New building projects on The Valley Isle are a long and complex process. When constructing a new building in Maui, well before the foundation is dug, there are multiple steps required from the conception stage through the start of building. Pro Draft , a leading architectural drafting house in Paia, Hawaii, offers some things that must be done to ensure a good outcome when constructing a new building. Architectural Services Your first step is to have your plans drawn up and drafted. You’ll meet with your architect to discuss what you want and need in your new home or commercial property. From there begins design development, drafting blueprints and construction documents, budget considerations, and eventually, construction administration and project management. Architectural … [Read more...] about Constructing A New Building In Maui
History Of Lahaina
From its days as Maui, then Hawaii’s, royal capital to its days as a major Pacific whaling center, to a modern tourist and historical area, the town of Lahaina is a city with a rich history and culture. The name means “merciless sun,” appropriately because Lahaina is one of the driest parts of Maui. Whaling was one flourishing industry in Lahaina while sugar production was another, beginning in 1860. A lighthouse was constructed in 1840 to assist whaling ships and is now Hawaii’s oldest. Lahaina’s famous Banyon tree was planted in 1873 by the sheriff of Maui to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the arrival of Protestant missionaries. While badly singed from the recent fires, the blocks-long tree is still standing. Until recently, Lahaina was a busy seaport and tourist town … [Read more...] about History Of Lahaina
Maui Will Rebuild
Once the wildfires in Lahaina were extinguished, the devastation was evident. So many Maui people had lost their homes, belongings, businesses - everything. But in the midst of these ashes, Hawaii citizens already knew Maui will rebuild. Though an estimated 2,200 destroyed structures were from Lahaina’s historical whaling and sugar industry days, sadly 86% of the destroyed structures were residential homes and dwellings. The Task Before Us Preliminary estimates from Maui County for rebuilding the city put the cost at $5.5 billion and likely will take many years to complete. In the meantime, displaced survivors are working to find ways to rebuild from the ashes for themselves, their ohana (families), their community, and the entire Valley Isle. Maui residents, Hawaii citizens, and … [Read more...] about Maui Will Rebuild
Why Your Interior Designer Needs to Work With Pro Draft
You may be wondering, "Who do I hire first? the interior designer OR the architect? Would it surprise you if we told you the answer is "Both! At the same time!" While they each have distinct and different roles, together they can product a seamless design process that brings your dream home into focus. What We Do - Architectural Drafting The architect's training, expertise, and certification are to design structurally sound buildings, including the internal systems, i.e., electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc. Without the education and experience required, their structures may crumble, leading to injury and loss of life. However, architects may also work on components of interior space design and may request assistance from an interior designer. Whether you work with Pro Draft for … [Read more...] about Why Your Interior Designer Needs to Work With Pro Draft
Is Door Placement in Home Design in Maui Important?
Doors stand between you and the outdoors and offer privacy inside the house. But doors aren’t the most interesting part of home design. Door placement is an important factor in Maui's home design. Positioning the doors can significantly impact the functionality, aesthetics, and the home's overall ambiance. Maui's unique geographical features, climate, cultural influences, and lifestyle preferences make door placement even more relevant for creating a harmonious, comfortable, and energy-efficient home. The View One of the primary considerations for door placement in Maui is its incredible natural surroundings. Maui’s stunning ocean views, lush landscapes, and majestic mountains are enjoyable inside or outside. Homeowners and architects can ensure easy access by positioning doors to … [Read more...] about Is Door Placement in Home Design in Maui Important?
