W+P SKETCHBOOK

Color of the Year

2012-01-26T12:31:00.000-08:00

As any company with good brand management in mind,
we ask ourselves the following on a regular basis:

Is our brand effective?
Is it relevant?
Does it accurately represent us?

In the ever evolving world of Architecture and Design, we find ourselves continuously pulling from our surroundings, our experiences, and most importantly- the current trends, in order to answer these fundamental questions. Not only does our brand represent us as a business and the individuals within, but also as a knowlegable and fully integrated entity within the design community as a whole. That's why this year we were excited for Pantone's announcement of Color of the Year. It goes without saying, I personally view Pantone as a susbtaintial contributor, innovator and knowledge hub for design- not just graphics, but architecture, fashion, publishing, cinema, textiles, manufacturing... I could go on and on. They not only are the international authority for color systems, they basically paved the way for modern printing (and let’s face it, even in this age of online media, expression through printed media will forever live on). Their ahead-of-the-curve thinking from the 1950's has translated into contemporary day design communication. That's right- we communicate through color. We feel through color. We live through color.

And what is this year’s color?

Drum-roll, please!

...

....

.....

Introducing “Tangerine Tango”, better known as “17-1463”. An oh-so perfect blend of C, M, Y, and K- this beauty conjures up emotions of energy, spirit, moxie, and well… fun! Forgive me for my analogy, but Tangerine Tango is like what any woman would want from a GREAT man (like I said, I apologize). It gives off an innate aura of adventure, vigor, and electricity… drawing you in with the radiance of its spicy magnetic hue. On the flip, it provides a certain comfort, sophistication, and versatility of friendship, as it blankets you with its warmth. Best of both worlds ladies? --- I think so

In regards to W+P, there is an ever-present discussion surrounding the choice, and continued use of our signature company color. “Is it red? Is it orange? It’s rorange!” – as our mantra goes. Let this help settle the debate once and for all (well, maybe just for 2012).

YES- our color is relevant
YES- our color is up-to-date
YES- our color is “us”

So, the next time our color is called into question, or I’m asked “Why still the roange?” I’m going to default to….

Because Pantone said so.

Happy Coloring~

Want to know more about Pantone and their colors? Check out thier official site @ http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/category.aspx?ca=88 AND PLEASE watch their quick video @ http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=217233624976553, and like them on Facebook while you're there!

Interested in the psychology of color?
Read Faber Birren’s book, Color Psychology and Color Therapy: A Factual Study of the Influence of Color on Human Life --- it’s a must read for you designers out there.

Holiday Greetings

2012-01-25T09:29:00.000-08:00

Once again, we have out-done ourselves!

Us W+P'ers take much pride in our annual holiday cards. Not only do we have WAY too much fun making them, but we are known throughout the area for supplying a little extra holiday cheer (and humor) in each envelope.

This year, our marketing committee combined the festivity of the season, with the spirit of our 30th anniversary. What better way to get some good shots than throwing a mock-cocktail party all week at the office? We sure clean up pretty nice, huh?

A special thanks to…

-Our Jill of all trades, Lauren: for shooting, editing, and composing the card (that's right, we do this all in house!)

-San Juan High School’s Advanced Shop students: for crafting the “30” cutouts!

See what these amazing kids are doing @ https://www.facebook.com/SanJuanUnified

-Tammy and Brian at Master Color Printing: for the high quality finishing! Check them out on @ https://www.facebook.com/mastercolorprinting or at their blog @ http://www.mastercolorprintingblog.com/

Now, for a closer look at all our beautiful peeps...

Architecture Matters

2011-11-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

Bill and I will be presenting. If you would like to join the discussion please follow the link for more info.

http://www.aiacv.org/architecture-matters-design-forum/

-Brian L.

Run to Feed the Hungry 2011

2011-11-28T10:55:00.000-08:00

What better way to feel good about the mass quantities of food about to be consumed than to start the day with a run with 27,000 of your neighbors. That's right, 27,000 people showed up on a cold and RAINY thanksgiving day morning to raise money for the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services, which I believe was around $850,000. Amber and Brian ran the entire 5k... a huge feat considering there was very little training involved. Due to parking troubles... Lauren ended up running a 5k just to get to the race on time, then ran the actual 5k of the race!

27,000+ people... incredible.
Amber and her aunt before the start.

-Brian L.

It's Parade Time!

2011-11-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

Everybody sing: "Nobody, no nobody............is gonna rain on my parade!"
The rain threatened all day but right around parade time the skies cleared, the streets of downtown Roseville started to get crowded just in time to see our annual holiday parade. The event is co-sponsored by the Roseville Chamber of Commerce and the City of Roseville. Filled with floats, marching bands, horses and classic cars it is pure Americana and a fun time. Post-parade, activities included outdoor movies, food, performances by local theaters and even a fruitcake toss, all leading up to the tree lighting. The parade is named after a long-time Roseville resident (dare I say icon?) Sylvia Besana, who organized the parade for as long as anyone can remember. When she passed away a few years ago her friends wanted to continue the parade in her honor. I'm sure Sylvia is proud of the legacy she left behind. I have been a judge for 3 years and every year the rain threatens, but it is always clear parade-time. I say with great love that the rain is probably afraid to rain on Sylvia's parade!

-Naaz

Real Men of "Genius"

2011-11-28T10:04:00.000-08:00

no word yet on whether any of these 'very smart individuals' are still alive...

NEOCON 2011

2011-11-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

Just a few images of the cool new designs at Neocon this year.

- Robi

San Juan H.S. Admin / Media

2011-11-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

It’s not every day that we get an “a-ha” moment about what our work can mean to those who live in it. San Juan Admin / Media team members attended a lunch and tour of the newly finished buildings, the tour was led by Clark & Sullivan (contractors). Yummy BBQ first then a walk-through of the space with members of San Juan school board & district officials. Admin building is great, terrific Spartan logo on the floor in stained concrete. Great light.

On to Media to see their newly finished broadcast studio, production room & classrooms. The media teacher and school principal gave us the tour, they are so jazzed with the state-of-the art space with flexibility to grow as technology changes. But most inspiring are the stories of how the students interface with everything, how the teachers are able to teach classes in a way that motivates and empowers the students because they have the right tools. The principal is so proud of the facility and program that she is reaching out to team with the private sector. The goal is that the program benefits from the talent in the workforce and any sponsorship it can bring in to help funding. But the most important goal is to provide work-force ready students who can function in the real world after graduation. This is what Career Technical Education is all about.

