The owners of this kitchen had spent the money to upgrade the finishes in their kitchen upon building the home 12 years ago, but after living in the space for several years they realized how nonfunctional the layout really was. The (then) two preschool aged children had grown into busy, hungry teenagers with many friends who also liked to hang out at the house. So the family needed a more functional kitchen with better traffic flow, space for daily activities revolving around the kitchen at different times of day, and a kitchen that could accommodate cooking for and serving large groups. Furthermore, the dark, traditional finishes no longer reflected the homeowners’ style. They requested a brighter, more relaxed, coastal style that reflected their love of the seaside cities they like to visit. Originally, the kitchen was U-shaped with a narrow island in the middle. The island created narrow aisles that bottle-necked at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and cooktop areas. There was a pass-through from the foyer into the kitchen, but the owners never liked that the pass-through was also located so close to the powder room. The awkward proximity was unappealing and made guests feel uncomfortable. The kitchen’s storage was made up of lots of narrow cabinets, apothecary drawers, clipped corner units, and very few drawers. It lacked useful storage for the larger items the family used on a daily basis. And the kitchen’s only pantry was small closet that had only builder-grade, narrow shelving with no illumination to be able to see the contents inside. Overall, the kitchen’s lighting plan was poorly executed. Only six recessed cans illuminated the entire kitchen and nook areas. The under cabinet lighting was not evenly distributed either. In fact, the builder had mis-placed the under cabinet lighting around the decorative pilasters which made for choppy, dark cubbies. Further, the builder didn’t include any lighting over the sink or the bar area, which meant whoever was doing the dishes was always in their own shadow. That, coupled with the steep overhang of the game room above made the bar area feel like a dim, cavernous space that wasn’t inviting or task oriented. The kitchen looked out into the main living space, but the raised bar and a narrow wall (which held the only large cabinet in the kitchen) created more of a barrier than a relationship to the living room or breakfast nook. In fact, one couldn’t even see the breakfast nook from the cooktop or sink areas due to its orientation. The raised bar top was too narrow to comfortably sit to either dine at or chat from due to the lack of knee space. The the homeowners confided that the kitchen felt more like a dark, dirty prison than place where the family, or their guests, wanted to gather and commune. The clients' needs and desires were: ➢ to create a kitchen that would be a space the family loved to be in; to relate to the adjacent spaces all around, and to have better flow for entertaining large groups ➢ to remove the walls between the breakfast nook and living area and to be able to utilize the natural light from the windows in both those areas ➢ to incorporate a functional chopping block for prepping fresh food for home cooked meals, an island with a large sink and drain board, 2 pull out trash cans, and seating for at least the 2 teens to eat or do homework ➢ to design a kitchen and breakfast nook with an airy, coastal, relaxed vibe that blended with the rest of the house's coastal theme ➢ to integrate a layered lighting plan which would include ample general illumination, specific task lighting, decorative lighting, and lots of illuminated storage ➢ to design a kitchen with not only more storage for all the husband’s kitchen gadgets and collection of oils and spices, but smart storage, including a coffee/breakfast bar and a place to store and conceal the toaster oven and microwave ➢ to find a way to utilize the large open space between the kitchen, pantry area, and breakfast nook Twelve Stones Designs achieved the owner's goals by: ➢ removing the walls between the kitchen and living room to allow the natural light to filter in from the adjacent rooms and to create a connection between the kitchen, nook, and living spaces for a sense of unity and communion ➢ removing the existing pantry and designing 3 large pantry style cabinets with LED tape lights and rollout drawers to house lots of kitchen appliances, gadgets, and tons of groceries. We also took the cabinets all the way up to the 9’ ceiling for additional storage for seasonal items and bulk storage. ➢ designing 2 islands - 1 with a gorgeous black walnut chopping block that houses a drawer for chopping and carving knives and a custom double pull out trash unit for point of use utilization - and 1 that houses the dishwasher, a large Blanco Gourmet sink with integrated drain board, woven baskets for fresh root vegetables and kitchen towels, plenty of drawer storage for kitchen items, and bar seating for up to 4 diners. ➢ closing off the space between the kitchen and the powder room to create a beautiful new private alcove for the powder room as well as adding some decorative storage. This also gave us space to include more tall storage near the new range for precision placement of the husband’s extensive oil and spice collection as well as a location for a combo-steam oven the wife wanted for baking and cooking healthy meals. The project is enhanced functionally by: ➢ incorporated USB and standard receptacles for the kids’ laptops and phone charging in the large island ➢ designing the small island to include additional open shelving for items used on a daily basis such as a variety of bowls, plates, and colanders. This set up also works well for the husband who prefers to “plate” his dinners in restaurant-style fashion before presenting them to the table. ➢ the integration of specific storage units, such as double stacked cutlery drawers, a custom spice pull-out, a Kuerig coffee and tea pod drawer, and custom double stacked utensil drawers ➢ moving the refrigerator to the old oven location - this eliminated the bottle neck as well as created a better relationship to the eating table. It also utilizes the floor space between the pantry, nook, and kitchen ➢ creating a banquet style breakfast nook - this banquette seating not only doubles the amount of seating for large gatherings but it better utilizes the odd space between the kitchen and the previous nook area. It also helps to create a distinct pathway from the mudroom room through the pantry area, kitchen, nook, and living room. ➢ the coffee/breakfast bar area which includes the perfect location for the concealed microwave and toaster oven, convenient storage for the coffee pods and tea accoutrements. Roll-out drawers below also house the smoothie maker, hot water kettle, and a plethora of smoothie-making ingredients such as protein powders, smoothie additives, etc. Furthermore, the drawers below the Keurig house measuring utensil, cutlery, baking supplies and tupperware storage. ➢ incorporating lots of wide drawers and pullouts to accommodate large cookware. ➢ utilizing as much vertical space as possible by building storage to the ceiling which accommodates the family’s abundant amount of serving platters, baking sheets, bakeware, casserole dishes, and additional cutting boards. The project is enhanced aesthetically by: ➢ new 5-piece Versailles pattern porcelain tile that now seamlessly joins the entire down stairs area together creating a bright, cohesiveness feeling instead of choppy separated spaces - it also adds a coastal feeling ➢ designing a cabinet to conceal the microwave and toaster oven ➢ the coastal influenced light fixtures over the nook table and island ➢ the sandy colors of the Langdon Cambria countertops. The swirling pattern and sparkling quartz pieces remind the homeowner of black-and-tan sandy beaches ➢ the striped banquet seating whose creamy white background and blue-green stripes were the inspiration for the cabinet and wall colors. ➢ All the interior doors were painted black to coordinate with the blacks and grays in the backsplash tile and countertop. This also adds a hint of tailored formality to an otherwise casual space. ➢ the use of WAC's Oculux small aperture LED units for the overhead lighting complimented with Diode LED strips for task lighting under the cabinets and inside the pantry and glass wall cabinets. All of the lighting applications are on separate dimmer switches. Innovative uses of materials or construction methods by Realty Restoration LLC: ➢ Each 1-1/2” x 3” block of reclaimed end-grain black walnut that makes up the center island chopping block was hand milled and built in the shop. It was designed to look substantial and proportional to the surrounding elements, executed by creating the 4 inch tall top with a solid wood chamfered edge band. ➢ The metal doors on either side of the vent hood were also custom designed for this project and built in the Realty Restoration LLC shop. They are made 1x2, 11-gauge mild steel with ribbed glass. Weighing 60 lbs a piece, heavy duty cabinet hinges were added to support the weight of the door and keep them from sagging. ➢ Under-cabinet receptacles were added along the range wall in order to have a clean, uninterrupted backsplash. Design obstacles to overcome: ➢ Because we were removing the demising walls between the kitchen and living room, we had to find a way to plumb and vent the new island. We did this by tunneling through the slab (the slab had post tension cables which prevented us from just trenching) to run a new wet vent through a nearby structural wall. We pulled the existing hot and cold lines between upper floor joists and ran them down the structural wall as well and up through a conduit in the tunnel. ➢ Since we were converting from wall overs to a gas range it allowed us to utilize the 220 feed for the wall ovens to provide a new sub panel for all the new kitchen circuits ➢ Due to framing deficiencies inherited from the original build there was a 1-1/2” differential in the floor-to-ceiling height over a 20 foot span; by utilizing the process of cutting and furring coupled with the crown moulding details on the cabinet elevations we were able to mask the problem and provide seamless transitions between the cabinet components. Evidence of superior craftsmanship: ➢ uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind metal “X” end panels on the large island. The end panels were custom made in the Realty Restoration LLC shop and fitted to the exact dimensions of the island. The welding seams are completely indistinguishable - the posts look like they are cut from a single sheet of metal ➢ square metal posts on the small island were also custom made and designed to compliment and carry through the metal element s throughout the kitchen ➢ the beautiful, oversized end panels on the pantry cabinets which give the breakfast nook a tailored look ➢ integrating a large format 5 piece Versailles tile pattern to seamlessly flow from the existing spaces into the new kitchen space ➢ By constructing a custom cabinet that jogged around a corner we could not remodel (housing the entry way coat closet) we were able to camouflage the adjacent wall offset within the upper and lower cabinets. By designing around the existing jog in the structural walls we accomplished a few things: we were able to find the space to house, and hide, the microwave and toaster oven yet still have a clean cohesive appearance from the kitchen side. Additionally, the owners were able to keep their much needed coat closet and we didn’t have to increase the budget with unnecessary structural work.

