Search results for "Additional gas efficient" in Home Design Ideas

Outdoor living space; screened porch
Mid-sized classic screened-in back porch idea in DC Metro with decking and a roof extension
Mid-sized classic screened-in back porch idea in DC Metro with decking and a roof extension

Mark Hoyle
Originally, this 3700 SF two level eclectic farmhouse from the mid 1980’s underwent design changes to reflect a more colonial style. Now, after being completely renovated with additional 2800 SF living space, it’s combined total of 6500 SF boasts an Energy Star certification of 5 stars.
Approaching this completed home, you will meander along a new driveway through the dense buffer of trees until you reach the clearing, and then circle a tiered fountain on axis with the front entry accentuating the symmetrical main structure. Many of the exterior changes included enclosing the front porch and rear screened porch, replacing windows, replacing all the vinyl siding with and fiber cement siding, creating a new front stoop with winding brick stairs and wrought iron railings as will as other additions to the left and rear of the home.
The existing interior was completely fro the studs and included modifying uses of many of the existing rooms such as converting the original dining room into an oval shaped theater with reclining theater seats, fiber-optic starlight ceiling and an 80” television with built-in surround sound. The laundry room increased in size by taking in the porch and received all new cabinets and finishes. The screened porch across the back of the house was enclosed to create a new dining room, enlarged the kitchen, all of which allows for a commanding view of the beautifully landscaped pool. The upper master suite begins by entering a private office then leads to a newly vaulted bedroom, a new master bathroom with natural light and an enlarged closet.
The major portion of the addition space was added to the left side as a part time home for the owner’s brother. This new addition boasts an open plan living, dining and kitchen, a master suite with a luxurious bathroom and walk–in closet, a guest suite, a garage and its own private gated brick courtyard entry and direct access to the well appointed pool patio.
And finally the last part of the project is the sunroom and new lagoon style pool. Tucked tightly against the rear of the home. This room was created to feel like a gazebo including a metal roof and stained wood ceiling, the foundation of this room was constructed with the pool to insure the look as if it is floating on the water. The pool’s negative edge opposite side allows open views of the trees beyond. There is a natural stone waterfall on one side of the pool and a shallow area on the opposite side for lounge chairs to be placed in it along with a hot tub that spills into the pool. The coping completes the pool’s natural shape and continues to the patio utilizing the same stone but separated by Zoysia grass keeping the natural theme. The finishing touches to this backyard oasis is completed utilizing large boulders, Tempest Torches, architectural lighting and abundant variety of landscaping complete the oasis for all to enjoy.

In 2019 this bathroom was remodeled for the five boys to use. The window in this bathroom was closed to allow for the addition, but this bathroom was able to get an updated layout and within the addition another bathroom was added.
The homeowners’ love for blue and white became the cornerstone of this bathroom’s design. To achieve their vision of a ship-inspired space, we introduced a color scheme that seamlessly blended these two favorite hues. The bathroom features two sinks, each with round mirrors and three blue light fixtures, giving it a nautical charm that is both calming and cohesive with the rest of this home’s updates.
The bathroom boasts a range of functional and aesthetic elements, including painted cabinets that complement the color scheme, Corian countertops that offer a sleek and easy-to-maintain surface, and a wood-grained tile floor that adds warmth and texture to the space.
The use of white and blue subway tile, wainscot tile surrounding the room, and black hardware create a nautical vibe that’s not only visually appealing but also durable. Stainless faucets and hooks (rather than towel bars) are not only stylish but also practical for a busy bathroom.
The nautical elegance of this bathroom is a testament to our commitment to understanding and bringing to life the unique vision of our clients. At Crystal Kitchen, we pride ourselves on creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also highly functional and tailored to your preferences.
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This Mercer Island Remodel and Addition involved building a new curved deck with outdoor kitchen and recreation space. A small addition was added to the kitchen along with a new vaulted ceiling.
Design by H2D Architecture + Design
Built by Logan's Hammer
Photos by Chris Watkins Photography

Completed in collaboration with Alison Hall Architect, this Spring 2025 project focused on creating a dedicated laundry space that improves both the functionality and organization of the home. The new laundry addition was carefully designed to maximize efficiency while complementing the home's existing architecture and style.
Custom cabinetry, ample storage, durable surfaces, and a thoughtful layout transformed a routine household task into a more convenient and enjoyable experience. Every detail was selected to enhance usability, from optimized workspace planning to smart storage solutions that help keep the area clean and organized.
The result is a bright, practical, and beautifully finished laundry room that supports the homeowners' daily needs while adding long-term value to the home.

