We spent a lovely afternoon last week taking in the inaugural edition of the VSAIA’s new Wine and Design series. Titled Details, Details, the crowd of more than 50 was treated to a series of conversational talks by a diverse group of local architects, designers, and craftspeople. Each offered a unique take on the topic of ‘detail’ with presentations that were lively, humorous, and engaging.
One of the most talented artists and craftsmen we know is having a busy spring. Frequent visitors to this site (and the BAM office) will be familiar with Chris Chase's fine architectural woodwork. In addition to the numerous custom renovations and furniture that always fill his studio, we are pleased to announce that Chris' sculptural works will be getting some well-deserved publicity. A detailed sampling is now accessible via the recently launched Chris Chase Studio website and Facebook page. Chris will also be exhibiting sculptural works as part of two group shows at local galleries during the months of March and April.
The annual Golden Hammer Awards were announced in ceremony last week and we are pleased to report that BAM was clapped at on several different occasions. Presented by the Better Housing Coalition’s newly created Center for Neighborhood Revitalization, the awards recognize projects that make a strong contribution to the preservation and revitalization of Richmond’s historic neighborhoods.
Curious things are happening in Manchester. A mobile kiosk is drawing folks who live and work in the neighborhood onto the streets and asking them to do some drawings of their own. The What Do You See kiosk is designed to spark a conversation with the community and to inspire the way people see Manchester. Inside you’ll find pens and a window where you can sketch and share ideas for the historic district on view just outside. The kiosk is the collaborative effort of a group of young architects (including BAM studio-mate Amrit Singh) from around Virginia who are participating in this year’s Emerging Leaders in Architecture program sponsored by the VSAIA. Conceived, researched, designed, built and marketed by the ELA class, the structure made its debut last weekend at two sites in Old Manchester.
What Do You See will be on display again this Saturday, Oct. 15th, at the Hull Street Library from 10am – 4pm. Don’t miss this chance to engage the community, a group of talented architects and a nice piece of architecture.
Our friends over at Modern Richmond are hosting their latest Exchange this Wednesday night at 5:30 pm. More information is available here and here. On view will be our longtime friends (and clients from La Diff) Andy and Sarah's lovely hilltop residence, for which BAM contributed design services including a new kitchen to replace an old porch. In addition, using only a single sheet of paper and a pair of black pens, our own Bill Church designed the particularly lovely pair of wood and steel columns adjacent to the front door. Besides offering a modern counterpoint to the rustic charm of the existing house (and hinting at the transformation inside), they carry a new rim beam required for bathroom renovations above.
