Beach style light wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash and an island

Inspiration for a large contemporary beige floor and light wood floor indoor basketball/tennis/multi-game court remodel in Minneapolis with black walls

Utility room - contemporary utility room idea in DC Metro with flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, wood countertops, a side-by-side washer/dryer and beige walls

Contemporary bathroom accessorized with Schlage Century Style Privacy Latitude Lever in Aged Bronze
Trendy bathroom photo in Indianapolis

John Cole Photography
Inspiration for a modern shed remodel in DC Metro

Photo: Kayla Stark © 2015 Houzz
Inspiration for a mid-century modern living room remodel in New Orleans

Daniel Kelleghan
Inspiration for a transitional beige tile bathroom remodel in Chicago with an undermount sink, dark wood cabinets and beaded inset cabinets

The photography studio is located on the ground floor for easy loading and unloading. The floors are made of rubber which is not only durable but also shock absorbent. Floors: rubberflooringinc.com Photo: Margot Hartford © 2014 Houzz

Jewett Farms + Co’s Reclaimed Antique Black Walnut flooring has been sourced from turn of the century barns where it was used sporadically as joists, beams and girders. The timbers have a rich, deep chocolate hue with some lighter swirls and an overall sophisticated dark tone. Reclaimed black walnut displays some sound checking, mineral stains, occasional sound knots and nail holes alongside the swirling grain pattern. Jewett Farms + Co’s Reclaimed Antique Black Walnut wide plank flooring is available to be shipped throughout the United States from our New England headquarters. Black walnut is a versatile and beautiful wood. It finishes well, absorbs shock and shrinks very little when dried making it a prized wood for many applications from gun barrels to airplane propellers. Black walnut makes an outstanding hardwood floor but, because of its slow growth (at least 60 years for a reasonably large trunk), over harvesting has made this a rare species for flooring use. Black walnut is typically cut into very thin sheets and used as veneer. In fact it has become so difficult to get hold of that some states report numerous black walnut thefts each year.

The owner wanted his sound studio to feel more domesticated than the typical corporate music studio.

Paul Dyer Photography
Elegant dark wood floor kitchen photo in San Francisco with beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances and marble backsplash

I used a mixture of outdoor friendly containers to help keep this storage space tidy and organized. Rubber black bins house dog toys, pool toys, and spa cleaners. Small metal buckets were used for paintbrushes

Want an HGTV Styled Room? Get an Accent Wall If you’re moving into a new apartment/home or you’re finally getting to that laundry list of renovations; here’s one statement piece that will set your place apart from the rest: an accent wall. An accent wall is simply a wall that features a color that's different from the rest of the walls. It could be a green wall along the sea of beige walls or a peach wall amongst a palette of white walls. It serves as an eye-opener for guests entering the room, delivering an upbeat, fresh tone in your house. Still need more convincing on why you need an accent wall? Here's a list of how accent walls are an absolute game-changer for your place: It gives your room personality. This rule is pretty straightforward. Add a bright or even neutral color to just one wall, and it will make any room pop. The key is to select colors that play up a specific area in your home. If you have a girl nursery room, you can paint one wall cotton candy pink to highlight the plush toys and brightly colored crib. To make your office space look more "official," emphasize your creative zone with a black, front-facing accent wall that shows off your flashy accessories and computers while giving you the perfect color to concentrate in. It modernizes your place without serious renovations. Since most homes typically have similarly painted walls and tones, and accent wall gives off a modern, almost futuristic vibe. Accent walls naturally draw in our eyes, and its color distinction causes objects in the room to take a unique form. Instead of budgeting funds for new furniture, hone in a cool bohemian look with a cinnamon brown accent wall. To play up the bohemian vibes, you can add wooden accessories like tables, picture frames, vases, or compliment the brown with some colorful green houseplants! Accent walls also work as an accessory. Living in a minimalist space? No problem! An accent wall with a bright, unique hue will doll up your area without you having to add more objects. A burnt orange accent wall is the perfect look for a living room space accompanied by a tall plant, rug, sofa, and coffee table. The burnt orange opens up the room, drawing all eyes to the playful contrast of the plant’s green against the orange while balancing the place out with a neutral rug and a wooden coffee table to play up earthy tones. People will think you spent all day decorating your room when in reality you only painted one wall. You can manipulate your room to look bigger or smaller. Accent walls have a science behind them depending on what color palette you select. If you’re rooming in a small space, to make it look bigger use bright colors like lemon yellow or French roses pink to make your room more reflective, maximizing all the natural light coming in. This will leave your room feeling open and breezy. On the contrast, if you are stuck with too much space, or want to minimize a corner as a small reading nook, use dark colors like seaweed green to absorb light and tighten up the space. Hopefully, this list was able to get you excited to kick-off your new (or next set) of accent walls. Feel free to marathon HGTV while you paint or wait for the painters to arrive. Stay tuned for future pieces on how to accentuate and best practices for painting!

