The following article How to Plan and Design a Resort first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

As one of the most popular vacation destinations, resorts are places where people can experience endless recreation opportunities, incredible dining experiences, and additional amenities that many hotels do not have. While often seen as luxury lodging establishments, resorts are located in premier destinations, such as ski areas, beaches, and remote destinations. 

When planning a resort, architects strive to create an unforgettable environment that is also welcoming and relaxing to ensure that visitors make memories of a lifetime. Extraordinary resort designs begin with exceptional architectural engineering that considers how the building will blend with its environment.

Research and Conceptualization

Understanding the Resort’s Target Market and Location

The beginning stages of resort planning involve determining the guests who will frequent the resort and where the resort should be located. For example, is this resort a destination for families, or is it a place where only adults can relax? Understanding the resort’s target market will not only guide the initial design plans but also help pinpoint the ideal location for the resort.

Identifying Architectural Styles That Align with the Resort’s Theme

Whether the resort will be on the beach or in the mountains, research and conceptualization involve identifying various architectural styles that fit seamlessly with the resort’s theme. One example is a rustic mountain ski lodge in the snowy mountains of Utah.

Exploring Local Culture and History for Inspiration

Local culture and history should be considered when incorporating elements into the resort’s design. Because aesthetic appeal is critical to the success of a resort, architectural elements should include local building materials, and the buildings should blend effortlessly into the environment. Focusing on these elements will give visitors a memorable and unique experience that stands apart from the traditional hotel stay.

Sustainable Design Approach

Incorporating Green Building Principles and Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability is one of the most increasingly important elements of resort design, primarily as resorts aim to decrease their environmental impact. By incorporating sustainable design strategies into the resort’s design, architects can plan destinations that are not only environmentally friendly they’re also economically efficient.

Utilizing Renewable Energy Sources and Energy-Efficient Systems

Because of increasing renewable energy design strategies, resorts can utilize renewable energy sources and energy-efficient systems in plans. Many resorts focus on water conservation systems, passive cooling systems, and utilizing local materials. These innovations provide guests with a comfortable environment while using fewer local resources.

Creating a Symbiotic Relationship with the Natural Surroundings

When planning a resort or hotel, architects aim to create a symbiotic relationship with the surroundings. This means that architects design a resort that balances mutualism, a process where the environment and the building interact to benefit one another. When planning a resort with this symbiotic relationship in mind, it becomes much more than a building.

Site Analysis and Master Planning

The design for a resort begins with a site analysis, which allows architects to create a plan that considers the unique challenges and opportunities of the surrounding environment. The site analysis includes climate, landscape, topography, and cultural context.

The site analysis also helps to determine an optimal layout for the resort by incorporating space utilization. Architects can determine where to put the resort so it provides the most stunning views. The site analysis aims to learn how to artfully integrate architecture with landscaping and outdoor spaces.

Architectural Elements and Aesthetics

Everyone knows that first impressions are essential. The resort’s entrance should be a striking element that welcomes guests and sets the right tone for the entire stay from the beginning of their experience. Well-designed entrances beckon patrons to enter and see what else is inside. It also allows the architect to use unique architectural details to emphasize the resort’s identity. Above all, the goal of resort designs should be to balance functionality and aesthetics in every detail of the space.

Accommodation Design

Choosing the Right Room Types and Layouts for Guest Comfort

As one of the most critical decisions when designing a resort or hotel, architects must consider the layout of each room. Individual and communal spaces must be designed with functionality and comfort, giving patrons plenty of space for activities and relaxation.

Creating Private Retreats with Exceptional Resort Interior Design

The most successful resorts artfully join combined spaces with private retreats that give the guests experiences that don’t feel shared with all the other guests. Incorporating exceptional interior design should be paramount to creating an immersive and cohesive experience for guests and giving them a reason to return. You create a loyal customer base when you differentiate your property from competitors.

Incorporating Balconies, Terraces, or Verandas for a Connection to Nature

Every guest wants a view they can dream about after they leave the resort, such as stunning ocean sights they can enjoy throughout the day. Incorporate balconies, terraces, or verandas to provide an accessible way for guests to enjoy their surroundings without having to venture too far from their private rooms.

Signature Facilities and Amenities

Let’s talk about designing iconic facilities and amenities that stand out and define the resort.

Often, the amenities set one resort apart from the others, so it’s essential to focus on creating facilities that will define the resort. Surrounding architecture must merge seamlessly with the pool, dining, entertainment, and spa spaces to create an immersive experience. Incorporating innovative design throughout the resort, including recreational and wellness areas, creates a cohesive space for ultimate relaxation.

As one of the leading resorts in the Park City area, Stein Eriksen Lodge was created with unique amenities that residents can enjoy year-round. Guests can relax by two outdoor heated pools, experience the Champions Club Entertainment Center, and watch blockbusters in the Freestyle Theater.

Harmonious Integration with Nature

It’s become increasingly common to create a resort that brings local nature indoors in a beautiful way. This can be achieved by incorporating open-air suites, living green walls, and sustainable resort landscape architecture. By focusing on offering a harmonious integration with nature, hotels can center on maximizing natural light and ventilation, especially in indoor spaces. Incorporating local plants and vegetation into the design only increases this integration into nature and helps guests feel more immersed in the local environment.

Resort Sustainability and Resilience

Implementing Disaster-Resilient Design Strategies

One of the first steps in hotel design is studying risk factors beyond the resort’s control, such as tsunamis, wildfires, or earthquakes. This risk assessment should also include things that resort owners can control, like ensuring adequate exit routes and emergency supplies. After determining what risks can pose a problem for the resort, guests, and staff, emergency strategies should be incorporated to minimize disasters.

Creating Adaptable and Flexible Buildings for Future Needs

Modern architecture has quickly adapted to integrating flexible buildings that can be transformed and used for multiple purposes. Many architecture firms have embraced this adjustable approach for sustainability and practicality. Resorts can use adaptive building design to create limitless opportunities for recreation and unique amenities throughout the decades.

Evaluating Long-Term Maintenance and Lifecycle Considerations

Resort and hotel architects should determine the long-term maintenance needs of establishing a destination space and its impact on the local environment. In years past, architects and developers had little consideration for sustainability and longevity, leading to ill-thought-out plans and endeavors that were not long-lasting. Wise resort planning considers the resort’s lifecycle considerations and designs to help the resort thrive in different cycles.

Technology and Smart Design

Incorporating technology into planning gives your resort a competitive edge over others. Guests are consistently drawn to more convenient operation systems, such as mobile check-in, contactless payments, artificial intelligence, upgraded internet options, and more.

Modern resorts give guests ultimate control of their environment with smart room systems that allow for greater personalization. Guests can easily control temperature, lighting, and security features in seconds, allowing them to place settings exactly where they want them. Smart room systems not only help to save energy, but they also allow for better automation of systems since everything is connected. When integrating technology, the key is maintaining the balance of the resort’s architectural aesthetics.

