A nice front bed for curb appeal that looks dramatic at night with well placed landscape lighting.
Design ideas for a large traditional drought-tolerant and rock front yard stone landscaping in Calgary.

What an awesome project!! Our client wanted us to design and build a complete custom backyard that had to match up with the existing rock on the house. They wanted warm natural cedar accents throughout as well that carried from the mantle on the massive outdoor fireplace over to the outdoor kitchen and privacy screens & gates. We finished with stainless steel cabinets, Dacor inset grill, 40" firebox, as well as fridge. Our client also wanted us to overlay rock onto the parging at the rear of the house to tie it all in. The project was capped off with natural rock accent boulders and an address rock as well as custom aluminum fencing and large trees for privacy. We added concrete edge and exposed aggregate patio to create an extremely cozy area for socializing and relaxing that has great curb appeal!!

LIST YOUR HOME FOR SALE TODAY IN METAIRIE AND NEW ORLEANS Please email us your information so we can start! Simple include your name, email and the address of the property. WE CAN HAVE IT LISTED TODAY !!! RyanRogers@kw.com Services Provided Real Estate Agent Areas Served Elmwood, Gretna, Harahan, Harvey, Jefferson, Kenner, Metairie, Metairie Terrace, New Orleans, River Ridge, Timberlane, Westwego, Woodmere, Imperial Woods,Algiers Point,Lake Vista,Lake-View,Lake Shore

A modern exterior renovation to this mid-century home. The siding was updated with new paint, stonework, and modern address detail.
Mid-sized mid-century modern brown two-story mixed siding house exterior idea

Some photos of the project once complete and grown in for 2 seasons. Looks darn amazing!!!
Photo of a large desert backyard gravel landscaping in Calgary.

Updated landscape to address lack of curb appeal in neighborhood. This landscape creates flow and interest throughout the property. A rock garden was installed in the back yard to address erosion and drainage issues at end of the back area.

All beds are contained for ease of maintenance. Accent boulders and landscape lighting throughout.
Photo of a large traditional side yard concrete paver flower bed in Calgary.

In this project, our clients purchased an existing restaurant fraught with stormwater management issues on the property. Runoff from an adjacent state highway and parking lot regularly flooded the kitchen. Additionally, a man-made pond on the property had become a problematic breeding ground for mosquitos that virtually prohibited outdoor dining during the summer. Both challenges restricted the restaurant from operating at its fullest potential. Our design/build team’s goals were to address the water runoff and mosquito issues using environmentally and financially sustainable practices. Lowering the grades around the building and parking, we were able to direct the runoff into a dry streambed enriched with water-worn cobbles and river stones and planted banks. We addressed the mosquito problem by increasing the pond’s depth, adding an aeration system, and planting the banks with wildflowers. By raising the outdoor dining, guests now overlook the pond and pleasing landscape. Natural breezes at this higher level help alleviate mosquitosl.

Trendy house exterior photo in Denver

The original ensuite bathroom in this condominium required renovations to replace problematic Kitec plumbing. The layout in the space remained the same, but improvements were made to address certain design challenges with lighting, automation, and space. The aim was to create a modern bathroom design with textured wood features, and the feel of metallic black accents. A number of prominent changes were made to improve the use of space. The original entry, a left-handed door swinging into the bathroom, was replaced. It interfered with the vanity clear floor space. It also made the use of the bathroom difficult when two users were present. It was changed to a soft closing pocket door. To avoid losing space it was installed by creating a wall cavity on the outside of the bathroom. This door also included frosted glass panels to allow natural light into the space. Double sliding glass shower doors were also installed to address access issues to the shower valve. Storage improvements included the installation of dual inset medicine cabinets, and pull out drawers within the wall hung vanity. The depth of the medicine cabinets were extended outwards, and this nice detail was finished with a textured wood finish. The addition of the wall hung vanity also created the feeling of more space beneath the units and allowed for under cabinet lighting. Lighting and automation improvements included the addition of HUE LED lighting. This was done by installing two shower pot lights, a 6” main potlight, and under cabinet lighting. These are all controlled by the Philips Hue App that programs routines, scenes, and other settings. Some of the other highlights of this modern bathroom include dark grout, which contrasts nicely with the elongated white tile, a thermostatic shower system, herringbone textured porcelain floor tile, and a Schluter Kerdi waterproofing shower system. This bathroom is made most unique though with the choice of wallpaper, which can be described as modern luxury, a graphic take on agate stone patterns with metallic embellishments.

Photo: David Tosti

Custom house number and gate made from repurposed iron and reclaimed lumber
Example of a tuscan entryway design in Los Angeles

