Search results for "Additional costs" in Home Design Ideas

Talk about stunning bachelor pad! This Yaletown open concept suite was purchased and renovated with wow factor. No detail was overlooked.
The kitchen was standard gloss cabinets found in most developments over the last 5-10 years. The new owner wanted something different and custom. We decided to cool down the colours and install dark and natural woods to make the loft beams pop.
The totally re-vamped kitchen features matte flat panelled grey cabinetry with a contrasting raw oak island and panelled integrated fridge with matching panty. The appliances are all condo sized energy efficient European models featuring a 30” fridge, 4 burner gas stove and a panelled dishwasher drawer. This kitchen’s long island offers plenty of storage and can seat many at the counter for entertaining despite it’s only 750 sq ft total size. We installed a Grohe Blu sparkling faucet to ensure sparkling water is always on tap and ready when entertaining. This was a nice splurge that any guest or home owner will appreciate for years to come.
The kitchen was re-configured to wrap existing pot lights into kitchen valences in order to keep electrical costs down. This special feature is ingenious as it illuminates all the new millwork without additional electrical work. Under counter valence lighting was also installed on a dimmer, so lighting can be controlled.
The living room matches the kitchen, it features a large TV and custom chunky floating millwork which ties in the large character beams throughout the unit. Peekaboo views of the concrete walls can be seen which add to the dimension of the wood floating shelf.
This is a home anyone would be happy to spend a few hours in, the only worry is guest come and they will not want to leave!

Absolute Stone Design fabricated this kitchen and provided us this photo! http://www.absolutestonedesign.com
This kitchen has Invisible Gray marble with a polished finish.
Understanding Marble:
Marble is a porous, high-maintenance surface.
Be prepared to see some scratches. Marble is a softer stone. However, marble is still so beautiful with the scratches! If you’ve ever gone to Italy, you can see the beautiful marble on floors and many restaurants. It’s a classic lasting look. Even with scratches.
If you don't mind the extra work, they are a beautiful addition. Marble has a multifaceted ability to work with so many different design styles. If you're a homeowner looking for a wipe-and-go countertop, though, you'll probably want to skip this one.
It's cost-effective, depending on the type of marble you buy. Carrara marble (a grayer version with softer veins from Carrara, Italy) is one of the least expensive natural countertop materials on the market, mainly because it's readily available. Calacatta marble, which offers a whiter surface and more dramatic veining, and the price tag goes up.
Marble is heat-resistant — which is great — but you still need to be careful. Marble is heat resistant. Despite its ability to withstand high temps, you never want to place a piping hot pot on for risk of discoloring or burning the surface. We recommend always using a pot holder anyways.
We don’t want to dissuade you from using marble. In fact, I personally have a marble island in my kitchen. Stone Action solely wants you to be informed so that you’re choosing the right material for your project.
We hope you personally come check out our marble or other stone selection!
See more marble or other types of Stone Action’s stone selection:
http://www.stoneaction.com

CONTACT CONSTRUCTIVE ALTERNATIVES WHEN YOU’RE READY TO BUILD BETTER IN THE MOUNTAINS!
This one-of-a-kind custom luxury mountain residence applied a high performance green building envelope, and other smart and renewable technologies. In addition to ample living space, the residence includes exquisite car rebuilding and show room facilities. We cut into the top of a mountain side to offer the homeowners 360 degree panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder and Denver. We used 12”- 22” R-40+ battered foundation walls, 8” engineered LSL FSC lumber throughout, and an elliptical and radial building design.
We also installed a 12 kW solar PV power system with a battery back-up. While the homeowners remain connected to the grid, their meter has yet to move forward.
We used ICF forms for fire and wind resistance while taking advantage of their incredible insulating and customizing properties. ICFs are the perfect choice when avoiding square corners is desired at all costs. The solar thermal collectors you see out front were integrated with geothermal and HRV/ERV ventilation and environmental control systems. By designing this kind of in-floor heating and cooling system it keeps the ambient temperatures inside this stunning home comfortable and healthy year round.
Check out some of the images we captured during the beginning, middle, and completion of this unique and eclectic Sunshine Canyon 8,000 square foot Net-Zero Luxury Home.
Find the right local pro for your project

