A captivating transformation in the coveted neighborhood of University Park, Dallas The heart of this home lies in the kitchen, where we embarked on a design endeavor that would leave anyone speechless. By opening up the main kitchen wall, we created a magnificent window system that floods the space with natural light and offers a breathtaking view of the picturesque surroundings. Suspended from the ceiling, a steel-framed marble vent hood floats a few inches from the window, showcasing a mesmerizing Lilac Marble. The same marble is skillfully applied to the backsplash and island, featuring a bold combination of color and pattern that exudes elegance. Adding to the kitchen's allure is the Italian range, which not only serves as a showstopper but offers robust culinary features for even the savviest of cooks. However, the true masterpiece of the kitchen lies in the honed reeded marble-faced island. Each marble strip was meticulously cut and crafted by artisans to achieve a half-rounded profile, resulting in an island that is nothing short of breathtaking. This intricate process took several months, but the end result speaks for itself. To complement the grandeur of the kitchen, we designed a combination of stain-grade and paint-grade cabinets in a thin raised panel door style. This choice adds an elegant yet simple look to the overall design. Inside each cabinet and drawer, custom interiors were meticulously designed to provide maximum functionality and organization for the day-to-day cooking activities. A vintage Turkish runner dating back to the 1960s, evokes a sense of history and character. The breakfast nook boasts a stunning, vivid, and colorful artwork created by one of Dallas' top artist, Kyle Steed, who is revered for his mastery of his craft. Some of our favorite art pieces from the inspiring Haylee Yale grace the coffee station and media console, adding the perfect moment to pause and loose yourself in the story of her art. The project extends beyond the kitchen into the living room, where the family's changing needs and growing children demanded a new design approach. Accommodating their new lifestyle, we incorporated a large sectional for family bonding moments while watching TV. The living room now boasts bolder colors, striking artwork a coffered accent wall, and cayenne velvet curtains that create an inviting atmosphere. Completing the room is a custom 22' x 15' rug, adding warmth and comfort to the space. A hidden coat closet door integrated into the feature wall adds an element of surprise and functionality. This project is not just about aesthetics; it's about pushing the boundaries of design and showcasing the possibilities. By curating an out-of-the-box approach, we bring texture and depth to the space, employing different materials and original applications. The layered design achieved through repeated use of the same material in various forms, shapes, and locations demonstrates that unexpected elements can create breathtaking results. The reason behind this redesign and remodel was the homeowners' desire to have a kitchen that not only provided functionality but also served as a beautiful backdrop to their cherished family moments. The previous kitchen lacked the "wow" factor they desired, prompting them to seek our expertise in creating a space that would be a source of joy and inspiration. Inspired by well-curated European vignettes, sculptural elements, clean lines, and a natural color scheme with pops of color, this design reflects an elegant organic modern style. Mixing metals, contrasting textures, and utilizing clean lines were key elements in achieving the desired aesthetic. The living room introduces bolder moments and a carefully chosen color scheme that adds character and personality. The client's must-haves were clear: they wanted a show stopping centerpiece for their home, enhanced natural light in the kitchen, and a design that reflected their family's dynamic. With the transformation of the range wall into a wall of windows, we fulfilled their desire for abundant natural light and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Our favorite rooms and design elements are numerous, but the kitchen remains a standout feature. The painstaking process of hand-cutting and crafting each reeded panel in the island to match the marble's veining resulted in a labor of love that emanates warmth and hospitality to all who enter. In conclusion, this tastefully lux project in University Park, Dallas is an extraordinary example of a full gut remodel that has surpassed all expectations. The meticulous attention to detail, the masterful use of materials, and the seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics create an unforgettable space. It serves as a testament to the power of design and the transformative impact it can have on a home and its inhabitants. Project by Texas' Urbanology Designs. Their North Richland Hills-based interior design studio serves Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, Fort Worth, and upscale clients nationwide.