Having shown the sample board in the prior photo, you now see the finished knockdown texture effect using an Allegheny Brown tinted clay plaster. Notice the mirror is reflecting the sueded leather effect of the other three surrounding walls that were also troweled with the same tinted clay plaster. Since clay plaster "breathes" it absorbs humidity resulting from a running shower, but gradually exhausts that moisture so it's not prone to mildew typical of most bathrooms, yet another benefit of this natural, "eco" green plaster.

Coco coir is a versatile and sustainable growing medium that is gaining popularity among gardeners. Made from the fibrous husk of coconuts, it’s an eco-friendly alternative to peat moss and can greatly enhance the quality of your soil. In gardening, it is often utilized in systems like Coco Coir Hydroponic, where it helps create an efficient water and nutrient delivery system. What is Coco Coir? Coco coir is a natural fiber extracted from coconut husks. It has a neutral pH, excellent water retention, and is reusable, making it a favorite among gardeners who prefer organic and sustainable practices. It is available in different forms such as blocks, bricks, or loose coir, each requiring some preparation before use in gardening. Benefits of Using Coco Coir in Gardening Coco coir offers several advantages for gardening. Here are the benefits of using coco coir in gardening: Holds up to 10 times its weight in water, ensuring plants have consistent moisture. Promotes oxygen flow to plant roots, leading to healthier root systems. Coco coir is a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to peat moss. It can be washed, rehydrated, and reused, reducing waste. Naturally pH neutral, making it suitable for various plants without major adjustments. Enhances the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. How to Prepare Coco Coir for Planting Preparing coco coir for planting involves a few essential steps. First, you need to hydrate the coir block, as it typically comes in a compressed form. Place the block in a large container and add warm water, allowing the block to expand and absorb the water. Once fully expanded, the coir should be fluffed up by breaking it apart with your hands or a tool to ensure it becomes loose and airy. After the coir has been fluffed, it is important to drain any excess water, as overly wet coir can lead to root suffocation. Finally, since coco coir is inert and does not contain nutrients, it’s a good idea to add organic compost or liquid fertilizer to enrich the coir before planting. Do You Need to Soak Coco Coir Before Planting? Yes, soaking coco coir before planting is necessary. Since it comes in a compressed form, it needs to be broken down and hydrated for proper use. The soaking process allows the coir to expand and release the fibers, making it usable as a growing medium. After soaking, the coir should be fluffed to ensure the water is evenly distributed. Draining any excess water is crucial because overly wet coir may impede plant root health. How to Prepare Coco Peat for Planting Coco peat, a fine, powdery form of coco coir, is highly beneficial for seed starting and improving water retention in soil. To prepare coco peat, it first needs to be hydrated, similar to how you prepare coir blocks. Slowly add water to the peat in a container and allow it to absorb and fluff up. Once hydrated, coco peat can be used on its own or mixed with other growing media such as perlite or vermiculite for added aeration and drainage. It is advisable to check the pH level of your final mix, as coco peat generally has a neutral pH, but adjustments may be necessary depending on the plants being grown. Can You Use Just Coco Coir for Plants? Yes, coco coir can be used by itself to grow plants, especially in hydroponic systems or as a seed-starting medium. However, because coco coir does not naturally contain nutrients, you will need to provide regular fertilizer to support plant growth. This makes it particularly suitable for plants grown in controlled environments, such as hydroponics, where nutrient solutions can be carefully managed. In traditional soil-based gardening, mixing coco coir with other organic materials like compost is recommended to provide essential nutrients and improve the overall soil structure. How to Use Coco Coir in Hydroponics Coco coir is widely used in hydroponic systems due to its water retention and aeration properties. To use coco coir in hydroponics, it first needs to be soaked and hydrated, as discussed earlier. Once the coir is fully prepared, it can be placed in the hydroponic system. Since coco coir does not contain natural nutrients, you will need to supply a balanced nutrient solution tailored for hydroponic plants. Regular monitoring of water and nutrient levels is essential to prevent nutrient imbalances or root rot. One of the benefits of coco coir in hydroponics is its reusability. After completing a growing cycle, the coir can be washed, rehydrated, and used again in future plantings. Using Coco Coir as a Soil Amendment Coco coir is also an excellent soil amendment, as it improves the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. To use coco coir in this way, mix loose coir with your existing garden soil at a ratio of one part coco coir to two parts soil. This will help retain moisture without compacting the soil, improving both water drainage and root growth. For optimal results, you can also add organic compost to the mix, ensuring that the nutrient levels are sufficient for plant growth. Coco coir works particularly well in raised beds, where it helps maintain proper soil structure over time. Advantages of Using Coco Coir Over Peat Moss While peat moss has been traditionally used as a growing medium, coco coir offers several advantages over it. Coco coir is a renewable resource, as it is a byproduct of coconut processing, while peat moss is harvested from peat bogs that take centuries to regenerate. Coco coir is also more durable, as it can be reused multiple times without breaking down, while peat moss disintegrates after a single use. Another key benefit is its neutral pH, whereas peat moss is more acidic and may require balancing to meet the needs of specific plants. Conclusion Coco coir is a highly versatile and sustainable growing medium that benefits both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you are using it for hydroponics, as a soil amendment, or as a standalone medium for growing plants, knowing how to properly prepare and use it is key to maximizing its benefits. By following the steps detailed above, you can improve water retention, aeration, and overall plant health in your garden, all while contributing to eco-friendly gardening practices.

