Gaines Group Architects

Help us determine the best of the best – architectural details – week 3

Votes are in for Week 2, check for that post to see who won. Over the last 26 years we have done some really fun design projects at our firm. While every project has some very interesting design components, there have been a few that just really stand out. Here are some images of...

Custom Home – How to Get Started (Part 4)

Catch up on this series “Custom Home – How to Get Started” with the following links: Part one – Part two – Part three – Part four – Part five – Part six – Part seven Now that the design process has kicked off there are a series of steps that...

Green Term Defined: Blower Door Test

The most important cost-effective construction solution used to lower energy bills is a reduction of air-leakage. The test used to determine air tightness in a home is required in the 2009 International Residential Code, it is called a blower door test. However, there is a second...

Help us determine the best of the best – architectural details – week 2

Votes are in for Week 1, check for that post to see who won. Over the last 26 years we have done some really fun design projects at our firm. While every project has some very interesting design components, there have been a few that just really stand out. Here are some images of...

Custom Home – How to Get Started (Part 3)

Catch up on this series “Custom Home – How to Get Started” with the following links: Part one – Part two – Part three – Part four – Part five – Part six – Part seven In our discussion, you have now decided to hire an architect and found the...

Welcome our newest team member – Meg Carpenter

For Immediate Release: The Gaines Group, PLC adds depth and experience with Meg Carpenter Press Inquiries: Charles Hendricks, AIA, CSI, CDT, CAPS, CGP, LEED AP 540-437-0012, [email protected] Charlottesville, VA – The Gaines Group, PLC is pleased to announce...

Living a life on purpose as an architect #VBKeynote recap

Valley Business Keynote (#VBKeynote) was an incredible event this year with a focus on living your life on purpose, doing what you love, and loving others in your life.    Valley Business Keynote is an annual event that facilitates engaging ideas for local leaders to help...

Help us determine the best of the best – architectural details – Week 1

Over the last 26 years we have done some really fun design projects at our firm. While every project has some very interesting design components, there have been a few that just really stand out. Here are some images of three of my favorites. Which do you like best – vote...

Custom Home – How to Get Started (Part 2)

Catch up on this series “Custom Home – How to Get Started” with the following links: Part one – Part two – Part three – Part four – Part five – Part six – Part seven So now you have decided to hire an architect. How do you find the right...

Green term defined: solar reflectance index

When looking at cities on Google earth, we see a lot of dark surfaces. Most roofing is a dark color. Pavement is typically a dark color. It appears that even the majority of our cars are dark. This all contributes to something called “heat island impact.” To combat...