In every issue you'll find...

Expert insights on techniques and principles
Unbiased tool reviews
Step-by-step details to master the job
Field-tested advice and know-how

Join
Log In

Mela Breen

Mela Breen, LEED AP, is the co-founder and lead designer at Atmosphere Design Build, a small northern California firm focused on handcrafted, high performance buildings.

Start With a Steel Deck

July 11, 2018

Atop the foundation of steel and concrete is a metal pan deck supporting a 4-in. poured-concrete slab.
Footings Are Dug

July 9, 2018

The big excavator has done its job.
Moving Bedrock: The Egg Drop

July 9, 2018

If we can't dig it out, we've got to break it up somehow.
Supersize Me: The Cat 330

July 9, 2018

Big rocks require big machines.
Encountering the Batholith

July 9, 2018

Just how rocky is this site?
Efficient, Strong Framing

July 6, 2018

California 2018: A powerful emphasis on advanced framing techniques for a passive house.
The Ultimate Modern Home

July 6, 2018

California 2018: High design and high performance in the Sierra foothills.