The Kelso's Kids Bedroom is a delightful and inviting space with its carefully curated design elements. The black windows provide a sleek and modern look, while the blue star bedding adds a playful and imaginative touch, perfect for a kids' room. A globe sits atop a surface, encouraging exploration and curiosity. The gray fur rug adds texture and coziness to the room, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The gray wood bunk beds offer a stylish and functional sleeping solution, maximizing the use of space. A light wood desk provides a dedicated area for studying or creative activities. The white baseboard and white walls contribute to a clean and fresh backdrop, allowing the other elements to shine. A white desk chair complements the desk, ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic seating option. Overall, The Kelso's Kids Bedroom strikes a balance between playful and sophisticated, offering a space where children can relax, play, and let their imaginations soar.

In a world where environmental concerns have reached a critical juncture, the need for eco-conscious living has never been more pressing. Ameen Salous, a visionary leader and a prominent advocate for sustainability, stands as a shining example of how individuals can adopt a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle. This article will delve into the eco-conscious lifestyle of Ameen Salous, exploring seven practical tips that can inspire anyone to embark on their journey towards a more sustainable way of living. Introduction: Ameen Salous - A Visionary Champion of Sustainability Ameen Salous is a name synonymous with innovation, but his influence extends far beyond technological advancements. His commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is a core facet of his identity. Ameen's eco-conscious lifestyle serves as a beacon of hope in a world grappling with the consequences of climate change and environmental degradation. As we explore his approach to green living, we can glean valuable insights into how each of us can make a positive impact on the planet. 1. Embrace Renewable Energy Sources One of the cornerstones of Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle is his unwavering support for renewable energy sources. He recognizes the vital role these sources play in reducing our carbon footprint and mitigating climate change. Ameen's advocacy for renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, is not only inspiring but also serves as a practical example for individuals looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. Actionable Tip: Consider installing solar panels on your property, invest in energy-efficient appliances, and explore green energy options provided by your utility company. 2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle The mantra of "reduce, reuse, recycle" has become a fundamental principle of eco-conscious living, and Ameen Salous is a staunch advocate for this approach. He emphasizes the importance of minimizing waste and finding creative ways to repurpose items rather than sending them to landfills. By adopting this mindset, Ameen has significantly reduced his environmental footprint. Actionable Tip: Practice responsible waste management by recycling paper, plastics, and glass. Also, look for ways to upcycle or repurpose items you no longer need. 3. Sustainable Transportation Choices Ameen Salous is a proponent of sustainable transportation methods. He recognizes that the transportation sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. To reduce his impact, he promotes eco-friendly alternatives such as electric vehicles, public transit, and carpooling. Ameen's choice to drive electric vehicles reflects his commitment to reducing air pollution and dependence on fossil fuels. Actionable Tip: Consider switching to an electric or hybrid vehicle, use public transportation when possible, and explore options for carpooling or ridesharing to reduce your carbon footprint. 4. Support Sustainable Agriculture Ameen Salous is acutely aware of the environmental impact of our food choices. He advocates for supporting sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming and locally sourced produce. Ameen's commitment to a plant-based diet further reduces his carbon footprint, as plant-based diets generally have a lower environmental impact compared to diets heavy in animal products. Actionable Tip: Incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, buy locally grown and organic produce when available, and consider starting a small garden to grow your own vegetables and herbs. 5. Conserve Water Water conservation is another key aspect of Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle. He understands the importance of preserving this precious resource in the face of increasing water scarcity worldwide. Ameen's commitment to water conservation includes installing water-saving fixtures, fixing leaks promptly, and minimizing water usage in everyday activities. Actionable Tip: Install low-flow showerheads and faucets, fix any leaks in your plumbing, collect rainwater for outdoor use, and be mindful of water usage when doing everyday tasks like washing dishes or doing laundry. 6. Opt for Sustainable Home Design Ameen Salous's commitment to an eco-conscious lifestyle extends to his home. He believes that sustainable home design can significantly reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Ameen has incorporated features such as energy-efficient insulation, LED lighting, and smart thermostats into his home to increase its energy efficiency. Actionable Tip: Consider making energy-efficient upgrades to your home, such as adding insulation, installing energy-efficient windows, and using programmable thermostats to reduce energy consumption. 7. Environmental Advocacy and Education Perhaps one of the most impactful aspects of Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle is his dedication to environmental advocacy and education. He recognizes that raising awareness and inspiring others to take action are essential steps in addressing environmental challenges. Ameen actively engages with his community and the broader public to promote sustainable living practices and advocate for policies that protect the environment. Actionable Tip: Get involved in environmental advocacy in your community, participate in local clean-up events, and educate yourself and others about the importance of sustainable living. Conclusion: Ameen Salous's Green Living Legacy Ameen Salous's eco-conscious lifestyle serves as a testament to the power of individual actions in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. His commitment to sustainability, renewable energy, and responsible consumption inspires us all to make more environmentally conscious choices in our daily lives. By embracing these seven tips for going green, we can follow in the footsteps of Ameen Salous and contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for our planet.

