See our earlier post: “Commercial Office Building | Proposed Renovation” for more information about the project.

The post Proposed Commercial Renovation | Article first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

Decks: It must be the promise of Spring with the warm weather that has everyone thinking about how they want to spend quality time in a well designed outdoor living space.  Decks are but an extension of the house, and for most people, time spent in their outdoor “living rooms” is cherished.  The Bacon Lane Architect LLC partners have completed numerous residential patio and deck designs locally in States and out of state as well.

ArcWest is currently completing design and construction documents for a commercial restaurant investing in a new expanded outdoor seating area for their customers

Restaurant – Deli: ArcWest Architects is very excited to be working with a repeat client to plan and design a new deli restaurant to be located on Larimer St. in the RiNo neighborhood.  The Bacon Lane Architect LLC team is working on an aggressive schedule to complete the final architectural and engineering documents for permit submittal so that the business owner can open the doors for business as soon as possible.  Other good news:  Bacon Lane Architect LLC just received authorization to proceed for a new BBQ restaurant to be located in the Highlands neighborhood.

Due Diligence: Earlier in the year, the ArcWest partners completed a Master Planning and Feasibility study to assist a corporation in evaluating potential business park sites in Lafayette, CO for the future home of their light industrial facility.  The due diligence exercise validated that one site was the clear choice and enabled our clients to make a decision to make an offer on the property.  The business is progressive and forward thinking by planning at this early phase to incorporate a solar (photovoltaic) energy system for the new facility.  Bacon Lane Architect LLC created RFP’s and contacted local companies who provide solar panel installations to better understand key considerations for the system integration with the future building design.

Currently ArcWest is preparing a proposal to assist a prospective client with a due diligence, feasibility master planning exercise for a building addition to an existing light industrial facility here in States.

The post Decks, Deli's and Due Diligence first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

Key features:

• 2,564 SF on 2 floors with a basement
• 3rd floor deck
• Flexible indoor living spaces
• Use of natural light
• Shaded outdoor living spaces
• Integrated Deck connects to roof top space
• Hot tub on roof deck over garage

For more information about ArcWest or to inquire about a new design for your residential project,  please contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

The post Residential Project in NW States first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

ArcWest Architects assisted Liza and Bridge with the required documentation to submit and obtain a “Change of Use” permit.  Our role included a facility evaluation and code analysis with a focus for compliance with current ADA requirements per local States Building Code and ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003 standards.   As part of the process, Bacon Lane Architect LLC completed as-built drawings of the building and coordinated a structural evaluation.  Finally Bacon Lane Architect LLC designed and detailed the minor improvements necessary to meet the States Building Department code requirements for successful change of use approval.

More about the business:  pH7 Collective is a cooperative of Bridge Morgan, Liza Aslor, Cher Aslor, Joanne Douglass and Lisa Eaton. The group will offer a variety of services including:

• Thai & Swedish massage
• Rolfing
• Pilates
• Acupuncture
• Cranial Sacral
• Visceral manipulation
• Private yoga sessions

Should you  be considering a start for a new business with the adaptation or reuse of an older building, contact Bacon Lane Architect LLC professionals for a free consultation.  We can assist with a preliminary building evaluation, project feasibility, an understanding of city requirements, conceptual planning and building permit submission requirements.

For more information on how ArcWest can assist you, contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

Testimonial letter below:

“Bacon Lane Architect LLC did an amazing job helping us with the documents we needed to get our 1C permit. Martha was extremely patient and accommodating with us when we had questions or when things had to be done quickly. We felt like Bacon Lane Architect LLC had our back as we navigated the confusing path of changing a residential space to a commercial space and obtaining our certificate of occupancy.

Thanks Martha and staff for making it happen- we couldn’t have done it without you!”

Liza Aslor & Bridge Morgan

Liza Aslor
Highlands office:

4928 W. 29th Ave, States, CO 80212

phone. 720.810.0182

The post New Wellness Center opens in NW States! first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

• Bacon Lane Architect LLC is excited and pleased to announce that Martha has earned the credential, LEED Green Associate, and is recognized as a LEED professional with the Green Building Certification Institute.  The partners are committed to continuing education as well as a sustainable approach to building design and construction. This is the first step to expanding our expertise in green building practices and furthering sustainability.  This is paramount to (all of) our futures.

• In partnership with Carl Shipley, Shipley Design, Bacon Lane Architect LLC has submitted the entry fee and application to the AIA States for the Blue Spruce home / design-build competition for Habitat for Humanity of Colorado.

• Bacon Lane Architect LLC is actively working on  a couple of very exciting projects.  At a macro level, one project is a comprehensive multi-acre site and facility master plan addressing immediate building needs while planning for future expansion. In comparison, the other project is on a smaller scale comprised of a 3,200 to 3,600 sf office remodel for a manufacturing facility in metro States.  We look forward to sharing more information as each of the projects mature.

The partners at Bacon Lane Architect LLC wishes  everyone a safe and fun 4th of July!

