Large trendy backyard stone and custom-shaped infinity pool fountain photo in San Francisco

Bathroom cabinets: Sherwin Williams 'Persimmon' Silestone Blanco City Circa Lighting 'Go Lightly' sconce 2" travertine hex tile Hardware by Nameeks Geesa / Emtek Leonid Furmansky Photography

Exterior, brick, lime, limewash, painted brick, architectural finish

Discover the ultimate retreat in Lake Almanor’s Peninsula Country Club, where modern comfort meets rustic charm. This cozy 3-bedroom, 5-bed cabin with a charming loft is designed for relaxation and adventure alike. Enjoy high-speed internet, air conditioning, a high-definition TV, and a cozy wood stove. Step outside to spacious porches, a private forest backdrop with no rear neighbors, and a BBQ grill for outdoor dining. Whether you’re here for boating, fishing, golfing, or simply unwinding, this is the perfect getaway for families, couples, and groups. ? Exclusive Gated Community & Prime Location Nestled inside a secure, gated community, this vacation home grants access to private beaches, boat launches, golf courses, parks, and more. Walk or take a short drive to the clubhouse, bar, restaurants, and other amenities available within the country club (please note: a nightly access fee applies). ? Ask us about special discounts! ⭐ Living & Entertainment ✔ Spacious Open-Concept Living Room – Comfortable seating, a large TV, and a pool table for fun-filled gatherings✔ Loft & Second Living Area – Additional seating, a second TV, and a dedicated workspace for remote work✔ Ultra-Fast WiFi – Stream on multiple TVs or work seamlessly in a peaceful setting ?️ Kitchen & Dining ✔ Fully Equipped Kitchen – Large island, microwave, dual sinks, oven, electric stovetop, cookware & dinnerware✔ Dining Area – A spacious table perfect for shared meals and quality time ?️ Bedroom Setup & Sleeping Arrangements ✔ Master Bedroom – California king bed, TV, full en-suite bathroom with rain shower, and walk-in closet✔ Second Bedroom – Full-sized bunk beds, perfect for kids or extra guests✔ Third Bedroom – Luxurious California king bed plus an optional queen bed✔ Additional Sleeping Options – An air mattress is available upon request, and the loft can double as an extra bedroom ⭐ Premium Amenities ✔ High-Speed Internet & Smart TVs – Stay connected or enjoy a movie night✔ Central Air Conditioning & Heating – Year-round comfort✔ Wood Stove – Cozy up on chilly nights✔ Outdoor Grill – BBQ on the porch with scenic forest views ? Outdoor Space & Activities ✔ Expansive Porches – Relax with a morning coffee or evening drink in a peaceful setting✔ Secluded Forest Views – No rear neighbors, offering ultimate privacy and tranquility✔ Close to Lake Almanor – Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking just minutes away ? Hassle-Free Parking ✔ Spacious Driveway – Plenty of room for multiple vehicles ?️ Your Ideal Lake Almanor Getaway This stunning cabin blends modern luxury with rustic charm, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re here for an outdoor adventure, a relaxing weekend, or a family vacation, this home is designed for unforgettable experiences. ? Availability is limited—book your Lake Almanor escape today here! https://primaluxeproperty.holidayfuture.com/listings/308166

Discover the ultimate retreat in Lake Almanor’s Peninsula Country Club, where modern comfort meets rustic charm. This cozy 3-bedroom, 5-bed cabin with a charming loft is designed for relaxation and adventure alike. Enjoy high-speed internet, air conditioning, a high-definition TV, and a cozy wood stove. Step outside to spacious porches, a private forest backdrop with no rear neighbors, and a BBQ grill for outdoor dining. Whether you’re here for boating, fishing, golfing, or simply unwinding, this is the perfect getaway for families, couples, and groups. ? Exclusive Gated Community & Prime Location Nestled inside a secure, gated community, this vacation home grants access to private beaches, boat launches, golf courses, parks, and more. Walk or take a short drive to the clubhouse, bar, restaurants, and other amenities available within the country club (please note: a nightly access fee applies). ? Ask us about special discounts! ⭐ Living & Entertainment ✔ Spacious Open-Concept Living Room – Comfortable seating, a large TV, and a pool table for fun-filled gatherings✔ Loft & Second Living Area – Additional seating, a second TV, and a dedicated workspace for remote work✔ Ultra-Fast WiFi – Stream on multiple TVs or work seamlessly in a peaceful setting ?️ Kitchen & Dining ✔ Fully Equipped Kitchen – Large island, microwave, dual sinks, oven, electric stovetop, cookware & dinnerware✔ Dining Area – A spacious table perfect for shared meals and quality time ?️ Bedroom Setup & Sleeping Arrangements ✔ Master Bedroom – California king bed, TV, full en-suite bathroom with rain shower, and walk-in closet✔ Second Bedroom – Full-sized bunk beds, perfect for kids or extra guests✔ Third Bedroom – Luxurious California king bed plus an optional queen bed✔ Additional Sleeping Options – An air mattress is available upon request, and the loft can double as an extra bedroom ⭐ Premium Amenities ✔ High-Speed Internet & Smart TVs – Stay connected or enjoy a movie night✔ Central Air Conditioning & Heating – Year-round comfort✔ Wood Stove – Cozy up on chilly nights✔ Outdoor Grill – BBQ on the porch with scenic forest views ? Outdoor Space & Activities ✔ Expansive Porches – Relax with a morning coffee or evening drink in a peaceful setting✔ Secluded Forest Views – No rear neighbors, offering ultimate privacy and tranquility✔ Close to Lake Almanor – Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking just minutes away ? Hassle-Free Parking ✔ Spacious Driveway – Plenty of room for multiple vehicles ?️ Your Ideal Lake Almanor Getaway This stunning cabin blends modern luxury with rustic charm, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re here for an outdoor adventure, a relaxing weekend, or a family vacation, this home is designed for unforgettable experiences. ? Availability is limited—book your Lake Almanor escape today here! https://primaluxeproperty.holidayfuture.com/listings/308166

