Over the last year, we’ve seen many changes to the way we work and live, shifting communication to the digital world. And while many aspects of our new work style will have positive impacts for years to come, we are also excited to get back to the in-person interactions that are integral to businesses in the hospitality and professional services industries.

The past two months have left many Sonoma & Napa County residents wondering, “Why us?”  How many times can we continue to go through this traumatic experience of wildfires? When we start to assess the damage caused by the most recent Glass Fire, we are reminded that there are many items that must be carefully examined and thought through in order for all of us to successfully navigate the fire rebuild process. Looking into the future, there is a natural desire to get back to a state of normalcy. As an accomplished leader in the wine industry, Nordby Winery Advisors has played, and will continue to play, a critical role in helping our community get back to the life we once knew through rebuilding efforts.

Given California’s track record with natural disasters, it’s easy to say that we are no stranger to unforeseen challenges. Like everyone else we are talking about Coronavirus. In the face of increased cases, the Nordby Construction Services team is consulting with our clients on this challenge along with the familiar ones, i.e. wildfires and earthquakes. In this Nordby effect, we share three ways to ensure your winery facility is resilient and ready to meet the challenge.

Canine Companions for Independence has come a long way since its founding in 1975. Originally operating out a small building in Santa Rosa, the organization maintains its’ original charter to provide freedom and independence to children, adults, and veterans with disabilities through the placement of highly skilled assistance dogs. Thanks to the support of so many that have donated time and money, Canine Companions has grown tremendously over the past 40 years to expand its mission nationwide with centers in California, Florida, New York, Ohio and Texas. In its history, Canine Companions has matched just over 6,022 dogs, and made a significant impact on the day-to-day experiences of thousands of people.   In this Nordby Effect post, we interview executive director, Margaret Sluyk, on expanding the veteran program with the new training center building project.

Celebrating 40 years of business, the Nordby Companies have seen their fair share of success and turmoil. The story of Craig Nordby is a familiar story of a family business with a bright future. He leads a group of Sonoma County’s premier construction companies, as Nordby Companies CEO. The Nordby Companies includes Construction Services, Signature Homes and Wine Caves.  He oversees more than $50 million in revenue and 42 employees in the greater North Bay area between the companies.

The Wine Country has seen its share of wildfires that have devastated businesses in the region. The areas’ wineries, breweries, cideries, and other businesses are looking for fire-proof building materials to prepare for future fire events.  Many business owners have turned toward metal buildings.  There are many advantages of metal buildings.  However, there are disadvantages that need to be addressed.  This Nordby Effect highlights 5 areas that need to be carefully considered when specifying a metal building project.

Established in 1963, the Oakmont Village is a well-known option for retirees looking to be surrounded by a serene mountain landscape and have access to a range of activities and amenities. In recent years, the senior community has taken steps to update its facilities. The latest effort is the modernization of the community’s East Recreation Center.  Led by the community’s committee for Building Construction chairwoman, Iris Harrell, the project required a balance of managing by committee and making timely progress on design and construction activities. This Nordby Effect post covers the Modernization of East Recreation Center, a gradual step toward ensuring Oakmont Village’s continued success in being a destination for active retirees.

After selling Stagecoach in April of 2017, Jan and Bart Krupp looked to purchase a new winery and evaluated the benefits of purchasing Kitchak Cellars. One of the facility’s selling points was that it was permitted to produce more wine. Looking for a professional evaluation of the facility, they engaged Nordby Construction to offer further insight into their prospective investment. Jan says, “When I spoke with Craig, he was thorough in looking at the facility. He was not the cheapest, but customers found they could trust him.” 

After a long day of construction in California’s wine country, it’s not hard to find a great place to eat, drink, and decompress.  If you want to check out a world-class winery or the next best restaurant, you’ll find these places are within immediate reach.  It's also interesting to note that many wineries are pairing their wines with their own farm-to-fork menus. In this Nordby Effect, we take a moment to highlight our project sampling of places to wine and dine throughout the state. Enjoy!

The traditional country club is having a hard time attracting a younger demographic. In a 2014 study commissioned by the National Club Association found that in the 1990s, there more than 5,000 full-service golf and country clubs.  In 2010, there around 4,100. Today, this number has dipped below 4000.  In this same study, membership was down by 20 percent. As a result of this downward trajectory, many clubs have decided to mix things up to attract younger members.

As builders, we’ve witnessed this trend.  Many of area’s country clubs are going through a refresh, offering non-golf amenities like gyms, personal trainers, and yoga classes. A lot of these clubs offer events and culinary experiences where members can socialize and gain a sense of community. It is interesting to see this shift taking place.  This Nordby Effect highlights the projects where we’ve played an active role in refreshing country club environments to address a new generation of members, and create more of a family destination.