Journal

Thoughts on building in Oregon.

Guides, opinions, and lessons from fifteen years of designing things in the Willamette Valley.

Featured · Homebuilding · December 2026

Why Your Architect's Fee Saves You Money: The Math Nobody Shows You

Think architect fees are expensive? I'll show you the real numbers on how hiring an architect in Oregon actually saves you money on your building project—sometimes tens of thousands of dollars.

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Oregon · December 2026

Oregon Window Strategies: Getting Daylight Without Losing Heat in Eugene Homes

Licensed architect Andy Drake shares practical window design strategies for Oregon homes that maximize natural light while maintaining energy efficiency through our wet, gray winters.

Design · November 2026

The Future of Small-Firm Architecture: How One-Person Studios Compete with AI

AI isn't replacing small architecture firms—it's changing how we work. As a Eugene architect, I've learned to use AI as a tool while delivering the personal service and local expertise that large firms and algorithms can't match.

Design · November 2026

Why I Design the Mudroom Before the Kitchen: A Eugene Architect's Approach

Most architects start with the kitchen. I start with the mudroom. Here's why this mudroom first architecture approach creates better homes for Eugene families dealing with Oregon's wet climate.

Design · October 2026

AI Floor Plan vs Architect: What Oregon Builders Really Need to Know

Thinking about using AI for your Eugene home's floor plan? I've tested these tools myself. Here's what works, what doesn't, and when you absolutely need a real architect.

Homebuilding · October 2026

The First 90 Days of Your Custom Home: An Oregon Architect's Reality Check

What really happens in the first three months of building a custom home in Oregon? An experienced Eugene architect breaks down the reality behind permits, site work, and foundation delays you need to know about.

Homebuilding · September 2026

Architect vs Contractor: What Each Does That the Other Can't

Planning a building project in Oregon? Understanding the architect vs contractor difference is crucial. Learn what each professional brings to your project and why you might need both.

ADU · September 2026

SB 391 ADU Oregon 2026: What Eugene Homeowners Need to Know Now

Oregon's SB 391 brings major changes to ADU regulations in 2026. Eugene architect Andy Drake breaks down what homeowners need to know about the new rules, permitting changes, and how to prepare your property.

Homebuilding · August 2026

How to Interview an Architect: 10 Questions That Reveal Everything

Choosing the right architect for your Oregon project starts with asking the right questions. Here are 10 essential questions that will reveal everything you need to know about a potential architect before you hire them.

Design · August 2026

How to Design a Home Office That Actually Works in Eugene

Skip the desk-in-the-corner approach. Here's how to create a functional home office that works with Oregon's climate and Eugene's unique housing stock.

Homebuilding · July 2026

Do You Even Need an Architect? A Straight Answer for Oregon Builders

Not every building project needs an architect, but some absolutely do. Here's when you need one, when you don't, and when it's your call in Oregon.

ADU · July 2026

What I Learned from Designing ADUs for Aging Parents in Oregon

After designing dozens of ADUs for aging parents in Eugene and the Willamette Valley, I've learned what works—and what doesn't. Here's what every Oregon homeowner should know about creating a safe, comfortable space for their parents.

ADU · June 2026

Starting Your Eugene ADU: What to Know Before You Draw a Line

Setbacks, lot coverage, and the permit path that actually works in Eugene — a practical starting point for an accessory dwelling.

Homebuilding · June 2026

The Architect's Real Value: What You're Actually Paying For (It's Not Just Drawings)

Thinking an architect just draws pretty pictures? Think again. Here's what architect value for homeowners actually includes - from code compliance to construction oversight - and why it matters for your Oregon building project.

Design · June 2026

Small Homes, Big Design: Why 1500 Square Feet Might Be All You Need in Oregon

As an Oregon architect, I've designed countless small homes that live much larger than their square footage suggests. Here's why 1500 square feet might be the sweet spot for Willamette Valley living.

Design · May 2026

I Use AI to Render Your Home in 30 Seconds. Here's What That Actually Means for You.

AI architectural rendering is changing how we design homes in Oregon. As a licensed architect in Eugene, I'll explain what 30-second AI renderings actually deliver and when they're worth using for your building project.

Homebuilding · May 2026

How to Choose a Contractor in Eugene: An Architect's Guide to Finding the Right Builder

After 15 years designing homes from the South Hills to Whiteaker, I've seen what separates great contractors from disasters. Here's my insider guide to finding the right builder for your Eugene project.

