Under Construction in South Laguna

As mentioned in a previous post, MYD studio has a few residential projects under construction, and since things are moving along quickly, we thought we'd post photos and an update on the current status of a local renovation and addition.

So far, all is going smoothly, and we're very pleased with the ongoing progress for this virtually new home in South Laguna.

The initial deconstruction required the careful removal of the majority of the existing structure, while maintaining and reinforcing the non-conforming portions of the buildings in the sideyard setbacks.

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New Residential Construction Images

Since there's been a lot of talk of building technology around here lately, we thought we'd share some images of a unique collaborative project nearing the end of the construction phase.

It's a difficult task to make framing images very appealing or particularly engaging for those not too interested in the nuts and bolts of the building industry, but we do try our best...   Cheers, MYD

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Pictures at a Window Factory

We like learning how things are made- something that is partially motivated by the natural curiosity of human nature, but also by the pragmatic need to gain tools for an efficient, knowledge-based architectural process.

Knowing as much as possible about construction, in particular, is a critical component in making the most appropriate solutions for specific issues and conditions, determining alternatives and options, as well as innovative applications of materials, building technologies and design strategies.  We're also a nosy bunch who need an excuse to wrench ourselves away from the office every once in a while...

So, last week, MYD had a field trip to the manufacturing facility for Metal Window Corporation, who fabricated a custom window for a recent remodel a few weeks ago (more project details to come soon...)  It's an added benefit when manufacturing actually takes place in Southern California, not only so we can satisfy our curiosity, but to enable better coordination, collaboration and understanding, as well as to reduce the impact of transportation, shipping and travel.

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Next Phase: Construction

As anyone who has been involved in the design and construction of a new home can attest, the process is a long and involved one, making the built end result that much more meaningful.  So, when a project gets approved, permitted and moves into the Construction Phase, it's generally a pretty significant milestone. That said, MYD has multiple reasons to celebrate this holiday weekend, with two building permits pulled this past week for projects we've been working on for over the past year.

When dealing with unusual or unique conditions, getting to this point can be even further complicated, and both these projects have had their own special circumstances, stemming from the primary component of... location, location, location.  

The first project heading into construction is a new single-family residence on the North Short of Oahu. The remote nature of the site requires a self-sustaining renewable energy source (PV panels with backup storage), as well as its own septic and water systems, making it completely off the grid.

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Collaboration + Community

Integrated project design and the collaborative process is an widely discussed topic in the realm of sustainable architecture, and the benefits of a shared and interactive approach to problem-solving have been well-documented.  When implemented correctly, this translates to reduced overall project costs, more satisfied and informed clients, and increased team productivity and unity, as understanding and communication are key elements of integrated, collaborative design.

Beyond the building and construction industry, however, this concept of open communication and shared resources has the potential of far-reaching effects. When applied to the many other facets of living sustainably, this new paradigm of development and means of thinking could be the key to creating resilient and empowered communities...

Stop by Inspired Design Daily today, where I'm guest-blogging today on the prospects of open source collaboration and the potential to create self-sustaining communities.

Thanks, and have an inspired weekend!