TTS Granite shares information about Natural and engineered stones

At TTS Granite, we provide a vast array of natural and engineered stones.  We thought we would take a quick minute to share with you some of the differences and recommended uses: Granite is the most popular natural stone used for kitchens, bathrooms, bars, fireplaces because of the variety of colors and eye-catching designs.  Granite is very durable against stains, heat, and scratching. Marble is a natural stone that has a classic and timeless beauty. Most associate marble with the traditional white marble but marble also comes in numerous colors.  A core feature of marble is the veining.  Marble is sensitive due to a high level of calcium.  Etching can happen easily when acidic liquid or foods come in contact.  Soapstone is a natural stone that contains a high amount of talc and can feel silky to the touch.  Due to the components, soapstone has the ability to absorb and distribute the heat which makes it a good choice for fireplace surrounds. While soapstone can scratch, customers are increasingly using it in the kitchen.  With professional assistance, most scratches can be removed bringing soapstone back to the original beauty. Limestone is a porous stone that can be found in neutral colors that can give your home a more rustic feel. Like the performance of marble, limestone does etch and it reacts to acidic liquid and foods. Travertine has a sophisticated smooth look with small holes in the material caused by carbon dioxide evasion.  Travertine is very porous, does etch, stain and reacts to acidic liquids or foods.  The most common application for travertine is for backsplashes, fireplace panels and showers. Onyx is unique in that it allows light through the stone. As a result, onyx can be used for dramatic and creative custom designs to be back-lit for a very interesting appeal.  Onyx does etch when acidic liquids or foods come in contact. Quartzite is a natural stone that appears similar to marble.  Quartzite is rare and extremely hard natural stone.  In the marketplace when you hear "quartz" it is most commonly referencing man-made engineered quartz.   Engineered Quartz is comprised of approximately 93% of natural quartz, resins and pigments. Engineered quartz is for customers that prefer a more consistent pattern or pattern in stone design.  Engineered quartz will not stain but will scratch and react to heat   TTS Granite works with only the best in the market: Ceasarstone, Hanstone, Silestone and LG Viatera to name a few.

Muted Color Schemes

http://www.mstoneandtile.com/design-trends/muted-color-schemes-interior-design/

Happy New Year....and updated Illinois Energy Codes!

Everyone at Michael Buss Architects, Ltd. would like to extend our best wishes for a safe and happy New Year's holiday, may 2013 bring everyone good health and prosperity! 

The New Year will also usher in updated codes and regulations that will apply to the majority of all projects for 2013!   The 2012 State of Illinois Energy Conservation Code (The Energy Efficient Building Act), mandated by state law, will be updated from the 2009 IECC to the latest published edition of the 2012 IECC.  Michael Buss Architects has reviewed this new edition and its revisions and welcome you to contact us should you have any questions regarding application & compliance as you prepare for future projects in the coming year.

Please feel free visit the State of Illinois link below to read more about the Illinois Energy Conservation Code and law for Residential & Commercial Buildings (applies to new construction and remodeling)

http://www.ildceo.net/dceo/Bureaus/Energy_Recycling/IECC.htm

MBA, Ltd. to sponsor 61st Annual HInsdale Home tour

Michael Buss Architects, Ltd is proud to be a sponsor of the 61st Annual Scholarship Home Tour on September 30th, 2012.

Visit us at 618 N. Washington St., Hinsdale.
We Thank the Legan’s who have so graciously agreed to open their home for the tour.

The 2012 Home Tour is sponsored by the Hinsdale/Oak Brook Area branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). Proceeds go directly to college scholarships for outstanding young women from High School, to adult women returning to college, and to the national AAUW Education Fund for women pursuing post-graduate degrees. Many of these adult women are the sole-support of their families, and could not accomplish their educational goals without the aid of scholarships.

For ticket or information about this home tour call 630-789-6173!

Little details that aren’t missed in quality construction!

As the architect  we spec many details in the construction documents.  Thank you Paddy for pointing out an excellent example of the use of sill tape as Illinois will be updating from the 2009 IECC energy codes to the latest published 2012 edition.

“Over the last 20-30 years sealing windows properly against air and water has become very important for energy costs and to protect against  rot. Gerry's framing crew did an excellent job on taping Tyvek seams and also taping the windows and doors properly. My compliments to his crew - it is extremely helpful to the industry and most importantly - our customers!” - Paddy Noone, Shillings Lumber

Michael Buss Architects, Ltd. continually reviews the codes and attends continuing education seminars.  Contact Michael Buss Architects, Ltd. today for information on how these standards and codes may affect design and construction your next project.

Testimonial Andrea and Ken, Lagrange, Il

As we walk around our house, we can see the things we wanted in a floorplan - the kitchen island, the extra door into the laundry room - but we can also see where Mike helped us come up with something better than what we originally wanted - the breakfast nook, the master bath. We also look at our hallways and remember him looking at some floorplans we found on the Internet and explaining what features would make the house more expensive to build. From the very start, he had it in mind to draw the best house for our budget.   
Andrea and Ken, Lagrange, Il

Thank you Andrea and Ken,  it was great working with you and your parents on their home next door!. MB

Testimonial Michael and Michelle, Homer Glen, Il Michael Buss Architects, Ltd.

When we decided to design and build our custom home in 2010, we met with several architects to determine the best fit.  We chose Michael Buss because he provided a different approach and blend of ideas that peaked our interest.  He was concerned about designing a home that would suit the living habits and compatibility of us as a couple.  As we worked through the design process, Michael asked many questions to determine the most suitable layout that would fit our current and future family’s needs.  He was also able to incorporate our preferences for placement of rooms based on daily living and entertaining purposes.  Michael has a good sense of humor, is very patient and is exceptionally talented.  We are extremely happy with the finished product and feel that all of our goals were met through working with Michael Buss on the design of our home.  We would highly recommend him to anyone who is embarking on this incredible journey of creating your dream house.    Michael and Michelle, Homer Glen

Thank you Michael and Michelle,  we have to visit you in spring to photograph your completed home!

Thanks Dave at Streamline Construction Group for sharing this picture.

It's A Wonderful Life

http://hookedonhouses.net/2011/12/19/its-a-wonderful-life-george-and-mary-baileys-drafty-old-house-in-bedford-falls/