HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Virginia Street Residence Omaha, NE Paver Designs, LLC This project was built in two stages. The front patio area was finished for a family wedding, and the driveway was added after the wedding. The driveway was excavated to a depth of 16-18 in. and the patio is 12 in. deep. Crushed recycled concrete was used for the base with one inch of paver sand placed on top. After the concrete pavers were laid, another inch of base was added for the concrete paver areas. Three round seats were built next to the water feature and pebble designs were created in the center of each. Columns for the freestanding wall were designed with recessed areas for lights and for use as planters. Three by six inch concrete pavers were cut in half for the triple border in the narrower areas of the patio. The front paver entrance is gently ramped with no step for handicapped accessibility if the need should arise. Probably the most difficult stage of this project was drawing over 20 diverse designs over the winter months and then making a final selection. Using our basement floor as a drawing board, the "Y" shaped designs were drawn on Masonite at appropriate angles and distances so that the mirrored pairs nearly touched, and a template was made from this. After laying the field of concrete pavers, we marked the mosaic areas with the template. These pavers were cut out one at a time. All of the colored pavers were cut into thirds, and then angles were cut to follow curves. The template was moved and traced twelve times; each triple-row design took eight hours to complete, an approximate total time of 96 house (just) for the mosaic patterns. Many additional hours were spent cutting and installing the fish, triple borders, etc. The pavers in the mosaic, as well as the koi and borders, were coated with corresponding colors of sealer. These colors are amazingly rich and bright, well worth the extra time and effort! The two sets of koi are different as our designs are constantly evolving. A color booster in matte finish was applied to the pavers on the driveway.

This young family was looking to add a family space that took advantage of their private lot but while also serving as the hub for a busy family. The design solution was a family room addition and an open concept living arrangement that connects the dining room and remodeled kitchen. The new south facing glass wall visually connects to the exterior and also serves as a Vitamin D booster in the winter months. Effort was taken to integrate the tv and fireplace so that they don’t dominate the focal point of that wall. The vaulted ceiling allows for a greater sense of space while tying into the midcentury era of the home. To maximize budget, the kitchen cabinets are from IKEA.

The planning phase of this modern retreat was an intense collaboration that took place over the course of more than two years. While the initial design concept exceeded the clients' expectations, it also exceeded their budget beyond the point of comfort. The next several months were spent modifying the design, in attempts to lower the budget. Ultimately, the decision was made that they would hold off on the project until they could budget for the original design, rather than compromising the vision. About a year later, we repeated that same process, which resulted in the same outcome. After another year-long hiatus, we met once again. We revisited design thoughts, each of us bringing to the table new ideas and options. Each thought simply solidified the fact that the initial vision was absolutely what we all wanted to see come to fruition, and the decision was finally made to move forward. The main challenge of the site was elevation. The Southeast corner of the lot stands 5'6" above the threshold of the rear door, while the Northeast corner dropped a full 2' below the threshold of the door. The backyard was also long and narrow, sloping side-to-side and toward the house. The key to the design concept was to deftly place the project into the slope and utilize the elevation changes, without allowing them to dominate the yard, or overwhelm the senses. The unseen challenge on this project came in the form of hitting every underground issue possible. We had to relocate the sewer main, the gas line, and the electrical service; and since rock was sitting about 6" below the surface, all of these had to be chiseled through many feet of dense rock, adding to our projected timeline and budget. As you enter the space, your first stop is an outdoor living area. Smooth finished concrete, colored to match the 'Leuder' limestone coping, has a subtle saw-cut pattern aligned with the edges of the recessed fire pit. In small spaces, it is important to consider a multi-purpose approach. So, the recessed fire pit has been fitted with an aluminum cover that allows our client to set up tables and chairs for entertaining, right over the top of the fire pit. From here, it;s two steps up to the pool elevation, and the floating 'Leuder' limestone stepper pads that lead across the pool and hide the dam wall of the flush spa. The main retaining wall to the Southeast is a poured concrete wall with an integrated sheer descent waterfall into the spa. To bring in some depth and texture, a 'Brownstone' ledgestone was used to face both the dropped beam on the pool, and the raised beam of the water feature wall. The main water feature is comprised of five custom made stainless steel scuppers, supplied by a dedicated booster pump. Colored concrete stepper pads lead to the 'Ipe' wood deck at the far end of the pool. The placement of this wood deck allowed us to minimize our use of retaining walls on the Northeast end of the yard, since it drops off over three feet below the elevation of the pool beam. One of the most unique features on this project has to be the structure over the dining area. With a unique combination of steel and wood, the clean modern aesthetic of this structure creates a visual stamp in the space that standard structure could not accomplish. 4" steel posts, painted charcoal grey, are set on an angle, 4' into the bedrock, to anchor the structure. Steel I-beams painted in green-yellow color--aptly called "frolic"--act as the base to the hefty cedar rafters of the roof structure, which has a slight pitch toward the rear. A hidden gutter on the back of the roof sends water down a copper rain chain, and into the drainage system. The backdrop for both this dining area , as well as the living area, is the horizontal screen panel, created with alternating sizes of cedar planks, stained to a calm hue of dove grey.

