Search results for "Calculating" in Home Design Ideas

Mid-sized elegant formal and enclosed living room photo with red walls, no fireplace and no tv

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”

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”
Find the right local pro for your project

SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and eco-veneer coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
The Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC presents the perfect solution for anyone seeking a sleek, modern interior door that combines style and functionality. The Modern Single Interior door features a solid core, providing superior soundproofing and insulation, and is made from high-quality wood that ensures durability and longevity.
This particular model is finished in a crisp, clean white color that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. The full clear glass layout is a unique feature that allows for the passage of natural light, brightening up even the darkest of spaces.
One of the best things about this product is the various hinge options available, which allows for easy customization and installation. Whether you prefer a standard hinge or a concealed one, the Lucia collection has got you covered.
With its stunning design and top-notch construction, the Modern Single Interior door from Custom Doors NYC is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of style and sophistication to their home or office. Whether you're renovating an existing space or building a new one, this product is sure to impress.
So if you're looking for a high-quality interior door that combines style, functionality, and versatility, look no further than the Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC. With its solid core, white finish, full clear glass layout, and various hinge options, this product is sure to meet all your needs and exceed your expectations.

Of course, he credits IKD’s certified designers for guidance during the process as well as his own research.
“We used design Web sites like HOUZZ to help inform our decision about using IKD, for tips about installation techniques, and for suggestions about how to overcome installation challenges. HOUZZ was the most regular online resource we used throughout our design and installation process,” he says.
Notably, Adam did not set a budget. Rather, he did calculations during the planning stages to know what price range he was comfortable with for his IKEA purchases.
“We even went up a level on our cabinets when saw the first revision of our design from IKD. The change was financially feasible for us and we were happy with the final estimate on our design. When we ended up purchasing our cabinets, the estimate and final cost were very close to each other,” he says.
Rounding out the product lineup are an IKEA NUTID microwave; Samsung stainless steel appliances; luxury vinyl flooring (that was installed ahead of the kitchen) and granite countertops from a local third-party, non-IKEA affiliated vendor.
“We did not hire a cabinet installer and I proudly state that we did it ourselves” he concludes.
For Adam, the previous kitchen was drab, outdated and completely inefficient with narrow passageways around the refrigerator and previous island.
Therefore, he discovered that IKEA cabinetry was ideal from a style and budget standpoint for his kitchen remodel.
“We were impressed with the quality of the cabinets at the price point. We were also able to plan well in advance of IKEA’s Spring kitchen sale to enable us to purchase our cabinets at a lower price point,” he says.
To that end, the IKEA BODBYN Off White cabinetry runs along the upper perimeter of the kitchen, from the Samsung refrigerator, over the stainless steel stove and above the sink and granite countertops.