This Greek Revival row house in Boerum Hill was previously owned by a local architect who renovated it several times, including the addition of a two-story steel and glass extension at the rear. The new owners came to us seeking to restore the house and its original formality, while adapting it to the modern needs of a family of five. The detailing of the 25 x 36 foot structure had been lost and required some sleuthing into the history of Greek Revival style in historic Brooklyn neighborhoods. In addition to completely re-framing the interior, the house also required a new south-facing brick façade due to significant deterioration. The modern extension was replaced with a more traditionally detailed wood and copper- clad bay, still open to natural light and the garden view without sacrificing comfort. The kitchen was relocated from the first floor to the garden level with an adjacent formal dining room. Both rooms were enlarged from their previous iterations to accommodate weekly dinners with extended family. The kitchen includes a home office and breakfast nook that doubles as a homework station. The cellar level was further excavated to accommodate finished storage space and a playroom where activity can be monitored from the kitchen workspaces. The parlor floor is now reserved for entertaining. New pocket doors can be closed to separate the formal front parlor from the more relaxed back portion, where the family plays games or watches TV together. At the end of the hall, a powder room with brass details, and a luxe bar with antique mirrored backsplash and stone tile flooring, leads to the deck and direct garden access. Because of the property width, the house is able to provide ample space for the interior program within a shorter footprint. This allows the garden to remain expansive, with a small lawn for play, an outdoor food preparation area with a cast-in-place concrete bench, and a place for entertaining towards the rear. The newly designed landscaping will continue to develop, further enhancing the yard’s feeling of escape, and filling-in the views from the kitchen and back parlor above. A less visible, but equally as conscious, addition is a rooftop PV solar array that provides nearly 100% of the daily electrical usage, with the exception of the AC system on hot summer days. The well-appointed interiors connect the traditional backdrop of the home to a youthful take on classic design and functionality. The materials are elegant without being precious, accommodating a young, growing family. Unique colors and patterns provide a feeling of luxury while inviting inhabitants and guests to relax and enjoy this classic Brooklyn brownstone. This project won runner-up in the architecture category for the 2017 NYC&G Innovation in Design Awards and was featured in The American House: 100 Contemporary Homes. Photography by Francis Dzikowski / OTTO