Created from a former breezeway this laundry room and mudroom is bright and cheery, Photos by Susan Gilmore
Inspiration for a mid-sized cottage single-wall porcelain tile laundry room remodel in Minneapolis with an utility sink, a side-by-side washer/dryer, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets and quartz countertops

Seth Caplan
Small trendy galley light wood floor kitchen photo in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

AFTER: DINING ROOM | Dining table setup, ready for a dinner party! Plates are silverware are from West Elm | Renovations + Design by Blackband Design | Photography by Tessa Neustadt

robert radifera
Example of a small classic master carpeted bedroom design in DC Metro with blue walls

This young family was looking to add a family space that took advantage of their private lot but while also serving as the hub for a busy family. The design solution was a family room addition and an open concept living arrangement that connects the dining room and remodeled kitchen. The new south facing glass wall visually connects to the exterior and also serves as a Vitamin D booster in the winter months. Effort was taken to integrate the tv and fireplace so that they don’t dominate the focal point of that wall. The vaulted ceiling allows for a greater sense of space while tying into the midcentury era of the home. To maximize budget, the kitchen cabinets are from IKEA.

The planning phase of this modern retreat was an intense collaboration that took place over the course of more than two years. While the initial design concept exceeded the clients' expectations, it also exceeded their budget beyond the point of comfort. The next several months were spent modifying the design, in attempts to lower the budget. Ultimately, the decision was made that they would hold off on the project until they could budget for the original design, rather than compromising the vision. About a year later, we repeated that same process, which resulted in the same outcome. After another year-long hiatus, we met once again. We revisited design thoughts, each of us bringing to the table new ideas and options. Each thought simply solidified the fact that the initial vision was absolutely what we all wanted to see come to fruition, and the decision was finally made to move forward. The main challenge of the site was elevation. The Southeast corner of the lot stands 5'6" above the threshold of the rear door, while the Northeast corner dropped a full 2' below the threshold of the door. The backyard was also long and narrow, sloping side-to-side and toward the house. The key to the design concept was to deftly place the project into the slope and utilize the elevation changes, without allowing them to dominate the yard, or overwhelm the senses. The unseen challenge on this project came in the form of hitting every underground issue possible. We had to relocate the sewer main, the gas line, and the electrical service; and since rock was sitting about 6" below the surface, all of these had to be chiseled through many feet of dense rock, adding to our projected timeline and budget. As you enter the space, your first stop is an outdoor living area. Smooth finished concrete, colored to match the 'Leuder' limestone coping, has a subtle saw-cut pattern aligned with the edges of the recessed fire pit. In small spaces, it is important to consider a multi-purpose approach. So, the recessed fire pit has been fitted with an aluminum cover that allows our client to set up tables and chairs for entertaining, right over the top of the fire pit. From here, it;s two steps up to the pool elevation, and the floating 'Leuder' limestone stepper pads that lead across the pool and hide the dam wall of the flush spa. The main retaining wall to the Southeast is a poured concrete wall with an integrated sheer descent waterfall into the spa. To bring in some depth and texture, a 'Brownstone' ledgestone was used to face both the dropped beam on the pool, and the raised beam of the water feature wall. The main water feature is comprised of five custom made stainless steel scuppers, supplied by a dedicated booster pump. Colored concrete stepper pads lead to the 'Ipe' wood deck at the far end of the pool. The placement of this wood deck allowed us to minimize our use of retaining walls on the Northeast end of the yard, since it drops off over three feet below the elevation of the pool beam. One of the most unique features on this project has to be the structure over the dining area. With a unique combination of steel and wood, the clean modern aesthetic of this structure creates a visual stamp in the space that standard structure could not accomplish. 4" steel posts, painted charcoal grey, are set on an angle, 4' into the bedrock, to anchor the structure. Steel I-beams painted in green-yellow color--aptly called "frolic"--act as the base to the hefty cedar rafters of the roof structure, which has a slight pitch toward the rear. A hidden gutter on the back of the roof sends water down a copper rain chain, and into the drainage system. The backdrop for both this dining area , as well as the living area, is the horizontal screen panel, created with alternating sizes of cedar planks, stained to a calm hue of dove grey.

