These Queen Anne homeowners had completely remodeled their home and were looking for a low maintenance, enjoyable yard that would accentuate their views and provide outdoor space for their dogs. Another important goal was to attract birds and pollinators to the garden, in part for photographic opportunities. A series of Corten planters create planting space along the back property line while leaving plenty of room for artificial turf that the family dogs can enjoy. A recirculating urn water feature creates a pleasant sound, a focal point and most importantly, attracts birds to the garden. Privacy screens designed using OutDeco panels create interest on both sides and focus views to the mountains in the background. Front and backyards were completely redesigned for ease of maintenance.

This landscape design showcases a harmonious integration of natural rock formations and a variety of plant life to create a serene and inviting garden space. The focal point is a flowing water feature that meanders through the arrangement, with carefully placed rocks and boulders that mimic a natural stream. Above, the vibrant sky peeks through lush, towering greenery, adding a dynamic background. The garden beds are densely planted with a mix of textures and colors, including purple flowering ground cover, striking yucca plants with their sword-like leaves, and cascading greenery of a weeping conifer. The pathways are neatly outlined with lighter stones, contrasting with the darker mulch and rich green lawn. This inviting outdoor area seems perfect for relaxation and contemplation, enhanced by the soothing sounds of the water feature and the secluded, private feel offered by the tall plants and trees. The overall effect is one of a meticulously designed landscape that combines elements of a rock garden, water garden, and an ornamental garden with a diverse palette of plants.

This Greenwich, Connecticut design studio offers distinguishing clientele the best in art and design items including elegantly framed Séura TV Mirrors. Putnam & Mason is a multi-tier design atelier with a sophisticated contemporary yet classic vibe. The shop is set up as a large studio/loft space fully furnished, accessorized and layered with a mix of contemporary goods juxtaposed with classical antiques. The overall concept is to have all clients that enter the spaces feel as though they've been transcended to a sophisticated home which is all sensory; mood lighting, a personalized and romanced aroma, beautiful suites of home furnishings and accessories in which they can envision themselves living and a background of incredibly motivating sound/music. A tall custom Séura TV Mirror reflects the luxe environment above the fireplace, completely hiding the television hidden within the glass. The hand crafted frame by Klasp Home is also available in bespoke leather and cowhide hair frames. Visit Putnam & Mason https://www.putnammason.com/

Banker Wire’s architectural woven mesh is a key design element in the Willow Park Showhome, built by Zen Custom Homes and designed by AstonMorrone Designs. Utilized in two separate applications within the home—as a wall divider in the office, and as a statement kitchen island feature—the designer relied on Banker Wire’s M22-83 wire mesh pattern to create visual separations that allow the light to pass through, without impeding the flow of the open-planned space. Acting as a statement kitchen counter partition, M22-83’s stainless steel and brass finish brings warmth to the expansive, open kitchen. Fabricated within a red maple-colored wood frame, the wire mesh creates a dividing screen by connecting the bottom of the kitchen counter with the wood ceiling accent above, which spans the length and width of the counter. When lit by the kitchen ceiling lighting source, M22-83 is brought to life; created using a pair of nested helical crimped woven wires to define the circular mesh shape, this pattern’s doubled circle mesh creates unique reflective surfaces, allowing the light to pass through the mesh in varying ways. Similarly, this combination of stainless steel and brass gives off a colorful, luxurious aesthetic, where the depth and movement of the contrasting woven wires—of silver and gold tones—dynamically change as the viewer’s perspective shifts. In addition to creating a striking, statement background for the lights to reflect off of, this wood-mesh divider installation directs the line of sight towards the outside view of the home’s backyard. The double woven nature of the M22-83 pattern gives strength to this weave, making it a suitable option for a screen wall or space divider. The wire mesh application within this showhome office space acts as a partition that visually divides the front foyer while doubling as the back of a shelving wall. With the goal of creating a space that can be used as a flex-room or a working studio, the design team prioritized having natural light and a connection to the rest of the home. The Banker Wire mesh allows the sound and light to pass from the peripheral spaces through the length of the office space, with the trees in the transom windows located in the front foyer visible from behind the wire mesh divider wall. Additionally, the stainless steel and brass finish mirrors the wood millwork accents within the space, further adding to the masculine aesthetic of the design scheme while providing contrasting texture.

