Maybe the second little piggy had it right after all. I know, his house got huffed and straight-up obliterated by the big bad wolf, but perhaps the problem wasn’t the sticks that he used, but more about the application he employed. Russian architect Peter Kostelov built his stick house on a stone foundation and used wood siding for nearly every other section of the home.

The house itself is a marvel to look at. At first glance, your mind sees a one-dimensional structure. The wooden panels look like they’re stacked side-by-side and vertically as a façade and nothing more. Couple that with the reflectiveness of the windows and it looks like you’re seeing right through those panels out to the open world on the other side. In reality, of course, the house is three-dimensional and the windows are reflecting the image of the sky – there’s a whole lot more going on here. (more…)

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One of the most dramatic ways to upgrade the appearance of your home is with new siding. Adding new exterior siding is a significant investment and will affect not only your home’s look but its value as well.

Choosing among the many types of siding products available can be an easier process when you’re working with an experienced, reliable contractor. CalFinder can connect you with reputable and seasoned siding specialists who can take a lot of the guesswork out of deciding which style and type of siding will work best for you and your home.

The advice to look for a siding material that suits the style of your home is simple and solid — and yet, in this day of seemingly limitless options, it can be challenging to hone in on the most effective solution. Stucco, stone, wood, brick, shingles, and shakes are all popular siding types that have been around for a long time. You can also choose from composite wood, aluminum, seamless steel, and vinyl. Looking at resources like Better Homes and Gardens’ Siding Options for Your Home will give you the basics to consider as you start meeting with contractors for more specific advice and estimates.

CalFinder connects you with local siding contractors who can ensure that your project is done professionally for visual appeal and technical excellence. Here are a few examples of outstanding projects and contractors. (more…)

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What happened here?

Don’t worry, it’s just an art installation entitled, “Inversion,” by Dan Havel and Dean Ruck. via Nick Douglas

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