It was evident that everyone was inspired today, not only because of what the space has already accomplished but also because of its potential to accomplish more. The a-ha for me: we designed simple, functional, flexible, spaces filled with light. These spaces have inspired the school (principal, teachers, students) to achieve, beyond their expectations. How cool is that?

Congratulations San Juan Admin / Media team, great accomplishment!

- Naaz

oops

2011-11-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

We have quite a few parents in the office teaching their children to drive. Just one little thing I have learned over the years... before you adjust your mirrors or find your favorite radio station please figure out which pedal is for gas and which is for the brake.

Greg the Roadie

2011-11-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

Greg made the plunge. True Roadie. Still had his since of humor even after some good climbs.
-Terry

[side note] Greg made the entire ride, all 40+ miles of hill after hill. If he could have caught Terry at any point I'm sure he would have pummeled him for convincing him to do a "nice, easy, and not too hilly" ride. Way to go Greg!... but everyone knows real men only ride with one gear.

Hot Pink 5k

2011-11-28T08:52:00.000-08:00

After months of planning and tireless hours spent sending sponsor letters, creating graphics and organizing booth layouts, this year marked the 4th Annual Hot Pink 5K. I had the honor of being a Co-Chair of the event this year. The last three years, the event has started/finished in Historic Old Town Roseville. Last year, we out-grew our space…a nice problem to have. So this year, we made the move to the Fountains and the event got even bigger!! We had over 1,100 runners, hundreds of spectators and raised over $16,000 for the Placer Breast Cancer Endowment. It was a tremendous accomplishment for a run that started out as a small way of supporting breast cancer research. With the success of this year, we have high hopes for next year and big plans to improve on an already successful event.

Kim N.

What Are The Odds?

2011-10-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

Some might say that Brett and I dozed off during a recent lunch time presentation. This is NOT true. On average the human eye blinks 708 times per hour, or 12 times per minute. I'm not sure what the odds are of someone taking a picture at the exact moment that Brett and I blinked but they have to be a million to one. Whomever took this picture should go play the lottery because lady luck is on your side.

Brian L.

New Product

2011-10-25T16:55:00.000-07:00

Jack and Terry have come up with a new product based their love of biking and their need for groceries. Called the Grocery Go Getter Bike Cart, this contraption blends the best of both worlds. There are still a few bugs to work out like brakes and how to steer but those are minor.

Coming soon to a thrift store near you.

Invisible Chair

2011-10-25T16:50:00.001-07:00

No, this isn't magic... but it is pretty cool.

-Yingxi

Fitness Fanatic

2011-10-25T16:45:00.001-07:00

Terry testing his limits during a fitness test. All decked out in race gear on his race bike. We're starting to think that biking is inching closer to architecture as a few of Terry's favorite things. Heck, lets be honest... they are neck and neck at this point.

Mission Accomplished!!!

2011-10-25T16:44:00.000-07:00

· California Triple Crown Winner Baby!!
· Three Double Centuries (200 mile ride) in one calendar year
· 31,000+ feet of slow climbing (Everest +)
· 31,000+ feet of fast descending (gotta love gravity)
· 51+ hours in the saddle
· Countless packets of GU

Well done Jack!

Eyes forward, heads down... it's test time.

2011-10-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

Studies have shown that this method of intense focus has resulted in higher test scores and quite classrooms. Side affects include lack of collaboration, creativity, social awareness and ear infections.

Drawing Safari

2011-10-25T09:46:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I participated in what is known as the Drawing Safari. Local Architect Saxon Sigerson organizes this loosely formatted sketching experience a few times a year. The gist is this... meet somewhere in midtown where Saxon supplies paper and pencils (without erasers) and assigns a place to go study and sketch. This time we studied the stairs of old Victorians in midtown. We split up into teams of 2 and headed out to pre-determined locations to get lost in plans, sections, elevations and perspectives. After a few hours we met back up, enjoyed our brown bag lunches, taped our work on a few old doors and discussed our findings. Given that actual hand sketching is quickly becoming a lost art in the profession, it was nice to put lead back in my hand and let the mind wander as it may. Felt like I was back in design studio in college... if only for a few hours on a beautiful Saturday morning.

-Brian L.

Who's In Charge?

2011-10-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

Early on a Friday morning those of us in the office looked around and noticed that Eric was the most senior member of our staff that was in the office. Eric found this rather funny that he was now "techinally" in charge and decided to play the part...

Eric playing the part of Greg. Although, come to think of it... I have never seen Greg with his feet up. I have however seen Eric with his feet up many times. So, I think Eric is playing himself here... just in Greg's office.
Amber playing Terry. This is more accurate as to feet placement.

Brian being Jack. Why is he so close to the computer screen? Well, Jack is getting up there (59 this week!)... and his eyes aren't what they used to be.

Kim as James. James is our fearless quality control leader. Kim is 'green' marking some drawings... she's only inches away because like Jack, James's eyes aren't what they used to be either.

Joey the dog sitting in for Dan. If you know Dan you have heard his love for dogs. What started as "let's get a dog for the kids" has now turned into an obsession and now Dan looks after 4 dogs. It was only fitting that Joey take over Dan's spot.

Brian playing Robi. If you know Robi you've already laughed at the picture.

Need Help?

2011-10-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have been or still are addicted to angry birds... you'll get the image below.

Rebuilding Together

2011-10-10T14:58:00.000-07:00

And so the day begins...
Tom and Brian tearing off the fascia and eave sheathing

Brian trimming some overgrown trees

Regina and Yingxi playing in the dirt

We have conquered the eaves! Now on to painting...

Regina and Yingxi still hard at work while Amber supervises

Isn't tampering with a federal mailbox a felony? Amber was a Jill of all trades... painter, taper, dissembler, re-assembler, etc...

Regina reliving her Nebraska youth days by riding in the bed of a truck.

More painting...

Tom, Yingxi, Regina, Amber and Brian were on hand, to lend a hand at this years Rebuilding Together house. We were part of a huge crew that included high school students and Raley's supermarket corporate employees, as well as many other helpers. It was a beautiful day and by the end of it the owners were on their way to having a beautiful house once again.

Progress at San Juan H.S.

2011-10-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

Before

After.

The change is remarkable...

SPCA custom dog house(s)

2011-10-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

The above renderings were for the other firms submissions.

