Daybreak Cohousing gets its first art!

[caption id="attachment_3664" align="aligncenter" width="687" caption="Daybreak's mural"][/caption] When we designed Daybreak Cohousing, the residents wanted to incorporate some art on the buildings.  However, as the project progressed, there was neither time or budget to create the pieces prior to move in so it was decided to wait until the residents moved in.  The railing system was designed to allow for replacement of wire mesh with art panels.  A concrete wall at the terrace stood ready to receive a mural or artwork.  Blocking was placed at key points on the building facades to receive large hanging pieces – these were structurally reinforced and fully flashed to integrate with the exterior siding. [Then] Daybreak resident and graphic artist Maura Jess conceived and designed the mural inspired by two pottery pieces created by fellow Daybreak resident and ceramic artist Scot Cameron-Bell. Scot later joined the project and transferred the design outline to the wall and the two artists then worked closely with other residents to paint the image over a 2-week period, Scot applying the final artistic touches.. So, after almost 2 years the first piece has been installed!  Click here to see photos of the process, including the inspiration for the piece.

Schemata welcomes Kristin Wells

Its a funny thing when your client becomes an employee.

Kristin Wells hired Schemata Workshop 4 years ago to design her future home as a representative of Daybreak Cohousing.  Over that time, she got to know us really well.  And likewise, we got to know her really well.   We have joked that the Owner/Architect/Contractor team was a bit of a dream team, and when we have talked about our collaborative efforts during public prensentations, a love fest inevitably ensued.  We had a fabulous collaboration with B&G Builders - we were doing Integrated Project Delivery before AIA had finished their formal documentation of it.

Although the 30-unit cohousing community was completed in September of last year, we have managed to visit Kristin at Daybreak monthly for various meetings, grand openings, and weekend visits. 

So when Kristin began looking for a new job, it seemed natural for us to formalize the collaborative relationship and have her join our team.  It's our turn to hire her.  Kristin will be our ears and eyes in Portland, building on her contacts in the affordable housing  community and marketing our expertise in multifamily projects as well as community buildings. 

Welcome Kristin!