How to Elevate Your Summer Living Experience

As we enter the month of June, the promise of long, sunny days and balmy evenings finally come around. It’s the perfect time to embrace the great outdoors and make the most of your residential space. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to transform your outdoor areas into stunning, functional, and inviting spaces that enhance your summer living experience. Get ready to discover inspiring ideas and expert tips that will elevate your outdoor lifestyle this June!

Limited outdoor space is something we here in the PNW are used to – but it shouldn’t limit your ability to create a stunning and functional oasis.  First, incorporating multi-functional furniture pieces, such as benches with hidden storage or tables that can double as planters, allows for both seating and efficient use of space. Utilizing vertical space through hanging gardens, trellises, or wall-mounted shelves provides ample room for plants and decor, while keeping the ground area free. Creating distinct zones or areas within the space, such as a dining area, cozy lounge corner, or a mini herb garden, helps define the space and make it feel more purposeful. Maximizing natural light by choosing transparent or open structures like glass railings or pergolas can create an open and airy ambiance. Finally, choosing the right lighting, such as string lights or wall-mounted fixtures, can enhance the atmosphere and extend the usability of the outdoor space into the evening hours. By implementing these creative approaches, homeowners can transform their small outdoor living spaces into inviting and functional retreats.

As nature blossoms in full glory during June, it’s the perfect time to reconnect with the natural world.  Creating a tranquil outdoor retreat is possible for both renters and homeowners, regardless of the property type. Start by incorporating elements of nature, such as potted plants, hanging gardens, or vertical green walls, to infuse the space with a sense of serenity. Introduce comfortable seating options like hammocks, lounge chairs, or cozy cushions to encourage relaxation and contemplation. Privacy can be achieved by utilizing bamboo screens, trellises adorned with climbing plants, or decorative panels. Incorporate soothing water features like small fountains or bubbling pots to add a calming auditory experience. Strategic lighting, such as soft string lights or gentle lanterns, can create an enchanting ambiance during evening hours. Finally, emphasize natural textures and materials like wood, stone, and natural fibers to establish a connection with the outdoors. By employing these techniques, both renters and homeowners can design a tranquil outdoor retreat that serves as a sanctuary from the busyness of everyday life.

June is all about celebrating with friends and family in the great outdoors. Designing an outdoor entertainment area that seamlessly blends comfort, style, and functionality is key to creating a space where unforgettable gatherings can take place. Start by selecting comfortable and durable furniture that provides ample seating and lounging options for guests. Consider weather-resistant materials and plush cushions that offer both comfort and style. Incorporate versatile features such as modular seating or ottomans that can be rearranged to accommodate different group sizes and activities. Enhance the ambiance with stylish lighting fixtures, such as string lights, lanterns, or built-in LED options, to create an inviting atmosphere after sundown. Integrate functional elements like a well-equipped outdoor kitchen or a bar area, complete with storage and prep space, for easy entertaining. Additionally, consider incorporating shade structures, such as pergolas or retractable awnings, to provide relief from the sun and ensure comfort during warmer days. By carefully selecting elements that prioritize comfort, infusing the space with stylish accents, and incorporating functional features, you can design an outdoor entertainment area that seamlessly blends comfort, style, and functionality for memorable gatherings with family and friends.

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, now is the perfect time to elevate your outdoor living experience. Whether you have a small backyard or an expansive property, there are many ways to transform your outdoor spaces into functional and breathtaking areas that perfectly suit your lifestyle. Embrace the beauty of June and embark on a journey of design that will make this summer one to remember!

Tyler King

Please help us warmly welcome, Tyler King to the Milbrandt Team!  Tyler comes to Milbrandt as a born and raised Seattle native, and proud WSU alum.

What drew him to study and peruse a career in architecture, was his mom, who was an interior designer.  “I was always infatuated by the work she would do.  This led me to the exploration for the design process of buildings. The artistic sensibility to put together a place that is organized, conveys emotion and responds to the surrounding environment was a challenge I was very excited to learn and pursue in my career. I loved finding a place to bring my creativity to a technical level.” 

When Tyler is not working on beautiful buildings, Tyler has a passion for cooking.  He loves to explore new recipes and crafting dishes that he tries to come up with on his own. He is even known as the chef for his household!

Ray Gonzales

Introducing, Ray Gonzales, as another new member to our team!  Ray is originally from Houston Texas and received his undergrad from Texas A&M University.  From there he came up to the beautiful PNW to attend the University of Washington to earn his master’s degree!

