June is American Housing Month, a time to reflect on the importance of having a safe and secure place to call home. For many people, homeownership is the cornerstone of the American Dream, but for others, finding and maintaining adequate housing can be a struggle. During American Housing Month, organizations and government agencies across the country may hold events, workshops, and outreach programs to educate the public on housing-related issues. These may include topics such as homeownership, affordable housing programs, energy-efficient housing, fair housing laws, and more. The mont ..read more

Wood is a timeless material that has been used in construction and interior design for centuries. It brings a sense of warmth and character to any space, and its versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of styles, from traditional to modern. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in using wood in home décor, with residential architects and homeowners alike finding new and creative ways to incorporate it into their living spaces. In this article, we’ll explore some wooden inspiration for your home, and offer tips and ideas for using this natural material to add warmth and b ..read more

Kitchen islands are no longer just functional workspaces; they have become the centerpiece of modern kitchens. They provide extra storage, prep space, and dining options. And if you’re renovating or designing your kitchen, you know that selecting the right lighting for your kitchen island is an important aspect of the overall design. Kitchen island lighting should not only provide adequate lighting but also enhance the kitchen’s aesthetics and highlight the island’s focal points. In this article, we’ll explore kitchen island lighting design to highlight the focal points and how to choose the ..read more

Residential architecture is an ever-evolving industry, and it is fascinating to see how each year brings new trends and styles. As we continue to adapt to the changing needs of homeowners, residential architects and designers are constantly seeking new ways to create homes that are functional, sustainable, and visually appealing. In 2023, there are several exciting architectural trends that homeowners and designers alike can look forward to. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability in residential architecture. In 2023, this trend ..read more

As children grow up and move out of the house, many parents find themselves with an empty nest. This can be a bittersweet time, as it marks the end of one phase of life and the beginning of another. However, it also presents an opportunity to create the perfect empty nester’s house. This is a space that is tailored to the needs and desires of the parents, without the need to accommodate the preferences of younger family members. In this blog post, we will explore the key features of the perfect empty nester’s house. Location The first consideration when designing the perfect empty nester’s ho ..read more

Source: The New York Times In the United States, starter homes have traditionally been a popular option for first-time homebuyers. These smaller, more affordable homes have been a stepping stone for many families to enter the housing market and build equity. However, in recent years, the availability of starter homes has declined, and many potential homeowners are finding it increasingly difficult to purchase their first property. In this article, we will explore what has happened to starter homes in the USA and the factors that have contributed to their decline. What Are Starter Homes? Befor ..read more

As the name suggests, residential architects work on designing homes. However, each city has its set of regulations. In New Jersey, residential architects must conform to the New Jersey building codes. Residential structures like townhouses or two-bedroom houses conform to local ordinances such as zoning and the most recent 2018 International Residential Code New Jersey Edition. The other project categories are as follows: renovations, alterations, addition, and reconstruction. These are defined according to the New Jersey Department of Codes and Regulations under the Rehabilitation Sub-code ..read more

For every one of us, there are ways to incorporate sustainable living practices. You do not have to be perfect at these practices, but you can be educated. Now that sustainability is the need of the hour, you should gather as much information as you can to stay updated and play your part. Here are some of the most useful websites that you can use to stay informed. Top Websites for Sustainable Practice Through LEED Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design (LEED) is a green building certification program that comprises a set of rating scales and systems for the design, construction, and ma ..read more

A conversation with a residential architect might bring up passive design principles. Passive houses are now considered to be the highest energy efficiency standards. In comparison to conventional buildings, they consume around 85% less heating and cooling and can be applied to almost all kinds of designs. The following principles are central to passive house design: Airtight construction High-performance glazing Insulated structures Heat recovery ventilation Thermal bridge-free design Let us talk about these principles in more detail: Airtight Construction Unknown to homeowners, heat can a ..read more

Times have changed, and so has the weather. Last week we had a new-found spell of winter and the chaos that comes with it. Thousands found themselves out of power and heating. And most of these homes are dependent on electricity to keep them warm. A different approach is a must when it comes to winterizing your home. It could also save homeowners from expensive problems in the future. Winterizing your home could also potentially lead to a sustainable house and help reduce energy bills. Even residential architects recommend preparing your house for the cold as part of your home design. Winters ..read more