Luxury resort style pool house addition, featuring a vinyl pool and spa with auto covers, and a gas fire feature for cool evenings and ambiance. Bluestone terraces surround the pool and spa complimenting the stone on the pool house. Simplistic plantings featuring creamy white hydrangea shrubs and a variety of arborvitae shrubs and trees to add texture.

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.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Columbus' Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

Full Home Renovation and Addition. Industrial Artist Style.
We removed most of the walls in the existing house and create a bridge to the addition over the detached garage. We created an very open floor plan which is industrial and cozy. Both bathrooms and the first floor have cement floors with a specialty stain, and a radiant heat system. We installed a custom kitchen, custom barn doors, custom furniture, all new windows and exterior doors. We loved the rawness of the beams and added corrugated tin in a few areas to the ceiling. We applied American Clay to many walls, and installed metal stairs. This was a fun project and we had a blast!
Tom Queally Photography

At Talon Construction Inc., we specialize in creating custom home additions that feel like a natural extension of your home. This sunroom addition in Middletown, Maryland showcases our design-build expertise, combining architectural harmony, craftsmanship, and livable design to create a comfortable space filled with natural light.
Exterior View
The exterior of this sunroom blends effortlessly with the existing home. Matching horizontal siding, clean white trim, and a precisely aligned roofline maintain the home’s original charm while adding a fresh, modern touch.
Large, energy-efficient windows invite sunlight into the space, while the glass bay window adds architectural interest and extra dimension. The addition connects directly to the deck, extending the home’s outdoor living area and creating a smooth transition between inside and out.
Interior View
Inside, the sunroom is bright, cozy, and functional. Expansive windows and a transom above the door flood the room with natural light, making it an ideal space for plants, relaxation, or a casual breakfast nook.
The neutral wall tones and heated ceramic tile flooring create warmth and elegance, while custom cabinetry topped with a granite countertop provides practical workspace and storage.
Every element of the design promotes comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. A reflection of Talon Construction’s design-build process, which focuses on blending form and function seamlessly.
Design-Build Expertise
From initial design concepts to final finishes, our design-build approach ensures that each project meets the homeowner’s needs and architectural goals. This sunroom addition not only enhances the property’s value but also enriches everyday living by bringing the outdoors inside.
Whether you envision a bright plant-filled retreat, a family gathering space, or a peaceful reading room, our team can tailor every detail to your lifestyle.
Contact Talon Construction Inc. today to schedule a consultation and start designing a space that expands your living area — beautifully and seamlessly.

At Talon Construction Inc., we specialize in creating custom home additions that feel like a natural extension of your home. This sunroom addition in Middletown, Maryland showcases our design-build expertise, combining architectural harmony, craftsmanship, and livable design to create a comfortable space filled with natural light.
Exterior View
The exterior of this sunroom blends effortlessly with the existing home. Matching horizontal siding, clean white trim, and a precisely aligned roofline maintain the home’s original charm while adding a fresh, modern touch.
Large, energy-efficient windows invite sunlight into the space, while the glass bay window adds architectural interest and extra dimension. The addition connects directly to the deck, extending the home’s outdoor living area and creating a smooth transition between inside and out.
Interior View
Inside, the sunroom is bright, cozy, and functional. Expansive windows and a transom above the door flood the room with natural light, making it an ideal space for plants, relaxation, or a casual breakfast nook.
The neutral wall tones and heated ceramic tile flooring create warmth and elegance, while custom cabinetry topped with a granite countertop provides practical workspace and storage.
Every element of the design promotes comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. A reflection of Talon Construction’s design-build process, which focuses on blending form and function seamlessly.
Design-Build Expertise
From initial design concepts to final finishes, our design-build approach ensures that each project meets the homeowner’s needs and architectural goals. This sunroom addition not only enhances the property’s value but also enriches everyday living by bringing the outdoors inside.
Whether you envision a bright plant-filled retreat, a family gathering space, or a peaceful reading room, our team can tailor every detail to your lifestyle.
Contact Talon Construction Inc. today to schedule a consultation and start designing a space that expands your living area — beautifully and seamlessly.