Do you know what ends our time of enjoying the wonderful Fall colors? Rain. The other day when it rained, it took most of those bright yellow leaves and brought them to the ground. It saddened me not only because the colors were gone, but now the leaves have to be cleaned up. And with the trees being larger, those leaves went everywhere. All over the ground, in the tall bushes, stuck on the window sills, lodged in the gutters and up at the chimney. Nature’s going to happen so, what are the effects of Fall rain and the Chimney? Let’s take a further look. Fall Rain and the Chimney The Fall leaves are gorgeous and fall is many homeowners favorite time of year. But as with all seasons, it comes to an end. The Fall rain combined with wind takes those colorful leaves and distributes them…everywhere. Especially on the roof where your chimney is located. By having an annual chimney inspection, we’ll take a look to ensure the safety of your chimney stays intact for the upcoming harsher season: Winter. The Exterior Chimney With Fall, we have two of the elements to be concerned about and that’s the leaves and rain. Here are a few areas we check and the effects of fall rain and the chimney. Let’s start at the top: Chimney Cap: The chimney cap is vital for protecting the opening of your chimney which leads to the interior of your home. We inspect the chimney cap ensuring it is tightly secured to the exterior chimney termination. The chimney is typically the tallest part of your home and gets exposed to the harshest winds, rain, snow, animals and blowing debris. All of that hits the chimney cap trying to find that weak spot so it can get inside the chimney. If it does, that debris is easily ignited and can cause harm to your home. Chimney Crown: This is the slab of concrete that covers the chimney and extends beyond the bricks or materials that make up the chimney. This is to provide protection from the elements. But remember the chimney crown can also develop cracks over time. This is where crown coat can extend the life of the chimney crown ensuring the elements stay where they should… outside. Brick, Stone and Mortar: The structure of the chimney can be made of brick, stone or other materials. If it is made of brick or stone, then mortar is involved. All of these materials are porous, meaning that it can absorb water and snow melt, which breaks down over time. As a result, this needs to be checked looking for loose bricks, missing mortar, cracks in either one of these materials and more. Tuckpointing is a good solution to ensure the elements stay out. The use of Chimney Saver is a great way to preserve the bricks, stones and mortar as it waterproofs and protects the materials for about 8 – 10 years and slows down the aging process. Flashing: This is the material that protects the connection of the roof to the chimney. A critical and common area for leaks. The flashing moves the water away from the chimney and down the roof. The flashing adheres to the chimney with a seal, which dries out over time. This area needs to be checked to ensure the seal is strong and doesn’t allow water to get in. Before the cold sets in and you want to turn on or fire up the fireplace, be sure to take into consideration the effects of fall rain and the chimney. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to set up an appointment.

