Artists Studio Update /  by Wilkens Design Studio

There is a good dose of satisfaction that comes from working with Clients who also choose to build their projects themselves. Luckily the projects are usually smaller, but they have unique requirements or design challenges. The satisfaction from working with an Owner-Builder is that they are very keen to understand the construction process. This can come in the form of a frantic call about the placement of concrete or a lively exchange about the availability of this material over that one, or the best price at places like Lowes, Home Depot, Menards, etc. I feel that I learn a lot about how I design and deliver my work to non-professionals through these projects - and also feel that much closer to the construction process.

To wit:  the Artist's Studio to-be is shown below in all its current glory as it awaits delivery of SIPS panels.

Architecture's Fascinating Range of Disciplines /  by Wilkens Design Studio

I sometimes have to take a step back and look at the vast range of considerations that go into a typical project. To wit, I took this picture of the office couch and realized the great distance between selecting Kitchen equipment and working with our Structural Engineer in sizing the most efficient beams and columns. Most projects contain a full range of design considerations, besides architectural design and coordination with a range of consultants, interiors need to be designed, equipment selected, and in some cases furniture is selected or designed. The fascinating thing is the amount of time that can pass between the consideration of one (designing the structural framework) and the other (selecting the best fixtures for the project) - and all the decisions that are discussed and made with clients between the two. This is also what ultimately makes this profession so satisfying; the range of issues and challenges each project brings.

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Process Sketching /  by Wilkens Design Studio

As I dig through the years of stuff I tend to have around my office, I very often find these sketches among the piles for various projects. These concept sketches become the backbone for many projects - they are typically very early and contain a cavalcade of initial thoughts for the many many possibilities most projects offer. Apparently unable to overlay another, clean sheet and develop another idea this sketch is a glimpse into all the things one day going into our own place. After sketches like this, things evolve, ideas take form and offer other opportunities....Looking back on this sketch, it has provided the groundwork for what is turning into a very livable and cozy condominium in Seattle - albeit very different from this original idea ;-).

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Camp Camano Concept Drawings /  by Wilkens Design Studio

I've recently been working with some friends who are creating a retreat. The location is a spectacular spot in the North Puget Sound overlooking the water on wooded bluff. The initial concept required a way to tie the existing structures on the site together and provide an outdoor Living Room.