Search results for "Benefits categories" in Home Design Ideas
![Karla Trincanello, NJ CID, ASID Allied](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/bathrooms/karla-trincanello-nj-cid-asid-allied-karla-trincanello-cid-interior-decisions-inc-img~234191710f72769e_0743-1-06fc171-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Karla Trincanello, CID, Interior Decisions, Inc.](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/ede39fd60f724723_4687-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Master Bathroom renovation. For convenience we also reversed a closet from behind the bathroom to make the existing linen closet deeper and accomodate a stackable washer/dryer.
Paint color: B. Moore # HC30 Philadelphia cream
Photo credit: Peter Rymwid
![new](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/powder-rooms/new-annie-o-carroll-interior-design-img~5801eee206128279_8153-1-9499d3b-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Annie O'Carroll Interior Design](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/3b5340100f59513e_2655-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Powder room - small southwestern blue tile powder room idea in Albuquerque with a vessel sink, blue walls and solid surface countertops
![u2014 ALE: Tiered Living Garden](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/71d1001102b49f23_1271-w360-h360-b0-p0--.jpg)
![Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/5823bd2901bb5977_2632-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Brown Design Group http://www.bdgla.com
Project Entry: Tiered Living Garden
2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner
Category: Residential $60,000-$120,000
Award Level: Gold
Photo Description:
This project exemplifies good design, craftsmanship, hard work and excellent communication between client and designer/contractor. In the first meeting the client told us “we would think she was crazy for wanting to do what she had in mind for her back yard”. We disagreed and brought her vision as an Art Teacher to life. We worked out several layouts and went over the possibilities before deciding on one to refine.
The project focused on utilizing the entire yard, and creating individual “use” spaces, that flowed to one another. A large concern for the project was neighboring views and creating privacy on this elevated site. An additional concern was site access and how limited it was. In order to access the site we could only use a 34” walkway along the left side of the house.
The use spaces were created by determine functions the client wished to have including outdoor cooking and dining, relaxing by a fire, sun bathing, refreshing in a swim spa, somewhere to garden, and somewhere to just hang out and listen to nature.
Being elevated from the site we knew we would have to create levels, in order to reduce the dis-connect from the top level to the garden area.
By creating a mid level we were able to accomplish a continueing space and accomplish a function space for sun bathing and spa area. The requset for a swim spa gave way to a semi built in spa for size and overall budget concerns, yet still allows for refreshing in the summer, and adds therapeutic benefit the rest of the year. This area alos features an outdoor shower, built in bench area, that additionally works as a spa cover hideaway that rolls in and out and plenty of room for lounge chairs.
The lowest level of the garden brings you the feel of hanging out in a much larger space with the sounds of the water feature and fine textured specimen plantings. It also provides space for gardening and storage in a custom built shed to tie in with the house and garden architecture.
The upper most space holds the most used function of the garden for cooking, dining, hanging out by the built in fire feature or sitting at the bar watching TV on the outdoor weather proof set. Amenities of the kitchen include 36” stainless steel grill, ice maker, refrigerator, bar sink, and various stainless steel storage areas. A built in outdoor TV is also located in this area as well as an exterior ceiling fan. The total kitchen space is covered by a custom built painted cellular vinyl pergola to look like cedar without the maintenance. A retractable cover and blinds were also installed to shade the cooking and entertaining area. Off the kitchen area is dining and living space also covered with a second pergola structure that ties in to the main one. This area also holds the fire feature to extend the season and provide interest from below.
All areas of the garden have zoned irrigation, and line and low voltage lighting. The color scheme was derived around the idea of natural tones that would blend with the house and allow garden plantings and accents to provide the pops of color. While the custom screening and plant material provide a sense of intimacy in this elevated site. The fine attention to details of use of materials on this site exemplifies our staffs craftsmanship, dedication, strong work ethic and wide range of skills.
Photo Credit: SkySight Photography
Find the right local pro for your project
![2013 ALE: Residence on Fairfax](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/pools/2013-ale-residence-on-fairfax-pennsylvania-landscape-and-nursery-association-img~d531040901dc66ed_5937-1-3a073ec-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/5823bd2901bb5977_2632-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Hively Landscapes http://www.hivelylandscapes.com/
Project Entry: Residence on Fairfax
Category: Residential $60,000 & Over
Award Level: Bronze
Project Description:
Our clients, Lisa and Mark, approached us to design and install an outdoor living area at their residence. Their criteria were simple: they wished to install a pool and a partially shaded entertaining area, while eliminating the blacktopped parking area behind their residence. They emphasized the importance of preserving the view of the surrounding countryside from their second story windows and deck. They wished the project to be a good value - modest in cost, and not extravagant
Lisa has an appreciation for gardening and wanted to care for her landscape on her own, but has limited time. The only request of Mark was a simple cooking area with both a charcoal and a gas grill, and a preparation counter. We suggested a few additional objectives: to create a secure yet dramatic and inviting entrance to the new living area, and to introduce the client to the benefits of creative landscape lighting.