Window Selection in Your New Maui Home
Windows in a Maui home serve multiple functions. They keep out the weather while letting in just the right amount of sunlight with less radiant heat into the house. Windows have to offer a beautiful Maui view along with open ventilation. And they need to be low- or no-maintenance while keeping their visage year after year. The Maui Climate Our warm climate means your windows will have to let in light but keep out the heat. Windows with high energy efficiency ratings will help you keep air conditioning costs under control. Your new home’s windows also must withstand the occasional bursts of heavy rains and wind with durability with impact-resistance. Wooden frames offer a classic aesthetic. But in Maui, they’ll need replacement more often because of the damp climate and termites. … [Read more...] about Window Selection in Your New Maui Home
Design Considerations for Modern Kitchens
For homeowners who enjoys all things foodie, the idea of designing or remodeling their kitchen is something they look forward to doing. Maui kitchen design is no different. Even in Maui, a modern kitchen is one that’s designed for ease of use, efficiency, comfort, and beauty. A modern kitchen is one that is highly functional and minimalistic with open spaces and clean lines with maximum space and lighting. Tall ceilings and improved lighting make working in the kitchen easier. Well-designed cabinetry and other storage solutions can mitigate clutter and give everything a place. Unlike a farmhouse-style kitchen with barn doors and baskets for storage, the modern kitchen is designed for sleek simplicity and ultimate efficiency. If this is what you have in mind for your new modern … [Read more...] about Design Considerations for Modern Kitchens
Is it Expensive to Live in Maui?
Warm, sandy beaches, year-round mild weather, fresh tropical fruit, and the vibe of the Valley Isle make it irresistible for both visitors and residents who relocate here from elsewhere. Families, retirees, couples, and even singles want to live in Maui and more move in every day. But is it too expensive to live in Maui? The short answer is it can be. Because many of the comforts people are accustomed to on the Mainland are shipped in from elsewhere, some aspects of everyday life can also become more expensive. A family of four needs a yearly income of about $120,000 to live here comfortable. But this figure is actually in keeping with many states in the US. Here is a list of states where annual median family income is over $100,000: • Alaska • California • … [Read more...] about Is it Expensive to Live in Maui?
Designing for Equity and the Environment
There are many concerns when it comes to architectural design including designing for equity and the environment. One of the many important tenets of architectural design in Maui is to design for the environment. At Pro Draft, we adhere to all building codes and regulations and work so that our designs are environmentally friendly to our island home. Equity, however, is another element of design that’s also important to the Valley Isle. Design has the power to shape the world around us, and with that power comes the responsibility to consider both equity and the environment. Designers have the unique opportunity to create solutions that not only benefit individuals and communities but also contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future. What Is Equity? A brief definition of … [Read more...] about Designing for Equity and the Environment
What Do Maui First-Time Homeowners Want?
Maui is one of the most popular destinations for visitors. But when you decide to make the move to the Valley Isle, there are many things Maui first-time homeowners may want as well as considerations to make in choosing what to build and where. If you're a Maui first-time homeowner buying or building a home may be one of those considerations. Pro Draft is here to help you with all aspects of the building process here in Maui. Believe us when we tell you that you’re not the first who wondered what to do next. No matter where you buy your Maui home, it’s a long process that culminates when you get the keys and start moving into your own slice of paradise. What Maui First-time Homeowners Are Looking For Moving to Maui is a dream come true for so many people. Much like residents in … [Read more...] about What Do Maui First-Time Homeowners Want?
Popular Maui Neighborhoods
There are popular Maui neighborhoods to choose from when thinking about where to build your home. Depending on your taste and lifestyle, picking the location is up to you. A unique aspect of Maui is its “microclimates,” or areas that have different weather patterns than the one next to it. In fact, Maui boasts 17 microclimates throughout the Island. Our area where our Pro Draft offices are located in Paia, is near the Central Valley, Kahului, which sees about 10 inches of rain per year. In comparison, the area around lower-east-side Hana sees as much as 400 inches of rain every year, making it one of Hawaii's rainforests. Maui’s various neighborhoods are like these microclimates—drive ten minutes and you’ll find something different. The Valley Isle has a variety of popular … [Read more...] about Popular Maui Neighborhoods
Why Pro Draft Is LEED Certified
More people building in Maui are choosing to go with environmentally friendly designs and building materials. This process is nicknamed "going green," since it's intended to use fewer resources and has a less environmental impact. Pro Draft is a leading drafting house here in Maui and is LEED certified for a reason. A drafting house works like a hub in the building industry. Working closely with all aspects of the construction process including Architects, Engineers, Owners, Contractors and Federal, State and County agencies, we help all the parts come together on a building project. At Pro Draft we recognize that many people value going green and being more environmentally friendly. Well so does Pro Draft. We care about our beautiful state of Hawaii and our Maui … [Read more...] about Why Pro Draft Is LEED Certified
What Is LEED Certification?