PREPARATION AND PLANNING
First, we assessed existing wall conditions and repaired minor imperfections. Next, surfaces were thoroughly cleaned and primed for maximum adhesion. Then, precise measurements ensured perfect pattern alignment throughout the space.
INSTALLATION PROCESS
Subsequently, we carefully cut each strip accounting for pattern matching. Moreover, professional installation techniques eliminated bubbles and ensured seamless seams. Finally, detailed finishing work created flawless edges and corners.
CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES
Furthermore, older Chicago buildings present unique challenges including settling walls, vintage plaster surfaces, and lead paint considerations. Therefore, proper preparation becomes crucial for long-lasting results that withstand seasonal temperature fluctuations.
RESULTS AND QUALITY
Consequently, the finished installation showcases perfect pattern alignment and professional craftsmanship. The wallpaper enhances the entry hall's architectural character while providing durability for high-traffic use.
PROFESSION AL TIPS
Homeowners should always hire experienced installers for complex patterns. Additionally, investing in quality primer saves money long-term by ensuring proper adhesion and easier future removal.
See more work and request free estimate at windypainters.com.
Q: How long does wallpaper installation take? / A: Most entry halls require one to two days depending on pattern complexity, surface preparation needs, and room size for professional wallpaper installation.
Q: Can you install over existing wallpaper? / A: We recommend removing old wallpaper first for best adhesion, though some situations allow installation over existing wallpaper after proper preparation and assessment.
Q: What wallpaper works best in Chicago? / A: Vinyl and fabric-backed wallpapers handle Chicago's climate changes best, providing durability against humidity fluctuations and temperature variations throughout seasons.
Q: Do you guarantee installation work? / A: Yes, Windy City Painters provides comprehensive warranties covering wallpaper installation craftsmanship and adhesion for specified warranty periods on all projects.
Q: How do you handle pattern matching? / A: We carefully measure walls, calculate pattern repeats, and plan installation sequence to ensure perfect wallpaper installation pattern alignment throughout the space.
Q: Can wallpaper work in vintage buildings? / A: Absolutely, we specialize in wallpaper installation for older Chicago homes, understanding unique challenges like settling walls and vintage plaster surfaces.
Q: What preparation is required? / A: Proper wallpaper installation requires surface assessment, repairs, thorough cleaning, appropriate priming, and climate control for optimal adhesion and lasting results.
Q: Do you remove old wallpaper? / A: Yes, we provide professional wallpaper removal services using safe techniques that protect underlying wall surfaces during the wallpaper installation preparation process.
Q: How much does installation cost? / A: Wallpaper installation costs vary based on room size, pattern complexity, surface preparation needs, and wallpaper selection - contact for detailed estimates.
Q: What tools do professionals use? / A: Professional wallpaper installation requires specialized smoothing tools, precision cutting equipment, quality brushes, and professional-grade adhesives for optimal results and longevity.

McKeesport Downtown Housing, formerly a YMCA, is an 84-unit SRO for people at risk of homelessness. The old brick and terracotta building was important historically for McKeesport. The decision to design the project to Passive House criteria actually went a long way to making the pro-forma work. This project was the first large scale retrofit to be designed to meet Passive House Standards in the US. Another major concern of the project team was to maintain the historic charm of the building.
Space was at a premium and a reorganization of space allowed for making larger resident rooms. Through a community process with various stakeholders, amenities were identified and added to the project, including a community room, a bike storage area, exterior smoking balconies, single-user rest rooms, a bed bug room for non-toxic treatment of bed bugs, and communal kitchens to provide healthy options for food. The renovation includes new additional lighting, air-conditioning, make-up air and ventilation systems, an elevator, and cooking facilities. A cold-weather shelter, 60-day emergency housing, bridge housing, and section 8 apartment rentals make up the housing programs within the shelter. Thoughtful Balance designed the interiors, and selected the furniture for durability and resistance to bed bugs.
The project team worked closely with Zola Windows to specify a unique uPVC window that not only offers passive house performance levels at an affordable cost, but also harmonizes with the building’s historic aesthetic. Zola’s American Heritage SDH (simulated double hung) from the popular, budget-friendly Thermo uPVC line was specified for the project. The windows implemented in this project feature a lower tilt & turn window and a fixed upper for maximum airtightness and thermal performance. The implementation of these windows helped the project team achieve a very significant energy consumption reduction of at least 75%.
Photographer: Alexander Denmarsh