A challenge on this property, as on most projects, was to manage the additional stormwater resulting from the impervious paved areas as well as an addition to the home. Wherever possible, the new paving was sloped towards planting areas or lawn areas for natural infiltration. Where necessary, the paving was gently sloped to several floor drains. These drains, along with downspouts, were plumbed to a properly sized infiltration pit. Existing grades were carefully considered and modified as necessary. Another challenge was working around existing sanitary sewer lines, and leaving existing cleanouts accessible yet disguised within the planting areas.
The project was designed around an existing water well, which had been abandoned years prior when the residence was connected to public water service. We recommended reactivating the well for landscape use This source was used to supply an outdoor hydrant and a drip irrigation system, which we designed and placed throughout the plantings.
While the material choices for the segmental retaining wall and paving were conservative, we used design tricks to add interest. An area rug was created in the pergola area by utilizing a man-made flagstone material with a paver border. Columns with lanterns enhance the retaining wall. The client desired to not see plastic coping or concrete around the pool. We recommended a bullnose paver pool coping. This was installed by one of our own hardscaping crews, using colored mortar. Challenging curves and corners called for precise cuts in the coping and in the paving.
A special feature of the new entrance is the gate, which we designed from stock components and had built at a local shop. Dogwood castings and a plasma-cut steel wildlife scene acknowledge Lisa and Mark's love of gardening and wildlife. All other components are aluminum (with recycled content), and the finished product was powder coated for durability. The flying birds were added to the wildlife scene in the shop to satisfy zoning requirements for maximum opening size. Repetition of the block columns and lanterns completes a very secure yet inviting entrance.
Aluminum picket fencing was used in visible areas and to complement the gate. The rear and sides of the property received black wire mesh on the existing split rail fence, which was economical and satisfies security needs while blending into the rural surroundings.
We designed a landscape planting that would result in color throughout the seasons and create a sense of enclosure without detracting from the desirable views. A large maple was relocated to another location on the property, and a pin oak was protected and preserved. The garden areas adjacent to the pool paving received weed control fabric and gravel, which keeps maintenance low and keeps the paving clean. Lisa has had to do very little pruning, weeding, or watering, and spends most of her gardening effort in planting colorful container gardens. Our clients greatly appreciate the birds and butterflies that have been attracted to the property.
During the initial installation, footers for a future shade structure were precisely installed, inspected, and paved over. A custom-manufactured PVC pergola with retractable canopies and roll-down blinds was placed the following season.
We recommended and installed a variety of landscape lighting, including lanterns on the columns and on the house (installed by others), and low voltage pathway lights. Low voltage rope lighting concealed in the rafters of the pergola produces a warm glow.
We are proud of achieving all of the client's goals as well as several goals that we introduced to them_ We have received many compliments, and have worked with Mark and Lisa on several additional projects.
![From Mid Century to Contemporary Master Bathroom](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/bathrooms/from-mid-century-to-contemporary-master-bathroom-id-by-gwen-img~01b1b6540f3023c4_2140-1-5b59a54-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![ID by Gwen](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/c01387960dc4de9e_5384-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Modern large master bathroom. Very airy and light.
Pure white Caesarstone quartz counter, hansgrohe metris faucet, glass mosaic tile (Daltile - City lights), taupe 12 x 24 porcelain floor (tierra Sol, English bay collection), bamboo cabinet, Georges Kovacs wall sconces, wall mirror
Photo credit: Jonathan Solomon - http://www.solomonimages.com/
![Jennifer Post designed apartment at The Bath Club, Miami Beach](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/living-rooms/jennifer-post-designed-apartment-at-the-bath-club-miami-beach-interiors-and-architecture-photography-by-ken-hayden-img~2341bf5d0057672e_5192-1-b59f816-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Interiors & Architecture Photography by Ken Hayden](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/96f373c400575fce_3438-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Copyright Ken Hayden Photography
Living room seating area to balcony and sea view.