The Setup For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners wanted to transform their large, T-shaped bathroom into a functional, multi-purpose sanctuary. The existing layout was inefficient, with a bulky built-in tub, a closed-off shower, and an awkward footprint that limited practical use. This remodel also presented a unique challenge – the homeowners wanted to use the space for workouts as well. The design needed to maximize the large open area in the middle of the T, providing enough room for yoga and light free-weight exercises while maintaining the bathroom’s aesthetic and functionality. Design objectives: Expand and brighten the shower area without major layout changes Replace the oversized built-in tub with a sleek freestanding alternative Create a flexible space for workouts while maintaining the bathroom’s design integrity Address cold flooring with added comfort solutions Enhance lighting for both beauty and functionality Incorporate storage for workout equipment and everyday essentials Integrate natural elements to accommodate the homeowners’ love of plants The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: Shower Expansion – The homeowners want a more open, spa-like shower but don’t want to dramatically alter the footprint. Workout Integration – Balancing fitness functionality with a serene bathroom design will require creative layout adjustments. Storage Solutions – With workout gear to stow away, the space needs discrete and versatile storage options. Lighting – Enhancing both natural and artificial lighting to brighten the large space. Cold Floors – Positioned above the garage, the bathroom tends to feel colder than the adjacent primary bedroom. A solution is needed to add warmth and comfort during use, without the need to reconfigure the home’s overall heating system. The Renewed Space Design solutions: Spa-Like Shower Expansion – Removing a wall and replacing it with glass transformed the shower into an open, airy retreat, allowing natural light to flow freely through the space. A curved black river rock floor and neutral linear wall tiles add warmth and texture, while carefully placed niche lighting enhances the tranquil, luxurious atmosphere. Workout-Friendly Layout – A custom full-length mirror was strategically placed to accommodate multiple uses, creating a fitness studio-like experience for yoga or light weight training. The mirror’s size and positioning allow for clear visibility during workouts, while also enhancing the room by adding light and a greater sense of depth. Custom Storage Solutions – A custom cabinet with a wood top was crafted to discreetly store workout equipment, preserving the clean, open feel of the space. Its design not only enhances functionality but also creates a sense of symmetry, bringing visual balance and cohesion to the overall layout. Enhanced Lighting – Replacing the shower wall with glass, installing a full-length mirror, and incorporating vanity mirrors with built-in lighting dramatically brighten the space. LED strip lighting under the cabinets, along the tub half wall, and in both the side and shower niches adds layered illumination, enhancing both function and ambiance. Heated Floors – Installing heated flooring provides consistent warmth and comfort year-round, enhancing the space for both workouts and daily routines. A European-style towel warmer brings additional warmth and a touch of luxury, elevating the overall experience. Final Thoughts: This transformed bathroom blends luxury with intentional design. By addressing the homeowners’ needs – from workout flexibility to spa-inspired details – the space now serves multiple purposes without compromise. The warm cabinetry, black accents and thoughtful lighting tie the design together, while the curved textures and plant-friendly ledge add a personalized touch. This bathroom is now a bright, welcoming sanctuary for daily routines and mindful moments.

Inspiration for a mid-sized rustic beige two-story mixed siding exterior home remodel in Phoenix

What an awesome project!! Our client wanted us to design and build a complete custom backyard that had to match up with the existing rock on the house. They wanted warm natural cedar accents throughout as well that carried from the mantle on the massive outdoor fireplace over to the outdoor kitchen and privacy screens & gates. We finished with stainless steel cabinets, Dacor inset grill, 40" firebox, as well as fridge. Our client also wanted us to overlay rock onto the parging at the rear of the house to tie it all in. The project was capped off with natural rock accent boulders and an address rock as well as custom aluminum fencing and large trees for privacy. We added concrete edge and exposed aggregate patio to create an extremely cozy area for socializing and relaxing that has great curb appeal!!

When faced with our client’s desire for a full-size pool and an outdoor space that provides luxury, relaxation, and privacy, D. A. Dunlevy had to first address a less-than-ideal existing property. A sloped area of the side yard that had been overlooked became the solution. The design team came up with a plan that offered maximum living space and seclusion. Using a series of stone retaining walls and an abundance of gorgeous plantings, we created a hidden paradise that combined a luxury resort with botanical gardens. The hot tub, waterfall, pool and landscaping come together to create a unique outdoor gem that will remain visually appealing year round.

The original ensuite bathroom in this condominium required renovations to replace problematic Kitec plumbing. The layout in the space remained the same, but improvements were made to address certain design challenges with lighting, automation, and space. The aim was to create a modern bathroom design with textured wood features, and the feel of metallic black accents. A number of prominent changes were made to improve the use of space. The original entry, a left-handed door swinging into the bathroom, was replaced. It interfered with the vanity clear floor space. It also made the use of the bathroom difficult when two users were present. It was changed to a soft closing pocket door. To avoid losing space it was installed by creating a wall cavity on the outside of the bathroom. This door also included frosted glass panels to allow natural light into the space. Double sliding glass shower doors were also installed to address access issues to the shower valve. Storage improvements included the installation of dual inset medicine cabinets, and pull out drawers within the wall hung vanity. The depth of the medicine cabinets were extended outwards, and this nice detail was finished with a textured wood finish. The addition of the wall hung vanity also created the feeling of more space beneath the units and allowed for under cabinet lighting. Lighting and automation improvements included the addition of HUE LED lighting. This was done by installing two shower pot lights, a 6” main potlight, and under cabinet lighting. These are all controlled by the Philips Hue App that programs routines, scenes, and other settings. Some of the other highlights of this modern bathroom include dark grout, which contrasts nicely with the elongated white tile, a thermostatic shower system, herringbone textured porcelain floor tile, and a Schluter Kerdi waterproofing shower system. This bathroom is made most unique though with the choice of wallpaper, which can be described as modern luxury, a graphic take on agate stone patterns with metallic embellishments.

AFTER Photo - Due to faulty workmanship of a previous contractor, D-Trac Construction was contracted to address the rock work issues pertaining to the fact that scratch coat was not applied prior to the rock work being installed. This resulted in the rock work falling off the front and back of the home. Parging around the perimeter of the home was also not completed, siding install had to be corrected in areas and a basement window was installed upside down. D-Trac Constriction addressed above issues on-time and on budget.

Front yard garden revamp! Introducing Corten edging along the walkway/driveway. The custom address sign is back lite with In-Lite outdoor lighting and is softened by the surrounding planting. Lush but easy to maintain plants fill the front yard with waves of colour and shades.