A conceptual rendering of our design

Process photos of the construction

The finished table complete with inlaid chess board, toy storage compartment, remote control storage, magazine rack, inlaid coasters, and a dog bed.

Dan Richards here at WP spearheaded an effort to team up local architectural firms with contractors to design and build custom dog houses. The challenge this year was to design a dog house that could also be a piece of furniture. They were auctioned off at the SPCA's annual fundraising event. A big thanks to Dan as well as Regina and Lauren for their input.

Smart...

2011-10-10T10:41:00.000-07:00

"These contractors are installing steel pillars in concrete to stop vehicles from parking on the pavement outside a sports bar downtown. They are now in the process of cleaning up at the end of the day and anxious to go home. How long do you think it will be before they realize where they parked their truck?" - Anonymous

All Dressed Up

2011-10-10T10:37:00.000-07:00

Kim snapped this photo before the team went to an interview.

We are a pretty casual office so seeing everyone in suits and ties was kind of like sending your children off to their first day of school. Mom adjusts the ties and makes sure everyone has their shirts tucked in and dad says good luck and hands them all their lunch boxes.

50 dollars well spent

2011-10-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

Kim grilling up the burgers... YUM!

All the people that ate the yummy burgers.

Kim was the most recent recipient of the random 50 dollars to spend on something fun for the office. Well, when you have a backyard special built for entertaining then it would only make sense to entertain. So, Kim fired up the grill for some delicious burgers accompanied by some ice cold beverages. Only Jim and Joey were brave enough to take a swim but everyone enjoyed relaxing and hanging out for a few hours on a gorgeous Friday afternoon.

Thanks Kim!!

Jack Relaxing...?

2011-08-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

You never know where blog material will come from. Jack's daughter sent me this to post as "other side of dad." She wanted to make note that "he does actually relax (drink coffee and catch up on world news) and take care of two fluff balls :) "

If you know Jack at all you know that he is 100 mph all the time. We've heard stories of him relaxing but just chalked those up to urban legend. Like the Yeti, Sasquatch, and UFO's... people have claimed to have seen them but there is no conclusive evidence. Well, we can scratch "jack relaxing" off the urban legends list and stamp it confirmed.

side note... the authenticity of this photo has been proven but the relaxing part of the story is still in question. Jack is reading the Sunday paper and given the remote location it was probably a 30 mile bike ride into town to just get the paper. That's hardly relaxing in my book but considering he rode 200 miles last month I'll consider it relaxing for him.

Brian L.

MERGE

2011-08-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

The first (hopefully annual) MERGE fashion event was this past weekend. The event was put on by our local chapter of the IIDA (International Interior Design Association) and WP was well represented thanks to remarkable volunteer efforts of Jeff, Kim, Tom, Yingxi, Lauren, Amber and Brian. The Fashion show consisted of gowns made from materials donated from some of our product reps... carpet tile, vinyl wall covering, textiles, solid surface, and ceramic tile. Each team was given their materials upon arrival and given 2.5 hours to assemble a wearable gown that a team member had to model. THANKS LAUREN!!! It was a great team effort with each member chipping in to put their touch on the dress. To top the evening off we WON the top honor of Judges Choice. Well done team!!!

Jeff and Kelli cutting countless triangles of MDC wallcovering which were then folded and attached to the dress

Tom and Kim HAND SEWED the corset top using Momentum Textiles.

Lauren and Yingxi making the structure of the skirt out of an old belt, irrigation pipe, staples and muslin... that is some creativity!

Brian and Kim gluing the mosaic pattern of Crossville tile to the corset with only seconds to spare.

The finished skirt awaits its model.

That's Amber making a few last minute tweaks to the dress. We didn't have time for a test fit so it was all or nothing when Lauren came out of hair and makeup to try it on for the first time.

The Team from left to right Kim, Tom, Yingxi, Lauren, Amber, Brian and Jeff.

A little shimmy in front of the judges before throwing them bouquet of flowers made from the origami pieces from the skirt.

The corset top was hand sewn and laced up with ribbon

Lauren ROCKING IT on the runway!!!

Other submissions below

-Brian L.

Greg the Designer...!?

2011-08-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

Although he is the CEO of our company, dealing more with numbers and spreadsheets than sketch paper and chip board, Greg was an award winning designer at one point. That point in time just happened to be in circa 1975ish when he was in high school. These are some old pics of a residential competition he was involved in. He won all 3 years he participated (he is very proud of this... as he should be). Some one get this man a pen and turn him loose!!

-Brian L.

Who Ate My Lunch?

2011-08-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

Let me set the scene... It's around 12:15 and Jodie walks back to grab her leftovers for lunch. Since I sit within earshot of our break room I heard her stunned laughter as she says "somebody ate my lunch". She couldn't believe it. About the same time an email goes out to the entire office from one of our newest employees.

"Hello all, I just ate someone’s lunch box due to the same food in the lunch box. I am sorry about that. Please let me know if your lunch box has been eaten by me. I would like to buy you lunch at your convenient time. Thanks"

I couldn't stop laughing and when Jodie read that she couldn't either. Apparently they cooked the same thing the night before. This is a true story... you can't make that up!

As you may imagine, responses to the "free lunch" were quick to come in from everyone wanting a free lunch.
"Hey, that was my lunch. I’ll take Sushi tomorrow for lunch thank you." - Dan
"Jacky… No problem.. that was my lunch. Replacement lunch tomorrow at Ruth Chris’s works for me." - Greg
"Wait a minute, I think that was my lunch!!!!" - James

Think BIG Sacramento

2011-07-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

This is TONIGHT!... so if you plan on attending check the flyer for details. For or Against or Indifferent... if you have an opinion now is the time to voice it.

Wine Bottle Art

2011-07-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Some WP peeps got together (James, Greg, Amber along with a few spouses and friends) for happy hour a while back and with pens in hand decided to create some impromptu art. You might be wondering why there is a unicorn on the bottle to the right. Well, not many people know this but James has believed in unicorns since he was young lad. He has unicorn figurines, unicorn posters, and the complete 6 piece collectors edition unicorn plate set. He has attended the annual unicorn sighting expedition for the past 5 years in northern Oregon (he call these "Fishing trips"). He also co-wrote the book "Unicorns Are To Real, My Mom Said So". Or maybe it was just the wine talking when he was telling us about all this...

Just for fun...

2011-07-25T10:02:00.000-07:00

Practical jokes and off center humor are the national past time of Greg so it's fitting that he supplied this funny video for all.