Photo: Nanette Wong © 2014 Houzz
Design ideas for a transitional landscaping in San Francisco.

Welcome to this exquisite historical Montrose designed home, approved by the historical committee to speak to its timeless charm and elegance. This remarkable residence was meticulously crafted to fulfill the dreams of a loving family raising three active boys. Throughout the home, the client's vision of a nurturing and entertaining environment is brought to life with carefully selected vendors. The collaborative efforts of Fairhope Building Company, Ford Lumber, Baldwin County Roofing, South Coast Trim, Blue Water Lumber, Mobile Appliance, WinnSupply, Mathes Electric, ProSource, Coastal Stone, Crawfords Customs, and ACME Brick have resulted in a blend of quality craftsmanship and stunning aesthetics. Stepping inside, the unique features of this home are sure to captivate your senses. The kids' bathroom boasts a charming trough sink, adding a playful touch to their daily routines. A Venetian hood graces the kitchen, while rustic beams adorn the ceilings, creating a rustic elegance in the home. Wrought iron handrails provide both safety and an exquisite design element, creating a striking visual impact. V-Groove walls add character and depth to the living spaces, evoking a sense of warmth and comfort. The hybrid laundry room and workspace offer practicality and convenience, allowing the client to effortlessly manage household tasks while keeping an eye on her little ones. Among the standout elements of this home, several featured products deserve special mention. Coppersmith lanterns grace the entrance, casting a warm and inviting glow. Emtek hardware adds a touch of sophistication to the doors, while Koetter Millworks craftsmanship is featured throughout the residence. Authentic reclaimed lumber from Evolutia in Birmingham, AL, brings a sense of history and sustainability, adding a unique charm to the interior spaces. In summary, this historical Montrose design home is a testament to the client's vision and the collaborative efforts of skilled vendors. Its exceptional features, including the trough sink, Venetian hood, rustic beams, wrought iron handrails, V-Groove walls, and hybrid laundry room/work space, set it apart as an ideal haven for a mother raising three boys. With its carefully curated products and timeless appeal, this home is truly a dream come true.

