Alchemy

Minneapolis Star Tribune: Twice In One Week!

2012-01-06T12:02:00.009-06:00

Alchemy has been fortunate enough to be featured in two separate Minneapolis Star Tribune articles in the last couple of days. The first of the weeHouse mentions was part of the 2011 AIA Honor Award Winners announcement. The Marfa weeHouse was selected as a 2011 Small Project Honor Award recipient by AIA Minnesota. The Marfa weeHouse as well as the other AIA Honor Award winners can be seen on the Star Tribune's website here.

On Sunday morning Alchemy woke up to a second story which featured photos of weeHouses floating though the air. The article titled "Prefab cachet is catching on" highlights the benefits of prefab construction. Alchemy's Geoffrey Warner is quoted a number of times in the article. Check out the online version of the article here.

Thanks Star Tribune!

weeHouse Featured in Natural Home and Garden

2012-01-06T11:21:00.004-06:00

Our friends at Natural Home & Garden recently highlighted the weeHouse in their January/February issue. The article written by Susan Melgren is a brief overview of the original weeHouse with insight from Geoffrey Warner. If you are curious about the design process that created the Arado weeHouse, be sure to read the article here.

Dwell Dwellers!

2012-01-06T10:21:00.006-06:00

Alchemy was recently featured in Dwell Magazine for a number of our ongoing projects.

The cover story of the December/January issue of Dwell magazine focused on the next generation of American prefab housing and serves as a "shoppers guide" to buying prefab. Dwell was kind enough to feature weeHouse in the article.

Alchemy was also featured in the issue for its recent work with Dror Benshetrit and his studio on the wee[QuaDror]House. The brand new design utilizes Dror's QuaDror system as the support frame for a house. If you would like to learn a bit more about this, check out the QuaDror website.

Alchemy is featured one last time in this Dwell issue. For fun (and to help our friends at Dwell) you will have to pick up your own copy of the issue to find the last Alchemy mention. We could barely contain our amusement by this final mention. It is slightly hidden, so you may have to play "Where's Waldo" to find it.

Be sure to grab a copy of Dwell and look for Alchemy and weeHouse in future Dwell issues!

The Department of Public Design visits the Saint Paul Forum

2012-01-05T12:09:00.003-06:00

Recently, Geoffrey Warner of Alchemy participated in a discussion on the Saint Paul Forum through the Saint Paul Neighborhood Network. As a member of The Department of Public Design, Geoff joined Jay Isenberg to discuss the idea, goals, and functions of the Department. If you would like to learn a bit more about The Department of Public Design check out the video here or check out the Department's blog here.

weeHouse Delivered to Centuria, WI!

2012-01-04T14:43:00.004-06:00

Delivering a weeHouse is always exciting. Two weeks ago Alchemy delivered the one time Saturn weeHouse to its new home overlooking a lake in Centuria, WI. Check out the video from delivery day below. Hope you enjoy!

ArchDaily Features the Blair Barn House

2011-12-28T10:37:00.006-06:00

Better late than never! Our good friends at ArchDaily were kind enough to feature the Blair Barn House on their website last month.. We always appreciate when others share Alchemy's work. Check out this link for the feature from ArchDaily.com.

Blair Barn House Video

2011-08-05T11:15:00.006-05:00

We recently came across some footage from last September of a visit to the Blair Barn House. Geoffrey Warner is our tour guide as he describes the characteristics and features of this one-of-a-kind award winning house. Check out the video below!

In Fast (and Good) Company

2011-04-05T09:58:00.002-05:00

Many thanks to Fast Company magazine for highlighting the National AIA Award winners in a slide show presentation. We're pleased to be in such great "Company" so-to-speak!

Phillips Garden (home to the only rooftop weeHouse!) to host Open Studio Days!

2011-03-22T16:08:00.000-05:00

April 22^nd and April 23^rd

11am-2pm

Phillips Garden, the avant-garde landscape firm in Minneapolis (and home to the only rooftop weeHouse!), is offering two days of free garden and landscape advice by staff landscape architects, designers and horticulturists. weeKnows their work is fabulous ... check out the Goodrich Bungalow backyard!

This is a great opportunity to get a feel of what a professional service can offer you as well as unlock the potential of your own home landscape.

“Many homeowners don’t know where to begin”, says Tyler Grissman, lead designer who has been with the firm for 8 years. “In addition to helping people see potential in their landscape, we can also help them understand the process and advantages of hiring a landscape design/build company”.

Interested homeowners are encouraged to bring photos, layouts and measurements with them as well as a list of their own thoughts and needs. Advance sign up is recommended.

weeWallpaper

2011-03-18T14:25:00.000-05:00

wee has some cyber-wallpaper for'ya:

Downloadable for Mac or PC, the images were created by Geoffrey Warner and Greta Vick and are part of the "10 weeHouses 2011" project.

Thanks to all you dreamers who kept asking us for this ... we keep trying!

Imagine Living in a Small House exhibit, Milwaukee, WI

2011-03-18T14:19:00.000-05:00

The weeHouse is part of Imagine Living Big in a Small House, an extension of the Milwaukee Art Museum’s Frank Lloyd Wright exhibition Organic Architecture for the 21st Century. The truly wee weeHouse (built to a 1:12 scale) was created by Paris Renfroe and Robert Feyereisen. Paper figures inside are made by Jordan Grace Owens. When the exhibit is over on 5.15, the model will be available for purchase. Contact the model makers for more information. Photos provided by Feyereisen/Renfroe. More info at MiniModern blog, too.

2011 AIA National Housing Award for Blair Barn House

2011-03-18T14:15:00.000-05:00

The American Institute of Architects has awarded the Blair Barn House by Geoffrey Warner with a 2011 AIA National Housing Award which emphasizes the importance of good housing as a necessity of life, a sanctuary for the human spirit and a valuable national resource. Alchemy is grateful to clients Donna Brogan & Bert Hodous, also Empire Development Construction and Coulee View Construction for making it a reality. Thank you!

wee's not getting any younger . . .

2011-02-15T14:17:00.000-06:00

Although Alchemy gets quite a few calls about building new weeHouses, or simply new houses, we also get a fair number of calls about staying renovating existing houses (which we love to do!).

Adapting a home for a changing lifestyle is a terrific design challenge. Lot of variables and considerable constraints make experienced designers all the more helpful. Maybe a young family is growing, so they're thinking about more space. Often, a family is rooted in their community and they're thinking about making an existing space 'smarter' for their lifestyle. And more and more people are asking us about 'mother-in-law' weeHouses, or growing 'outside' their existing box. Lots of options, lots of choices.

Locally, the University of MN is taking a look at design that optimizes "aging" at home. Since wee's not getting any younger, we're looking forward to seeing it. Here's the info.:

Smart House, Livable Community, Your Future

February 5 - May 22, 2011

The first of 70 million Baby Boomers will reach age 65 in 2011. The size and impact of this post-World War II generation will challenge America’s resources, communities, and concepts of what it is to be a “senior.” An AARP survey quoted in the Wall Street Journal (9/19/09) found that 85% of surveyed individuals age 50+ said they wish to remain in their community for as long as possible.

What does the desire to continue living independently mean for the design of homes for aging Baby Boomers, and for the design of communities? Housing Studies professor Marilyn Bruin and Masters student Jodene Riha will address these questions in the upcoming exhibition, Smart House, Livable Community, Your Future, at the Goldstein Museum of Design (GMD), College of Design, University of Minnesota (February 5-May 22, 2011).

We're Celebrating!

2010-11-05T00:30:00.000-05:00

http://www.startribune.com/business/106738028.html?elr=KArksUUUoDEy3LGDiO7aiU

Thank you to AIA-MN for two Honor Awards as announced at the 2010 MN-AIA annual convention for the Blair Barn House and the SPECS Optical Facade. We are thrilled to receive these, and to be in the company of our creative and talented peers.

Completion of the Blair Barn House, Blair, WI

2010-10-19T15:24:00.000-05:00

Alchemy loves barns! The Blair Barn House celebrates the straightforward utilitarian nature intrinsic to farm life by taking its clues from classic 19th century big barns and updating them for the sustainable priorities of the 21st century.

Alchemy's goal was to build a modern design acceptable in a rural community where families have lived for generations. Priorities included:
- barn siding with filtered barn light
- few, but large, openings
- an open-and-under space in the main living area, reflecting the traditional barn hay loft space and granary floors
- a nod to farm technology
- respect of a farmer's common sense approach to the seasons and tasks

Together with clients and colleagues, Geoffrey Warner put together a program of creating a full-time house with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and adequate storage. Locally harvested 4/4 rough-sawn white oak creates a rainscreen as an exterior skin. Inside, the client (a furniture designer) wrapped walls with assorted salvaged hard woods that accentuate floating masses and passageways.The project is 2600 gross SF, with 1850 finished SF. It utilizes a geothermal heating system, passive solar/sun shading and the strategic placement of windows for reduced heat loss. A concrete thermal mass floor integrates infloor heat.

The warped west facade gives nod to the graceful, aging grey barn neighbor, and hosts great sliding porch doors. Inside, ropes and pulleys operate lights and doors. Outside, awnings of steel and cable provide for adjustable light infiltration.

This project was completely site built by Empire Development and Building in Onalaska, WI. Build costs ran approx. $360K (including geothermal).

wee goes off-grid

2010-08-30T21:23:00.003-05:00

Bill and Mary Griffith have converted their modestly sized weeHouse into a off-grid oasis. With the addition of a fully functioning PV array this summer, Bill reports, "we are sending power back into the grid! It's pretty cool to watch." Think of it as a power station for the neighborhood. By sending power back into the grid you're actually helping to power your neighbor's house with sustainable energy.

Although the Moab weeHouse is planned to be a weeZero in the future, this is, for the record, Alchemy's first Net Zero weeHouse. And wee is thanking entrepreneurial and incredibly good-earth-minded clients for that. It's a perfect example of 'phasing in' your dream weeHouse. (The weeHouse was 'set' in Fall 2008.) The house is located near Albany, NY, so look-out-mother-nature ... wee'll be taking you on as you dish lots of snow and cold weather. In the winter months, the Griffith's enjoy warm floors from the in-floor heat system powered by a solar hot water collector on the roof, and when the sun's not shining they use an efficient wood burning fireplace to stay cozy.

With 2+ dozen or so weeHouses built to date, all of our clients are "early adopters" on the sociology scale, but when you're also a pioneer in creating 'the first' ... it's even more darn special. wee hopes you enjoy a very, very long sustainable, low impact lifestyle in high style. For more information about Net Zero weeHouses see www.weehouse.com.