A captivating transformation in the coveted neighborhood of University Park, Dallas The heart of this home lies in the kitchen, where we embarked on a design endeavor that would leave anyone speechless. By opening up the main kitchen wall, we created a magnificent window system that floods the space with natural light and offers a breathtaking view of the picturesque surroundings. Suspended from the ceiling, a steel-framed marble vent hood floats a few inches from the window, showcasing a mesmerizing Lilac Marble. The same marble is skillfully applied to the backsplash and island, featuring a bold combination of color and pattern that exudes elegance. Adding to the kitchen's allure is the Italian range, which not only serves as a showstopper but offers robust culinary features for even the savviest of cooks. However, the true masterpiece of the kitchen lies in the honed reeded marble-faced island. Each marble strip was meticulously cut and crafted by artisans to achieve a half-rounded profile, resulting in an island that is nothing short of breathtaking. This intricate process took several months, but the end result speaks for itself. To complement the grandeur of the kitchen, we designed a combination of stain-grade and paint-grade cabinets in a thin raised panel door style. This choice adds an elegant yet simple look to the overall design. Inside each cabinet and drawer, custom interiors were meticulously designed to provide maximum functionality and organization for the day-to-day cooking activities. A vintage Turkish runner dating back to the 1960s, evokes a sense of history and character. The breakfast nook boasts a stunning, vivid, and colorful artwork created by one of Dallas' top artist, Kyle Steed, who is revered for his mastery of his craft. Some of our favorite art pieces from the inspiring Haylee Yale grace the coffee station and media console, adding the perfect moment to pause and loose yourself in the story of her art. The project extends beyond the kitchen into the living room, where the family's changing needs and growing children demanded a new design approach. Accommodating their new lifestyle, we incorporated a large sectional for family bonding moments while watching TV. The living room now boasts bolder colors, striking artwork a coffered accent wall, and cayenne velvet curtains that create an inviting atmosphere. Completing the room is a custom 22' x 15' rug, adding warmth and comfort to the space. A hidden coat closet door integrated into the feature wall adds an element of surprise and functionality. This project is not just about aesthetics; it's about pushing the boundaries of design and showcasing the possibilities. By curating an out-of-the-box approach, we bring texture and depth to the space, employing different materials and original applications. The layered design achieved through repeated use of the same material in various forms, shapes, and locations demonstrates that unexpected elements can create breathtaking results. The reason behind this redesign and remodel was the homeowners' desire to have a kitchen that not only provided functionality but also served as a beautiful backdrop to their cherished family moments. The previous kitchen lacked the "wow" factor they desired, prompting them to seek our expertise in creating a space that would be a source of joy and inspiration. Inspired by well-curated European vignettes, sculptural elements, clean lines, and a natural color scheme with pops of color, this design reflects an elegant organic modern style. Mixing metals, contrasting textures, and utilizing clean lines were key elements in achieving the desired aesthetic. The living room introduces bolder moments and a carefully chosen color scheme that adds character and personality. The client's must-haves were clear: they wanted a show stopping centerpiece for their home, enhanced natural light in the kitchen, and a design that reflected their family's dynamic. With the transformation of the range wall into a wall of windows, we fulfilled their desire for abundant natural light and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Our favorite rooms and design elements are numerous, but the kitchen remains a standout feature. The painstaking process of hand-cutting and crafting each reeded panel in the island to match the marble's veining resulted in a labor of love that emanates warmth and hospitality to all who enter. In conclusion, this tastefully lux project in University Park, Dallas is an extraordinary example of a full gut remodel that has surpassed all expectations. The meticulous attention to detail, the masterful use of materials, and the seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics create an unforgettable space. It serves as a testament to the power of design and the transformative impact it can have on a home and its inhabitants. Project by Texas' Urbanology Designs. Their North Richland Hills-based interior design studio serves Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, Fort Worth, and upscale clients nationwide.

Open shelving provides the perfect place to put personality on display.
Example of an eclectic single-wall open concept kitchen design in New York with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, wood countertops, gray backsplash and stainless steel appliances

Sean Litchfield
Example of a trendy bedroom design in New York with gray walls

An all-electric kitchen. Sunlight spills into the high ceilings through skylights and transom windows so artificial lighting use can be minimized. All appliances are electric, materials are natural and durable.

RadioActive Electronics was created to serve a need to homeowners and businesses seeking help with installation of new technology in audio and video products like televisions, home theater systems, and the integration of sound and video systems for commercial establishments. We specialize in security and home theater and we seek a long-lasting relationship with our customers.

RadioActive Electronics was created to serve a need to homeowners and businesses seeking help with installation of new technology in audio and video products like televisions, home theater systems, and the integration of sound and video systems for commercial establishments. We specialize in security and home theater and we seek a long-lasting relationship with our customers.

Inspiration for a huge tropical patio remodel in Miami

RadioActive Electronics was created to serve a need to homeowners and businesses seeking help with installation of new technology in audio and video products like televisions, home theater systems, and the integration of sound and video systems for commercial establishments. We specialize in security and home theater and we seek a long-lasting relationship with our customers.