s your ornamental iron fence flaking rust onto the sidewalk every time Chicago wind kicks up? That is not a cosmetic problem - it is a sign that bare metal is exposed to moisture and the corrosion cycle is accelerating. Windy City Painters restores iron fencing on Chicago greystones, two-flats, Victorian brownstones, and courtyard buildings using professional-grade rust conversion and rust-inhibitive systems designed for the Midwest climate. PROJECT OVERVIEW Ornamental iron fence painting in Chicago is a multi-stage restoration process, not a simple brush-and-go job. Chicago properties - particularly the dense residential streetscapes of the North Side and Near West Side - feature decorative iron fencing that ranges from simple tubular picket to elaborate spear-top and scroll designs. When paint fails on iron, rust accelerates quickly. Windy City Painters evaluates each fence for structural rust-through, surface rust, and paint adhesion before recommending a scope of work. MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS Rust conversion: Ospho (phosphoric acid-based) or Corroseal (latex rust converter) depending on rust severity and surface porosity. Both chemically convert iron oxide into a stable compound that primer bonds to permanently rather than simply coating over active rust. Primer: Rust-Oleum DTM (Direct to Metal) rust-inhibitive primer or Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic Coating primer, both formulated to penetrate weld seams, crevices, and pitted metal surfaces where brush application is essential. Finish coat: Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic in satin or semi-gloss for UV resistance, color retention, and flexibility through freeze-thaw cycles. Two finish coats applied by brush for full coverage on ornamental profiles. THE PROCESS Step 1 - Mechanical Preparation: Wire wheel grinding with angle grinders removes loose rust and failing paint across flat rail surfaces. Needle gun descaling reaches weld joints, picket bases, and decorative scroll details where wire wheels cannot access. Windy City Painters inspects for rust-through after mechanical prep and flags any sections needing welding before painting proceeds. Step 2 - Rust Conversion: Ospho or Corroseal is applied by brush to all remaining rust-affected surfaces. Ospho reacts with iron oxide over 24 hours, converting it to iron phosphate. Corroseal encapsulates and converts simultaneously. Both products create a chemically stable surface that dramatically improves primer adhesion on previously rusted iron fence sections. Step 3 - Primer Application: Rust-Oleum DTM or Sherwin-Williams DTM rust-inhibitive primer is worked into every joint, crevice, and ornamental detail by brush - never sprayed alone on open ironwork where overspray and thin coverage risk undercutting. Full wet film thickness is verified before drying. Windy City Painters does not rush cure times between coats. Step 4 - Finish Coats: Two coats of Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic topcoat are applied by brush for maximum film build on vertical pickets and horizontal rails. Color is matched to original or updated per homeowner preference. Semi-gloss finish resists dirt accumulation and makes future cleaning easier between repainting cycles. CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES Chicago presents iron fence painting conditions that milder climates do not. Road salt spray from city streets migrates onto fence bases through snowplow activity and foot traffic. Freeze-thaw cycling - sometimes occurring 30 or more times per winter - expands and contracts metal faster than paint can flex if film build is inadequate. High summer humidity slows cure times and risks blushing in topcoats applied too early in the morning. Windy City Painters schedules iron fence work during appropriate temperature and humidity windows and never applies coatings when rain is forecast within 24 hours. WHAT TO EXPECT LONG-TERM A properly prepped and primed iron fence in Chicago should hold a quality DTM finish for 5-8 years before needing significant maintenance. Annual inspection of base welds and picket bottoms - areas where water pools - catches early rust before it requires full mechanical prep again. Touch-up painting of isolated spots extends coating life significantly. PRO TIPS Tip 1: Never let a painter skip straight to topcoat on a rusty fence. Active rust under paint fails within one or two seasons. Ospho or Corroseal conversion is non-negotiable on Chicago iron. Tip 2: Inspect fence picket bases at ground level every fall. That is where water collects, salt concentrates, and rust begins its worst work. Early touch-up costs far less than full restoration. Tip 3: Request brush application on ornamental ironwork rather than spray-only. Brush work ensures wet paint is physically worked into every joint and crevice where rust originates. Ready to restore your iron fence? Visit windypainters.com to schedule a free estimate with Windy City Painters. Q: What does iron fence painting cost in Chicago? A: Iron fence painting in Chicago typically runs $8-$18 per linear foot. Rust severity, fence height, ornamental detail complexity, and whether welding repairs are needed all affect the final cost for professional iron fence restoration. Q: How do you treat rust before painting an iron fence? A: Windy City Painters uses Ospho or Corroseal rust converters after mechanical prep. These products chemically neutralize iron oxide, creating a stable surface that rust-inhibitive primer bonds to permanently rather than painting over active corrosion. Q: What primer is best for painting a rusty iron fence in Chicago? A: Rust-Oleum DTM and Sherwin-Williams DTM rust-inhibitive primers are our go-to products for iron fence painting in Chicago. Both are formulated for direct metal application and resist the moisture and freeze-thaw stress Chicago winters produce. Q: How long does painted iron fencing last in Chicago? A: A professionally prepped and primed iron fence in Chicago holds a quality DTM finish for 5-8 years. Annual inspection of base welds and low points, with spot touch-up as needed, extends that service life considerably. Q: Do I need a welder before painting my iron fence? A: If rust has eaten through fence rails or pickets structurally, Windy City Painters will identify those sections during prep and recommend welding before any primer or paint is applied. Painting over structurally failed metal is a waste of money. Q: Can I paint an iron fence myself? A: DIY iron fence painting without proper rust conversion and DTM primer systems almost always fails within two seasons in Chicago. Professional prep, product selection, and application technique are why Windy City Painters results last 5-8 years. Q: What neighborhoods does Windy City Painters serve for iron fence work? A: Windy City Painters serves Chicago North Side and Near West Side neighborhoods, working on greystones, two-flats, Victorian brownstones, courtyard buildings, and coach houses throughout the city.

