--- title: "Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd. — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-eric-benner-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1635861339 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1635861339.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd." category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/dd5363340d922e17_9074-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "1725 Ferndale Avenue, Northbrook, Illinois 60062, United States" latitude: 42.1254 longitude: -87.8465 phone: "(847) 412-0692" website: http://www.MEBArchitect.com rating: 5 review_count: 12 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 261 last_updated: 2026-08-17 --- # Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd. Original Houzz profile: [Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-eric-benner-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1635861339) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Northbrook, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Evanston, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Skokie, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Park Ridge, Wheeling, Northbrook, Elk Grove Village, Mundelein, Niles, Highland Park, Wilmette, Vernon Hills, Morton Grove, Rolling Meadows, Lake Forest, Deerfield, Prospect Heights, Lincolnwood, Winnetka, Glencoe, Long Grove, Lincolnshire, Northfield, Highwood, Green Oaks, Rosemont, Riverwoods, Kenilworth, Bannockburn, Indian Creek, Mettawa, Golf, Fort Sheridan, Glenview Nas, Techny - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (12 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2018–2025), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves Chicago custom home designs creating uniquely personal living and working spaces. Based in Northbrook, Illinois my passion is for solving the challenges that my clients face while honoring the integrity of the home's style. My client's homes are crafted to fit their specific needs. Flexibility in the layout enables efficient use of spaces. Materials, colors, and textures draw visitors purposely throughout the home. More than thirty years in the custom home design and construction industry. As a Virtual Reality Architect, Mark's focus is on strong visual communication to speak a language that everyone understands. View my website for selected projects and the stories of very satisfied clients. There, you will also find valuable resources for your home project planning. ( https://www.mebarchitect.com/) I am a licensed architect in Colorado, Illinois, and Wisconsin with a team to serve clients across the country. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Floor Plans - Energy-Efficient Homes - 3D Rendering - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Drafting - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Structural Engineering - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Mudroom Design - Attic Conversion - Basement Design - Deck Design - Laundry Room Design - Passive Solar Heating & Cooling - Home Gym Design & Construction - Rooftop Deck Installation - 3D Home Design - Custom Home - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Chicago - Evanston - Arlington Heights - Palatine - Skokie - Des Plaines - Mount Prospect - Glenview - Buffalo Grove - Park Ridge - Wheeling - Northbrook - Elk Grove Village - Mundelein - Niles - Highland Park - Wilmette - Vernon Hills - Morton Grove - Rolling Meadows - Lake Forest - Deerfield - Prospect Heights - Lincolnwood - Winnetka - Glencoe - Long Grove - Lincolnshire - Northfield - Highwood - Green Oaks - Rosemont - Riverwoods - Kenilworth - Bannockburn - Indian Creek - Mettawa - Golf - Fort Sheridan - Glenview Nas - Techny ### Typical Job Cost $800,000 - 4 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd. | | Address | 1725 Ferndale Avenue, Northbrook, Illinois 60062, United States | | Phone | (847) 412-0692 | | Website | http://www.MEBArchitect.com | | License Number | 001-019555 | | Followers on Houzz | 261 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — http://www.Facebook.com/MEBArchitects - X (Twitter) — @bennerm - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbenner - Blog — www.MEBArchitect.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-eric-benner-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1635861339) - **Website:** http://www.MEBArchitect.com - **Phone:** (847) 412-0692 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - NCARB - Illinois Licensed Architect - Resources: https://www.mebarchitect.com/free-home-design-resources/ - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2018–2025), for Service. **Affiliations** - [AIA Custom Residential Architects Network](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-custom-residential-architects-network-pfvwus-pf~629398549) - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [Association Of Licensed Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/association-of-licensed-architects-pfvwus-pf~1888392227) - [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 12 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### All 12 reviews **★★★★★ — Steve Huening, May 2024** > Mark (Eric) is not only a great architect, he is a modern-day