MASTER/Plan: Visionary Architects and Their Utopian Worlds

2010-08-30T20:29:00.005-05:00

weeHouse by Alchemy is pleased to be featured in MASTER/Plan, an exhibit held at the Cornell Fine Arts Museum on the campus of Rollins College, Orlando, FL. The exhibit also features ARTifacts by Geoffrey Warner. Warner will be attending the Opening (members and public) so please do come by if you're in the area.

Warner's "10 weeHouses" (with a nod to Andy Warhol's "10 Marilyns") will be on display as a print, and also as a sculpture representative of the architectural process. The original print created with Shayne Schuldt, gives blatant reference to Andy Warhol's "10 Marilyns" and extends the idea that buildings, typically thought of as commodities, can be elevated to being works of art given the right context—even if being built using mass production methods.

The 10 weeHouses sculpture features model-size weeHouses hand crafted from a variety of repurposed and new materials including: ash branches, pallet wood, acrylic, hot rolled steel, and water-jet cut aluminum. Scott McGlasson of Woodsport (www.woodsport.net) hand crafted some of the weeHouses, contributing his skilled woodworker's finishing detail. Warner worked with other local manufacturers on the speciality cuts to the acrylic and steel. (FYI: McGlasson & Woodsport are featured in many of Alchemy's award-winning projects including the Hopkins Baumann Loft, The NoLo Loft, and his very own Northwoods weeHouse.)

There is also a hands-on area for weeHouse admirers. Alchemy, along with Beka (award-winning toy makers in our hometown of St. Paul), created sets of wood and steel blocks that represent (to scale) weeHouse modules. Attendees will be able to build their own weeHouse world, and wee hopes, address development planning with an eye to the well designed future.

Scott Ervin, Betsy Gabler, and Geoffrey Warner also created a "Genuine weeHouse KIT" that is for sale in the museum shop. This series of numbered and signed weeWorld KITS let you bring home a bit of art—not quite 'mass produced' but we certainly all lined up in an assembly line to put the pieces together! Open up the repurposed military issue canteen and find weeHouse blocks, sandpapers, discs, springs, and other found objects that let you create a weeWorld where blocks are buildings, sandpapers are beaches, driveways, or alien landing pads, and springs become trees, bike stations, or playground equipment.

Thanks so much to the curatorial team for the invitation and our colleagues for their contributions as well. We're honored.

---------------------------------

Museum Information:

Sustainable architecture, urban planning, and utopia are explored in an exhibition of models, drawings, and animations by six leading contemporary architects (Paolo Soleri, Adrien Smith, Michael Graves, Morris Adjmi, Alchemy Architects, and Chad Oppenheim). This exhibition sheds light on the creative and practical processes involved with community planning today. Visitors will be able to design their own utopian city.

Museum Admission: Admission is $5.00 for the public and free to CFAM members, NARM reciprocal members, children, Rollins College faculty, staff, and other college students with a valid ID

Museum Contact Information: Cornell Fine Arts Museum, 1000 Holt Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789-4499, 407.646.2526 (p), Tuesday - Friday: 10 AM - 4 PM, Saturday - Sunday: 12 - 5 PM, Closed Mondays

June 2010 Green Barn House Update

2010-06-24T14:46:00.005-05:00

Two pictures of inspiration for the design of the Green Barn House, and two "it's almost done!" pictures from our client. We think it gives a nod to the great barns on the prairie while celebrating contemporary design. And the client loves it ... which is the most important. Interior shots forthcoming.

Williamsburg weeHouse. Ready, SET ...

2010-06-17T11:41:00.004-05:00

Excitement! The Williamsburg weeHouse is READY, and it's on the road. Scott Ervin, project manager is waiting ... and gave us a sneak peak at the awaiting foundation. Stay tuned for more 'set' pictures as the trucks arrive!

Johnson Creek weeHouse | Busyboo Design Blog

2010-06-08T15:43:00.000-05:00

Johnson Creek weeHouse | Busyboo Design Blog

May 2010: Green BarnHouse update

2010-04-19T13:56:00.006-05:00

A little bit different than your typical Grandma Moses landscape ...
Spring! Siding is 1" rough sawn white oak, which is naturally weather-resistant, but has also been sealed with 2 coats of semi-transparent white stain. The oak was both an economical and sustainable choice, since it was locally harvested. Extremely durable, this will last a very long time due to the way that it is mounted to the building as a ventilated rain screen.

almost possible to see the 'house' within the house; better shot next time, we promise!
Picture perfect view.

Pre-roof, and pre-stain on the foundation.
----------------------------------------------

A very mild Spring in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin has translated to a lot of progress on the Green BarnHouse in Blair, WI (see earlier posts for more photos). The clients, one of whom is a furniture maker, have kept us in touch with these great photos of the build in between site visits from Geoffrey Warner, Principal Architect here at Alchemy. On the Web site, you can view the early architectural renderings. Visit www.alchemyarch.com > custom houses > Blair BarnHouse. An elegant salute to the big, old barns we love here in the Midwest, the siding lets natural light filter in to the inner core.

Minneapolis St. Paul Home Tour Weekend! April 24-25, 2010

2010-04-14T09:38:00.004-05:00

Alchemy is pleased to have two homes, the award-winning Goodrich Bungalow and the recently completed NoLo Loft, on the Minneapolis & Saint Paul Home Tour happening April 24-25, 2010.

On the Minneapolis & Saint Paul Home Tour of “real homes, real people, real ideas,” residents open their doors to show creative and practical ideas for home additions, kitchens, bathrooms and more. Talk directly with homeowners and find out what it’s like. At many homes, their contractors, architects, and other trades people will also be on hand to answer questions. Fifty-three homes will be featured, 35 Minneapolis and 18 in Saint Paul.

Here’s how the Tour works:

Homes on the free, self-guided 2010 tour will be open Saturday, April 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, April 25, 1-5 p.m. It will be held April 24 & 25, 2010 regardless of weather conditions.

You can decide where to start by looking at the “Homes” page on this website, wwww.MSPHomeTour.com. Printed guides will be available in early April at libraries in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and suburban Hennepin and Ramsey counties.

The Minneapolis & St. Paul Home Tour is coordinated by Minneapolis Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) and the City of Saint Paul Planning and Economic Development department, with other corporate and non-profit sponsors. We encourage people to stay in the neighborhoods they love, and to maintain and improve the cities’ housing stock. For information, call 612-673-5103.

Scott Ervin, along with owners Geoff Warner and Dawn De Keyser will be available to speak with you at the Goodrich Bungalow. Betsy Gabler and Bryan Carpenter, along with Loft Owner Barbara Paz will be in the NoLo Loft. Please come visit us and take advantage of this free, and very fun and informational tour! See the Web site for addresses and hours.

*Goodrich Photography by Karen Melvin

Modular Home Financing: Process

2010-04-12T13:23:00.003-05:00

Every day we field calls about financing the weeHouses, not just building them. With a couple dozen + under our belts, we are comfortable recommending a few lending sources (although we always suggest you work with your local bank/lender first). Here's a .pdf from one of the East Coast lending sources: American Home Bank, that I thought I'd share. Hope it's helpful!

P.S. In case the .jpg is too hard to view, their Web site is: www.systembuiltmortgage.com.

Thank you, Treehugger: Best Prefab Architect = Geoffrey Warner!

2010-04-09T14:54:00.005-05:00

Thanks to the treehugger blog for naming Geoffrey Warner, the principal architect here at Alchemy, Best Prefab Architect in their 2010 "Best of Green" Awards. We particularly appreciate that our values are noticed and valued by others. At Alchemy, our mission has consistently been to make stimulating, engaging, and efficient design accessible and affordable for a wide audience.

We are pleased to continue our distinctive hands-on approach to architecture and design that combines a playful design process, collaborative relationships with clients, and partnerships with builders and fabricators to create a harmonious blend of site, building, and community. With sustainable practices as a mainstay of our daily work, Alchemy utilizes recycling and reuse along with building strategies that reduce waste. Our multidisciplinary team draws inspiration from art, literature, history, and leading creative thinkers to create alternative and atypical project solutions. Alchemy’s innovation on the weeHouse prefab system and “tightwad panache” renovations has gained recognition we are continuously humbled by and grateful for.

Factory Seminar on Modular Building

2010-03-31T09:45:00.002-05:00

One of the independent factories we work with to build our weeHouses, Simplex, is hosting an online seminar about the benefits of modular building. Simplex also manufactures "traditional" modular homes, so you may see examples of gable roofs, etc.. Since the process is essentially the same as a weeHouse build, I thought that you might find this useful. Please note: this is not a sales pitch on the weeHouse!

We also have a lot of information—including links to more information!—on our Web site (www.weehouse.com) under 2010 weeHouses>FAQ. And, of course, we're always happy to speak with you over the phone or online to answer questions.

Here's the Simplex seminar info:

Tuesday April 6, 2010 at 7pm EST Simplex Industries will be hosting

a new home planning seminar titled "Why Modular Makes Sense/Cents".

The seminar will be hosted by

Dave Boniello, Vice President of Marketing and Development

and Dave Mertz, Vice President of Sales at Simplex

Some of the topics that will be covered in this seminar include:

· Learn what the modular process is and how it works

· True custom designing to meet your needs

· Learn about green building costs and benefits

· Learn about energy star costs and benefits

· How to establish a budget so you can look at the right home

· What you need for financing

· Learn how the speed of modular construction can help reduce your financing costs

Click on the link below to register. https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/226134768

Rooftop weeHouse installation

2010-03-12T14:07:00.001-06:00

from YouTube ... a quick video on the Phillips Garden weeHouse being "set"

Get Growing!

2010-03-12T13:53:00.003-06:00

A wonderful chance to see the first rooftop weeHouse and get the green-skinny on landscape, gardening, and green living . . .

Please join Alchemy's ground-breaking (literally) clients as they celebrate twenty-five years of business.

Phillips Garden has been creating sustainable, contemporary landscapes in the Twin Cites since 1985. In 1999 they purchased and renovated a vacant and run down arts and crafts gas station on Cedar Avenue and created an award-winning studio space with a weeHouse on top!

To celebrate 25 years in business, they'll be hosting two free Open Studios on Saturday, April 10 and Saturday, April 24 from 11 am until 2 pm. These Open Studios are a great opportunity to bring your questions, photos and measurements to the designers and horticulturists at Phillips Garden to receive great advice for your home landscape. If you are considering a landscape project, this is a perfect way to test the waters and get some fresh ideas.