This lakefront property set in a nice quiet cove on Lake Sam Rayburn. The entire project was planned and built by carter & company for large family events. The 3 1/2 level structure is designed with craftsman influences and functions well as a large fishing lodge designed for year-round entertaining. Ground level includes outdoor kitchen/dining area,separate outdoor living/gaming area with custom cypress beamed furniture built by carter & company. A 1700 Sq deck overlooks beautiful Sam Rayburn and garage doors open across front and rear elevations to create open breeze ways throughout all downstairs areas. Second floor includes living dining and master suite .an enclosed screen porch extends all the way across the lake side with an old wooden cistern structure which houses an outdoor hot tub. The screen porch has it own 5 ton central unit which is only shared with the downstairs shop area.it also has a 50,000 but ventless fireplace on one end which creates a ( winter area ) on the screen porch. The open spaces of living/dining also share aux heating via early 1900's Wood stove (pot belly) which was refurbished and was originally used in a girls dormitory somewhere in Colorado. Kitchen amenities include professional series equipment, a baking center, dumb waiter to downstairs kitchen, pressed tin ceilings. The entire structure touts custom made knotty alder moldings cabinets and doors. The interior walls are also slatted knotty alder with paint stained finishes. The third floor houses 3 guest bedrooms 1 full bath 1 jack and Jill bath, a 10 x 10 sleeping tent with chandelier, queen mattress, and lake view window. Attic does not exist, instead we incorporated open air vaulted ceilings with turnbuckle collar ties and an upper sleeping loft for kids accessed by custom ships ladder. Other areas of interest include front open air materials lift, 100 ft redneck water slide assembled during summertime and rolling boat dock for lake activities.

This lakefront property set in a nice quiet cove on Lake Sam Rayburn. The entire project was planned and built by carter & company for large family events. The 3 1/2 level structure is designed with craftsman influences and functions well as a large fishing lodge designed for year-round entertaining. Ground level includes outdoor kitchen/dining area,separate outdoor living/gaming area with custom cypress beamed furniture built by carter & company. A 1700 Sq deck overlooks beautiful Sam Rayburn and garage doors open across front and rear elevations to create open breeze ways throughout all downstairs areas. Second floor includes living dining and master suite .an enclosed screen porch extends all the way across the lake side with an old wooden cistern structure which houses an outdoor hot tub. The screen porch has it own 5 ton central unit which is only shared with the downstairs shop area.it also has a 50,000 but ventless fireplace on one end which creates a ( winter area ) on the screen porch. The open spaces of living/dining also share aux heating via early 1900's Wood stove (pot belly) which was refurbished and was originally used in a girls dormitory somewhere in Colorado. Kitchen amenities include professional series equipment, a baking center, dumb waiter to downstairs kitchen, pressed tin ceilings. The entire structure touts custom made knotty alder moldings cabinets and doors. The interior walls are also slatted knotty alder with paint stained finishes. The third floor houses 3 guest bedrooms 1 full bath 1 jack and Jill bath, a 10 x 10 sleeping tent with chandelier, queen mattress, and lake view window. Attic does not exist, instead we incorporated open air vaulted ceilings with turnbuckle collar ties and an upper sleeping loft for kids accessed by custom ships ladder. Other areas of interest include front open air materials lift, 100 ft redneck water slide assembled during summertime and rolling boat dock for lake activities.

The exercise room features cork flooring.
Inspiration for a timeless home gym remodel in Austin

