The homeowner of this traditional home requested a traditional pool and spa with a resort-like style and finishes. AquaTerra was able to create this wonderful outdoor environment with all they could have asked for. While the pool and spa may be simple on the surface, extensive planning went into this environment to incorporate the intricate deck pattern. During site layout and during construction, extreme attention to detail was required to make sure nothing compromised the precise deck layout. The pool is 42'x19' and includes a custom water feature wall, glass waterline tile and a fully tiled lounge with bubblers. The separate spa is fully glass tiled and is designed to be a water feature with custom spillways when not in use. LED lighting is used in both the pool and spa to create dramatic lighting that can be enjoyed at night. The pool/spa deck is made of 2'x2' travertine stones, four to a square, creating a 4'x4' grid that is rotated 45 degrees in relation to the pool. In between all of the stones is synthetic turf that ties into the synthetic turf putting green that is adjacent to the deck. Underneath all of this decking and turf is a concrete sub-deck to support and drain the entire system. Finishes and details that increase the aesthetic appeal for project include: -All glass tile spa and spa basin -Travertine deck -Tiled sun lounge with bubblers -Custom water feature wall -LED lighting -Synthetic turf This traditional pool and all the intricate details make it a perfect environment for the homeowners to live, relax and play! Photography: Daniel Driensky

Photography by Patrick Brickman
Mid-sized farmhouse master white tile and ceramic tile cement tile floor and gray floor freestanding bathtub photo in Charleston with white cabinets, white walls, an undermount sink and a hinged shower door

Our clients came to us wanting to update and open up their kitchen, breakfast nook, wet bar, and den. They wanted a cleaner look without clutter but didn’t want to go with an all-white kitchen, fearing it’s too trendy. Their kitchen was not utilized well and was not aesthetically appealing; it was very ornate and dark. The cooktop was too far back in the kitchen towards the butler’s pantry, making it awkward when cooking, so they knew they wanted that moved. The rest was left up to our designer to overcome these obstacles and give them their dream kitchen. We gutted the kitchen cabinets, including the built-in china cabinet and all finishes. The pony wall that once separated the kitchen from the den (and also housed the sink, dishwasher, and ice maker) was removed, and those appliances were relocated to the new large island, which had a ton of storage and a 15” overhang for bar seating. Beautiful aged brass Quebec 6-light pendants were hung above the island. All cabinets were replaced and drawers were designed to maximize storage. The Eclipse “Greensboro” cabinetry was painted gray with satin brass Emtek Mod Hex “Urban Modern” pulls. A large banquet seating area was added where the stand-alone kitchen table once sat. The main wall was covered with 20x20 white Golwoo tile. The backsplash in the kitchen and the banquette accent tile was a contemporary coordinating Tempesta Neve polished Wheaton mosaic marble. In the wet bar, they wanted to completely gut and replace everything! The overhang was useless and it was closed off with a large bar that they wanted to be opened up, so we leveled out the ceilings and filled in the original doorway into the bar in order for the flow into the kitchen and living room more natural. We gutted all cabinets, plumbing, appliances, light fixtures, and the pass-through pony wall. A beautiful backsplash was installed using Nova Hex Graphite ceramic mosaic 5x5 tile. A 15” overhang was added at the counter for bar seating. In the den, they hated the brick fireplace and wanted a less rustic look. The original mantel was very bulky and dark, whereas they preferred a more rectangular firebox opening, if possible. We removed the fireplace and surrounding hearth, brick, and trim, as well as the built-in cabinets. The new fireplace was flush with the wall and surrounded with Tempesta Neve Polished Marble 8x20 installed in a Herringbone pattern. The TV was hung above the fireplace and floating shelves were added to the surrounding walls for photographs and artwork. They wanted to completely gut and replace everything in the powder bath, so we started by adding blocking in the wall for the new floating cabinet and a white vessel sink. Black Boardwalk Charcoal Hex Porcelain mosaic 2x2 tile was used on the bathroom floor; coordinating with a contemporary “Cleopatra Silver Amalfi” black glass 2x4 mosaic wall tile. Two Schoolhouse Electric “Isaac” short arm brass sconces were added above the aged brass metal framed hexagon mirror. The countertops used in here, as well as the kitchen and bar, were Elements quartz “White Lightning.” We refinished all existing wood floors downstairs with hand scraped with the grain. Our clients absolutely love their new space with its ease of organization and functionality.