Eric Goes To China

2011-07-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

Eric (left), Terry (right)

Skiing on the 4th of July?!?

2011-07-25T09:52:00.000-07:00

Sugar Bowl opened for the morning on the 4th and my son Matt and I went and skied Mt Disney on a beautiful sunny morning. Got the tee shirt!

-Jim W.

Architect Barbie's Dream House

2011-07-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

Check out the finalists... click HERE

Voting closes on August 2nd.

-Naaz

New Slogans for Architecture

2011-07-25T08:38:00.000-07:00

Architecture, we put the texture in the Art

Architecture, for when engineering is just not enough

Architects shape the space that we use to do the things that we do when we go to that place

Architecture, harder to spell than you’d think

Modern Architecture, stating the obvious since 1929

Brutalism, because this will only hurt for a minute

Corbu tested, Mies van der Rohe approved

Architecture, If it’s good enough for the French….

Architecture, taking the forms to the streets, well…, it might be set-back a little, just to improve the view

Modern Architecture, that concrete slab next to the courthouse

The few, the proud, the Architects

Architects, removing all the things that remind you of home except for the disapproval of your loved ones

Architecture, recession proof since Sept. 2014

Architecture, giving you less for more

Architects taking your idea and running with it until you tell us to stop

Architecture, you know, buildings and things

Architecture, bed, bath, and beyond

Architecture, frozen music defrosted into awesomeness

Architecture, if it ain’t Wright, it ain’t wrong, am I right?

-Trish

Good Thing We Got the Rental Insurance...

2011-06-29T10:45:00.000-07:00

The last thing I remembered was Brett, Dan and Paul belting out Journey's greatest hits... The pain in my ears and mind splitting headache must have been too much to handle thus causing me to pass out. No one was injured but I have lost all hearing in my right ear.

-Brian L.

post script... No, we did not wreck the rental. The photo is real, the story is not. Well, except for the singing part... that did actually happen.

Relay for Life - IIDA

2011-06-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I traveled out to West Sacramento to participate in the Relay for Life in support of the American Cancer Society. The local chapter of the IIDA had a booth and tents set up and were definitely in it for the long haul. Each booth had various ways of raising money... some had water guns for sale, a raffle for cruiser bike, but the biggest hit was the dunk tank. The IIDA had a Mary Kay rep come out and give makeovers for a few hours. Although they really wanted me to, I opted out of the makeover and spent my time logging miles on the track. A worthwhile event for anyone who's life has been touched by cancer

- Brian L

WP Employee Art Gallery

2011-06-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

Two original pencil drawings by Jack Paddon circa 1975

Half Day Fridays

2011-06-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

Before summer was officially here and the weather was still nice... a small group of us headed to a local watering hole for a few Friday afternoon drinks and some food. Jack and I rode our bikes in an attempt to burn the calories that we would no doubt be taking in. I was wiped out trying to keep up with Jack who, of course, was barely breaking a sweat. All in all... a pretty nice way to spend a Friday afternoon.

-Brian L.

Venus de Maui

2011-06-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

The Blue Line Gallery in Downtown Roseville held its annual summer fundraising event known as the “Beach Bash Party” this June. WP made a donation and in return we received a surfboard to design for an auction that would take place at this event. Seeing as we are a creative bunch, we decided to turn the surfboard in the a Hawaiian decoupage hula girl. Brett, Paul and myself banded together to create what is now known as the Venus de Maui.

- Brian

Midwest Storms

2011-06-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks MTA!!!

2011-06-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

WOW!!!
A great BIG heartfelt “Thank you” from all of us here at Williams + Paddon to everyone at MTA! It was an especially difficult fundraising year for us and your generosity and effort have officially helped us meet our goal of $5000!!

We thank you and the children of Sierra Forever Families thank you too.

A Million Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks (again) MTA!!!

2011-06-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

Williams + Paddon employees treated Miles Treaster & Associates to some wine and yummy cheeses to thank them for their incredibly generous donation to our Sierra Forever Families fundraising efforts. It was a great excuse to get together and catch up with some cool people.

Thanks again MTA!

- Amber

TT Terry

2011-06-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

Body Double... ?

TT (Time Trial) Terry / Audi A15

- Jack

Side note: Terry might be the speed demon of the riders at WP but Jack is the endurance man. Word on the street is he just completed a double century (200 miles) in 15 hours of continuous pedaling.

What Can You Do With Paper?

2011-06-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

I saw this in the Interior Design Magazine... thought it was pretty cool.

“Pratt Institute president Thomas F. Schutte initiated the competition and exhibition, for which undergrads and graduates studying interior, industrial, and fashion design or the fine arts were asked to use sheets of plain white paper, in any size, to create a garment or a sculpture. Fasteners were allowed, but the construction method had to be evident. As explained by the dean of the school of art and design, Concetta Stewart, the idea was to help students "understand the power of parameters as a catalyst for innovation."

-Interior Design Magazine, April 2011 issue

- Amber

Tike Races - 2011

2011-06-27T09:17:00.001-07:00

Another successful Trike Race is in the books. Although there is never a clear victor as everyone cheats by ignoring the cones, wrecking other riders, cutting corners, etc... It's always fun to be kids for few minutes. Thanks to WP for the food and our neighbors Voit Real Estate Services and Valley Commerical Contractors for the cold beverages and popsicles.

Jason showing off the new adult sized trike... the hot rod of the day

Brian thinking..." why am I even going to try this..."

Joey and Cigi look like they're playing bumper cars more than racing trikes.

And they're off... Eric and Mark go head to head.

I have no idea how, but Jim made it one lap pedaling that little tricycle. Well done sir.

- Brian L.

Random Acts of Fun

2011-06-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

WP has started a fun new tradition of encouraging random acts of fun. Once a month an employee is selected at random and given a small stipend of dollar bills to spend however they choose on doing something fun for the employees. My name was the first to be pulled from the hat and being first came with great expectations. So, I decided to BBQ... because who doesn't like BBQ? And to keep the interest of everyone I printed out a bunch of sometimes funny (sometimes not) jokes. Everyone was good sports and read whatever they picked up, no matter how much it made them blush. Round one... Success.

Brian W. was the next contestant and he bought some games for the lobby. Because sometimes you just need something mindless to do to keep your brain from meltdown. The puzzle is almost complete. Round two... Success.