Design · April 2026

How AI is Changing Architecture — And What It Means for Your Home Project in Oregon

As an architect in Eugene, I'm seeing AI transform how we design homes. Here's what this technology revolution means for your residential project — and whether you should care.

Oregon · April 2026

Energy-Efficient Homes in Oregon: What Actually Matters for Eugene Valley Living

After 15 years designing homes in Eugene's climate, I've learned what actually makes a difference in energy efficiency. Forget the marketing fluff—here's what works in the Willamette Valley.

Homebuilding · March 2026

Forever Home vs Investment Property: Why Your Building Priorities Matter in Oregon

Building a forever home versus an investment property requires completely different approaches. As an architect in Eugene, I've designed both, and the priorities couldn't be more different.

Homebuilding · March 2026

The Real Home Building Timeline in Oregon: What to Actually Expect

Building a home in Oregon takes longer than you think. As an Eugene architect, I break down the real timeline—from permits to keys—without the sales pitch.

Design · February 2026

Why I Draw by Hand Before I Open the Computer

Before firing up AutoCAD for any project, I grab my pencil. Hand drawing architecture isn't just old-school nostalgia—it's the fastest way to solve design problems and communicate with clients.

Design · February 2026

Why Your Architect Should Think Like an Interior Designer

Building a custom home in Eugene means more than just walls and a roof. Here's why finding an architect who understands interior design creates better Oregon homes that actually work for daily life.

Oregon · January 2026

The South Hills Lot: How Slope Changes Everything About Design

Building on Eugene's South Hills presents unique design challenges and opportunities. Learn how slope dictates everything from foundation choices to room placement in hillside home design.

Homebuilding · January 2026

Building on a Slope in the South Hills: What Every Eugene Homeowner Needs to Know

Building a hillside home in Eugene's South Hills presents unique challenges and opportunities. From soil stability to drainage, here's what I've learned from decades of designing homes on Eugene's slopes.

Accessible Design · December 2025

What Aging in Place Really Means (It's Not What You Think)

Most people think aging in place design is about grab bars and ramps. As an Oregon architect, I've learned it's actually about creating homes that adapt to how we live at every stage of life.

Renovation · December 2025

Kitchen Renovations in Eugene: What Actually Moves the Needle

After twenty years designing kitchen renovations in Eugene, I've learned what upgrades actually improve your home's value and livability versus what's just trendy noise.

Homebuilding · November 2025

How to Read an Architect's Floor Plan: A Eugene Homeowner's Complete Guide

Confused by architectural drawings? Licensed architect Andy Drake breaks down floor plan symbols, measurements, and key details every Eugene homeowner should understand before building or renovating.

ADU · November 2025

The Domino ADU: Why I Got My Design Pre-Approved by Eugene

Getting a pre-approved ADU design through Eugene's system saved my clients months of permitting time. Here's why the Domino works so well for South Hills lots and what the pre-approval process actually involves.

Oregon · October 2025

Oregon Building Permits Comparison: Eugene vs Portland vs Bend - What Homeowners Need to Know

Planning a home project in Eugene? Here's how our permitting process compares to Portland and Bend, plus insider tips to navigate the system efficiently.

Oregon · October 2025

How Oregon Rain Shapes Every Home I Design

After 15 years designing homes in Eugene, I've learned that Oregon rain isn't just weather—it's a design partner. Here's how I build houses that work with our climate, not against it.

Design · September 2025

The Materials I Spec Most (and Why): A Field Guide to Oregon Building Materials

After 15 years designing homes in Eugene, I've learned which materials work best in our climate. Here's my honest take on what I specify most—and why these choices make sense for Willamette Valley homeowners.

ADU · September 2025

ADU FAQ: Everything Eugene Homeowners Ask Me About Accessory Dwelling Units

Licensed architect Andy Drake answers the most common ADU questions from Eugene homeowners, from permits and costs to design considerations for our Pacific Northwest climate.

Homebuilding · August 2025

What Your Contractor Wishes Your Architect Had Done Better: An Honest Look at the Design-Build Relationship

After 15 years designing homes in Eugene, I've learned what makes contractors happy—and what drives them crazy. Here's what every homeowner should know about the architect contractor relationship in Oregon.