The new decorative eyebrow provides much more aesthetic appeal than the previous rectangular cut, and also goes well with the new granite counter tops, beveled subway tile backsplash, and white shaker-style cabinetry. Final photos by Impressia Photography.

This pool and spa is built in an affluent neighborhood with many new homes that are traditional in design but have modern, clean details. Similar to the homes, this pool takes a traditional pool and gives it a clean, modern twist. The site proved to be perfect for a long lap pool that the client desired with plenty of room for a separate spa. The two bodies of water, though separate, are visually linked together by a custom limestone raised water feature wall with 10 custom Bobe water scuppers. Quality workmanship as required throughout the entire build to ensure the automatic pool cover would remain square the entire 50 foot length of the pool. Features of this pool and environment that enhance the aesthetic appeal of this project include: -Glass waterline tile -Glass seat and bench tile -Glass tile swim lane marking on pool floor -Custom limestone coping and deck -PebbleTec pool finish -Synthetic Turf Lawn This outdoor environment cohesively brings the clean & modern finishes of the home seamlessly to the outdoors to a pool and spa for play, exercise and relaxation. Photography: Daniel Driensky

Retaining walls can serve many purposes! Personal Touch incorporated siloam steps into this homeowner's short stone retaining wall for better backyard access! Seasonal pansies and complementary evergreens add aesthetic appeal to this stone wall and step duo!

We added new open shelving to flank either side of the fireplace. The matching built-ins bring symmetry and visual harmony to the den. The new shelving is just as functional as it is aesthetically appealing. Cabinets and drawers beneath the open shelves hide away clutter and provide ample storage. Photography: Kate Zimmerman

The homeowner of this traditional home requested a traditional pool and spa with a resort-like style and finishes. AquaTerra was able to create this wonderful outdoor environment with all they could have asked for. While the pool and spa may be simple on the surface, extensive planning went into this environment to incorporate the intricate deck pattern. During site layout and during construction, extreme attention to detail was required to make sure nothing compromised the precise deck layout. The pool is 42'x19' and includes a custom water feature wall, glass waterline tile and a fully tiled lounge with bubblers. The separate spa is fully glass tiled and is designed to be a water feature with custom spillways when not in use. LED lighting is used in both the pool and spa to create dramatic lighting that can be enjoyed at night. The pool/spa deck is made of 2'x2' travertine stones, four to a square, creating a 4'x4' grid that is rotated 45 degrees in relation to the pool. In between all of the stones is synthetic turf that ties into the synthetic turf putting green that is adjacent to the deck. Underneath all of this decking and turf is a concrete sub-deck to support and drain the entire system. Finishes and details that increase the aesthetic appeal for project include: -All glass tile spa and spa basin -Travertine deck -Tiled sun lounge with bubblers -Custom water feature wall -LED lighting -Synthetic turf This traditional pool and all the intricate details make it a perfect environment for the homeowners to live, relax and play! Photography: Daniel Driensky

This pool and spa is built in an affluent neighborhood with many new homes that are traditional in design but have modern, clean details. Similar to the homes, this pool takes a traditional pool and gives it a clean, modern twist. The site proved to be perfect for a long lap pool that the client desired with plenty of room for a separate spa. The two bodies of water, though separate, are visually linked together by a custom limestone raised water feature wall with 10 custom Bobe water scuppers. Quality workmanship as required throughout the entire build to ensure the automatic pool cover would remain square the entire 50 foot length of the pool. Features of this pool and environment that enhance the aesthetic appeal of this project include: -Glass waterline tile -Glass seat and bench tile -Glass tile swim lane marking on pool floor -Custom limestone coping and deck -PebbleTec pool finish -Synthetic Turf Lawn This outdoor environment cohesively brings the clean & modern finishes of the home seamlessly to the outdoors to a pool and spa for play, exercise and relaxation. Photography: Daniel Driensky

