We always say that a powder room is the “gift” you give to the guests in your home; a special detail here and there, a touch of color added, and the space becomes a delight! This custom beauty, completed in January 2020, was carefully crafted through many construction drawings and meetings. We intentionally created a shallower depth along both sides of the sink area in order to accommodate the location of the door openings. (The right side of the image leads to the foyer, while the left leads to a closet water closet room.) We even had the casing/trim applied after the countertop was installed in order to bring the marble in one piece! Setting the height of the wall faucet and wall outlet for the exposed P-Trap meant careful calculation and precise templating along the way, with plenty of interior construction drawings. But for such detail, it was well worth it. From the book-matched miter on our black and white marble, to the wall mounted faucet in matte black, each design element is chosen to play off of the stacked metallic wall tile and scones. Our homeowners were thrilled with the results, and we think their guests are too!

The Heritage Classic is a custom natural wood carriage style garage door by Northwest Door. It features Luan plywood panels, a Western Red Cedar cross buck ovelay, and (TDL) true divided lite windows arched to match the door opening. Door is 2 ¼” thick, insulated with Expanded Polystrene and has a calculated r value of 6.18 . Door finish by builder.

This picture clearly shows the 2 work zones, one on each side of the 60-40 double sink. Both work zones score well in a traditional "kitchen work triangle" calculation, providing generous work space with easy access to sink, stove, and refrigerator. The work zone on the right ends at the induction range — a good cooking choice both for cooking and for family members sitting at peninsula, because induction hobs don't get as hot as the more common coil, iron grate, or glass ceramic hobs. The area left of the sink is the second work zone. Its proximity to the dining room lets it do double duty as a serving zone.

This staircase is a “curved” staircase design and is an example of highly specialized woodwork. The challenge with this curved wall was to use something that would be flexible enough to build into the curve. We settled on doing “Judges Panels.” “Judges Panels” are created with a “stacked box” look from the floor (or from the steps in this case) to the ceiling. Panel molding was used to build the box frames because it’s flexible enough to make those curves. The calculations necessary to make the boxes or frames and to make the cuts is where a highly skilled craftsman is separated from a regular trim carpenter. The process required two full days just to mark up the wall to visually set up how it was to be laid out. Then another two full days were needed to cut each frame and nail it to the wall. Every cut was absolutely perfect. Once all the woodwork was completed, the panel wall was sprayed with white enamel to give it the look of a full wood wall. The end result was stunning.

This staircase is a “curved” staircase design and is an example of highly specialized woodwork. The challenge with this curved wall was to use something that would be flexible enough to build into the curve. We settled on doing “Judges Panels.” “Judges Panels” are created with a “stacked box” look from the floor (or from the steps in this case) to the ceiling. Panel molding was used to build the box frames because it’s flexible enough to make those curves. The calculations necessary to make the boxes or frames and to make the cuts is where a highly skilled craftsman is separated from a regular trim carpenter. The process required two full days just to mark up the wall to visually set up how it was to be laid out. Then another two full days were needed to cut each frame and nail it to the wall. Every cut was absolutely perfect. Once all the woodwork was completed, the panel wall was sprayed with white enamel to give it the look of a full wood wall. The end result was stunning.

We use self cleaning, pressure compensating dripperline rings around each plant to insure even watering around the entire root zone. Each emitter puts out ½ gallon per hour, so we can calculate the total capacity of each valve. Never use adjustable emitters, because you have no idea how much water they are demanding, or whether your system can provide it. When the plants are young, the tubing is coiled right over the root ball, and also around its perimeter to encourage root growth. As the plants mature, the rings are opened to accommodate the larger root ball.

