction in 2000-2001 to study furniture making with the late James Krenov, renowned author and furniture maker, at the College of The Redwoods in Fort Bragg. He built cabinets and furniture independently in the Bay Area until he started working with building Lab in 2003. He's still here! Architect: Andrew Fisher, Fisher Architecture Design development and general contracting: building Lab Photos  (#3 and #8 are by Muffy Kibbey):  1. Expanse of glass disappears into the ceiling  2. Window frame mostly concealed by the wall and floor boards; interior wall with no visible baseboard 3. Exterior view of au pair suite  4. Entry defined by white laminated glass corner 5. Closeup view of entry  6. Shower enclosed by white laminated glass; tiled floor slopes down to drain 7. Living room with kitchenette  8. Pocket door closed to conceal the kitchenette 9. Chris Rogers in his element your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

happy 2016!

December 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle. - Albert Einstein May your new year be filled with wonders and delights! -The building Lab Team This image 'Galaxy Cubed' is generously provided by Fusions Designs Gallery. your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

painting: like putting makeup on your space

November 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser painting: like putting makeup on your space Like an esthetician, a good professional painter strives to hide blemishes, smooth out imperfections, and accentuate the desirable features of his client. The goal is to achieve long lasting and seemingly effortless beauty. To learn some of these tricks of the trade, we had a nice chat with Kristopher Kent of Kent Painting & Finishing while he was working on an extensive fence staining job in the Montclair neighborhood of Oakland. foundation is key Kris began by explaining that a good paint job is only as good as the surface preparation which should include cleaning, filling in holes with spackling, sanding, priming, and at least two coats of paint (darker colors may require more). With older walls, more work is needed to ensure a sound and stable surface. Needless to say, if underlying problems were discovered (such as molds and mildews, and dry rots), efforts must be made to identify and remedy the source of the problems. A thorough process takes time and skill and there is a clear relationship between the final result and the budget. choices and more choices Many homeowners enjoy picking paint shades and colors as their remodeling project is at its final stage of completion. Others may find the endless options bewildering. Picking the right color is ultimately a personal choice. But it is often complicated by the fact that all colors look different under different light and in the company of different surrounding materials. This is when consultations with your designer can be invaluable. Picking a sheen is a somewhat less subjective issue. Here we have compiled a general guide to get you started. The names and consistency vary slightly from brand to brand. Interior: flat, matte, eggshell, pearl, sateen, semi-gloss, gloss, high-gloss. Flat: reflects the least light, hides imperfections, elegant and calm, perfect for ceilings. The drawback: smudges easily, hard to wipe, not moisture resistant. With children and pets, and for high traffic areas, it is best to choose Eggshell. For spas and other humid areas, higher sheen (Pearl and above) will discourage mildew growth. Pearl is also wonderful for woodwork. Exterior: flat, matte, low-sheen, sateen, semi-gloss/soft gloss, gloss. With stucco walls, glossy paints tend to highlight the imperfections. Low-sheen is more durable, UV resistant, and easier to power wash. Many homeowners opt for Soft Gloss for trims and doors. More tips: never make decisions based on a printed paint chart of any size. always paint samples on inconspicuous sections of wall.  or you can paint samples on 24"X24" pieces of sheetrock and place them in various conditions. interior: when touching up, always use the same means (brush, roll, or spray) as the original. exterior: rolling penetrates better, especially for stucco. flat panel doors: brush on paint is relatively easy to touch up. spray on paint gives a smooth and even appearance, but it is harder to touch up.  low/zero v.o.c. paints have the same quality as conventional ones, but less long term data is available. white is the new black We are so happy to hear 'Simply White' has been declared '2016 color of the year' by Benjamin Moore®. As you know, white and modern designs work together beautifully. It lights up and expands a space. It is especially effective for low-ceilinged rooms. However, fingerprints and smudges do show up all too well on a white wall. So, if you are concerned with maintenance, choose wipeable surfaces (such as Benjamin Moore® Aura), and/or a higher sheen. For do-it-yourself touchups, textured surfaces are easier. With flat and eggshell, you can see the touchups quite easily when standing parallel to the wall. But here at bL, we love smooth, flat, and white. What to do? Well, when our kids are off to college, we will call back our painter to quickly clean up and apply one coat on the entire wall. kent painting & finishing Kris grew up in the painting business joining his father on job sites throughout his childhood. After business school, he decided to come home to help his father in making the business more sustainable. Immersed fully in the trade, he found painting to be far more fulfilling than he had ever anticipated. He took the reins when his father became ill in 2008 and has not looked back. Photo captions: L-R (all paints are by Benjamin Moore) 1. Master bedroom: 'Super White' matte   2. Master bath: 'Super White' pearl 3. Kitchen: 'Snow White' eggshell   4. Kitchen wall: 'London fog' eggshell zero voc 5. Kitchen: 'Super White' matte   6. Panel at entry: 'Rocky Coast' low-sheen 7. L-R: Antonio Torres Torres, Ismael Flores, and Kristopher Kent your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