The Phillips Garden team of experts in horticulture and design has over 75 years of collective experience. Half-hour bookings will be taken on a first-come, first-serve basis. Call ahead to get on the schedule. Walk-in clients will be helped as time permits.

phillipsgarden.com

Phillips Garden

2646 Cedar Avenue South

Minneapolis, MN 55407

Creating Alchemy while Reusing Materials

2010-03-09T16:20:00.003-06:00

Alchemy is designing the new retail space in Calhoun Square, Minneapolis for VState Clothing, an über-groovin' clothing store. It's a great fit! The new store will open in April, but right now, Alchemists are installing the flooring which is repurposed from an old warehouse floor. There's a terrific salvage spot here in Minneapolis called Bauer Brothers. It's an Alchemist's dream.

After the board installation, the flooring will be cleaned and buffed, and a unifying finish will be painted over the top. This way, the uniqueness of the boards will be maintained, but they'll look sharp and refinished ... perfect for a retail environment that provides sharp and fashionable clothing that is unique and contemporary.

More pix to be posted as the project continues . . .

Green Houses, featuring the weeStudio for SALE!

2010-02-16T14:26:00.002-06:00

a lil'bit'o weeLUV

2010-02-12T16:24:00.002-06:00

weeHouse on Facebook

2010-01-26T12:09:00.002-06:00

On Facebook, weeHouse links to many articles that it is featured in. Most of the pages are "public" (you do not need to be a Facebook member to read). Just an FYI for even more information!

A weeHouse in the Mountains

2010-01-22T10:57:00.007-06:00

It's been a long and winding road for this weeHouse, but finally, it has landed! The Palomar Mountain weeHouse, originally seen at Dwell on Design in 2007, is home on its very own pier foundation nestled amid glorious evergreens and sweeping views.

Originally scheduled to be prefabricated completely in factory, this weeHouse ended up needing a significant amount of on-site button up labor, too. The specs have all remained the same from the weeHouse MEDIUM it was designed to be, but due to delays outside the control of the clients, architects, and general contractor including a factory closing and very complicated site-work, it was stored for over a year in-between its perch at Dwell and its home outside of San Diego.

Alchemy knows from experience that it takes a mighty fine trio of client + contractor + architect to complete a weeHouse. weeThanks them all for their skill, patience, and tenacity to make it a go-go.

Green BarnHouse by Alchemy continuing to grow . . .

2010-01-18T09:26:00.004-06:00

This just in: new client picture from the Blair BarnHouse in Wisconsin! As noted previously, Alchemy designed this home to be modern and old simultaneously, sustainable without having to pick the granola out of your teeth, and highly crafted with significant detailing.

This will serve as a home for the clients as they redo the existing farm house on the property, and then become a guest house/studio (eventually ... if the clients decide to move out!). It was conceived as a modern Barn + House ... a theme that Alchemy has explored before due to the vernacular here in the Midwest. One interesting feature is a barn-siding inspired rain screen that envelops the whole house. It is held out about 8" from the thermal wall and wraps around the west end to shade the setting sun and form an open-air porch. The boards are about 1" apart and a laid in such a way to provide that Barn-interior light that is so seductive. Siding sub-framing exists for various water and sun-management reasons while recalling decrepit rural structures.

It will be extremely energy efficient: geothermal heating plant, partial below ground siting (think: Barn), in-floor heating (slab, poured, and staple-up), spray foam insulation into staggered stud framing, high levels of insulation, passive solar with great views and openness despite a modest glass exposure. Materials are supplied largely locally, and are selected for character and sustainability (of course!). This home will have rainwater capture.

The overall finished SF is about 1800 SF. The above-ground Barn space is composed as a single volume with a steel box and and an ash-offcut box "inserted" into it to house the good stuff.

One of the clients is a furniture craftsman and will be building many of the special pieces. We'll be sharing additional photos!

Green BarnHouse (more deux)

2009-12-19T23:12:00.003-06:00

Ever more progress around the Green BarnHouse designed by Alchemy near Blair, WI. The clients are great about sending us updates that I can share with you all. It's amazing to watch the progress, even during crazy snowfalls.

Alchemy Architects Brings Color and Charm to a Big Box Condo Creating an Artistic Oasis at the 918 Lofts Building

2009-11-20T15:26:00.003-06:00

Alchemy Architects, the award-winning St. Paul architecture firm best known for the weeHouse and its “tightwad panache,” has renovated a bland, 2000 square foot, boxy loft-style condominium into an oasis of habitable hues and selective spaces for its international owner.

Following Alchemy’s forward-thinking design and (often) typical disregard for convention, the master bedroom has been placed in the smallest room in the Loft, bringing whimsy into an otherwise austere space. At 8.5' x 11' the room is just big enough to center a queen-sized bed. A textured curtain that wraps the room provides softness, acoustical separation, and the illusion of layered space—like being on stage in one's own play. Hanging above the bed is an old-tech skeleton coil remnant—now a newborn chandelier. This piece is a variant of Bedspring Chandelier, a design by Alchemy Architects principle Geoffrey Warner, originally shown at the Weisman Art Museum in 2006.

The master bathroom features Bryan Carpenter's off-the-shelf rigging hooks for towels and a black iron C-clamp repurposed as a toilet paper holder (yes, Virginia, it really works). Carpenter served as the Project Manager on the project. These hearty, industrial fixtures juxtaposed next to a luxurious steam shower and custom bath cabinets show that modern design and contemporary details need not be uptight.

Together, Warner and Carpenter developed a floor plan with strong anchors by showcasing a fire-engine red, entertaining-ready IKEA kitchen. Scott McGlasson of Woodsport created a counter/table top using ash boards stained black that provide an elegant contrast to the cabinet’s sleek surface. A pair of mylar “feather” overhead lamps and a soaring Artemide fixture light the entrance corridor and kitchen in the spirit of Brancusi's elegant sculpture Bird in Space. A ruddy, South American wood floor is elevated to serve as leisure area, dance floor, or simply a stage for contemporary art installed right outside the bedroom. A nook for studying is also elevated just inside the front door. Sculptured timbers serve as graceful, yet functional steps allowing passage to these upper areas.

Alchemy started the schematic design of the space by defining a simple pallet of color and materials for the space: golds, warm browns, blacks, deep reds, and adding textures that melded rustic with simple and sleek: shiny red kitchen cabinets warmed with exotic wood and composite countertops. Being “green-thinking” comes naturally for Alchemy, as the theme of reuse/reduce/recycle appears in the use of cast off timbers for stairs and hot-rolled steel for doors and fireplace surround. Industrial materials are partnered with natural and rustic materials to temper the raw open space.

The space boasts corner wrap windows that look out onto the North Loop Warehouse District, just outside of downtown Minneapolis, allowing natural light to play effortlessly throughout the various rooms. The now-distinctive environment embraces the client's taste for eclectic and extraordinary details while being a welcoming place for friends and a home-away-from-home for the owner.

Architecture and Design: Bryan Carpenter and Geoffrey Warner, AIA
General Contractor: Kurt Albrecht, Owner, KA Construction, Grand Rapids, MN
Various Woodwork: Scott McGlasson, Owner, Woodsport, woodsport.net

Green BarnHouse (more)

2009-11-13T10:13:00.004-06:00

More excitement from the field for the Blair Green BarnHouse designed by Alchemy: precast concrete porch floors arrive, and the first wall goes up!

Green Barnhouse in Western Wisconsin

2009-11-10T11:19:00.004-06:00

Alchemists live in the Midwest and we love barns. Our clients love barns. Everyone loves barns. Can you imagine a house that took all the great things about barns and left those other things to the cows?

Alchemy designed a custom house using 19th century simplicity and 21st Century technology including:

Barn siding with light filtering through
Few, but large openings
A sleeping loft and bedrooms in the cellar
And, of course, Barn Space: an open 2-story room with two volumes inserted within. One in steel, the other in ash strips, they provide under-and over spaces like a hayloft (without the smell).

The green BarnHouse uses passive solar design and features advanced framing, spray foam insulation, locally sourced materials, and concrete and wood floors with in-floor heat powered by a geothermal system. Local General Contractors and Tradesmen are doing the site-building.

Alchemy is pleased to share the architectural rendering and now (drum roll, please) client photos of the site work!

Summer and Winter Site Views, 2008

Geothermal Prep Work, 2009

Foundation Prep Work, 2009:

Guide to Buying Eco-Friendly Furniture - Gaiam Life

2009-10-29T10:24:00.001-05:00

Guide to Buying Eco-Friendly Furniture - Gaiam Life

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weeBoat ... we still dream!

2009-10-05T15:26:00.003-05:00

MetroShip is the company that has agreed to build the weeHouse Boat (weeShip?!) should anyone be interested. wee likes this one, too (their design), but would like to see the Alchemists put their spin on it. Price structure is the same ... so really, isn't there someone who's ready to 'float our boat'?!

"green papers" for the weeHouse

2009-08-27T11:09:00.004-05:00

One of our favorite thoughts about new construction at Alchemy is:

the greenest square foot is the one you don't build.

In other words, efficiency isn't just about what you do, it's about what you don't.

As designers, we begin each project with a set of limitations and possibilities and — most importantly — the client. Step-by-step we consider time, budget, materials and lifestyle. Always, we consider efficiency and sustainability. They're cornerstones of the prefabricated weeHouse.

Some 'wee's' are more sustainable and efficient than others, but each is built intentionally for its owner. ('wee's' aren't sitting around waiting for a lot to be placed on as wee waits for no one!)

As Alchemy enters the final quarter of 2009, we're ready to launch ideas for 2010. You'll be seeing updates over the next few weeks. But for now, take a look at our weeGreen sheets that include ideas for a weeZERO.

As always, let us know what YOU think. wee cares a lot about that!

MN NICE: Local Coverage of the McGlasson weeHouse for Sale

2009-08-17T16:58:00.000-05:00

weeHouse x deux ... NY to CO!

2009-08-14T11:29:00.002-05:00

Casual pictures of weeHouses #19 and #20 being 'set' in Dundee, NY and Nederland, CO. Who sez'contemporary prefab ain't happenin'? Not wee!

Nederland weeHouse

Dundee weeHouse

More pictures will be posted as the project exteriors are finished.

Also, keep your eye open for the Oceanside weeHouse being featured in Atomic Ranch magazine this Fall. Very exciting!

weeHouse STUDIO for Sale, $48,000

2009-07-29T16:14:00.003-05:00

weeHouse STUDIO for Sale, $48,000

You are welcome to see-this-wee at its current location in Siren, WI (see www.weehouse.com for more details).