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours The second-largest and most developed of Georgia's barrier islands, St. Simons is approximately twelve miles long and nearly three miles wide at its widest stretch (roughly the size of Manhattan Island in New York). The island is located in Glynn County on Georgia's coast and lies east of Brunswick (the seat of Glynn County), south of Little St. Simons Island and the Hampton River, and north of Jekyll Island. The resort community of Sea Island is separated from St. Simons on the east by the Black Banks River. Known for its oak tree canopies and historic landmarks, St. Simons is both a tourist destination and, according to the 2010 U.S. census, home to 12,743 residents. Early History The earliest St. Simons Island Village record of human habitation on the island dates to the Late Archaic Period, about 5,000 to 3,000 years ago. Remnants of shell rings left behind by Native Americans from this era survive on many of the barrier islands, including St. Simons. Centuries later, during the period known by historians as the chiefdom era, the Guale Indians established a chiefdom centered on St. Catherines Island and used St. Simons as their hunting and fishing grounds. By 1500 the Guale had established a permanent village of about 200 people on St. Simons, which they called Guadalquini. Beginning in 1568, the Spanish attempted to create missions along the Georgia coast. Catholic missions were the primary means by which Georgia's indigenous Native American chiefdoms were assimilated into the Spanish colonial system along the northern frontier of greater Spanish Florida. In the 1600s St. Simons became home to two Spanish missions: San Buenaventura de Guadalquini, on the southern tip of the island, and Santo Domingo de Asao (or Asajo), on the northern tip. Located on the inland side of the island were the pagan refugee villages of San Simón, the island's namesake, and Ocotonico. In 1684 pirate raids left the missions and villages largely abandoned. Colonial History As Fort Frederica early as 1670, with Great Britain's establishment of the colony of Carolina and its expansion into Georgia territory, Spanish rule was threatened by the English. The Georgia coast was considered "debatable land" by England and Spain, even though Spain had fully retreated from St. Simons by 1702. Thirty-one years later General James Edward Oglethorpe founded the English settlement of Savannah. In 1736 he established Fort Frederica, named after the heir to the British throne, Frederick Louis, prince of Wales, on the west side of St. Simons Island to protect Savannah and the Carolinas from the Spanish threat. Between 1736 and 1749 Fort Frederica was the hub of British military operations along the Georgia frontier. A town of the same name grew up around the fort and was of great importance to the new colony. By 1740 Frederica's population was 1,000. In 1736 the congregation of what would become Christ Church was organized within Fort Frederica as a mission of the Church of England. Charles Wesley led the first services. In 1742 Britain's decisive victory over Spain in the Battle of Bloody Marsh, during the War of Jenkins' Ear, ended the Spanish threat to the Georgia coast. When the British regimen disbanded in 1749, most of the townspeople relocated to the mainland. Fort Frederica went into decline and, except for a short time of prosperity during the 1760s and 1770s under the leadership of merchant James Spalding, never fully recovered. Today the historic citadel's tabby ruins are maintained by the National Park Service. Plantation Era By the start of the American Revolution (1775-83), Fort Frederica was obsolete, and St. Simons was left largely uninhabited as most of its residents joined the patriot army. Besides hosting a small Georgia naval victory on the Fort Frederica River, providing guns from its famous fort for use at Fort Morris in Sunbury, and serving as an arena for pillaging by privateers and British soldiers, the island played almost no role in the war. Following the war, many of the townspeople, their businesses destroyed, turned to agriculture. The island was transformed into fourteen cotton plantations after acres of live oak trees were cleared for farm land and used for building American warships, including the famous USS Constitution, or "Old Ironsides." Although rice was the predominant crop along the neighboring Altamaha River, St. Simons was known for its production of long-staple cotton, which soon came to be known as Sea Island cotton. Between Ebos Landing the 1780s and the outbreak of the Civil War (1861-65), St. Simons's plantation culture flourished. The saline atmosphere and the availability of cheap slave labor proved an ideal combination for the cultivation of Sea Island cotton. In 1803 a group of Ebo slaves who survived the Middle Passage and arrived on the west side of St. Simons staged a rebellion and drowned themselves. The sacred site is known today as Ebos Landing. One of the largest owners of land and slaves on St. Simons was Pierce Butler, master of Hampton Point Plantation, located on the northern end of the island. By 1793 Butler owned more than 500 slaves, who cultivated 800 acres of cotton on St. Simons and 300 acres of rice on Butler's Island in the Altamaha River delta. Butler's grandson, Pierce Mease Butler, who at the age of sixteen inherited a share of his grandfather's estate in 1826, was responsible for the largest sale of human beings in the history of the United States: in 1859, to restore his squandered fortune, he sold 429 slaves in Savannah for more than $300,000. The British actress and writer Fanny Kemble, whose tumultuous marriage to Pierce ended in divorce in 1849, published an eyewitness account of the evils of slavery on St. Simons in her book Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838-1839 (1863). Another Retreat Plantation large owner of land and slaves on St. Simons was Major William Page, a friend and employee of Pierce Butler Sr. Before purchasing Retreat Plantation on the southwestern tip of the island in 1804, Page managed the Hampton plantation and Butler's Island. Upon Page's death in 1827, Thomas Butler King inherited the land together with his wife, Page's daughter, Anna Matilda Page King. King expanded his father-in-law's planting empire on St. Simons as well as on the mainland, and by 1835 Retreat Plantation alone was home to as many as 355 slaves. The center of life during the island's plantation era was Christ Church, Frederica. Organized in 1807 by a group of island planters, the Episcopal church is the second oldest in the Diocese of Georgia. Embargoes imposed by the War of 1812 (1812-15) prevented the parishioners from building a church structure, so they worshiped in the home of John Beck, which stood on the site of Oglethorpe's only St. Simons residence, Orange Hall. The first Christ Church building, finished on the present site in 1820, was ruined by occupying Union troops during the Civil War. In 1884 the Reverend Anson Dodge Jr. rebuilt the church as a memorial to his first wife, Ellen. The cruciform building with a trussed gothic roof and stained-glass windows remains active today as Christ Church. Civil War and Beyond The St. Simons Island Lighthouse outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 put a sudden end to St. Simons's lucrative plantation era. In January of that year, Confederate troops were stationed at the south end of the island to guard the entrance to Brunswick Harbor. Slaves from Retreat Plantation, owned by Thomas Butler King, built earthworks and batteries. Plantation residents were scattered—the men joined the Confederate army and their families moved to the mainland. Cannon fire was heard on the island in December 1861, and Confederate troops retreated in February 1862, after dynamiting the lighthouse to keep its beacon from aiding Union troops. Soon thereafter, Union troops occupied the island, which was used as a camp for freed slaves. By August 1862 more than 500 former slaves lived on St. Simons, including Susie King Taylor, who organized a school for freed slave children. But in November the ex-slaves were taken to Hilton Head, South Carolina, and Fernandina, Florida, leaving the island abandoned. After the Civil War the island never returned to its status as an agricultural community. The plantations lay dormant because there were no slaves to work the fields. After Union general William T. Sherman's January 1865 Special Field Order No. 15 —a demand that former plantations be divided and distributed to former slaves—was overturned by U.S. president Andrew Johnson less than a year later, freedmen and women were forced to work as sharecroppers on the small farms that dotted the land previously occupied by the sprawling plantations. By St. Simons Lumber Mills 1870 real economic recovery began with the reestablishment of the timber industry. Norman Dodge and Titus G. Meigs of New York set up lumber mill operations at Gascoigne Bluff, formerly Hamilton Plantation. The lumber mills provided welcome employment for both blacks and whites and also provided mail and passenger boats to the mainland. Such water traffic, together with the construction of a new lighthouse in 1872, designed by architect Charles B. Cluskey, marked the beginning of St. Simons's tourism industry. The keeper of the lighthouse created a small amusement park, which drew many visitors, as did the seemingly miraculous light that traveled from the top of the lighthouse tower to the bottom. The island became a summer retreat for families from the mainland, particularly from Baxley, Brunswick, and Waycross. The island's resort industry was thriving by the 1880s. Beachfront structures, such as a new pier and grand hotel, were built on the southeastern end of the island and could be accessed by ferry. Around this time wealthy northerners began vacationing on the island. Twentieth Century The St. Simons Island Pier and Village opening in 1924 of the Brunswick–St. Simons Highway, today known as the Torras Causeway, was a milestone in the development of resorts in the area. St. Simons's beaches were now easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. More than 5,000 automobiles took the short drive from Brunswick to St. Simons via the causeway on its opening day, paving the way for convenient residential and resort development. In 1926 automotive pioneer Howard Coffin of Detroit, Michigan, bought large tracts of land on St. Simons, including the former Retreat Plantation, and constructed a golf course, yacht club, paved roads, and a residential subdivision. Although the causeway had brought large numbers of summer people to the island, St. Simons remained a small community with only a few hundred permanent residents until the 1940s. The St. Simons Island outbreak of World War II (1941-45) brought more visitors and residents to St. Simons. Troops stationed at Jacksonville, Florida; Savannah; and nearby Camp Stewart took weekend vacations on the island, and a new naval air base and radar school became home to even more officers and soldiers. The increased wartime population brought the island its first public school. With a major shipyard for the production of Liberty ships in nearby Brunswick, the waters of St. Simons became active with German U-boats. In April 1942, just off the coast, the Texas Company oil tanker S. S. Oklahoma and the S. S. Esso Baton Rouge were torpedoed by the Germans, bringing the war very close to home for island residents. Due in large part to the military's improvement of the island's infrastructure during the war, development on the island boomed in the 1950s and 1960s. More permanent homes and subdivisions were built, and the island was no longer just a summer resort but also a thriving community. In 1950 the Methodist conference and retreat center Epworth by the Sea opened on Gascoigne Bluff. In 1961 novelist Eugenia Price visited St. Simons and began work on her first works of fiction, known as the St. Simons Trilogy. Inspired by real events on the island, Price's trilogy renewed interest in the history of Georgia's coast, and the novelist herself relocated to the island in 1965 and lived there for thirty-one years. St. Simons is also home to contemporary Georgia writer Tina McElroy Ansa. Since Epworth by the Sea 1980 St. Simons's population has doubled. The island's continued status as a vacation destination and its ongoing development boom have put historic landmarks and natural areas at risk. While such landmarks as the Fort Frederica ruins and the Battle of Bloody Marsh site are preserved and maintained by the National Park Service, and while the historic lighthouse is maintained by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society, historic Ebos Landing has been taken over by a sewage treatment plant. Several coastal organizations have formed in recent years to save natural areas on the island. The St. Simons Land Trust, for example, has received donations of large tracts of land and plans to protect property in the island's three traditional African American neighborhoods. Despite its rapid growth and development, St. Simons remains one of the most beautiful and important islands on the Georgia coast.