breaking news at building Lab

October 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser breaking news at building Lab We are interrupting our series on local artisans to bring your attention to new and interesting things happening at building Lab. pacific height penthouse master bath receives grand award Together with a group of distinguished architects and designers, building Lab is a winner in this year' Remodeling Design Awards, a prestigious, national competition.  Here is what our design team says: Having recently purchased a condominium in a late 19th century building, this Swedish couple saw the sharing of the master bath with their guests a shortcoming worth resolving sooner than later. They turned to our team to create an en-suite master bath with a modern spa-like feel that works harmoniously with the original detailing. With adequate storage elsewhere, we co-opted an existing closet into the new master bath which resulted in an ample if not enormous foot print. The couple's decidedly Scandinavian sensibilities prompted us to keep the material palette simple and neutral thus allowing the space and light to speak for themselves. Tall skinny mirrors emphasize the height of the room and saturate all corners with reflected light. Suspended walnut cabinetry contributes a tactility and warmth. Subtle custom details such as the integral LED lighting wrapping around the mirrors invite closer examination. But perhaps the most successful quality of the project is the expansive sense of space and lightness. Read the entire blog from Remodeling.com. See video. project starts and completions A bold move to create precious space in San Francisco by digging down: a stylish and functional lower level (family/office/entertainment/outdoor) is in its final stage of completion (see photo above left). In this project, modern design is inserted seamlessly under a traditional residence in the St. Mary neighborhood. A whole-house remodel of a custom mid-century nestled in a redwood grove in Atherton. Rebuilt from the ground up, this high end renovation reconfigures the public spaces to improve flow, function, and connections to the landscape. More to come: elegant finishes to complement the client's artwork, and dramatic natural and artificial lighting. (Photo above right.) more whole-house remodels upper left: multi levels in Bernal Height connected via dramatic stairs. Steel moment frame set in place, ready for the 2-story glass wall overlooking back garden. upper right: modern ranch project in San Jose optimizes flow, continuity, and distinction of the public spaces and enhances indoor-outdoor living. lower left: whole-house remodel in Greenbrae includes kitchen, dining, living, with focus on finishes, organization, and flow between spaces. lower right: whole-house remodel in San Anselmo balances spacial efficiency with a sense of depth and expansiveness and connection to the outdoor. your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