Perfect for an artist retreat, guest/bunk house, yoga studio ... Ready? Set. Whee!

SPECIFICS

exterior dimensions = 27'L x 12'W x 10'H (324 SF)

studio may sit on permanent or temporary foundation

custom steel base frame includes fork lift pockets and casters (use of casters is optional)

IKEA kitchen wall that is plumbing-ready

Summit under counter, stainless steel refrigerators (2)

natural bamboo floor, walls, and ceiling

Andersen sliding glass doors (screens provided on 2 of 6; locking)

electrical wiring set-up for standard 110 V generator or plug-in, multiple outlets, “live” tracks on ceiling for spot lighting, recessed lighting throughout

fully insulated walls, weather-tight EPDM rubber roof

includes the custom cedar decking with ramp and entry stair step (ships separately from house)

shipping and set to be paid by buyer (approximately $7/mi from Siren, WI + $1000. ‘set’ fees)

weight = approximately 16,000 pounds

may not be shipped overseas due to ocean freight restrictions

comes with heavy-duty custom tarp cover for storage, and crate for casters

interior furniture not included in price, but available for sale

price includes 4 hours of Alchemy’s innovative design and expertise to help with foundation or interior plans ($500+ value)

contact Alchemy Architects, St. Paul, MN

info@alchemyarch.com, 651-647-6650

additional photos located on www.weeHouse.com

Alchemy Designs Next Generation of Dental Offices

2009-07-17T16:04:00.002-05:00

David Ong, DDS, owner of Silver Lake Smiles in New Brighton, MN now practices in a relaxing and calming, yet clever and state-of-the-art clinic that reflects his practice's mission: precision and innovation that is still sensitive to patients' needs for comfort and reassurance.

"Alchemy understood from the beginning that they needed to create a sophisticated yet playful space and integrate a sense of privacy for my clients," states Dr. Ong. "They respected my timeline, budget, and concerns--feedback from patients has been great!"

Starting with a blank slate of 1,120 SF of retail space in a suburban commercial center, Designer and Project Manager Bryan Carpenter developed an efficient floor plan that manages to be whimsical and theatrical. Color and texture palettes incorporate natural materials including bamboo, cotton, and walnut along with sound absorbing surfaces. The result is a calm, interesting, and inviting environment for patients at Silver Lake Smiles.

The office is organized by a hallway of light; a sculpture that Carpenter created from multiple translucent fiberglass panels separates the treatment area from the reception area. Full-length gold velvet stage curtains create a private lounge area and graciously surround the functional utility alcoves.

Complementing materials are used throughout the space. Removing the suspended ceiling tiles, replacing them with a patchwork of inexpensive rolled up roman blinds, and adding skylights above creates a space worth looking up to. Alchemy worked with Scott McGlasson of Woodsport to manipulate standard IKEA cabinets for a high-finish look. Off-the-shelf tool carts, glove dispensers created from stainless tissue holders, and whimsical toy highlights also help to distinguish this clinic, while adhering to a strict budget.

The once nondescript commercial space has been transformed into a contemporary dental clinic that is both cutting-edge and comfortable. Open wide and say 'ahhhhhhhhhh . . . cool!'

North Woods weeHouse for SALE

2009-07-10T13:56:00.002-05:00

Wow! The most requested weeHouse style is up for sale ...
here's your chance for not only a weeHouse, but a custom weeHouse with fantastic interior detailing by noted craftsman, Scott McGlasson. Check out that sauna (grey building)!

Mill City Farmer's Market ... cool stuff

2009-06-19T11:06:00.002-05:00

If you happen to be in Minnie this weekend and need a lil' sumpin' sumpin' to do, check out our pal, Scott McGlasson and his work from Woodsport at the Mill City Farmer's Market. Woodsport has provided many of the 'haute' touches in our projects. Amazing, cool, and well, local ... so support it if you can! Plus, you get a great view of the Guthrie and the Mississippi. Perfect!

wee is so "Continental"

2009-06-12T11:11:00.002-05:00

wee knows the idea of prefabrication isn't new.

And wee knows that modular construction has been around for years.

So with all that history, wee is still surprised that the idea of living small and efficiently and well-designed is 'news'. But, it is. And Alchemy + their weeHouses + their "tightwad panache" renovations are humbled to often be featured in articles like this one that stress that idea.

Every week the Alchemists have conversations with people around the world about the possibilities of building their weeHouse. I've never figured out the actual rate of build-to-conversation, but I'd guess it's one in two-hundred or so (figuring we field a minimum of 10 conversations per week). The piece of the pie that Alchemy holds for new house builds is tiny ... let's say a dieter's dream portion ... but it's mighty. Mighty fine indeed.

It's not every day you get to design a house. And not every house can be a wee. But when it happens, it's one mighty fine gig to be a part of.

It's also not every day you get to jet around the world. But, if you happen to be jetting on Continental Airlines, take a look at this article in their in-flight magazine. wee is flying high now!

The end of one dream and beginning of another

2009-05-28T11:55:00.001-05:00

The end of one dream and beginning of another

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Is 'wee' there yet?! Ah ... sounds of summer.

2009-05-21T16:52:00.004-05:00

Alchemy Architects is pleased to announce that the

Saturn weeHouse has landed in Siren, Wisconsin!

General Motors has graciously returned the Saturn weeHouse to its midwest roots for the summer. This weeStudio offers many weeHouse standard features including the IKEA kitchen, Kohler fixtures, Andersen 200 series Perma-Shield windows and bamboo flooring.

It's great to have a model here in the Midwest. The weeHouses we typically build are not, of course, this wee! And they usually have a bathroom and working kitchen. But, this is an opportunity to experience the space, the floor to ceiling windows, see an example of the IKEA wall kitchen, and understand how we work with bamboo on the walls as well as the floor.

A bit more 'wee' than typically ordered, it's still a great way to get an understanding of Alchemy's fabulous prefab in the beautiful lakes region of Wisconsin. weeHouses make great cabins, too!

Betsy will be in Siren on Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23, 2009 to answer questions. The Saturn weeHouse will remain on display as a model through at least August 2009. Questions may be directed to Betsy at info@weehouses.com. For directions, see www.honhomes.com.

Throughout the summer you'll be able to talk with a modular home expert with years of experience in financing, general contracting, and building in the lakes region. Hosted by Heart of the North Homes, weeHouse clients in Wisconsin's Lake Country can now coordinate site work, weeHouse design + build and all contracting finish work in one stop.

Call Al Glorvigen in Siren at 715-349-8800 for more details

or email info@honhomes.com.

Hours are Tuesdays-Saturdays 10-4, and by appointment.

Gushing on Green

2009-04-23T11:40:00.005-05:00

Over Easter weekend, Alchemist B journeyed from Minne to ChiIl(y) and made a 2nd stop at the Smart Home on display at the Museum of Science and Industry. I had been down there while it was being 'set' ... and was very glad to see the final product.

Michelle Kaufmann Designs (MKD) created a fabulous showcase highlighting the importance of green building ideas in an educational setting that is engaging and impressionable—let alone inspirational (super cool sponsors, interior design and gadgets!). It is realistic in size, and although I suppose not everyone who's building new will be able to incorporate *all* the great ideas, I think that everyone will be inspired to squeeze in as much as they can.

Inside and outside the views and details are outstanding. It's a great example of MSI's amazing mission, Chicago's ever-forward-thinking and MKD's contemporary architecture (that also happens to be prefab ... so, ya'know, weeLuvs it).

On the tour, my guide John had a very informative, jargon-free script to work with. (He himself was a great 'kid'!) There are ample engaging moments of explanations including:

where all the hot air goes
how water is recirculated
how one room is particularly youngster friendly
why a green roof makes sense
how design creates spaces that work efficiently

Five key principles as identified by MK: Smart Design, Material Efficiency, Energy Efficiency, Water Efficiency and a Healthy Environment are incorporated, clearly illustrated and annotated throughout the home.

My 'group' was a mix of families, construction 'guys' and the just-curious. It made for some sassy conversations as people elevated their priorities in the form of comments like 'that sink doesn't have a stopper! that seems wasteful' and 'my kid would fall off this deck' and 'I would never leave the rooftop it's such a great view' and my favorite 'Mom: this is the coolest place you've ever made me go to!'. Hope for the future ... and a slice of life, so-to-speak.

It'd be great to see interactive, illustrative, and darn-good-idea-generating architecture like this in many places ... so you can experience—not just gawk at pictures of—fresh ideas. On display through Jan. 3, 2010.

Up North

2009-04-20T10:56:00.003-05:00

Alchemy took a road trip "up North" (that's Minnesota-talk for 'to the Lake') to Siren, WI and Heart of the North Quality Built Homes. Heart of the North sells modular homes through two companies right now and is hoping to be the liaison to Alchemy Architects for weeHouses built near Burnett County, WI. Here are pictures from the visit. They include the location (just north of Siren on Hiway 70 and a shot of Al Glorvigen, Owner of HoN Homes (working with two clients, one of whom lost her home in the Gunflint Trail fire last year ... very sad).

This partnership would merge the design experience of Alchemy Architects & the weeHouse with the project coordination (site prep, foundation, contractor, shipping, button-up work, local permits, etc.) expertise of Heart of the North.

Let us know what you think about this, please. Thanks!

Bungalow Renovation takes a RAVE

2009-04-14T15:44:00.006-05:00

Alchemy is pleased to announce we received a RAVE (Residential Architects' Vision and Excellence) Award in 2009! The Goodrich Bungalow Renovation was recently completed after the addition of its front entry porch. We have the exterior before and after photos as well as the backyard and its twin peaks garages! Landscaping by Phillips Garden, Minneapolis and owners. Interior photos copyrightKaren Melvin Photography.

April 14, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

From AIA-MN

RAVE Awards Acknowledge Residential

Architects’ Vision & Excellence

Minneapolis, Minnesota – Nine residential architecture

projects by Minnesota architects have been selected

for this year’s Residential Architects Vision and

Excellence (RAVE) Awards. The RAVE program, in its

sixth year, was created by AIA Minnesota and

Mpls.St.Paul Magazine to recognize excellence in

residential design and raise awareness of the benefits

of using an architect. Forty-nine submissions were

entered in different categories including new and

remodeled homes, large and small sizes and budgets.