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Photography: Eric Roth Photo

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values.

Photo By: Darrell Taylor
Photo of a mid-sized rustic shade side yard garden path in Charlotte.

Travel is more than just the act of going from one place to another; it’s an exploration of new perspectives, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, the journey holds the power to change you in unexpected ways. Exoticca Helps a lot to Travel. 1. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination Too often, we focus on reaching the destination, ticking off items on our travel bucket list. But some of the most memorable moments in travel happen when we slow down and engage with the world around us. Take time to walk through a bustling market, share a meal with a local family, or simply sit on a beach at sunset. These moments allow us to experience the true essence of a place beyond its landmarks. 2. Travel with Purpose In today’s fast-paced world, many travelers are seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences. Whether it’s volunteering in a foreign country, participating in eco-tourism, or learning a new skill, travel can be a gateway to personal growth. Traveling with purpose adds value to your journey and ensures that it impacts not only you but the places you visit. Volunteering in a community, helping preserve nature, or supporting local artisans can leave you with a sense of accomplishment and connection to the world. 3. The Magic of Cultural Immersion One of the best ways to travel is to truly immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting. Skip the tourist traps and spend time in local neighborhoods. Try the street food, learn a few words in the local language, and embrace local traditions. The more you engage with the culture, the richer your experience will be. This immersion leads to a greater understanding and respect for different ways of life, fostering deeper connections between people across the globe. 4. Sustainable Travel: A Responsibility for the Future As travelers, we must recognize the impact our journeys can have on the environment. Sustainable travel practices are becoming more essential than ever before. From reducing plastic usage to supporting eco-friendly accommodations, there are many ways to ensure that our travels leave a positive legacy. Before your trip, research sustainable activities, respect wildlife, and consider how your visit affects local ecosystems. This mindset not only protects the planet but enhances your overall travel experience by aligning it with a purpose. 5. Travel Challenges: Growth Through Adversity It’s not always smooth sailing. Missed flights, language barriers, unexpected weather, or cultural misunderstandings can make travel seem daunting. However, these challenges can also offer some of the most rewarding experiences. Overcoming adversity while traveling encourages adaptability, patience, and resilience. These moments allow you to connect more deeply with yourself and the world, turning what could be a frustrating experience into an unforgettable lesson in growth. 6. Rediscovering Yourself Through Travel The act of leaving behind your daily routine and exploring new places often leads to self-reflection. Away from the distractions of everyday life, you have space to reconnect with yourself. Whether it’s finding peace in nature, discovering a new passion, or challenging your comfort zone, travel is a powerful tool for self-discovery. Many travelers report feeling more energized, inspired, and aware of their true desires after a meaningful journey. 7. Tips for a Seamless Travel Experience To make the most of your travels, planning is key. Here are a few tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey: Research your destination: Learn about the local culture, customs, and etiquette to show respect and avoid misunderstandings. Pack smart: Pack light and include only essentials to keep your travels stress-free. A good travel bag and comfortable shoes are a must! Stay flexible: Sometimes, plans go awry. Stay adaptable and be open to spontaneous adventures. Engage with locals: The best recommendations often come from those who live in the area. Don't be afraid to ask for tips or hidden gems. Capture memories: While it’s important to live in the moment, capturing photos or journaling your experiences can help you relive your journey long after it ends. 8. The Future of Travel: Trends to Watch As we look to the future, the way we travel is evolving. Virtual reality and AI are changing the way we plan and experience destinations, allowing for more personalized and immersive adventures. Moreover, the rise of wellness travel is focusing on mental and physical health, with more travelers seeking destinations that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. Regardless of how travel continues to evolve, the spirit of discovery and connection will always remain at the heart of every journey. Conclusion: Traveling for a Better World Travel is a transformative experience that connects us to the world, broadens our understanding, and enriches our lives. By approaching travel with an open mind, a sense of responsibility, and a desire for authentic experiences, we not only enhance our journeys but contribute to the global community. As you pack your bags for your next adventure, remember that every step you take is an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a more interconnected world.