What drew Ray to study architecture was in fact, LEGOs!  “As a kid, I would consistently play with LEGO and Hot Wheels and build my own cityscapes out of them. I would sketch skylines and bridges in some of my free time. But it wasn’t until I got to my junior year of high school where I took an architecture and engineering elective my junior year that I decided to choose architecture as my major in college. I ended up enjoying architecture so much that I stuck with it.”

Some quick fun facts about Ray:  he is an eagle scout, he loves to watch and play golf, and is an avid sports fan, frequently rooting for all Houston teams, the Tottenham Hotspurs, Seattle Kraken and Mariners – except when they’re competing against his beloved Astros.

Leah Bezold

Finally, we welcome Leah Bezold to the Milbrandt family!  Leah will be joining the Milbrandt firm as a design Technician III.  Hailing from Eatonville, Washington, Leah attended the University of Washington to earn her Architecture degree.  We are thrilled to have Leah’s expertise and enthusiasm onboard!

What drew Leah to study architecture?  She says that it has been her goal since learning it was an occupation in the first place! “I always caught myself observing and questioning buildings. Before that I loved building elaborate Barbie houses and building houses in Sims.”

In her free time, and when the PNW weather cooperates, Leah enjoys the outdoors, specifically biking and kayaking around the sound with her husband.  She has even biked four of the San Juan Islands!

Brooke Corran

Brooke Corran is a proud new addition to our team! Originally from Hillingdon, England, Brooke grew up in the picturesque town of Snoqualmie, Washington. She earned her degree in Business Administration from the esteemed University of Washington. Brooke always knew she wanted to study business, believing that it would provide her with the flexibility and skillsets necessary to pursue diverse career opportunities. In addition to her passion for business, Brooke loves spending time outdoors and backpacking during the summer months. She’s also an avid cook and enjoys whipping up mouth-watering meals year-round for friends and family. Brooke’s love for furry friends knows no bounds, as she’s a proud pet parent to two adorable golden retrievers, Charlie and Westley. We’re thrilled to have Brooke on our team and can’t wait to see all the amazing things she’ll accomplish!

We are over the moon to have Tyler, Ray, Leah and Brooke join us, and work to help make Milbrandt an even better firm!

The importance of AAPI representation in the AEC industry

The Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community has significantly contributed to the architecture, engineering, and construction industry in the United States.  From designing iconic buildings to constructing massive infrastructure projects, AAPI professionals have played a vital role in shaping the built environment of America.  In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we wanted to explore the importance of AAPI’s influence in the AEC industry.

First and foremost, AAPI professionals bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the AEC industry.  As a community, AAPI individuals hail from various countries, cultures, and backgrounds.  This diversity brings fresh ideas and approaches to design and construction projects, helping to create unique and innovative solutions that might not otherwise be possible.  In addition, AAPI professionals bring valuable insights into global markets and cultures, which can be a significant advantage in an increasingly interconnected world.
Furthermore, AAPI professionals have been instrumental in shaping the AEC industry in the United States.  Many AAPI architects, engineers, and builders have designed and constructed some of the country’s most recognizable buildings and infrastructure projects.  For example, the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, the Hoover Dam, and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System were all designed and built with the help of AAPI professionals.

Moreover, AAPI professionals have significantly contributed to sustainable design and construction practices.  AAPI cultures have a long history of sustainability practices, such as using renewable materials and optimizing natural resources, which are becoming increasingly incorporated into modern design and construction projects.  Thus, many AAPI architects and engineers have embraced the principles of green building and have worked to incorporate sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally friendly designs into their projects.  This commitment to sustainability is good for the environment and helps create more livable and healthy communities, and helps to create a more sustainable future for the AEC industry and the world at large.

Despite the significant contributions of AAPI professionals to the AEC industry, the community has faced its share of challenges.  AAPI professionals have often had to overcome discrimination and prejudice in the workplace and broader society.  Furthermore, AAPI professionals have historically been underrepresented in leadership positions within the AEC industry, which has limited their influence and ability to effect change. To address these issues, the AEC industry must work to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace.  This means actively recruiting and promoting AAPI professionals and providing mentorship and professional development opportunities.  It also means fostering a workplace culture that values diversity and is free from discrimination and bias.

Therefore, the contributions of AAPI professionals to the AEC industry cannot be overstated.  From bringing diverse perspectives and innovative ideas to designing iconic buildings and infrastructure projects, AAPI professionals have played a vital role in shaping the built environment of America.  Moving forward, the AEC industry must continue to work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace that values all professionals’ contributions, regardless of their background or identity.