The jury was comprised of Charles Liddy, AIA, Miller

Dunwiddie Architects; Phillip Koski, AIA, Leo A. Daly; Martha Yunker, AIA, Yunker & Associates,

and Shawn Gilliam, editor, Home Magazine.

Bungalow Renovation

won in the Addition/Remodel Over 800SF catagory

Alchemy LLC

Geoffrey Warner, AIA

wee out West

2009-03-23T16:14:00.005-05:00

Howdy!

Although "wee" calls the prairie home, it's decided to venture out West in partnership with a preservation community in the Black Hills of South Dakota (well, 'out East' to those of you already out West!).

THE RIM at Red Canyon Ranch yields epic views that make a perfect setting for the weeHouse's wall of floor to ceiling windows. The wee's small footprint treads lightly on this idyllic site as well, making mother nature happy (we assume as no thunder claps yet).

Black Hills Wilderness Preservation CommunityTM is wee's first "pardner" so-to-speak. A lot of people ask about representing the weeHouse in certain territories, but this is the first organization to make it work. We are so looking forward to sleeping under the stars! And certainly welcome you making your home campfire with us.

Homesteads at The Rim begin at $175,000, and offer weeHouse as well as other "Retreat Architecture" packages. Take a look—and be one of the first to put a wee Home on the Range!

Winner! 2009 AIA-MN Home of the Month Award

2009-03-23T13:44:00.007-05:00

We're pleased to accept one of the twelve AIA-MN 2009/2010 Home of the Month awards chosen last week by a distinguished jury of peers. The Goodrich Bungalow Renovation was recently completed after the addition of its front entry porch. We have the exterior before and after photos as well as the backyard and its twin peaks garages! Landscaping by Phillips Garden, Minneapolis and owners. Interior photos copyright Karen Melvin Photography.

The house’s “shell” is respectful of its 1911 origins while “objects”

are inserted as contemporary additions

Interior “pathway elements” create an axial organizing arrangement

PROJECT GOALS

Flexible floor plan for family of 4 with 2 grade school children
Phase renovations over a period of 7 years to fit with the owners’ budget
Create a working kitchen for daily cooking and frequent entertaining
Create an urban garden retreat
Energy efficiency

TECHNICAL

Spray-in Icynene foam insulation
Energy efficient Andersen windows, doors and updated storm doors including self-modulating sky lights
In-floor hydronic heat combined with flat-panel radiators controlled by automatic thermostat
Natural ventilation core
Salvaged + typically industrial objects and materials used including doors, hardware, parachute, metals and lumber
IKEA kitchen, customized, with sanded glass island and FireSlate counter tops
Polygal greenhouse plastic, random-orbit sanded
Tech lighting low-voltage fixtures
Galvanized and cold-rolled perforated steel railings

Living Green with Alchemy

2009-03-04T15:42:00.004-06:00

Geoffrey Warner, AIA, will be speaking at the 2009 Living Green Expo in St. Paul, MN on Saturday, May 2, from 2 to 3 p.m.

The topic is Prefab (surprise, surprise!):

Architectural design + prefab technologies create sustainable solutions with environmental sense and time + cost efficiencies. Learn about sustainable prefab buildings built right here in Minnesota.

We hope to see you there! More information is available at the Web site (linked above).

wee loves the view!

2009-02-27T11:36:00.009-06:00

It's been a big week for the weeHouse. Over the river(s) and through (many) woods wee traveled to arrive in the beautiful Oceanside community. Site work is ongoing including siding, deck, stairs and misc. finish work, but the weeHouse doorbell is in!

As the 17th weeHouse built in the US, it was the first to have two birth places. Due to unfortunate events with the first factory, production was moved to the Stratford plant in Rathdrum, ID. A highly efficient team and project manager built this house in very short order. Alchemy is so pleased to have worked with them.

Scott from Alchemy was there to do the 'set' along with the client's general contractor, who'll be finishing up the job. As the house finishes up, we'll post pix as we're able. However, being respectful of our client's privacy we'll be limiting the exposure. As with most of our projects, I'm sure some media will pick it up and we'll keep you updated on our Web site.

Meanwhile, this is a great representation of the weeHouse standard PAIR. Enjoy!

Color My weeWorld

2009-02-26T10:42:00.004-06:00

New photos from the Cobleskill weeHouse, set last Fall. Exciting to see how color helps define the spaces and add visual interest that complements the ever-so-epic views! Oh, and of course we also needed to post the most important one of weeKittie, too!

'Twas the night before setting ...

2009-02-24T17:12:00.004-06:00

when all through the weeHouse, the only things moving were wheels on the truck ...
Okay, I'll stop!

But we're all very excited to hear about the Oceanside, OR weeHouse installation on Wednesday. I have a couple of pictures from the factory to share here, and when Scott sends back some on-site images, of course we'll post those, too. This is the 17th built weeHouse, and the first of 2009. It's been a long time coming (oh yeah, there's a big story there), and we are thankful to have clients who have seen this wee through.

wee bit of 'green' for green idea$?

2009-02-03T12:33:00.003-06:00

From Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (www.greenroofs.org), this just 'in' regarding a possible financial incentive for those interested in either commercial or residential green roofs. Since we think green roofs on top of weeHouses would be sah-wee-t (dare-I-say a "GweeN Roof"?), we're all about following this story!

Senator Maria Cantwell (WA) Introduces Green Roof Tax Incentive

[January 30, 2009] Senator Maria Cantwell from Washington State introduced the Clean Energy Stimulus and Investment Assurance Act of 2009 (S.320) legislation on Monday January 26 that, if adopted, would provide financial incentives for commercial and residential green roof installation. Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and the American Society of Landscape Architects worked together to help draft the section of the bill that is focused on the green roof incentive.

Award for an Alchemist

2009-01-08T15:36:00.004-06:00

I'm pleased to announce that Alchemy's very own Scott Ervin was just awarded one of the "30 Under Forty" awards to be presented at the 2009 International Builder's Show (where else but 'Vegas, baby). By receiving this award, he's being recognized as a leader in the systems built industry and as a person whose skills, visibility and influence are shaping the future of housing today.

And, as you can see from the photo (taken recently at the SPECS Optical Open House) he is already stylin' for the presentation. Congratulations to Scott!

Prefab Recap in Portland Monthly

2008-12-02T14:46:00.001-06:00

not-so-weeHouse update

2008-12-02T13:56:00.004-06:00

We were able to get some new photos of the not-so-weeHouse referred to as the Johnson Creek weeHouse on our Web site gallery. I'm happy to share a few here, but please see more at www.weehouse.com.

"wee" looks forward to working with you!

weeHouse as (hopefully!) Future Affordable Housing Option in Philadelphia

2008-12-02T13:54:00.000-06:00

Alchemy hosts a SPECStacular party!

2008-11-10T10:58:00.004-06:00

Granted, we gave pretty short notice of this party via weeMail and we apologize for that! But for those who were able to attend the SPECStacular Event this past Saturday ... thanks for coming! Some information on this custom architecture project by Alchemy:

Minneapolis, MN — A new eye-catching façade for SPECS Optical in Uptown has been created by St. Paul-based Alchemy Architects. A city landscape beautification project had obscured the SPECS Optical storefront located at the busy corner of Hennepin Ave. S. and 22nd St. West and owners John Oliva and Nancy Krant’s options were limited by sign code restrictions. Using optics and transparency, Alchemy’s design draws attention to the building, encouraging people to “see differently”. A crystalline envelope of 5/8" thick greenhouse polycarbonate was attached to the storefront openings. The self-supporting skin was manipulated to form offset and distorted frames around the existing windows. “We wanted the design to mirror the optical store’s function and pushed ideas of frame and optics to the building’s public face,” said Geoffrey Warner, AIA, founder and principal of Alchemy Architects.

Design work was undertaken using 3-D computer modeling. The dimensional plans were then flattened, allowing for efficient model and physical production with a CNC router. Instead of working drawings, a perfect scale model of the skin was used as a 3-D guide to installation, with all pieces numbered in small and full scales. This innovative approach provided the freedom to explore geometry that would have been extremely difficult to produce using conventional methods. Custom translucent urethane straps were cut to provide a continuous “stitched” seam at the edges. The aluminum sign boxes were laser-cut and welded to contain the store identity. Very low-energy LED lights color-phase in and out to illuminate the façade. Custom aluminum planter boxes greet clients and neighborhood walkers alike, wrapping up the building from top-to-bottom with texture and eye-catching detailing. It’s a new way to see the growing architectural creativity in the Twin Cities.

Creative + Build:
SPECS Optical: 2204 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN, Phone: 612-374-2114, Web site: www.specsoptical.com
Design and Fabrication: Alchemy LLC: Geoffrey Warner, Scott Ervin, Khanh Nguyen, Blake Lloya
Graphic Design and Identity: Werner Designwerks, Sharon Werner, Principal, Web site: www.wdw.com
Lighting Design: Jim Marvy
Panel Fabrication: Atomic Architectural Sheet Metal, Web site: atomicsheetmetal.com
Signage Lettering: Archetype Signs, Contact: Steve Carpenter, 651-994-9363, Web site: www.archetypesign.com
Installation: K-A Construction and Alchemy

And here are a few photos of the fun!

wee been New York kinda busy!

2008-10-23T14:28:00.006-05:00

Too busy to Blog? Yup! That's how it's been here at Alchemy. Three new wee's are now placed and being finessed to perfection, and one STUDIO weeHouse is having a fabulous time being a starlette at A Clean Break during Design Philadelphia.

Where to start? Oh! The beginning.
October 11, 2008 brought Scott Ervin and Betsy Gabler outside of Cobleskill, NY to host the first (ever) weeOpenHouse. "SweeT" is what we thought. Over 150 people came to view the house and take pictures! Whoa! Thanks! We took a few, too, so I'll be posting what I can here. More are available on Facebook (ditto for all events). Our Web site will be updated shortly as well. This weeHouse PAIR, with it's black and grey exterior, window-filled walls, and soon-to-be-screened porch sits like a little piece of heaven within a gracious, tree-filled site that even has a babbling brook. The entire experience was fabulous. We also did two site visits to Andes, NY and Preston Hollow, NY ... so who knows? Maybe there'll be weeNeighbors within a year or so.