Luxury Basement Remodel Featuring Spa, Home Gym, Gun Room, and Full Kitchen This luxury basement remodel redefines what a lower level can be, transforming unused square footage into a fully immersive lifestyle environment. Designed with intention, precision, and premium materials, this space blends wellness, security, fitness, and entertainment into one cohesive custom basement design that feels elevated, warm, and unmistakably high-end. From the moment you enter, this luxury basement remodel feels open and expansive. Wide-plank flooring flows seamlessly throughout the space, creating visual continuity while adding warmth rarely seen in traditional basements. Clean architectural lines and thoughtful zoning allow each area to stand on its own while still feeling connected as part of a complete design. Basement Spa and Sauna Retreat A standout feature of this luxury basement remodel is the private basement spa, designed to deliver a true retreat experience within the home. The custom glass-enclosed sauna acts as both a functional wellness feature and a striking architectural element. Natural wood surfaces wrap the interior, bringing warmth, texture, and a calming atmosphere that mirrors high-end resort spas. Integrated LED lighting enhances the natural wood grain while providing soft, ambient illumination. The stone sauna heater anchors the space visually while delivering consistent heat for daily use. Glass walls allow light to flow freely, preventing the space from feeling closed in and reinforcing the open feel of the overall custom basement design. This basement spa was designed not as an accessory, but as a core component of the luxury basement remodel—supporting health, relaxation, and everyday wellness. Custom Gun Room and Secure Display Space Security meets craftsmanship in the custom gun room, a defining element of this luxury basement remodel. Designed to function as both a secure storage solution and a refined display space, the room balances protection with presentation. Precision-mounted wall panels allow firearms and accessories to be displayed in a clean, organized layout. Integrated LED lighting highlights each piece while adding depth and contrast to the room. Custom wood framing ties the space into the broader custom basement design, ensuring visual consistency throughout the project. Lower cabinetry provides concealed storage while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. Climate control and security were integrated seamlessly, creating a room that is as practical as it is visually impressive. Home Gym Basement with Professional Design This home gym basement was designed to rival commercial fitness facilities while maintaining the comfort and privacy of a residential environment. The layout supports strength training, functional workouts, and cardio without feeling crowded or overwhelming. Mirrored walls expand the space visually and provide practical training feedback. Heavy-duty flooring absorbs impact and minimizes noise, making the gym ideal for daily use. Overhead, a custom LED grid ceiling delivers even, shadow-free lighting, elevating both functionality and aesthetics. As part of the overall luxury basement remodel, the gym connects naturally to adjacent spaces, reinforcing the idea that fitness is integrated into everyday living—not isolated or hidden away. Basement with Full Kitchen and Entertaining Space Designed for hosting and everyday use, the basement with full kitchen anchors the entertainment zone of this luxury basement remodel. Custom cabinetry offers ample storage while maintaining clean lines and a refined appearance. Premium countertops provide durability and visual impact, serving as both a workspace and gathering point. Integrated appliances ensure full functionality without disrupting the design. Layered lighting enhances usability and atmosphere, making the kitchen equally suited for casual evenings or large gatherings. This basement with full kitchen allows the space to function independently from the main level, adding both convenience and long-term value. Luxury Tile Basement Details Tile plays a key role throughout this luxury tile basement, serving as a design feature rather than just a finish. Carefully selected tile textures and patterns add depth and visual interest to accent walls and functional areas. Each tile installation was executed with precision, showcasing clean transitions and expert craftsmanship. The tile selections complement the surrounding wood and stone elements, reinforcing the layered material palette that defines this custom basement design. Craftsmanship That Defines the Space What sets this luxury basement remodel apart is the attention to detail in every element. Custom millwork, seamless trim transitions, and intentional lighting design elevate the space beyond typical basement renovations. Ceilings are treated as design features, walls are crisp and refined, and built-in elements feel integrated rather than added. This level of craftsmanship ensures the basement feels timeless, durable, and thoughtfully designed. A Custom Basement Design Built for Lifestyle This project demonstrates how a custom basement design can become one of the most valuable and lived-in areas of a home. By combining a basement spa, secure gun room, home gym basement, basement with full kitchen, and luxury tile finishes, this space delivers unmatched versatility and comfort. This luxury basement remodel is not simply an upgrade—it is a complete transformation that enhances daily living while adding long-term value.

