After the destruction caused by the 1995 Kobe earthquake the Japanese government took it upon themselves to construct the world’s largest seismic testing table, often referred to as a “shake table”. This testing facility, called Earth-Defense, was built to its enormous size out of necessity. Space to build new structures is a rare commodity in […]
Seismic Testing of a Mid-Rise Wood Framed Structure Read More »
We make use of the DWF file format for sending drawings to clients for review or print shops to print. It is a significantly better format for sending drawings than PDF. Not only are the files a fraction of the size, but they are also easier to create. In addition, the DWF format gives our
McDwiff is an Option for Opening DWF Files on a Macintosh Read More »
When I speak with potential clients, this is one of the first questions that I’m often asked. They want to know what style and design tastes I’ll bring to their project. The simple answer is that I will design the style based on the preferences of the client. At EVstudio are not looking to impose
What is your architectural style? Read More »
Here are some great resources about the different types of wood trusses and how they are designed. If you have any questions about roof or floor trusses please let us know. Alpine Engineered Products – Builder’s Guide SBCA – Structural Building Components Association – Truss Configurations
Types and Design of Wood Trusses Read More »
We recently received some additional photos of the Warrior in Transition Complex at Fort Hood. EVstudio is the architect for the Soldier Family Assistance Center and the Company Headquarters buildings.
Warrior in Transitition Complex at Fort Hood Photos Read More »
There are many situations were it may become necessary to attach a timber ledger to a concrete wall. It is desirable in many new homes to lower the elevation of the finished floor to make a home more wheel chair accessible. An example of the differences between the finished floor elevations that can be achieved
Fastening to Concrete – Wedge Style Expansion Anchors Read More »
I want to talk today about intensive green roofs. These roofs are beautiful but expensive due to their continued maintenance and irrigation requirements and structural requirements. In exchange for high cost a building owner gets a green roof that can have a large variety of plants ranging from flowers to tree. The soil is typically
Green Roofs – Some are Intense Read More »
The first step in preparing for the LEED Certification process on a building project is the formation of the LEED Project Team. Integrated design is one of the most important sustainability strategies and a good project team will become the key to an integrated, efficient, cost-effective and ultimately successful sustainable design and LEED Certification project.
LEED Project Team Formation is an Important First Step in any LEED Certification Project Read More »
We are working on a LEED Platinum housing project and have been doing a tremendous amount of research on both SIP and ICF construction. For the uninitiated, SIP construction (Structural Insulated Panels) is a construction method where rigid insulation is sandwiched between sheets of OSB sheathing, creating a thermally broken solid wall form. ICF construction
ICF vs. SIP…The Debate Continues Read More »
Often in larger scale commercial developments, vertical circulation is handled by escalators in addition to elevators in order to move large volumes of people from one space to another. Escalators are complex truss structures with a remarkable mechanism of chained treads that move in sync with railings in order to safely convey people. According to
The Escalating Cost of Escalators Read More »
The next programming step after getting all of the general information on your project is discussing the site. In almost all cases our architectural designs are going to be site specific so it is important to have the site picked out. In many cases I prefer to visit the site prior to doing the design
Designing Your House – Part 2 Read More »
The International Residential Code (IRC) lays out a series of requirements for pouring a concrete slab on grade. Its more than just forms and pouring concrete! The slab has to be at least 3.5″ thick and possibly thicker for expansive or other difficult soils. The area within the foundation walls has to be free of
Code Requirements for Concrete Slabs on Grade Read More »
9442 North Capital of Texas Highway
Plaza One, Suite 500
Austin, TX 78759
By Appointment Only