Corynne Pless Photography © 2015 Houzz
Example of an eclectic exterior home design in Los Angeles

Example of a farmhouse staircase design in San Francisco

Once upon a time, in a cozy family home, the living room was a sanctuary for the entire clan. The space was beautifully adorned with dark brown wood flooring that exuded warmth and elegance. Overhead, ceiling fans with wooden blades silently whirred, casting gentle breezes that kept the room comfortable year-round. On one side of the room, a glass cabinet proudly displayed an array of cherished items. The cabinet was a testament to the family's passion for collecting, filled with vintage toys, delicate porcelain figurines, and an assortment of Jon Cancellino's exquisite glass sculptures. The soft glow of ceiling lights highlighted these precious treasures, making them all the more captivating. In the center of the room, a white leather sofa invited relaxation. Plush pillows adorned its surface, inviting anyone to sink in and unwind. It was a favorite spot for the kids, who often nestled on the sofa, surrounded by their beloved toys. A few steps away, a sleek leather sofa in dark brown awaited the adults. It offered a perfect view of the TV, which was mounted on the white wall. The family often gathered here for movie nights, their laughter filling the room as they enjoyed their favorite films. Adjacent to the entertainment setup, a wall frame collage displayed memories of their adventures. The wall picture frame collage was a testament to the family's journey, featuring photos from vacations, milestones, and celebrations. Each image was encased in an elegant acrylic photo frame that preserved these moments for generations to come. Near the collage, a sink and tap combo were the practical touch the room needed. It was essential for the kids' quick snack breaks and for the adults to prepare their favorite beverages. The window blinds allowed just the right amount of natural light to filter through, creating a cozy ambiance. The room was a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality, a true reflection of the family's unique personality and their shared memories in their lovely home.

Garden Design Inc.
Photo of an asian landscaping in Philadelphia.

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Eric Roth Photo

Landscape & Pool Design: Root Design Company Photo credits: Jessica Carr
Design ideas for a mediterranean landscaping in Austin.

25' Pondless waterfall stream
Inspiration for a large traditional partial sun backyard stone water fountain landscape in Sacramento.

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Eric Roth Photo

When it comes to finding inspiration for your house or apartment design, there are a variety of routes you can take. For some, it is important to dive into the latest trends in fashion and art, using only the most popular decor pieces and embracing the color palettes seen on runways or in home and garden magazines. But for others, it’s simply about discovering what feels most like “home.” Ashley Steele, the creator of A Styled Affair, was part of the latter group. “Since my husband and I were moving into a space that was previously owned, I needed a way to make it feel like it was truly ours, and unique to us,” she told our team. A Styled Affair sprang from Ashley’s passion for fashion, and need for a creative outlet. But it soon became more than that. She developed a following, and it quickly became a place where she could share her personal style, travel adventures, and lifestyle tips. “While the blogging industry has become overwhelmed with people sharing their favorite home decor or make-up tips, I think what sets A Styled Affair apart is my commitment to stay true to my unique taste. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum – and that carries through in the clothes I wear, the decor I select for our home, and the travels I plan.” Paintzen connected with Ashley as she was settling into her new home in Boston’s Seaport District. Although she and her husband have lived in Boston for almost 8 years, they were used to smaller, more traditional spaces. Their new home is much bigger, and more modern, than any place they lived before. “I wanted to select colors of comfort, simplicity, and sophistication so we could elevate the space and make it feel more like a home.” Ashley also accurately pointed out that new construction can sometimes feel a little cold and sterile, almost industrial. “I wanted our home to feel like a peaceful oasis after coming in from the bustling city.” Ashley chose soft white paint for her walls to bring a sense of comfort and zen. With lots of wall decor, art work and carefully selected furniture, the walls serve as a clean and comfortable palette, and allowed her more freedom when making her other design decisions throughout the space. Ashley kept the overall palette fairly neutral, and incorporated “modern bohemian” inspired decor throughout the home; the final product was clean and simple, and catered to her style. We asked Ashley what she was most excited for now. “I’m most excited to continue to find new decor pieces to compliment the paint colors and decor we’ve already found for the space. We have been really patient with decorating and selected each piece really careful to make sure it is cohesive and flows from room to room. I’m looking forward to enjoying the space with my husband and dog, and entertaining friends and family in the spring and summer!” A few final questions for Ashley on her experience with Paintzen: “I would highly recommend Paintzen to anyone, especially those that live in the city. There are so many different paint companies and contractors to choose from but going through Paintzen simplified the process and made me feel comfortable that we had the right team working on our space. Their platform for booking services and choosing paint colors made the process seamless and was a great way to keep track of what we booked and chose for colors. Most importantly, the customer service team was outstanding whenever we had a question or needed to make an adjustment.” And advice she would give someone repainting their home: “Patience. I would recommend taking your time and doing your research before selecting paint colors. Lighting changes every color so make sure to bring paint swatches and samples into the space and look at it throughout the day to see the different tones that the light will pick up. I would also recommend researching color trends and recommendations for colors in the family you are looking for. We found our living room color through a blog post listing top-used colors by interior designers and it looks amazing.”