This Greek Revival row house in Boerum Hill was previously owned by a local architect who renovated it several times, including the addition of a two-story steel and glass extension at the rear. The new owners came to us seeking to restore the house and its original formality, while adapting it to the modern needs of a family of five. The detailing of the 25 x 36 foot structure had been lost and required some sleuthing into the history of Greek Revival style in historic Brooklyn neighborhoods. In addition to completely re-framing the interior, the house also required a new south-facing brick façade due to significant deterioration. The modern extension was replaced with a more traditionally detailed wood and copper- clad bay, still open to natural light and the garden view without sacrificing comfort. The kitchen was relocated from the first floor to the garden level with an adjacent formal dining room. Both rooms were enlarged from their previous iterations to accommodate weekly dinners with extended family. The kitchen includes a home office and breakfast nook that doubles as a homework station. The cellar level was further excavated to accommodate finished storage space and a playroom where activity can be monitored from the kitchen workspaces. The parlor floor is now reserved for entertaining. New pocket doors can be closed to separate the formal front parlor from the more relaxed back portion, where the family plays games or watches TV together. At the end of the hall, a powder room with brass details, and a luxe bar with antique mirrored backsplash and stone tile flooring, leads to the deck and direct garden access. Because of the property width, the house is able to provide ample space for the interior program within a shorter footprint. This allows the garden to remain expansive, with a small lawn for play, an outdoor food preparation area with a cast-in-place concrete bench, and a place for entertaining towards the rear. The newly designed landscaping will continue to develop, further enhancing the yard’s feeling of escape, and filling-in the views from the kitchen and back parlor above. A less visible, but equally as conscious, addition is a rooftop PV solar array that provides nearly 100% of the daily electrical usage, with the exception of the AC system on hot summer days. The well-appointed interiors connect the traditional backdrop of the home to a youthful take on classic design and functionality. The materials are elegant without being precious, accommodating a young, growing family. Unique colors and patterns provide a feeling of luxury while inviting inhabitants and guests to relax and enjoy this classic Brooklyn brownstone. This project won runner-up in the architecture category for the 2017 NYC&G Innovation in Design Awards and was featured in The American House: 100 Contemporary Homes. Photography by Francis Dzikowski / OTTO