The natural stone wall and calculated elevation changes along the backyard’s perimeter provide aesthetic appeal and discreet water drainage solutions away from the house and outdoor living areas. The couple has since been enjoying their splendid sanctuary, now a welcoming retreat for cooling off on hot days, grilling favorite foods and spending time outdoors with guests. Photo courtesy of Markline Photography

I was initially contacted by the builder and architect working on this Modern European Cottage to review the property and home design before construction began. Once the clients and I had the opportunity to meet and discuss what their visions were for the property, I started working on their wish list of items, which included a custom concrete pool, concrete spa, patios/walkways, custom fencing, and wood structures. One of the largest challenges was that this property had a 30% (or less) hardcover surface requirement for the city location. With the lot size and square footage of the home I had limits to how much hardcover we could add to property. So, I had to get creative. We presented to the city the usage of the Live Green Roof plantings that would reduce the hardcover calculations for the site. Also, if we kept space between the Laurel Sandstones walkways, using them as steppers and planting groundcover or lawn between the stones that would also reduce the hard surface calculations. We continued that theme with the back patio as well. The client’s esthetic leaned towards the minimal style, so by adding greenery between stones work esthetically. I chose the Laurel Tumbled Sandstone for the charm and character and thought it would lend well to the old world feel of this Modern European Cottage. We installed it on all the stone walkways, steppers, and patios around the home and pool. I had several meetings with the client to discuss/review perennials, shrubs, and tree selections. Plant color and texture of the planting material were equally important to the clients when choosing. We grouped the plantings together and did not over-mix varieties of plants. Ultimately, we chose a variety of styles from natural groups of plantings to a touch of formal style, which all work cohesively together. The custom fence design and installation was designed to create a cottage “country” feel. They gave us inspiration of a country style fence that you may find on a farm to keep the animals inside. We took those photos and ideas and elevated the design. We used a combination of cedar wood and sandwich the galvanized mesh between it. The fence also creates a space for the clients two dogs to roam freely around their property. We installed sod on the inside of the fence to the home and seeded the remaining areas with a Low Gro Fescue grass seed with a straw blanket for protection. The minimal European style custom concrete pool was designed to be lined up in view from the porch and inside the home. The client requested the lawn around the edge of the pool, which helped reduce the hardcover calculations. The concrete spa is open year around. Benches are on all four sides of the spa to create enough seating for the whole family to use at the same time. Mortared field stone on the exterior of the spa mimics the stone on the exterior of the home. The spa equipment is installed in the lower level of the home to protect it from the cold winter weather. Between the garage and the home’s entry is a pea rock sitting area and is viewed from several windows. I wanted it to be a quiet escape from the rest of the house with the minimal design. The Skyline Locust tree planted in the center of the space creates a canopy and softens the side of garage wall from the window views. The client will be installing a small water feature along the garage for serene noise ambience. The client had very thoughtful design ideas styles, and our collaborations all came together and worked well to create the landscape design/installation. The result was everything they had dreamed of and more for their Modern European Cottage home and property.

This staircase is a “curved” staircase design and is an example of highly specialized woodwork. The challenge with this curved wall was to use something that would be flexible enough to build into the curve. We settled on doing “Judges Panels.” “Judges Panels” are created with a “stacked box” look from the floor (or from the steps in this case) to the ceiling. Panel molding was used to build the box frames because it’s flexible enough to make those curves. The calculations necessary to make the boxes or frames and to make the cuts is where a highly skilled craftsman is separated from a regular trim carpenter. The process required two full days just to mark up the wall to visually set up how it was to be laid out. Then another two full days were needed to cut each frame and nail it to the wall. Every cut was absolutely perfect. Once all the woodwork was completed, the panel wall was sprayed with white enamel to give it the look of a full wood wall. The end result was stunning.

Family room - transitional enclosed family room idea in Chicago with white walls, a standard fireplace, a tile fireplace and a media wall

This staircase is a “curved” staircase design and is an example of highly specialized woodwork. The challenge with this curved wall was to use something that would be flexible enough to build into the curve. We settled on doing “Judges Panels.” “Judges Panels” are created with a “stacked box” look from the floor (or from the steps in this case) to the ceiling. Panel molding was used to build the box frames because it’s flexible enough to make those curves. The calculations necessary to make the boxes or frames and to make the cuts is where a highly skilled craftsman is separated from a regular trim carpenter. The process required two full days just to mark up the wall to visually set up how it was to be laid out. Then another two full days were needed to cut each frame and nail it to the wall. Every cut was absolutely perfect. Once all the woodwork was completed, the panel wall was sprayed with white enamel to give it the look of a full wood wall. The end result was stunning.