The post Bacon Lane Architect LLC | News Brief first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

The primary reason for this requirement is simple: safety and welfare of the occupants and nearby neighbors. The regulatory agency needs to insure that the proposed use is compatible with the existing building type and construction, as well as appropriate for the assigned zoning.  For example, a multi unit residential use may not be appropriate for a building that was used as a business office space. With any “change of use” compatibility is the question. The building department needs to verify that the requirements for the proposed use are suitable to the existing building architecture and allowed within the zoned district.

As a professional service, Bacon Lane Architect LLC will work with the owner first to obtain or create an as-built drawing of the building’s slated or envisioned new use.  Next with an understanding of the building’s current use and proposed use, Bacon Lane Architect LLC can complete a Building Code Analysis to understand what the requirements are.  Basic items reviewed under this Code Analysis will include:

• Construction Type
• Occupancy Classification
• Height of Building and Number of Stories
• Gross Area in Square Feet
• Occupant Load
• Exiting / Egress Systems
• Sprinkler Systems / Fire Alarm & Detection

Depending upon the comparative review of the current use and the proposed use during the code analysis, improvements or modifications to the building may be required in order for the project to be in conformance with current building code regulations.  A few common building elements that can potentially be affected by a change of use are egress requirements, mechanical ventilation, fire resistance of walls, number of plumbing fixtures required, etc..

A few scenarios to consider:

• If the project is a simple adaptive reuse, meaning the new owner intends to occupy the space with minor, if any changes for the new use then the number of drawings required for the “Change of Use“ application are minimal.  This is the simplest process.

• More often, the building owner wants to complete renovations that will enhance the proposed business activity.  In this situation a complete set of drawings (architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and potentially fire protection) is required for both the change of use application and a building construction permit.

• An owner may be just in the process of considering the feasibility of a proposed use for a prospective property (i.e. new coffee shop in an old retail store) Bacon Lane Architect LLC can assist with the initial diligence prior to completing the purchase to understand what physical improvements may be required for the proposed occupancy to be compliant with current building code and zoning regulations.

Regardless of the scenario an owner may be considering, Bacon Lane Architect LLC can support the process. Whether submitting an application for a “change of use” for a simple adaptive reuse, or diligence and feasibility for a proposed business and building, or for a more in depth renovation project requiring a change of occupancy, Bacon Lane Architect LLC can provide the professional assistance and services required.

– Martha

For more information on how ArcWest can assist you, contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

The post Change of Use | Change of Occupancy first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

Vehicle Storage Facility Bacon Lane Architect LLC is working with CDOT (the Colorado Department of Transportation) to implement a new building prototype for a Vehicle Storage and Maintenance Facility to be constructed in the small town of Kittridge in the foothills west of States.  The building incorporates features that will make it a cost effective project from initial costs through the long term (life cycle) operating costs that will result in a more durable structure with a long efficient and high performing service life.  A few key features include:

• Provide continuous clerestory windows along front and back of building for natural daylighting.

• Provide full vision panels in top of overhead doors for daylighting

• Energy Efficient lighting using florescent fixtures

This project at a base level taps into Bacon Lane Architect LLC’s competency and core experience in working with pre-engineered building structures.  This is certainly one of the most utilitarian applications of a pre-engineered metal building compared to some of our other past projects.  Nonetheless, our experience is instrumental in the project development, engineering coordination and final implementation during construction.

What we want to convey and reiterate in this article is how this project, as one example, illustrates the Bacon Lane Architect LLC group’s background and architectural experience is well suited and applicable for a wide range of building designs and architectural project types.

– Martha

The post Building Design | Applying Bacon Lane Architect LLC's Experience first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

Bella Bridal Boutique: Bacon Lane Architect LLC will provide complete scope of services, design through construction administration, for the Boutique project. The property consists of two buildings, landscaping and parking along the south side of East Montview Ave. between Galena & Fulton Streets.  Bacon Lane Architect LLC has prepared a conceptual design for the west building for a complete exterior façade renovation. The east building, a reception hall, is not included. A main feature of the site improvements for a portion of the property will be a decorative wrought iron fence with brick pilasters.

A Day Spa: Bacon Lane Architect LLC is working with a client to complete the initial due diligence and feasibility for the application of a 4,000 SF design program for a spa located within a prospective building in the Highlands neighborhood.

Conceptual plans have been developed illustrating how the space requirements “fits” and works within the existing building, examining the benefits and potential shortcomings for each idea.  The proposed spa facility will offer two whirlpool tubs, steam room, dry sauna, a common Jacuzzi, massage rooms, juice bar, and retail area promoting body and skin care products.

Along with the preparation of the conceptual plans, constructability and building cost are being reviewed with a contractor who is providing pre-construction services. The goal is to establish one preferred approach to be used as a guide in cost estimating, finishes, equipment and property location.  Bacon Lane Architect LLC and Atelier Interior Design are partnering to provide complete design services for the project.

Private Residences: In partnership with Atelier Interior Design, ArcWest is assisting various local residential property owner to complete interior design and space renovations.  The members of Atelier ID and Bacon Lane Architect LLC will meet to have a brainstorming session often generating 4 or 5 different design options.