Absolute Stone Design fabricated this kitchen and provided us this photo! http://www.absolutestonedesign.com
This kitchen has Invisible Gray marble with a polished finish.
Understanding Marble:
Marble is a porous, high-maintenance surface.
Be prepared to see some scratches. Marble is a softer stone. However, marble is still so beautiful with the scratches! If you’ve ever gone to Italy, you can see the beautiful marble on floors and many restaurants. It’s a classic lasting look. Even with scratches.
If you don't mind the extra work, they are a beautiful addition. Marble has a multifaceted ability to work with so many different design styles. If you're a homeowner looking for a wipe-and-go countertop, though, you'll probably want to skip this one.
It's cost-effective, depending on the type of marble you buy. Carrara marble (a grayer version with softer veins from Carrara, Italy) is one of the least expensive natural countertop materials on the market, mainly because it's readily available. Calacatta marble, which offers a whiter surface and more dramatic veining, and the price tag goes up.
Marble is heat-resistant — which is great — but you still need to be careful. Marble is heat resistant. Despite its ability to withstand high temps, you never want to place a piping hot pot on for risk of discoloring or burning the surface. We recommend always using a pot holder anyways.
We don’t want to dissuade you from using marble. In fact, I personally have a marble island in my kitchen. Stone Action solely wants you to be informed so that you’re choosing the right material for your project.
We hope you personally come check out our marble or other stone selection!
See more marble or other types of Stone Action’s stone selection:
http://www.stoneaction.com

This remodel took a dated and cramped bathroom and transformed it into a classy oasis for our Lowry clients. The clients had a limited budget and wanted to leave the space as in-place as possible. However, the large drop in tub ate valuable floor space and a half wall between the shower and tub had become a holding place for random items without a home. The thick frame on the shower glass made the shower feel extremely small, and the dated lighting and fixtures further depressed the space. We proposed a traditional and elegant design that consider the client's budgetary and spatial constraints. We removed the existing drop-in tub and replaced it with a lovely free-standing soaker. The length of this tub is short, but the depth is exaggerated, making it an ideal replacement in this tiny footprint. The shower glass was swapped for framless glass that boldly expands space. We tore out the existing carpet and installed gorgeous wood-look tile that adds depth and warmth to the room. The clients opted to keep their existing vanity to save cost, so a new top was added to bring the aesthetic up to the level of the new additions. The wall paint was taken from a buttery yellow to a soft gray-green, accented by a darker version of this same color on the siding barn door and toilet room door. New vanity lights, faucets, and storage shelves were installed to help our clients organize and keep things off the counter tops. Finally, new custom up-down window shades were curated for the bathroom to add to the final touch. This space is a simple scope with a dramatic transformation that introduces a timeless look for years to come.

QZ308 AQUA BRANCH
FEATURED:
The Aqua Collection Inspired by winter and related watery effects, is one of the most iconic collections in the Aqua family. Clean and stylish Aqua's handmade glass is designed to be elegant and slick, with bubbles inside, that is its trademark. The metal structure consists of an entangled spiral of branches that leaves the glass levitating in the air. This line has a huge range of models and solutions but the new colored aqua glass presents now multiple color finishes. Multiple variations of screens allow separation of spaces like living rooms and large areas.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Collection: Organic
Size: 32” Width x 138” Height (Custom sizes also available)
Shape: Branches Pendant
Frame Finish: Bronze (Different finish available at no additional cost)
Materials Bronze, Glass
Weight: 183 lbs
Extension: Adjustable rod for a customizable length up to 12 ft
Bulbs: 32 Lights G9 40 Watt 110 V USA/220 V Europe -candelabra bulbs (included)
Assembly: Fully assembled
Dimmer Switch Compatible: Optional
Shipping: Free Door-To-Door Shipping Worldwide!
Rush Order: 3-5 Weeks; 15% added to total
Regular Lead Time: 6-8 Weeks
Warranty: 5 Years Full Coverage (includes parts replacement)
SIZE OPTIONS:
Size: Price:
18” Width x 87” Height $4,818.00
24” Width x 87” Height $8,164.00
32” Width x 138” Height $12,870.00
39” Width x 87” Height $16,815.00
44” Width x 155” Height $23,980.00
48” Width x 160” Height $25,905.00
Custom Sizes, Finishes, Colors Available Upon Request