The original kitchen in this historic River Forest home was a hodgepodge of design elements created by additions to the space over the years. From a functional standpoint, the layout was overly complicated. The kitchen was an L shape with the work triangle in the small leg of the L. It was a fairly large space, but the layout made it feel like a very small kitchen. (See ‘before’ photo below.) The traffic flow from other areas of the home entered at awkward locations, rendering some walls useless for storage or workspace. In addition to solving functionality and flow issues, the homeowner wanted their new kitchen area to have an updated look that still tied into the home’s English Tudor style. THE REMODEL We took everything down to the studs and reestablished design elements like existing beams and a very particular texture on the walls and ceiling. The short leg of the L was closed off and a nice-sized walk-in pantry was put in its place. This functions as the major storage area now – just a few wall cabinets are visible for the everyday dishes. Entries into the space were closed off and relocated to help the overall traffic flow of the home. The windows and exterior doors in the room were removed and relocated. The new ones were finished in a style to match those in some of the existing parts of the home. THE RENEWED SPACE This kitchen now has a nice, spacious feel for this growing family of five. A large arch was built to enclose the range and disguise some architectural details that could not be changed. This was carefully finished in the same textured surface as the original walls. Pantries are now strategically located on both sides of the range area: a pull-out pantry on one side and a shallower pantry on the other side. The large island functions as a spacious work area and a central hub for the busy family’s many daily activities. The transitional design elements and subdued, neutral color palette contribute to what is now a very calming and functional space for the entire family.

Project Overview: The Backyard Renovation 3D Rendering project was developed to visually communicate the design intent and vision for a residential outdoor space. The project aimed to provide clear and engaging representations for both the contractor and the homeowner's association, facilitating a shared understanding of the proposed enhancements. Key Features: 1. New Driveway with Automatic Gates: The design features a contemporary driveway equipped with automated gates, providing convenience and improved security for the property. 2. Exercise Gym with Yoga Area: A dedicated space for fitness activities that includes both a traditional exercise gym and a serene yoga area, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. 3. Coffee Station with Juice Bar: This inviting area is designed for relaxation and socialization, featuring a coffee station complemented by a juice bar to enhance outdoor entertaining. 4. Secluded Meditation Space: A tranquil retreat is included, featuring a soothing wall fountain, cold plunge, and sauna, all surrounded by lush tropical vegetation to create an oasis for relaxation and mindfulness. 5. Lush Tropical Vegetation: The landscaping incorporates a variety of tropical plants that enhance privacy, beautify the space, and contribute to the overall calming atmosphere of the outdoor environment. Project Goals: The main goals of the project were to: • Visualize the backyard renovation to gain approval from the homeowner’s association. • Facilitate collaboration with the contractor by providing detailed renderings. • Create an aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor living space that meets the lifestyle needs of the homeowners. The 3D renderings successfully encapsulated the vision for the backyard renovation, presenting a harmonious blend of design and functionality. The visualizations served as a critical tool in moving forward with the project, ensuring clarity in communication and direction for all stakeholders involved.