The latest addition was contributed by Sarah. You might think that she is an expert dancer or has a great natural rhythm. This couldn't be further from the truth. She admittedly bought this game to watch everyone in the office make fools of themselves trying to dance. If you know Sarah then you know that what I just said is the absolute truth! She has an odd yet endearing sense of humor that we all love. And because this is her gift, lets all gather around and watch her take the first dance.....

Brian L.

Congrats to Brian And Bill!!!

2011-06-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

Good Words

2011-06-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

"May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us."

- Cigi

April Fools

2011-04-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

"How funny would it be to post Terry's precious time trial bike on craigslist?" That was the question traveling around the office Friday morning... and the unanimous response was "HILARIOUS!!!" So it was done, Tom posted it on craigslist and within minutes Terry was getting calls. At first he was baffled, then pissed!!! But he eventually was able to laugh it off and said "I got PUNK'd bad!" Well done to all involved.

WP Employee Art Gallery

2011-03-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Brett -untitled

Brian - Napa 29

We have a space in our break room that has been blank since the office was built. So, we turned it into a little art gallery. Here’s the idea. I thought it would be interesting to showcase our employee’s lesser known artistic talents. Everyone at WP is creative in one way or another. Painting, sketches, scrap booking, knitting, quilting, writing, photography… and so on and so forth. To kick things off, Brett (left) and I (right) put up two of our pieces in the break room. This little gallery is intended to be changed on a regular basis…. so stay tuned for the next display.

-Brian L.

Drop in from Ascent Builders

2011-03-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

The nice people of Ascent Builders stopped by last week to talk shop and anything else that happened to come up. They seemed to have inside information on how to get the most WP'ers to attend by bringing sushi and beer. Needless to say the workstations were empty and the conference room packed! Some of us were meeting for the first time, others just catching up but everyone had a great time. Thanks Ascent!!!

They also blogged about us... read it HERE

-Brian L.

The One and Only - Lady Gaga

2011-03-28T13:53:00.001-07:00

Wednesday night I was in an arena full of “little monsters”, mesmerized by the one and only Lady Gaga. And what a show, the girl can belt….and dance….and entertain: a real triple threat. How fun to catch a talent at the height of their career, her song “Born this Way” has been on the top of the charts for 6 weeks and she did a slow, Elton John piano style version of it that rocked the house! On a personal note, it was the first time for me in General Admission. Ok, I had no idea that General Admission meant “no seats” till I got there, and my dear friend Lurline was livid: two short women standing in the mosh pit! I have been to many concerts but this time I discovered that standing on the floor near the stage becomes a communal experience and you are one with the music and your fellow concert-goers in a way that you don’t experience in the seats! Loved it, would buy General Admission again. If you’ve never heard Gaga’s music, you should. If you are freaked out by her image, don’t be. Just close your eyes and listen.

-Naaz

IIDA Awards

2011-03-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

Chapter President Robi Kaseman (Williams + Paddon) spoke about the value of IIDA membership and actions taken during her 2010 – 2011 term: a new Partner program to help underwrite programs, a new Chapter identity program and a new website. As is chapter tradition, the membership gets officially introduced to the President- Elect during Honor Awards, so Ms. Kaseman introduced Laura Grigsby (Laura Grigsby Art Consulting), who took the stage to thank the volunteers who made the evening possible and Ms. Kaseman for her year of service, and to tell people about the benefit of IIDA membership and how interior design helps her do what she does better. President Kaseman mentioned that one of the strengths of the IIDA Northern California Chapter is the incredible team of dedicated members who volunteer their time and talent, and in recognition of the individuals who go far beyond in what they do to move the chapter forward, a Chapter Honor Award is bestowed biennially. She presented this year’s honoree: Tamara Roth, associate at STUDIOS Architecture, San Francisco. Ms. Roth joined IIDA in 2003 and since 2005 has been involved with the Student Affairs Committee and the Honor Awards Committee. She joined the Board in 2008 as Co-VP of Student Affairs. As the Chapter Honoree, Ms. will oversee the Student Design Competition for the next two years and will create the student design problem. These awards will be bestowed in Ms. Roth’s name. (picture and article published online at officeinsight.com)

Liz

2011-03-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

I was watching a rerun of Sex & the City the other night and in that episode the elegant Charlotte York had just adopted a beautiful puppy and named her “Elizabeth Taylor”. I laughed out loud, it seemed funny and appropriate at the same time because both Charlotte and the puppy are Taylor-esque! The real Elizabeth Taylor passed away this week and it took me back to when I was a little girl. Elizabeth Taylor was an icon: beautiful, elegant, larger than life. I remember watching her in the epic “Cleopatra” on the wide screen at a movie theater, she was girl power! I’m not sure she was a great actress (she chewed more scenery than William Shatner, see “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolfe” sometime! ). But she was one of the brightest stars in Hollywood’s star-making machine. Even if her 8 marriages were to be ignored the rest of her life seemed over the top in an unapologetic way. But in her later years she kept a lower profile and spent time fundraising for her Elizabeth Taylor Foundation. She will forever be memorialized in film, and every time I see her on the screen I will remember that moment in time when she was Cleopatra. -Naaz

Fifteen Trends That Will Reshape The Office

2011-03-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

(ucsf capital + facilities management, lounge: STUDIOS, san francisco)

1. The decline of the cubicle. Cubicle sales peaked in 2000 when they accounted for nearly 37 percent of all office furniture sales. This has fallen to 26 percent. Corporations now prefer more open spaces that foster collaboration.

2. More gathering spaces. Informal meetings, workers plop down with laptop or iPod.

3. Work lounges - but work gets done here.

4. The demise of foosball - Play games at home on your own time.

5. Less space, work flexibility is the status symbol, not the big office.

6. Wormhole - A workstation dedicated to online video-conferencing, with a connection to other key offices around the world.

7. Electronic Whiteboard - Communicates with the laptop by Bluetooth - Trend towards collaborative tools that benefit everyone in the room, not just a few.

8. Standing-room meeting table.

9. Work benches - Long tables with roving plugs for laptops, no legs or obstructions underneath, flexible and able to accommodate more or fewer workers.

10. Walkstation -- Walk on a treadmill while answering email on a computer set up ergonomically so you can reach it without tripping - At some companies workers rotate for 15 or 30 minute sessions and these are becoming popular for home.

