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At Magnifico Construction, we offer full-service kitchen and bathroom remodeling solutions in Calabasas. We are driven by our team of experienced kitchen and bath remodelers in Calabasas and neighboring cities who are capable of handling every job like true pros, be it big or small. From our experience as general contractors in Calabasas, you can count on us to get you what your heart truly desires.
General Contractors, Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Service in Calabasas, CA - https://www.magnificoconstruction.com/

Our industrial pendant light will add some versatility to your home. Hang over your kitchen sink or lunch counter for glowing reviews.
Made of metal.
40 Watt bulb max, not included.
Comes with plug, but is hard wire capable.
Cord 14', Chain 12'.
Dimensions: 15.75" x 5" x 15.75" H.

At Parisi Remodeling, we offer full-service kitchen and bathroom remodeling solutions in Azusa. We are driven by our team of experienced kitchen and bath remodelers in Azusa and neighboring cities who are capable of handling every job like true pros, be it big or small. From our experience as general contractors in Azusa, you can count on us to get you what your heart truly desires.
General Contractors, Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Service in Azusa, CA - https://www.parisiremodeling.com/
Find the right local pro for your project

Bolzan Letti was founded in the 90s by the family Bolzan and, despite maintaining its craft character and dimension, by the year 2000 the company had already developed into an industrial enterprise, integrating the craftsmanship know-how with a modern mechanization. The key word of Bolzan’s identity is “Made in Italy”. What sets Bolzan Letti apart in terms of production is the capability of combining tradition and technology. Our products are craft-finished up to the apparently insignificant details, using the technological solutions offered by industry, in order to guarantee the highest quality, strictly and genuinely made in Italy: that means good-looking, comfortable and long-lasting furniture.

This project truly shows the before-and-after capabilities of Falcon Industries. Damaged by Hurricane Sandy, this home needed to be gutted, lifted and renovated to meet new building requirements established by the township following the historic storm. Falcon Industries oversaw every aspect of the project, gutting the residence down to the studs, lifting the home, and renovating the interior fully. The full evolution - from start to finish - is chronicled in the project photos.

This Centreville, Virginia primary bath remodel completely transformed the space. The customers' goals were to update the bathroom to a more contemporary design from its traditional look and feel (original to the home). Their vision was to remove the large, walk up bathtub completely and replace it with a massive walk-in shower with steam shower capabilities and a completely tiled bench at one end. The choice of a bright blue tile for (almsot all the) walls, ceiling, bench and backsplash was done deliberately to complement the bright white cabinetry and the warm brown tiled floor. Previous to the remodel, the bathroom had a variety of somewhat ornate columns and heavy cabinetry which dominated the room. Now, the space is clean, bright, and spacious with just as much storage as before.

Ohio Upscale White Kitchen with Black Island
Most of you know us for our Country And Primitive Furniture and Kitchen Designs, but you should know that we can do other kitchen styles that are still custom, handmade and one of a kind.
We have done many commercial /office projects for this client over the years in Historic buildings that they were restoring.
When it came to their home which was more contemporary they wanted a kitchen that was more upscale and modern but still different, handmade and special.
So this is the kitchen we came up with. White original white painted cabinets on the walls with stainless appliances, a Museum Black over red island base that looks like a "found" antique piece.The island and wall cabinets have 2 different types of granite tops. White Subway tile back splash. This kitchen was my clients vision and my capable team made it happen.
This was my first time doing back lit stainless toe kicks.

QYR67 1-1/8" Carved Ivory Black Bronze Ball Finial Aluminum Alloy Single Double Curtain rod set is made of Aluminum Alloy material and has 1-1/8" diameter, 0.059" thickness. The bracket is made of Refined Steel. The surface is produced by Electrophoresis. QYR67 curtain rod is capable to support 35 kg curtains and could be used for more than 10 years.

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home.
This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality
The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout.
The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan.
This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets.
Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams.
The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools.
Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking.
To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter.
The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination.
The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close.
Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry.
The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door.
Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room.
Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look.
The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses!
Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space.
This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made.
If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

After: The transformation is nothing short of stunning. The new double vanity layout is elevated by a fresh and modern vintage green finish that brings personality and vibrancy to the space. Twin mirrors replace the old single pane, creating symmetry and a more personalized touch. The sleek "Trinsic" widespread faucets in a champagne bronze finish offer a sophisticated glow, beautifully complemented by two 16-inch aged brass "Presley" wall sconces above the mirrors. With dimmable lighting capabilities, the sconces add ambiance and elegance, making the bathroom as functional as it is stylish. This new design seamlessly blends vintage-inspired charm with modern convenience, creating a space that feels timeless yet fresh.

