Your Back Deck “It’s Okay to Have a Little Fun with the Deck” The poor deck is one of the first to get watered down when the budget gets too high! In my world, the back deck is as important as any room in the apartment. Either take advantage [...]

What Is My Upper Level Address? “Don’t Get the Cart in Front of the Horse” This article may sound like a no-brainer, but I made the mistake. I worked hard and long converting my unused upper level space into a nicely-designed apartment. I was under the impression that I [...]

Upstairs Egress Bedrooms “Challenging but with Options” Determining the number of bedrooms one can design in an upper level building in the downtown district can be very challenging. If your building is not on the corner lot and has party walls on both sides, this requirement can be very [...]

Spray Foam over Brick Walls “The Best Application” Do you want the best possible insulation package for your downtown building? Closed cell spray foam insulation will provide you the best insulation system for your building; however we only use it on the walls. Spray foam creates such a tight [...]

Code-Compliant Guardrails “Guardrails - Handrails (Non-ADA)” This one isn’t too difficult, but I see it violated often. Let’s start by defining a guardrail as it pertains to a downtown building. “A protective barrier for all drop-offs greater than 30” in height.” Don’t confuse an ADA wheelchair ramp railing with [...]