Here in Maui, we’re very conscious of our air, water, and land. Residents are increasingly interested in environmental concerns and sustainable practices to prevent damage to our unique ecosystems. Making homes and businesses more environmentally friendly can take many forms, such as rainwater collection, recycling, and utilizing power generation that cuts down on more expensive fossil fuel consumption. Building a new or remodeling an existing home can also be environmentally friendly. But it’s important to find an architect, architectural designer, or contractor who understands the desire to be more sustainable. That’s where LEED certification comes into play. What is LEED? The name stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Created and developed by the U.S. Green … [Read more...] about What Is LEED Certification?
What Is A Building Permit?
During the process of designing your home, you’ll hear all about the permits you’ll need to get your home or commercial property completed. A building permit is an essential part of any construction project. Maui requires building permits for most of the building and remodeling projects done on the Valley Isle. An approved permit ensures the worker’s safety and compliance with codes for building, construction, and zoning. These building codes establish what projects need—or don’t need—a building permit. The general rule is that a project alters the structure of a home or other building and possibly leads to unsafe working conditions. Ultimately, the building codes and permits ensure that your home or other project is safe for occupancy when you move in, and in the years to … [Read more...] about What Is A Building Permit?
Starting a New Building Project In Maui
From a small house or ohana to a large home or commercial property, there’s a lot that happens between inception and getting the keys. A new building project in Maui is exciting but challenging. When it’s time to make your dreams a reality, Pro Draft can help you start the process and ensure that everything is done right. Pro Draft Inc. is an innovative, high-production drafting house located in Maui, Hawaii and can help with everything from architectural drafting to permit expediting to interior design and project management. Things To Consider Once you’ve decided to build in Maui, the first question is: where do you want to build? Is a beach house the most appealing, or somewhere in the Upcountry? Different areas may have different needs, such as withstanding hurricanes and storms … [Read more...] about Starting a New Building Project In Maui
Top Three Reasons to Build in Maui
It's one of the most popular places on earth, and people from all over the world visit and move here every year. Some want to live somewhere warm, while others come to visit and never leave. Maui's warm, temperate year-round climate is always a draw. Whatever your reasons for relocating to Aloha State, Maui is an ideal place whether you are building a home, starting a business, or relocating one. Everyone has their reasons for coming to Maui and staying. Maui's incredible scenery and ideal climate make it even more attractive. As if you didn't need another reason, here are the top three excellent reasons to build in Maui. The Economy Maui's economy Is both strong and diversified. For a small island, it has quite several industries, including agriculture. While pineapple and sugar … [Read more...] about Top Three Reasons to Build in Maui
Designing to Enhance Natural Light In Maui
Maui’s incredible climate lends itself to the types of design that emphasize the natural beauty of the Valley Isle. When designing a home, it's important to consider this, along with other elements such as the topography of your home’s location. As part of a larger design style called “biophilic,” designing your home to enhance the natural light makes perfect sense here. The idea behind the biophilic design is to improve the connection between people and nature, improving both productivity and well-being. Natural lighting plays a key role in biophilic design, as it helps to create a much healthier environment by mirroring the sun’s natural light cycles. It also reduces the need for artificial lighting, which can increase energy costs and have negative impacts on human health and … [Read more...] about Designing to Enhance Natural Light In Maui
Popular Reasons To Remodel
There are a number of popular reasons to remodel. Remodeling can be a tedious process, but the results are worth the trouble. You may even know someone who is remodeling now or has just finished a remodel. If you’re unhappy with your current home, consider what it would cost to remodel your home instead of buying or building another one. Remember, your home is your castle, so you should enjoy living there. You may not be able to relax because you see so many things you’d like to change. From updating a kitchen or bathroom to a makeover for your entire home, there are many reasons to consider remodeling your current home. Then the house works for you instead of the other way around. Add Square Footage And Optimize Utilization Does your current layout no longer suit your needs? … [Read more...] about Popular Reasons To Remodel
Drafting for Contractors
When it’s time to begin building, contractors rely on blueprints and drawings that represent what the clients want in a finished design. Therefore drafting for contractors to create needed blueprints and drawings. Without them, contractors would not have a clear picture of what to build or how to proceed. These documents are used for all types of construction projects, from the kitchen remodel or new ohana on a residential project to the largest commercial projects. Contractors don’t always have someone available to produce these drawings. That’s where Pro Draft can help with exclusive drafting services just for contractors. About Drafting Also called technical drawing, it’s the process by which the representation of a building is created on paper (or digitally) before the … [Read more...] about Drafting for Contractors