Local Regulations and Building Codes

Navigating Local Building Codes and Regulations

Each locale has specific building codes and regulations that must be observed in the planning and building process. Because resort planning is complex, complying with these codes can be challenging. Nonetheless, a plan must be implemented to observe all building regulations for successful resort development.

Complying with Environmental and Cultural Preservation Requirements

Because of today’s focus on sustainability, architects are more responsible for complying with local environmental and cultural preservation requirements. When planning a resort, take into consideration ecological requirements. Not only is this wise for local environments, but it also helps your resort stand out.

Engaging with Local Architects and Professionals for Expertise

Calling upon the wisdom of local architects and professionals can make all the difference in the final design. These local professionals know the area well and can offer expertise in navigating building code complexities.

Collaboration and Project Management

Building a Cohesive Team of Architects, Designers, and Contractors

Developing an experienced team of architects, designers, and contractors who can work together toward a common goal is crucial to creating a thriving resort community. Cohesive teams have more effective communication, which results in solid project oversight. Having the same goals creates a unified project and increases the likelihood of a successful project that is finished on time.

Coordinating with landscape architects for a holistic approach

Involving landscape designers who focus on a holistic approach to design will allow guests to reconnect with surrounding outdoor spaces. Using design elements such as color, texture, line, and form, landscape architects create environments that emphasize the beauty of the surrounding environment while helping visitors enjoy the space.

Guest Experience and Architectural Impact

Guest expectations constantly evolve, requiring resorts to create a thoughtful design that can stand the test of time and enhance each guest’s experience. A well-planned resort is designed to be stunning, engage the senses, and evoke emotions. Creating immersive environments is not only critical to the success of the hotel, but it also encourages positive reviews and referrals from guests, which in turn establishes a more significant customer base.

Case Studies of Iconic Resort Architecture

Are you looking for some successful examples of iconic resort architecture? At Think Architecture, we’ve established many resorts that have stood the test of time. Browse through our resort and hotel architecture examples below:

• The Grand Lodge At Deer Valley Resort in Park City, UT
• La Chateaux at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, UT
• The Lodges At Deer Valley Resort in Park City, UT
• Stein Eriksen Lodge & Residences in Park City, UT
• Hotel Park City and Cottages
• Silver Strike Lodge in Park City, UT

Think Architecture: The Experts in World-Renowned Design

Think Architecture understands the importance of every element in resort planning. With over 90 years of combined practice in architecture, interior, and landscape design, we are at the forefront of innovative thinking. We understand the significance and task of getting it right, so we remain committed to creative design and innovative philosophy. See what our talented team can do for your project. Contact us today.

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The following article WELL Certification | Building Standards, Requirements & Benefits first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

The post WELL Certification | Building Standards, Requirements & Benefits appeared first on Think Architecture.

The following article Sustainable Landscape Design Principles first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

Sustainable landscape design strategically uses plants, materials, and other features to create a more environmentally friendly and efficient outdoor space. Create a more natural habitat with fewer toxins while reducing your maintenance and costs using the principles of ecological landscape design.

The landscape architects at Think Architecture are here to help. We care about sustainability and employ eco-friendly landscape design principles whenever we can. The designers at Think Architecture earned and maintain LEED accreditation by learning, practicing, and promoting sustainability strategies in our designs.

This guide to sustainable landscape architecture will explain how sustainable landscape design can benefit your home and lay out how to put environmental landscape design principles to work in your yard.

What is Sustainable Landscape Design?

Sustainable landscape design is the practice of crafting an outdoor space to comply with a set of principles that make it a functional, thriving, and ecologically-friendly yard. The main tenets of eco-friendly landscape design include reducing water consumption, soil erosion, and waste. Sustainable landscape architecture could consist of anything from a native plant garden to a rainwater collection station.

Benefits of Sustainable Landscape Design

Sustainable landscaping benefits you as well as the environment. It reduces the need for pesticides and fertilizers near your home. It requires less maintenance from you. It conserves water and reduces water pollution. And it fosters wildlife while remaining energy efficient.

Sustainable landscapes have a lot to offer, but to get those benefits, you’ll need the features that provide them. So, let’s take a closer look at some architectural components that can come from sustainable landscape design principles.

Components of Sustainable Landscape Design

Two of the main places you can put environmental landscaping to use are in your vegetation and the building materials you choose.

In the Garden

Green landscape design begins in the garden. Fortunately, sustainable gardening still gives you crop options.

Native Plants

Native plants are the vegetation that grows naturally in your local environment. Native plants have already adapted to thrive in the soil and climate of the area. Native plant landscaping requires less maintenance, fertilizer, and pesticides than non-native plants.

To follow sustainable landscape design principles, use native plants for a sustainable garden wherever it’s possible to do so. Think Architecture can help you create landscaping with Utah native plant species.

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Edible Gardens

Edible gardens are another great organic landscaping option for any outdoor space. Farming & growing plants that you can eat or use is one of the best ways to improve your landscape. You can’t go wrong with a fruit or vegetable garden. Not everything you grow has to be green to be a green landscape feature. If you have limited space, opt for an herb garden.

Wildlife Habitats

Another feature of environmental landscaping is a wildlife garden. Attract squirrels, birds, and butterflies to your yard by creating environments where animals can thrive. A garden, pond, marsh, or meadow could all work.

Rain Catchment

Before we leave the garden, let’s touch on a way to conserve water while keeping the plants hydrated—rainwater harvesting. Setting up a rain reclamation apparatus is a great way to save on water consumption. You could collect dozens of gallons of water from just an inch of rainfall. You can then use that water for your garden on dry days instead of water from your meter.

Hard Landscape Design Elements

Now that we’ve talked about what to grow for a green landscape let’s talk about the materials that can help further sustainable design principles.

Reclaimed Building Materials

Creating building materials, especially lumber can have a substantial environmental impact. You can reduce that impact by using reclaimed building materials for any of your outdoor structures. Use reclaimed materials whenever possible if you’re building a fence, retaining wall, or storage shed.

Low Maintenance Structures

Another way to reduce material consumption is by building structures that can last long with little maintenance or repairs. Use natural hedges instead of a fence. If you do build, use stone instead of wood when possible.

Water Conservation Design Elements

Employ water conservation strategies in your sustainable landscape design. Instead of covering the backyard with a lawn, opt for gravel or mulch. These materials can replace grass without creating a heat seal like concrete or asphalt. Landscaping using gravel, sand, mulch, and drought-tolerant plants is sometimes called Xeriscape design.

How to Create a Sustainable Landscape Design

Ready to put your newly learned sustainable landscape design principles to the test? Here’s how to get started.

Assess Your Space

You can apply sustainability principles to spaces of any size, but some features may work better than others for a given area. Understanding how much space you have to work with will help you choose which design elements to install.

Sustainable Landscaping Ideas for Small Spaces

If you have a small space, plant an herb garden or a butterfly garden. If the area is tight, you can create a vertical garden with crates or pots attached to a fence or wall.