architect that is comfortable working in the digital space. > His 3D renderings and models are amazing ! **Comment from Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd.:** > Thanks for your kind words, Steve. It has been a joy to work with you. > Mark **★★★★★ — HU-137537012, May 2024** > Mark Benner was my architect for our home in Fontana Wi. It was a very pleasant experience. We worked together on the layout and exterior (he really listened to me). He add some unique touches. It came out better than expected. Such a beautiful home. > Thank you so much, Mark!! **Comment from Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd.:** > Thanks for your kind words. Working together on this project was a joy, and I hope you love the result as much as I do. **★★★★★ — CabinetWerks by Orren Pickell, May 2024** > I've worked with Mark for many years and he's very talented, professional, and passionate about his work. I highly recommend Mark! **★★★★★ — HU-687109122, May 2024** > Mark did a great job designing our studio, making changes along the way as needed or requested. He has been helpful and friendly. **★★★★★ — Amy Harris, Sept. 2019** > Mark was quick to respond and got us our scope of work and pricing very quickly. A true professional with a wealth of knowledge. Would recommend him to anyone looking to complete an update or remodeling project. **Comment from Mark Eric Benner - Architects, Ltd.:** > Thanks, Amy, > I look forward to working together in the future. **★★★★★ — Gerard R, July 2017** > We came to Mark with an idea of what the home we wanted to build should look like. He sat down with us and listened to our thoughts, our likes, dislikes, and most importantly took the time to understand our personalities. After a few working sessions, he showed us the drawings which were exactly what we were trying to convey. Additionally he took the paper drawings and turned them into a 3D model which allowed us to see what the home would look like inside and out.....it was quite astonishing. Mark has a knack for turning thoughts and feelings into a product, we are very happy he was recommended to us. **★★★★★ — HU-84966, Sept. 2016** > Mark did a great job in configuring our space. We had a limited amount of square feet to work with, but he was able to create a plan that achieved our goals. He was pleasant and a pleasure to work with! **★★★★★ — Helen Cunningham, Aug. 2016** > Mark Benner designed an addition for my house. I found him to be an architect that made sure the design was what I had visioned it to be and wanted. He made sure I knew every detail of his drawings and if I wanted changes he was accommodating. It was a pleasure working with him and I was very pleased with my design. I would strongly recommend him as an architect. **★★★★★ — GOGO Design Group, July 2016** > Mark Benner is so great to work with. His creative talent, combined with brilliant technology savvy, especially with his unique computer aided drawing program, helped me bring my vision of a contemporary rustic master bathroom to life! It felt like magic, that's how effortless it was. His calm and kind demeanor, both around me and the rest of the project team, including my clients, brought a warm and positive energy to our project. I can't wait to work with Mark again. **★★★★★ — Chicago Green Insulation, Inc., July 2015** > Mark is an outstanding architect/ professional. I love working with Mark on various projects to find the sweet spot for comfort and cost. Mark's ability to relate to owners and translating their needs and budget into their dream space! Mark has a superior understanding of design and functionality! In addition to Mark's architectural understanding, Mark is also a go to person for me when I need an introduction as his network is VAST! **★★★★★ — C&R, July 2015** > Mark Benner was just terrific in all aspects of our work. We had a major reconstruction of our house and out of all the architects we interviewed, he was by far the best. We were very impressed from the initial meeting when he was willing to brainstorm and share ideas with us before even signing a contract, which made it easy to sign on. He was extremely knowledgable (engineering and construction background), very innovative and worked with us on multiple iterations to be sure we got everything just right. He also worked well with our outside contractor, even though he had not worked with him before our job. > > The best part of Mark is that he's just easy and a pleasure to work with. Very accommodating to our schedules, willing to come out mid job for additional feedback and truly an overall nice guy. We give him our highest recommendation. **★★★★★ — stephaniezwilling, July 2015** > I have no adequate words to rave about Mark! We had maybe the ugliest split level house in the universe; he developed a creative solution (one that no other architect had previously thought of) and created a beautiful, open home which nearly doubled our living space. He is remarkably organized, economically and environmentally minded, and creative beyond measure. Additionally, he has a calm and kind manner which came quite in handy managing contractors. Thank you, Mark! ## Selected projects - [Lake Bluff, IL E North Modern Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-bluff-il-e-north-modern-farmhouse-pj-vj~7533004) - Location: Lake Bluff, IL - Photos: 19 - Description: The Lake Bluff Modern Farmhouse is situated in a walkable, intimate neighborhood near Lake Michigan and the METRA train, providing easy access to community amenities while maintaining the privacy and tranquility of suburban living. Whether you’re drawn to the light-filled interiors, the custom finishes, or the beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces, this home offers a timeless design that’s ready to be enjoyed by its future homeowners. - [Lakefront Fontana Wisconsin Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lakefront-fontana-wisconsin-home-pj-vj~7459314) - Location: Fontana-on-Geneva Lake, WI - Photos: 13 - [Fontana Club Family Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fontana-club-family-home-pj-vj~7437862) - Location: Fontana-on-Geneva Lake, WI - Photos: 15 - Description: Fontana Club Family Home Nestled in the serene landscapes of Village of Fontana-on-Geneva-Lake, Wisconsin, at the idyllic Southwest corner of Lake Geneva, stands the epitome of familial elegance – the Fontana Club Family Home. Embracing the rich heritage of “Club” traditions synonymous with the Lake Geneva region, this residence is the nucleus of a private family enclave. Envisioned to commemorate cherished moments and foster communal bonds, it embodies the essence of ‘club living,’ where every… - [South Shore Club - Community Clubhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/south-shore-club-community-clubhouse-pj-vj~12215) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 29 - Description: A private clubhouse serving a community of forty families in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. This award-winning, subterranean structure is situated in the center of a horseshoe arrangement of single-family homes. Preserving the lake views while providing a gathering space for community members was the real challenge. The wood-burning fireplace chimney is disguised within the cottage folly placed on the clubhouse roof. The clubhouse features a multi-purpose space, ornate bar, pool lockers, catering kitch… - [Mettawa Contemporary Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mettawa-contemporary-ranch-pj-vj~5883000) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - Description: Chicago custom home design for a contemporary ranch. Located in a truly pastoral scene, it was crucial to understand and curate the home's siting. Clean lines of stucco paired with cedar shake roofing and standing seam metal roofing dormers. The complexities of this design are quite challenging to communicate using traditional architectural drawings. The Virtual Reality Architecture process ensures that everyone is on the same page and that there are no misunderstandings. With this clarity cost… - [Northbrook Modern Craftsman](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/northbrook-modern-craftsman-pj-vj~2486540) - Location: Northbrook, IL - Photos: 33 - Description: A growing family with deep roots in the community of Northbrook, IL seek a place to call home. This Chicago custom home design is an extraordinarily long lot offers elongated views. The program had an opportunity to develop over time. Beginning with the detached garage, we explored the design concept that most appealed to the family. Originally a succession of the rambling garage and shed spaces, we reimagined the design to serve as home base for gardening and pool activities. With the lessons l… - [Contemporary Country Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-country-farmhouse-pj-vj~2554027) - Location: Northfield, IL - Photos: 12 - Description: Chicago custom home design for a single-family home, configured for a unique and challenging lot shape. Inspired by its young family, moving from their urban condominium in Chicago, this home's design challenges were significant. The focus is on entertaining in wide-open spaces connected and layered to enhance the sense of space. A secluded home office is private while maintaining a connection to shared outdoor spaces. The second-floor space provides ample bedroom spaces, laundry, and a multi-pu… - [Highland Park, IL - Manor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/highland-park-il-manor-pj-vj~12214) - Location: Highland Park, IL - Photos: 11 - Description: Eclectic, old-world single-family home with a variety exterior finish treatments into a unique composition. Brick, stone and stucco exterior with unique custom details. Timber elements integrated within the brick and stucco create an old-world aesthetic. The variety of details offer the impression of development throughout the ages. Cedar shake roofing with copper dormers are a rich finishing touch. - [Art and Science Intertwined](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/art-and-science-intertwined-pj-vj~2643664) - Location: Burr Ridge, IL - Photos: 38 - Description: This contemporary home built in Burr Ridge, Illinois uses natural and reclaimed materials with unique textural qualities. This is a true Chicago custom home design. With many Japanese influenced design elements, including a Genkan, a lowered entry area, this home has a clean and uncluttered living experience with a distinctive and durable surface. This design by Ross Architecture