Maui’s Planning and Permitting System (MAPPS)
It’s one of the biggest concerns facing anyone with new construction or renovations: getting permits. Maui's planning needs to include proper permitting. Maui requires multiple permits before the building can begin, during the process, and before an owner can take occupancy. The process has been agonizingly slow for quite some time. But recently, Maui introduced a new system that automates and expedites much of the permit process. The Maui Planning And Permitting System, or MAPPS, replaces the previous system KivaNet. The MAPPS system made its debut on April 18th, 2022. The biggest change from KivaNet is that Maui County no longer accepts paper applications for permits. Everything is done online with more functionality than before. This includes all planning and permitting … [Read more...] about Maui’s Planning and Permitting System (MAPPS)
Working With An Architect
Maybe you’re just thinking about a new building project, or you’ve decided to begin one. One of the first things you should do is begin working with an architect. Many people are not sure how to hire an architect or if they can afford the service. But an architect is able to design a project that can actually help save money in the long run. With a well designed plan, you can avoiding potential problems and catching mistakes before a project is built out. Working with an architect can in fact make your project a success and headache-free. You may know exactly what you want in your home, or just have some ideas. In either scenario,the architect takes your ideas and fleshes them out into proper drawings, and eventually, the finished project. Your architect does more than design a … [Read more...] about Working With An Architect
What Is Interior Design?
While architectural design deals with the overall function and aesthetics of a structure, the interior design focuses solely on the inside or interior design of a structure that corresponds to the needs of the eventual occupants. The design of a space’s interior impacts how people live, work, and function. It can include a workplace that’s functional or a home that’s comfortable and cohesive. Interior design differs from interior decorating, which focuses on styling individual fixtures, furnishings, and other embellishments. However, an interior designer may also handle decorating, too. What Interior Design Does An interior designer is usually hired by an architect but may also be an architect themselves. Using CAD software, specifications, and drawings, an interior designer meets … [Read more...] about What Is Interior Design?
What Is Architectural Design?
When designing a home, office, commercial premises, or other structure, there’s more to it than just walls and windows. Knowing what the building will be used for and the people who will use it are some of the most important factors that go into the architectural design process. Architectural design is the process of designing and planning a structure while considering both the building’s eventual function as well as its aesthetics. Basics The architectural design focuses on the elements and components of the design of an intended structure. The architect uses the intended space to create a functional and logical design that works for its intended use. While architecture focuses on the start-to-finish aspect of designing and building, architectural design is the actual designing … [Read more...] about What Is Architectural Design?
Considerations When Choosing a New Home Building Site in Maui
Whether you’re building your first home here or selling your first home and building a newer one, you’ll need to consider the multiple variables that come with buying the land. Maui is approximately 727 square miles, or 48 miles long and 26 miles wide. The land is limited, so you’ll need to carefully consider several variables, and how they will impact your construction, your final product, and your everyday living situation. Of course, the first question is: where do you want to live in Maui? Do you want to live in the Upcountry, with rural towns, homesteads, agricultural land, trade winds, and a bi-coastal view? What about East Maui, with lush green areas in a tropical rainforest including Hana, one of the most towns on the Valley Isle? Each part of Maui has its own unique … [Read more...] about Considerations When Choosing a New Home Building Site in Maui
Do You Need An Architect When Adding A Room Addition?
Adding a room to your home can increase both the home’s square footage as well as its resale value. An addition offers more functionality and room as well as suits your needs. But the new addition will only be as good as the design itself. If you’re considering another bedroom or bathroom, a new den or living room, or a new home office, a room addition can be just as complicated—and sometimes costly—as building a new home. Should you hire an architect for the room addition? The Architect This is an individual with education, experience, certifications, and licensure. They have a high level of expertise that includes correct design, and the laws regarding building codes and permits. An architect is trained in a variety of relevant subjects, including design, construction, … [Read more...] about Do You Need An Architect When Adding A Room Addition?