At Talon Construction Inc., we specialize in creating custom home additions that feel like a natural extension of your home. This sunroom addition in Middletown, Maryland showcases our design-build expertise, combining architectural harmony, craftsmanship, and livable design to create a comfortable space filled with natural light.
Exterior View
The exterior of this sunroom blends effortlessly with the existing home. Matching horizontal siding, clean white trim, and a precisely aligned roofline maintain the home’s original charm while adding a fresh, modern touch.
Large, energy-efficient windows invite sunlight into the space, while the glass bay window adds architectural interest and extra dimension. The addition connects directly to the deck, extending the home’s outdoor living area and creating a smooth transition between inside and out.
Interior View
Inside, the sunroom is bright, cozy, and functional. Expansive windows and a transom above the door flood the room with natural light, making it an ideal space for plants, relaxation, or a casual breakfast nook.
The neutral wall tones and heated ceramic tile flooring create warmth and elegance, while custom cabinetry topped with a granite countertop provides practical workspace and storage.
Every element of the design promotes comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. A reflection of Talon Construction’s design-build process, which focuses on blending form and function seamlessly.
Design-Build Expertise
From initial design concepts to final finishes, our design-build approach ensures that each project meets the homeowner’s needs and architectural goals. This sunroom addition not only enhances the property’s value but also enriches everyday living by bringing the outdoors inside.
Whether you envision a bright plant-filled retreat, a family gathering space, or a peaceful reading room, our team can tailor every detail to your lifestyle.
Contact Talon Construction Inc. today to schedule a consultation and start designing a space that expands your living area — beautifully and seamlessly.

At Talon Construction Inc., we specialize in creating custom home additions that feel like a natural extension of your home. This sunroom addition in Middletown, Maryland showcases our design-build expertise, combining architectural harmony, craftsmanship, and livable design to create a comfortable space filled with natural light.
Exterior View
The exterior of this sunroom blends effortlessly with the existing home. Matching horizontal siding, clean white trim, and a precisely aligned roofline maintain the home’s original charm while adding a fresh, modern touch.
Large, energy-efficient windows invite sunlight into the space, while the glass bay window adds architectural interest and extra dimension. The addition connects directly to the deck, extending the home’s outdoor living area and creating a smooth transition between inside and out.
Interior View
Inside, the sunroom is bright, cozy, and functional. Expansive windows and a transom above the door flood the room with natural light, making it an ideal space for plants, relaxation, or a casual breakfast nook.
The neutral wall tones and heated ceramic tile flooring create warmth and elegance, while custom cabinetry topped with a granite countertop provides practical workspace and storage.
Every element of the design promotes comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. A reflection of Talon Construction’s design-build process, which focuses on blending form and function seamlessly.
Design-Build Expertise
From initial design concepts to final finishes, our design-build approach ensures that each project meets the homeowner’s needs and architectural goals. This sunroom addition not only enhances the property’s value but also enriches everyday living by bringing the outdoors inside.
Whether you envision a bright plant-filled retreat, a family gathering space, or a peaceful reading room, our team can tailor every detail to your lifestyle.
Contact Talon Construction Inc. today to schedule a consultation and start designing a space that expands your living area — beautifully and seamlessly.

At Talon Construction Inc., we specialize in creating custom home additions that feel like a natural extension of your home. This sunroom addition in Middletown, Maryland showcases our design-build expertise, combining architectural harmony, craftsmanship, and livable design to create a comfortable space filled with natural light.
Exterior View
The exterior of this sunroom blends effortlessly with the existing home. Matching horizontal siding, clean white trim, and a precisely aligned roofline maintain the home’s original charm while adding a fresh, modern touch.
Large, energy-efficient windows invite sunlight into the space, while the glass bay window adds architectural interest and extra dimension. The addition connects directly to the deck, extending the home’s outdoor living area and creating a smooth transition between inside and out.
Interior View
Inside, the sunroom is bright, cozy, and functional. Expansive windows and a transom above the door flood the room with natural light, making it an ideal space for plants, relaxation, or a casual breakfast nook.
The neutral wall tones and heated ceramic tile flooring create warmth and elegance, while custom cabinetry topped with a granite countertop provides practical workspace and storage.
Every element of the design promotes comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. A reflection of Talon Construction’s design-build process, which focuses on blending form and function seamlessly.
Design-Build Expertise
From initial design concepts to final finishes, our design-build approach ensures that each project meets the homeowner’s needs and architectural goals. This sunroom addition not only enhances the property’s value but also enriches everyday living by bringing the outdoors inside.
Whether you envision a bright plant-filled retreat, a family gathering space, or a peaceful reading room, our team can tailor every detail to your lifestyle.
Contact Talon Construction Inc. today to schedule a consultation and start designing a space that expands your living area — beautifully and seamlessly.