11. The Shared Office - Like office hoteling but more fixed time schedules for telecommuters or road warriors.

12. The Switch Office - Doubles as a small meeting or conference room.

13. More Glass - Openness and approachability.

14. The Dinner Booth - Use hallways or other open areas with booths like you see in restaurants - Colleagues can grab a cup of coffee, sit down for an informal meeting.

15. The Empty Office - The ultimate status symbol, you have an office but you don't have to go there. These trends were published almost 1 year ago (march 2010). Many of these are right on target with what we see and here from our clients and what we want in our own office.

Movie Night at the Crocker

2011-03-21T10:12:00.001-07:00

For anyone interested in Mid Century Modern architecture this is a must see. Julius Shulman photographed some of the best architecture of his time. His work brought modern design to the masses via countless media publications. An amazing artist of his trade, he captured the essence of these architectural icons through his lens.

This is part of The Crockers "Thursdays 'til 9" series. It's a great opportunity to check out the exhibits (price of the ticket includes admission to the museum) and grab a bite to eat at the cafe before going to the event. They have a wide variety of events from lectures to movies to concerts. Last Thursday I saw a local musician (Kate Gaffney) in concert there. The acoustics were great... so great that they dropped the mics and amplifiers and just played acoustic.

You can check out the full list of Thursday night events HERE

-Brian L.

Fogscapes - Art Reception

2011-03-21T10:09:00.000-07:00

2237 GALLERY

Williams + Paddon Architects + Planners, Inc.
Lafler Moore Connerty & Webb, LLP
2237 Douglas Boulevard
Roseville, California 95661

Presents

Fogscapes
Photographs by Donald Satterlee

Donald Satterlee works as a commercial photographer in Sacramento and has produced many of the images seen in ads, brochures, annual reports and billboards around Northern California. This exhibit of his personal work features many of the black & white images from the series entitled "Fogscapes."

These images of familiar Sacramento buildings, bridges, tree lined roads, paths and ponds have been described as "dreamy and atmospheric" since they have all been photographed while enshrouded in the early morning fog that often envelops Sacramento on December mornings.

Other work includes gritty images of railroad trestles and train engines, as well as scenes of the National Cathedral in Washington DC and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Join us for an artist's reception
Thursday, April 7, 2011
5:30 - 8:00 pm

Artist Lecture

2011-03-21T10:04:00.001-07:00

Semi-local artist John Pugh (Truckee) Will be giving a lecture at the North Natomas Library this Wednesday. You can see more of his work HERE

John Pugh is the artist that did a mural on the wall of the existing Taylor Hall at CSU Chico Campus (image below). Due to its artistic importance, the University is exploring several methods of preservation / relocation ($$) since the building will be demolished to make way for the new Taylor Hall. He is a CSUC alumni.

St. Patrick's Day - Morning

2011-03-21T09:38:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Naaz, Paul, Greg and Jim for waking up extra early and cooking the office a 'green' breakfast. The menu included green eggs and spinach, kiwi, grapes, green Irish soda bread, and green pancakes. Everything was delish... Thanks!!!

Paul manning the griddle... he was most proud of the fresh green whipped cream

No, nothing was spoiled or rotten... just green

Robi and Brian W. in a pancake eating contest. Brian 15, Robi 3.

What a way to start the day.

St. Patrick's Day - Afternoon

2011-03-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

One for everyone

Everyone watching Brett do an Irish jig.

Someone really likes green beer!

Mark's Green Mustache

W+P Garage Sale

2011-03-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

Request for donations!!!
We’re back folks and still coming up with new and resourceful ways to raise money for our charity Sierra Forever Families! What is it this time? Pony rides? Javelin throwing contest? Kissing booth? Hell no, we’ll spare ourselves the indignity. Really it’s simple and to the point… another “Garage Sale”!!! This time, we are simplifying it by only requesting items that are media based. If you have any of the below items just sitting around and taking up precious space we would love to take it off your hands and transform it into cash… all proceeds will be put toward placing foster children with Forever Families!

If you would like to donate please contact Kim Settle settle@williamspluspaddon.com or Amber Seevers seevers@williamspluspaddon.com and we’ll arrange a pick-up/drop-off of items.

Did You Know...

2011-03-14T15:57:00.000-07:00

Kim Settle rode out the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake in San Francisco in a wood 2-story building that had survived the 1906 earthquake. The building remained standing, if somewhat crookedly, but completely separated from its foundation & had to be torn down. We were cowering under my desk & I can still remember the sound of the nails popping out of the timbers underneath me after the shaking had stopped.

Kim Navarro has driven across the United States in a car... TWICE. She's been to 23 states and 9 Canadian Provinces.

Trip to the Library - Cade Winery

2011-03-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to Cade Winery in Napa. Paul and I were directed to this winery after getting caught sneaking around another architecturally inspired winery (Quintessa). Apparently "by appointment only" means don't walk around without supervision. Oh well, back to Cade... after a few wrong turns we finally found this little gem tucked away from the main traffic. As we drove through the vineyards below, we had to pick our jaws off the floor as we glimpsed views of the building nestled into the hillside. This building was meant to be on this site. Everything was how it should be. The sequence of little events to arrive at the tasting room was purposeful and planned. Taking ones view away, giving it back in pieces before revealing the AMAZING view.

The Entry Sequence - As you progress up the winding drive you turn your back to the view. At this point you don't even know there is a view as your eyes are fixated on the crush facility which is opposite the view. As you park this large entry wall shields what awaits.
The Entry - The approach to the entry gives the slightest glimpse of the view, but as you pass though the opening a wall obstructs this view.

The Courtyard Entry - Walking through the opening the designer leads you to the right and into the courtyard. He used the placement of the door to intuitively lead one to the right instead of to the left where the private offices are located. Again, the large wall obstructs part of the view.

The Courtyard - The wall to the left and the tasting room to the right frame this endless view of Sonoma Valley. Breathtaking.

This place is of course by appointment only but the ladies who greeted us were really nice and talked extensively about the building and philosophies of the winery. It is a LEED Gold project and bio dynamically farmed (one step above organic). This is Architecture with a big A.

-Brian

Post Script - Big shout out to Paul for sweet talking the rental people into an upgrade to a convertible mustang for our travel. Well done sir.

Inspiration

2011-03-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

While trying to locate some of these wineries we got lost... more than a few times. But, this was OK because getting lost in Napa is never a bad thing. We came across this beautiful and well crafted stone wall that is exactly what we envisioned for one of our projects. Also, the green moss that grows on the old oaks of the fog filled valleys might inspire the color of the window mullions. Inspiration is all around and in the everyday if your eyes are open to it. On this day, I was glad Paul was horrible with directions.

