Several things happening this week with wall and roof framing continuing, all windows now in and external first floor decking structure progressing. Image above shows corner windows to upper level sitting room in place. Great spot to sit in winter!

All of this activity means lots of questions to answer.Site discussions this week focussed on power and electrical schematics, external colour selections and tile /paver specifications.

Many design decisions are left over to be resolved in detail once the project is underway. We like to specify the performance and or specification requirements for things like painting and fitout, but we do not necessarily select actual finished colours and finishes for example. We will note material, number of coats, preparation of surface etc. There is a sound reason for this.

Colour samples can look very different in a fan deck or at the hardware store compared to what they will actually look like on site. The location of the build, the orientation, and the combination of colours together can make individual colours look very different in reality when compared to the design intent.

We always find that when selecting paint colours, that they should be reviewed not only in relation to other colour elements in the build (roof colours, clear finished timbers etc) but also reviewed when up on the wall on the site. This means selecting a few samples and painting them on the wall so the reality of the selection can be easily seen. Also, just as importantly, the client can see the reality when compared to those design discussions early on in the process with the architect that may be now forgotten.

As a general rule, we find that external paint colours are two to three shades lighter outside than inside. So when selecting a specifying we often select darker than the intent for this reason. As another tip, we also often specify a 1/2 gloss, 1/2 semi gloss finish (sprayed if the painter doesn’t growl at you!) as the finish is much sharper and clean than a regular roll on finish.

Until next week!