Maintaining a pest-free home requires attention throughout the year. Seasonal changes affect pest behavior, and understanding these patterns can save homeowners from costly damage and health hazards. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for spring pest prevention tips, ensuring your property stays protected through every season. From spotting early signs to implementing proactive measures, these steps empower homeowners to take control before infestations occur. Understanding Seasonal Pest Patterns Pests adapt to changing weather, and knowing their patterns helps prevent infestations effectively. Spring: Awakening Pests Spring signals the end of winter dormancy for many pests. Rodents, ants, and termites start seeking food and warmth. Effective spring pest prevention tips include: ● Cleaning gutters and removing debris ● Sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls ● Inspecting wood piles and compost areas ● Monitoring early signs of termite activity Pro Tip: Conduct a termite inspection or a professional evaluation to catch infestations early before they spread. Summer: Peak Pest Season Warm temperatures accelerate pest breeding cycles. For a comprehensive summer pest prevention guide: ● Maintain lawns and trim vegetation away from homes ● Check window and door screens for tears ● Store food in sealed containers ● Inspect water sources that attract mosquitoes Do You Know? Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a teaspoon of water. Eliminating stagnant water is crucial to reducing their population. Fall: Preparing for Winter As temperatures drop, pests search for warm indoor spaces. Key actions include: ● Inspecting for winter rodent entry points ● Sealing attic vents, crawl spaces, and foundation gaps ● Cleaning storage areas to minimize hiding spots ● Checking chimney and fireplace openings Quick Fact: Rodents can enter homes through openings as small as ¼ inch. Seasonal Pest Checklist for Homeowners Creating a structured seasonal pest checklist simplifies preventive measures and ensures nothing is overlooked. Season Key Actions Spring Inspect for termites, seal exterior gaps, clean gutters, and check compost Summer Repair screens, trim vegetation, remove standing water, and secure food Fall Seal entry points, inspect attic/crawlspace, clear debris, and prepare storage Winter Monitor indoor activity, keep firewood away from walls, and maintain traps Inspection & Maintenance Tips ● Schedule annual pest inspections by professional Virginia pest control consultation to detect hidden problems ● Keep a log of pest sightings and treatment dates ● Regularly replace weather stripping and caulk cracks Note: Even small preventive steps, when consistently applied, drastically reduce infestations. Common Pests and Their Seasonal Behaviors Understanding how different pests behave each season helps homeowners take timely action to protect their property. ● Ants and Termites: Ants emerge in spring seeking food, while termites become active and can damage wood unnoticed. Early detection is critical. ● Rodents and Mice: Fall and winter increase rodent intrusions. Block all entry points and keep food sealed. ● Mosquitoes and Flies: Summer creates the ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water and use physical barriers like nets. ● Spiders and Other Insects: Seasonal shifts cause spiders to move indoors. Regular vacuuming and decluttering reduce hiding spots. Eco-Friendly Prevention Methods ● Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth ● Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to reduce pest populations ● Plant pest-deterring plants near home boundaries, like marigolds or lavender Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Adopt an IPM approach by combining physical barriers, monitoring, and environmentally safe treatments. This minimizes chemical use while maintaining a pest-free home. Quote: “Prevention is the most effective form of pest control.” – National Pest Management Association Seasonal Pest Prevention Tools ● Snap traps and humane rodent traps ● Sticky traps for insects ● Outdoor perimeter sprays (eco-friendly) ● Moisture meters to detect early termite or mold problems Pro Tip: Keep tools organized and accessible to act quickly when pest activity is noticed. Planning: Annual Pest Calendar Month Recommended Action March-April Spring pest prevention tips: Inspect, seal, clean gutters June-July Summer pest prevention guide: Screens, standing water, food storage September Seasonal pest checklist: Seal entries, declutter, prep storage November Winter rodent entry points: Monitor indoors, maintain traps Key Takeaways ● Seasonal awareness prevents infestations and property damage ● Consistent inspections and maintenance are essential ● Simple eco-friendly measures can significantly reduce pests ● Use a structured checklist and calendar for effective prevention Conclusion Homeowners who stay proactive and follow spring pest prevention tips, along with year-round monitoring, ensure their properties remain safe and comfortable. Using a summer pest prevention guide, checking winter rodent entry points, and maintaining a seasonal pest checklist ensure your home remains safe and comfortable. Remember to combine inspections, physical barriers, and environmentally friendly methods for the best results. FAQs Q1: How often should I perform a termite inspection? A1: Conduct inspections annually, especially in spring, to detect early signs of termite activity and prevent extensive damage. Q2: Can pests enter my home during winter? A2: Yes, rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter indoors. Sealing entry points and monitoring for activity is crucial. Q3: What is the most effective eco-friendly method for pest prevention? A3: Using natural repellents, encouraging beneficial insects, and eliminating water sources effectively reduces pest populations without chemicals. Ensure your home is ready for every season. Schedule a professional Virginia pest control consultation or a termite inspection in Suffolk, VA, today and stay ahead of potential infestations.

This Greek Revival row house in Boerum Hill was previously owned by a local architect who renovated it several times, including the addition of a two-story steel and glass extension at the rear. The new owners came to us seeking to restore the house and its original formality, while adapting it to the modern needs of a family of five. The detailing of the 25 x 36 foot structure had been lost and required some sleuthing into the history of Greek Revival style in historic Brooklyn neighborhoods. In addition to completely re-framing the interior, the house also required a new south-facing brick façade due to significant deterioration. The modern extension was replaced with a more traditionally detailed wood and copper- clad bay, still open to natural light and the garden view without sacrificing comfort. The kitchen was relocated from the first floor to the garden level with an adjacent formal dining room. Both rooms were enlarged from their previous iterations to accommodate weekly dinners with extended family. The kitchen includes a home office and breakfast nook that doubles as a homework station. The cellar level was further excavated to accommodate finished storage space and a playroom where activity can be monitored from the kitchen workspaces. The parlor floor is now reserved for entertaining. New pocket doors can be closed to separate the formal front parlor from the more relaxed back portion, where the family plays games or watches TV together. At the end of the hall, a powder room with brass details, and a luxe bar with antique mirrored backsplash and stone tile flooring, leads to the deck and direct garden access. Because of the property width, the house is able to provide ample space for the interior program within a shorter footprint. This allows the garden to remain expansive, with a small lawn for play, an outdoor food preparation area with a cast-in-place concrete bench, and a place for entertaining towards the rear. The newly designed landscaping will continue to develop, further enhancing the yard’s feeling of escape, and filling-in the views from the kitchen and back parlor above. A less visible, but equally as conscious, addition is a rooftop PV solar array that provides nearly 100% of the daily electrical usage, with the exception of the AC system on hot summer days. The well-appointed interiors connect the traditional backdrop of the home to a youthful take on classic design and functionality. The materials are elegant without being precious, accommodating a young, growing family. Unique colors and patterns provide a feeling of luxury while inviting inhabitants and guests to relax and enjoy this classic Brooklyn brownstone. This project won runner-up in the architecture category for the 2017 NYC&G Innovation in Design Awards and was featured in The American House: 100 Contemporary Homes. Photography by Francis Dzikowski / OTTO

