Project Update: George’s Flowers Progress is Blooming!

Project Update: George’s Flowers Progress is Blooming!

by | Jul 21, 2026 | architecture, community, Not used, project update, Roanoke, Roanoke Architect

Project Update in Roanoke: George’s Flowers is Blooming!

We are really excited to see the progress taking shape at George’s Flowers near Tanglewood Mall. The existing building, which housed Audiotronics did not represent the innovative brand of George’s Flowers, so we jumped at the opportunity when he asked us to design a solution. The building, which was built with few windows to the outside, is being opened up to allow in the light, and so we can see all the cool things inside that George’s will create.

The interior spaces are being completely reworked to make this a functional and FUN place to work and shop. The display space will allow for even more must-have items to be displayed. The new coolers will keep the floral arrangements crisp and looking fresh. This is a straightforward commercial renovation that we hope will grab the attention of all who drive by, especially anyone who needs to grab some flowers on their way home from work!

This project is a great example of why you need an architect for your commercial renovation project. We have spent time listening to our client’s goals and working with the contractor and suppliers to make sure it all fits inside the existing building. The coordination with HVAC, plumbing, cooler suppliers, and the contractor has been key to keeping the project moving on a fast timeline so there is little downtime for this commercial business. We are maximizing the opportunities that the existing shell building provided and adapting it so it meets the image and reputation of this amazing business. Our integrated design approach that invites in the contractor team has reduced the timeline and questions during the build, which saves our client money and maximizes the contractor’s profit potential.

Stay tuned for more images of this conversion in Roanoke!

Project Update: George’s Flowers in Roanoke is Now Under Construction!

Project Update: George’s Flowers in Roanoke is Now Under Construction!

by | Jul 10, 2026 | architecture, community, project update, Roanoke, Roanoke Architect

George’s Flowers is now under construction! 

Blog by: Hannah Cundiff

Growing up in the Roanoke Valley, there was really only one florist shop that you’d see: George’s Flowers. Since 1981, they have served the area, delivering to many surrounding cities such as Danville, Moneta, Salem, Hollins and more. Being a Roanoke native, I have driven past their original location a countless number of times. George’s is a small but iconic business in the Valley and is finally getting the upgrade they deserve. But why are they relocating?

The former location on Franklin Road neighbored the Roanoke River. What people may not know is that the area is prone to flooding, and George’s was unfortunately affected by these recurring floods. This created ongoing challenges for them, and the move to Ogden Road became the ultimate solution.

The business will soon be moving into the former Audiotronics building on Ogden Road. Our part in the process was to design the renewed space to fit George’s Flowers perfectly. Overall, the move is perfect for them, as it gets them out of the flood zone, and into a more business-dense area of the city.

As George’s Flowers gets ready to bloom in their new spot, there’s a real sense of anticipation in Roanoke. This move means not just a bigger and better space for creativity and beauty to flourish, but a bigger and better space that will also better serve their community. Moving to such a lively area in the the city is going to amazing for their business and we are so excited to see the final pieces come together for them!

To learn more about the project and move, visit these links:

George’s Flowers Website

The Roanoker Magazine 

WDBJ 7

WSLS 10

 

Welcome to the Team, Calvin!

Welcome to the Team, Calvin!

by | May 28, 2026 | architecture, Charles Hendricks, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Intern, Mentorship, team

We are excited to announce that Calvin Bixler has joined the Gaines Group Architects team as our newest intern! Calvin is eager to jump in and support the firm across a variety of projects as he begins his professional journey in the design field.

Academic Foundations

Calvin comes to us with a strong academic background, having completed his first year of studies at Princeton University. As he works toward his degree, he is looking forward to gaining hands-on experience and holding his first official position in his chosen career field.

Beyond the Studio

When he isn’t assisting the firm, Calvin stays busy with an impressive array of technical hobbies. He is currently in the middle of a major mechanical project: converting a 1984 Pontiac Fiero from an internal combustion engine to a fully electric drivetrain. When he isn’t under the hood of a car, he enjoys playing single-player video games, particularly Minecraft.

Getting to Know Calvin

  • First Job: Calvin’s work history began at the EMU dining hall, where he worked in the dish room and served meals.

  • Favorite Characteristic: He takes great pride in his strong work ethic, a trait that makes him a fantastic addition to our team.

  • Furry Friends: Calvin is a cat lover and has a long-haired black cat named Bear.

  • Pop Culture Pick: If there is one show you can find him watching on repeat, it is Game of Thrones.

Please join us in giving Calvin a warm welcome to the team!

Welcome to the Team, Hannah!

Welcome to the Team, Hannah!

by | May 28, 2026 | architecture, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Intern, Mentorship, team

We are delighted to introduce the newest member of our design family, Hannah Cundiff! Hannah joins us as an Intern, bringing a passion for art and a fresh perspective to our studio!

A Passion for Design

Hannah’s journey into the world of design was sparked at a young age while watching HGTV. This early exposure, combined with a lifelong interest in art, fueled her desire to create beautiful and functional spaces for people to enjoy. Currently a rising senior at James Madison University (JMU) pursuing a BFA in Architectural Design, Hannah is eager to dive into the professional world and learn everything that architecture offices have to offer. She is particularly focused on strengthening her digital skills and gaining experience working directly with clients as she prepares for her senior thesis.

Roots in Roanoke

Hannah calls Roanoke, Virginia home. She is a proud local who enjoys sharing fun facts about her hometown—did you know the iconic star on Mill Mountain stands 88 feet tall? Her path to architecture also includes a background in the service industry; her very first job was as a Sales Associate at Rack Room Shoes.

Off the Clock

When she isn’t in the studio or the classroom, Hannah enjoys a variety of hobbies to unwind. You can often find her playing video games like Animal Crossing or Minecraft, reading, or hanging out with her roommates. She is also a fan of Superstore, Harry Potter, and The Hunger Games.

Hannah is very family-oriented and loves spending time with her mom, dad, and little brother.

Fun Facts & Accomplishments

  • A Major Milestone: Hannah is incredibly proud of getting into JMU and the ARCD (Architectural Design) program.

  • Childhood Ambition: Before she set her sights on architecture, Hannah dreamt of becoming an art teacher.

  • Hidden Talents: Most people don’t know that Hannah was in colorguard for six years!

  • The Adventurous Side: Back in 8th grade, Hannah showed her adventurous spirit by climbing a 50-foot rock wall on the side of a mountain.

We are so excited to have Hannah join us for this small part of her architecture journey!

When the Rain Comes In: How to Protect Your Home from Flooding and Water Damage

When the Rain Comes In: How to Protect Your Home from Flooding and Water Damage

by | May 27, 2026 | architecture, resources

Heavy rain can turn a peaceful storm into a homeowner’s nightmare. Whether it’s water pooling around the foundation, a leaking basement, or flooding caused by overwhelmed drainage systems, moisture intrusion can quickly lead to structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.

While no home is completely immune to severe weather, thoughtful planning, preventative maintenance, and resilient design strategies can significantly reduce the risk of water damage.

Protect Vulnerable Areas Inside the Home

Basements and Crawlspaces

Basements are particularly vulnerable during prolonged rainfall. Warning signs of moisture issues may include:

  • Damp or musty odors
  • Water stains on walls or flooring
  • Cracks in foundation walls
  • Increased indoor humidity

Installing sump pumps, vapor barriers, or waterproofing systems may help reduce future risk, especially in older homes.

Doors, Windows, and Roofing

Wind-driven rain can expose weaknesses in a building envelope. Inspect:

  • Window and door seals
  • Roof flashing
  • Shingles and roof penetrations
  • Exterior caulking and siding joints

Small openings can become major sources of moisture intrusion over time.

What to Do If Water Enters Your Home

If flooding or water intrusion occurs, acting quickly matters.