What are Microclimates?
You may have heard that The Valley Isle has something called microclimates, but you may not understand what that means. Climates varies greatly in different places on Maui, you can go from a desert to a beach and to a mountain range during a single car ride. Microclimates Explained A microclimate is an atmospheric condition that greatly differs from others in a surrounding area. They exist in small areas and the differences are small but substantial. Microclimates are measured by the Koppen Climate Classification System. This system measures climate zones based on vegetation. Many areas on earth have microclimates, but they are most pronounced in islands, coastal areas, and areas with mountains. Coastal areas may be warmer than inland areas and experience less severe … [Read more...] about What are Microclimates?
Think Green Building
“Green” building and construction is part of the larger transformation that guides both residential and business structures toward a more sustainable future. From water collection and recycling to smart home controls and off-grid energy generation, the green building encompasses a range of practices that work with the environment, not against it. It’s about maintaining or improving quality of life while harmonizing with the immediate environment. What Is Green Building? It’s the process used to create a house or other structure that is eco-friendly and efficient throughout the life of the structure. While most think of the green building as solar panels, the principle goes beyond energy conservation. The entire process is based on reducing the structure’s impact on both the … [Read more...] about Think Green Building
Maui’s Summer Weather
On the Mainland, renovation and construction are planned around the seasons in consideration of the variables in the weather. For example the Florida and Louisiana Gulf Coast region are susceptible to hurricanes in the summer months. Maui's summer weather is beautiful but is also a consideration for builders as well as vacationers. Often vacationers prefer to visit Maui during the “shoulder seasons” of April through May and September through November, but really anytime is a good time weather wise for a lovely tropical vacation. Maui is different in that there are really only two “seasons”: summer and winter. Both seasons have consistent and moderate temperatures that make construction a year-round endeavor. Maui's summer season is the dry season and is April–October. But … [Read more...] about Maui’s Summer Weather
Architectural Drafting in Maui County
Designing and building a new home, renovating an existing one, or creating a commercial building project comes with a series of moving parts. One key part is architectural drafting. At the beginning of the project, think about the drawings that comprise the design and plans for the finished project. Architectural drafting is the process that turns your idea into plans and instructions from which the project is built. Architectural drafters, working with architects and engineers, translate ideas into the technical drawings, detailed plans, and even models for construction of residential and commercial buildings. Drawings The completed technical drawings (also called blueprints) are used to show the project to clients as well as guide the general contractors and subcontractors. They … [Read more...] about Architectural Drafting in Maui County
Building Considerations In Maui
Because Maui is such an incredible place, many people want to move and live here. But there are some building considerations to know about when thinking about moving and building a new home here. The County of Maui has had to implement guidelines and restrictions such as building codes to address the unique needs of Maui. Maui, and all of Hawaii, by its very location as an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, always bears the brunt of Mother Nature’s wrath. Storms of all types batter the Aloha State from every direction and can tear at the infrastructure that’s taken years to build and perfect. It doesn’t have to be a hurricane to cause widespread flooding and damage. So weather's effect is an important consideration for builders. A strong Kona low storm last year took out … [Read more...] about Building Considerations In Maui
What is Condominiumization?
Maui and the entire state of Hawaii is one of the most desirable places to live in the US. Unfortunately, It's also one of the smallest. Housing is at a premium, so property owners find ways to create more housing and if possible, make it affordable. Condominiumization is a method of dividing a parcel into a condominium property regime (CPR) allowing independent ownership of each area section or “condo”. While a CPR will allow you to sell off sections of your parcel or lot, with or without buildings, it does not change the zoning or permitted uses of that parcel or lot. When most people hear the word “condominium,” they usually think of an apartment-type unit in a multi-family building purchased as a home or as a rental property. But in this context, the term “condominium” is … [Read more...] about What is Condominiumization?
What Are Fire Flow Calculations?