Ideas for Large Space

If you have a large space, consider replacing all or most of the lawn with gravel or mulch. Plant a big vegetable garden and water it with rain you collect in your rain barrel. Share the food with the natural wildlife, friends, and neighbors.

Create a Sustainable Design Plan

Once you know what features will fit in your space, it’s time to map them out.

Select Plants

Choose the native plants you plan to grow. Decide if you’re harvesting fruits and vegetables or growing a garden of native flowers to make a feeding field for local pollinators. Talk to a local herbalist. They may be able to recommend other plants that supplement your plant well and further reduce the need for pesticides.

Choose Complementary Materials

Decide what material you plan to use for any ground fill. If you plan to erect any structures, search your local area for reclaimed materials. Sometimes you can even find them for free!

Create a Maintenance Schedule

Keep the benefits of sustainable landscape design rolling in yearly by maintaining the features you install. Start from day one with a clear plan for how you expect to retain your environmentally-friendly landscape.

Hire a Professional

With a plan in place, you’re ready for the landscaping crew to begin work. That’s where we come in. Think Architecture provides landscaping architecture services that fit your principles and your yard. Our LEED-certified architects know the materials and strategies needed to create a fantastic landscape that adheres to sustainable landscaping design principles.

Contact us today to learn more about how Think Architecture can help you create your dream sustainable landscape.

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The following article Sustainable Architecture and Housing Design first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

Why Sustainable Design Can Be the Most Interesting Design, Too

Limitations often breed creativity. Designing and constructing sustainable buildings is no exception. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the standards for sustainable building or green building. Meeting those standards while still creating appealing architecture forced builders, designers, and architects to get creative.

That creativity has resulted in some fantastic designs. Through innovation and research, builders have adopted many sustainable design principles as standard practices. They embrace the limitations of the standards while still creating eye-catching or uniquely functioning buildings. Today, sustainable homes and environmental architecture don’t just save energy; they look great too.

Sustainable architecture and sustainable design aren’t just about performance anymore.

According to the EPA, up to 30 percent of the energy consumed by commercial buildings is lost to waste. Sustainable design principles seek to reduce such waste through better materials and more efficient use of space and energy. Early on, the standards for sustainable buildings were more difficult to hit because there were fewer LEED-certified builders and fewer energy-efficient or renewable materials options. Today, sustainable buildings — particularly custom homes — are easier than ever to design and build to fit any owner’s specifications.

The long-term goal of designing a sustainable building remains the reduction of energy consumption, and advancements in high-performance materials and techniques now give designers more options. For example, improvements in the efficiency of solar energy technology continue to expand energy sources for sustainable housing. Embracing these and other modern advancements, architects now relish the challenge of designing a sustainable house or commercial building with the coolest energy-saving ideas and beautifully integrating the components they require.

Modern sustainable buildings don’t just reduce energy usage; they look great too.

Sustainable Home Design: The Sky’s the Limit

Enjoying a sustainable home doesn’t have to mean limiting yourself to living in prefabricated houses. People with a variety of tastes can now enjoy living sustainably.

Some of the most incredible innovations we’ve seen in sustainable architecture include the following examples:

Tesla Sustainable House

Tiny homes started becoming popular in the 2010s. Tesla jumped in on the trend and designed a tiny sustainable home.

The Tesla sustainable tiny home is about 140 square feet. It uses 100 percent renewable energy. It uses solar panels on the roof to absorb energy from the sun. Then, it stores that energy in its “Powerwall.” Tesla’s Powerwall is a wall with a self-contained battery and inverter. In the tiny house, the Powerwall can store solar energy so you can use it when needed.

You can also control the home’s energy system through the Tesla app. These homes were designed to be affordable, mobile, and efficient.

Passive Houses

Passive houses are homes designed to reduce energy consumption by up to 90 percent. They integrate the natural temperatures of the environment to contribute to overall energy efficiency. Passive houses employ modern energy-saving innovations, like using energy star materials, double-glazing windows, and installing efficient ventilation. They even use your body heat. Through precise engineering, passive houses use all the environmental features to create a comfortable home all year while using very little energy.

The Utah Clean Energy Commission promotes the development of buildings that can meet and surpass their own annual energy needs. Solar panels usually play a significant role in power generation for houses and commercial buildings that can meet that standard.

Renovate or design a sustainable building in Salt Lake City, Utah, or Utah County with help from Think Builders. Think Architecture is an accredited (LEED) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design firm focusing on creating sustainable architecture in Utah.

Sustainable Communities / Ecovillages

Ecovillages are small communities designed with sustainable housing and a like-minded focus on reducing their impact on the environment. Besides being energy efficient, ecovillages often also practice sustainable farming to reduce consumption further. Many even require cohabitation to lessen the demand for food and fuel.

Sustainable communities exist all over the United States, from the East Coast to the Pacific Northwest, but we particularly like the architecture of the Avalon Gardens & Ecovillage in Arizona. Along with its model of sustainability, the community features buildings of various shapes and styles that make for an interesting blend of nature and modern comfort.

Naturehoods

A “Naturehood” combines the idea of a traditional neighborhood with some of the sustainability concepts of Ecovillages. These communities feature individual sustainable luxury homes in traditionally agricultural areas near outdoor attractions.

The natural draw of the outdoors draws many people to these new Naturehoods. The Benloch Ranch community near Deer Valley Ski Resort in Park City, Utah, features quick access to various outdoor activities. Community residents live just minutes away from miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, a shooting range, an ice skating pond, and ski resorts.

Naturehoods allow for private living in places where you can enjoy nature while doing your part to preserve it. Give yourself unfettered access to the beauty of nature by building a luxury sustainable home in Utah with help from Think Architecture.

Environmental Architecture Firms Make Beautiful and Sustainable Housing Attainable

The simplest way to ensure sustainable housing remains stylistic is by working with building and design firms with experience creating energy-efficient buildings. You can find them by looking for firms with LEED accreditation.

Environmental architecture and sustainable design firms continually learn about the newest trends in both building and sustainability. They also regularly put them into practice in renovations and new construction. Architecture and building firms have the resources and manpower to keep up to date with all current local zoning and regulations. They can also get access to, and often better deals on, sustainable materials through relationships with vendors they’ve already established.

Don’t navigate the complex world of sustainable building design on your own. Get help from an expert team of builders.

Design Your Own Sustainable House with Think Architecture

Get started on your next sustainable building project in Utah with Think Architecture. Our building and design teams have the experience and knowledge to build your green and sustainable home or business while keeping your project moving quickly and on budget. Contact Think Architecture today!

The post Sustainable Architecture and Housing Design appeared first on Think Architecture.

The following article A Truly Sustainable Build Starts with a LEED-Accredited Architect first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

How Can LEED Certification Improve Your Property Value?

Improve the value of your building by working with a LEED-accredited architect. LEED-certified buildings continue to grow in demand. That demand increases the value of buildings that do achieve LEED certification. LEED-accredited architects, like those at Think Architecture, can improve the chances of your building receiving LEED certification and being a sustainable and economical investment for years to come.

