Build Notes (New Construction, Older Homes, Renovations, Interesting Finishing and Details)
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One thing I wanted to mention, and part of why I enjoy posting this stuff, is that all the bluestone work, the transitions, drain locations throughout the main patio and window well, and how everything ties together is figured out on site by my mason and me.
There are no architectural or engineered drawings for any of this. It’s all experience, a little trial and error, figuring out what we think is aesthetically pleasing, what’s going to function properly, and how to make it all come together. Mix all that together, and this is what you get. It’s one of the things I still really enjoy about building after all these years. -
@northsouthdenimguy that's interesting! That's a lot of liability to take on from a builder standpoint but sounds like you got it down
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Please don’t remind me and say that quietly next time as my General Liability carrier might hear you…
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@northsouthdenimguy LOL understood!
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@northsouthdenimguy I made my own DIY version about 5 years ago. It was nothing special, just burning some T&G cedar with a propane bottle and a weed torch. Looking back, I didn't do nearly as much of a char as I should have. I saw an exhibition probably a decade ago put on by Delta Millworks where they were doing their own version of Shou Sugi Ban. They've become quite a large distributor for it now if you're ever looking to source some:
Delta MillworksHere's the only picture I have handy:
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Very cool and thanks for the link!
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Still needs to be pressure wash and sealed but stone drain cover is in place, turned out pretty sweet
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Thanks man! It’s definitely a little easier at this price point when people are willing to spend the money on the finishes.
You’ll probably never see anything super slick or too modern from me. I like some good historical details, but nothing too over the top. It’s just almost impossible money wise to do things across the board the way they used to.
You can definitely take bits and pieces from older homes though. A lot of it also depends on where you are, not only in the US but around the world. It’s crazy how some things are considerably less expensive elsewhere and almost impossible to do here without spending a fortune.
These are two of my favorite books. I think they make such a difference in understanding how to use certain historical details in today’s homes without making them feel forced or overly traditional.
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@northsouthdenimguy I'll be reading the bottom one later today
The new girls house is a funky mix between 1840's build and 2017-2020 reno hell, it had been gutted and modernized really well but they left a lot of the finish work and second floor undone. She did a really nice job on the kitchen, pantry and first floor layout and materials, but we both agree it striped a little bit of the charm so we've been adding things back in like faux beams made from the original floor joists and stuff like that. I'll also admit I've definitely shown her the fit pics from HWD and here for inspo/motivation too 