RadioActive Electronics was created to serve a need to homeowners and businesses seeking help with installation of new technology in audio and video products like televisions, home theater systems, and the integration of sound and video systems for commercial establishments. We specialize in security and home theater and we seek a long-lasting relationship with our customers.

Paul Dyer
This is an example of a transitional front yard concrete paver formal garden.

An American couple with a large extended family were regular visitors to Bermuda and actively seeking a Bermuda home when they found Castle Point. Well known for its prominent Castle Folly overlooking Castle Harbour, the property featured an abandoned main house, a guest cottage, ancillary buildings, and an excavated lot. It had become overgrown and had seen little maintenance since the mid-1980s. Their dream was to work with architects to design a flexible retreat—one that could be intimate when it was just the two of them, but also functional for hosting the entire family and guests. OBMI was challenged to enhance the property and its poetic yet rugged beauty. Only two of the eight acres were available for residential development, requiring careful analysis of our options. We designed a three-bedroom main house, two guest cottages, and a caretaker’s cottage that remained sympathetic to the surrounding landscape and left habitat for native birds and other species. The aesthetic follows classic Bermudian architecture using local materials and maximizing the legendary views.

Rebecca McAlpinAn American couple with a large extended family were regular visitors to Bermuda and actively seeking a Bermuda home when they found Castle Point. Well known for its prominent Castle Folly overlooking Castle Harbour, the property featured an abandoned main house, a guest cottage, ancillary buildings, and an excavated lot. It had become overgrown and had seen little maintenance since the mid-1980s. Their dream was to work with architects to design a flexible retreat—one that could be intimate when it was just the two of them, but also functional for hosting the entire family and guests. OBMI was challenged to enhance the property and its poetic yet rugged beauty. Only two of the eight acres were available for residential development, requiring careful analysis of our options. We designed a three-bedroom main house, two guest cottages, and a caretaker’s cottage that remained sympathetic to the surrounding landscape and left habitat for native birds and other species. The aesthetic follows classic Bermudian architecture using local materials and maximizing the legendary views.

An American couple with a large extended family were regular visitors to Bermuda and actively seeking a Bermuda home when they found Castle Point. Well known for its prominent Castle Folly overlooking Castle Harbour, the property featured an abandoned main house, a guest cottage, ancillary buildings, and an excavated lot. It had become overgrown and had seen little maintenance since the mid-1980s. Their dream was to work with architects to design a flexible retreat—one that could be intimate when it was just the two of them, but also functional for hosting the entire family and guests. OBMI was challenged to enhance the property and its poetic yet rugged beauty. Only two of the eight acres were available for residential development, requiring careful analysis of our options. We designed a three-bedroom main house, two guest cottages, and a caretaker’s cottage that remained sympathetic to the surrounding landscape and left habitat for native birds and other species. The aesthetic follows classic Bermudian architecture using local materials and maximizing the legendary views.