Before you build, learn what LEED certification can do for your building and how a LEED-accredited architect can help you reach critical LEED certification requirements.

What Does “LEED-certified” Mean?

The LEED definition is simply an acronym. It stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is an international rating system for a building’s sustainability and efficiency. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC.org) developed the LEED rating system, and it means more than simply going green. It includes an extensive list of criteria—each with its own score. A building’s score for each criterion is then tallied to create the overall rating.

The USGBC and the LEED rating system was first developed in 1993 and has undergone several updates to keep up with new developments in its nearly 30-year history. 

Along with certifying buildings, the USGBC also provides LEED accreditation to individuals who master the LEED principles in planning, architecture, and construction. A LEED architect must prove they know the principles that buildings require to receive LEED accreditation. Along with bringing the knowledge to earn a better score for your building, working with LEED-accredited architecture firms automatically adds a point to your building’s rating. 

What are Some LEED-Certification Building Requirements?

The criteria in the LEED rating include specifics about a building’s water and waste management, location, and environmentally friendly product usage. Some of the requirements are as follows:

• Efficient water usage
• Improved air quality inside the building
• Improved energy efficiency
• Innovative solutions
• Location
• Lowered emissions of greenhouse gasses
• Lowered maintenance and operational costs
• More recycled materials used
• Resource usage optimization
• Site sustainability
• Transportation options

A building’s score in each category will contribute to its overall LEED rating system score. Your building must score at least 40 points in total to achieve LEED certification. 

What Are the Benefits of a LEED-Certified Building?

LEED certification brings value to your building in several ways. LEED buildings attract tenants and buyers. Some people like the savings they get by living or working in an energy-efficient building. Others like knowing their building was made from and/or uses sustainable, healthier materials. Still, others will take heart in knowing that a LEED certification signifies high-quality construction. Most will probably enjoy all aspects to some degree. 

The good news for building owners is that all the increased demand leads to higher rents and improves the building’s resale value. As the building owner, you can reap the benefits of the increased demand for LEED-certified buildings by Investing in LEED certification from the start and following the LEED guidelines set out by the USGBC. Considering the value that LEED certification adds to your building, the investment just makes sense.

Get help by working with a LEED-accredited professional like Tyler Kirk, one of the Principal Architects at Think Architecture. 

Why a LEED-Accredited Architect is Critical For Achieving Sustainable Design

Give your building the best chance to achieve LEED certification by working with a LEED-accredited architect. LEED-accredited architects must prove they understand LEED principles. This goes beyond just the building materials. The entire structure and layout of the building must incorporate efficient use of energy and environmental design that supports sustainable living. LEED-accredited architects study these principles and must pass both a LEED green associate (GA) exam and a LEED-accredited professional (AP) exam from Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI).

When it comes to getting your building LEED-certified, LEED-accredited architects have an advantage over non-accredited architects. They already know what the USGBC will look for when considering the LEED certification of your building. They have to. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be LEED-accredited architects. 

LEED-accredited architects can pilot your LEED project along, from building design and construction to post-operation guidance. Using a LEED-accredited architect, your building will even receive an extra point on the LEED rating.

If you want your building LEED certified, take advantage of the knowledge and expertise LEED-accredited architects have already proven they have.

LEED-Certification Levels

Not all LEED certifications are the same. The USGBC created LEED certification levels based on your building’s LEED rating score. 

LEED certification for buildings comes in four (4) levels based on your LEED rating score:

• 40-49 points = LEED Certified
• 50-59 points = LEED Silver
• 60-79 points = LEED Gold
• 80 points or more = LEED Platinum

While the certification itself is the most crucial aspect of the LEED system, every level up you can achieve will further separate your building from the competition.

What To Consider When Hiring A Green Architecture Firm

LEED professional credentials, including those for architects, come in three levels based on areas of specialization and experience in green building. The three LEED professional credential levels are as follows:

• LEED Green Associate
• LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with specialty
• LEED Fellow

LEED Green Associate

The LEED Green Associate level requires a current and documented understanding of modern green building practices. This is entry-level LEED certification.

LEED AP with Specialty

The LEED AP certification requires everything for a LEED Green Associate plus specialized work in a specific discipline. Some specialty LEED AP credentials include the following:

• LEED AP Building Design and Construction
• LEED AP Operations and Maintenance
• LEED AP Interior Design and Construction
• LEED AP Neighborhood
• LEED AP Home

Earning a LEED AP certification will require passing a LEED AP exam in your specific discipline.

LEED Fellow

The highest level of LEED certification, a LEED Fellow must have a LEED AP with a specialty credential and at least ten years of experience in professional green building. They must also be nominated for accreditation by their peers.

You can apply for LEED status on both new and old buildings. Getting your building LEED certified is a simple process.

1. Complete and submit the form and the payment to register your project for consideration.
2. Complete and submit an application and pay the application review fee.
3. Wait while the GBCI reviews your LEED application.
4. If you qualify, GBCI will send you your LEED certification.

While that’s all it may take, you’ll improve your building’s chances of earning certification by taking one step before the standard application process. Get help from LEED-accredited architects at think architecture to plan and build your LEED building.

Start Your Next Sustainable Building Project with Think Architecture!

Our LEED Accredited architects know how to get and implement everything you need for LEED certification during the design and build process and beyond. We can keep you on track through the whole process. We’ll use non-toxic, renewable materials to design your project for energy efficiency and even give you an extra point on your building’s LEED certification rating.

Put the LEED-accredited architects at Think Architecture to work on your building. We have the experience to complete your design and construction quickly and efficiently. We have industry contacts to ensure you get everything you need to keep your LEED certification on track.

Contact the experts at Think Architecture today and get started on your LEED-certified building.

The post A Truly Sustainable Build Starts with a LEED-Accredited Architect appeared first on Think Architecture.

The following article N. H. Rather Joins Think Architecture as Associate Principal first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

Think Architecture is proud to announce a recent acquisition and addition to its team. N.H. Rather, former Principal of the Lehi firm Rather Architecture, recently joined Think as an Associate Principal. Rather, a 15-year veteran in architectural design, owned Rather Architecture for 10 years before his recent move. There, he built a substantial portfolio of medical and commercial tenant improvement projects, working primarily with some of Utah’s leading dental and orthodontic brands.

Tyler Kirk, Principal at Think Architecture, says adding Rather to the team is a win-win for both parties. “We were excited to add Rather’s experience in the medical industry to our team’s capabilities; we know his expertise will help us grow that area of our business. However, we also saw this as an opportunity to support Rather in growing his career. Bringing him onboard makes him part of a bigger machine where his proven capabilities can now be applied to larger-scale projects.” For Rather, he sees the move as the start of a new phase of his career: “I’m thrilled to be part of the Think team. I’ve had great respect for the people here and their projects for many years. It’s a privilege to work with such talented colleagues. I love the energy and passion for design that is so evident here, and I look forward to creating wonderful projects with our partners and clients.”