KA1872 SUSPENDED GLOBES
DESCRIPTION:
The pleasant light it spreads is very atmospheric. Completed with the structured glass and brass details, this chandelier will contribute to a luxurious character of the interior. He nicely brass frame of this chandelier is very elegant; the combination of the glass bulbs makes a gorgeous eyecatcher. We really like to play with light and shadow to create an atmosphere within an interior space. Because our lighting is made by a workforce that still relies on traditional working methods, each product is unique and carries with it the sensitivity of the artisan. These unique shapes and colors can be only created using traditional hand-blown glass techniques.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Collection: Vintage
Size: 24” Length x 24” Width x 32” Height (Custom sizes also available)
Extension: Adjustable rod comes in connectable segments customizable up to 12 ft
Shape: Pendant
Frame Finish: Polished Gold (Different options available at no additional cost)
Materials: Brass, Glass
Weight: 25 lbs
Bulbs: 120V UL, cUL Certified
Assembly: Partly assembled
Dimmer Switch Compatible: Optional
Shipping: LTL
Rush Order: 4-6 Weeks; 15% added to the total
Regular Lead Time: 6-10 Weeks
Warranty: 5 Years Full Coverage (includes replacement parts)
SIZE OPTIONS:
Size: Price:
17” Length x 17” Width x 22” Height $1,980.00
20” Length x 20” Width x 27” Height $2,748.00
24” Length x 24” Width x 32” Height (as shown) $3,915.00
28” Length x 28” Width x 37” Height $5,340.00
31” Length x 31” Width x 42” Height $7,570.00
Custom Sizes, Finishes, Colors Available Upon Request

Choosing to abandon uniformity in your kitchen can be a great choice if you're looking to opt out of a monochrome aesthetic. Two-toned kitchen cabinets add visual interest and contrast while drawing focus to different features within the space. Designs utilizing two-toned cabinets have become very popular in recent years and it's not a trend that will be fading out any time soon.
Our clients opted for a combination of Earl Grey and Macchiato Classic cabinetry in their two-toned kitchen. The large island with its second faucet, sink, microwave drawer and lower storage is the focal point of the room and a great work surface for food prep and entertaining. A vertical pull out PowerDock was installed into the top of the island for plugging in kitchen tools, phones and laptops. Dolomite Marble subway tile and Brunello quartz countertops brighten up the kitchen and balance out the tone of the cabinets creating a light and airy feel. The addition of contrasting touches such as the Honey Bronze, Flat Black hardware and Champaign Bronze faucets, accessories the room beautifully. The subdued and sophisticated style of this two-toned kitchen is exquisite and shows the various ways that two-tone cabinets can be versatile and appealing.
Some of the other areas that were remodeled in this home included the complete overhaul of the existing stair well, a guest bath and laundry area.
The guest bath has beautiful vanity cabinets in Celest finish, Monochrome Lotus Deco tile and very reflective Midnight Dots in the shower floor and niche. The combination of all three give a striking white, blue and black design that will inspire and show that you can use pattern and texture in small spaces. A twenty four inch wall mounted shower seat can be lifted and secured when in use and tucked away to allow access out of the shower. A pocket door from the guest bathroom provides a second access point to the hallway with the laundry that has also been revamped with the same style and finish of cabinetry.

