Photo by Jody Dole John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

For a family who believes fitness is not only an essential part of life but also a fun opportunity for the whole family to connect, build and achieve greatness together there is nothing better than a custom designed obstacle course right in your back yard. THEME The theme of this half mile trail through the woods is evident in the fun, creative and all-inclusive obstacles hidden in the natural flow of the land around this amazing family home. The course was created with adults and children, advanced and beginner athletes, competitive and entertaining events all accounted for. Each of the 13 obstacles was designed to be challenging no matter the size, skill or ability of the athlete lucky enough to run the course. FOCUS The focus for this family was to create an outdoor adventure that could be an athletic, social and personal outlet for their entire family while maintaining the natural beauty of the landscape and without altering the sweeping views from the home. The large scale of the challenging obstacles is camouflaged within the landscape using the rolling hills and mature trees as a natural curtain in every season. The beauty of the course does not diminish the functional and demanding nature of the obstacles which are designed to focus on multiple strength, agility, and cardio fitness abilities and intensities. STORAGE The start of the trail includes a raised training area offering a dedicated space clear from the ground to place bags, mats and other equipment used during the run. A small all-terrain storage cart was provided for use with 6 yoga mats, 3 medicine balls of various weights, rings, sprinting cones, and a large digital timer to record laps. GROWTH The course was designed to provide an athletic and fun challenge for children, teens and adults no matter their experience or athletic prowess. This course offers competitive athletes a challenge and budding athletes an opportunity to experience and ignite their passion for physical activity. Initially the concept for the course was focused on the youngest of the family however as the design grew so did the obstacles and now it is a true family experience that will meet their adapting needs for years. Each obstacle is paired with an instructional sign directing the runners in proper use of the obstacle, adaptations for skill levels and tips on form. These signs are all customized for this course and are printed on metal to ensure they last for many years. SAFETY Safety is crucial for all physical activity and an obstacle course of this scale presents unique safety concerns. Children should always be supervised when participating in an adventure on the course however additional care was paid to details on the course to ensure everyone has a great time. All of the course obstacles have been created with pressure treated lumber that will withstand the seasonal poundings. All footer pilings that support obstacles have been placed into the ground between 3 to 4 feet (.9 to 1.2 meters) and each piling has 2 to 3 bags of concrete (totaling over 90 bags used throughout the course) ensuring stability of the structure and safety of the participants. Additionally, all obstacle lumber has been given rounded corners and sanded down offering less splintering and more time for everyone to enjoy the course. This athletic and charismatic family strives to incorporate a healthy active lifestyle into their daily life and this obstacle course offers their family an opportunity to strengthen themselves and host some memorable and active events at their amazing home.

LANDMARK PHOTOGRAPHY
Elegant home design photo in Minneapolis

Our homeowner was desirous of an improved floorplan for her Kitchen/Living Room area, updating the kitchen and converting a 3-season room into a sunroom off the kitchen. With some modifications to existing cabinetry in the kitchen and new countertops, backsplash and plumbing fixtures she has an elegant renewal of the space. Additionally, we created a circular floor plan by opening the wall that separated the living room from the kitchen allowing for much improved function of the space. We raised the floor in the 3-season room to bring the floor level with the kitchen and dining area creating a sitting area as an extension of the kitchen. New windows and French doors with transoms in the sitting area and living room, not only improved the aesthetic but also improved function and the ability to access the exterior patio of the home. With refinished hardwoods and paint throughout, and an updated staircase with stained treads and painted risers, this home is now beautiful and an entertainer’s dream.

Architect: Portuondo Perotti Architects Photography: Carlos Domenech “This is well detailed and consistent inside and out. It is a classic Mediterranean Revival in the Floridian tradition of Mizner.” This single-family residential home in Gables Estates, Coral Gables, Florida, successfully pays respect to the architecture of the Mediterranean and Renaissance Italian styles. From the use of courtyards to the high level of detailing, this project emphasizes the most picturesque and expressive qualities of these styles. The residence reflects the visions of two of Coral Gables’ first architects, who designed beautiful and timeless architecture in this garden city to become a lasting piece in the landscape. This project not only captures the breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, but with timeless style and lush landscaping, it creates a centerpiece for the view from the bay to Coral Gables. The home is designed as a long gallery, with spaces connected by courtyards and public realms. Another large inspiration for this project was the idea of the garden and landscape. With Coral Gables as a garden city, landscape became an integral part of the conception and design. The durability of Marvin products, their ability to stand up to the South Florida climate, as well as the Marvin attention to detail and proportion, made them the perfect choice to employ in a project of such high standards. The range of products allowed the freedom of design to explore all possibilities and turn visions into reality. The result was a lasting piece of architecture that would reflect a level of detail in every part of its structure. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Round Top Window Marvin Ultimate Arch Top French Door Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door Marvin Ultimate Venting Picture Window Marvin Casemaster