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

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood.
INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site.
EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot.
THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place.
HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde.
YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements.
RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage.
OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet.
ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer
Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor
Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering
Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design
Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings
Eric Roth Photography - Photography

This 1930's Barrington Hills farmhouse was in need of some TLC when it was purchased by this southern family of five who planned to make it their new home. The renovation taken on by Advance Design Studio's designer Scott Christensen and master carpenter Justin Davis included a custom porch, custom built in cabinetry in the living room and children's bedrooms, 2 children's on-suite baths, a guest powder room, a fabulous new master bath with custom closet and makeup area, a new upstairs laundry room, a workout basement, a mud room, new flooring and custom wainscot stairs with planked walls and ceilings throughout the home.
The home's original mechanicals were in dire need of updating, so HVAC, plumbing and electrical were all replaced with newer materials and equipment. A dramatic change to the exterior took place with the addition of a quaint standing seam metal roofed farmhouse porch perfect for sipping lemonade on a lazy hot summer day.
In addition to the changes to the home, a guest house on the property underwent a major transformation as well. Newly outfitted with updated gas and electric, a new stacking washer/dryer space was created along with an updated bath complete with a glass enclosed shower, something the bath did not previously have. A beautiful kitchenette with ample cabinetry space, refrigeration and a sink was transformed as well to provide all the comforts of home for guests visiting at the classic cottage retreat.
The biggest design challenge was to keep in line with the charm the old home possessed, all the while giving the family all the convenience and efficiency of modern functioning amenities. One of the most interesting uses of material was the porcelain "wood-looking" tile used in all the baths and most of the home's common areas. All the efficiency of porcelain tile, with the nostalgic look and feel of worn and weathered hardwood floors. The home’s casual entry has an 8" rustic antique barn wood look porcelain tile in a rich brown to create a warm and welcoming first impression.
Painted distressed cabinetry in muted shades of gray/green was used in the powder room to bring out the rustic feel of the space which was accentuated with wood planked walls and ceilings. Fresh white painted shaker cabinetry was used throughout the rest of the rooms, accentuated by bright chrome fixtures and muted pastel tones to create a calm and relaxing feeling throughout the home.
Custom cabinetry was designed and built by Advance Design specifically for a large 70” TV in the living room, for each of the children’s bedroom’s built in storage, custom closets, and book shelves, and for a mudroom fit with custom niches for each family member by name.
The ample master bath was fitted with double vanity areas in white. A generous shower with a bench features classic white subway tiles and light blue/green glass accents, as well as a large free standing soaking tub nestled under a window with double sconces to dim while relaxing in a luxurious bath. A custom classic white bookcase for plush towels greets you as you enter the sanctuary bath.

