This elegant U-shaped staircase rises in a home blessed with mountain views and abundant natural light. Positioned to the right of the front door and adjacent to the panoramic open living space, the staircase features thick natural wood treads and a post-to-post handrail that complement the home's beautiful woodwork throughout. White-painted newels and risers keep the design feeling fresh and bright. A two-floor overlook balcony with matching white railing extends above, creating visual connection between levels while framing views of the surrounding mountains. The result is a staircase that feels both simple and refined, letting the home's natural setting and architectural details take center stage. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Dave Burk@Hedrich Blessing and Paul Warchol
Example of a large 1950s open concept ceramic tile living room design in Chicago

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

The street side view of this custom Shrock Premier cottage is pleasantly deceptive. Upon entering the spacious two story foyer, you immediately notice the fresh, open concept, airy high ceilings, and magnetic lake views which are framed across the back expanse of this lovely home. The custom trim details, paint color, furnishings, and soft textures are refreshing and crisp. This charmer is perfect for just two, with a main level master suite adjoined to a private sitting area and the home is also an ideal destination for family gatherings and festivities with friends. There is not only a bright, beautiful well- appointed kitchen on the main level, but there is also a full kitchen in the basement walk-out level as well. Friends and family will stay in comfort with 4 extra bedrooms, and 4 additional baths. Outside you’ll find a lake view upper deck and a lower walk out patio leading to a cozy fire pit. This serene beach inspired home also features a pool and private dock. The total experience of this Shrock Premier haven is one which brings harmony to the soul. This custom home provides a peaceful place for relaxing, enjoying friends and family, and celebrating the blessings of life. Fred Hansen Photography

The street side view of this custom Shrock Premier cottage is pleasantly deceptive. Upon entering the spacious two story foyer, you immediately notice the fresh, open concept, airy high ceilings, and magnetic lake views which are framed across the back expanse of this lovely home. The custom trim details, paint color, furnishings, and soft textures are refreshing and crisp. This charmer is perfect for just two, with a main level master suite adjoined to a private sitting area and the home is also an ideal destination for family gatherings and festivities with friends. There is not only a bright, beautiful well- appointed kitchen on the main level, but there is also a full kitchen in the basement walk-out level as well. Friends and family will stay in comfort with 4 extra bedrooms, and 4 additional baths. Outside you’ll find a lake view upper deck and a lower walk out patio leading to a cozy fire pit. This serene beach inspired home also features a pool and private dock. The total experience of this Shrock Premier haven is one which brings harmony to the soul. This custom home provides a peaceful place for relaxing, enjoying friends and family, and celebrating the blessings of life. Fred Hansen Photography

Example of a country entryway design in Phoenix

New flooring into master bedroom Now this was a fun project! We had the privilege of stopping out to perform a consultation for this client’s bathroom, and what a project it was! The existing bathroom provided plenty of room for a renovation, but the home owner was a little unsure of exactly what they wanted. They presented us with a wish list, and asked for our advice on how to fit everything into their dream master bathroom. The key factor for the hole project centered around the shower. Number one priority was a spacious, luxurious shower of their dreams. We worked hand in hand with them to provide the perfect layout, which included moving the toilet across the bathroom to make room. The old layout included a shower room that housed the toilet. To provide the biggest possible space, we converted the WHOLE room into one large shower. While the shower size was adequate for the typical home owner, it simply was not what our client wanted. We replace the window with glass block and moved the toilet out of the room. Then we proceeded to install 2 separate shower faucets with diverter valves and slide bar mounted hand-held shower wands The tile our client selected paired perfectly, and provided an eye-popping tiled shower enclosure. The closet was originally sectioned off into 2 rooms with an entrance from not only the bedroom, but also the bathroom. We eliminated this separating to allow a better flow and more storage options. The tub was completed deleted to make room for a longer, more elegant vanity to take its place. Our client liked the idea of continuing water proof vinyl plank flooring from the bathroom through their master bedroom as well. We enjoy all of the projects that we are blessed to participate in. However, there are some that just stand apart from the field. We thoroughly enjoyed bringing this client’s dream to reality, and look forward to them enjoying their dream master bathroom for years to come. Give A+ Home Improvements a call to get your project started today!

Big enough to house a table that will pull out to fit 14 easily, plus an extra table or 2 for more! Views to gaze upon while you dine is another blessing you'll have.

Nestled in a cozy subdivision in the Long Lake area. Full Kitchen remodel with new cabinetry, counter tops, appliances, flooring and back splash tile. Fellow designer, Lee Day, worked closely with our homeowner to master every detail that accommodates the lifestyle of a busy family. Truly blessed to be part of this remodel. Photo Credit to Dan Dinsmore with Belle Photography LLC

Amos Herr Dream Park Water Feature was recently completed. The dream park which will soon be open to the public. Was built by a community of volunteers. Tons of local businesses and residents donated their time and resources to accomplish this amazing build. Pontz was asked to donate our time to build this amazing feature for the kids. We readily excepted and were very excited to get started. Over the course of 2 days the Pontz “pond crew” installed the 26′ long pondless waterfall at the playground. The feature was built with large boulders to withstand the wear. We’re super excited for the park to open. We can’t wait to see the joy on the children’s faces when they get to enjoy their new playground. It is certainly a blessing to be apart of a community that cares and donates their time for a great cause. stay up to date with the Amos Herr Dream Park via their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/amosherrdreampark/ there is still opportunities to contribute: http://www.easthempfield.org/2252/CONTRIBUTE The park is located at 1700 NISSLEY RD LANDISVILLE, PA. 17538 stay tuned to their facebook page to see when the park will be open to the public.

recent kitchen remodel in Chantilly, VA completed by KBF by Audi Contractors with design assistance from Sallie Finney Kjos with Grey Hunt Interiors. As a company we work with a handful of select interior design firms to assist with large scale remolding projects. For this project, Sallie tasked us to create a more efficient kitchen so that her client’s entire family could enjoy for years to come. Our Leesburg Design Team quickly got to work by removing the inefficient walk in pantry and small pony wall next to the old fridge. We decided to move the fridge, range and microwave into spaces that were much more efficient. By removing the cooktop off the island, we were able to create a large prep island that could house 3 stools for her kids to sit and converse while cooking was happening. With Sallies guidance, the client selected products and colors that were inviting and clean. This was definitely a fun project to work on, the client is super excited. We are blessed to have Sallie as a partner and for her awesome clients

The street side view of this custom Shrock Premier cottage is pleasantly deceptive. Upon entering the spacious two story foyer, you immediately notice the fresh, open concept, airy high ceilings, and magnetic lake views which are framed across the back expanse of this lovely home. The custom trim details, paint color, furnishings, and soft textures are refreshing and crisp. This charmer is perfect for just two, with a main level master suite adjoined to a private sitting area and the home is also an ideal destination for family gatherings and festivities with friends. There is not only a bright, beautiful well- appointed kitchen on the main level, but there is also a full kitchen in the basement walk-out level as well. Friends and family will stay in comfort with 4 extra bedrooms, and 4 additional baths. Outside you’ll find a lake view upper deck and a lower walk out patio leading to a cozy fire pit. This serene beach inspired home also features a pool and private dock. The total experience of this Shrock Premier haven is one which brings harmony to the soul. This custom home provides a peaceful place for relaxing, enjoying friends and family, and celebrating the blessings of life. Fred Hansen Photography

Photography: Steve Hall, Hedrich Blessing
Example of a beach style kitchen design in Chicago

You've seen the world, tasted its finest flavors, beheld its proudest splendors. Wanderlust romanced and beauty stayed you. EXPERIENCE THE INTERACTIVE FILM. An Iconic, World-Class Destination Neighbor to the Ritz Carlton and newly built Montage, you're at home with a standard of living consistent with the world's finest resorts. Whether in its days as a private retreat for A-list celebrities or as a home to its discerning designer, Hale Ali'i has always been a generous host. Within the Kapalua resort, your complimentary shuttle drives you and your guests to local restaurants, shops, beaches, and hiking trails. Five-star restaurants, shopping, and world-famous spas call this resort community home. One of America's best surf spots is minutes north while "America's best beach" (Conde Nast Traveler) is a short walk south. The quiet, white sand beach of Oneloa Bay is a single step from your backyard just past the plumeria tree. Inspired Hawaiian Living Tastefully decorated and furnished by world-renowned designer Mary Philpotts, this Hawaiian plantation revival residence accommodates a wide range of tastes – from traditional formal to contemporary casual. Home to a wide range of the world's most coveted woods, luxury finishes, and modern conveniences, the structure is built to exacting standards. From African Sapele Mahogany cabinetry to a myriad of floor-to-ceiling pocket sliding walls, no expense was spared in crafting the finest estate on Maui's coast. Designed according to the timeless principles of feng shui, Hale Ali'i invites nature in, protects on all sides, and honors the elements. Appraised by feng shui expert Kanoe Merino and blessed by Hawaiian native and cultural advisor to the Ritz Carlton, Clifford Nae'ole, this iconic Maui estate brings life, energy, and peace to those who call it home. For Life Abundant In concert with whitewater ocean views, warm fragrant breezes, and the rolling of the Pacific, Hale Ali'i harmonizes luxurious features with a genuine spirit. It's a comfortable place, yet never taken for granted. Each feature, flower, and fauna inspires a spirit of hospitality. Investments in modern conveniences, stately finishes, and ethereal design inspire the life within. An abundant life amongst the world's most magnificent landscape. Designed according to the timeless principles of feng shui, Hale Ali'i invites nature in, protects on all sides, and honors the elements. E Komo Mai, traveler. It's been worth the wait.

This elegant U-shaped staircase rises in a home blessed with mountain views and abundant natural light. Positioned to the right of the front door and adjacent to the panoramic open living space, the staircase features thick natural wood treads and a post-to-post handrail that complement the home's beautiful woodwork throughout. White-painted newels and risers keep the design feeling fresh and bright. A two-floor overlook balcony with matching white railing extends above, creating visual connection between levels while framing views of the surrounding mountains. The result is a staircase that feels both simple and refined, letting the home's natural setting and architectural details take center stage. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This elegant U-shaped staircase rises in a home blessed with mountain views and abundant natural light. Positioned to the right of the front door and adjacent to the panoramic open living space, the staircase features thick natural wood treads and a post-to-post handrail that complement the home's beautiful woodwork throughout. White-painted newels and risers keep the design feeling fresh and bright. A two-floor overlook balcony with matching white railing extends above, creating visual connection between levels while framing views of the surrounding mountains. The result is a staircase that feels both simple and refined, letting the home's natural setting and architectural details take center stage. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

West Town Landmark Renovation, Chicago, IL Design Bridge Ltd., Gabriel Ignacio Dziekiewicz, Designer Blackwood Group, LLC, Contractor Jamie McMullin and Janelle Hoekstra, Owner Photographer: Steve Hall-Hedrich Blessing Victorian Chicago Landmark multi-unit deconversion into single family home. Elaborate Victorian Casings and trim were stripped down and stained dark, while the existing stair and the building fireplaces were restored to a natural oak finish in order to highlight these building features as the house unfolds between living spaces.

Construction - Pivotal Custom, Inc.; Photography - Steve Hall - Hedrich Blessing
Example of an exterior home design in Chicago

A slice of heaven on earth. Our farm is a blessed place to unwind with nature. Photo Credit: Imelda Roberts
Inspiration for a mediterranean home design remodel in DC Metro