Fire flow calculations is an important part of architectural design and Pro Draft can help you with that. When the fire department shows up, you might think they just open a hose and start spraying. But manually extinguishing a fire needs proper quick calculation to make sure there’s enough water and pressure to do the job. Otherwise, it’s like using a lawn sprinkler. Whether new construction or remodeling an existing structure, fire flow calculations are as important as other building considerations. Definition Seconds count when a fire breaks out, firefighters need to know they have the resources available to handle a fire when they arrive at the scene. The International Fire Code defines fire flow as the "flow rate of a water supply, measured at 20 psi (138 kPa), that is … [Read more...] about What Are Fire Flow Calculations?
Maui County’s Construction Permits
It’s one of the less enjoyable parts of any building project—Maui's permit process. Pro Draft Offers a permit expediting service that can help not only with drafting and submitting for a permit but acquiring it too. While you're spending time thinking about building plans, color schemed or maybe remodeling to upgrade to a sustainable green or tech savvy smart home, the last thing you want to worry about is the building permits for everything We’ve previously discussed what can happen when a homeowner does work on a property without a permit, and we don’t recommend this practice. Any unpermitted work can become considerably more expensive in the long run when the county learns of its existence. What Is A Permit? A building permit is simply a written authorization issued … [Read more...] about Maui County’s Construction Permits
Architectural Sets For Residential Projects
What are Architectural Sets? When you have a vision for your residential new construction, chances are you’re ready to get right into the building. Architectural sets for residential projects are comprehensive plans done in 3D, AutoCAD software and offers incredible details. Since you’ll be meeting with an architect, a builder, and others to get your new home built, you may want such a plan to truly understand how your home will look when completed. There are three different sets of drawings involved in a residential project. Here, we’ll give you a brief overview of each. The Permit Set The preliminary drawing set that’s used to obtain permits for the build. There isn’t enough information in the permit set to begin construction or complete the build. It’s important to keep up … [Read more...] about Architectural Sets For Residential Projects
Building in Beautiful Paia in Maui County, Hawaii
Paia in Maui County is Delightful If you are looking for a great place to build your Maui home, Paia in Maui County is ideal. Aside from being the windsurfing capital of the world, this north-coast town is the first town on the famous Road To Hana. As part of Maui’s historic sugar plantation past, the old wooden sugar industry buildings are still standing and house a range of businesses now such as art galleries, local restaurants, and tourist-oriented businesses such as beach shops and swimwear boutiques. Paia has a bohemian vibe similar to the hippie towns on the Mainland thanks to the folks who moved in after the sugar industry closed. In the 1980s, an influx of windsurfers from around the world discovered nearby Hookipa Beach as a mecca for the sport and brought in an … [Read more...] about Building in Beautiful Paia in Maui County, Hawaii
What Is Residential Drafting?
With all the different types of projects drafters work on, you may not realize that residential drafting is a specific type of drafting. In short, residential drafting is simply creating a blueprint for a house, apartment, condo, townhome, or other structure that isn’t a commercial-use property. Therefore, the residence must be designed to meet a specific standard of living, such as proper ventilation and indoor plumbing. The drafter must take into consideration that people will eventually live in the structure and that the possibility of environmental damage exists. Residential drafters utilize architectural design as well as CAD (computer-assisted drafting) software to create blueprints of residential structures. Working under the supervision of architects and engineers, they may be … [Read more...] about What Is Residential Drafting?
Hawaii’s Best Recipes
Are you building yourself a new home in Maui, or simply renovating? Are you considering a kitchen makeover, or a complete remodel? Whether you're happy with your current kitchen or considering a refresh, “cooking Hawaiian” may be something you'd like to do and doing it in a beautiful and efficient kitchen makes cooking Hawaiian even more enjoyable! If you've been here for many years, you've probably made at least a few local recipes. But if you're relocating from the mainland, or elsewhere in the world, it's a fun idea to learn and explore local cuisine. Local Hawaii cuisine can sometimes be described as, “quirky.” While fine food is widely available made by some of the finest chefs in the world, there are also revered local recipes that might not be familiar on the mainland. … [Read more...] about Hawaii’s Best Recipes
What is a Homeowner Site Assessment?
