by Architectural Observer | Oct 1, 2019 | Blog, Observations
Recently I attended a birthday party for a retired friend — the location of which was his outdoor entertaining area. A multi-year construction project, the site is now nearing completion. Built entirely from scrap or otherwise salvaged items, the structures...
by Architectural Observer | Sep 8, 2019 | Blog, Observations
A Craftsman bungalow — built with a stucco exterior — is in the process of being clad in vinyl siding. In a presumed effort to facilitate the installation, all of the original stucco is being removed. Amazingly, the stucco had never been painted and...
by Architectural Observer | Jul 10, 2019 | Blog, Observations
Much like porch alterations, replacement doors have the ability to change the way a house looks or is perceived. Unfortunately, most people just buy what they like and give little thought to maintaining the architectural integrity of the exterior when purchasing a new...
by Architectural Observer | Jul 8, 2019 | Blog, Observations
Recently while perusing area real estate listings I ran across an all-too-common offering — the unfinished renovation of a house which had retained a good deal of originality prior to being gutted to the studs. At least it affords us the opportunity to take a...
by Architectural Observer | Jul 1, 2019 | Blog, Observations
Built in three stages beginning in 1885, the house at Cottonwood Ranch in Studley, Kansas, reflects not only the place and time in which it was built, but incorporates some traditions of builder John Fenton Pratt’s native Yorkshire, England, as well. The center...
by Architectural Observer | Jun 21, 2019 | Blog, Observations
Now that’s something you don’t see every day… especially on the High Plains of northwestern Kansas! Both the architectural style and the roof type are atypical of the region. The Jerkinhead roof, a compromise between a gabled roof and a hipped roof,...