Homebuilding · August 2025

What to Expect When You Hire an Architect for the First Time in Oregon

Thinking about hiring an architect for your Eugene home project? From initial consultations to final construction drawings, here's what first-time clients can expect when working with an Oregon architect.

Accessible Design · July 2025

Multigenerational Home Design: Building for Three Generations Under One Roof in Eugene

Rising housing costs and changing family dynamics are bringing multiple generations together. Here's how to design a home that works for grandparents, parents, and kids in the Willamette Valley.

Design · July 2025

The Covered Porch: Oregon's Most Underrated Room

From the South Hills to Whiteaker, covered porches are Oregon's secret weapon against rain. Eugene architect Andy Drake explains why your home needs this transitional space and how to design one that actually works.

Design · June 2025

Why Covered Outdoor Space Is Non-Negotiable in the Willamette Valley

Living in Eugene means embracing the outdoors year-round, but our unique climate demands smart design. Here's why covered outdoor space isn't luxury—it's necessity.

Design · June 2025

Why Every Oregon Home Needs a Mudroom (And How to Do It Right)

Living in Eugene means dealing with rain, mud, and outdoor gear year-round. Here's how to design a mudroom that actually works for Oregon life—from Soap Creek Road farmhouses to South Hills additions.

Renovation · May 2025

Before and After: How a Smart Addition Transformed This 1970s Ranch in West Eugene

A thoughtful 600-square-foot addition turned a cramped 1970s ranch into a light-filled family home. See how smart design choices made all the difference in this West Eugene transformation.

Accessible Design · May 2025

Designing for Every Stage of Life: Accessible Homes That Work in Eugene

Building homes that adapt to changing needs isn't just about compliance—it's about creating spaces that work for decades. From South Hills slopes to Whiteaker bungalows, here's how to design accessible homes in Eugene that make sense.

Oregon · April 2025

Sustainable Building in Oregon: What's Actually Worth Your Investment

As an architect practicing in Eugene, I've seen countless sustainable building projects. Here's what actually pays off in Oregon's climate and what's just expensive greenwashing.

Design · April 2025

Pacific Northwest Modern vs Oregon Craftsman: Which Architecture Style Fits Your Eugene Home?

Choosing between PNW Modern and Oregon Craftsman styles for your Eugene home? Licensed architect Andy Drake breaks down the practical differences, costs, and what works best in our Willamette Valley climate.

Design · March 2025

How I Use SketchUp to Show Clients Their Home Before It's Built

Discover how a Eugene architect uses SketchUp to create realistic 3D models that help homeowners visualize their future home before construction begins. Learn why this visualization tool matters for your project.

Renovation · March 2025

Renovate or Build New? A Decision Framework for Eugene Homeowners

Facing the choice between renovation and new construction? I've helped dozens of Willamette Valley families make this decision. Here's my practical framework for choosing the right path.

ADU · February 2025

The Real Cost of Building an ADU in Eugene: 2026 Numbers You Need to Know

Thinking about adding an ADU to your Eugene property? Here's what it actually costs in 2026, from permits to finish work. I break down the real numbers based on current projects across the Willamette Valley.

Homebuilding · February 2025

What Does a Custom Home Really Cost in Eugene? A Local Architect's Breakdown

Licensed Eugene architect breaks down actual custom home costs in the Willamette Valley, from South Hills lots to Soap Creek acreage. Real numbers, local factors, and what drives your budget.

Homebuilding · January 2025

Design-Build vs Architect + Contractor: Which Model Works for Your Oregon Project?

Choosing between design-build and the traditional architect-contractor model for your Oregon building project? Here's what you need to know about costs, control, and communication from an Eugene architect's perspective.

ADU · January 2025

Garage Conversions in Eugene: When They Work (And When They Don't)

Thinking about converting your garage into living space? As an Eugene architect, I'll tell you straight when garage conversions make sense and when you're better off looking at other options for your ADU project.

ADU · January 2025

The Complete Guide to Building an ADU in Eugene, Oregon in 2026

Everything Eugene homeowners need to know about ADU design, permits, costs, and construction in 2026. From South Hills lots to Whiteaker neighborhoods, here's your roadmap to adding rental income or multigenerational housing.

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Occasional updates on projects, design ideas, and Oregon building news. No spam — I write every one.