The Kensington's backyard is a beautiful outdoor space that combines elegance and functionality. The black window trim adds a touch of sophistication and complements the overall design. The carefully chosen decorative plants add color and vibrancy, creating a refreshing and inviting atmosphere. The fence provides privacy and security while defining the boundaries of the backyard. The GAF Roofing ensures durability and protection from the elements. The lush lawn offers a comfortable area for outdoor activities and relaxation. The metal railing adds a modern and sleek touch to the design while also ensuring safety. The thoughtfully placed outdoor lighting enhances the ambiance of the backyard and allows for enjoyable evenings spent outdoors. The white siding adds a clean and classic look, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of the backyard. Whether hosting gatherings, enjoying family time, or simply appreciating the outdoors, the Kensington's backyard is a haven of tranquility and beauty.

On the other side of the dining room, we installed gunmetal open shelving across nearly the entire wall. It provides a space for displaying personal keepsakes and accessories in a really impactful way. The open shelving truly merges the urban and earthy aesthetics of the home perfectly and activates an otherwise unused area. The clean-lined, metal shelving units contribute to the modern, urban look. While the vintage-look accessories pull in warm tones and earthy textures in a powerful way. We absolutely love the statement it creates in this space.

This is a prime example of premium quality craftsmanship in the landscape design/build business. By redesigning the front entrance to create a porch/landing with an additional parking court, we significantly improved the appearance and value of the property in Rye, New York. The new driveway was constructed of a porous asphalt material which improved the stormwater management adjacent to the wetland. The landscape planting featured a variety of long blooming, native flowering perennials which attract beneficial insect species. This contributes to the successful management of the landscape with sustainable organics. The custom kinetic sculpture adds a nice finishing touch. Instead of a typical evergreen hedge, native clethra was planted on the property border to define the space while contributing fragrance, grace and pollinators to what easily could have been a less active, sterile space. Heavily planted ground cover natives such as ajuga, creeping jenny, Irish moss, sweet woodruff and geraniums made the need for weeding practically obsolete. The use of ground covers as mulch was most effective for resource management.

The objective of this project was to create a self-contained guest house and provide a great room that would serve the main house. Over half the volume of this guest house is occupied by a high-ceilinged living room suitable for multiple concurrent activities. At one side of the large space is a fanciful stair leading up around the chimney to a second floor sleeping loft and bathroom. The chinoiserie railing and the immense cast lion's head mounted on the chimney contribute to a festive air. From the sleeping loft it is possible to climb up into a small cupola built around the chimney top. At the opposite side a stairway provides access to an interior and exterior balcony.

The original kitchen in this historic River Forest home was a hodgepodge of design elements created by additions to the space over the years. From a functional standpoint, the layout was overly complicated. The kitchen was an L shape with the work triangle in the small leg of the L. It was a fairly large space, but the layout made it feel like a very small kitchen. (See ‘before’ photo below.) The traffic flow from other areas of the home entered at awkward locations, rendering some walls useless for storage or workspace. In addition to solving functionality and flow issues, the homeowner wanted their new kitchen area to have an updated look that still tied into the home’s English Tudor style. THE REMODEL We took everything down to the studs and reestablished design elements like existing beams and a very particular texture on the walls and ceiling. The short leg of the L was closed off and a nice-sized walk-in pantry was put in its place. This functions as the major storage area now – just a few wall cabinets are visible for the everyday dishes. Entries into the space were closed off and relocated to help the overall traffic flow of the home. The windows and exterior doors in the room were removed and relocated. The new ones were finished in a style to match those in some of the existing parts of the home. THE RENEWED SPACE This kitchen now has a nice, spacious feel for this growing family of five. A large arch was built to enclose the range and disguise some architectural details that could not be changed. This was carefully finished in the same textured surface as the original walls. Pantries are now strategically located on both sides of the range area: a pull-out pantry on one side and a shallower pantry on the other side. The large island functions as a spacious work area and a central hub for the busy family’s many daily activities. The transitional design elements and subdued, neutral color palette contribute to what is now a very calming and functional space for the entire family.