Think Architecture is one of Salt Lake City’s leading architecture and design firms, proudly serving Utah as well as 15 additional states. Their comprehensive services include commercial and residential architecture, landscape architecture, land planning, interior design, and construction management. For more information about the Think Architecture team, visit www.thinkaec.com/team/.

The post N. H. Rather Joins Think Architecture as Associate Principal appeared first on Think Architecture.

The following article Drought Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Utah first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

Drought Tolerant Landscaping in Utah

Drought-tolerant landscaping has become increasingly popular in Utah within the past few years and with good reason. According to Utah Hazard Mitigation, Utah is the second driest state in the United States, with an average of 13 inches of annual precipitation. With drought and water shortages increasing across Utah and the western United States, many people are turning to drought-tolerant landscaping to conserve water while beautifying their yards at the same time. This article will discuss everything you need to know about drought-resistant landscaping, from design to the plants you can incorporate.

What is Drought-Tolerant Landscaping?

Let’s start with the basics. What is a drought? A drought is a prolonged period of dryness, specifically one that prevents the growth of vegetation or damages crops. It’s generally caused by a lack of rainfall and water in the atmosphere. In response to drought, many homeowners and businesses are turning to a landscape that helps conserve water. Drought-tolerant landscaping is a type of landscaping designed to thrive with little to no supplemental water. It usually consists of hardscapes, rocks, native plants, and low-maintenance landscape features that can withstand low-water conditions.

Drought-Tolerant Utah Landscape Design

While it might seem challenging to find drought-resistant plants fitting for the Utah landscape, there are a surprising number of drought-tolerant plants, some of which are native to the area and are beautiful in any Utah landscape design.

Drought-Tolerant Plants

Native Utah plants are not only drought-resistant, but they’re also a great addition to any landscape. In addition, they’re often strongly disease-resistant and attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds. Here are a few of our favorite drought-tolerant plants in Utah:

Yucca

Yucca | Utah Native Drought-Resistant Plant

A stunning statement piece in any landscape design, deep-rooted yucca are some of the most beautiful full-sun drought-tolerant plants. This is partly because the long tap roots make them particularly drought-resistant and hardy in zones 4-10.

Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental Grass | Drought Tolerant Plant

Many types of ornamental grasses thrive in the full sun and with little water. Some can even thrive in partial shade, making them an excellent option for various landscape designs. With thick roots that conserve water, they’re great for any dry spots in the garden.

Jupiter’s Beard 

Jupiter’s Beard | Drought-Tolerant Plant

Jupiter’s beard, also known as red valerian, is an ever-blooming flower with tiny clusters of dark flower heads and deep-green foliage. This incredibly low-maintenance plant thrives with minimal water and is popular with pollinators.

Sedum

Sedum | Drought Resistant Plant

There are several different varieties of sedum, each appropriate for various areas of the landscape. However, they’re all manageable in Utah’s dry landscape and offer a unique interest in landscape design.

Lavender

Lavender | Drought Tolerant Flowers

Lavender is a hardy plant that requires very little attention throughout the growing season and is a beautiful addition to any Utah landscape design. This pollinator plant offers soft scents and bright blossoms.

Drought-Tolerant Trees

Trees that can withstand heat and require little water are the backbone of Utah landscape design. Choosing drought-resistant trees helps conserve water and add pops of color to the landscape. As a bonus, we all know they’re great for providing much-needed shade.

Blue Spruce

Blue Spruce | Drought Tolerant Tree

Designated as Utah’s first state tree, the blue spruce is a beautiful drought-resistant tree. It provides winter interest and serves as a visible accent in any landscape.

Japanese Zelkova

Japanese Zelkova | Drought Resistant Tree

The Japanese zelkova is a tough, drought-resistant residential shade tree. They are disease-resistant and often used as a substitute for elm trees because of their similar appearance.

Utah Juniper

Utah Juniper | Utah Native Drought Tolerant Tree

As one of the most drought-tolerant plants in Utah, the juniper is a busy, native tree that produces small berries that serve as food for birds. It adds a beautiful, evergreen interest to any landscape.

Pinyon Pine

Pinyon Pine | Utah Native Drought Resistant Tree

This water-thrifty pine tree is a small tree that looks great in any landscape design. Common in the deserts of the Great Basin region, this tree is hardy in zones 4 to 8 and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.

Drought-Tolerant Ground Cover

Planting drought-tolerant ground covers add valuable vegetation to the area and a pop of color and texture to the landscape design. Some of these options are also great for areas where landowners want to remove & replace their grass with a more drought-tolerant turf option.

Yarrow

Yarrow Achillea | Drought Tolerant Ground Cover

This low-growing ground cover has soft, feather-shaped leaves with flower stalks that grow upward. This drought-resistant plant quickly spreads to fill an area with green foliage and beautiful flowers.

Hens and Chicks

Hens and Chicks | Drought-Resistant Ground Cover

These low and slow-growing succulents fill in a landscape, growing in empty areas in rock gardens, stone paths, and rock walls. While hens and chicks aren’t a ground cover you can walk on, they make excellent plants for filling in a full-sun area of your garden landscape.

Creeping Thyme

Creeping Thyme | Drought Tolerant Ground Covering

With many available varieties on the market, creeping thyme is a flat plan that spreads to cover the area like a carpet. As a bonus, bees love creeping thyme when it blooms.

Ice Plant

Ice Plant | Drought Resistant Ground Cover

With some of the most striking and perhaps heat-tolerant blooms in Utah, ice plants are excellent ground covers that beautify any space. They come in a wide variety of colors, too.

White Clover

White Clover | Drought Tolerant Turf Option

The clover root system is a steady supply of nitrogen to the soil, which is beneficial for any plant growth in the area. White clover is drought-tolerant and will not overcrowd grass, making it a great addition to already-existing turf areas.

Drought-Tolerant Shrubs

There are quite a few shrubs that are perfect for low-moisture environments such as Utah. Here are a few of our drought-resistant shrubs that can provide privacy, texture, and plenty of color around the yard.

Rose of Sharon

Rose of Sharon | Drought Tolerant Shrub

Established rose of Sharon plants can tolerate little moisture and are a stunning addition to any landscape. The shrub produces paper-like flowers that come in a variety of colors.

Butterfly Bush

Butterfly Bush | Full Sun Drought Tolerant Plant

This low-maintenance deciduous shrub features fragrant purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to mid-fall. It’s a showstopper that is a great focal point in any water-wise landscape.

Russian Sage

Russian Sage | Drought Tolerant Utah Native Plant

This bushy purple plant is one of the most drought-tolerant plants in Utah. In fact, it thrives in dry, poor soil and rarely needs to be water once established. The spiky, purple foliage attracts many pollinators and is attractive in many landscapes.

Sagebrush

Sagebrush | Drought Tolerant Plant

While it’s one of the most common plants in the Utah landscape, it can be a stunning addition to any urban landscape. As a bonus, it only needs the rain that falls from the sky; there’s no need to give it any additional water.

Water-Wise Botanicals and Drought-Tolerant Plants: Is There a Difference?

