Archive for the ‘Our Mission’ Category

Building Information Modeling… What is it? Why should an owner, architect or contractor care about it?

October 21st, 2011

First introduced in 1987 and not truly a “new” technology, Building Information Modeling is computable information rich architectural 2D and 3D data model. The acronym BIM came about in 2002. It is an evolving concept and one that continues to change as the technology advances.  It offers advantages in time and cost with a much greater accuracy and the avoidance of error due to design alterations.  BIM is a process and one of collaboration between each team member.

Throughout the design and construction process, the project is passed through multiple team members. From the architect who developed the design, to the contractor …

Efficiency doesn’t have to mean a small space.

October 6th, 2011

When people think of efficiency they think of efficiency apartments that are typically 300-450 sq. ft. in the US. However, efficiency doesn’t have to mean a small space, but it does require some small details.

If you live in a cooler region, take a look at new houses being built. In all likelihood there won’t be very many windows on the north- or south-facing walls. By grouping windows on the east- and west-facing walls, the house becomes more efficient because it can use the sun’s natural light to brighten the house and also lower the heating costs.

Details Make All of the Difference

September 22nd, 2011

When you think of architecture, you likely picture the icons of skyscrapers and other interior spaces. All of the small details permanently affixed to the exterior of the building and how a space makes you feel. However, who determined that they should be there? The obvious answer is the Architect that designed the building or structure, but likely they didn’t do it alone. And those are just the exterior details! You also have to take into consideration the complete design and construction details that led to the final product.

At Škoda Design+Architecture, we pride ourselves on the smallest …