3 Things to Consider When Selecting a Commercial Office Space

As a design-build general contractor, we have a lot of experience helping businesses select the perfect commercial office space. Here are three things to consider when making this important decision:

  1. Location: The location of your office space is critical for a number of reasons. It should be easily accessible for your employees, clients, and vendors. It should also be in an area that reflects the image and culture of your business.
  2. Size: The size of your office space should be determined by the number of employees you have and the amount of space they need to be productive. It’s important to find a space that is not too big or too small, but just right.
  3. Amenities: The amenities offered by a commercial office space can be a major factor in the overall happiness and productivity of your employees. Consider amenities such as on-site parking, a fitness center, and access to public transportation.

At Rose Architecture and Construction, we take the time to understand the unique needs of our clients and help them find the perfect commercial office space. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with this important decision.

Determining the Right Size for Your Custom House: Tips and Considerations

If you’re considering building a custom home, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is how big it should be. This can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure what factors to consider. In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips on how to figure out the right size for your custom house.

First and foremost, think about your current and future needs. How many people will be living in the house? Do you plan on starting a family or hosting frequent guests? Will you need space for a home office or a hobby room? Consider your lifestyle and the activities you enjoy, and try to anticipate any changes that might affect the size of your house in the future.

Next, consider your budget. Building a custom home can be expensive, so it’s important to determine how much you can afford to spend on construction and ongoing maintenance. The size of your house will affect your overall costs, so it’s important to strike a balance between your needs and your budget.

Another factor to consider is the size of your lot. If you have a large, sprawling lot, you may be able to build a larger house without sacrificing outdoor space. However, if you have a smaller lot, you’ll need to be more mindful of the footprint of your house in order to leave room for a yard and other outdoor features.

Finally, consider the style of your house. Different architectural styles lend themselves to different sizes and proportions. For example, a grand, formal house may require a larger floor plan in order to accommodate a grand entrance, multiple living areas, and a formal dining room. On the other hand, a cozy cottage may be well-suited to a smaller, more compact floor plan.

In conclusion, figuring out the right size for your custom house can be a challenging task. By considering your current and future needs, your budget, the size of your lot, and the style of your house, you can determine the right size for your custom home.

Contact Rose Architecture and Construction today to learn how we can make your dream custom home come to life!!

The Origins of Stucco and Its Uses in Modern Construction

Stucco is a traditional building material that has been used for centuries to create beautiful and durable surfaces. It is made from a mixture of sand, lime, and water, and can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including brick, concrete, and metal.

The origins of stucco can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and the Romans. These early stucco mixes were created by mixing lime and sand with water, and then applying the mixture to surfaces using a trowel or similar tool. Over time, the stucco would harden, creating a durable and weather-resistant finish.

Today, stucco is still widely used in construction, and is particularly popular in warm climates. In modern construction, stucco is typically mixed on site using a mechanical mixer. This allows for precise control over the consistency and composition of the stucco mix, ensuring that it is of the highest quality.

One of the key benefits of stucco is its durability. When properly applied and maintained, stucco can last for many years, and is resistant to damage from weather, pests, and other external factors. Additionally, stucco is fire-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for buildings in high-risk areas.

In modern construction, stucco is used for a variety of purposes. It is commonly applied to exterior walls as a decorative and protective finish, and is also used to create ornate details and architectural features. Additionally, stucco is often used in interior applications, such as creating smooth and durable surfaces on walls and ceilings.

Overall, stucco is a versatile and durable building material that has been used for centuries to create beautiful and functional surfaces. It continues to be a popular choice in modern construction, thanks to its durability, fire resistance, and ability to be customized to suit a wide range of architectural styles and designs.

The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Florida General Contractor for Stucco Work on Your Property

If you need stucco work done on your property, hiring a licensed Florida general contractor is essential. In the state of Florida, all contractors who perform stucco work must be licensed by the state. This ensures that the work is done safely, to code, and by a contractor who has the necessary experience and knowledge.

There are several other reasons why it’s important to hire a licensed contractor. First and foremost, they are insured. Accidents can happen on any construction project, and if you hire an uninsured contractor, you could be held liable for any damages or injuries that occur on your property. A licensed contractor, on the other hand, will have the necessary insurance coverage to protect you, your property, and their workers.

A licensed contractor will also have the necessary experience and knowledge to do the job right the first time. Stucco is a complex material that requires specialized skills and expertise to install properly. A licensed contractor will know how to prepare the surface, mix the stucco, apply it evenly and smoothly, and finish it to a high standard. They will also be able to advise you on the best materials and techniques to use for your specific project.