I was initially contacted by the builder and architect working on this Modern European Cottage to review the property and home design before construction began. Once the clients and I had the opportunity to meet and discuss what their visions were for the property, I started working on their wish list of items, which included a custom concrete pool, concrete spa, patios/walkways, custom fencing, and wood structures. One of the largest challenges was that this property had a 30% (or less) hardcover surface requirement for the city location. With the lot size and square footage of the home I had limits to how much hardcover we could add to property. So, I had to get creative. We presented to the city the usage of the Live Green Roof plantings that would reduce the hardcover calculations for the site. Also, if we kept space between the Laurel Sandstones walkways, using them as steppers and planting groundcover or lawn between the stones that would also reduce the hard surface calculations. We continued that theme with the back patio as well. The client’s esthetic leaned towards the minimal style, so by adding greenery between stones work esthetically. I chose the Laurel Tumbled Sandstone for the charm and character and thought it would lend well to the old world feel of this Modern European Cottage. We installed it on all the stone walkways, steppers, and patios around the home and pool. I had several meetings with the client to discuss/review perennials, shrubs, and tree selections. Plant color and texture of the planting material were equally important to the clients when choosing. We grouped the plantings together and did not over-mix varieties of plants. Ultimately, we chose a variety of styles from natural groups of plantings to a touch of formal style, which all work cohesively together. The custom fence design and installation was designed to create a cottage “country” feel. They gave us inspiration of a country style fence that you may find on a farm to keep the animals inside. We took those photos and ideas and elevated the design. We used a combination of cedar wood and sandwich the galvanized mesh between it. The fence also creates a space for the clients two dogs to roam freely around their property. We installed sod on the inside of the fence to the home and seeded the remaining areas with a Low Gro Fescue grass seed with a straw blanket for protection. The minimal European style custom concrete pool was designed to be lined up in view from the porch and inside the home. The client requested the lawn around the edge of the pool, which helped reduce the hardcover calculations. The concrete spa is open year around. Benches are on all four sides of the spa to create enough seating for the whole family to use at the same time. Mortared field stone on the exterior of the spa mimics the stone on the exterior of the home. The spa equipment is installed in the lower level of the home to protect it from the cold winter weather. Between the garage and the home’s entry is a pea rock sitting area and is viewed from several windows. I wanted it to be a quiet escape from the rest of the house with the minimal design. The Skyline Locust tree planted in the center of the space creates a canopy and softens the side of garage wall from the window views. The client will be installing a small water feature along the garage for serene noise ambience. The client had very thoughtful design ideas styles, and our collaborations all came together and worked well to create the landscape design/installation. The result was everything they had dreamed of and more for their Modern European Cottage home and property.

This staircase is a “curved” staircase design and is an example of highly specialized woodwork. The challenge with this curved wall was to use something that would be flexible enough to build into the curve. We settled on doing “Judges Panels.” “Judges Panels” are created with a “stacked box” look from the floor (or from the steps in this case) to the ceiling. Panel molding was used to build the box frames because it’s flexible enough to make those curves. The calculations necessary to make the boxes or frames and to make the cuts is where a highly skilled craftsman is separated from a regular trim carpenter. The process required two full days just to mark up the wall to visually set up how it was to be laid out. Then another two full days were needed to cut each frame and nail it to the wall. Every cut was absolutely perfect. Once all the woodwork was completed, the panel wall was sprayed with white enamel to give it the look of a full wood wall. The end result was stunning.