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com
2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner
Category: Residential $60,000-$120,000
Award Level: Silver
Project Description:
We were contracted by the family to create a master plan for the property. They
were experiencing extreme drainage and erosion problems due to the surrounding properties’
drastic grade changes. Erosion had caused the rear lawn to sink in various areas and the existing
rear patio spaces were failing. The client wanted to rebuild their patios and walkways, repave
their driveway and give their home more visual appeal. Most importantly, they wanted an
environmentally friendly solution.
Our design solution was to create a rain garden that would slow storm water runoff, allow
for percolation, and promote infiltration, while permitting excess clean water to enter the storm
drain at the street with slower velocity. The rain garden acts as a temporary holding space that
allows the earth to slowly absorb water, rather than overwhelm the nearby storm drain. Our first
objective was to conduct a percolation test to determine the amount of clay soil that needed to be
removed before reaching the sandy loam layer. A percolation test and storm water calculations
were generated to accommodate a 1” rain event. Based on our calculations and the small size of
the property, we determined a depth of 18” was necessary for optimal holding capacity. We
removed 18” of clay soil until a layer of sandy loam was encountered. Next, the soil was amended
with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media for the basin of the garden. We
piped the three existing rear downspouts to the rain garden area to capture for infiltration and
alleviate runoff throughout the rear lawn and patio space. We installed an 18” wide over-flow
standpipe at a 24” depth into the ground that outlets to a stone swale that carries the water to the
property edge. As an added means of holding the maximum amount of water, we designed the
standpipe to sit 14” above grade. The height of this standpipe allows this rain garden to capture
14” of water before reaching the overflow capacity. We placed geotextile fabric to help reduce
migration of the stones into the soil and aid in the prevention of weeds and erosion. We heavily
planted the rain garden to further aid in absorption and to attract local wildlife. A native plant
palette of butterfly weed, Panicum, Joe-Pye weed, and asters form a colorful backdrop while the
basin was filled with obligate wetland plants such as royal ferns, irises and cardinal flowers. The
upper edges in the foreground are planted with Echinacea, Rudbeckia and Monarda, satisfying
the local bird community and adding bright seasonal colors. This garden effectively collects and
cleanses rainwater while creating a habitat for birds, frogs, and butterflies.
Our next challenge was to redesign the existing patios and walkways without increasing
impervious surfaces. According to township regulations this property was currently at its
maximum capacity, therefore we designed the front and rear patios with a slightly smaller
footprint to decrease their existing impervious surfaces.
New planting beds were designed throughout the entire property. Plants were chosen that
were tolerant of specific site conditions. For the rear yard, we choose a backdrop of witch hazel
and hollies to provide an evergreen screen as well as early spring color. We placed hydrangea
throughout to add summer color. We planted ostrich fern under the existing spruce tree to create
a lush floor. This area became an additional backdrop for the rain garden as well as a screen for
the neighboring property. We choose a combination of ‘Blue Star’ juniper and creeping jenny to
soften the existing rear wall with creepers. Around the rear patio areas we choose a combination
of Liatris, Rudbeckia and ‘Lo and Behold’ butterfly bush. This combination of plants works in
harmony with the rain garden and attracts additional butterflies.
For the front of the property we worked with an existing Japanese maple that provided
dense shade. We choose a shade-tolerant combination of Heuchera, Astilbe, ferns and hostas for
this area. We added more hydrangeas to the front foundation of the house to provide lush
layering of plant material and visual interest with additional summer blooms.
Overall, we were able to exceed the client’s needs and expectations in transforming their
property into a colorful paradise that attracts wildlife from season to season. The plant palette
provides seasonal interest and the rain garden has successfully decreased storm water runoff.
The new hardscape surfaces were designed and built with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease
impervious surfaces. This project is a positive example of how all properties, regardless of size,
can make an ecological difference by decreasing impervious surfaces and maintaining proper
storm water management.
Photo Credit:
Terren Landscapes

SET INCLUDES:
2 Pre-finished Slabs with Aluminum Strips
Casings (width 2.95)
Jambs (for wall thickness up to 5 1/2)
Butterfly hinges
Passage modern levers in Satin Nickel
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame. Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2; door height + 1.25. .
Flat Slabs with Aluminum Strips, thickness 1 9/16 .
Finish - eco-veneer RENOLIT (Germany). It is not recommended to paint.
Please let us know if you need the extensions for the jamb.
Introducing our exquisite collection of Modern French Doors, designed to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your living space. These doors are made of high-quality wood with a solid core construction, ensuring durability and longevity.
The matte black finish of the doors adds a contemporary feel, making them a perfect fit for modern homes. These doors come in the Lucia collection, named after the patron saint of light. The Lucia collection is inspired by the idea of illuminating spaces with natural light, and the full lite clear glass design of these doors perfectly captures this concept.
The full lite clear glass design allows natural light to flood your interiors, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The glass panels are of the highest quality, providing maximum clarity and visibility, and allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Our Modern French Doors come with various hinge options, making them easy to install and customize to your needs. They are versatile and can be used in any room, from the living room to the bedroom, and even in the kitchen or bathroom.
Invest in our Modern French Doors today and add a touch of luxury and style to your home. These doors are a perfect addition to any home and provide a functional and stylish solution for your interior design needs. With their elegant design and superior quality, our modern French doors will transform your space into a sophisticated and inviting retreat.

SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and eco-veneer coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
The Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC presents the perfect solution for anyone seeking a sleek, modern interior door that combines style and functionality. The Modern Single Interior door features a solid core, providing superior soundproofing and insulation, and is made from high-quality wood that ensures durability and longevity.
This particular model is finished in a crisp, clean white color that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. The full clear glass layout is a unique feature that allows for the passage of natural light, brightening up even the darkest of spaces.
One of the best things about this product is the various hinge options available, which allows for easy customization and installation. Whether you prefer a standard hinge or a concealed one, the Lucia collection has got you covered.
With its stunning design and top-notch construction, the Modern Single Interior door from Custom Doors NYC is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of style and sophistication to their home or office. Whether you're renovating an existing space or building a new one, this product is sure to impress.
So if you're looking for a high-quality interior door that combines style, functionality, and versatility, look no further than the Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC. With its solid core, white finish, full clear glass layout, and various hinge options, this product is sure to meet all your needs and exceed your expectations.

Planum 0770 Painted White Matte Description
SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and painted white coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
Introducing the Modern Single Interior Door by Planum - a stunning addition to any home or office space. Made with a solid core and high-quality wood, these doors are built to last while adding a touch of modern elegance to any interior.
The sleek white color and flush door design create a seamless and streamlined look that is both contemporary and sophisticated. The horizontal grooves add an extra layer of interest and texture, making these doors a statement piece in any room. The Planum collection is known for its superior quality, and these doors are no exception.
At Planum, we understand that every interior space is unique, which is why we offer a range of customizable options to suit your specific needs. We offer various hinge options, so you can choose the perfect one for your door.
The Modern Single Interior Door is perfect for anyone looking for new york interior doors that offer both form and function. Whether you're looking to create a cohesive and modern feel throughout your space or just need a stylish and functional door, these doors are an excellent option.
In summary, the Modern Single Interior Door by Planum is a great investment for anyone looking for high-quality, stylish interior doors in New York. Their solid construction, elegant design, and customizable options make them the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create a modern and sophisticated interior space. Order yours today and transform your home or office with the Planum collection!

SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and eco-veneer coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
The Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC presents the perfect solution for anyone seeking a sleek, modern interior door that combines style and functionality. The Modern Single Interior door features a solid core, providing superior soundproofing and insulation, and is made from high-quality wood that ensures durability and longevity.
This particular model is finished in a crisp, clean white color that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. The full clear glass layout is a unique feature that allows for the passage of natural light, brightening up even the darkest of spaces.
One of the best things about this product is the various hinge options available, which allows for easy customization and installation. Whether you prefer a standard hinge or a concealed one, the Lucia collection has got you covered.
With its stunning design and top-notch construction, the Modern Single Interior door from Custom Doors NYC is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of style and sophistication to their home or office. Whether you're renovating an existing space or building a new one, this product is sure to impress.
So if you're looking for a high-quality interior door that combines style, functionality, and versatility, look no further than the Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC. With its solid core, white finish, full clear glass layout, and various hinge options, this product is sure to meet all your needs and exceed your expectations.

SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and eco-veneer coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
The Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC presents the perfect solution for anyone seeking a sleek, modern interior door that combines style and functionality. The Modern Single Interior door features a solid core, providing superior soundproofing and insulation, and is made from high-quality wood that ensures durability and longevity.
This particular model is finished in a crisp, clean white color that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. The full clear glass layout is a unique feature that allows for the passage of natural light, brightening up even the darkest of spaces.
One of the best things about this product is the various hinge options available, which allows for easy customization and installation. Whether you prefer a standard hinge or a concealed one, the Lucia collection has got you covered.
With its stunning design and top-notch construction, the Modern Single Interior door from Custom Doors NYC is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of style and sophistication to their home or office. Whether you're renovating an existing space or building a new one, this product is sure to impress.
So if you're looking for a high-quality interior door that combines style, functionality, and versatility, look no further than the Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC. With its solid core, white finish, full clear glass layout, and various hinge options, this product is sure to meet all your needs and exceed your expectations.