When homeowners Garry and Sherry bought their 1799 farmhouse in Lancaster, they prepared themselves for many years of renovation: 28 years, to be exact. They gradually tackled inside projects like the master bath, basement, a recent kitchen remodel and even an office-turned-Irish pub. During one painfully hot summer, they installed a pool that became their go-to for summer entertainment and parties. Now, Garry and Sherry’s four children have grown and the couple has found free time in not devoting their days to hockey, volleyball and softball games. So several years ago, they decided to take on the outdoor space. The couple contacted Bobby Kenyon and Adrian Kapp of C.E. Pontz (www.cepontzsons.com) to create a design that would blend with the rustic look of their farmhouse. They hoped to increase the amount of entertaining space by enlarging the patio area and adding a pavilion and outdoor kitchen. Another must-have was a covered area that could ensure the party would not end even if the weather would not cooperate. After brainstorming with Bobby and Adrian, they decided to include a gas fireplace, an outdoor television in the pavilion, and a Kegerator in the kitchen. For the outdoor overhaul, C.E. Pontz began by adding two separate patios of flagstone and natural stone that combine to a total area of 1,100 square feet. They laid large stone slabs to create a walkway connecting the kitchen and living area. For sunny days, C.E. Pontz installed an outdoor kitchen complete with granite countertops, sink, gas burner, grill and storage area. A pergola above the grill offers shade to whomever is tending the tongs that night. Sherry said that having an outdoor kitchen has made entertaining a time for sharing and enjoying food rather than preparing and serving it. When their indoor kitchen was being remodeled last summer, the family prepared nearly all of their meals outdoors, from eggs at breakfast to pasta at dinner. And they still love the summer staple of anything with grill marks. Because the perfect addition to charred meats and veggies is usually a cold draft, C.E. Pontz completed the kitchen with a Kegerator, placed conveniently in arm’s reach of the guest seating. Across the walkway and above the adjoining stone patio, C.E. Pontz built a 16- by 20-foot pavilion, or, essentially, a living room under the trees. A fan hanging from the vaulted ceiling keeps guests cool while they lounge in plush wicker chairs, watching television. Sherry and Garry furnished the space with dark wicker seating from Wicker Imports in Lancaster (www.wickerimportsonline.com). They added pillows and cushions in earth-toned patterns for extra comfort and color. To keep the space alive after the sun sets, they decorated with lots of candles as well as copper lighting that Garry, having an electrical background, installed himself. Plus, C.E. Pontz constructed a gas-fed stone fireplace just outside the pavilion that illuminates the living area and provides a cozy warmth in colder months. Garry, who has a green thumb according to his wife, sets out 18 to 20 large planters around the pool and patio in the summer. These complement the roses, nandina and various grasses that C.E. Pontz used to landscape around the patios. In spring, the couple works to beautify the beds so that in summer, they simply need to water the plants and enjoy the flora. “It is truly an outdoor oasis that we utilize during the warm months and are sorry to see closed during the winter months,” Sherry says. After nearly thirty years of transformation, their 217-year-old home is the entertaining hot spot for friends, family and grandkids. Fun Facts: A Kegerator? Simpler than it sounds, a Kegerator is a dispensing device connected to a keg (typically of beer) that is kept in a refrigerated container. It maintains the quality of the beer for longer periods of time, even for several months. Approximately 60 tons of stone base material were used for this project. Two patios were added that combined a total area of 1,100 square feet of natural flagstone. This landscape features about 18,000 pounds of flagstone. This article appears in the April 2016 issue of Susquehanna Style Did you like what you read here? Subscribe to Susquehanna Style » http://www.susquehannastyle.com/April-2016/Historic-Hot-Spot/