Elegant home gym photo in Boston

One small window, faux woodgrain cabinets and lots of doors made this closed-off Arlington kitchen feel dark and drab, the total opposite of the vibrant young family of four that lives here. To brighten and open up the small kitchen, we removed the wall separating the dining room, expanded the window above the sink and installed a French door to let even more light in from an adjoining sun room. Light now pours into the kitchen, making it feel welcoming, airy and bright. To accommodate the expanded kitchen, we removed a hulking set of built-ins from the dining room which provided two extra feet to work with. The larger footprint allowed us to relocate major appliances and provide a generous amount of storage and prep space including a food safe butcher block to the right of the range. Natural wood elements such as the chopping block, reclaimed shelves and beautiful new floors add character and warmth to the all-white kitchen. One of the must-haves in this renovation was a farmhouse sink which is a great way to maximize function when a smaller sink base is used. We opted to take the tile backsplash all the way to the ceiling along the window wall, creating a more polished look with the added bonus of making the ceiling feel taller. The subway tiles’ subtle texture adds depth to the simple white-on-white motif and the change to a herringbone pattern behind the range adds visual interest without feeling too busy. A crisp white backdrop is perfect for adding pops of color with dishware, accessories and the family’s vintage stand mixer. The newly renovated kitchen-dining area is much better suited for this family’s active lifestyle and the updated design now complements the rest of their stylish home. Photos by Stacy Zarin Goldberg

