Blog
Welcome to the Gable Design — your go-to resource for architecture and interior design tips in Central Pennsylvania. Browse posts on residential design, renovations, and construction planning.

Zoning vs Building Code: What Small Business Owners Need to Know
Understand the difference between zoning and building code before signing a commercial lease. Learn how each affects your business approval, safety requirements, and build-out costs.

Commercial Parking Requirements Explained for Small Business Owners
Parking requirements are one of the most misunderstood — and most overlooked — aspects of commercial lease evaluation. Many small business owners assume: The space

What Is a Change of Use in Commercial Real Estate? (And Why It Can Get Expensive)
If you’re opening a brick-and-mortar business, you may hear the term “change of use” from a zoning officer, building official, or architect. For many small

Before You Sign a Commercial Lease: 7 Things Small Business Owners Must Verify
Signing a commercial lease is one of the most significant financial commitments a small business owner will make. Unlike residential leases, commercial agreements are typically

My First Podcast Conversation: Talking About Design, Zoning, and the Planning Process
Jessie Ellis joins the Systems Are Sexy podcast to discuss architecture, zoning, and the early planning decisions that influence residential and commercial building projects.

What Small Business Owners Need to Know About Zoning (Before Signing a Lease)
Opening or expanding a brick-and-mortar business is a major milestone. You find a space that fits your brand. You imagine the signage. You begin planning

What No One Tells You Before You Build a Home
Most home building mistakes don’t happen during construction—they happen before it ever starts. Here’s what homeowners are rarely told, and how early planning can save stress, time, and money.

7 Books That Shape How I Think About Design, Decision-Making, and Building a Life You Actually Enjoy
The best projects don’t start with finishes or floor plans—they start with how you think. These seven books offer perspective, clarity, and insight that help homeowners make better decisions before they build or renovate.