in collaboration with Mark Eric Benner – Architects was developed and produced for a private residential client. A un… - [Bridgewater New Jersey Residence - Mountain View](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bridgewater-new-jersey-residence-mountain-view-pj-vj~5794700) - Location: Bridgewater Township, NJ - Photos: 6 - Description: New construction residence in the conceptual design phase. Designed for entertaining, this home features open-plan layout and facilities to accommodate parties, small and large. The site overlooks the expansive valley below and resides at one of the highest points in the entire state. The views are striking and dramatic. Taking full advantage of the sloping terrain, the infinity-edge pool and elevated patio are easily accessed from the main floor. The lower rear yard can be reached from the walk… - [Northbrook Spa Sanctuary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/northbrook-spa-sanctuary-pj-vj~2486527) - Location: Northbrook, IL - Photos: 10 - Description: Conception of this bathroom sanctuary was created by Rebecca Pogonitz of GoGo Design Group. Together we worked to translate the concept into a tangible solution. Through the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) we were able to combine magazine images, photos, reclaimed materials into an easily understandable image of the final solution. The comprehensive views ensure that everyone has a clear understanding of the goals and that there are no misunderstandings. - [Rustic, Contemporary Master Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rustic-contemporary-master-bathroom-pj-vj~2428979) - Location: Northbrook, IL - Photos: 10 - Description: GOGO design group recently shared an amazing experience with a Northbrook, Illinois client who dreamed of creating her own personal Spa Retreat. After sharing her inspiration photos featuring monochromatic, contemporary interiors punctuated by subtle rustic elements, we defined her Spa Bath Vision as Rustic Contemporary, a design style that blended perfectly with the rest of her exquisitely tranquil home. This vision served as our guiding light throughout the design process, built upon the strat… - [Oak Park Bungalow Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oak-park-bungalow-renovation-pj-vj~2059101) - Location: Oak Park, IL - Photos: 13 - Description: A traditional bungalow in Oak Park, Illinois receives a major update and restoration. Inside and out, the details of this charming home had been muddled over the years and was in desperate need of some TLC. - [Deerfield, IL - Crabtree](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/deerfield-il-crabtree-pj-vj~12186) - Location: Deerfield, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: Two-story, brick home with swooped roof eaves - [Architect's Garden Studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/architect-s-garden-studio-pj-vj~610645) - Location: Northbrook, IL - Photos: 16 - Description: Welcome to the Mark Eric Benner - Architects Garden Studio. This is being developed as my architectural laboratory to demonstrate new and sustainable technologies and practices. In addition to is use as outdoor storage it also serves as an architectural design studio with an inspiring view. The vegetated roof offers the comfort of an earthen home, sustainably addresses storm water runoff, and blends beautifully into the garden landscape. Why a green roof? Many have inquired as to the benefits of… - [Un-Split Home in Northbrook, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/un-split-home-in-northbrook-il-pj-vj~1208218) - Location: Northbrook, IL - Photos: 20 - Description: Seeking to expand their 1950’s era, split-level home in Northbrook, Illinois, this home’s family discovers that its configuration proves inflexible and challenging to improve. Together we developed a solution to convert a once compartmentalized plan into the open and flowing home that they desire. The open plan capitalizes on its views into the forest preserve and vegetable garden located in its back yard. Missing a two car garage, we reconfigured the layout, sacrificing an under-utilized baseme… - [Highland Park Coastal](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/highland-park-coastal-pj-vj~12178) - Location: Highland Park, IL - Photos: 9 - Description: Shingle, coastal style home on a quaint, little known street in Highland Park, Illinois. This home features six bedrooms, an open plan, ample kitchen, a combination 4-car garage & indoor sport court and everything else an active family requires. Built on a unique lot in a special neighborhood, this home enhances the unique fabric and character found elsewhere on the street. - [Deerfield, IL - Westgate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/deerfield-il-westgate-pj-vj~12213) - Location: Deerfield, IL - Photos: 33 - Description: Enjoying a generously sized lot, this home enjoys both indoor and outdoor spaces. Natural light serves as the guiding theme. The open plan helps each room to feel extraordinarily spacious, but maintains its unique spatial identity. Unique to this home are its stacked screen porches and upper level porch. Additionally, the walkout basement floods that space with natural light and provides access to the backyard areas. The