KA1872 SUSPENDED GLOBES
DESCRIPTION:
The pleasant light it spreads is very atmospheric. Completed with the structured glass and brass details, this chandelier will contribute to a luxurious character of the interior. He nicely brass frame of this chandelier is very elegant; the combination of the glass bulbs makes a gorgeous eyecatcher. We really like to play with light and shadow to create an atmosphere within an interior space. Because our lighting is made by a workforce that still relies on traditional working methods, each product is unique and carries with it the sensitivity of the artisan. These unique shapes and colors can be only created using traditional hand-blown glass techniques.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Collection: Vintage
Size: 24” Length x 24” Width x 32” Height (Custom sizes also available)
Extension: Adjustable rod comes in connectable segments customizable up to 12 ft
Shape: Pendant
Frame Finish: Polished Gold (Different options available at no additional cost)
Materials: Brass, Glass
Weight: 25 lbs
Bulbs: 120V UL, cUL Certified
Assembly: Partly assembled
Dimmer Switch Compatible: Optional
Shipping: LTL
Rush Order: 4-6 Weeks; 15% added to the total
Regular Lead Time: 6-10 Weeks
Warranty: 5 Years Full Coverage (includes replacement parts)
SIZE OPTIONS:
Size: Price:
17” Length x 17” Width x 22” Height $1,980.00
20” Length x 20” Width x 27” Height $2,748.00
24” Length x 24” Width x 32” Height (as shown) $3,915.00
28” Length x 28” Width x 37” Height $5,340.00
31” Length x 31” Width x 42” Height $7,570.00
Custom Sizes, Finishes, Colors Available Upon Request

Absolute Stone Design fabricated this kitchen and provided us this photo! http://www.absolutestonedesign.com
This kitchen has Invisible Gray marble with a polished finish.
Understanding Marble:
Marble is a porous, high-maintenance surface.
Be prepared to see some scratches. Marble is a softer stone. However, marble is still so beautiful with the scratches! If you’ve ever gone to Italy, you can see the beautiful marble on floors and many restaurants. It’s a classic lasting look. Even with scratches.
If you don't mind the extra work, they are a beautiful addition. Marble has a multifaceted ability to work with so many different design styles. If you're a homeowner looking for a wipe-and-go countertop, though, you'll probably want to skip this one.
It's cost-effective, depending on the type of marble you buy. Carrara marble (a grayer version with softer veins from Carrara, Italy) is one of the least expensive natural countertop materials on the market, mainly because it's readily available. Calacatta marble, which offers a whiter surface and more dramatic veining, and the price tag goes up.
Marble is heat-resistant — which is great — but you still need to be careful. Marble is heat resistant. Despite its ability to withstand high temps, you never want to place a piping hot pot on for risk of discoloring or burning the surface. We recommend always using a pot holder anyways.
We don’t want to dissuade you from using marble. In fact, I personally have a marble island in my kitchen. Stone Action solely wants you to be informed so that you’re choosing the right material for your project.
We hope you personally come check out our marble or other stone selection!
See more marble or other types of Stone Action’s stone selection:
http://www.stoneaction.com

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!

CONTACT CONSTRUCTIVE ALTERNATIVES WHEN YOU’RE READY TO BUILD BETTER IN THE MOUNTAINS!
This one-of-a-kind custom luxury mountain residence applied a high performance green building envelope, and other smart and renewable technologies. In addition to ample living space, the residence includes exquisite car rebuilding and show room facilities. We cut into the top of a mountain side to offer the homeowners 360 degree panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder and Denver. We used 12”- 22” R-40+ battered foundation walls, 8” engineered LSL FSC lumber throughout, and an elliptical and radial building design.
We also installed a 12 kW solar PV power system with a battery back-up. While the homeowners remain connected to the grid, their meter has yet to move forward.
We used ICF forms for fire and wind resistance while taking advantage of their incredible insulating and customizing properties. ICFs are the perfect choice when avoiding square corners is desired at all costs. The solar thermal collectors you see out front were integrated with geothermal and HRV/ERV ventilation and environmental control systems. By designing this kind of in-floor heating and cooling system it keeps the ambient temperatures inside this stunning home comfortable and healthy year round.
Check out some of the images we captured during the beginning, middle, and completion of this unique and eclectic Sunshine Canyon 8,000 square foot Net-Zero Luxury Home.