As a Flagstaff custom home architect, our approach to every project is to balance innovative solutions with bold design aesthetics. The Micro Mini, a compact and modern accessory dwelling unit (ADU) nestled in the heart of Flagstaff, is the perfect example of how thoughtful design can solve space constraints while offering a stylish, functional, and delightful living environment. Our client came to us with a unique challenge: to create an additional living space on their property that was efficient, visually striking, and flexible in its function. They wanted to maximize a small footprint while incorporating pops of vibrant, monochrome color throughout the ADU to give it personality and make it feel like an extension of their larger home. The solution we provided, as your trusted Flagstaff custom home architect, was Micro Mini—a design that offers both efficiency and fun while making a big impact in a small space. The first challenge we tackled was how to make the most of the limited square footage. Our approach, rooted in the principles of modern architecture, was to keep the floor plan as open and flexible as possible. By eliminating unnecessary walls and creating multifunctional spaces, we were able to design an interior that feels spacious and airy, despite the small footprint. The living area, kitchen, and bedroom all flow seamlessly into each other, using strategic cabinetry, sliding doors, and built-in storage to keep the space uncluttered. The use of glass for windows and doors amplifies the sense of space, bringing in abundant natural light and connecting the interior to the outdoor landscape—a key consideration in any Flagstaff custom home architect project. One of the most striking elements of the Micro Mini is its creative use of color. The client wanted each space to feel distinct, while still maintaining a cohesive design language. To achieve this, we incorporated monochrome color schemes in various sections of the ADU, starting with the kitchen. The kitchen is a bold statement in shades of blue, with blue-stained cabinets, blue backsplash tile, and even blue fixtures. This color immersion gives the kitchen a distinctive identity while still blending harmoniously with the rest of the space. In other areas of the ADU, we played with pops of other fun colors—each carefully chosen to complement the modern aesthetic of the home while adding a personalized touch. As your Flagstaff custom home architect, we believe that color is an integral part of design, and Micro Mini is a testament to how thoughtful color application can elevate a space. The bold monochrome interiors are a fun, creative twist that make this ADU stand out while ensuring it remains functional and inviting. Beyond the bold use of color, the interior of Micro Mini is designed with simplicity and function in mind. We utilized clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and carefully selected materials to keep the overall look sleek and modern. Light wood floors contrast with the bold color accents and add warmth to the otherwise minimalistic design. Attention to detail is paramount in all of our projects, and as a Flagstaff custom home architect, we take pride in the craftsmanship and quality materials used throughout the Micro Mini. From the custom-built cabinetry to the thoughtfully designed storage solutions, every inch of the ADU was considered for both aesthetics and practicality. A key problem we solved for the client was how to make the ADU feel spacious and functional despite its small footprint. As your trusted Flagstaff custom home architect, we used a range of design solutions to achieve this. First, we incorporated high ceilings to enhance the sense of volume and space, creating an airy feel throughout the ADU. The placement of windows and the strategic use of sliding glass doors allow light to flood in, further opening up the interior and blurring the lines between inside and out. These elements not only make the ADU feel larger but also create a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Another key element was the use of built-in furniture and storage solutions to keep the space clutter-free. From hidden storage under the bed to custom cabinetry in the kitchen, every corner of the Micro Mini was designed with functionality in mind. This approach ensured that the ADU met the client’s needs for both comfort and practicality, while still adhering to the modern design aesthetic they desired. Being based in Northern Arizona, we are acutely aware of how important it is for our designs to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. As a Flagstaff custom home architect, we carefully consider the site’s natural beauty and how our projects can integrate with it. With Micro Mini, we focused on making sure that the ADU feels like a natural extension of the client’s existing property. The large windows and sliding glass doors bring in views of the surrounding landscape, while the outdoor deck extends the living space, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Whether you’re standing in the living room or on the deck, you are always connected to the beautiful Flagstaff setting. In line with our commitment to responsible design, sustainability was a key consideration for Micro Mini. As your Flagstaff custom home architect, we prioritize energy-efficient building methods and materials. The ADU was designed to be energy-efficient, with high-performance windows and insulation that keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Additionally, the color choices and materials used in the interior were chosen not just for their aesthetic appeal, but also for their durability and sustainability. Low-VOC paints and finishes were used throughout the ADU to ensure good indoor air quality, while the energy-efficient lighting and appliances help minimize the ADU’s overall environmental impact. At HEY! designs, we believe in a collaborative approach to architecture that puts the client’s needs and vision at the forefront. Whether designing a large custom home or a compact ADU like Micro Mini, we bring the same level of dedication, creativity, and attention to detail to every project. Our work is rooted in modern design principles but always infused with personality and a sense of fun. Micro Mini exemplifies this approach—a bold, colorful, and efficient ADU that meets the client’s needs while also reflecting their unique style. If you’re considering a custom home or ADU in Flagstaff, HEY! designs is here to help bring your vision to life. As a Flagstaff custom home architect, we specialize in creating spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also responsive to the unique qualities of the site and the needs of the client. Micro Mini is a testament to how small spaces can still be big on style and function. By incorporating bold color schemes, maximizing space efficiency, and maintaining a strong connection to the outdoors, this ADU achieves everything the client wanted—a modern, fun, and functional space. As your Flagstaff custom home architect, we would be thrilled to help you create a unique and personalized space that meets your needs, no matter the size or scope of your project. Contact us today to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life.