October 12, 2008 was, weather-wise and house-wise, a picture perfect day outside of Esopus, NY. Also on a lovely wooded lot, this custom weeHouse has a "tower" that makes you "one with the birdies" as you're perched wwwway! up on the mountain. Those who braved the extra-steep driveway (and there were over 100 of you!) pulled up to an epic view of the Catskills ... in glorious Autumn color. Not to be outdone, this custom weeHouse shone as well with dark walnut floors, shiny chrome fixtures, floor to ceiling windows, panorama windows, and a being-built-right-then! deck. Visitors were ever-gracious, and were celebrating birthdays, romantic wee(get-it)kend getaways from NYC, and just satisfying general curiosities. One of the many fun moments was when we realized a MINI cooper was parked right next to the weeHouse!

THANKS THANKS THANKS to the clients, their families, their friends, and the communities who were so welcoming. Also, a not-so-wee (as in HUGE!) thanks to Teragren Fine Bamboo Flooring, Panels & Veneer for their extra efforts and financial sponsorship of the floors in the Cobleskill weeHouse as well as Kohler who graciously allowed both weeHouse clients to choose the fixtures they dreamed about at the price of the weeHouse standards (which are lovely, regardless!). Both Teragren and Kohler are preferred suppliers to weeHouses everywhere.

P.S. weeHouse 3 of this weeHouse trio was just set outside of Charlottesville, VA. Details and pictures on that 'set' to be posted soon.

weeHouse at A Clean Break, Design Philadelphia 2008

2008-10-15T17:10:00.000-05:00

Cobleskill weeHouse

2008-10-02T14:02:00.004-05:00

Sa-wee-t 16 has been officially installed! The Cobleskill weeHouse (technically, closer to Carlisle, NY) was 'set' last week. Scott Ervin, Project Manager, was there to take some photos that I'm happy to share. More photos will be taken during the Open House on October 11th, 2008 from 10-5 p.m. We'll also be hosting an weeOpen House at the Esopus (technically Ulster Park) weeHouse on October 12, 2008 from 10-5.

If you're interested in coming, email betsy@weehouses.com for directions and to RSVP. Thanks!

weeWares

2008-09-29T15:30:00.004-05:00

Every once is a while, wee (okay, mainly Betsy) gets particularly happy that it's named for its size. Being able to 'play' wee word games is certainly one of those reasons. For instance:

Here's a wee friend wearing the weeCap from weeWares!

So adorable.
Okay, okay, I'll stop now.

P.S. Thanks to T+D+A!

wee be Busy!

2008-09-26T10:19:00.009-05:00

It's been crazy-busy here at Alchemy from the marketing point of view! Last weekend we participated in the first (but certainly to-be-annual) MN AIA Homes by Architects Tour, featuring the Loft Renovation done by Geoffrey Warner and Scott Ervin. It was amazing to hear all the great comments from the 425 (or so) attendees. The clients were epic and oh-so-generous with their hosting, and overall, we were happy to feature not only our work, but that of our friends, too. Scott McGlasson's (Woodsport) work is throughout the loft and got lots of oo's and ah's. NICE.

We had two weeHouses going on over the past few weeks (both built by Simplex Homes in Scranton, PA) and I'm anxiously awaiting some updated photos to post! The Esopus NY weeHouse (custom) features beautiful details from Kohler. Looking forward to a photo opp with those! The Cobleskill NY weeHouse is just 'set' and per the project manager, Scott Ervin, is being painted and plumbed-up and electrified as I type. This weeHouse is the 2X side by side pair and also features elegant, contemporary fixtures from Kohler along with an amazingly lovely "green" bamboo floor from Teragren. Both Kohler and Teragren are reliable vendors with quality, design-conscious products that are perfect complements to the weeHouse. We so appreciate working with them. Here are some photos for starters ... waiting for more.

The amazing building front of the SPECS Optical store in Minneapolis has now been completed! Some super-coolio planters were designed, cut from aluminum, and added just last week. We're hoping to have a BRIGHT IDEA party in late October to celebrate it all.

From October 16-30, the Saturn weeHouse STUDIO will be available to tour at A Clean Break, part of Design Philadelphia, 2008. Since wee will be out East, I'm hoping to have open houses at both the Cobleskill and Esopus weeHouses on October 11, 12. Confirmation to be posted and also weeMailed (so be sure to be on our list)!

As far as dogs go ... this week we've had my niece's white boxer here keeping Hazelnut company. How lucky are wee?!

A Lofty Idea—on Tour (and in the NY Times)

2008-09-04T09:43:00.002-05:00

We're pleased and thankful to announce that Alchemy's Loft Project is featured in the New York Times Home Section. Alchemy also thanks the fine team who worked with us to create this project including our gracious clients, the experienced and tenacious General Contractor, Kurt Albrecht of KA Construction, Scott Ervin of Alchemy, Scott McGlasson of Woodsport Woodcraft + Design, David Washburn of Valcucine Minneapolis, and Jim Marvy of Simply Marvy Lighting.
****************************
Alchemy on Tour!

Alchemy's Loft Project, designed by Geoffrey Warner and Scott Ervin, will be featured in the AIA Minnesota's Homes by Architects Tour in Minneapolis on September 20-21, 2008. Please join us.

Award-winning graphic designers and authors of the bestselling book "What’s Out There," Will Hopkins and Mary K. Baumann (of Hopkins Baumann Design) are a New York City couple who have recently transplanted their home and office to the renovated Whitney Lofts Building in Minneapolis (formerly the Standard Mill). Their Loft is situated in the Mill’s former turbine room and contains an office (for six) that melds seamlessly with their home.

Conceived as the designers' white on white, the space plays freely with concepts of old and new as a place—a home—for art. Tucked within is a house made from stacked timbers, lights on pulleys and rough sisal rope and tables that roll on a 60-foot-long track embedded in the floor. Experience the melding of luxury+function in the state-of-the-art Valcucine kitchen that coexists with industrial and IKEA components. See how a custom-built, 250-pound pivoting bedroom door that rotates with the push of a finger co-exists within the 2,600-square-foot living space that is replete with 19th-century steel crossbeams, heavy timbers, and stone-and-brick arches. Day dream some time away under the unifying factor of having it all pulled together by white cloud forms oozing through the gaps.

Warner’s inspiration in designing and engineering this renovation came from original black-and-white photographs archived by the Library of Congress, existing architectural elements, including brick arches dating from 1879, and some out-of-this-world phenomena from Hopkins/Baumann’s bestselling book, "What’s Out There". Project partners include David Washburn of Valcucine, Scott McGlasson of Woodsport, lighting designer Jim Marvy of Simply Marvy, the clients themselves, and contractor Kurt Albrecht, all of whom played a vital role in refurbishing existing 4-foot-thick stone-and-brick walls, customizing cabinets to accommodate overhanging duct work and industrial pipes, dynamically lighting an eclectic art collection, and creating artful yet functional furniture, all of which complements Warner’s trademark industrial style of celebrating the poetry in the transformation of everyday objects into artful elements.

Valcucine and Alchemy look forward to hosting you during this event.

For additional information on the Loft, please see our Web site's Gallery. For additional ticket information, please see: http://www.homesbyarchitects.org/

more Esopus weeHouse SET pix

2008-08-27T12:25:00.006-05:00

These pix start with the 'finished' set of the weeHouse and go backwards ...

Esopus weeHouse: ready! SET ...

2008-08-27T10:17:00.006-05:00

... and it's just about ready to be a 'go' ... but being a "go-go" in a multi-module weeHouse takes a few weeks of additional work by local contractors and craftsmen.

Pictures of the Esopus weeHouse 'set' were graciously taken by a friend who lives in the area, Lisa Hartmann (an artist by nature (see lisahartmann.com), so we knew she'd have 'the eye'). The project manager and designer, Beth Nelson, was also on hand with the owners as were the soon-to-be weeOwners of the Cobleskill weeHouse. One of the owners is an architect herself and suggested many variations to our standard weeHouse designs to create this custom weeHouse.

In the project manager's words:

"Built on a ridge top near the Catskills area of New York state, the Esopus weeHouse is a two bedroom, two bath primary residence totaling just under 1400 SF. Very much a custom weeHouse design, the house is comprised of three modules—two at ground level and one above—plus a small "bonus module" for the stairs. The floor plan and window placement were carefully conceived both to take advantage of the spectacular view and to meet the distinct needs of the client.

In addition to the customized layout, the house contains a number of other notable custom features including:

upgraded finishes
a larger than average kitchen and master bath
an extensive wrap-around deck
an integrated screend porch

Of all the custom elements, however, perhaps the most stunning is a second floor lofted library/yoga space overlooking a double-height living area. Underscoring the idea that "custom" doesn't necessarily mean "more expensive," all of these features were designed with a keen eye towards cost and budget. The modular portion of the project came in at approx. $230,000, or $165 SF."

Please keep in mind that while executing a weeHouse project, our clients also budget in the cost of land, prep including landscaping and foundation work, transportation of the modules, hook-ups, and the 'set'. Since these are incurred at local levels using local labor, prices vary greatly.

Overall it was a lovely day for a 'set' in a forest setting ... and although the wee looks a little rough around the edges now, according to the client the finishing touches are moving along just fine (although as with any home project ... it always takes longer than you think!).

Enjoy the pictures; we'll post more as we get them. Also, look for a weeMail announcement for an Open House in NY State the weekend of October 11-12. (Sign up for weeMail on our Web site: weeHouse.com.) We know how much people love to walk-a-wee!

wee ROCKS the BOAT

2008-08-08T16:56:00.005-05:00

So ... it's still summer. And it's still Friday. We had an amazing bbq on the dock, and yet something felt 'off' ... oh yeah! ... we weren't sippin' brewski's and eating our chips on WATER. With 10,000+ lakes in Minnesota (Minnie, per me), there's plenty of opportunity to float. But wee likes houses ... so what to do? Well, design a weeHouse BOAT, of course.

Here are some first drawings (you'll have to imagine the pontoon floaters underneath). We do have a manufacturer/factory partner. So if YOU would like a weeHouse BOAT, let us know. Maybe you can be the first to float-a-wee!

Meanwhile, cheers to at least four-more summer Fridays ... and for those of you who live where it's always summer, well, lucky you!

Oceanside, OR weeHouse

2008-08-05T15:03:00.000-05:00

weeHouses are being built from coast-to-coast!

Clients from Oceanside, OR were kind enough to share these pictures of their lot (pre- and post-clearing; saved the trees, cleared the brush) and their foundation progress. You can see their weeHouse drawing on our Web site (weehouse.com) under weeHouse>gallery>in progress (labeled as Tillamook) if you'd like.

The design is similar to the Cobleskill, NY weeHouse (see other foundation pictures in this Blog) in that they both started out as weeHouse PAIRS. It's exciting, however, to see how each client has made the PAIR their 'own' by adding a porch/deck/stairs ... other things that make a weeHouse "theirHouse". Lovely.