Absolute Stone Design fabricated this kitchen and provided us this photo! http://www.absolutestonedesign.com
This kitchen has Invisible Gray marble with a polished finish.
Understanding Marble:
Marble is a porous, high-maintenance surface.
Be prepared to see some scratches. Marble is a softer stone. However, marble is still so beautiful with the scratches! If you’ve ever gone to Italy, you can see the beautiful marble on floors and many restaurants. It’s a classic lasting look. Even with scratches.
If you don't mind the extra work, they are a beautiful addition. Marble has a multifaceted ability to work with so many different design styles. If you're a homeowner looking for a wipe-and-go countertop, though, you'll probably want to skip this one.
It's cost-effective, depending on the type of marble you buy. Carrara marble (a grayer version with softer veins from Carrara, Italy) is one of the least expensive natural countertop materials on the market, mainly because it's readily available. Calacatta marble, which offers a whiter surface and more dramatic veining, and the price tag goes up.
Marble is heat-resistant — which is great — but you still need to be careful. Marble is heat resistant. Despite its ability to withstand high temps, you never want to place a piping hot pot on for risk of discoloring or burning the surface. We recommend always using a pot holder anyways.
We don’t want to dissuade you from using marble. In fact, I personally have a marble island in my kitchen. Stone Action solely wants you to be informed so that you’re choosing the right material for your project.
We hope you personally come check out our marble or other stone selection!
See more marble or other types of Stone Action’s stone selection:
http://www.stoneaction.com

IQ2041 MONTICELLO ANTIQUE ENGLISH CHANDELIER
DESCRIPTION:
This exceptional, handcrafted antique chandelier is a truly magnificent work of art. Unusual for its large size and beautiful design. The chandelier's central basket is hung with faceted drops; from the center of the chandelier issue four tiers of sixty-four lights on scroll branches with gilt etched 'hurricane' shades. The chandelier hangs from a central baluster, and is breathtaking for its impressive beauty and scale.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Collection: Traditional
Size: 77" Width x 77" Depth x 122" Height (Custom sizes also available)
Shape: Pendant
Metal Finished: Gold Plated (Different finish available at no additional cost)
Materials: Crystal, Metal
Weight: N/A LBS.
Extension: Adjustable cord customizable up to 12 ft.
Bulbs: 40 Watt 110 V USA/220 V Europe -candelabra bulbs (included)
Assembly: Some assembly required.
Dimmer Switch Compatible: Optional
Shipping: Free Door-To-Door Shipping Worldwide!
Rush Order: 4-6 Weeks; 15% added to the total
Regular Lead Time: 6-10 Weeks
Warranty: 5 Years Full Coverage (includes replacement parts)
SIZE OPTIONS:
SIZES PRICES
40" Width x 40" Depth x 88" Height $8,516.00
48" Width x 48" Depth x 88" Height $11,284.00
55" Width x 55" Depth x 106" Height $15,590.00
64" Width x 64" Depth x 122" Height $19,320.00
77" Width x 77" Depth x 122" Height (as shown) $24,344.00Custom sizes, finishes and colors available upon request

AM0404 POETERY HANGING CRYSTAL PEARLS DROPS
FEATURED
In the tradition of the lustriers, from the end of the 17th century, the sewing of pearls is one of the favorite arguments of the art of luxurious lighting. Traditional techniques of lightning do not let themselves be confessed by the formal evolutions of the new lighting. Here, the stitching of crystal beads still inspires the creator, who knows how to simplify it to draw an effective poetic object. It takes up a recurring theme in classic lighting: water games and fountains that have so much inspired the decorative arts, especially in the 1920s. The simplicity of crystal pearl drops refreshes the theme and dresses the tube light fluorescent while diffusing it. No frills, like a designer gesture, these chandeliers have the modernity for asset, while remaining objects of tradition.
DESCRIPTION
Collection: Modern
Shape: Pendant
Size: 30" Width x 96" Height (Custom sizes are also available)
Extension: Adjustable rod customizable up to 12 ft.
Materials: Aluminium, Glass
Finish: Polished Nickel (Different frame finish options also available at no additional cost)
Lights: 6 Lights (included)
Weight: lbs
Assembly: Partly assembled
Dimmer Switch Compatible: Optional
Shipping: Free Door-To-Door Shipping Worldwide
Rush Order: 4-6 Weeks; 15% added to total
Regular Lead Time: 6-8 Weeks
Warranty: 5 Years Full Coverage (includes replacement parts)
SIZES OPTIONS:
Size Price
20" Width x 66" Height
$3,412.00
26" Width x 76" Height
$5,825.00
30" Width x 96" Height (as shown
$7,968.00
34" Width x 96" Height
$9,748.00
40" Width x 96" Height
$12,642.00
Custom Sizes, Finishes, Colors Available Upon Request