Our clients came to us wanting to update and open up their kitchen, breakfast nook, wet bar, and den. They wanted a cleaner look without clutter but didn’t want to go with an all-white kitchen, fearing it’s too trendy. Their kitchen was not utilized well and was not aesthetically appealing; it was very ornate and dark. The cooktop was too far back in the kitchen towards the butler’s pantry, making it awkward when cooking, so they knew they wanted that moved. The rest was left up to our designer to overcome these obstacles and give them their dream kitchen. We gutted the kitchen cabinets, including the built-in china cabinet and all finishes. The pony wall that once separated the kitchen from the den (and also housed the sink, dishwasher, and ice maker) was removed, and those appliances were relocated to the new large island, which had a ton of storage and a 15” overhang for bar seating. Beautiful aged brass Quebec 6-light pendants were hung above the island. All cabinets were replaced and drawers were designed to maximize storage. The Eclipse “Greensboro” cabinetry was painted gray with satin brass Emtek Mod Hex “Urban Modern” pulls. A large banquet seating area was added where the stand-alone kitchen table once sat. The main wall was covered with 20x20 white Golwoo tile. The backsplash in the kitchen and the banquette accent tile was a contemporary coordinating Tempesta Neve polished Wheaton mosaic marble. In the wet bar, they wanted to completely gut and replace everything! The overhang was useless and it was closed off with a large bar that they wanted to be opened up, so we leveled out the ceilings and filled in the original doorway into the bar in order for the flow into the kitchen and living room more natural. We gutted all cabinets, plumbing, appliances, light fixtures, and the pass-through pony wall. A beautiful backsplash was installed using Nova Hex Graphite ceramic mosaic 5x5 tile. A 15” overhang was added at the counter for bar seating. In the den, they hated the brick fireplace and wanted a less rustic look. The original mantel was very bulky and dark, whereas they preferred a more rectangular firebox opening, if possible. We removed the fireplace and surrounding hearth, brick, and trim, as well as the built-in cabinets. The new fireplace was flush with the wall and surrounded with Tempesta Neve Polished Marble 8x20 installed in a Herringbone pattern. The TV was hung above the fireplace and floating shelves were added to the surrounding walls for photographs and artwork. They wanted to completely gut and replace everything in the powder bath, so we started by adding blocking in the wall for the new floating cabinet and a white vessel sink. Black Boardwalk Charcoal Hex Porcelain mosaic 2x2 tile was used on the bathroom floor; coordinating with a contemporary “Cleopatra Silver Amalfi” black glass 2x4 mosaic wall tile. Two Schoolhouse Electric “Isaac” short arm brass sconces were added above the aged brass metal framed hexagon mirror. The countertops used in here, as well as the kitchen and bar, were Elements quartz “White Lightning.” We refinished all existing wood floors downstairs with hand scraped with the grain. Our clients absolutely love their new space with its ease of organization and functionality.