When you begin researching and planning drought-tolerant landscaping, you may come across many different definitions and references, including water-wise landscaping, water-saving landscaping, water-efficient landscaping, sustainable landscaping, and xeriscaping. Though each term is slightly nuanced, they all generally mean the same: landscaping a specific area with hardscaping and heat- and drought-tolerant plants that need little water.

When the terms water-wise and drought-tolerant are applied to plants, perennials, succulents, grasses, and trees, it simply means that the plant has adapted to an arid climate and requires little water to grow and thrive. Representatives from various Utah State and city organizations define water-wise plants as:

• Water conserving
• Adapted to Utah’s arid climate and cold winters
• Available in Utah nurseries and garden centers
• Relatively easy to maintain
• Continue to live and grow even under limited water availability

Water-Wise Botanicals

Planning a water-saving landscape does not mean it will be dull or devoid of color. You can use many colorful drought-tolerant plants and Utah flora to beautify your water-wise landscape, including drought-tolerant flowers and flowering plants. Explore our list of water-wise plants below.

Full Sun Drought-Tolerant Perennials

Many full-sun drought-tolerant plants thrive in Utah’s arid climate. Below we’ve listed a few of our favorite full-sun drought-tolerant perennials, which grow back every year in the spring:

Blue Star | Full Sun Drought Tolerant Perennial

Blue Star

Also known as Amsonia schistosum, Blue Star are native plants to the Midwest and have blue, purple, or white flowers in the spring and beautiful colors in the fall.

Red Hot Poker | Full Sun Drought Tolerant Perennial

Red Hot Poker

Red hot pokers are hardy, showstopping flowers known for their tall spiky flowers in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows.

Hummingbird’s Trumpet | Full Sun Drought Tolerant Perennial

Hummingbird’s Trumpet

Also known as Zauscheria or orange carpet, Hummingbird’s Trumpets are excellent groundcover plants with small, striking red and orange tubular flowers attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and moths and are good for erosion control.

Daylily | Full Sun Drought Tolerant Perennial

Daylilies

Daylilies are rugged and adaptable flowers that require little care to thrive. They come in various sizes and colors and resemble lilies, though they are not actually lilies.

Tulip | Full Sun Drought Tolerant Perennial

Tulips

Tulips are perennials and will return and bloom for 3-5 years. They are low-water plants whose bulbs will rot if exposed to too much water in the summer.

Drought-Tolerant Perennials for Shaded Areas

These drought-tolerant flowering plants love the shade and will thrive in shady, water-wise gardens.

Columbine | Drought Tolerant Perennial for Shaded Areas

Columbine

There are dozens of different species and colors of Columbine, and many love the dappled shade. They are also alpine plants that will grow as wildflowers in sunny meadows in higher altitudes.

Bergenia | Drought Tolerant Perennial for Shaded Areas

Bergenia

Heartleaf Bergenia is known for its hardiness. It forms in clumps. In early spring, it grows large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves with thick red stems and clusters of red, white, and deep-pink flowers.

Yellow Corydalis | Drought Tolerant Perennial for Shaded Areas

Yellow Corydalis

Yellow Corydalis blooms tiny, yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers and has fern-like leaves. This plant loves full shade and will bloom in late spring to early fall.

Cranesbill Geranium | Drought Tolerant Perennial for Shaded Areas

Cranesbill Geranium

These beautiful, hardy geraniums have long bloom seasons and come in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, purple, and white.

Coral Bells | Drought Tolerant Perennial for Shaded Areas

Coral Bells

Coral Bells are a great plant selection that offers beauty and variety to water-wise gardens. They are known best for their striking foliage throughout the summer and fall.

Utah’s Sustainable Landscape Design Experts

If you’re planning on creating your own drought-free oasis or a low-maintenance drought-tolerant front yard, trust the experts at Think Architecture. Our award-winning Utah landscape architects create innovative urban landscapes. These environmentally conscious landscape designs feature drought-tolerant plants that are native to Utah to ensure long-term sustainability. Contact us today to get started on your landscape design.

Drought Tolerant Landscaping FAQs

What are drought resistant plants?

What is the scientific drought resistance definition? Technically speaking, drought resistance is a broad term for a feature that allows a plant to tolerate and thrive in environments with little to no water over a certain period of time. Drought-tolerant plants maintain their biomass in arid conditions and naturally adapt to dry environments.

Are boxwoods drought tolerant?

As a staple in many landscape designs around the country, boxwoods are incredibly drought-resistant and resilient evergreen shrubs. Once established, they need very little water to survive. With many different types of boxwoods available, they’re easy to incorporate into many different landscape designs.

What are water-wise plants?

Water-wise plants are types of plants that are adapted to thrive in areas with limited water supply or are capable of conserving water efficiently. These plants have specific characteristics that allow them to survive in an arid climate and require less water than other plants. They conserve water, are relatively easy to maintain, and continue to flower and flourish even under limited water availability.

Some common traits of water-wise plants include:

Drought tolerance: These plants have adaptations that allow them to survive extended periods of drought, such as deep root systems, succulent leaves or stems, or the ability to go dormant during dry spells.

Water conservation: Water-wise plants often have thick, waxy leaves that reduce water loss through transpiration, or they may have small leaves that help to minimize water loss. Additionally, many water-wise plants have adaptations that allow them to capture and store water, such as specialized stems or leaves.

Adaptability: Many water-wise plants are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, pH levels, and temperatures. This makes them ideal for use in areas with fluctuating environmental conditions.

Examples of water-wise plants include cacti, succulents, yuccas, agaves, lavender, and rosemary. Planting water-wise plants in your garden or landscaping can help to conserve water and create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape.

What is water-wise landscaping?

Water-wise landscaping, also known as xeriscaping or drought-tolerant landscaping, is a landscaping approach that focuses on conserving water and creating beautiful, sustainable landscapes that are well-adapted to the local climate. Water-wise landscaping is particularly important in areas with limited water resources or drought-prone areas like desert landscapes.

Water-wise landscaping involves several vital principles, including:

Designing for the local climate: Water-wise landscapes are designed to be well adapted to the local climate, taking into account factors such as average temperature, rainfall, and soil type. This helps to ensure that plants and other landscaping elements thrive with minimal irrigation systems.

Plant selection: Selecting drought-tolerant and drought-resistant plants that are well adapted to the local climate is a key component of water-wise landscaping. These plants require less water, are more resilient to drought, and require less maintenance than water-intensive plants.

Soil improvement: Improving soil quality is an important component of water-wise landscaping. By adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil, water retention is increased, which helps to reduce water needs.

Efficient irrigation: Water-wise landscaping often involves the use of efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, which deliver water directly to the plant roots with minimal evaporation or runoff.

Mulching: The use of mulch, such as wood chips or shredded leaves, helps to retain moisture in the soil and reduce evaporation, which in turn reduces the need for watering.

Water-wise landscaping is an environmentally responsible and cost-effective approach to landscaping that can help to conserve water, reduce maintenance costs, and create beautiful and sustainable outdoor spaces.