This landscape design showcases a harmonious integration of natural rock formations and a variety of plant life to create a serene and inviting garden space. The focal point is a flowing water feature that meanders through the arrangement, with carefully placed rocks and boulders that mimic a natural stream. Above, the vibrant sky peeks through lush, towering greenery, adding a dynamic background. The garden beds are densely planted with a mix of textures and colors, including purple flowering ground cover, striking yucca plants with their sword-like leaves, and cascading greenery of a weeping conifer. The pathways are neatly outlined with lighter stones, contrasting with the darker mulch and rich green lawn. This inviting outdoor area seems perfect for relaxation and contemplation, enhanced by the soothing sounds of the water feature and the secluded, private feel offered by the tall plants and trees. The overall effect is one of a meticulously designed landscape that combines elements of a rock garden, water garden, and an ornamental garden with a diverse palette of plants.

The alder wood hutch in the background use to be a wet bar that we redesigned to hold the t.v. and sound system.
Family room photo in Los Angeles

This shot looks toward the back yard from the old living room. The removal of the load-bearing wall made a 15x26 room with two spacious seating areas - one for conversation and the other for watching TV and enjoying the wooded back yard. Marvin patio door has 2 fixed and one operating door to provide access to patio and back garden. The old bedroom closet became the built-in media center with specialized wiring for cable tv, telephone, and surge-protected outlets to protect electronics and audio equipment. Dark background color in alcove helps to hide surround sound speakers. Photos by homeowner

These Queen Anne homeowners had completely remodeled their home and were looking for a low maintenance, enjoyable yard that would accentuate their views and provide outdoor space for their dogs. Another important goal was to attract birds and pollinators to the garden, in part for photographic opportunities. A series of Corten planters create planting space along the back property line while leaving plenty of room for artificial turf that the family dogs can enjoy. A recirculating urn water feature creates a pleasant sound, a focal point and most importantly, attracts birds to the garden. Privacy screens designed using OutDeco panels create interest on both sides and focus views to the mountains in the background. Front and backyards were completely redesigned for ease of maintenance.

Tucked Under the Balcony / Catwalk in the Kitchen / Gathering Room. Epoxy coated concrete floors, smooth white painted drywall walls, Home entertainment and sound system. In the background a Quad Sliding Patio Door opens to the Indoor Grilling Area

These Queen Anne homeowners had completely remodeled their home and were looking for a low maintenance, enjoyable yard that would accentuate their views and provide outdoor space for their dogs. Another important goal was to attract birds and pollinators to the garden, in part for photographic opportunities. A series of Corten planters create planting space along the back property line while leaving plenty of room for artificial turf that the family dogs can enjoy. A recirculating urn water feature creates a pleasant sound, a focal point and most importantly, attracts birds to the garden. Privacy screens designed using OutDeco panels create interest on both sides and focus views to the mountains in the background. Front and backyards were completely redesigned for ease of maintenance.

Sonia Barry
Mid-sized tuscan backyard stone and rectangular lap hot tub photo in DC Metro