Photo by Jody Dole John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

This transitional kitchen brings in clean lines, simple cabinets, warm earth tones accents, and lots of function. This kitchen has a small footprint and had very little storage space. Our clients wanted to add more space, somehow, get the most storage possible, make it feel bright and open, have a desk area, and somewhere that could function as a coffee area. By taking out the doorway into the dining room, we were able to extend the cabinetry into the dining room, giving them their desk area as well as storage and a nice area for guests! A custom appliance garage was made that allows you to have all the necessities right at your hands and gives you the ability to close it up and hide all of the appliances. Trash, spice, tray, and drawer pull outs were added for function, as well as 2 lazy susans, wine storage, and deep drawers for pots and pans. The homeowner fell in love with the matte white GE Cafe appliances with the brushed bronze accents, and quite frankly, so did we! Once we found those, we knew we wanted to incorporate that metal throughout the kitchen. New hardwood flooring was installed in the kitchen and finished to match the existing wood in the dining room. We brought the warmth up to eye level with open shelving stained to match. We love creating with our clients, and this kitchen was no exception! We are thrilled with how everything came together.

Our homeowner was desirous of an improved floorplan for her Kitchen/Living Room area, updating the kitchen and converting a 3-season room into a sunroom off the kitchen. With some modifications to existing cabinetry in the kitchen and new countertops, backsplash and plumbing fixtures she has an elegant renewal of the space. Additionally, we created a circular floor plan by opening the wall that separated the living room from the kitchen allowing for much improved function of the space. We raised the floor in the 3-season room to bring the floor level with the kitchen and dining area creating a sitting area as an extension of the kitchen. New windows and French doors with transoms in the sitting area and living room, not only improved the aesthetic but also improved function and the ability to access the exterior patio of the home. With refinished hardwoods and paint throughout, and an updated staircase with stained treads and painted risers, this home is now beautiful and an entertainer’s dream.

Another unique ShowerCrown. "Acropolis" Incorporates a column faced design across it's length, symbolizing strength and durability of design, a great choice for a mans bath. Named for it's unique ability to capture and refract light and shadows along it's entire profile, Acropolis adds stature to any bathroom. Derived from Classical Greek and Roman architecture, it comes primed in white for painting, utilizes the same 15 second installation as with all ShowerCrowns. They are designed for use in humid environments. Dimensions: 7.25 inches tall, x 1.5 inches inch deep x approximately 60 inches long. Super durable, lightweight Polymer will never rot, mold or mildew. "Acropolis" is available in straight or curved varieties for use in front of straight or curved shower curtain rods. There is no faster and easier way to upgrade, remodel, makeover, redecorate your fiberglass bathroom shower, period! Tools necessary: (Phillips head) screw driver or screw gun, measuring tape, pencil, and a step stool are recommended. Optional: a level, speed square. Includes all mounting hardware and instructions, including video. Skill level : easy peazy.

With floor to ceiling windows, this luxurious lake house was designed to showcase every breathtaking view throughout the home. With a Savant system, Spire integrated the technology to be controlled on demand as to not detract from the home’s beauty or scenery. Hidden Motorized Window Treatments With the installation of dual motorized Lutron shades throughout the home, the client has the ability to choose how they want to enjoy the view with just the touch of a button. The sheer shades provide protection from the sun, while the blackout shades provide complete privacy.Custom staggered shades were installed for complete coverage of the corner to corner glass windows. When not in use, the shades are completely hidden inside custom made soffits. Lighting Control System The Lutron RadioRA2 Lighting Control provides our clients the ability to customize the level of illuminating ambiance they desire from kitchen to the family room and throughout their entire home. Set the mood, bright for entertaining or dim for relaxing. The ease of controlling the levels of lighting with a touch of a button is technology at its finest. Home Theater Room With the Epson projector and B&W speakers that we’ve installed in the Theater Room, our clients can relax and enjoy their favorite movie as if they were in a high quality theater without having to leave home. Whole Home Audio System Guests won’t miss a beat as they roam from room to room with the resonating sound of the audio system equipped with B&W Speakers installed throughout the entire home. This sound system provides a great background when entertaining guests or sitting back and relaxing by the fireplace. Hidden Entertainment When a TV stand is just too intrusive, a drop down projector is the perfect solution. With a push of a button, the master bedroom can transform from a relaxing oasis to an entertainment space. The projector lowers from the ceiling, the lights dim and audio plays from the in-ceiling speakers. The motorized shades lower and provide a solid backdrop for enjoying a movie. The possibilities are endless with Spire’s home integration solution. Contact us for information on how we can integrate the latest technology into your home.

Another unique ShowerCrown. "Acropolis" Incorporates a column faced design across it's length, symbolizing strength and durability of design, a great choice for a mans bath. Named for it's unique ability to capture and refract light and shadows along it's entire profile, Acropolis adds stature to any bathroom. Derived from Classical Greek and Roman architecture, it comes primed in white for painting, utilizes the same 15 second installation as with all ShowerCrowns. They are designed for use in humid environments. Dimensions: 7.25 inches tall, x 1.5 inches inch deep x approximately 60 inches long. Super durable, lightweight Polymer will never rot, mold or mildew. "Acropolis" is available in straight or curved varieties for use in front of straight or curved shower curtain rods. There is no faster and easier way to upgrade, remodel, makeover, redecorate your fiberglass bathroom shower, period! Tools necessary: (Phillips head) screw driver or screw gun, measuring tape, pencil, and a step stool are recommended. Optional: a level, speed square. Includes all mounting hardware and instructions, including video. Skill level : easy peazy.