An authentic and active cast iron stove adds a bit of whimsy to the space. It plays a starring role in the rustic ambiance and also heats the suite beautifully. This architectural element is another artistic contribution to the room with it’s cast iron detail and modern rectangular slate tile surround. The stove is stoked with tradition and brings the repurposed barn back to it’s original glory.

The TWINS sofa-bed is essentially a sofa with a refined appearance, ready to make a valid decor contribution to any space. It has a slim upholstered back enhanced by soft cushions, and offers the possibility of two independent twin beds that can also be combined to form a double bed. A patented mechanism permits easy extraction of the second bed from below, which is brought to the same level as the other thanks to a pump system activated with a simple touch of the foot. The four back cushions, when the sofa is closed, contain two duvets and two pillows.

Project Overview: The Backyard Renovation 3D Rendering project was developed to visually communicate the design intent and vision for a residential outdoor space. The project aimed to provide clear and engaging representations for both the contractor and the homeowner's association, facilitating a shared understanding of the proposed enhancements. Key Features: 1. New Driveway with Automatic Gates: The design features a contemporary driveway equipped with automated gates, providing convenience and improved security for the property. 2. Exercise Gym with Yoga Area: A dedicated space for fitness activities that includes both a traditional exercise gym and a serene yoga area, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. 3. Coffee Station with Juice Bar: This inviting area is designed for relaxation and socialization, featuring a coffee station complemented by a juice bar to enhance outdoor entertaining. 4. Secluded Meditation Space: A tranquil retreat is included, featuring a soothing wall fountain, cold plunge, and sauna, all surrounded by lush tropical vegetation to create an oasis for relaxation and mindfulness. 5. Lush Tropical Vegetation: The landscaping incorporates a variety of tropical plants that enhance privacy, beautify the space, and contribute to the overall calming atmosphere of the outdoor environment. Project Goals: The main goals of the project were to: • Visualize the backyard renovation to gain approval from the homeowner’s association. • Facilitate collaboration with the contractor by providing detailed renderings. • Create an aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor living space that meets the lifestyle needs of the homeowners. The 3D renderings successfully encapsulated the vision for the backyard renovation, presenting a harmonious blend of design and functionality. The visualizations served as a critical tool in moving forward with the project, ensuring clarity in communication and direction for all stakeholders involved.

This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River. The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes. The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes. The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front. The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural. Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders Anice Hoachlander Photography

Project Overview: The Backyard Renovation 3D Rendering project was developed to visually communicate the design intent and vision for a residential outdoor space. The project aimed to provide clear and engaging representations for both the contractor and the homeowner's association, facilitating a shared understanding of the proposed enhancements. Key Features: 1. New Driveway with Automatic Gates: The design features a contemporary driveway equipped with automated gates, providing convenience and improved security for the property. 2. Exercise Gym with Yoga Area: A dedicated space for fitness activities that includes both a traditional exercise gym and a serene yoga area, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. 3. Coffee Station with Juice Bar: This inviting area is designed for relaxation and socialization, featuring a coffee station complemented by a juice bar to enhance outdoor entertaining. 4. Secluded Meditation Space: A tranquil retreat is included, featuring a soothing wall fountain, cold plunge, and sauna, all surrounded by lush tropical vegetation to create an oasis for relaxation and mindfulness. 5. Lush Tropical Vegetation: The landscaping incorporates a variety of tropical plants that enhance privacy, beautify the space, and contribute to the overall calming atmosphere of the outdoor environment. Project Goals: The main goals of the project were to: • Visualize the backyard renovation to gain approval from the homeowner’s association. • Facilitate collaboration with the contractor by providing detailed renderings. • Create an aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor living space that meets the lifestyle needs of the homeowners. The 3D renderings successfully encapsulated the vision for the backyard renovation, presenting a harmonious blend of design and functionality. The visualizations served as a critical tool in moving forward with the project, ensuring clarity in communication and direction for all stakeholders involved.