Minimalist living room photo in Miami with white walls
Minimalist living room photo in Miami with white walls
![Classical Kitchen](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/kitchens/classical-kitchen-pickell-architecture-img~d981d9dd0023db77_6802-1-2a9937a-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Pickell Architecture](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/1f53b22e0022763f_5775-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Photo Credit - Katrina Mojzesz
topkatphoto.com
Interior Design - Katja van der Loo
Papyrus Home Design
papyrushomedesign.com
Homeowner & Design Director -
Sue Walter, subeeskitchen.com
![Custom Reach-In Closets](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/closets/custom-reach-in-closets-mountain-sky-closets-img~a721c0d806548a01_1783-1-b307090-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Mountain Sky Closets](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/f5039eac05df818b_7973-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Reach-in closet - mid-sized transitional women's slate floor reach-in closet idea in Denver with flat-panel cabinets and white cabinets
![Detailed Craftsman Home](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/exteriors/detailed-craftsman-home-ww-builders-design-build-associates-img~ee71d55500370c71_0344-1-bc17f12-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![User](http://www.houzz.com/res/28698993/pic/user_0.png?v=28698993)
Detailed Craftsman Front View. Often referred to as a "bungalow" style home, this type of design and layout typically make use of every square foot of usable space. Another benefit to this style home is it lends itself nicely to long, narrow lots and small building footprints. Stunning curb appeal, detaling and a friendly, inviting look are true Craftsman characteristics. Makes you just want to knock on the door to see what's inside!
Steven Begleiter/ stevenbegleiterphotography.com
![2013 ALE: Residence on Fairfax](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/patios/2013-ale-residence-on-fairfax-pennsylvania-landscape-and-nursery-association-img~f0c14b5501dc6848_5938-1-b8545fc-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/5823bd2901bb5977_2632-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Hively Landscapes http://www.hivelylandscapes.com/
Project Entry: Residence on Fairfax
Category: Residential $60,000 & Over
Award Level: Bronze
Project Description:
Our clients, Lisa and Mark, approached us to design and install an outdoor living area at their residence. Their criteria were simple: they wished to install a pool and a partially shaded entertaining area, while eliminating the blacktopped parking area behind their residence. They emphasized the importance of preserving the view of the surrounding countryside from their second story windows and deck. They wished the project to be a good value - modest in cost, and not extravagant
Lisa has an appreciation for gardening and wanted to care for her landscape on her own, but has limited time. The only request of Mark was a simple cooking area with both a charcoal and a gas grill, and a preparation counter. We suggested a few additional objectives: to create a secure yet dramatic and inviting entrance to the new living area, and to introduce the client to the benefits of creative landscape lighting.
A challenge on this property, as on most projects, was to manage the additional stormwater resulting from the impervious paved areas as well as an addition to the home. Wherever possible, the new paving was sloped towards planting areas or lawn areas for natural infiltration. Where necessary, the paving was gently sloped to several floor drains. These drains, along with downspouts, were plumbed to a properly sized infiltration pit. Existing grades were carefully considered and modified as necessary. Another challenge was working around existing sanitary sewer lines, and leaving existing cleanouts accessible yet disguised within the planting areas.
The project was designed around an existing water well, which had been abandoned years prior when the residence was connected to public water service. We recommended reactivating the well for landscape use This source was used to supply an outdoor hydrant and a drip irrigation system, which we designed and placed throughout the plantings.
While the material choices for the segmental retaining wall and paving were conservative, we used design tricks to add interest. An area rug was created in the pergola area by utilizing a man-made flagstone material with a paver border. Columns with lanterns enhance the retaining wall. The client desired to not see plastic coping or concrete around the pool. We recommended a bullnose paver pool coping. This was installed by one of our own hardscaping crews, using colored mortar. Challenging curves and corners called for precise cuts in the coping and in the paving.
A special feature of the new entrance is the gate, which we designed from stock components and had built at a local shop. Dogwood castings and a plasma-cut steel wildlife scene acknowledge Lisa and Mark's love of gardening and wildlife. All other components are aluminum (with recycled content), and the finished product was powder coated for durability. The flying birds were added to the wildlife scene in the shop to satisfy zoning requirements for maximum opening size. Repetition of the block columns and lanterns completes a very secure yet inviting entrance.
Aluminum picket fencing was used in visible areas and to complement the gate. The rear and sides of the property received black wire mesh on the existing split rail fence, which was economical and satisfies security needs while blending into the rural surroundings.