Finally, hiring a licensed contractor can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Because they are experienced and knowledgeable, they will be able to complete the job quickly and efficiently, without any costly mistakes or delays. And if any problems do arise, they will have the skills and expertise to fix them quickly and correctly, without causing further damage or disruptions.

In conclusion, it is important to hire a licensed Florida general contractor to do stucco work on your property. Not only is it a requirement by law, but it will also protect you, your property, and the workers on the job. A licensed contractor will have the necessary experience, knowledge, and insurance coverage to do the job safely and correctly, and to save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. If you need stucco work done on your property, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed contractor. They will be able to provide you with a free quote and help you get started on your project.

How to choose a paint sheen

When it comes to painting your home or business, one important decision to make is which paint sheen to use. Paint sheen refers to the level of gloss or shine in the paint, and different sheens can create vastly different looks and effects on your walls.

The most common paint sheens are flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Flat paint has the lowest amount of shine, giving it a matte finish that is perfect for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings. Eggshell paint has a slightly higher amount of shine, giving it a soft and velvety finish that is great for walls and low-traffic areas.

Satin paint has a medium amount of shine, creating a smooth and lustrous finish that is perfect for walls and high-traffic areas. Semi-gloss paint has a high amount of shine, giving it a radiant and reflective finish that is great for trim and other surfaces that need to be easily cleaned.

Finally, gloss paint has the highest amount of shine, creating a vibrant and glossy finish that is perfect for trim, doors, and other surfaces that need to be durable and easy to clean.

When choosing a paint sheen, it’s important to consider the type of surface you are painting and the intended use of the space. For example, a flat paint sheen may be a good choice for a bedroom wall, while a semi-gloss paint sheen may be better suited for a kitchen backsplas

Overall, understanding the different paint sheens and their characteristics can help you make the right choice for your painting project and create the perfect look and finish for your space. 

Contact us today for a free paint quote for your home or office!

The importance of hiring a licensed architect

Hiring a licensed Florida architect is an important decision for anyone embarking on a new construction project. Architects are trained professionals who are skilled in designing & planning buildings that are functional, safe, & aesthetically pleasing. By working with an architect you can ensure that your project meets all building codes and regulations, and that it will stand the test of time.

One of the most important reasons to hire an architect licensed in your state is that their expertise in building design and construction. Architects are educated in a lot of subjects, including structural engineering, materials, & construction techniques. They’re also trained to understand the specific requirements and challenges of each project, & can provide insights and recommendations critical for the success of your project.

Another benefit of working with a licensed architect is their ability to create a design that is not only functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also fits specifically with your budget and meets your needs. Architects are skilled in developing innovative solutions that balance form and function. They can also help you make informed decisions about the design of your project.

Hiring a licensed architect can help you avoid potential problems & delays during the construction process. Architects are familiar with our local building codes and regulations, and can help ensure that your project complies with all applicable laws and standards. They can also provide valuable guidance and support throughout the construction process, helping to prevent costly mistakes and delays.

Hiring a licensed architect is a super important investment in the success of any construction project. By working with a trained and experienced professional, you can benefit from our expertise and knowledge, and ensure that your project is designed and built to the highest standards.

Important Questions To Ask Your Architect

Previously, we discussed the importance of hiring a great general contractor for your new construction or renovation project. Similar to the contractor you choose, your architect is a critical selection in leading to your project’s success. However, many clients are unsure of what to ask when looking for an architect to make sure it’s the right fit. Below, we list some helpful questions to ask before your next project.

“Why do I need an architect?”
This question is one that a client should ask themselves so they can effectively communicate what they’d like for their architect to do. Since architects can provide a variety of services, it’s important for clients to have specific goals in mind. For example, do you need an architect to create a conceptual design? Or do you need someone to review and sign off on a permit?

This question can also help architects better understand your end goal for the project. When it comes to new construction, an architect will factor in your budget, lifestyle, and design preferences.

“What is included in your basic services for a project as my architect?”
Many clients are not familiar with the different types of schematics and drawings that go into new construction. This question helps you understand which basic services your architect will provide. This can also alert you as to whether you’ll need supplementary or additional services for your project.

“What will be expected of me as the client?”
Sometimes, clients do not have existing drawings, surveys, or permit records for the property they are building. In this case, there are additional steps the client may have to handle for the architect to perform their duties.

This is also a point to consider if you want an additional level of detail and management to be provided for your project. This can be delivered for your project through an interior designer, Fixture, Finishes and Equipment (FFE) Selection, or construction administration services.

“What is your design process like?”
This question can help the client understand what phases their architectural project will have and ensure everyone is on the same page. This can also help clients understand their level of involvement at each stage.