And their view! Epic.

Last Dog Days in July

2008-07-25T16:30:00.000-05:00

Hard to believe that July will be over next week. August is full of site visits for prospective weeHouses, staff vacations, and getting ready for a Fall full of travel. Alchemy will be at Design Philadelphia in mid-October (details forthcoming), we'll also be hosting two open houses in New York State (yes! VERY exciting) the weekend of October 11, 12. You'll be able to walk-a-wee outside of Albany, NY (see progress photos below) or outside of Esopus, NY. Be sure you're signed up on weeMail to get the detailed announcement we'll send in September.

Also, what's your feedback on our solar/wind options for the weeHouse? About one out of every five phone calls and emails wanted to know about off-grid, or at least grid-optional, operations for the weeHouses. We think we found a great solution in Fusion.

Another question we're often asked is "Can I move my weeHouse later if I buy land elsewhere?" Technically, for a 1x wee, the answer is "yes, you can" but it would require removing the weeHouse from a permanent foundation. Not so easy, and most likely, not too cost-effective. We note that the weeHouse is not a weeWheelie ... it really isn't mobile unless it's designed that way from the very start (see the Saturn weeHouse on our Web site). So, think of your weeHouse as a permanent home—well, at least until you want to build another one!

Speaking of permanent (not) ... this week's Dog Days photo is of Pepsi, a foster-puppy that I'm taking care of for a few weeks 'til she finds a permanent home. Of course she got to come to work one day!

weeHouse ENERGIZED

2008-07-23T19:00:00.000-05:00

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alchemy’s weeHouse now offers Fusion's add-on solar and wind Energy Kits
July 15, 2008 — MINNEAPOLIS, MN

Alchemy Architects has been creating stimulating, engaging and efficient designs for a wide audience since 1992. Their weeHouse, first produced in 2002, continues to be a design leader in contemporary modular prefab with sixteen built and four more weeHouses scheduled for Fall 2008 installation. The weeHouse “standards,” announced in early 2008, are designed with lighting and appliance features that are highly energy efficient, and are now available with add-on Energy Kits for an even greener “wee”. A typical American home uses about 700kWh per month of power. The Energy Kit alternative on the efficiently designed weeHouse demands less than 260kWh per month of power.

Created by The Fusion Companies of Baltimore, MD, each Energy Kit is scaled, by square footage, to produce enough power for everyday necessities standard in a weeHouse including lighting, refrigeration, hot water, microwave, induction stovetop—as well as televisions, stereos and computers on an intermittent basis. "A weeBit of Fusion Guidebook" offers detailed recommendations as a comprehensive homeowner guide to energy conservation techniques and successful home management of alternative energy systems. In many areas, local incentives and rebates will apply, potentially covering up to 75% of the total cost of the Kit (local installation and permit fees are additional charges). Adding Fusion’s 720W AC Energy Kit to a weeHouse STUDIO or SMALL for $16,999 keeps the total weeHouse STUDIO price to under $100,000. (See Web site for regional pricing.) Typically, the Fusion 720 produces 21.5 kwh/week of power output. This is based on a five-hour daily charging window (results may vary depending on solar insulation levels, weather patterns, shading, collector tilt, among other factors). Other Kits for the larger weeHouses include the Fusion 1440W AC Kit for $23,499 (up to 1100 SF), and the Fusion 1800W AC Kit for $27,999 (up to 1500 SF).

Each Fusion Energy Kit includes (the appropriate): high-efficiency solar panels, charge controller, battery backup bank, professional roof flush mounting hardware (tilt-mounting hardware and top-of-pole mounting hardware kits are also available if needed), battery interconnects, combiner and breakers and inverters. A local, qualified electrician installs them on-site but a Fusion representative is also present to ‘sign-off’ on the final product. Kits come with manufacturers’ warranties on product along with a one-year warranty on installation.

If a weeHouse-Fusion client wants to go completely off-grid, the Whisper 500 small wind turbine is available starting at $9,999 + local installation. This two bladed fiberglass blade incorporates the patented side furling design that optimizes output at any wind speed. A Whisper 500 keeps batteries charged and “lights-on” at all times. Assuming a 12 mph wind, a Whisper 500 will produce as much as 500 kWh/ per month—enough to power the average California home—and it maintains an exclusive 5-yr. warranty.

Partners:
Alchemy LLC, 856 Raymond Ave., Suite G, St. Paul, MN 55114, (P): 651-647-6650; Web site: www.weeHouse.com
The Fusion Companies, Fusion Modular, P.O. Box 17598, #64145, Baltimore, MD 21297, (P): 866-981-9191

ABOUT ALCHEMY LLC
www.alchemyarch.com
St. Paul, MN — Established in 1992, Alchemy Architects’ mission is to make stimulating, engaging, and efficient design accessible and affordable for a wide audience. Our distinctive hands-on approach to architecture and design combines
a playful design process, collaborative relationships with clients, and partnerships with builders and fabricators, to create
a harmonious blend of site, building, and community. With sustainable practices as a mainstay of our daily work,
Alchemy utilizes recycling and reuse along with building strategies that reduce waste. Our multidisciplinary team draws inspiration from art, literature, history, and leading creative thinkers to create alternative and atypical project solutions. Alchemy’s innovation on the weeHouse prefab system and “tightwad panache” renovations has gained recognition
on an international scale.
Contact: Betsy Gabler, 651-647-6650
Email: betsy@alchemyarch.com

ABOUT THE FUSION COMPANIES AND FUSION MODULAR
www.fusionmodular.com
Baltimore, MD — Fusion endeavors to design & build the most eco-friendly homes on the planet and make these homes available to everyone. We offer designs ranging from traditional to modern - building both affordable and extremely high-end custom homes. We are a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and build LEED Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum homes. We are also members of the National Association of Home Builders and build NAHB Certified Green Homes. Our
modular homes are 100% constructed by a Certified Energy Star Partner that can also offer Energy Star Qualified Homes. Our team consists of professional architects specializing in sustainable building practices, LEED Accredited Professionals,
NAHB Certified Green Professionals, Energy Star Partners and even Eco-Brokers.

Contact: Wes Sims, President, 866-981-9191
Email: wes@fusionmodular.com

Hot Fun in the Sun

2008-07-18T15:26:00.000-05:00

This week was busy for the Alchemy staff. We received our first ever dental office commission which brings with it all kinds of interesting design challenges including (by priority of the Alchemists):
1. SOUND control (who wants to hear that drill?)
2. INTERESTING CEILINGS (after all, what'cha lookin' at while you're in that chair, anyhow?)
3. BUDGET (the equipment ain't cheap)

We're also working on a new prospective weeHouse-on-a-rooftop project for Brooklyn, NY. And having an amazing time managing 3 weeHouses 'on-the-line' at our various factory partners. We're also hot-to-trot for some partnership ideas we're getting from The Fusion Companies. They've put together solar 'kits' for each size weeHouse. These'd be optional accessories for the wee, but who doesn't love a good accessory? Especially when it's new, affordable, and well, helps you stay 'hot'?

Geoffrey Warner attended the MoMA's Opening Night for the Home Delivery prefab show. It was a wonderful night to be an architect (well, most nights are) and more-than-just-interesting to be able to see what others are thinking about for the future of prefab.

We were very sad to say good-bye to Siena (see previous Dog Days of Summer post). After 14+ years of being the primary AlchePup, she was too worn out to go further. ¡Ciao! Bella Siena.

For a breather in the Dog Days posts, thanks to the owners who are also graciously gifting us with photos of their weeHouse progress, we're pleased to have you meet a future weeHouse inhabitant:

Greetings from Katahdin, a MaineCoonCat named after Mount Katahdin, the highest mountain in Maine. Called Kat-ah-din by people local to the peak and by the Penobscot Indians, the term means "The Greatest Mountain". Katahdin does live up to its name but generally spends most days in wee spaces like this ... and expects to be perr-fectly happy in my new weeHouse this Fall.

Door Frames In!

2008-07-14T10:04:00.000-05:00

Two more pictures documenting the foundation build for one of our upstate NY weeHouses. I love how, when the foundation is finished, you really understand the footprint of the house. For more pictures, scroll below.

Hot Dog Paddling

2008-07-11T10:24:00.000-05:00

It's hot here today ... as in 90+ degrees! Guess that's to be expected during the dog days of summer, but since it's sometimes minus 20 in the winter, too, it can freak a body out. Recently, everyone's favorite little white dog, Rocketdog, took the plunge with Scott in, of all places, Lake Superior. Hot Dog, Cool Water. Great way to spend a summer day!

We're also working on a pool house that I thought you might like to see. More details to come, but meanwhile, feel free to dream (along with us) on owning one of your own someday!

Alchemist At Large!

2008-07-02T23:37:00.000-05:00

Yes, that's me! Just a few days ago, I was oh-so-casually reclined against some pretty jaw-dropping Incan masonry in el Peru glorioso. (Note the 'weeCasa es suCasa' tshirt.) Sigh. But I guess if a girl must return from the vacation of her nerdy-architect dreams, serving up weeHouses is a pretty good gig to come back to!

a week of wee

2008-06-27T12:12:00.000-05:00

Every Tuesday we have a meeting to go over current weeHouse projects. We call it a weeCap (yeah, I know, we stretch that 'wee' word, don't wee?). I think the best part is probably the bagels, but the next best is getting updates on where our clients 'are' with their process:

* the Cobleskill, NY weeHouse now has its foundation, and the 'set' is 'set' for mid-August (there might be delays, but hey! it's a date)

* the Esopus, NY weeHouse is being fabricated as I type, and is scheduled to be 'set' in late July (again, might change...)

* the near Oceanside, OR weeHouse is also in the middle of fabrication and is happening this late summer/Fall

and we anticipate a 'set' in the area of Dundee, NY in 2008 as well.

You can see pictures of these homes on the Web site under Genuine weeHouses > Gallery > In Progress. We traditionally name the weeHouses after their geographic location, but sometimes we actually get clever and come up with something different. When you build your own weeHouse, feel free to weigh-in on that.

Other news is that the build-a-wee section of the site IS, honestly, close to 'being there'. We have high hopes that it'll be as coolio as the build-a-Mini Cooper site! Our goal is to get it done by mid- to late-July. Thanks for your patience.

That's about it for this week ... with the exception of the DOG DAYS OF SUMMER post.