This side entry is most-used in this busy family home with 4 kids, lots of visitors and a big dog . Re-arranging the space to include an open center Mudroom area, with elbow room for all, was the key. Kids' PR on the left, walk-in pantry next to the Kitchen, and a double door coat closet add to the functional storage. Space planning and cabinetry: Jennifer Howard, JWH Cabinet Installation: JWH Construction Management Photography: Tim Lenz.

Take a look at the newer, bigger Montlake™ 300 wood-burning insert. Stylish and sensible, the Montlake™ 300 fireplace insert from the Country Collection converts any fireplace to an efficient, clean-burning wood heater. Its elegant design features an expansive ceramic glass panel that offers unobstructed views of the fire and enhances the existing fireplace. Each EPA-certified insert comes equipped with IronStrike’s innovative Thermal Fin Technology (TFT™), two built in blowers and a cast iron heat exchanger system that maximizes heat output to quickly deliver warmth to your living space. And with features like the precise one-touch control and smoke-reducing air booster, reliability, efficiency, and technology come together to ensure lasting comfort for your home. Aesthetics Unique, integral airwash system keeps the glass clean and clear for a wide-open view of the fire. Tall opening provides and expansive view of the burning fire. Precision-cut, heavy-gauge steel provides dependable, long-lasting operation. Comfort Innovative Thermal Fin Technology™ (TFT) creates 32% more surface area than a standard design resulting in more heat entering the room. High-density firebrick retains heat, resulting in increased efficiency. 2 standard blowers operate on manual or automatic settings. Heavy-gauge steel Top Warming Surface. EPA-certified and Washington State-approved for clean and efficient operation. Ease of Operation Increased log length to 21”. One-touch control ensures easy operation and comfort. Improved flue connection for easy installation. Design Versatility Decorative door trim in standard Black, Brushed Nickel or Nickel allows customization to your style. Top warming surface with classic cast-iron or solid, heavy-gauge steel options allow for easy customization. Stone Bracket kit. *Square-feet heating capacities are approximations only. Actual performance may vary depending upon home design and insulation, ceiling heights, climate, condition and type of wood used, appliance location, burn rate, accessories chosen, chimney installation and how the appliance is operated.

Example of a small cottage enclosed medium tone wood floor family room design in New York with beige walls, a wall-mounted tv and no fireplace

The planning phase of this modern retreat was an intense collaboration that took place over the course of more than two years. While the initial design concept exceeded the clients' expectations, it also exceeded their budget beyond the point of comfort. The next several months were spent modifying the design, in attempts to lower the budget. Ultimately, the decision was made that they would hold off on the project until they could budget for the original design, rather than compromising the vision. About a year later, we repeated that same process, which resulted in the same outcome. After another year-long hiatus, we met once again. We revisited design thoughts, each of us bringing to the table new ideas and options. Each thought simply solidified the fact that the initial vision was absolutely what we all wanted to see come to fruition, and the decision was finally made to move forward. The main challenge of the site was elevation. The Southeast corner of the lot stands 5'6" above the threshold of the rear door, while the Northeast corner dropped a full 2' below the threshold of the door. The backyard was also long and narrow, sloping side-to-side and toward the house. The key to the design concept was to deftly place the project into the slope and utilize the elevation changes, without allowing them to dominate the yard, or overwhelm the senses. The unseen challenge on this project came in the form of hitting every underground issue possible. We had to relocate the sewer main, the gas line, and the electrical service; and since rock was sitting about 6" below the surface, all of these had to be chiseled through many feet of dense rock, adding to our projected timeline and budget. As you enter the space, your first stop is an outdoor living area. Smooth finished concrete, colored to match the 'Leuder' limestone coping, has a subtle saw-cut pattern aligned with the edges of the recessed fire pit. In small spaces, it is important to consider a multi-purpose approach. So, the recessed fire pit has been fitted with an aluminum cover that allows our client to set up tables and chairs for entertaining, right over the top of the fire pit. From here, it;s two steps up to the pool elevation, and the floating 'Leuder' limestone stepper pads that lead across the pool and hide the dam wall of the flush spa. The main retaining wall to the Southeast is a poured concrete wall with an integrated sheer descent waterfall into the spa. To bring in some depth and texture, a 'Brownstone' ledgestone was used to face both the dropped beam on the pool, and the raised beam of the water feature wall. The main water feature is comprised of five custom made stainless steel scuppers, supplied by a dedicated booster pump. Colored concrete stepper pads lead to the 'Ipe' wood deck at the far end of the pool. The placement of this wood deck allowed us to minimize our use of retaining walls on the Northeast end of the yard, since it drops off over three feet below the elevation of the pool beam. One of the most unique features on this project has to be the structure over the dining area. With a unique combination of steel and wood, the clean modern aesthetic of this structure creates a visual stamp in the space that standard structure could not accomplish. 4" steel posts, painted charcoal grey, are set on an angle, 4' into the bedrock, to anchor the structure. Steel I-beams painted in green-yellow color--aptly called "frolic"--act as the base to the hefty cedar rafters of the roof structure, which has a slight pitch toward the rear. A hidden gutter on the back of the roof sends water down a copper rain chain, and into the drainage system. The backdrop for both this dining area , as well as the living area, is the horizontal screen panel, created with alternating sizes of cedar planks, stained to a calm hue of dove grey.

Stylish and sensible, the Montlake™ 230 fireplace insert from the Country Collection converts any fireplace to an efficient, clean-burning wood heater. Its elegant design features an expansive ceramic glass panel that offers unobstructed views of the fire and enhances the existing fireplace. Each EPA-certified insert comes equipped with IronStrike's innovative Thermal Fin Technology (TFT™), a cast iron heat exchanger system that maximizes heat output to quickly deliver warmth to your living space. And with features like the Montlake's precise one-touch control and smoke-reducing air booster, reliability, efficiency, and technology come together to ensure lasting comfort for your home. Aesthetics Unique, integral airwash system keeps the glass clean and clear for a wide-open view of the fire. Tall opening provides and expansive view of the burning fire. Precision-cut, heavy-gauge steel provides dependable, long-lasting operation. Comfort Innovative Thermal Fin Technology™ (TFT) creates 32% more surface area than a standard design resulting in more heat entering the room. High-density firebrick retains heat, resulting in increased efficiency. Optional 150-CFM variable-speed blower quickly moves heat from the stove into your room. EPA-certified and Washington State-approved for clean and efficient operation. Ease of Operation One-touch control ensures easy operation and comfort. Design Versatility Decorative door trim in standard Black, Brushed Nickel or Nickel allows customization to your style. Top warming surface with classic cast-iron or solid, heavy-gauge steel options allow for easy customization. *Square-feet heating capacities are approximations only. Actual performance may vary depending upon home design and insulation, ceiling heights, climate, condition and type of wood used, appliance location, burn rate, accessories chosen, chimney installation and how the appliance is operated.

Photo: Hilary Walker © 2013 Houzz
Playroom - contemporary playroom idea in Dallas

HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Virginia Street Residence Omaha, NE Paver Designs, LLC This project was built in two stages. The front patio area was finished for a family wedding, and the driveway was added after the wedding. The driveway was excavated to a depth of 16-18 in. and the patio is 12 in. deep. Crushed recycled concrete was used for the base with one inch of paver sand placed on top. After the concrete pavers were laid, another inch of base was added for the concrete paver areas. Three round seats were built next to the water feature and pebble designs were created in the center of each. Columns for the freestanding wall were designed with recessed areas for lights and for use as planters. Three by six inch concrete pavers were cut in half for the triple border in the narrower areas of the patio. The front paver entrance is gently ramped with no step for handicapped accessibility if the need should arise. Probably the most difficult stage of this project was drawing over 20 diverse designs over the winter months and then making a final selection. Using our basement floor as a drawing board, the "Y" shaped designs were drawn on Masonite at appropriate angles and distances so that the mirrored pairs nearly touched, and a template was made from this. After laying the field of concrete pavers, we marked the mosaic areas with the template. These pavers were cut out one at a time. All of the colored pavers were cut into thirds, and then angles were cut to follow curves. The template was moved and traced twelve times; each triple-row design took eight hours to complete, an approximate total time of 96 house (just) for the mosaic patterns. Many additional hours were spent cutting and installing the fish, triple borders, etc. The pavers in the mosaic, as well as the koi and borders, were coated with corresponding colors of sealer. These colors are amazingly rich and bright, well worth the extra time and effort! The two sets of koi are different as our designs are constantly evolving. A color booster in matte finish was applied to the pavers on the driveway.

Antique Coastal farmhouse laundry room with floating shelves, quartz counters, wall mounted drying rack and custom storage cabinet. Rustic casual style.

Kirsten Coffen
This is an example of a traditional landscaping in Baltimore.

Carlos Domenech
Example of a large trendy gender-neutral medium tone wood floor and beige floor kids' room design in Miami with white walls