42 Ideabooks by Coffee with an Architect

Design might seem difficult, mainly because it is, but with the right approach, you can overcome even the most difficult challenge.

Admit it. You've always thought that designers were different than everyone else, haven't you? Maybe something about the way they see the world is slightly off? Perhaps it has something to do with the structure of their brains. Maybe. Let's find out.

Design projects can be challenging. And often the hardest part to overcome is the simple act of starting. So, I've developed these simple tips to help you break out of the cycle of procrastination and really start digging in.

Architectural terms like "modern," "design" and "order" mean different things to different people, so let's break them down to their basic elements.

Here are a few simple graphics to quench your thirst for a well-designed life. See what I did there? I know. I'm sorry.

Sometimes opposing forces can combine for a better end result. Sometimes not so much.

Architects are nothing if not romantic; here are a few special cards to prove it. Feel free to share the design love.

A new build or remodel, whether commercial or residential, can take many twists and turns between start and finish. A few diagrams may help.

Sometimes the path to a great design is not a straight line.

Architects are not fond of words. We're a visual bunch typically, but occasionally we need to add notes to our images to explain the concepts to others. I think it's safe to say that "noting up" our drawings is the least favorite task of all architects....

On the 12 days of Christmas, what will architecture give to you?

Your guide to spotting architects, interior designers, interns, contractors and homeowners in the wild.

Instructions for taking this quiz: Read the questions and answer quickly. Try not to think about your answers; just go with the first one that comes to mind for each. Then consult the answers at the bottom of the page to determine if you are or are not...

Designing a new home or renovating an existing home can be an ordeal. You'll probably experience a whole range of emotions during the process, from excitement, to confusion, to frustration, to exhaustion, to an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and...

At the beginning of this year, I closed up my office space downtown and moved my architecture practice into the sunporch of my house. I'd been hitting the pavement to drum up work for the previous few years, and I was beginning to crack from the stress....