We designed a landscape planting that would result in color throughout the seasons and create a sense of enclosure without detracting from the desirable views. A large maple was relocated to another location on the property, and a pin oak was protected and preserved. The garden areas adjacent to the pool paving received weed control fabric and gravel, which keeps maintenance low and keeps the paving clean. Lisa has had to do very little pruning, weeding, or watering, and spends most of her gardening effort in planting colorful container gardens. Our clients greatly appreciate the birds and butterflies that have been attracted to the property.
During the initial installation, footers for a future shade structure were precisely installed, inspected, and paved over. A custom-manufactured PVC pergola with retractable canopies and roll-down blinds was placed the following season.
We recommended and installed a variety of landscape lighting, including lanterns on the columns and on the house (installed by others), and low voltage pathway lights. Low voltage rope lighting concealed in the rafters of the pergola produces a warm glow.
We are proud of achieving all of the client's goals as well as several goals that we introduced to them_ We have received many compliments, and have worked with Mark and Lisa on several additional projects.
![Everything you want to know about Air Conditioner Repair Denver](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/d9b158ad0aae8e80_9869-w360-h360-b0-p0--.jpg)
![Xyz Enterprises Llc](http://www.houzz.com/res/28698993/pic/user_0.png?v=28698993)
Whether it is the AC Module Repair or Air Conditioning Repair Denver get the most reliable, efficient and economical services at your door step in no time at all. If you are in Denver, you are the best person to know the importance of a good air conditioning system in a house, office or any other property, considering the high temperatures that make the day to day life difficult here. But thanks to the innumerable companies that provide every possible service related to an air conditioning system, you will never have to bother whether it is an AC Module Repair, its installation, maintenance or Air Conditioning Repair Denver.
The services offered by the companies generally include:
• Free consultations
• Installations of the air conditioners
• 24X7 emergency repair of the unit
• Maintenance plans for the air conditioning units
• Pool Installation
• Pool Heating
• Pool Repair
• Maintenance and control of indoor air quality
There are several companies in Denver that are considerably old and experienced in providing services and have a loyal fan following that keeps coming back to them. When you hire one of these companies for their services, you can be assured of:
Professional Services available 24X7
There is no bigger helpless feeling than losing your air conditioner services in the middle of a hot and sultry day, without any help at hand. The problem is worse if it is your office or workplace that is affected. It is for such emergency situations that the service companies are ready with help 24X7 and reach their customer in the minimum time possible. From a time consuming AC Module Repair to a complete Air Conditioning Repair Denver, you can easily rely on them at such crucial times.
Expertise with all Popular Brands
You will not have to worry about getting reliable and quality services in case you are a user of quality brands. The expert and qualified technicians in the company are pro with all the latest technologies and popular brands of Air conditioners like Goodman, Rheem, Amana, Ruud, FHP, Trane and American Standard. Expect fast, efficient and quality services at all times
Free Consultation
These companies do not stop at just giving you quality and reliable services like installation, maintenance, AC Module repair or Air Conditioning Repair Denver but with their years of experience in the field, they are also there to give their customers a free consultation in case they are confused about the HVAC system that will be perfect for their business or home, the budget they will require or the size of unit they should choose.
Having an air conditioning system at any place whether residential or commercial is a substantial investment and should be a much thought over and researched decision. With the free consultation and services ranging from installation to repair of the air conditioning units, these service companies are nothing less than a boon you can hire for yourself.
![2013 ALE: Residence on Fairfax](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/patios/2013-ale-residence-on-fairfax-pennsylvania-landscape-and-nursery-association-img~bc512ec201dc6803_5938-1-d41d38d-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/5823bd2901bb5977_2632-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Hively Landscapes http://www.hivelylandscapes.com/
Project Entry: Residence on Fairfax
Category: Residential $60,000 & Over
Award Level: Bronze
Project Description:
Our clients, Lisa and Mark, approached us to design and install an outdoor living area at their residence. Their criteria were simple: they wished to install a pool and a partially shaded entertaining area, while eliminating the blacktopped parking area behind their residence. They emphasized the importance of preserving the view of the surrounding countryside from their second story windows and deck. They wished the project to be a good value - modest in cost, and not extravagant
Lisa has an appreciation for gardening and wanted to care for her landscape on her own, but has limited time. The only request of Mark was a simple cooking area with both a charcoal and a gas grill, and a preparation counter. We suggested a few additional objectives: to create a secure yet dramatic and inviting entrance to the new living area, and to introduce the client to the benefits of creative landscape lighting.