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

McKeesport Downtown Housing, formerly a YMCA, is an 84-unit SRO for people at risk of homelessness. The old brick and terracotta building was important historically for McKeesport. The decision to design the project to Passive House criteria actually went a long way to making the pro-forma work. This project was the first large scale retrofit to be designed to meet Passive House Standards in the US. Another major concern of the project team was to maintain the historic charm of the building.
Space was at a premium and a reorganization of space allowed for making larger resident rooms. Through a community process with various stakeholders, amenities were identified and added to the project, including a community room, a bike storage area, exterior smoking balconies, single-user rest rooms, a bed bug room for non-toxic treatment of bed bugs, and communal kitchens to provide healthy options for food. The renovation includes new additional lighting, air-conditioning, make-up air and ventilation systems, an elevator, and cooking facilities. A cold-weather shelter, 60-day emergency housing, bridge housing, and section 8 apartment rentals make up the housing programs within the shelter. Thoughtful Balance designed the interiors, and selected the furniture for durability and resistance to bed bugs.
The project team worked closely with Zola Windows to specify a unique uPVC window that not only offers passive house performance levels at an affordable cost, but also harmonizes with the building’s historic aesthetic. Zola’s American Heritage SDH (simulated double hung) from the popular, budget-friendly Thermo uPVC line was specified for the project. The windows implemented in this project feature a lower tilt & turn window and a fixed upper for maximum airtightness and thermal performance. The implementation of these windows helped the project team achieve a very significant energy consumption reduction of at least 75%.
Photographer: Alexander Denmarsh

This remodel took a dated and cramped bathroom and transformed it into a classy oasis for our Lowry clients. The clients had a limited budget and wanted to leave the space as in-place as possible. However, the large drop in tub ate valuable floor space and a half wall between the shower and tub had become a holding place for random items without a home. The thick frame on the shower glass made the shower feel extremely small, and the dated lighting and fixtures further depressed the space. We proposed a traditional and elegant design that consider the client's budgetary and spatial constraints. We removed the existing drop-in tub and replaced it with a lovely free-standing soaker. The length of this tub is short, but the depth is exaggerated, making it an ideal replacement in this tiny footprint. The shower glass was swapped for framless glass that boldly expands space. We tore out the existing carpet and installed gorgeous wood-look tile that adds depth and warmth to the room. The clients opted to keep their existing vanity to save cost, so a new top was added to bring the aesthetic up to the level of the new additions. The wall paint was taken from a buttery yellow to a soft gray-green, accented by a darker version of this same color on the siding barn door and toilet room door. New vanity lights, faucets, and storage shelves were installed to help our clients organize and keep things off the counter tops. Finally, new custom up-down window shades were curated for the bathroom to add to the final touch. This space is a simple scope with a dramatic transformation that introduces a timeless look for years to come.

This remodel took a dated and cramped bathroom and transformed it into a classy oasis for our Lowry clients. The clients had a limited budget and wanted to leave the space as in-place as possible. However, the large drop in tub ate valuable floor space and a half wall between the shower and tub had become a holding place for random items without a home. The thick frame on the shower glass made the shower feel extremely small, and the dated lighting and fixtures further depressed the space. We proposed a traditional and elegant design that consider the client's budgetary and spatial constraints. We removed the existing drop-in tub and replaced it with a lovely free-standing soaker. The length of this tub is short, but the depth is exaggerated, making it an ideal replacement in this tiny footprint. The shower glass was swapped for framless glass that boldly expands space. We tore out the existing carpet and installed gorgeous wood-look tile that adds depth and warmth to the room. The clients opted to keep their existing vanity to save cost, so a new top was added to bring the aesthetic up to the level of the new additions. The wall paint was taken from a buttery yellow to a soft gray-green, accented by a darker version of this same color on the siding barn door and toilet room door. New vanity lights, faucets, and storage shelves were installed to help our clients organize and keep things off the counter tops. Finally, new custom up-down window shades were curated for the bathroom to add to the final touch. This space is a simple scope with a dramatic transformation that introduces a timeless look for years to come.
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