living area totals 5557 s.f. on three stories, excluding the basement. Ther… [See all 18 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-eric-benner-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1635861339) ## Ideabooks - [Houriett](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/181678378/list/houriett) — 19 ideas - [Partners](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146517069/list/partners) — 6 ideas - [Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126991437/list/bathroom) — 3 ideas - [Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/44427780/list/kitchens) — 5 ideas - [Spanish Colonial](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/158739083/list/spanish-colonial) — 5 ideas - [Doheny Wine Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/158048487/list/doheny-wine-room) — 10 ideas - [Dusa](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/148993166/list/dusa) — 32 ideas - [Built-ins](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/142472710/list/built-ins) — 7 ideas - [Seasonal Halloween Decoration](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/127812218/list/seasonal-halloween-decoration) — 8 ideas - [Outdoor Spaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126970372/list/outdoor-spaces) — 5 ideas - [Garden Studio](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/13050257/list/garden-studio) — 41 ideas - [Cool Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126970467/list/cool-architecture) — 22 ideas - [Living Spaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126989209/list/living-spaces) — 2 ideas - [Stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126970204/list/stairs) — 2 ideas - [Contemporary Style](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126970281/list/contemporary-style) — 2 ideas - [Outdoor Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126966743/list/outdoor-lighting) — 16 ideas - [Container Homes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/124061453/list/container-homes) — 26 ideas - [Epstein Hutch](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/121592879/list/epstein-hutch) — 17 ideas - [bennerm's Favorites](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/333764/list/bennerm-s-favorites) — 38 ideas - [Sherman Kitchen Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/120224054/list/sherman-kitchen-renovation) — 1 idea [See all 34 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/bennerm) ## Community Q&A **Q: Robin's Egg blue for kitchen cabinets?** *(in Remodeling)* We are giving our kitchen a face lift after we did a major remodel 20 years ago. The cabinets are natural cherry (but have darkened over the years). We have chosen a white marble like porcelain for the countertop and dark taupe shade of wood like tile for the floor. My cabinet color choice was Robin's Egg Blue but now I am second guessing it. I chose it because it's a pretty, happy color and we have white shutters and trim in BM Atrium white. I choose the blue because I didn't want a super white kitchen and the style of the kitchen is not modern. Now, I hesitate. Should I paint the cabinets white like the shutters? Would it be too much white? Especially with the white countertop? Haven't started yet but will in about a month and the cabinets are last. I fell in love with this kitchen....it looks like blue on the lowers and white on the uppers... A: I really like your instincts with regard to the Robin's Egg blue. I think that is very complimentary to the marble counters and white shutters. The ultra white kitchen has seen its day. We are now working in character and warmth with neutral color choices. The subtle contrast between the cabinets and the wall/backsplash is striking and elegant. You could also consider a grey counter, but I also like the marble. Best of luck to you. **Q: 1960's stone fireplace to keep or to paint/stain/whitewash?** *(in Home Decorating)* I just recently painted my walls and it turns out the paint ended up with a blue tint to it so now they kind of look baby blue. Bleh! But this was such a big task painting as much of the walls as we did to get rid of what was previously the color of a lot of infant diapers I've changed! SO now we have this fireplace, we actually have 3 of these fireplaces in our house all the same layout all the same stone color and size. I need help on what to do with this fireplace. Any suggestions would be nice even if you think leave the stone and repaint the walls a different color. A: Repaint the walls in an off-white to compliment the stone. **Q: Desperately seeking exterior charm...