A challenge on this property, as on most projects, was to manage the additional stormwater resulting from the impervious paved areas as well as an addition to the home. Wherever possible, the new paving was sloped towards planting areas or lawn areas for natural infiltration. Where necessary, the paving was gently sloped to several floor drains. These drains, along with downspouts, were plumbed to a properly sized infiltration pit. Existing grades were carefully considered and modified as necessary. Another challenge was working around existing sanitary sewer lines, and leaving existing cleanouts accessible yet disguised within the planting areas.
The project was designed around an existing water well, which had been abandoned years prior when the residence was connected to public water service. We recommended reactivating the well for landscape use This source was used to supply an outdoor hydrant and a drip irrigation system, which we designed and placed throughout the plantings.
While the material choices for the segmental retaining wall and paving were conservative, we used design tricks to add interest. An area rug was created in the pergola area by utilizing a man-made flagstone material with a paver border. Columns with lanterns enhance the retaining wall. The client desired to not see plastic coping or concrete around the pool. We recommended a bullnose paver pool coping. This was installed by one of our own hardscaping crews, using colored mortar. Challenging curves and corners called for precise cuts in the coping and in the paving.
A special feature of the new entrance is the gate, which we designed from stock components and had built at a local shop. Dogwood castings and a plasma-cut steel wildlife scene acknowledge Lisa and Mark's love of gardening and wildlife. All other components are aluminum (with recycled content), and the finished product was powder coated for durability. The flying birds were added to the wildlife scene in the shop to satisfy zoning requirements for maximum opening size. Repetition of the block columns and lanterns completes a very secure yet inviting entrance.
Aluminum picket fencing was used in visible areas and to complement the gate. The rear and sides of the property received black wire mesh on the existing split rail fence, which was economical and satisfies security needs while blending into the rural surroundings.
We designed a landscape planting that would result in color throughout the seasons and create a sense of enclosure without detracting from the desirable views. A large maple was relocated to another location on the property, and a pin oak was protected and preserved. The garden areas adjacent to the pool paving received weed control fabric and gravel, which keeps maintenance low and keeps the paving clean. Lisa has had to do very little pruning, weeding, or watering, and spends most of her gardening effort in planting colorful container gardens. Our clients greatly appreciate the birds and butterflies that have been attracted to the property.
During the initial installation, footers for a future shade structure were precisely installed, inspected, and paved over. A custom-manufactured PVC pergola with retractable canopies and roll-down blinds was placed the following season.
We recommended and installed a variety of landscape lighting, including lanterns on the columns and on the house (installed by others), and low voltage pathway lights. Low voltage rope lighting concealed in the rafters of the pergola produces a warm glow.
We are proud of achieving all of the client's goals as well as several goals that we introduced to them_ We have received many compliments, and have worked with Mark and Lisa on several additional projects.
![Hyde Park Exterior Renovation](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/891132580022f464_6083-w360-h360-b0-p0--.jpg)
![The English Contractor & Remodeling Services](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/2ba3116601e87237_1119-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
The back yard patio is the new living room.
Let’s discuss.
If you’ve tried to purchase an outdoor, propane heater, new grill, or even outdoor seating in the past six months, this is not news to you. We’re all doing our best to manage through the pandemic while still enjoying social connections and time with family and friends. The solution that so many of us have adopted is to spend more time outside. There’s a Norwegian saying that says, “there is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” It’s a mantra worth adopting these days. We have a lot of customers who are ready to bundle up and enjoy their back yards as much as they enjoy their living rooms. But these lucky homeowners have had that opportunity for the past six months. Reading any further may make you pretty jealous, but we hope that it inspires you for a future project in your own back yard.
Showing Results for "Benefits Categories"
![Pear St](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/patios/pear-st-sweet-smiling-landscapes-img~84e179840a0a23e3_5232-1-6d9d875-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Sweet Smiling Landscapes](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/8293759b0a0a2311_3777-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
This small urban patio transformed into a productive, edible oasis.
Small elegant backyard patio vegetable garden photo in Santa Barbara with no cover
Small elegant backyard patio vegetable garden photo in Santa Barbara with no cover
![Girls Bedroom & Bath](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/kids-rooms/girls-bedroom-and-bath-margaret-l-norcott-allied-asid-img~7fd180eb0cdb7453_7829-1-003c55e-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Margaret L. Norcott, Allied ASID](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/caa354970cdb0795_3865-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
This space was very large for a 2nd floor bedroom and had an attached full bath. It was wonderful to see all my ideas pulled together through the use of art, paint, texture, fabrics, to the rug and furniture. Each piece was integral in completing the overall look and feel of the space.
