Monthly Archives: June 2008

Shades of Green

Posted on June 27, 2008 by jeremybell

To date, the number one question, comment and critique of this project has been about our “green” commitment. Are we really being “eco-friendly”, or is this all just a vanity project? I suppose one wouldn’t put this all online if … Continue reading →

Posted in Eco / Green | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

Fawning Over Foundations

Posted on June 25, 2008 by jeremybell

When it comes to foundation construction in Canada, there are essentially 3 methods to consider: Block, Poured or ICF. Each is made with concrete, they all must be constructed on top of a concrete footing, and proper waterproofing, insulation and … Continue reading →

Posted in Construction, Eco / Green, Materials | Tagged , , , , | 8 Comments

Under The Garage

Posted on June 23, 2008 by jeremybell

I don’t believe this is particularly common, but we’re planning on building two extra rooms in our basement by excavating the space under our garage. In a typical garage, the floor is simply a concrete slab that sits on top … Continue reading →

Posted in Architecture & Design, Construction, Materials | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Day by Day

Posted on June 22, 2008 by jeremybell

After spending the better part of 2 hours trying to craft this into a witty and/or clever post, I’ve come to realize there isn’t a particularly glitzy way to spin this, so I’m just going to cut right to the … Continue reading →

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Elevation Evolution

Posted on June 16, 2008 by jeremybell

The design and layout of the new home has changed quite dramatically since we started this project. As I mentioned before, we had originally set out to build a rather “traditional” home, but we’re clearly very far from that point … Continue reading →

Posted in Architecture & Design | Tagged , , | 7 Comments

Energy Consultation

Posted on June 14, 2008 by jeremybell

As part of the design process, we’ve also begun working with an energy consultant who will help us define the HVAC system for the new house. The first step in defining the system is determining what the heating and cooling … Continue reading →

Posted in Construction, Eco / Green | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments

PPR Approved!

Posted on June 14, 2008 by jeremybell

Aside from a few small revisions, we’ve just been informed that our Preliminary Project Review has been approved by the city, and we will not have to go before the Committee of Adjustment. The Committee’s job (among other things) is … Continue reading →

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Kitchen Elevations

Posted on June 12, 2008 by jeremybell

Altius has definitely been busy. We’ve got updated elevations, updated floorplans, an electrical plan, and now they just finished the first draft of the kitchen elevations. Things are definitely moving along quickly now. I suppose I should also mention the … Continue reading →

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Window Update

Posted on June 12, 2008 by jeremybell

I just got back from a meeting with the architects, and I’ve got a few updates to share. First, we’ve decided on the windows – it’s looking like we’ll be going with Marvin Integrity windows throughout. They have pultruded fiberglass … Continue reading →

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Choosing an Architect

Posted on June 10, 2008 by jeremybell

First, let me say this – Choosing Altius has been the smartest decision I’ve made so far. They’ve been an absolute pleasure to work with, and I really can’t say enough about them. We certainly wouldn’t be building the home … Continue reading →

Posted in Architecture & Design | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments