Dogwood Home Renovation: Project Update

by Charles Hendricks | Aug 19, 2025 | Harrisonburg Architect, Not used, project update

Our client had found the perfect spot for her forever home, but the house itself was cold and uninviting. It desperately needed a renovation, and she needed a design that would reflect her unique values and goals. She chose our team to help her achieve this.

We started by walking through the home, searching for opportunities and challenges while taking in the existing conditions. We made sure to hear her voice and understand her vision for the space, and our design would be guided by it.

Our solution balanced practicality with the client’s aspirations. We updated existing cabinets and added new ones where needed, which allowed us to stick to the budget. We changed colors, updated the lighting, and opened up some walls to make the space feel more expansive and connected.

The results speak for themselves. The house is now cozy and welcoming, with a style that flows beautifully from one room to the next. From the front door to the back porch, this home is ready for a lifetime of new memories.

The Ultimate Checklist: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Designing Your Custom Home

by Charles Hendricks | Aug 14, 2025 | architecture, Harrisonburg Architect, Interior Design, Not used, resources

Here are 5 questions to ask yourself before designing your custom home!

1. What's Your "Why"?

The Story Behind Your Dream Home: Think beyond your features and budget and consider the emotional core of your dream home. How do you want your family to live in this new space? What kind of lifestyle works for your family to thrive?

2. What Does "Sustainable" Mean to You?

Beyond the Buzzwords: Where are your values when it comes to chemicals used inside your home? What about energy sources? How will indoor air quality impact your decisions as it directly impacts your families’ health and wellbeing?

3. What’s Your "Must-Have" vs. "Nice-to-Have"?

Prioritize Your Wishlist: This provides a practical, actionable list as we start our design process. It will also help us as we work to achieve your budget goals.

4. How Do You Envision Your Home Evolving Over the Next 20 Years?

Think about your long-term value and functionality of their home, not just the present. Do you have a family history of mobility challenges? Do you expect the kids to live at home for a number of years after graduation? Do you need to care for your parents?

5. What Is Your Communication Style?

Do you prefer emails, phone calls, or zoom meetings? How often do you need to be updated to stay comfortable with the process?

Project Update: Haiti Agape Pavilion

by Audrey | Apr 18, 2025 | Charlottesville, community, Empathy, Not used, project update

Project Update: Haiti Agape Pavilion

By: Paul Tassell

Seven years ago, The Gaines Group donated their time and expertise to assist with a project in Haiti. That project is now nearing completion.

Charlottesville First United Methodist Church partnered with The Friends of Fort Liberte, a 501(c)3 founded to serve the people of the Ft. Liberte area in northeast Haiti. This charity has helped develop many projects including projects serving the Eben-Ezer Primary School which provides education to hundreds of Haitian students.

Dave Wheatley, a Trustee of CFUMC, approached The Gaines Group about one of those projects. The Eben-Ezer School was in need of a pavilion where their students were protected from the sun and rain during lunch. The Gaines Group provided renderings for fundraising purposes and structural design for the now Agape Pavilion. Volunteers plan to return, now that the pavilion is nearing completion, to build picnic tables.

The Agape Pavilion means so much to the community. Pastor Dasnis Pierre of Haiti expressed his appreciation, saying “we will be able to create a community life among the students at the school. The pavilion will also be available for church gatherings and festivals. The Agape Pavilion will be a place of love and sharing.”

If you would like to donate to this cause or the many projects for Friends of Fort Liberte, please visit their website: https://friendsoffortliberte.com/system/causes/view/252/the-agape-pavilion