If you’re looking for an experienced and innovative architect in Fort Lauderdale, contact us at Rose Architects.

The Importance of Hands-On General Contractors

One of the quickest ways to complicate a project is to have a general contractor who is not thoroughly involved. Without a hands-on approach, a general contractor cannot manage the needs of the client, the architect, and the many subcontractors on a given project. This can cause long delays and expensive mistakes. To help save time and money, we discuss some features of a “hands-on” general contractor below.

Being a hands-on general contractor starts with regularly visiting the construction site and having a full understanding of all of the trades involved, such as plumbing, electrical, and so on. Regular involvement helps to establish a good rapport with the subcontractors and helps the general contractor provide accurate information to their client. This all sets the tone for the project and helps everyone involved stay on the same page for maximum efficiency.

Regular site visits also give the general contractor a chance to zoom out and take in a holistic overview of the project. They must know how every moving part is connected to one another throughout different phases of the project, and how changes or delays can impact this dynamic process. It’s much easier to orchestrate a complex project when the general contractor is proactively at the job site and closely involved with the day-to-day.

A hands-on general contractor also does regular walkthroughs with subcontractors. Usually, a subcontractor receives a “punch list” or a to-do list explaining which tasks need to be done by which date. As a project progresses, however, new tasks may come up and get lost in the constant construction happening on the site. This is where a general contractor can assist with a walkthrough or physical layout of the project. This process helps orient subcontractors so that the architect’s design and client’s desires are executed properly to their full intent.

It’s important for general contractors to be hands-on during every step of the construction process. They serve as the main point of contact for everyone involved on the project and their effective communication and delegation is the key to a successful outcome.

If you’re looking for a general contractor in Fort Lauderdale, you can read more about the typical process here, or contact Rose Architecture + Construction to consult with our team about your dream project!

Supply Shortages and Your Construction Project

For the past two years, supply chain shortages have put the construction industry through the ringer. Materials are scarce and project costs have reached a 50-year high. Yet, many clients don’t know how much this shortage can impact their construction plans. Below, we explain some challenges facing new construction right now and how clients can best prepare themselves.

Challenge #1: Inconsistent, unpredictable inventory
The immediate effect of global supply shortages is that vendors have less stock available. With reduced labor and major shipping delays, it is also difficult to predict restocks.

This means many online inventories and estimated delivery dates are inaccurate. It’s important for clients to understand that many vendors will list products as “in stock” because they’ve ordered it from the manufacturer, not because it’s currently in their storefront.

Similarly, estimated delivery dates are just that – estimates. For example, raw materials typically see a delivery delay of 3-6 weeks. For materials coming from overseas, the delay can be as long as 5-11 months. This is also true for appliances and furniture due to shortages of steel and small, finished parts.

Some vendors have stopped taking new orders entirely for 2022 due to their backlog, further reducing global stock. The lack of inventory brings us to the next challenge.

Challenge #2: Increased construction costs
Limited stock means that projects are more expensive. How expensive? According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, construction costs went up by 17.5% in 2021 alone. Prices for individual materials have also increased. In turn, price quotes have become volatile; as parts go in and out of stock, quotes that used to be good for months need to be updated every few days.

Tips for Clients
So what can a prospective client do in the face of a supply shortage? The most important thing is for clients to remember that their construction team is always working with them to deliver on their design goals. Besides trusting the process, here are some tips:

Be Flexible: It may take a little longer, be a bit more expensive, or require an atypical approach to achieve your design dreams.

Start Early: If possible, it’s best to start planning out your project as soon as possible. This gives your design and construction team time to source supplies at the best rate and account for any market changes. You can learn more about beginning the new construction process here.

Expect Delays: With the supply chain shortage, even the best planned projects may experience some delays. Your design team will help factor this into your project goals.

Be Prepared to Act Fast: Limited quantities means that price quotes can change quickly. Be prepared for any developments in your project and communicate in a timely manner so your team can best serve you.

If you’re looking for an experienced and resourceful Architect and General Contractor in Fort Lauderdale to see your project through these challenges, contact us at Rose Architecture + Construction.

Recommended Products

This page highlights the products and tools we recommend across our jobs and promote via various social channels. Note that some of these have affiliate links, which means we are compensated if you purchase. This list will be updated often so check back for more!

  1. Ray-Ban stories: https://amzn.to/3w1cvR8
  2. Smartkey deadbolts: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F8MT9Q6/?tag=zr087-20
  3.  13″ flush mount ceiling light: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VB3NR29/?tag=zr087-20
  4. Laser transit by Johnson: https://amzn.to/3FnPFGk