counter intelligence - choosing the perfect stone for your job

September 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser counter intelligence: choosing the right stone for your job If you are in the process of remodeling your kitchen, you might feel that you are spending an inordinate amount of time selecting the perfect material for your counter. Consider this time well spent since the counter is an important element that touches on functionality and aesthetics in equal measure.  In this issue, our frequent collaborator Dimitar Marchev of Custom Stone showed us around his state-of-the-art Oakland workshop and taught us a thing or two about stones, both natural and engineered. quartz is king We are referring to engineered quartz surfaces made with up to 93% quartz (a natural stone) and binders. Popular brands include Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone. According to Dimitar, "ten years ago, 80% of homeowners chose natural stones, mostly granite, and 20% chose quartz. Today, the trend is practically reversed." No wonder, quartz is non-porous, stain and heat resistant, and requires no sealing and no wax. There are endless options in terms of colors and textures and more innovative new products have been coming on the market recently. Modernists tend to prefer the quiet elegance of quartz with its consistent and subdued colors and patterns. Caesarstone, the company which pioneered quartz counters in 1987, just launched three stunning models: raw, fresh, and sleek concrete in a suede (lightly textured) finish. secrets for success Dimitar and co-owner Peytcho Peytchev have worked their magic on many of building Lab's projects. In these beautiful kitchen and bathroom counters, their exact measurement, fabrication, and installation are much appreciated. Dimitar thinks communication is most important in this kind of custom work. Both partners are trained in all phases of production, although Dimitar usually takes care of the business end, and Peytcho focuses on fabrication. They try to purchase the best and latest equipment; but ultimately this is a craft that depends a lot on their skilled hands. tips for homeowners Know your tolerance: Marble - timeless beauty, susceptible to heat, stain and aging, needs annual resealing. More suitable for bath than kitchen. Granite - generally heat and stain resistant and relatively easy to repair. Quality varies a lot depending on the composition. Panels with pronounced patterns and colors tend to crack more easily. Quartz - easy to maintain, but more difficult to repair and re-polish once damaged. Dark and plain colors are harder to repair (repairing a plain black surface is really hard!) Neolith - a new high-tech porcelain slab that is highly resistant to water, chemical, heat, and abrasion. Modernists beware: sharp edges are generally easier to chip! Use PH neutral products and non-abrasive pads for cleaning. Be sure to read manufacturer's guidelines. the founder Dimitar came to the U.S. from Bulgaria in 1998 with a degree in accounting and economics. His first job in this country was in construction. He soon became a remodeling contractor and met his future business partner. He and Peytcho started Custom Stone in 2004. Photo captions: L-R 1. Caesarstone 'London Grey'   2. Carrara marble 3. Caesarstone 'Sleek Concrete'   4. Caesarstone 'Raw Concrete' 5. Edge polishing machine   6. Dimitar in front of 3 large panels of Neolith.   7. Seacliff Residence by building Lab   8. Piedmont Residence by building Lab and Ignition Architecture your positive review is important to us Write a review and enter to win an ipad. stephen and taya at home  click here to see interview by dwell video. share this newsletter caesarstone counter with integral sink.   Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

the art of installing tiles

July 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser the art of installing tiles In this issue, we have the good fortune of chatting with Rafael Anaya, a well-known local artisan who does fantastic work with tiles. Taking a break from his work on a new master bath in Oakland Hills, Rafael generously shared with us some of his trade secrets and offered advice for homeowners planning to do a remodel. it's all about the float Floating refers to the application of wet cement mix to form a mortar bed. This is a physically demanding skill that takes years to develop since it is important to make the surface smooth and grading correctly to ensure proper drainage. When doing a mortar bed, Rafael and his team prefer to float the entire area all at once if possible. On building Lab's recently completed master bath project in a Russian Hill residence, he worked with handcrafted tiles of different textures and thicknesses. In this case, the two segments were floated one after another and the tiles at the transitions were perfectly matched.  an eye for design: importance of dry layout In this sophisticated master bath, clean lines and modern design are enriched with handmade elements and natural materials. Rafael worked closely with the designer building Lab and builder Jeff King and Co. in planning the layout. First, they had to agree on a focal point where the eye would naturally fall on. From there, tiles would be laid out without mortar (dry layout). As the tiles approached walls or other floor surfaces, decisions had to be made to ensure the cut edges were aesthetically pleasing. Having either a full tile or half tile at the border would be an ideal scenario.  tips for homeowners Order all the tiles before the job starts. The layout cannot be perfect without the actual tiles.  For shower floors, avoid polished stone in formats larger than 12"X12" since they would be too slippery. Use honed stone or matt ceramic if you like large tiles. Small tiles would not pose such problems as the grout lines provide the friction. Stone tiles need to be resealed every year. Do not use abrasive cleaning materials as they would dull the surface. Frequent cleaning and good ventilation are essential to avoid buildup of molds and mildew.  the master Rafael grew up in Mexico and moved to Los Angeles as a teenager. After high school, he worked in construction and also did a stint as a shuttle bus driver. He worked as a housepainter after moving to the Bay Area in 1989, right after the earthquake. In 1993, he apprenticed with the great tile master Tony Buselli (now retired). Rafael started his own firm, Anaya Tile Company in 2005. Photo captions: L-R 1. Rafael Anaya at a job site   2. Project in progress - tiles drain to a sloping channel at the far edge 3. Channel leads down to the drain   4. Two full tiles between the niches 5. Completed project: modern master bath atop a historic russian hill residence a big thank you to our clients and colleagues for their stellar reviews shoup residence featured at dwell.com click here to see article and slideshow. share this newsletter top: parquet ceramic by pratt & larson bottom: herringbone field limestone by sonoma tile Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