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home. The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living. The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home. The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play. The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. Energy Efficient features include: • The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade • 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques • Foil covered roof sheathing • Extensive use of blown in cellulous • All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass • Tank-less water heaters • Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV. Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency. These items include: • 2x6 walls with staggered studs • Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting • Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows • ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls. The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

We just completed this complicated bathroom remodel. Now you can step into serene luxury primary bathroom with oversized Royal Peacock porcelain slabs that create a bold, sophisticated statement in this meticulously designed bathroom. The deep, calming hues of the tiles contrast elegantly with sleek, modern fixtures, inviting a spa-like experience. Every detail in this space exudes elegance and relaxation, perfect for unwinding in style. Designed by @signaturedesigns.kbi and multiple collaborators @lusso_porcelain_and_design View the entire project on our website. https://www.signaturedesignskitchenbath.com/.../littleton... #masterbathroom #masterbathroomdesign #bathroomideas #bathroom #bathroomstyling #bathroominspo #homedesign #interiordesign #interiordesigner #bathroomlights

Tropical Pool Landscape
Inspiration for a large tropical partial sun courtyard gravel water fountain landscape in Tampa.

Inner Mission SF garden with water feature and horizontal wood fencing.
Inspiration for a small modern courtyard water fountain landscape in San Francisco.

Seahorse birdbath with succulents
Inspiration for a contemporary courtyard water fountain landscape in Orange County.

Ever notice how your iron fence looks more rust than paint after another brutal Chicago winter? That is usually the moment homeowners start searching for a painting contractor who actually understands metal - not just someone who will brush a coat of black paint over active corrosion and call it done. At Windy City Painters, iron fence restoration is one of our most requested services on the North Side and Near West Side, and for good reason. These fences are old, they are beautiful, and they deserve a proper finish system. PROJECT OVERVIEW This project involved a full ornamental iron fence on a North Side greystone property. The fence was original to the building - likely installed in the 1910s or 1920s - and had gone through multiple paint cycles without any rust conversion work. By the time Windy City Painters arrived, the horizontal rails showed active pitting, the vertical spindles had surface rust under lifting paint, and two corner posts had minor joint separation. The homeowner wanted the fence restored to a sharp satin black finish that would hold through multiple Chicago winters. MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS Ospho Rust Converter - phosphoric acid formula that chemically neutralizes iron oxide and converts it to iron phosphate, a stable paintable surface. Used on all pitted and actively corroded areas before primer application. Rust-Oleum DTM Rust-Inhibitive Primer - direct-to-metal primer that bonds to both converted rust zones and bare metal, blocking moisture intrusion at the substrate level. Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic Topcoat - flexible, moisture-resistant finish formulated to expand and contract with metal through temperature cycling. Applied in two finish coats in satin black. For cases with deeper rust penetration, Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter and Metal Primer is an alternative that combines conversion and priming in a single product, useful on complex ornamental profiles where two-product systems are harder to apply. THE PROCESS Step 1 - Mechanical Preparation. Windy City Painters wire-wheels all loose rust, flaking paint, and scale using angle grinders fitted with wire wheel attachments. On heavily pitted sections, needle gun descaling is used to reach rust in tight ornamental grooves. This step is non-negotiable. No coating bonds reliably to iron oxide, and skipping this step is the single most common reason iron fence paint fails within a year. Step 2 - Rust Conversion. Ospho is brushed into all pitted and bare metal areas and allowed to fully react. The surface shifts from orange to a grayish-black iron phosphate layer. This stable base accepts primer without the risk of rust migrating upward through the paint film over time. Step 3 - Primer Coat. Rust-Oleum DTM rust-inhibitive primer is applied full coverage over the entire fence surface, including areas that appeared clean but showed minor surface oxidation. DTM primer acts as a moisture barrier and mechanical adhesion layer for the finish coats. Step 4 - Finish Coats. Two coats of Sherwin-Williams DTM acrylic topcoat are applied in satin black, with adequate dry time between coats. The DTM formula remains flexible after cure, allowing the iron to expand and contract through Chicago temperature swings without the topcoat cracking or peeling at joints. CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES Ornamental iron on Chicago greystones, two-flats, and Victorian brownstones was almost never hot-dip galvanized. It was painted from installation and has relied on continuous paint maintenance ever since. Chicago winters add specific stress: freeze-thaw cycles force water into any paint film crack, expanding it; road salt spray elevates corrosive chloride exposure; and humidity during spring thaw keeps metal surfaces wet for extended periods. This combination accelerates rust spread beneath paint films that appear intact on the surface. WHAT TO EXPECT LONG-TERM A properly prepped and primed iron fence finished with a DTM topcoat system should hold 5-8 years in Chicago conditions before any touch-up is warranted. Annual inspection of joints, welds, and areas near grade level will catch early moisture entry before it becomes a larger rust issue. Windy City Painters recommends scheduling touch-up earlier rather than waiting for full paint failure to protect the prep investment. PRO TIPS Tip 1 - Address joint separation before painting. If fence rails have separated at welds or mechanical joints, water will enter and rust will restart from inside the connection point regardless of the exterior coating. Flag any separated joints for welding before any paint system is applied. Tip 2 - Never use latex house paint on iron fences. Standard exterior latex lacks the adhesion and flexibility for bare metal. Always use a product labeled DTM or specify a rust-inhibitive primer underneath any finish coat applied to iron. Tip 3 - Paint in late spring or early fall. Iron fences exposed to full sun in peak summer heat can reach surface temperatures that cause solvent-based coatings to blister during application. Ideal application conditions are 50-85 degrees Fahrenheit with low humidity and no direct intense sun on the metal surface. Learn more about iron fence painting cost in Chicago and schedule your free estimate at windypainters.com FAQ Q: What does iron fence painting cost in Chicago? A: Windy City Painters typically prices residential iron fence painting at $8-$18 per linear foot. Variables include rust severity, spindle density, ornamental profile complexity, and whether rust conversion products like Ospho or Corroseal are required before priming. Q: Can you paint over rust without grinding it off first? A: No. Windy City Painters always performs mechanical prep before any coating. Wire wheel grinding removes loose scale and flaking paint. Rust converters handle residual oxidation chemically. Skipping this step means the new paint film will delaminate within one season. Q: How do I know if my iron fence needs a welder before painting? A: Windy City Painters inspects all joints and rail connections during the estimate. Rail separation, cracked welds, or sections that flex when pressed indicate structural issues that should be welded before any paint system is applied to avoid reopening at stress points. Q: What is the difference between Ospho and Corroseal? A: Both are rust converters. Ospho is a phosphoric acid solution applied as a separate step before priming, giving maximum control over conversion and primer selection. Corroseal combines conversion and primer in one product, which works well on complex ornamental profiles where a two-step system is harder to apply evenly. Q: How long does the paint last on an iron fence in Chicago? A: With full mechanical prep, rust conversion, DTM primer, and two DTM topcoats, Windy City Painters clients typically see 5-8 years of performance before touch-up is needed, even through Chicago freeze-thaw cycling and road salt exposure. Q: Do you paint iron fences that are still structurally sound but heavily rusted on the surface? A: Yes. Surface rust, even heavy pitting, does not necessarily indicate structural failure. Windy City Painters evaluates each fence individually. As long as the metal is sound under the rust, proper mechanical prep and a rust converter restore the surface to a paintable condition.

