Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1496538
principles underlying a lot of historic buildings, they have a built-in understanding of what's worth preserving and what new elements can achieve the same effect." In return, Blue Sound Construction offers a high level of skill, craft, and cost controls that allow them to implement specific designs and revise as needed. But what sets them apart, says Courtenay's husband, Principal and Co-founder Benjamin, is their abiding appreciation for classic homes. "We're deeply sensitive to the charm of historic homes and want to do right by them. But we're also realistic about pricing and happy to offer practical advice when the approach is collaborative. Clients who are clear about their values upfront will ultimately drive what we are able to do for them." Evergreen Features and Seismic Shifts As times change, so do building standards. Many features we take for granted these days weren't even an afterthought in 1920. As a Built Green member, Blue Sound Construction prioritizes new sustainable building practices, but they try to balance the latest practices with the original spirit of the place. Sometimes preserving that spirit is also the greenest approach. Says Benjamin, "We challenge the common idea that disposing with old, single pane windows—which often have a lot of charm, inherent value, and irreplaceability—represents huge energy savings." By sealing leaks, applying fresh weatherstripping, repairing the glazing, and swapping components, "the insulative difference between an old window and a new double- paned windows is minimal." Not only that, but windows tuned up with high-quality materials can "outlast a replacement window. "We think preservation and beauty are probably the most neglected topics when it comes to environmental impact," says Benjamin. "A beautiful building is unlikely to be torn down over the PHOTO: MIRANDA ESTES PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO: ALEX HAYDEN PHOTOS FACING PAGE Top: A handsomely restored washroom in a Foursquare in Queen Anne, by Blue Sound Construction. Middle: Blue Sound Construction modernized this Capitol Hill Foursquare's interior and restored its deteriorating front deck to its former glory. Bottom: Interior space in Blue Sound Construction's Queen Anne Foursquare project. PHOTOS THIS PAGE Below: Historical transom windows and ceiling beams in Blue Sound Construction's Blue Ridge Mid- Century Modern. Bottom left: A spacious, light-soaked living and entertaining space in the Magnolia Tudor (Blue Sound Construction). Bottom right: Gorgeous bathroom in JM Bogan's Modern Victorian. 27 SPRING 2023 | master BUILDER