AIA Marin Living Home Tours 2015

May 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser Everyone at building Lab feels very honored to be a participant at the upcoming AIA Marin Living Home Tours. We are also really happy we can offer a special discount to our friends and colleagues. Please use the code MARIN2015 for $10 off tickets. This is only valid on tickets purchased online before May 30th. You may also use this link: https://marinliving.eventbrite.com/?discount=MARIN2015 The Shoup residence is featured as a 'Legacy House' in the tours. Please go to AIA Marin Living Home Tours for more information. a big thank you to our clients and colleagues for their stellar reviews shoup residence featured at dwell.com Click here to see article and slideshow. share this newsletter Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

custom finishes for cabinets - Englund Studio part 2

April 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser not all wood species are created equal In our last edition, Steve Englund of Englund Studio explained that it took years to learn about all the different wood species cabinet makers use and the subtle differences in the way they take finishes.  Among the more familiar wood species, those with a closed grain (small pores and less distinct figures and patterns), tend to finish better. Examples are maple, cherry, alder, and birch. Bamboo, although technically a grass, is fast growing and easily renewable, and its close grain makes it an excellent surface for finishes. Other popular choices for cabinets, such as oak, walnut, mahogany, and some exotic hardwoods, have moderately open grain (large pores and more pronounced patterns). More care is needed in the application of coloring and finishes in order to achieve a smooth and even appearance. Certainly, designers and homeowners choose a wood specie based on many factors: appearance, durability, abundance in well managed North American forests, etc. In general, a harder wood resists dents better and therefore holds up better in the long run. In traditional style cabinets with face frames, the hardness of the wood should be taken into consideration. In modern style flat panels, however, the plywood underlays provide the necessary structural integrity. So, feel free to choose walnut or American cherry (both are moderately soft) as veneers. protect your investment - maintenance and repair For regular cleaning, use a clean soft cloth or sponge slightly dampened with water. Spray glass cleaner on the cloth and wipe with the grain. Allow to dry. The key is to clean regularly. Do not let kitchen grease or food scraps harden on the surfaces.  For serious damages, individual door panels are taken back to the studio to be stripped, sanded and finished. This can be completed in a week and returned to you just like new. Such is the advantage of having your cabinets done locally. In terms of repair: clear finish is the easiest since it only requires sanding and resealing. Pigmented opaque (such as white) is also rather simple since solid color is easy to replicate. Translucent (stain or dye) is hardest to fix. It will take more time to match the exact shade. Steve's tips for clients: buy the most expensive wood your budget allows and opt for a clear finish. It is not wise to buy a cheap wood and try to fix the appearance with finishes. A simple clear finish is easy to repair and also better for the environment. a greener option Water based conversion varnish, with much lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds), has been in use for over 10 years. It is approved by the KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association, www.kcma.org) for quality and durability. The process of application is similar to that of the conventional conversion varnish. Bear in mind that there is a subtle difference in color of the finished wood with a water-bourne finish. It does not penetrate wood fibers as deeply as a solvent based one, and as a result it doesn't achieve the same deep color and luster. So, walnut may look slightly grayish instead of the familiar rich brown. With the constant improvement of this greener option, it is expected that the color differences will become insignificant. This alternative is getting more popular as it is kinder to the environment and better for the health of the workers. Photo captions: L-R 1.Amber bamboo with clear finish                                             2.Mahogany with clear finish 3.Wall:white oak with grey wash; island:opaque (pigmented)   4.Walnut with clear finish      5.Amber bamboo with dark chocolate stain (translucent)         6.Walnut with water based varnish  shoup residence featured as a 'legacy house' in this year's AIA Marin Living Home Tours. a big thank you to our clients and colleagues for their stellar reviews shoup residence featured at dwell.com Click here to see article and slideshow. share this newsletter Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