The post Drought Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Utah appeared first on Think Architecture.

The following article How to Navigate High Construction Costs first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

High Construction Costs Don’t Have to Stop Progress on Your Next Project!

Navigating the construction and real estate markets over the past few years has not been easy. The increased demand for materials and supply chain interruptions mean that the uncertainty around the construction industry is sure to continue. In fact, as labor and material costs continue to rise, CBRE’s Construction Cost Index predicts a 14.1% year-over-year increase in construction costs by the end of 2022.

There is hope on the horizon, though, with predictions of high inflation costs of materials cooling at the end of 2022 and starting to return to normal levels by mid-2023. Supply chain interruptions are also predicted to lighten. While construction costs may be high, that doesn’t mean you can’t move forward with your construction plans. The current moment presents an excellent opportunity to advance progress on your plans while waiting for costs to cool down.

Why is Now a Great Time for Architectural Planning?

Instead of waiting for prices to stabilize before beginning your project, now is the perfect time to start working on architectural planning. Depending on the size of your build, architectural planning can take months or even years to complete and finalize. This part of the process involves several stages of strategy and planning. Here are 3 reasons why now is the perfect time to complete this phase of the process:

1.) You’ll have more time to develop a relationship with your architect

Establishing a good relationship with your architect is one of the most essential elements of planning a successful project. Your architect can get a better feel for your goals and preferences for the design phase.

2.) You won’t be rushed

Rushing to make a decision before a deadline is something that no one really wants to do. Any hurried decisions might lead to poor planning or regrets later on in the project.

3.) You’ll have time to plan for cost adjustments and come up with alternatives

As you move forward with plans, you’ll have time to watch the market and cost of certain construction materials and make changes according to your budget. Instead of being rushed to meet a deadline, you can weigh all your pros and cons against what’s currently available on the market.

The Stages of Architectural Planning

In addition to the pre-design phase, five total architectural design phases are needed to complete a successful project. In the pre-design phase, your architect aims to learn as much as possible about your projects, such as your specific needs and the intended function of the space. We determine how much space is currently required and what will be needed in the future. The pre-design phase includes land surveys, zoning, and architecture site plan analysis.

Phase 1: Schematic Design

The first stage of design is known as schematic design. In this stage, architects develop the size and shape of the building. Think of schematic design as a rough draft of how the building will look and operate. It includes many sketches, meetings with clients, and basic architectural design.

Phase 2: Design Development

In this phase, the owner and architect work together to choose materials, including exterior products and finishes. Drawings in this phase will include more details such as dimensions and any necessary notes for the builder. Engineering on plumbing, electrical, energy analysis, and ventilation systems will begin during the design development phase. The exterior will be fully designed with the interior floor plans completed. If you already have a general contractor selected for the project, they can provide a rough cost estimate once these early design stages are complete. This early estimate can help you finalize project development within budget.

Phase 3: Construction Documents

During the construction documents phase, all designs are finalized, such as technical design and engineering. Construction documents are compiled that include the dimensions, details, and notes required to communicate the design to the contractor. Specific details are included, such as specifications on fixtures, materials, equipment, and any appliances.

Phase 4: Bidding

At this stage, the owner begins to select a contractor for the job (if one is not already chosen) and sign contracts to start the construction process. It’s normal to submit bids to multiple contractors to receive competitive offers, and the architect will often assist the client with this process.

Phase 5: Construction Administration

Even though much of the architect’s work is completed before the building begins, it’s still important for the architect to be involved in the construction process. Architects will often visit the job site regularly to answer any of the builder’s questions and address any potential construction issues. Some architects, such as Think Architecture, also offer construction management services that provide clients with comprehensive support from design through construction completion.

Top Factors to Consider During Architectural Planning

While having extra time during the architectural planning phase can be a big benefit, there are some potential drawbacks to consider during the planning process. It’s important to be aware of these in case they affect your own project.

1.) Potential project revisions

As the architectural planning phase continues, so does the potential for potential project revisions. While it might not be inconvenient for everyone, revisions could mean delays and additional costs to the project.

2.) Changing construction requirements or municipal regulations

As time goes on, municipalities might pass additional laws or change code requirements that could affect your project, requiring additional revisions to plans and increasing construction prices.

Make Progress on Your Next Project with Think Architecture

Don’t stall on your next project because construction prices are higher than normal. Instead, start working with an architecture firm today to get your plans in place so you’re ready to start construction when the time is right.

With a combined experience of more than 90 years in the industry, Think Architecture has expertise in land planning, architecture, and land design. We are full-service architects who have established a progressive workplace for creative design and innovative thinking. In addition to our architecture services, we offer interior design, land use planning, and construction management. Many of our architects are members of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which means they are dedicated to providing quality design, improving our environment, and safeguarding the public. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

The post How to Navigate High Construction Costs appeared first on Think Architecture.

The following article The Future of House Design | Futuristic Homes first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

House Design of the Future: What Will It Look Like?

Architecture is an art and a science. It balances design and engineering to create living spaces that speak to us on a human level. A big part of the human spirit is the drive to discover and create new ways of looking at and inhabiting the world. That spirit of discovery feeds our ambitions. It’s what drove us to develop rockets that can send us beyond the bounds of the earth. It also provides ongoing interest in futuristic design.

Futuristic home design first became popular in the 1950s. In the decades following World War II came the space age. In general, society embraced the feeling of new beginnings brought on by the war’s end. The rapid development of technology as we raced to the moon showed that we were living in a new modern age. People were looking to the future and imagining what could come next with great anticipation. The spirit of the space age and the embrace of technology were reflected in the futuristic house designs. They have continued ever since.

As technology changes, so do the parameters of futuristic design. However, some of the driving principles behind futuristic architecture remain the same. Architects to this day still work on designing the home of the future. Let’s explore some of what designing a futuristic home means today.

Futuristic Homes

Since the beginning of the futuristic architecture movement, people have been prognosticating what tomorrow may bring and using their imaginations to influence their thoughts on designing houses of the future.

Futuristic architecture tends to incorporate nontraditional shapes into home designs. It uses long, often curved lines. The idea is to evoke sleekness and utility. Futuristic houses also tend to feature less traditional building materials, like glass, leather, metal, and plastic.

Technology also plays a significant role in designing for the future. Futuristic home design architects also need to consider and anticipate technological developments that may affect houses of the future. Futuristic houses will be homes to futuristic people. They will likely want all the convenience of modern technology integrated into the design of their home. However, the home’s functionality should work hand in hand with the stark, sleek futuristic design.

Futuristic Home Architecture

While many of the concepts that evoke futuristic design remain consistent, futuristic home styles could have a variety of themes, like nature, outer space, or sustainability. These themes combine with the basic ideas of futuristic design and manifest in various ways in a specific building.

Futuristic floor plans are also nontraditional. Rooms may be rounded and not have a clearly identifiable shape. Some futuristic houses eliminate hallways and staircases.

In densely populated areas, futuristic designs could embrace the more sci-fi theme by coming in modular blocks that can stack together to create modern buildings, almost like building actual structures like assembling a Lego creation.