The design of the homes reflects a desire to create a geometry that informs the viewer of activities inside while contributing to the architectural diversity throughout this community.

Project Overview: The Backyard Renovation 3D Rendering project was developed to visually communicate the design intent and vision for a residential outdoor space. The project aimed to provide clear and engaging representations for both the contractor and the homeowner's association, facilitating a shared understanding of the proposed enhancements. Key Features: 1. New Driveway with Automatic Gates: The design features a contemporary driveway equipped with automated gates, providing convenience and improved security for the property. 2. Exercise Gym with Yoga Area: A dedicated space for fitness activities that includes both a traditional exercise gym and a serene yoga area, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. 3. Coffee Station with Juice Bar: This inviting area is designed for relaxation and socialization, featuring a coffee station complemented by a juice bar to enhance outdoor entertaining. 4. Secluded Meditation Space: A tranquil retreat is included, featuring a soothing wall fountain, cold plunge, and sauna, all surrounded by lush tropical vegetation to create an oasis for relaxation and mindfulness. 5. Lush Tropical Vegetation: The landscaping incorporates a variety of tropical plants that enhance privacy, beautify the space, and contribute to the overall calming atmosphere of the outdoor environment. Project Goals: The main goals of the project were to: • Visualize the backyard renovation to gain approval from the homeowner’s association. • Facilitate collaboration with the contractor by providing detailed renderings. • Create an aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor living space that meets the lifestyle needs of the homeowners. The 3D renderings successfully encapsulated the vision for the backyard renovation, presenting a harmonious blend of design and functionality. The visualizations served as a critical tool in moving forward with the project, ensuring clarity in communication and direction for all stakeholders involved.

2011 CAPITAL COTY AWARD HONORABLE MENTION AWARD WINNER Built circa 1980, a young couple with three children originally purchased this home for their growing family. After four years of karate, soccer, piano and other activities, however, the home was becoming too small to meet their needs. Problems started upon entering the front foyer. A 25-foot long dark hallway separated the family room and the kitchen, ending in a tiny powder room stuck in the middle of the layout. The kitchen was especially isolated, a cramped L-shaped design with a box bay breakfast bump out that was literally falling apart. The new design started with the core of the problem—the maze and separation created by the long hallways. First, the 25’ load bearing wall separating the foyer from family room was totally taken out and replaced with a long supporting beam. A French door replaced a small door and window leading to a screen porch . This action allowed lots of light to get into family and foyer. Then, the powder room was removed and the partition wall between the kitchen and family room was taken down. This created a large open concept design and greatly increased the size of the kitchen. The box bay was demolished and replaced with new walls and a large window. The plumbing for main sink and dishwasher got relocated into this box bay allowing a total transformation of the space. Now there are cabinets and counters on all sides. The doorway to the dining room was reconfigured to allow a butler area on its left. While the right side was occupied with new 36” gas range top with a decorative wood hood above it. The refrigerator, microwave/oven and pantries—the space’s tall elements—occupy one wall.. A large Island with a prep sink and beverage center for the kids occupies the center of the layout. Capable of seating up to four, family and friends can now keep the cook company. A large built-in desk area lets the kids do their homework so the parents can supervise while they prepare meals. Light cabinetry with a touch of caramel glazing and exotic granite countertops by our designers contributed to this kitchen’s elegant design. The contrasting distressed island’s darker finish matches the dinette set and other furnishings. New hardwood floors were installed throughout the first floor for a seamless look, while recess, pendant and task lighting make the space even brighter. Importantly, there’s plenty of space for parents and kids to hang out together. The kitchen is truly the heart of their home.

This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River. The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes. The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes. The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front. The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural. Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders Anice Hoachlander Photography

design christina loucks photo heidi geldhauser
Living room - mid-century modern living room idea in New York