This was originally a bedroom with an office. The diving wall was knocked down, and the hydronic baseboard heat was in the dividing wall, and underneath the window were moved across the room. With the wall gone, the best option for the TV was for it to be mounted on the ceiling. The electric was ran along with an HDMI cord from the cable box near the foot of the bed. Recessed lights with LED trims were ran throughout the bedroom, and closet, and a new light for above the bed. New laminate flooring was installed to make for a seem less look and flow to the room. The closet was extended 4' and a door way, and hall closet were eliminated. An air return that was in the hall closet was relocated to inside the wall of the closet. An Anderson 100 series door was framed out and installed with custom trim to match the rest of the room and trim on the first floor. The project was capped off with the textured walls being matched, and painting from floor to ceiling

Luxury Basement Remodel Featuring Spa, Home Gym, Gun Room, and Full Kitchen This luxury basement remodel redefines what a lower level can be, transforming unused square footage into a fully immersive lifestyle environment. Designed with intention, precision, and premium materials, this space blends wellness, security, fitness, and entertainment into one cohesive custom basement design that feels elevated, warm, and unmistakably high-end. From the moment you enter, this luxury basement remodel feels open and expansive. Wide-plank flooring flows seamlessly throughout the space, creating visual continuity while adding warmth rarely seen in traditional basements. Clean architectural lines and thoughtful zoning allow each area to stand on its own while still feeling connected as part of a complete design. Basement Spa and Sauna Retreat A standout feature of this luxury basement remodel is the private basement spa, designed to deliver a true retreat experience within the home. The custom glass-enclosed sauna acts as both a functional wellness feature and a striking architectural element. Natural wood surfaces wrap the interior, bringing warmth, texture, and a calming atmosphere that mirrors high-end resort spas. Integrated LED lighting enhances the natural wood grain while providing soft, ambient illumination. The stone sauna heater anchors the space visually while delivering consistent heat for daily use. Glass walls allow light to flow freely, preventing the space from feeling closed in and reinforcing the open feel of the overall custom basement design. This basement spa was designed not as an accessory, but as a core component of the luxury basement remodel—supporting health, relaxation, and everyday wellness. Custom Gun Room and Secure Display Space Security meets craftsmanship in the custom gun room, a defining element of this luxury basement remodel. Designed to function as both a secure storage solution and a refined display space, the room balances protection with presentation. Precision-mounted wall panels allow firearms and accessories to be displayed in a clean, organized layout. Integrated LED lighting highlights each piece while adding depth and contrast to the room. Custom wood framing ties the space into the broader custom basement design, ensuring visual consistency throughout the project. Lower cabinetry provides concealed storage while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. Climate control and security were integrated seamlessly, creating a room that is as practical as it is visually impressive. Home Gym Basement with Professional Design This home gym basement was designed to rival commercial fitness facilities while maintaining the comfort and privacy of a residential environment. The layout supports strength training, functional workouts, and cardio without feeling crowded or overwhelming. Mirrored walls expand the space visually and provide practical training feedback. Heavy-duty flooring absorbs impact and minimizes noise, making the gym ideal for daily use. Overhead, a custom LED grid ceiling delivers even, shadow-free lighting, elevating both functionality and aesthetics. As part of the overall luxury basement remodel, the gym connects naturally to adjacent spaces, reinforcing the idea that fitness is integrated into everyday living—not isolated or hidden away. Basement with Full Kitchen and Entertaining Space Designed for hosting and everyday use, the basement with full kitchen anchors the entertainment zone of this luxury basement remodel. Custom cabinetry offers ample storage while maintaining clean lines and a refined appearance. Premium countertops provide durability and visual impact, serving as both a workspace and gathering point. Integrated appliances ensure full functionality without disrupting the design. Layered lighting enhances usability and atmosphere, making the kitchen equally suited for casual evenings or large gatherings. This basement with full kitchen allows the space to function independently from the main level, adding both convenience and long-term value. Luxury Tile Basement Details Tile plays a key role throughout this luxury tile basement, serving as a design feature rather than just a finish. Carefully selected tile textures and patterns add depth and visual interest to accent walls and functional areas. Each tile installation was executed with precision, showcasing clean transitions and expert craftsmanship. The tile selections complement the surrounding wood and stone elements, reinforcing the layered material palette that defines this custom basement design. Craftsmanship That Defines the Space What sets this luxury basement remodel apart is the attention to detail in every element. Custom millwork, seamless trim transitions, and intentional lighting design elevate the space beyond typical basement renovations. Ceilings are treated as design features, walls are crisp and refined, and built-in elements feel integrated rather than added. This level of craftsmanship ensures the basement feels timeless, durable, and thoughtfully designed. A Custom Basement Design Built for Lifestyle This project demonstrates how a custom basement design can become one of the most valuable and lived-in areas of a home. By combining a basement spa, secure gun room, home gym basement, basement with full kitchen, and luxury tile finishes, this space delivers unmatched versatility and comfort. This luxury basement remodel is not simply an upgrade—it is a complete transformation that enhances daily living while adding long-term value.