** *(in Design Dilemma)* Hi. I'm about to start a major renovation on my house and would love some opinions on how to proceed with the front of it. We are probably incorporating the porch into our living space so have the opportunity to completely change the look. I would prefer to keep the entry on the right side because the internal stairs are on that side too but I was thinking we need some kind of portico and the house has always been lacking curb appeal. Because of some internal changes, our living room will likely face the street and I'm struggling with front window placement because I'm going to want a tv on that wall. Does anyone have thoughts/ideas on how to add charm to this house and give me a big enough solid wall to put a tv? A: The front elevation is very plain and uninviting. The front porch is an opportunity to enhance the elevation and add significant character. Check out the before and afters for this home with similar challenges. Before After **Q: Grout color for my porcelain timber look tiles please help** *(in Building a Home)* We are building a home and have decided on porcelain wood tile for our entire first floor - Oak Avorio Matt tile. The grout options are Ardex(brand name) Midnight, Havana or Macchiato. I would like the grout to fully blend in to give more of that real timber floor look, however, due to the color options I'm left with, there will be bit of contrast. I'm leaning towards the Midnight as it looks rustic and mimics hardwood more than the lighter one but concerned that It will be too much of black color so only you can see the black lines.... I heard it comes lighter than the samples so Havana color will be too light for the tile... I can't make a decision please help! A: I think you just need to get close. As the tiles themselves are patterned, your options are to highlight the joints using contrasting colors. Or, as you have suggested, blend in so the joint is less obvious. Pictures of your tile and grout options would also help. **Q: Lighting: To Pot or Not to Pot, that is the kitchen table question...** *(in Home Decorating)* We are helping our son reno his first house! We are adding a kitchen table with built-in L-shaped banquette seating, and moving the fridge (and cabinet above it), as well as the cabinet on the right in the photo, to the opposite side of the kitchen, in order to make a spot for the table. The placement of lighting over the table is complicated by a ceiling beam (the house had an addition added 20 years ago). We‘d prefer to do a light fixture over the table instead of just adding more recessed lighting. But the ceiling beam above the table is not centred on the table, and it is 8.5” wide, and drops down 11”. They are 8’ ceilings. I’m thinking we’d need something that drops more than the 11“, both visually and to spread light across the whole table. I think it‘s possible to do something other than pot lights, and still have the fixture at the ‘required’ 60-66“ from the floor. We’re considering a circular semi-flush mount, or perhaps something linear would better to extend under the beam (but it would have to be thin to avoid being too close to the beam)? As far as colouring, he is keeping the oak cabinets but changing to black pulls. The new flooring going in this month is pre-refinished solid maple hardwood, with a hint of grey tone. Casings will be white. Thank you for any thoughts you have about the lighting dilemma, suggested fixtures, or anything else that jumps out at you in the plans! A: Recessed cans (pots) are great and there is a reason they are used with such frequency. They are intended to "go away" and enable placement of light where you need it, rather than where it looks good on a lighting plan. In consideration of the beam, the lights above the island should be "spots" rather than "floods" so there is no walls wash onto the beam. You could also consider pendant lights to drop below the beam. The beam is a bit distracting on its own. You might consider adding faux beams or a coffered ceiling treatment to blend in the detail. **Q: Front Elevations - Which exterior finish: some brick, more brick...?** *(in Building a Home)* Crunch time is nearing. Groundbreaking is this coming week, and we need help deciding which amount of brick looks best. Also, help deciding if we should keep the shake siding or make it board and batten. And if we keep the shake, should it be stained to match front porch posts and open gable or painted a complimentary color. (still no clue what color to paint board and batten) Thennnnn, should we have garage doors that match the stained wood?? All help is very much appreciated and if y'all think of any other design please mock it up or describe it. Thank you!! A: In general, I prefer the "Mostly Brick" option. However there are a few objections. Unless you are using all brick, then I would suggest that the premium materials be oriented around the front entry. Secondary and cost-effective materials should find their place on remote and less important architectural elements. Also, make every effort to change materials at inside corners and never on outside corners. Not only is the appearance an awkward one, but the detailing can be problematic and invite water intrusion. You most often see this happening for homes sold, based on their front elevation. I do like the "swooped" roof eave, though it is easy to lose this effect, especially when viewed from low angles (ie the ground.) For this to be perceived you have to exaggerate the proportions. This has to be balanced so as not to go overboard. Its best to consider this through the use of 3D design. Architectural elevations, while accurate, obscure the real-life experience of the detail. This also has to be integrated into the eave design as it affects the framing of the wall/roof/ceiling intersection. Simply building-up, or "faking" the swoop tends to bulk up construction and lose the elegance intended. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-17.*