Creative Minds: Top Tips for Installing and Designing with CMUs

Architects, contractors, masons and manufacturers are all in the business of building structures that are beautiful, interesting and functional. Everyone has their own role in the development process, but there are many ways that your interests overlap. For those of us involved in creating the spaces where humans work, live and play, a recent webinar… Continue reading Creative Minds: Top Tips for Installing and Designing with CMUs

A Simple Trick to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Everyone wants to be proud of their space, feel good about their property when arriving home and be comfortable with the design. But how do you achieve that solid ‘look’ that appeals to others and ensures you will feel great about your choices for years to come? There are many ways to achieve an aesthetically… Continue reading A Simple Trick to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Windsor City Hall – A Clinic in Building a Public House for the People

Whether or not you vote or participate in local politics, most people have a good idea of where their city hall is located. These structures have historically stood as gathering places for citizens to celebrate holidays, hold protests and for individuals to conduct business and keep their personal affairs in order, especially as they relate… Continue reading Windsor City Hall – A Clinic in Building a Public House for the People

Webinar: Trends & Innovations in Stone Veneer and Architecture in 2022

Bob Sanders, Director of Sales at Shouldice Designer Stone, presented a webinar with panelist and architect Emilio Raimondo of Raimondo Architects to inform and share expertise and trends in the building industry today. Presented to architects and masons, the webinar covered a brief history of stonework, ‘best practices’ of concrete masonry units, trends and innovations… Continue reading Webinar: Trends & Innovations in Stone Veneer and Architecture in 2022

How to Use Stone Veneer for a Refined Exterior

If you’re looking to create a stylish exterior design on your new home, or to add a splash of something classic and timeless, you might want to explore the benefits and versatility of various textures in man-made materials. Achieving an elegant façade on your home’s exterior is a huge boost to its aesthetics and raises… Continue reading How to Use Stone Veneer for a Refined Exterior

Refined Home Exterior Ideas for the Hesitant Client

A good designer gains their client’s trust by providing exterior plans with various options and styles, but often that’s not enough for the client to help them choose a direction. You can solve an indecisive client’s woes and get the engines running again by offering a couple of ideas that blend styles and materials from… Continue reading Refined Home Exterior Ideas for the Hesitant Client

Creating a Luxury Outdoor Kitchen

So, you’ve decided your next home project is going to be a brand-new outdoor kitchen, and you’ve budgeted for something nice. How do you get yourself from bright idea, to concept, to the fine outdoor dining experience you’ve been dreaming about for your new space? A clear vision and plan will help get you there.… Continue reading Creating a Luxury Outdoor Kitchen

Scalable Design Trends for Home Exteriors

From contemporary to urban farmhouse to traditional there are countless options available for designing home exteriors. Often it can be difficult for your clients to choose just one. Here are some top scalable trends for home exteriors to help them decide. Wood, natural stone and stone veneer Using wood as an accent or on walls,… Continue reading Scalable Design Trends for Home Exteriors

Coordinating Simple Exterior Ideas To Boost Curb Appeal

If you’re in the market to invest in your new home and want to make the best impression on your new neighbours, putting some thought behind the curb appeal of your home counts. There are some great and relatively inexpensive ways to coordinate the look of your home so it has a balanced and customized… Continue reading Coordinating Simple Exterior Ideas To Boost Curb Appeal

Canada’s National Ballet School on Jarvis Street, Toronto

Melding heritage and contemporary architecture to make a ballet studio dance In 2005 the National Ballet School of Canada was expanded from an existing heritage mansion to a state-of-the-art facility in downtown Toronto. The structures, designed with glass, steel and architectural stone block include the modern Celia Franca Centre with 12 dance studios and the… Continue reading Canada’s National Ballet School on Jarvis Street, Toronto