Rooms in a futuristic home should accommodate the utility needs of modern living. Kitchens should have plenty of power outlets and even built-in USB outlets. The porch should be wired for a doorbell cam, and the whole house should be set up to incorporate smart home technology. Don’t forget to include a charging station for an electric car in the garage.

Futuristic Home Interior Design

The architecture will only get you part of the way to a futuristic house. You’ll need some futuristic interior design to take your futuristic home across the finish line.

The futuristic home design generally sees minimalistic design and decor. The shapes are usually strikingly geometric or starkly not geometric. They often feature large areas of uninterrupted color accented by a deliberate contrasting color in another part of the room. The base colors are often black, white, or gray. The accent colors may also be black, white, or gray, along with red, yellow, blue, or green.

Your futuristic, modern house won’t look cutting edge if it’s filled with furniture from a decade ago. Furnish your futuristic home with unique features that accent the futuristic look of your home. In some cases, futuristic homes adopt a retro theme that incorporates styles from the 50s, 60s, 70s, or 80s. In these cases, using period-specific furniture is appropriate.

Use dark or accent colors on the furniture in your futuristic home interior.

Futuristic Home Decor

A futuristic home interior will vary significantly by theme. The more consistent you can stay with your theme, the more futuristic your home will look.

Keep decorations to a minimum. While staying consistent from piece to piece is important, don’t overdo it with the decorations. Remember, the future is minimalist and utilitarian. When you decide to incorporate some art into your futuristic home design, look for surrealist paintings and sculptures that toy with geometric concepts.

Futuristic Landscaping

Establishing the futuristic feel begins before you get inside the house. Futuristic landscape architecture often incorporates the home or other buildings on the property into the land itself. Is that a rolling hill? No, it’s a futuristic house built into the countryside landscape. This type of futuristic landscape design feature is more common among nature-themed futuristic homes.

Some futuristic homes incorporate modern organic architecture, using trees and bushes as structural, decorative, or utilitarian elements of the house.

Future House Style Trends

Futuristic homes vary greatly. While a few commonalities bind them together into the same design category, the themes used from building to building keep each futuristic home looking unique.

That’s why you can find a variety of futuristic houses, including the following:

Retro-Futuristic Houses

Modern Nature Houses

Sci-Fi Futuristic Houses

Design Your Futuristic House with Think Architecture

As you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to futuristic home design. However, if you want a unique, futuristic-looking home, pick a theme and follow some basic principles.

Contact Think Architecture to help design your futuristic home. We have a deep portfolio of architectural accomplishments and are always on top of modern trends. We understand the elements of futuristic design and can apply them to help you achieve a sleek futuristic home with the theme of your choice.

Stop living in the past. Design a futuristic home with the help of Think Architecture.

See How Think Architecture is Already Using Some of These Trends

Think Architecture is at the forefront of architectural design trends and green architecture. View our portfolio and our past projects to see how we have incorporated some of these techniques into our designs.

View Our Portfolio

The post The Future of House Design | Futuristic Homes appeared first on Think Architecture.

The following article Home Automation Ideas first appeared on Think Architecture - Utah Architecture Firm in Salt Lake City, UT

Smart Home Automation, Trends, and Features to Consider

These home automation ideas and smart home features provide Utah residents with convenience, comfort, and autonomous security. Think Architecture can help you add these useful new features to your home designs.

Smart Thermostat

Transform your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system into a climate control machine with a smart thermostat.

Smart thermostats can create the perfect environment in your home even as temperatures change throughout the day. A smart thermostat doesn’t just keep a room at a single temperature. A smart thermostat can learn the temperatures you like in different parts of the day and adjust accordingly. You can also program your smart thermostat to change the room’s temperature at different times of the day. You can set up different temperature zones for different areas in your home or the people living there.

Smart Locks

Add an extra layer of security and convenience to your home by upgrading to smart locks.

Smart locks are part electronic and part mechanical. They can integrate with an automated home security system to provide additional security in your home. Residents with smart locks can use their smartphone or an electronic key fob to unlock their doors and gain entry to the house without needing an additional metal key.

Smart Ceiling Fans

Stay fresh with the perfect circulation you can get with smart ceiling fans.

Like smart thermostats, smart ceiling fans shape the atmosphere in your home. You can program your smart ceiling fans to spin one way to draw in the fresh morning air and then turn the other in the afternoon to push out the hot, stale air. And, of course, your smart ceiling fans can create the perfect calming breeze to soothe you to sleep at night.

Filling your home with excellent air circulation from your smart ceiling fans can literally be a breath of fresh air.

Integrated Speakers

Never miss a moment of what’s happening in your home with a smart sound system and integrated speakers.

Listen to your music on speakers with excellent fidelity, then switch to your home theater and get that same great sound while immersing yourself in the latest binge-watch craze. Control it all from a central online interface you can access on your smartphone.

Integrate the speakers with your home security system to use them as part of the home’s intercom system.

Innovative Power Outlet Placement

Keep your gadgets and smart home appliances running by designing your smart home’s power layout with modern needs in mind.

Install power outlets where they are needed. With more smart devices, you may find you require outlets in different places than where traditional homes had them. Install power outlets wherever you might need them for a smart device or electronic charger.

Consider where all your smart speakers will go and where people might sit and need a charger handy. Also, consider adding some outlets at eye level instead of near the floor. They can be perfect for powering control panels, many of which have video displays.

Smart Plugs

Make your regular appliance smarter with smart plugs.

Smart plugs go into the power outlets. They can connect to your smart home system and control the power supply to whatever you plug into them. They can help integrate your traditional appliances into your smart home.

Smart Lighting & Smart Lights

Enjoy added safety, security, and ambiance flexibility with smart lighting.

Smart lights can include indoor and outdoor lighting. The indoor lights help protect you from injury by making the stairs a little less treacherous to navigate when you go down for your midnight snack. They can also turn on the lights in the house when the garage door opens. The outdoor lights add to your security by shining a light on would-be intruders before they strike. They can also light up your walkway whenever the door is opened at night.

You can pre-program your smart lights and integrate them with your smart home system to light up rooms and areas in your home based on the time of day, the person in the room, or even to preset moods. You can also set up your smart lights with motion sensors, which come on whenever they detect someone approaching. And, of course, you can control it all through a control panel on your smartphone.

Smart Home Hub

Keep all your smart home features working in harmony with a top-rate smart home hub.

Smart homes work best when all the features can work together. A smart home hub keeps all your smart home automation in sync. So, when it’s time for bed, your smart home hub can help your smart thermostat, smart lights, and smart fans create your ideal sleeping environment. It can also arm your security system and lock your doors simultaneously.

From hubs that take voice commands, like Google Nest, or Amazon Echo, to custom smart home hubs with graphical interfaces designed for your specific home and system, smart home hubs come in a wide variety. Some are even part smart hub and part smart feature, like Amazon’s new Echo Show.

The post Home Automation Ideas appeared first on Think Architecture.