For a new homeowner who is looking forward to building a home on Maui, a homeowner site assessment from the County must be performed. This may take place before the building process is even considered for new construction. What Is An Assessment? An assessment is the monetary value of the property. This value is used to calculate the real property taxes for the property itself. Homeowner site assessment allows the County and the homeowner understand this value and plan for property taxes in their budget. Assessments are done annually, utilizing comparable sales recorded through June 30th prior to the date of assessment. The values represent 100% of the full and unencumbered market value of the property The assessor uses mass appraisal methods and standards to calculate market value. … [Read more...] about What is a Homeowner Site Assessment?
Drafting For Contractors
Contractors have a lot going on during a project. The outcome depends on the planning and drafting of plans before the foundation is even started. Architectural drawings are a necessity at the outset and will undergo several revisions before construction begins. The contractor who needs to draft plans may be crunched for time or need help getting the drawings completed. Enter drafting for contractors or architectural drafting Getting The Plans You Need After reviewing the architect’s rendering, it’s time to start putting things together to get to the finished product. For that, you’ll need drawings. Contractors need to see everything clearly before they begin building anything. Design flaws and other problems are visible and correctable immediately. Errors in communications can lead … [Read more...] about Drafting For Contractors
Do I Need A Hold Harmless Agreement?
Is a new construction project or home renovation in your future? If so, with any building project, there are many "moving parts," all of which are important. You may be asked to sign something in the process called the Hold Harmless Agreement. This is an agreement signed by two or more parties that indicate that they relinquish their right to liability if someone is injured. For example if you’re hiring a contractor or other service provider to work on your property and don’t wish to be held liable for that person (or his or her employees) getting injured while working on your project. This may be requested prior to construction. Hold harmless agreements are frequently used in business transactions, commercial contracts, and higher-risk activities where the chances of minor to … [Read more...] about Do I Need A Hold Harmless Agreement?
What Is Architectural Drafting?
You meet a lot of different people when you're building your house or commercial property. There's an architect, a building contractor, interior designer and maybe even a realtor. You probably know what an architect is and what they do. But one part of the building process may not be as familiar: architectural drafting. While the architect imagines and creates the project, architectural drafting is the process of creating the plans that bring the architect's vision to life. It’s where the technical specifications are drawn out and completed to bring the design phase into the building phase Most architects have a specialty, such as landscape design, urban design, commercial property design or housing. The architect creates and designs the plans for a project, including the … [Read more...] about What Is Architectural Drafting?
Fire Protection Solutions
Whether you're building a new home, remodeling an existing one, or building a commercial property, fire protection should be an integral part of your plans. Without it, your home or business could be gone in a matter of minutes. Many homes already have a fire extinguisher or two. Most people have one in the kitchen, and most businesses have strategically placed fire extinguishers throughout the facility. But that only works when someone is close enough to grab an extinguisher and use it immediately. Fire protection also involves detecting fire, extinguishing it before it causes considerable damage. A typical house or building fire leaves about two minutes of escape time. Catching fire before it engulfs a structure makes it easier to save the structure and offers more protection … [Read more...] about Fire Protection Solutions
What To Expect When You Meet Your Architect
Even if you have built a new home before, it's not every day you hire an architect. So whether you have vague ideas on what you want or clear and concise ideas about your new project, it's important to know what to expect when you meet with an architect. The architect is an important partner in your renovation or new construction. They will bring your vision to life and create plans that the builder uses to create the final project from the ground up. A new or remodeling project requires a considerable amount of planning before anything happens. So, it's important that you are on the same playing field as an architect, since you will be working closely with them. It's also important that you feel comfortable working with this individual because they will be very involved in your … [Read more...] about What To Expect When You Meet Your Architect
How Interior Designers and Architects Collaborate
Whether you are planning new construction or remodeling an existing structure, you may be wondering if you will need the services of an architect and an interior designer. You may wonder if architectural drafting and an interior design plan can make a difference. Though they are are different roles in any type of construction project, there are benefits when the two collaborate to produce the finished project. For instance, if you want to make sure that your new kitchen has plenty of storage space, you’ll need both. Not only is the interior designer going to add storage, but the architect must also make sure that the walls where the cabinets are installed will bear enough of a load to hold them. That's why it's important to understand the difference and the two different jobs … [Read more...] about How Interior Designers and Architects Collaborate