This 1930's Barrington Hills farmhouse was in need of some TLC when it was purchased by this southern family of five who planned to make it their new home. The renovation taken on by Advance Design Studio's designer Scott Christensen and master carpenter Justin Davis included a custom porch, custom built in cabinetry in the living room and children's bedrooms, 2 children's on-suite baths, a guest powder room, a fabulous new master bath with custom closet and makeup area, a new upstairs laundry room, a workout basement, a mud room, new flooring and custom wainscot stairs with planked walls and ceilings throughout the home.
The home's original mechanicals were in dire need of updating, so HVAC, plumbing and electrical were all replaced with newer materials and equipment. A dramatic change to the exterior took place with the addition of a quaint standing seam metal roofed farmhouse porch perfect for sipping lemonade on a lazy hot summer day.
In addition to the changes to the home, a guest house on the property underwent a major transformation as well. Newly outfitted with updated gas and electric, a new stacking washer/dryer space was created along with an updated bath complete with a glass enclosed shower, something the bath did not previously have. A beautiful kitchenette with ample cabinetry space, refrigeration and a sink was transformed as well to provide all the comforts of home for guests visiting at the classic cottage retreat.
The biggest design challenge was to keep in line with the charm the old home possessed, all the while giving the family all the convenience and efficiency of modern functioning amenities. One of the most interesting uses of material was the porcelain "wood-looking" tile used in all the baths and most of the home's common areas. All the efficiency of porcelain tile, with the nostalgic look and feel of worn and weathered hardwood floors. The home’s casual entry has an 8" rustic antique barn wood look porcelain tile in a rich brown to create a warm and welcoming first impression.
Painted distressed cabinetry in muted shades of gray/green was used in the powder room to bring out the rustic feel of the space which was accentuated with wood planked walls and ceilings. Fresh white painted shaker cabinetry was used throughout the rest of the rooms, accentuated by bright chrome fixtures and muted pastel tones to create a calm and relaxing feeling throughout the home.
Custom cabinetry was designed and built by Advance Design specifically for a large 70” TV in the living room, for each of the children’s bedroom’s built in storage, custom closets, and book shelves, and for a mudroom fit with custom niches for each family member by name.
The ample master bath was fitted with double vanity areas in white. A generous shower with a bench features classic white subway tiles and light blue/green glass accents, as well as a large free standing soaking tub nestled under a window with double sconces to dim while relaxing in a luxurious bath. A custom classic white bookcase for plush towels greets you as you enter the sanctuary bath.
Joe Nowak

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Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
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This 1930's Barrington Hills farmhouse was in need of some TLC when it was purchased by this southern family of five who planned to make it their new home. The renovation taken on by Advance Design Studio's designer Scott Christensen and master carpenter Justin Davis included a custom porch, custom built in cabinetry in the living room and children's bedrooms, 2 children's on-suite baths, a guest powder room, a fabulous new master bath with custom closet and makeup area, a new upstairs laundry room, a workout basement, a mud room, new flooring and custom wainscot stairs with planked walls and ceilings throughout the home.
The home's original mechanicals were in dire need of updating, so HVAC, plumbing and electrical were all replaced with newer materials and equipment. A dramatic change to the exterior took place with the addition of a quaint standing seam metal roofed farmhouse porch perfect for sipping lemonade on a lazy hot summer day.
In addition to the changes to the home, a guest house on the property underwent a major transformation as well. Newly outfitted with updated gas and electric, a new stacking washer/dryer space was created along with an updated bath complete with a glass enclosed shower, something the bath did not previously have. A beautiful kitchenette with ample cabinetry space, refrigeration and a sink was transformed as well to provide all the comforts of home for guests visiting at the classic cottage retreat.
The biggest design challenge was to keep in line with the charm the old home possessed, all the while giving the family all the convenience and efficiency of modern functioning amenities. One of the most interesting uses of material was the porcelain "wood-looking" tile used in all the baths and most of the home's common areas. All the efficiency of porcelain tile, with the nostalgic look and feel of worn and weathered hardwood floors. The home’s casual entry has an 8" rustic antique barn wood look porcelain tile in a rich brown to create a warm and welcoming first impression.
Painted distressed cabinetry in muted shades of gray/green was used in the powder room to bring out the rustic feel of the space which was accentuated with wood planked walls and ceilings. Fresh white painted shaker cabinetry was used throughout the rest of the rooms, accentuated by bright chrome fixtures and muted pastel tones to create a calm and relaxing feeling throughout the home.
Custom cabinetry was designed and built by Advance Design specifically for a large 70” TV in the living room, for each of the children’s bedroom’s built in storage, custom closets, and book shelves, and for a mudroom fit with custom niches for each family member by name.
The ample master bath was fitted with double vanity areas in white. A generous shower with a bench features classic white subway tiles and light blue/green glass accents, as well as a large free standing soaking tub nestled under a window with double sconces to dim while relaxing in a luxurious bath. A custom classic white bookcase for plush towels greets you as you enter the sanctuary bath.