This lakefront property set in a nice quiet cove on Lake Sam Rayburn. The entire project was planned and built by carter & company for large family events. The 3 1/2 level structure is designed with craftsman influences and functions well as a large fishing lodge designed for year-round entertaining. Ground level includes outdoor kitchen/dining area,separate outdoor living/gaming area with custom cypress beamed furniture built by carter & company. A 1700 Sq deck overlooks beautiful Sam Rayburn and garage doors open across front and rear elevations to create open breeze ways throughout all downstairs areas. Second floor includes living dining and master suite .an enclosed screen porch extends all the way across the lake side with an old wooden cistern structure which houses an outdoor hot tub. The screen porch has it own 5 ton central unit which is only shared with the downstairs shop area.it also has a 50,000 but ventless fireplace on one end which creates a ( winter area ) on the screen porch. The open spaces of living/dining also share aux heating via early 1900's Wood stove (pot belly) which was refurbished and was originally used in a girls dormitory somewhere in Colorado. Kitchen amenities include professional series equipment, a baking center, dumb waiter to downstairs kitchen, pressed tin ceilings. The entire structure touts custom made knotty alder moldings cabinets and doors. The interior walls are also slatted knotty alder with paint stained finishes. The third floor houses 3 guest bedrooms 1 full bath 1 jack and Jill bath, a 10 x 10 sleeping tent with chandelier, queen mattress, and lake view window. Attic does not exist, instead we incorporated open air vaulted ceilings with turnbuckle collar ties and an upper sleeping loft for kids accessed by custom ships ladder. Other areas of interest include front open air materials lift, 100 ft redneck water slide assembled during summertime and rolling boat dock for lake activities.

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home. The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living. The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home. The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play. The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. Energy Efficient features include: • The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade • 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques • Foil covered roof sheathing • Extensive use of blown in cellulous • All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass • Tank-less water heaters • Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV. Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency. These items include: • 2x6 walls with staggered studs • Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting • Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows • ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls. The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

This lakefront property set in a nice quiet cove on Lake Sam Rayburn. The entire project was planned and built by carter & company for large family events. The 3 1/2 level structure is designed with craftsman influences and functions well as a large fishing lodge designed for year-round entertaining. Ground level includes outdoor kitchen/dining area,separate outdoor living/gaming area with custom cypress beamed furniture built by carter & company. A 1700 Sq deck overlooks beautiful Sam Rayburn and garage doors open across front and rear elevations to create open breeze ways throughout all downstairs areas. Second floor includes living dining and master suite .an enclosed screen porch extends all the way across the lake side with an old wooden cistern structure which houses an outdoor hot tub. The screen porch has it own 5 ton central unit which is only shared with the downstairs shop area.it also has a 50,000 but ventless fireplace on one end which creates a ( winter area ) on the screen porch. The open spaces of living/dining also share aux heating via early 1900's Wood stove (pot belly) which was refurbished and was originally used in a girls dormitory somewhere in Colorado. Kitchen amenities include professional series equipment, a baking center, dumb waiter to downstairs kitchen, pressed tin ceilings. The entire structure touts custom made knotty alder moldings cabinets and doors. The interior walls are also slatted knotty alder with paint stained finishes. The third floor houses 3 guest bedrooms 1 full bath 1 jack and Jill bath, a 10 x 10 sleeping tent with chandelier, queen mattress, and lake view window. Attic does not exist, instead we incorporated open air vaulted ceilings with turnbuckle collar ties and an upper sleeping loft for kids accessed by custom ships ladder. Other areas of interest include front open air materials lift, 100 ft redneck water slide assembled during summertime and rolling boat dock for lake activities.