  1. Prioritize safety first — avoid standing water near electrical systems.
  2. Stop the source if possible — whether it’s drainage overflow, a roof leak, or groundwater entry.
  3. Remove water quickly — use pumps, wet vacs, or professional mitigation services.
  4. Dry materials thoroughly — moisture trapped in walls, flooring, or insulation can lead to mold within 24–48 hours.
  5. Document damage for insurance purposes.

Even minor water events deserve attention. Hidden moisture can compromise materials long after surfaces appear dry.

Designing for Resilience

As weather patterns continue to bring more intense rainfall events, resilient home design is becoming increasingly important.

Thoughtful strategies—such as improved grading, elevated materials, durable exterior assemblies, and smarter stormwater management—can help homes better withstand heavy weather while protecting long-term investment.

The best time to address water issues is before the next storm arrives.

Need Help Evaluating Water Concerns Around Your Home?

Whether you are planning a renovation, addressing recurring moisture problems, or designing for long-term resilience, working with a team that understands both architecture and building performance can make all the difference.

May Series: Anatomy of a Custom Home

May Series: Anatomy of a Custom Home

by | May 21, 2026 | architecture, Charlottesville, Custom Home, Harrisonburg Architect, Interior Design, resources, Roanoke Architect

Anatomy of a Custom Home: How design Emerges from Land, Process, and Detail

Every custom home begins long before a line is drawn. It begins with its slope, light, edges, and constraints and evolves through a sequence of decisions that gradually transform raw site conditions into a fully realized place of living.

This May series, Anatomy of a Custom Home, breaks that journey into its essential stages. Rather than treating design as a single act, it reveals it as a layered process where each step informs the next, and every detail carries forward the logic of what came before.

The Site: Where Everything Begins

The land is never neutral. It dictates orientation, frames views, suggests circulation, and sets the emotional tone of the home. Before form or style, we study how the site behaves, how it receives light, how it drains, how it opens or resists. The design begins by listening.

Concept Sketching: Where Ideas Begin to Take Shape

Early sketches are less about precision and more about interpretation. They translate site conditions into spatial ideas: massings, thresholds, voids, and relationships. This is where intuition meets analysis, and where the first version of “home” begins to emerge.

Flow & Function: Floor Plan Logic

A strong home is organized around how life actually moves. Floor plan logic establishes hierarchy, adjacency, and rhythm. Public and private zones are clarified, circulation becomes intentional, and spaces begin to support daily rituals rather than interrupt them.

Windows & Orientation: A Natural Light Strategy

Light is one of the most powerful design materials. Window placement and orientation determine not only how a home looks, but how it feels throughout the day. We design with sun paths in mind, capturing warmth, controlling glare, and shaping the atmosphere.

Framing the Vision: Structure Planning

Structure is often invisible in the final experience of a home, but it defines what is possible. This phase aligns architectural ambition with engineering clarity, ensuring that open spans, cantilevers, and volumes are both expressive and buildable.

Texture & Tones: Material Conversations

Materials give the home its voice. Whether natural stone, timber, plaster, or metal, each surface contributes to a broader sensory language. Here, durability, aging, and tactile quality are considered alongside aesthetics and cohesion.

Room Configurations: Interior Flow

Beyond the floor plan, we consider how rooms feel in sequence. Transitions matter as much as destinations. A well-configured interior creates moments of compression and release, openness and intimacy, guiding experience without forcing it.

Patios, Porches, Landscapes: Outdoor Integration

A home does not end at its walls. Outdoor spaces extend living areas and connect architecture to the environment. These thresholds: porches, courtyards, terraces, mediate between built form and landscape, anchoring the home in place.

Millwork, Finishes, Fixtures: Final Details

Details are where intention becomes tangible. Built-ins, hardware, lighting, and finish selections refine the character of the home. These elements may be small in scale, but they carry the weight of daily interaction.

The End Result: The Finished Home

A completed home is not just a composition of parts, it is a synthesis of decisions made across time. When successful, it feels inevitable, as though it could not have been arranged any other way. It reflects not only design intent, but the life it was designed to hold.