How an Architect Can Design a Better Commercial Property
An architect who designs a commercial property is different than one who designs a residential property. The attention to detail is generally the same. But the scale is generally much larger with additional requirements. Since the commercial property will likely have more than a few people, there are prerequisites such as building codes, zoning, fire safety, and other requirements. Commercial construction projects such as hospitals, officers, hotels, retail facilities, air and rail terminals, and sporting facilities need more attention on public safety than a residential project. Designing a residence is for the needs of a small group of people. But a commercial project has a larger, more diverse population to consider. Therefore, it's vital that developers find knowledgeable and … [Read more...] about How an Architect Can Design a Better Commercial Property
Environmental Design Considerations in Maui
Because Maui is such a popular place for people to live, the possibility of over-building is always a concern. Big houses, big buildings, and no concern for our unique environment have led to regulations to address these concerns. Anyone considering new construction needs to be aware of environmental factors during the design phase of either a home or commercial property. Sustainability is a very important consideration and can be implemented throughout a design. Working with your architect can take in such environmental considerations in your design. Remember designing your new Maui building doesn’t have to be an exercise in what you can’t do. Understanding what you can do in your design can make the process easier as well as help keep Maui one of the most beautiful places on … [Read more...] about Environmental Design Considerations in Maui
PV and Thermal Solar Solutions In Hawaii
Hawaiian Electric’s Clean Energy initiative is driving Maui, and all of Hawaii, to a future of 100% renewable energy by the year 2045. Reducing and eliminating Aloha State’s dependency on expensive imported fossil fuel will help make Hawaii more affordable for everyone. For the homeowner or small business, both PV and thermal solar solutions are available and are useful depending on your needs. Here, we’ll discuss the difference. How They Work Both PV or photovoltaic, and thermal solar systems harness the sun as raw energy and use it to generate suitable electricity. However, they are two distinctly different systems. Most people are familiar with the ubiquitous solar panels attached to rooftops but may not realize the difference. • Thermal solar systems are primarily for … [Read more...] about PV and Thermal Solar Solutions In Hawaii
Planning A Smart Home
Whether you’re building a new home or already living in your dream home on Maui, adding “smart home” features can make living on the Valley Isle a dream come true. If you’re in the planning stages for new construction, you and your architect can incorporate everything into the home’s design. But it’s also possible to introduce smart technology (also called home automation) into an existing home to make things more convenient. But be forewarned that just going out and buying some “smart devices” and without understanding what they are then trying to implement them is a recipe for disaster. That’s why planning is important whether it’s new construction or an existing structure. What Do You Want Your Home To Do? The first question to ask yourself is what you want to accomplish by … [Read more...] about Planning A Smart Home
New Home Features You May Want in Your Home Design
After spending more time at home—and in some cases for weeks at a stretch—homeowners have realized what home design features they really need. A home is now not only the place where we live, but the place we work, learn, relax, and even camp in. These abrupt changes require a rethinking of what’s important in a home. The latest in new home features reflects this mentality. From kitchen updates to multifunction spaces, homebuyers are taking home design much more seriously than before and making the house not only comfortable but functional and livable for every day. Laundry Rooms Everyone does laundry, even on Maui. After families found themselves with more at-home time, the laundry didn’t end. For those in smaller spaces with the washer and dryer in the kitchen or other common room, … [Read more...] about New Home Features You May Want in Your Home Design
The Importance Of Design And Execution Of Your New Maui Home
One of the biggest factors in a successful construction project lies in the relationship between your architect (design) and your contractor (execution). This is especially important in Maui, where the building codes with exacting standards and more people who want to move here than there is available land. During the course of the project, there are two primary parties: the architect, who designs the project, and the contractor, who actually executes the finished project. Many new homeowners engage with the architect first, then the contractor. That’s not always an ideal scenario. Unfortunately, architects and contractors aren’t always on the same page. The architect’s experience and knowledge give them the perspective of what’s possible to build, and what’s allowed under Maui’s … [Read more...] about The Importance Of Design And Execution Of Your New Maui Home
