Gene Silva
Architect
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Gene Silva
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Vineyard Studio/Barn
I have been practicing architecture as Eugene A. Silva Architect in Healdsburg, California since 1984. During this time I have sought to enhance the built environment through the practical application of "good architecture" and by listening to my clients needs and wishes. Each project is approached as a unique problem with a unique set of issues and requirements rather than the application of an architectural "style" or current trend. The growth of my practice is based upon an ever-increasing list of clients pleased with my sincere concern, quality design, and competent personal service. Most of my projects are small scale including both residential and commercial. Most recently I am working on several wineries here in Sonoma County.
I started using a computer in my business in 1988 when I bought my Mac II. At the time, my choices were DOS or Mac and as an architect, not a computer junky, I did not want to have to memorize a lot of obscure commands and operational sequences in order to use my computer. I have never regretted my choice. At first, I used my Mac for word processing and business management functions. I also began to research different CAD programs for the time when I would abandon the old drafting table. Many of my consultants and peers had begun using AutoCAD and each time I would watch someone using the program I always thought, "there has to be a better way". I tried several different Mac-based programs but it was not until I saw PowerDraw demonstrated at the Macworld Expo in San Francisco in 1994 that I felt that I had found one that provided me with the ease of use, and elegant simplicity that I had been looking for. I wanted a program that would allow me to produce drawings in a manner that I was familiar with. After beginning to use PowerDraw, I found that not only could I produce the same high quality of drawings I had done by hand but that I could do them faster, and they were a lot more accurate. Along with PowerDraw, I purchased the Advanced Drafting Tools that Alfred Scott wrote. I found them to be an invaluable addition to the program.
Since then, PowerDraw has become PowerCADD, Advanced Drafting Tools have become WildTools, and together they continue to improve the speed, ease of use, and functionality of the drawing experience. One of the best aspects of WildTools is that with them, you get Alfred Scott, a wild crazy guy who just loves to solve programming problems. I have been able to suggest numerous modifications and additions to WildTools that are not only listened to but also implemented in future releases of WildTools. Try to get that from AutoCAD.
PowerCADD and WildTools have allowed me to take my practice home (I no longer need an office with lots of desk space); has allowed me the ability to produce all of my drafting myself (I no longer need to hire employees) and makes my practice a lot more fun. I would and do recommend PowerCADD and WildTools to anyone who wants a no-nonsense drafting tool.
Gene Silva
Gene Silva
Gene Silva is an architect in Healdsburg, California. Telephone: (707) 433-0189, fax (707) 433-4356, email: SILVARCH@AOL.com
Gene uses a color for each pen size, but the final prints are
always printed in black & white.
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So a detail will print like this. |
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Here's a tiled roof detail. |
Floor plan
Electrical detail
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