Believe it or not, this award-winning home began as a speculative project. Typically speculative projects involve a rather generic design that would appeal to many in a style that might be loved by the masses. But the project’s developer loved modern architecture and his personal residence was the first project designed by architect C.P. Drewett when Drewett Works launched in 2001. Together, the architect and developer envisioned a fictitious art collector who would one day purchase this stunning piece of desert modern architecture to showcase their magnificent collection. The primary views from the site were southwest. Therefore, protecting the interior spaces from the southwest sun while making the primary views available was the greatest challenge. The views were very calculated and carefully managed. Every room needed to not only capture the vistas of the surrounding desert, but also provide viewing spaces for the potential collection to be housed within its walls. The core of the material palette is utilitarian including exposed masonry and locally quarried cantera stone. An organic nature was added to the project through millwork selections including walnut and red gum veneers. The eventual owners saw immediately that this could indeed become a home for them as well as their magnificent collection, of which pieces are loaned out to museums around the world. Their decision to purchase the home was based on the dimensions of one particular wall in the dining room which was EXACTLY large enough for one particular painting not yet displayed due to its size. The owners and this home were, as the saying goes, a perfect match! Project Details | Desert Modern for the Magnificent Collection, Estancia, Scottsdale, AZ Architecture: C.P. Drewett, Jr., AIA, NCARB | Drewett Works, Scottsdale, AZ Builder: Shannon Construction | Phoenix, AZ Interior Selections: Janet Bilotti, NCIDQ, ASID | Naples, FL Custom Millwork: Linear Fine Woodworking | Scottsdale, AZ Photography: Dino Tonn | Scottsdale, AZ Awards: 2014 Gold Nugget Award of Merit Feature Article: Luxe. Interiors and Design. Winter 2015, “Lofty Exposure”

Home office library - mid-sized transitional freestanding desk vinyl floor home office library idea in Dallas with beige walls

Serving as a winter retreat for a family of world travelers, a thoughtfully composed program of calm, comforting spaces imbuing casual elegance is presented effortlessly in the landscape. Oriented around a central grand oak and its adjacent loblolly pine, the home wraps around them, celebrating the engagement of nature while maintaining privacy from neighboring homes. Working within height restrictions intended to keep massing as low to the ground as possible, we moved the ground plane up and the expression down to present an appearance of a home that lives low. Calculated plays on scale and proportion intentionally have different effects from different vantage points, ensuring the viewer perceives the architecture as humanly scaled from each important introduction to the home. Ascending a landscape stair that winds around the central oak and extends into the entry vitrine sitting at base flood, the entry foyer operates at two scales as limestone stairs matching the exterior ascend between walls passing portals that reveal limited views of activity within. 2022 Design + Service Awards Jury Citation for Residential New Construction, AIA Charleston

Photo: Louis Cook for the Philadelphia Water Department, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-2.0 Generic

Serving as a winter retreat for a family of world travelers, a thoughtfully composed program of calm, comforting spaces imbuing casual elegance is presented effortlessly in the landscape. Oriented around a central grand oak and its adjacent loblolly pine, the home wraps around them, celebrating the engagement of nature while maintaining privacy from neighboring homes. Working within height restrictions intended to keep massing as low to the ground as possible, we moved the ground plane up and the expression down to present an appearance of a home that lives low. Calculated plays on scale and proportion intentionally have different effects from different vantage points, ensuring the viewer perceives the architecture as humanly scaled from each important introduction to the home. Ascending a landscape stair that winds around the central oak and extends into the entry vitrine sitting at base flood, the entry foyer operates at two scales as limestone stairs matching the exterior ascend between walls passing portals that reveal limited views of activity within. 2022 Design + Service Awards Jury Citation for Residential New Construction, AIA Charleston

Serving as a winter retreat for a family of world travelers, a thoughtfully composed program of calm, comforting spaces imbuing casual elegance is presented effortlessly in the landscape. Oriented around a central grand oak and its adjacent loblolly pine, the home wraps around them, celebrating the engagement of nature while maintaining privacy from neighboring homes. Working within height restrictions intended to keep massing as low to the ground as possible, we moved the ground plane up and the expression down to present an appearance of a home that lives low. Calculated plays on scale and proportion intentionally have different effects from different vantage points, ensuring the viewer perceives the architecture as humanly scaled from each important introduction to the home. Ascending a landscape stair that winds around the central oak and extends into the entry vitrine sitting at base flood, the entry foyer operates at two scales as limestone stairs matching the exterior ascend between walls passing portals that reveal limited views of activity within. 2022 Design + Service Awards Jury Citation for Residential New Construction, AIA Charleston