SET INCLUDES:
2 Pre-finished Slabs with Aluminum Strips
Casings (width 2.95)
Jambs (for wall thickness up to 5 1/2)
Butterfly hinges
Passage modern levers in Satin Nickel
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame. Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2; door height + 1.25. .
Flat Slabs with Aluminum Strips, thickness 1 9/16 .
Finish - eco-veneer RENOLIT (Germany). It is not recommended to paint.
Please let us know if you need the extensions for the jamb.
Introducing our exquisite collection of Modern French Doors, designed to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your living space. These doors are made of high-quality wood with a solid core construction, ensuring durability and longevity.
The matte black finish of the doors adds a contemporary feel, making them a perfect fit for modern homes. These doors come in the Lucia collection, named after the patron saint of light. The Lucia collection is inspired by the idea of illuminating spaces with natural light, and the full lite clear glass design of these doors perfectly captures this concept.
The full lite clear glass design allows natural light to flood your interiors, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The glass panels are of the highest quality, providing maximum clarity and visibility, and allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Our Modern French Doors come with various hinge options, making them easy to install and customize to your needs. They are versatile and can be used in any room, from the living room to the bedroom, and even in the kitchen or bathroom.
Invest in our Modern French Doors today and add a touch of luxury and style to your home. These doors are a perfect addition to any home and provide a functional and stylish solution for your interior design needs. With their elegant design and superior quality, our modern French doors will transform your space into a sophisticated and inviting retreat.

SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and eco-veneer coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
The Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC presents the perfect solution for anyone seeking a sleek, modern interior door that combines style and functionality. The Modern Single Interior door features a solid core, providing superior soundproofing and insulation, and is made from high-quality wood that ensures durability and longevity.
This particular model is finished in a crisp, clean white color that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. The full clear glass layout is a unique feature that allows for the passage of natural light, brightening up even the darkest of spaces.
One of the best things about this product is the various hinge options available, which allows for easy customization and installation. Whether you prefer a standard hinge or a concealed one, the Lucia collection has got you covered.
With its stunning design and top-notch construction, the Modern Single Interior door from Custom Doors NYC is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of style and sophistication to their home or office. Whether you're renovating an existing space or building a new one, this product is sure to impress.
So if you're looking for a high-quality interior door that combines style, functionality, and versatility, look no further than the Lucia collection from Custom Doors NYC. With its solid core, white finish, full clear glass layout, and various hinge options, this product is sure to meet all your needs and exceed your expectations.

Planum 0770 Painted White Matte Description
SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and painted white coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
Introducing the Modern Single Interior Door by Planum - a stunning addition to any home or office space. Made with a solid core and high-quality wood, these doors are built to last while adding a touch of modern elegance to any interior.
The sleek white color and flush door design create a seamless and streamlined look that is both contemporary and sophisticated. The horizontal grooves add an extra layer of interest and texture, making these doors a statement piece in any room. The Planum collection is known for its superior quality, and these doors are no exception.
At Planum, we understand that every interior space is unique, which is why we offer a range of customizable options to suit your specific needs. We offer various hinge options, so you can choose the perfect one for your door.
The Modern Single Interior Door is perfect for anyone looking for new york interior doors that offer both form and function. Whether you're looking to create a cohesive and modern feel throughout your space or just need a stylish and functional door, these doors are an excellent option.
In summary, the Modern Single Interior Door by Planum is a great investment for anyone looking for high-quality, stylish interior doors in New York. Their solid construction, elegant design, and customizable options make them the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create a modern and sophisticated interior space. Order yours today and transform your home or office with the Planum collection!

Planum 0770 Painted White Matte Description
SET INCLUDES:
Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16"
Trims
Jamb
Hinges
Passage Handle
Door made of solid pine wood and painted white coating.
Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame.
Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions.
Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2".
Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16".
Introducing the Modern Single Interior Door by Planum - a stunning addition to any home or office space. Made with a solid core and high-quality wood, these doors are built to last while adding a touch of modern elegance to any interior.
The sleek white color and flush door design create a seamless and streamlined look that is both contemporary and sophisticated. The horizontal grooves add an extra layer of interest and texture, making these doors a statement piece in any room. The Planum collection is known for its superior quality, and these doors are no exception.
At Planum, we understand that every interior space is unique, which is why we offer a range of customizable options to suit your specific needs. We offer various hinge options, so you can choose the perfect one for your door.
The Modern Single Interior Door is perfect for anyone looking for new york interior doors that offer both form and function. Whether you're looking to create a cohesive and modern feel throughout your space or just need a stylish and functional door, these doors are an excellent option.
In summary, the Modern Single Interior Door by Planum is a great investment for anyone looking for high-quality, stylish interior doors in New York. Their solid construction, elegant design, and customizable options make them the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create a modern and sophisticated interior space. Order yours today and transform your home or office with the Planum collection!