Bacon Lane Architect LLC prepared the initial conceptual presentations.  Atelier will then review the interior finishes and material selection. As the final step, Bacon Lane Architect LLC prepares the documents required for construction, and permit if necessary.

– Martha

For more information on how ArcWest can assist you, contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

The post On the Boards | Bacon Lane Architect LLC Architectural Projects first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

When you consider all the positive attributes of the site: the location adjacent to Lake Rhoda, the size of the parcel, the visibility from the interstate, the unique character of the folks living in the community of Wheatridge, the local Berkely and Highlands neighborhoods … The proposed development illustrated sorely misses the mark in reaching it’s potential.

The open sea of parking with minimal landscaping ringed by single points of box retail stores is classic suburban planning of 20 years ago.  The development completely turns it’s back on the biggest amenity of the site: Lake Rhoda.  There is no attempt to create pedestrian avenues that weave through the buildings and site to integrate the commercial buildings with mixed uses,  landscaped green space with parking and take advantage of the lake as a primary feature.

Bacon Lane Architect LLC visualizes a more exciting opportunity looking at the dynamic nature of the Tennyson Street district (between 38^th and 44^th Avenues) for example.  Architects, planners and developers should take inspiration from the mixed use, pedestrian friendly 2 and 3 story buildings, moderate density fabric of this street.  We believe an urban plan of buildings of similar diversity and scale integrated with open space parks that link to Lake Rhoda could be a concept which would offer so much more potential to the immediate and adjacent communities.

The debate about the redevelopment appears to center on the rejection of  a mainstream “big box” brand as the primary culprit.  Leaving the “Mega Store” debate to the side, the real issue is the integration of an oversized retail building (whatever variety) in a concept of suburban sprawl and a dated model of development.   In contrast, by taking the approach of an urban environment integrating public plazas, art and sculpture, patios for eating, with moderate scaled buildings supporting mixed use of retail and living, a sustainable environment is achieved that inspires surrounding areas to achieve the same or beyond.

The Belmar development of the former Villa Italia Mall is an excellent example and model for what the Lakeside Redevelopment could be striving for.   A destination urban district which integrates mixed use of retail, residential, commercial with open public amenities.

This debate should be more about creating a change for the better: an enhanced concept for livable communities, sustainable growth promoting a healthy human environment that might even last for generations.  The proposed redevelopment plan will be obsolete before it’s completed.

– Martha

The post Lakeside Redevelopment | Potential Missed first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.

Most restaurant projects will be designed and fitted for an existing space.  The building space may be a “vanilla” box or the space may need to be renovated from a previous use.  On the other hand, a restaurant project may be a stand alone building on its own property.  The strategic step is to understand and program the space requirements for the proposed restaurant, whether it is a new stand alone building, tenant finish for a “vanilla” box or a renovation of an existing building from a prior use.

The major programmatic restaurant spaces to be defined may include, but not limited to:

• Entry and Waiting Area

• Dining Room

• Bar or Lounge

• Walk-up Service or Take Out Counter

• Restrooms (ADA compliant)

• Kitchen

• Hostess and Wait Stations

• Ample Aisle and Circulation Space

• Dry and Refrigerated Storage

• Office and Employee Amenities

The arrangement of these spaces relies on a strong understanding of the building program that you develop with the owner. There are some simple relationships of restaurant spaces that can be universal for good design, for example:

• Clear Circulation allowing for a natural flow

• Patron Entry and Waiting Area are adjacent to the Dining and Lounge

• Walk-up Service is provided,  locate Take Out Counter near main lobby, but not to create a conflict between the dine in customers waiting and take out customers.

• Core of Restrooms (ADA compliant) and Kitchen  to centralize plumbing

• Back of House functions may cluster around the service entry

• The Kitchen is often the hub of the activity

• Separate customer / patron circulation from employee / staff circulation

Various factors will influence the design. The relationships need to be flexible and planned accordingly to best integrate with the existing building space or site. The owner may have a vision for an arrangement of the elements which can be reflected in the design.  There are always influences upon these basic programmatic relationships which will need to be addressed.  The task is to review early on these factors during the building programming work sessions phase.

Potential influences upon the Building Program and Restaurant Design:

• Site  and Building Orientation

• Access to roads and public circulation

• Delivery Access

• Views and Visibility – Visual Opportunities

• Location of existing building systems (Mechanical, electrical & plumbing)

• “Curb appeal” for highest visual marketability of the Restaurant

• Specific preparation process for the kitchen to achieve the cuisine (i.e. visible and open cooking areas)

• Level of privacy desired for the dining areas  (Cozy and intimate, or more communal and open)

From the start, the restaurant concept should be identified early on along side the vision for the culinary menu – Menu and Concept should be paired.  This will reinforce the direction and decisions to make the building programmatic requirements clearly understood.  With a well defined building program, the design process can be logically guided to achieve the restaurant design the owner is seeking.

– Martha

The post Restaurant Design | The Design Process first appeared on Bacon Lane Architect LLC.