Example of a tuscan home theater design in Dallas

Photo Credit: Todd Douglas Design: Suzanne Winston and Associates
Example of a small 1960s master bathroom design in Other

This 4,500-square-foot Soho Loft, a conjoined space on two floors of a converted Manhattan warehouse, was renovated and fitted with our custom cabinetry—making it a special project for us. We designed warm and sleek wood cabinetry and casework—lining the perimeter and opening up the rooms, allowing light and movement to flow freely deep into the space. The use of a translucent wall system and carefully designed lighting were key, highlighting the casework and accentuating its clean lines. Photo by doublespace photography

Example of a beach style master bedroom design in New York with gray walls and no fireplace

Our clients came to us wanting to update and open up their kitchen, breakfast nook, wet bar, and den. They wanted a cleaner look without clutter but didn’t want to go with an all-white kitchen, fearing it’s too trendy. Their kitchen was not utilized well and was not aesthetically appealing; it was very ornate and dark. The cooktop was too far back in the kitchen towards the butler’s pantry, making it awkward when cooking, so they knew they wanted that moved. The rest was left up to our designer to overcome these obstacles and give them their dream kitchen. We gutted the kitchen cabinets, including the built-in china cabinet and all finishes. The pony wall that once separated the kitchen from the den (and also housed the sink, dishwasher, and ice maker) was removed, and those appliances were relocated to the new large island, which had a ton of storage and a 15” overhang for bar seating. Beautiful aged brass Quebec 6-light pendants were hung above the island. All cabinets were replaced and drawers were designed to maximize storage. The Eclipse “Greensboro” cabinetry was painted gray with satin brass Emtek Mod Hex “Urban Modern” pulls. A large banquet seating area was added where the stand-alone kitchen table once sat. The main wall was covered with 20x20 white Golwoo tile. The backsplash in the kitchen and the banquette accent tile was a contemporary coordinating Tempesta Neve polished Wheaton mosaic marble. In the wet bar, they wanted to completely gut and replace everything! The overhang was useless and it was closed off with a large bar that they wanted to be opened up, so we leveled out the ceilings and filled in the original doorway into the bar in order for the flow into the kitchen and living room more natural. We gutted all cabinets, plumbing, appliances, light fixtures, and the pass-through pony wall. A beautiful backsplash was installed using Nova Hex Graphite ceramic mosaic 5x5 tile. A 15” overhang was added at the counter for bar seating. In the den, they hated the brick fireplace and wanted a less rustic look. The original mantel was very bulky and dark, whereas they preferred a more rectangular firebox opening, if possible. We removed the fireplace and surrounding hearth, brick, and trim, as well as the built-in cabinets. The new fireplace was flush with the wall and surrounded with Tempesta Neve Polished Marble 8x20 installed in a Herringbone pattern. The TV was hung above the fireplace and floating shelves were added to the surrounding walls for photographs and artwork. They wanted to completely gut and replace everything in the powder bath, so we started by adding blocking in the wall for the new floating cabinet and a white vessel sink. Black Boardwalk Charcoal Hex Porcelain mosaic 2x2 tile was used on the bathroom floor; coordinating with a contemporary “Cleopatra Silver Amalfi” black glass 2x4 mosaic wall tile. Two Schoolhouse Electric “Isaac” short arm brass sconces were added above the aged brass metal framed hexagon mirror. The countertops used in here, as well as the kitchen and bar, were Elements quartz “White Lightning.” We refinished all existing wood floors downstairs with hand scraped with the grain. Our clients absolutely love their new space with its ease of organization and functionality.