Attached is a new picture of the FIRST AlchePup: Siena. Named after the lovely Italian city, she's a bone-i-fied member of doggie-AARP at 14 (human years). Clearly she has the Italian/Sophia Loren beauty and longevity secrets down. We all adore her, and thank you for understanding when you hear her barking (rather than us) on the phone as you call in.

Dog Days of Summer

2008-06-20T16:35:00.000-05:00

Summer Fridays at Alchemy = brats-on-a-dock (brats as in bratwurst, not as in ill-mannered people)! Alchemists and their friends (we often have guests for the bbq) love brats and chips and potato salads of all sorts (and chocolate, but you'll have to wait for a Beth-post on that). Alchepups love the thrill-of-the-spill(s) that inevitably happen!

Since the whole day tends to get a little whacky, I thought we'd call summer Fridays "Dog Days" here at the Alchemy Blogspot. Hazelnut will start it all out (seen here in her weeTee), but I'm sure Siena, Max, and everyone's favorite (good thing dogs can't read) Rocketdog! will have their 15 minutes of fame, too.

Since there are no "purrfect" Alchemists, you'll have to help us out. Have a pix of a weefee(line)? Send it to me at info@alchemyarch.com and I'll see if I can't get the dogs to share the limelight. Extra points if they're in a weeHouse, but of course.

Cheers to your weekend!

weeHouse in upstate New York

2008-06-18T10:09:00.001-05:00

June 27: new pictures of the foundation going in ... thanks to the weeHouse owners!

------------------------------------------------------------------

Although the design and planning has been going on for a while, NOW! is the time for the foundation preparation for a standard weeHouse PAIR to be placed about 45 miles west of Albany, near Cobleskill, NY. It's a cool project for us (Scott is the Project Manager) for a variety of reasons: great clients, lovely site, sensitive design and detail planning, and we also have a weeHouse PAIR being built for the Oceanside, OR area this Fall (Beth is the Project Manager). In other words, weeHouses from coast-to-coast!

The clients have graciously provided these 'prep' photos, and will be updating us along the way. As they do, we'll keep you posted. We respect our client's privacy, and will provide updates only that they're comfortable with. We trust you'll understand.

Meanwhile, here are some stats that you might be interested in:
* financing is being done by a local bank
* process started with Alchemy in October 2007; site work (client started from scratch which means even putting in their own septic and well systems) and preliminary design happened throughout the winter of 2007-2008
* site work started in Spring 2008
* house is due to be 'set' in Fall 2008
* floor plan follows the weeHouse side x side PAIR that has two bedrooms and one bath; client added screen porch (great idea!) using Alchemy's additional design services and also worked with their general contractor to customize a walk-in basement; another great upgrade they opted for is in-floor heat (which eliminates forced air and provides economic savings in the long run)
* total square footage (including exterior deck and porch) = 1250
* client maintaining some weeHouse standard options featuring Andersen windows, Kohler fixtures, Teragren bamboo flooring, and Bosch appliances (dishwasher, cooktop, oven) along with other products listed in our specs
* (06/08): price for weeHouse PAIR in NY is listed at $189K; this house with additional design options/fees is still coming in at under $200K (about $160/SF); additional costs include site work, basement, transportation, and set/hook-up fees (many of these are priced differently by region)

More later!

NEW! project completed in Minneapolis

2008-06-16T16:36:00.000-05:00

Sometimes our name, Alchemy, resonates perfectly with a project we do. This recent completed project explains that. Geoffrey Warner and Alchemy sought to evoke a celebration of optics, transparency and “seeing differently” as impetuses behind the optical shop façade treatment. A crystalline envelope of 5/8” thick greenhouse polycarbonate grows out of the storefront openings. The skin is manipulated to form offset and distorted frames around the existing windows to bring together ideas of frame and optics. The polycarbonate is all self-supporting.

Design work was undertaken using 3-d computer modeling then flattened, allowing for efficient model and physical production with a CNC router. Instead of working drawings, a perfect scale model of the skin was used as a 3-d guide to installation, with all pieces numbered in small and full scales. Custom translucent urethane straps were cut to provide a continuous “stitched” seam at the edges. The aluminum sign boxes were laser-cut and welded to contain the store identity. Very low-energy LED lights color-phase in and out to illuminate the façade.

Enjoy the view!

Design and Fabrication: Alchemy Architects - Geoffrey Warner, Scott Ervin, Khanh Nguyen, Blake Lloya
Graphic Design + Identity: Werner Designwerks
Lighting Design: Jim Marvy
Panel Fabrication: Atomic Sheetmetal
Signage Lettering: Archetype Signs
Installation: K-A Construction and Alchemy
SPECS Optical is owned by John Oliva and Nancy Krant, and is located at 2204 Hennepin Ave. in Minneapolis (just off of Franklin and Hennepin, near the Uptown neighborhood)

Ever see this cool "video" of a weeHouse set?

2008-06-12T15:48:00.000-05:00

This "video" is actually a series of photographs taken during the Linden Hills (Minneapolis) not-so-weeHouse 'set' last Fall. I like it because you see a variety of stages of a modular, prefab house ... the 'boxes' themselves, the exterior partial finish (final siding details added on-site), and the interior shots of what those 'seams' look like before a contractor/builder tapes and drywalls them 'up' to look smooth and beautiful. You also get an idea of how duct work and electrical is integrated into the walls. Not exactly an artful piece (!), hopefully you'll enjoy seeing some weeDetails this way.

NEW! not-so-weeHouse in PA

2008-06-12T15:19:00.000-05:00

Owners of the Johnson Creek weeHouse have graciously provided some great new pictures of their 4 box weeHouse in Pennsylvania. Please go to our Web site to see the updated shots that include some lovely interiors.

P.S. If for some reason the link won't work for you (you need to have Flash on your computer), try entering the following URL in your browser:
http://weehouse.com/flash/SFWA_index.html#/weehouses/johnsoncreek/9/

or!

go to weehouse.com>genuine weeHouse>gallery>weeHouses>[4th pix from the left, top row]

If It's Hip, It's Here BLOG 'hit' for the weeHouse

2008-06-10T11:52:00.000-05:00

Thank you, Laura Sweet, Blogger!

Prefab in Chicago

2008-06-06T09:28:00.000-05:00

Happy to share this link:

www.msichicago.org/whats-here/exhibits/smart-home

about prefab in the Midwest with you. It's great to see MKD team-up with the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry!

weeWares FIRST

2008-06-05T17:23:00.000-05:00

Excitment! First purchase from the weeWare section of weehouse.com happened this week. Here's a picture of Hazelnut, one of the AlchePups, and Betsy, Chief Propagandist, getting ready to mail weeHouse's Disingenuous Doorbell to the Netherlands. (Hazel always goes with to the Post Office ... it's a favorite outing.)

Go Europa!

Walker on the Green ... Artist Inspired Mini-Golf

2008-06-05T14:55:00.001-05:00

Alchemists Geoffrey Warner and Blake Loya, with help from Khanh Nguyen and other Alchemists, provided a fabulous hole of mini-golf for the Walker Art Center's Walker on the Green Summer 2008 event. Below are pix from the artists' reception night. Wish you were there! Please visit the Walker Art Center Site: http://calendar.walkerart.org/canopy.wac?id=4403 for more details! The course is open all summer long.

-Betsy

Prefab at the MOMA ... coming soon!

2008-06-04T12:17:00.000-05:00

Alchemy is very excited that prefab architecture will be featured at the MOMA in NYC this summer/fall (mid-July-October). We all hope to make the trek from the Minnie to the Big Apple to see it ... but meanwhile, thought you'd all enjoy this link to the Web site. You can see the five prefabs in various stages of build ... and get a sneak-peak at what goes into some prefabs. Although the "wee" isn't featured there, there will be two "wee's" coming to upstate NY this Fall as well. We'll keep you posted on the see-a-wee status as we are planning to have a lovely Open House to celebrate our two clients!

Here's the link:
http://www.moma.org/exhibitions/exhibitions.php?id=5476#events

Enjoy!
-Betsy

It's been a while ...

2008-06-02T20:10:00.000-05:00

Admittedly, when we set up this blog, we had high hopes for weekly, if not daily, postings. *SIGH* Best laid plans ... We have been updating the weeHouse's Facebook page ... that's pretty cool. Also, we have updated our Web site with new photographs, weeWares, and pricing!

And we now will be more intentional (promise) about keeping weeHouse and Alchemy LLC fans up-to-date here.

Also, we so would like to hear from you ...
please, send us your comments, your inquiries, and your thoughts on the wee-wide-world.

We look forward to a more active dialog.

Betsy Gabler, Propagandist(ette) at Large
and the Alchemists: Geoffrey, Scott, Beth, Bryan, and Khanh
oh, and the AlchePups: Siena, Hazelnut, Rocket Dog, and Max

One good turn deserves another

2008-01-17T17:59:00.000-06:00

I'm only a mild mannered bloggin' kind of guy. So it struck me rather funny and wonderfully coincidental that I should be out surveying the town (hitting up my favorite blogs) when I see the weeHouse right there:

http://archidose.blogspot.com/2008/01/lots-o-links.html

So I'm returning the favor and endorsement. For those who don't know, or need it sorted out a bit, weeHouse is an Alchemy idea, Alchemy does the weeHouse.

2007-12-26T21:57:00.000-06:00

Don't you think survivors from Hurricane Katrina would rather have a Home for Christmas than a gun?

http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/12/26/katrina.guns.ap/index.html

I think the NRA is having a problem tracking down the gun owners because there are probably a number without a steady job, without a permanent address. As a nation, we should examine our rights. I'm not saying here that we ought to dismantle Amendment #2, but there is no amendment assuring citizens humane shelter. Maybe our priorities are all out of whack.

weeHouse for Large Gathering

2007-12-20T15:02:00.000-06:00

The cold and the dark didn't manage to scare off too many of the local crowd as the latest model of the weeHouse opens its doors to the curious. Conversation, food, wine and ambiance entertain total strangers for an enchanting evening in Linden Hills. Enjoy the image. Someone had to stand in the cold (without shivering) and take this steady night shot.

2007 Holiday Open House

2007-12-17T15:40:00.000-06:00

A huge THANKS (can it get any bigger than that?) to the pals who made the 2007 not-so-weeHouse Open House oh-so-fab! Here are some pictures of the fun ...

I'm In!

2007-12-13T16:36:00.001-06:00

Lets Party!

wee's for ALL

2007-12-13T12:55:00.000-06:00

I am really looking forward to the day that Alchemy designs+builds a weeWoof dog house!