This 1930's Barrington Hills farmhouse was in need of some TLC when it was purchased by this southern family of five who planned to make it their new home. The renovation taken on by Advance Design Studio's designer Scott Christensen and master carpenter Justin Davis included a custom porch, custom built in cabinetry in the living room and children's bedrooms, 2 children's on-suite baths, a guest powder room, a fabulous new master bath with custom closet and makeup area, a new upstairs laundry room, a workout basement, a mud room, new flooring and custom wainscot stairs with planked walls and ceilings throughout the home.
The home's original mechanicals were in dire need of updating, so HVAC, plumbing and electrical were all replaced with newer materials and equipment. A dramatic change to the exterior took place with the addition of a quaint standing seam metal roofed farmhouse porch perfect for sipping lemonade on a lazy hot summer day.
In addition to the changes to the home, a guest house on the property underwent a major transformation as well. Newly outfitted with updated gas and electric, a new stacking washer/dryer space was created along with an updated bath complete with a glass enclosed shower, something the bath did not previously have. A beautiful kitchenette with ample cabinetry space, refrigeration and a sink was transformed as well to provide all the comforts of home for guests visiting at the classic cottage retreat.
The biggest design challenge was to keep in line with the charm the old home possessed, all the while giving the family all the convenience and efficiency of modern functioning amenities. One of the most interesting uses of material was the porcelain "wood-looking" tile used in all the baths and most of the home's common areas. All the efficiency of porcelain tile, with the nostalgic look and feel of worn and weathered hardwood floors. The home’s casual entry has an 8" rustic antique barn wood look porcelain tile in a rich brown to create a warm and welcoming first impression.
Painted distressed cabinetry in muted shades of gray/green was used in the powder room to bring out the rustic feel of the space which was accentuated with wood planked walls and ceilings. Fresh white painted shaker cabinetry was used throughout the rest of the rooms, accentuated by bright chrome fixtures and muted pastel tones to create a calm and relaxing feeling throughout the home.
Custom cabinetry was designed and built by Advance Design specifically for a large 70” TV in the living room, for each of the children’s bedroom’s built in storage, custom closets, and book shelves, and for a mudroom fit with custom niches for each family member by name.
The ample master bath was fitted with double vanity areas in white. A generous shower with a bench features classic white subway tiles and light blue/green glass accents, as well as a large free standing soaking tub nestled under a window with double sconces to dim while relaxing in a luxurious bath. A custom classic white bookcase for plush towels greets you as you enter the sanctuary bath.

511 Long Prairie Drive in Royse City, is the HBA home of the week, built by Robbie Hale Homes.
Robbie Hale has been building versatile custom designs for more than 40 years in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and nearly 20 years in Royse City. Royse City schools, and the proximity to Lake Ray Hubbard and Dallas make it one of the fastest-growing areas in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
This 1,910 air conditioned square-foot home features a stone-and-brick exterior, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car garage.
The home opens into the foyer accented by large offset ceramic tile. As you continue through the foyer, the home opens into the large family room with a corner stone fireplace. The kitchen is adjacent to the family room. The kitchen features granite counter tops accented with a lovely tile backsplash and continuous ceramic tile floors from the foyer to family room to kitchen. The kitchen also features beautiful cabinets, plenty of counter top space and a walk-in pantry. Crown molding is standard in all the formal areas.
The primary bathroom features granite composite counter tops, ceramic tile floors, ceramic tile shower walls/primary tub surround, a large vanity with two sinks, a jetted tub and a separate shower.
The exterior will include a covered patio, full sod, full sprinkler system, and a six foot privacy fence.
Amenities include a 16-SEER high efficiency air conditioner and a high efficiency gas furnace, R-15 wall insulation, R-38 ceiling insulation, radiant barrier roof decking, insulated LOW-E dual paned windows, natural gas accessibility, No HOA, and NO MUD/PID TAX.
The residence located at 511 Long Prairie Drive is priced at $251,900 and will be held open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday January 24th.
To visit the home, take I-30 east from Dallas/Mesquite and exit FM 548. Turn left at the stop sign and continue on FM 548 until you come to Highway 66. Take a right onto Highway 66 and continue for approximately 3 miles until you come to FM 1777 on your left. Turn left onto FM 1777 and continue for approximately 1 mile until you come to Prairie Meadow Drive on your right. Turn right onto Prairie Meadow Drive, then take a right onto Long Prairie Drive at the stop sign. 511 Long Prairie Drive will be on your right.
For additional information, contact Chase Gryziecki at 214-632-9347, email chase@robbiehalehomes.com or visit the website at www.robbiehalehomes.com.
This Home of the Week is presented by the Dallas Builders Association. For information on the Association please visit www.dallasbuilders.com.
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