The Art of Dessert

2011-03-14T11:59:00.000-07:00

The reason for the trip to Sonoma was to attend The Art of Dessert event at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts. This years benefactor of the year was the Lytton Rancheria and tribal chairwoman Margie Mejia. The Lytton tribe has become heavily involved in donating and raising funds to support the center and the children of the greater Sonoma region.

The Art of Dessert is the Arts Center’s annual, and only, major fundraising gala. Three hundred of Sonoma County’s leading business owners, arts lovers, and philanthropists gather to honor the Center’s Arts Benefactor of the Year.

Proceeds raised benefit the Center’s arts and education programs, which include free and discounted tickets for low-income and at-risk children, subsidies for student transportation to performances, musical instruments loaned free of charge to children who cannot afford to rent or buy them, in-classroom student workshops with artists, and professional development courses for teachers.

Since its inception in 2003, The Art of Dessert has generated more than $650,000 and helped the Center to provide the enrichment of the arts to more than 200,000 children. This years goal was to raise $165,000. I'm not sure if they reached that goal but with the way people were bidding I'm thinking they probably exceeded that number!

-Brian

Who Doesn't Like a Good Practical Joke?

2011-03-14T11:54:00.000-07:00

-Eric

Can You Tell the Real Jack?

2011-03-14T11:35:00.001-07:00

Is this Jack?

Or is this?

On The Boards - Chico State Parking Garage

2011-03-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back Bill and Mark organized a design charrette on the Chico State Parking Garage. The team presented a well thought out solution to the problem... they bribed us with free pizza for our innovative ideas on how to make this design sing. It was a huge success, ideas were exchanged and the final product is something to be proud of.

Great job everyone!

Amber and Regina hard at work while Brian eats pizza

Mark explaining connections details during a design charrette, we love his analytical brain.

Dueling Pencils at 3 paces from Terry and Brian

Everyone

“And in the mornin’, I’m makin’ waffles” [said like Donkey from Shrek]

2011-02-28T10:35:00.001-08:00

Kim Navarro, Jeff Navarro, Brian Lefholz and myself wanted to do a little something special for our co-workers for one of our Town Hall breakfasts… After a bit of brainstorming we decided that filling up the office with the delectable smell of freshly made Belgian waffles and bacon would be a perfect way to start the work week! Kim wo-manned the waffle maker, Jeff watched Kim wo-man the waffle maker, Brian fried up the bacon and maple sausage, and I took charge of getting the toppings and drinks ready. After 45 solid minutes of torturing the office with the tantalizing smell we finally invited everyone in to partake in the tasty goodness… and of course welcomed them with a little tasty tune: CLICK HERE

-Amber

Idiots...

2011-02-28T10:22:00.000-08:00

- Aerie

Hello Officer

2011-02-28T09:27:00.000-08:00

In case anyone hasn't noticed... we have a sneaky little bike cop running radar from our driveway on Douglas Blvd. The funny part of this particular day was that the cop was having mechanical problems with his bike so even if he did catch a speeder he couldn't do anything about it... haha, sweet justice!

Citrus Height Crab Feed

2011-02-24T16:49:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday Trish and I attended the Citrus Heights Crab Feed. Put on by the Rotary, it was a jammed house in the Citrus Heights Community Center which W+P designed and was completed last year. Noteworthy moments from the evening... It was a crab feed and Trish doesn't eat crab, we both got our pinkie nails painted purple to raise money for kids with polio (and I couldn't say no so I did as well), and I DID NOT win the wine fridge stocked with 52 bottle of wine.

Thanks to Larry Oliver of Glumac for the invite!

Brian L.

Did You Know...

2011-02-23T13:36:00.000-08:00

Regina has tried almost every hairstyle and color in the known world. Including a square perm and a 13" hair "tail" tucked behind her left ear when she was a kid... oddly enough these were socially acceptable in the 80's do to the popularity of funky hairstyles from bands such as The Cure.

Bill almost lost his ring finger as a teenager jumping over a chain link fence. The short of it is he jammed his hand on top of the fence and when he jumped over his hand stayed put. Ouch! I'll spare you the gory details but he could see daylight through his hand. The funniest part of the story is that they ran to the nearest house for help and proceeded to bang on the door but no one was home. They were in such a panic they failed to notice that the white door was now red!... Imagine the looks on that families face when they pulled up to their house with a front door covered in bloody hand prints. Bill survived with his ring finger in tact...

To quote James "I haven't met a dead animal yet I don't like medium rare"

Dan was stabbed in the hand by his friend at boyscout camp, and has the scar to prove it. The rest of the story is this... he was whittling (the art of shaping a piece of wood into something using a knife) when he got upset that his friends whittling shavings were encroaching on his space. They proceeded to whittle wood chips at each other until his friend got a little to excited and accidentally stabbed Dan in the hand. Yes he cried... one, because it hurt and two, because that was the end of a promising career as a professional whittler.

Septic Tank Humor

2011-02-23T13:19:00.000-08:00

I'm glad these people have a sense of humor about their "sh*ty" job. I know, that was corny but appropriate.

Architect Barbie

2011-02-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

According to Mattel, the Barbie Architect is "ready to tackle the daily responsibilities of a real architect in or out of the office... wearing an architecturally inspired dress showcasing a city skyline, Barbie doll’s outfit is symmetrically stylish with bold colors and clean lines. In designing this doll, Barbie partnered with members of the American Institute of Architects to keep Barbie I Can Be… Architect doll authentic to the career."

If Mattel was really in touch with the world of an architect they would have provided her with a few more useful items. Perhaps trading the drawing tube for a laptop so she could answer the 400 emails she'd get every day. Or a blue tooth headset so she can multitask and talk on the phone while answering all those emails. No need for the hard hat either... with the endless submittals, changes to the documents, revisions on top of revisions during construction she would never have time to visit the construction site anyway. In that case, the lovely dress and high heels are perfectly suitable for someone confined to a 6x8 cubicle. The one pair of glasses should be 3. One daily use, one to see your computer screen and another to read the tiny print on the half sized drawings. That's a little more real but not nearly as fun. At least Ken now has a "Dream House" to be proud of...