A bold statement and a warm welcome — that’s the tone our client set for this Guest Bathroom Renovation In Bucktown. The blue labyrinth vanity wallpaper introduces a striking element to the room, boasting bold geometric patterns that elevates the overall design. Secret Silver tiles grace the shower wall, niche, and floor, creating a sophisticated atmosphere with its marble effect and contrasting tones. The gray-painted wall and white ceiling tie everything together to create the perfect balance without overwhelming the space. The space is enhanced with the decorative accent of Newbury Glass Penny Mosaic in the shower floor, giving the bathroom an additional creative expression through its distinctive shape and color. The Shadowbox mirror from Shades of Light features a sleek matte black finish, providing depth in the border for both aesthetic appeal and function. The Industrial Triangle Shade Three Light lights up the vanity, embodying industrial minimalism, making the room burst with light and style. This guest bathroom brought our client's vision to life – a modern and inviting space that is functional at the same time. Project designed by Chi Renovation & Design, a renowned renovation firm based in Skokie. We specialize in general contracting, kitchen and bath remodeling, and design & build services. We cater to the entire Chicago area and its surrounding suburbs, with emphasis on the North Side and North Shore regions. You'll find our work from the Loop through Lincoln Park, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, and all the way up to Lake Forest. For more info about Chi Renovation & Design, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/

This corner lot has a custom sound-resistant fence of 1 1/4" thick tongue-and-groove cedar, flanked by a hedge of densely planted cedars which lend privacy and quiet. The pool's sheer descent waterfall is visible from anywhere in the yard plus the kitchen and family room. The raised portion of the pool wall conveniently seats up to 25. (14 x 28, rectangular)

The main objective for this project was to create a beautiful outdoor cooking and entertaining space. The clients wanted the new space to have an open concept while being protected from the elements year round. Stylistically they wanted the design to have a Pacific Northwest feel, to blend with the existing house and work well among their natural, forested backyard. We needed to include a BBQ, smoker, sink, refrigerator, gas fireplace and wall mounted heater as well as a large screen TV. The details were going to be a main focus for the design process, as we knew this would ensure the cohesive blend of function and aesthetic appeal. One of the main challenges was working with the existing deck. The 1000 SF deck needed new decking and guardrails as well as some framing repair. We were worried that the existing deck structure would not support the weight of the new construction. Another challenge we faced was designing the roof planes to aesthetically blend with the existing house. The layout of the first and second floor had us working through multiple design revisions until we landed on the final stepped roof structure. We designed the new roof to be supported by the house and columns set directly on the ground, thereby minimizing weight added to the existing deck. This allowed us to use the deck to support the lighter components, including the kitchen and BBQ area. Oversized beams, exposed raw wood rafters, and sealed car decking worked well with the new cedar deck surface. Stainless steel cabinetry and appliances are accented by solid surface countertops and small mosaic backsplash. All colors were selected to fall within the natural hues of the seasonally changing foliage surrounding the clients’ property. Maintaining the same footprint of the existing deck, we used the angles to our advantage and created additional seating with a custom built storage bench. New powder coated posts and cable guardrails were topped with an LED lined wood handrail. A decorative chandelier and subtle metal pendants provide ambient light. An electric heater mounted to the inside of one of the beams as well as the gas fireplace provides ample heat for colder months. The clerestory windows between the two roof planes provide additional light to the space while protecting against the elements. The gas fireplace and cultured stone wrapped chimney is a visual anchor and centerpiece for the deck. The chimney provided an opportunity to hide one of the supporting columns as well as a protected space for the wall mounted TV and soundbar. The cabinetry layout was selected to offer plenty of storage and special features including a pull out garbage and recycling center, drawers for dishes and utensils, and a concealed paper towel holder.