Another unique ShowerCrown. "Acropolis" Incorporates a column faced design across it's length, symbolizing strength and durability of design, a great choice for a mans bath. Named for it's unique ability to capture and refract light and shadows along it's entire profile, Acropolis adds stature to any bathroom. Derived from Classical Greek and Roman architecture, it comes primed in white for painting, utilizes the same 15 second installation as with all ShowerCrowns. They are designed for use in humid environments. Dimensions: 7.25 inches tall, x 1.5 inches inch deep x approximately 60 inches long. Super durable, lightweight Polymer will never rot, mold or mildew. "Acropolis" is available in straight or curved varieties for use in front of straight or curved shower curtain rods. There is no faster and easier way to upgrade, remodel, makeover, redecorate your fiberglass bathroom shower, period! Tools necessary: (Phillips head) screw driver or screw gun, measuring tape, pencil, and a step stool are recommended. Optional: a level, speed square. Includes all mounting hardware and instructions, including video. Skill level : easy peazy.

The first step to creating your outdoor paradise is to get your dreams on paper. Let Creative Environments professional landscape designers listen to your needs, visions, and experiences to convert them to a visually stunning landscape design! Our ability to produce architectural drawings, colorful presentations, 3D visuals, and construction– build documents will assure your project comes out the way you want it! And with 60 years of design– build experience, several landscape designers on staff, and a full CAD/3D studio at our disposal, you will get a level of professionalism unmatched by other firms.

Rustic and modern design elements complement one another in this 2,480 sq. ft. three bedroom, two and a half bath custom modern farmhouse. Abundant natural light and face nailed wide plank white pine floors carry throughout the entire home along with plenty of built-in storage, a stunning white kitchen, and cozy brick fireplace. Photos by Tessa Manning

This sleek, minimalist hood features Zephyr Connect, giving you the ability to control it from anywhere, including from your smart speaker — and it discreetly mounts into the ceiling above your cooking surface for power and an unobstructed view. Your kitchen will stay clean and smoke free with the Perimeter Aspiration System and multiple blower options, and the tri-level BriteStrip™ LED lighting ensures a good-looking glow. Available in white and stainless steel. Control your range hood from anywhere using your mobile device with the Zephyr Connect app. Get real-time diagnostics and product information, and connect to smart devices such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home smart speakers. Download on mobile from the Apple App Store and Google Play today.

Architect: Portuondo Perotti Architects Photography: Carlos Domenech “This is well detailed and consistent inside and out. It is a classic Mediterranean Revival in the Floridian tradition of Mizner.” This single-family residential home in Gables Estates, Coral Gables, Florida, successfully pays respect to the architecture of the Mediterranean and Renaissance Italian styles. From the use of courtyards to the high level of detailing, this project emphasizes the most picturesque and expressive qualities of these styles. The residence reflects the visions of two of Coral Gables’ first architects, who designed beautiful and timeless architecture in this garden city to become a lasting piece in the landscape. This project not only captures the breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, but with timeless style and lush landscaping, it creates a centerpiece for the view from the bay to Coral Gables. The home is designed as a long gallery, with spaces connected by courtyards and public realms. Another large inspiration for this project was the idea of the garden and landscape. With Coral Gables as a garden city, landscape became an integral part of the conception and design. The durability of Marvin products, their ability to stand up to the South Florida climate, as well as the Marvin attention to detail and proportion, made them the perfect choice to employ in a project of such high standards. The range of products allowed the freedom of design to explore all possibilities and turn visions into reality. The result was a lasting piece of architecture that would reflect a level of detail in every part of its structure. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Round Top Window Marvin Ultimate Arch Top French Door Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door Marvin Ultimate Venting Picture Window Marvin Casemaster

Shooting Star Photography In Collaboration with Charles Cudd Co.
Patio - mid-sized contemporary backyard tile patio idea in Minneapolis with a roof extension

This laundry room-pantry combo space makes so much sense. Designer: Nicole Muzechka (Calgary Photos)
Inspiration for a transitional single-wall ceramic tile utility room remodel in Calgary with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, gray walls, a side-by-side washer/dryer and quartzite countertops

The Cape Collection by Couristan features a subtle, yet sophisticated range of colors that were selected to enhance the appearance of its refined linear horizontal patterns. Perfect for stylish sunrooms, lively patios and those outdoor living spaces that are designed for entertaining, Cape's three transitional design choices, Barnstable, Harwich and Hyannis have the ability to complement the latest fashions in outdoor and casual indoor furniture. Hosting a wide range of decorating possibilities. Offering the perfect outdoor floor covering solution for your home, the Cape Collection takes outdoor/indoor area rugs to a new level of sophistication that will blend effortlessly with any style of home, patio or decking furniture pieces.