Top 10 Country Songs

2011-02-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

For those of you who hate country music... you'll love this. Because doesn't every country song have a dog or a truck or a gun rack, and/or someone leavin' or cheatin'? No these aren't actual country songs but they could be...

10. She Got The Gold Mine, I Got The Shaft (ok, this is an actual country song)
9. I Ain't Never Gone To Bed With an Ugly Woman But I Woke Up With A Few
8. If The Phone Don't Ring, You'll Know It's Me
7. I've Missed You, But My Aim's Improvin'
6. Wouldn't Take Her To A Dogfight 'Cause I'm Scared She'd Win
5. I'm So Miserable Without You It's Like You're Still Here
4. My Wife Ran Off With My Best Friend And I Miss Him
3. She Took My Ring and Gave Me the Finger
2. She's Lookin' Better with Every Beer
1. It's Hard To Kiss The Lips At Night That Chewed My *ss All Day

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T11:05:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's a hallmark holiday. And yes, it's predictable to buy your love something red, or sweet, or heart shaped. But please don't fall victim to the cheesetastic and super corny jewelry store commercials on TV and default to buying your lady a heart shaped pendant for the 5th year in a row (no offense if you get a heart shaped pendant this year). Just saying a little thoughtfulness and out of the box thinking goes just as far...and is a heck of a lot cheaper!

Write her name in concrete? Well, maybe not but you can take a picture and send it via text or email.

Shoot her with an arrow.

Grab an old box or tin, fill it with something sweet and wrap it in red.

Send a unique Card... like these handmade letterpress cards.

Words of Wisdom

2011-02-14T10:34:00.000-08:00

-Mark Twain

Twin Towers - SF

2011-02-14T10:22:00.001-08:00

If you have never been to Twin Towers in SF it is a must... especially on a crystal clear day. One hill provides sweeping views of downtown from the Golden Gate to the Ferry Building. The other, an endless view of the Pacific Ocean. Park along the road and walk to both and let the mind compile a 360 degree panaramic view of the City.

Brian L.

Do-It-Yourself Lighting Solution

2011-02-14T10:16:00.000-08:00

Interesting use for Grandma's old lamp shades? I enjoy seeing low buck highly creative solutions to design problems... so I snapped this pic at a little hole in the wall food joint in SF.

-Brian L.

Celebrate!...

2011-02-14T10:08:00.000-08:00

Last week Kim Navarro turned 29 for the 2nd time. So we celebrated the only way we know how... with happy hour! After all...who needs a birthday cake when you have tequila!?!

Fun, Simple Solutions

2011-02-14T09:53:00.000-08:00

The client we were working with on this project wanted to put up a casework half wall to divide the public and private space in this office building. We decided to avoid a mundane solution of a 2.5’ high laminate panel running the length of 15’ so, bearing in mind that there was a degree of security we had to achieve, we chose to divide it with these 3-Form panels suspended from a “L” shaped soffit. This turned the division into an unexpected art piece as opposed to something “expected”.

What have you done lately to get out of the design box?

- Amber

Did You Know?

2011-02-14T09:36:00.000-08:00

... Jessica worked in a motorcycle shop... and she's seen lots and lots of tattoos.

... Jeff was a mischievous toddler who enjoyed among other things, climbing on kitchen cabinets. That was, until he climbed too high and fell into a pot of boiling water on the stove thus burning 75% of his right leg. He does not climb on kitchen cabinets anymore.

(no picture necessary)

... Brian L.'s middle name is Clayton. This name appears nowhere in his genealogy and was not passed down through the ages. Rather, he was named after the main character from his dad's favorite TV show as a child... The Lone Ranger (Clayton Moore).

... James was the 2 time arm wrestling (or wrist wrestling as he calls it) champion of UPS.

... Cigi knocked her 3 front teeth out when she slipped on wet river rocks. She was 16 but refuses to say how it actually happened nor did she tell her parents how it happened... so you know it must be good! (numbers 8,9, and 10 per the diagram to be exact)

Public Art... Large and Small

2011-02-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

Life Explained by Scientific Graphs

2011-02-07T13:37:00.000-08:00

Don't throw those pencils away!

2011-02-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

There is No Limit to Human Creativity

2011-02-07T13:19:00.001-08:00

Greg + Hairnet = Priceless

2010-11-22T10:12:00.000-08:00

-Brian L.

Hi. I'm Jeff.

2010-11-22T10:07:00.001-08:00

The office is now a little closer together so we have decided to get rid of all intercom paging and go back to passing messages grade school style by playing "telephone". One to two people is fine... but when the message has to go across the office it can get a little interesting...

-Brian L.

Green Alley

2010-11-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

Don't know where this is or what the intent was but it's a pretty cool idea. A place for people to relax on a small patch of green grass in the middle of a concrete jungle. Dogs love it too.

-Brian

Problems with Deforestation

2010-11-22T10:03:00.001-08:00

-Brian L.

Looks Like Someone has a Case of the Mondays!

2010-11-22T10:02:00.000-08:00

I Think the Cartoon Pretty Much Says it All...

2010-11-22T09:59:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Carving Contest

2010-11-22T09:46:00.000-08:00

Sara, Brian, and Amber locked in battle
Regina meticulously carving

Aerie even more meticulously carving

Kim's creation

Sara carved a "W+P"...in an attempt to suck up to the judges in hopes of victory. She lost.

The Judges. The $20 in the winning pumpkin may have swayed the judging just a bit.

We had a great turn out this year... as compared to the two participants in years past. One thing that didn't change was the winner. Yes, Amber won AGAIN. Thanks to Kim, Aerie, Sara, Amber, and Regina for participating!

-Brian L.

Fast Brick Road

2010-11-22T09:41:00.001-08:00

How many times have you seen something and said... "wow, why didn't I think of that?" Leave it to the Germans to engineer a brick paver road laying machine. Those are real brick pavers put down with precision in record time. Genius!

-Brian

Skeet Shooting for Real Men

2010-11-22T09:39:00.000-08:00

Snookie or Robi?... you decide

2010-11-22T09:12:00.000-08:00

The Annual IIDA-Northern California Chapter Roll and Bowl event was held at Sea Bowl in Pacifica this year. Sea Bowl is a cool retro bowling alley that has been there forever. All the proceeds from the event benefited our chapter. So I was doing it “for the cause”. This years theme was: “Jersey Shore at Pacifica….celebrating bad taste”. So I didn’t get my spray tan but I did get my poof. For those who don't know who Snookie is...see the bottom picture.

- Robi