custom finishes for cabinets - Englund Studio part 1

February 2015 Newsletter View this email in your browser home remodeling topics for 2015   Mies van der Rohe is often credited with the adage "God is in the detail". Everyone else seems to think it is the devil (and sometimes we agree). Regardless, we at bL pride ourselves on our attention to detail in all of our work. Ultimately, every detail requires the input and artistry of the highly skilled local craftsmen we collaborate with. To express our appreciation, we will feature each personality and explain the unique process of creating elements that contribute to the overall architectural quality. For this first issue, we visit Englund Studio. custom finish: a painstaking and methodical process Located in the still authentically industrial area of West Oakland, Englund Studio is a spacious and state-of-the-art facility. Founder Steve Englund took time out from his busy schedule to chat with us about his work. In business for 22 years, his studio specializes in the application of industrial wood coatings. If you have a custom kitchen designed and built by building Lab, chances are the cabinet faces are beautifully finished by this local workshop. One of the most used finishes in custom cabinetry is called conversion varnish. In contrast to store bought polyurethane or oil finish a do-it-yourselfer can apply with a brush, conversion varnish must be applied with an industrial sprayer under the stringent regulation and monitoring of the BAAQMD. It is formulated with melamine resin, which simulates the elegant appearance of lacquer. It contains solvents which evaporate quickly and therefore its application requires a high level of expertise.   the process Basic Clear Finish - wood pieces must be cut, sanded and cleaned perfectly by the cabinet maker. This preparation work is critical to the success of the final appearance. The pieces are laid flat on supports. A clear sealer coat of varnish is applied, then the surfaces are sanded by hand. A top coat is applied and the pieces are left to dry overnight. A typical cabinet door will take about a week since the process has to be repeated on both sides. Coloring - stains, dyes, or bleach can be brushed or wiped on by hand. After drying, the same process of 2 coats with sanding and drying in between will complete the job. Opaque - finish ready surfaces are first sprayed with a primer and sanded. Any holes or imperfections are repaired. Then the surfaces are sanded until completely smooth. A top coat of white (or colored) varnish is applied. Some people think these surfaces are painted or lacquered, but they are actually finished with pigmented conversion varnish.   the artist Steve's background is in art. He purchased the business in 1993 from a sculptor friend as a way to supplement his art career. He expected it to be a short term measure. But after 22 years, his business is still going strong. Amazingly, he also maintains a full time painting studio. He admitted that the most difficult but important aspect about mastering this business was not the day-to-day management, but the understanding of all the different wood species cabinet makers use, and the differences in the way they take finishes. So, stay tuned for Custom Finishes Part 2.... Photo captions: L-R 1. Fredy Luis with Steve Englund     2. Patrick Gallaher inside a spray booth 3. Finish ready maple panels            4. Dark color applied, then one sealer coat on white oak 5. Master craftsman Sam Saeliew    6. Opaque: primer + top coat of white varnish applied a big thank you to our clients and colleagues for their stellar reviews shoup residence featured at dwell.com Click here to see article and slideshow. share this newsletter Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list

happy holidays!

December 2014 Newsletter View this email in your browser Best wishes for a peaceful, healthy, and amazing 2015!   polka dot study by artist sofie ramos sofie ramos www.sofieramos.com shoup residence featured at dwell.com Click here to see article and slideshow. share this newsletter Share Tweet Forward to Friend buildingLab 999 43rd street oakland, ca 94608 t: 510.420.1133 e: info@buildingLab.com          *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|* Copyright © 2014 building Lab All rights reserved. update subscription preferences   unsubscribe from this list