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com
2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner
Category: Residential $60,000-$120,000
Award Level: Silver
Project Description:
We were contracted by the family to create a master plan for the property. They
were experiencing extreme drainage and erosion problems due to the surrounding properties’
drastic grade changes. Erosion had caused the rear lawn to sink in various areas and the existing
rear patio spaces were failing. The client wanted to rebuild their patios and walkways, repave
their driveway and give their home more visual appeal. Most importantly, they wanted an
environmentally friendly solution.
Our design solution was to create a rain garden that would slow storm water runoff, allow
for percolation, and promote infiltration, while permitting excess clean water to enter the storm
drain at the street with slower velocity. The rain garden acts as a temporary holding space that
allows the earth to slowly absorb water, rather than overwhelm the nearby storm drain. Our first
objective was to conduct a percolation test to determine the amount of clay soil that needed to be
removed before reaching the sandy loam layer. A percolation test and storm water calculations
were generated to accommodate a 1” rain event. Based on our calculations and the small size of
the property, we determined a depth of 18” was necessary for optimal holding capacity. We
removed 18” of clay soil until a layer of sandy loam was encountered. Next, the soil was amended
with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media for the basin of the garden. We
piped the three existing rear downspouts to the rain garden area to capture for infiltration and
alleviate runoff throughout the rear lawn and patio space. We installed an 18” wide over-flow
standpipe at a 24” depth into the ground that outlets to a stone swale that carries the water to the
property edge. As an added means of holding the maximum amount of water, we designed the
standpipe to sit 14” above grade. The height of this standpipe allows this rain garden to capture
14” of water before reaching the overflow capacity. We placed geotextile fabric to help reduce
migration of the stones into the soil and aid in the prevention of weeds and erosion. We heavily
planted the rain garden to further aid in absorption and to attract local wildlife. A native plant
palette of butterfly weed, Panicum, Joe-Pye weed, and asters form a colorful backdrop while the
basin was filled with obligate wetland plants such as royal ferns, irises and cardinal flowers. The
upper edges in the foreground are planted with Echinacea, Rudbeckia and Monarda, satisfying
the local bird community and adding bright seasonal colors. This garden effectively collects and
cleanses rainwater while creating a habitat for birds, frogs, and butterflies.
Our next challenge was to redesign the existing patios and walkways without increasing
impervious surfaces. According to township regulations this property was currently at its
maximum capacity, therefore we designed the front and rear patios with a slightly smaller
footprint to decrease their existing impervious surfaces.
New planting beds were designed throughout the entire property. Plants were chosen that
were tolerant of specific site conditions. For the rear yard, we choose a backdrop of witch hazel
and hollies to provide an evergreen screen as well as early spring color. We placed hydrangea
throughout to add summer color. We planted ostrich fern under the existing spruce tree to create
a lush floor. This area became an additional backdrop for the rain garden as well as a screen for
the neighboring property. We choose a combination of ‘Blue Star’ juniper and creeping jenny to
soften the existing rear wall with creepers. Around the rear patio areas we choose a combination
of Liatris, Rudbeckia and ‘Lo and Behold’ butterfly bush. This combination of plants works in
harmony with the rain garden and attracts additional butterflies.
For the front of the property we worked with an existing Japanese maple that provided
dense shade. We choose a shade-tolerant combination of Heuchera, Astilbe, ferns and hostas for
this area. We added more hydrangeas to the front foundation of the house to provide lush
layering of plant material and visual interest with additional summer blooms.
Overall, we were able to exceed the client’s needs and expectations in transforming their
property into a colorful paradise that attracts wildlife from season to season. The plant palette
provides seasonal interest and the rain garden has successfully decreased storm water runoff.
The new hardscape surfaces were designed and built with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease
impervious surfaces. This project is a positive example of how all properties, regardless of size,
can make an ecological difference by decreasing impervious surfaces and maintaining proper
storm water management.
Photo Credit:
Terren Landscapes

This design by Rifle Paper Co that features sketches of New York, Rio, Sydney, Istanbul, London, Paris, and Cairo was installed on two walls in this family room.

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”
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