Banker Wire’s architectural woven mesh is a key design element in the Willow Park Showhome, built by Zen Custom Homes and designed by AstonMorrone Designs. Utilized in two separate applications within the home—as a wall divider in the office, and as a statement kitchen island feature—the designer relied on Banker Wire’s M22-83 wire mesh pattern to create visual separations that allow the light to pass through, without impeding the flow of the open-planned space. Acting as a statement kitchen counter partition, M22-83’s stainless steel and brass finish brings warmth to the expansive, open kitchen. Fabricated within a red maple-colored wood frame, the wire mesh creates a dividing screen by connecting the bottom of the kitchen counter with the wood ceiling accent above, which spans the length and width of the counter. When lit by the kitchen ceiling lighting source, M22-83 is brought to life; created using a pair of nested helical crimped woven wires to define the circular mesh shape, this pattern’s doubled circle mesh creates unique reflective surfaces, allowing the light to pass through the mesh in varying ways. Similarly, this combination of stainless steel and brass gives off a colorful, luxurious aesthetic, where the depth and movement of the contrasting woven wires—of silver and gold tones—dynamically change as the viewer’s perspective shifts. In addition to creating a striking, statement background for the lights to reflect off of, this wood-mesh divider installation directs the line of sight towards the outside view of the home’s backyard. The double woven nature of the M22-83 pattern gives strength to this weave, making it a suitable option for a screen wall or space divider. The wire mesh application within this showhome office space acts as a partition that visually divides the front foyer while doubling as the back of a shelving wall. With the goal of creating a space that can be used as a flex-room or a working studio, the design team prioritized having natural light and a connection to the rest of the home. The Banker Wire mesh allows the sound and light to pass from the peripheral spaces through the length of the office space, with the trees in the transom windows located in the front foyer visible from behind the wire mesh divider wall. Additionally, the stainless steel and brass finish mirrors the wood millwork accents within the space, further adding to the masculine aesthetic of the design scheme while providing contrasting texture.

A mural of pink peonies, scaled to fit the longest wall in the room, is strategically positioned as a Zoom backdrop. Walls match the mural’s off-black background, as if the artist had painted directly on them. Highlighting the tall windows, black painted frames add graphic interest against the cream sills. Simple cream drapery emphasizes the ceiling height while absorbing sound and adding warmth. A huge custom rug unifies the seating and working areas and further contributes to the hushed atmosphere. In order for this room to feel more like a retreat and less like an office, we used regular furniture pieces in non-standard ways. The client’s heirloom dining table serves as a writing table. A pair of brass and glass consoles holds printer, stationery, and files as well as decorative items. A cream lacquered linen sideboard provides additional storage. A pair of cushy swivel chairs serves multiple functions – facing a loveseat and bench to create a cozy seating area, facing each other for intimate discussions, and facing the desk for more standard business meetings.