Photo Credit: Burt Welleford Photography
![Alluminio Collection](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/410181c000b82c9d_3695-w360-h360-b0-p0--.jpg)
![Almesedoors](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/24d3a95b0b62dc15_4165-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
THE DOOR NAME ORIGIN - "ALLUMINIO ELIVIA VERTICAL WOOD GRAIN 4HS"
Of all the interior door models in the Elivia collection, this one is perhaps the most unapologetically elegant. Why? Hmm … That which is self-evident can be the most difficult to explain. Is it because it is built using the latest breakthroughs in interior door making technology? Look at the finish: the process of applying it utilizes something called “stretching” by professionals, which is to say that instead of simply slapping the finish on top of the interior door’s surface, our company fuses (for lack of a better word) the materials (on molecular level, no less), the result being that the finished product is more warp-resistant, scratch-resistant, and fade-proof than any interior door put together in the past. This is especially important in climates known for their high humidity levels. Yes, but this has more to do with engineering than aesthetics, right? Okay, so, is this interior door super-elegant because ... Show more!
FINISH: WALNUT
When it comes to interior door finishes, walnut may not be king per se, since “different folk have different views,” as the poet said, and it behooves a proper collection of finishes to be thoroughly democratic; but, but … you could view walnut as an important majority leader descended from royalty – like, say, Louis Napoleon back when he was still an elected official and not, as he eventually came to style himself, Napoleon III.
Strictly speaking, a walnut is the seed of a drupaceous nut, and not a true nut in the botanical sense. It is native to Persia (walnut oil is a staple in Iranian cuisine to this day) and North America, even though approximately one half of the world’s production today is done in China.
That said, one of its more historically curious uses would be the production of ink and dyes. Those are made, or used to be made, at least, from the husk surrounding the nut. The ink could be used to produce drawings – or darken paper to make it look older. It has (as it turned out by the by) excellent archival properties. It was used liberally by many capable and honest artists in the past.
A keen observer of the human condition, a Florentine named Leonardo da Vinci never left his house (which featured some pretty interesting interior doors, but that’s a story for another day) … never left it without a vial – and a sketch book.
As he took leisurely strolls around the streets and piazzas, he observed folks – socializing, arguing, fighting, striking bargains, and gossiping. Let us mention in passing – and this is merely an opinion, mind you – that his sketches seem to be a great deal livelier than his portraits, which for the most part adhere to the epoch’s somewhat mawkish standards and the algebraic, rather than harmonious, approach to depicting humans. The perpetual beguiling mystery of Mona Lisa’s smile is undoubtedly magnificent, but it is the Tuscan polymath’s quick yet amazingly insightful drawings that give us an idea – oftentimes a very comprehensive one – of what everyday life was truly like in Florence in the Sixteenth Century. An old man gloating at someone’s misfortune, two passionate merchants arguing over the price of some highly important delivery, a young woman lamenting the lack of decent men whom a reasonable person could view as husband material, and on and on – it’s all there in Leonardo’s sketches characterized by masterful lines and elegant shading despite the obvious – and necessary – impetuosity of each sketch. So precious and brilliant are those casual masterpieces that, had the scientifically inclined fellow eliminated the need for outdoor sketching by inventing photography, it would have been an historian’s immeasurable gain, certainly, but also an art lover’s great loss.
The idea behind our Walnut Finish is to invoke in the interior door owner a feeling of timeless historicity. Some things change, but others are forever. Stability is an important quality in an interior door, is it not?
Rembrandt van Rijn, who also used walnut ink extensively, was a studio artist, with only a few outdoor paintings in his legacy. Truth be told, he was a better draftsman than Leonardo, at least as far as technique goes (don’t let this get around). Well. He lived a century later and had the benefit of all the development art had undergone since the great Italian master. Just like these interior doors – your interior doors – are a huge improvement on anything that was available only twenty years ago, never mind a hundred years ago.
The “oscillation” of Rembrandt’s line, the delightful shift from the descriptive to the aesthetic stroke, makes his production in that category quite unique. Upon reaching artistic maturity, the stubborn Dutch master began to shun the unbroken contour line, which caused a lot of trouble for his drawings a century later, when dealers and collectors who wished to “update” his sketches to fit the current fashion had the audacity to “complete” Rembrandt’s pen-and-inks. Fortunately, some of the sketches escaped this sorry fate and have been preserved in their original glorious state to this day. Rembrandt’s mastery is yet another thing this interior door finish might remind you of each time you look at your doors.
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