This article is posted here with the consent of the author. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, view, or opinion of Crestron Electronics, Inc., or of any of its employees. Crestron Electronics is not responsible for, and does not verify the accuracy of, any of the information contained in this article. By Jeff Singer The “smart” revolution began several years ago with smartphones (a.k.a phones) and has extended in recent years to thermostats, doorbells, alarm systems, and kitchen appliances. Smart devices are so ubiquitous that the term “smart” is overused to the point that it is almost meaningless. Companies are eager to jump on the bandwagon and claim their products are “smart,” and consumers proudly claim they have a smart home because they have lighting control. Misconceptions about smart homes are prevalent and create confusion in the marketplace. This can have deleterious effects on businesses and underserve consumers. Here are seven of the most popular misconceptions about smart homes: 1. Apps are smart Apps are convenient and easy to use. Yes, it seems there’s an app for everything. People expect to be able to download an app and do just about anything. App developers and many companies do not disavow consumers of this myth. On the contrary, they promote this idea with carefully worded descriptions. The promise of having the world at your fingertips for $1.99 is very enticing. Although it sounds too good to be true, it is also too good to pass up for many people. This leads to undervaluing home control and disappointment when the apps don’t work, which undermines confidence in our industry. The fact is that apps are not smart. They do not control anything. They must connect to and communicate with a control system or cloud service that processes, prioritizes, and executes commands. That’s the real magic and what most people do not understand. 2. Smart devices work together With so many smart appliances and devices on the market today, it’s understandable that the average consumer might think that they actually communicate and work together. This is simply not the case. Smart devices are not that smart. They are designed and manufactured by different, often competing, companies. There are no national or industry standards governing these products. Even if they all operate using Wi-Fi® communications, that doesn’t mean they work together. Some companies promote a home control platform, which unites different devices from different companies – in theory. The platform is yet another third-party software totally dependent on other companies developing APIs and writing control modules for their hardware to run on that piece of software. The devices are not independently compatible. Also, when updates are made to either the hardware or the software, functionality may be affected for some period. That’s a nice way of saying the device or system won’t work and there’s no way of knowing for how long. 3. It’s a DIY project Which brings us to the next myth, which is that the average person can do it themselves. Unless you are a skilled professional, I would not advise taking on a smart home project. You want to make a light turn on and off with your Alexa® or Google Assistant™ virtual assistant software, go for it. A smart home takes much more planning and expertise. I have no problem changing a light bulb or hanging a light fixture in my dining room; however, I am not going to rewire my house. I may change the flush valve in my toilet, but I’m not going to replace the pipes in my house. You get it. Integrating devices and systems, establishing different zones, creating scenes, designing the UI with a balance between control, feedback, and simplicity – all takes experience and skill. 4. Need a programmer to make changes Early adopters may have experienced the pain of trying to make a simple change or update to their home control system. Years ago, if the cable provider changed the channel line-up, the homeowner would have to call the dealer or programmer to make an appointment for them to come out to the house to reprogram the system. The system wouldn’t work as expected until it was updated, which often took several days and beaucoup bucks. Not anymore. Technology has evolved so now it’s easy for system owners to change favorite channels, create scenes, rename buttons, update images, and more. While a professional is needed for the initial installation and setup, the system is easy to manage once it’s up and running. This makes life so much easier for both dealer and customer. 5. Tech becomes obsolete quickly Similar to updating the UI, updating firmware or hardware used to be a stressful process. A smart home should be intelligent enough to update itself. Apps don’t become obsolete. Updates are constantly pushed out from the cloud, making them better all the time. The same is true for a good smart home system. New features, functions, and device support gets added in the background consistently, so the system you installed (or purchased) yesterday gets better over time. Swapping out decorative elements, such as keypads, dimmers, and touch screens is also seamless. When a new device is added, all the settings are pulled down from the cloud and it just works. No system interruptions. No sunk costs. No imposing house calls. No surprise bills. 6. Lighting control saves energy and money Lighting control is one of the most popular smart systems, but it takes more than just one system to make a home smart. On the surface, it makes sense that if you dim the lights ten percent, then you save ten percent of energy costs. If the shades are raised during the day to take advantage of sunlight so the lights don’t need to be on (or at least not 100%), but that causes the room temperature to rise a few degrees, which triggers the air conditioner to run longer and more often, was energy usage (or cost) reduced? A smart home integrates all the various systems and technology to optimize comfort, convenience, safety, and sometimes energy. 7. Home technology is easy to hack Security is at the forefront of people’s minds these days. Personal identities are stolen; email accounts hacked; private photos publicized; and more. A smart home must outsmart those who don’t respect privacy. Crestron control systems adhere to the strictest security standards. The same Crestron control system that goes into a home is also installed in secure government and military facilities, global banking institutions, hospitals, and other mission critical applications. When installed correctly by a trained professional, a Crestron smart home is the gold standard for security, comfort, and convenience.

These Queen Anne homeowners had completely remodeled their home and were looking for a low maintenance, enjoyable yard that would accentuate their views and provide outdoor space for their dogs. Another important goal was to attract birds and pollinators to the garden, in part for photographic opportunities. A series of Corten planters create planting space along the back property line while leaving plenty of room for artificial turf that the family dogs can enjoy. A recirculating urn water feature creates a pleasant sound, a focal point and most importantly, attracts birds to the garden. Privacy screens designed using OutDeco panels create interest on both sides and focus views to the mountains in the background. Front and backyards were completely redesigned for ease of maintenance.

Nice clean installation for the "Ultimate House 2018" project. Simple, yet operational and versatile solution allowing TV or background audio through the TV soundbar via a simple App or voice command.

New Rosetta Grand Flagstone pavers, low seat wall and fire pit kit. Landscape contractor Kaio-Maddox, llc. of Tacoma. Background landscaping to follow.

The space is just the right size for a small group to sit and linger over conversation. The gentle sound of the overflowing urn in the background adds to the ambiance. Design, installation, and styling by Merrifield Garden Center. Photo: Chris Collins