The RIVA collection - design by CLAUDIO BELLINI.
CLAUDIO BELLINI® is a Milan based multidisciplinary design studio founded by Claudio Bellini is built on an open-minded and innovative perspective, respectful to design heritage, specialized in product, furniture, and interior design since 1996. Integrating different disciplines gives the studio the privilege to provide long-term consultancy to clients by advising on graphic design, architecture, CMF, and brand identity.Studio’s capability of analyzing the complex dynamics of foreign markets has led CLAUDIO BELLINI® design studio to be recognized all around the world as one of the most influential European design practices.
Today, the studio continues evolving by enhancing the creativity with the support of a talented multinational team through their complementary skills.
In a game of solids and voids, of lights and shadows, the RIVA collection is born. It takes inspiration from the Moorish style of Andalusian architecture and it is characterised by its severe and essential lines. The empty spaces, created by the particular making of the yarn, bring to mind the arches of the Palace of Carlos V in Granada. A touch of Spain in your house.

THE SETUP
When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space.
While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses.
In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings!
Design Objectives:
Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities.
Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine.
Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing.
Enhance existing features while developing new areas:
Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs
Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities
Create an integrated bar and entertainment area
Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup
Design Challenges:
Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas.
Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan.
Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement.
Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements.
Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking.
Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns)
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility.
Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations.
Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games.
Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting.
Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave.
Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it.
In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section.
For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall.
Final Thoughts:
The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities.
The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space.
Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings.
Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes.
Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command.
Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models.
Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices.
Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor.
Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated.
If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home.
This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality
The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout.
The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan.
This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets.
Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams.
The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools.
Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking.
To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter.
The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination.
The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close.
Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry.
The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door.
Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room.
Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look.
The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses!
Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space.
This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made.
If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

QYR39 1-1/8" Curtain Rod Set is made of aluminum alloy material, the bracket is also aluminum alloy, there are 2 brackets and 3 finials for you choose. QYR39 has 1-1/8" diameter and 0.059" thickness. The bracket is made of Refined Steel. The surface is produced by Electrophoresis. QYR39 curtain rod is capable to support 35 kg curtains and could be used for more than 20 years. The peacock bracket is very beautiful, and the bronze antique design can add artistic flavor to your room, you will like it.

Infinite movement
The Tango pattern comes as summary of “ramage” decorative concept adapted on tile for a neverending motion, no matter what the tile size can be. The final result is indeed amazing : the pattern moves endlessly. The glamour of elegance gets daring… Collection Tango turns on for its precise style and for its capability of joining luxury to originality . The Tango pattern comes as summary of “ramage” decorative concept adapted on tile for a neverending motion, no matter what the tile size can be. The final result is indeed amazing : the pattern moves endlessly on the smooth and plastic-look surface where the typical relief is just slightly perceivable… light and shade talk together in this collection which aims to be contemporary forever.

Caring for aging parents is both a joy and a challenge. The clients wanted to create a more aging-in-place friendly basement area for their mother. The existing kitchenette was more of a glorified bar and did not give her the option of cooking independently, and definitely not stylishly.
We re-configured the area so it was all open, with full kitchen capabilities. All appliances were selected to cater to the mother's limited reach, so all functional storage and product usage can be done without raising arms excessively.
Special storage solutions include a peg-system for a dish drawer, tiered silverware trays, a slide-up appliance garage, and pivoting pantry storage.
The cabinets also give ample display space for her collection of antique glassware.
In lieu of an island, we created a solid-surface top for a standard table so food can be prepped while sitting and without damaging the table top.
All items reflect the mother's tastes and existing furniture so she can truly feel like this basement is her space, while still being close to her son and daughter-in-law.

This Centreville, Virginia primary bath remodel completely transformed the space. The customers' goals were to update the bathroom to a more contemporary design from its traditional look and feel (original to the home). Their vision was to remove the large, walk up bathtub completely and replace it with a massive walk-in shower with steam shower capabilities and a completely tiled bench at one end. The choice of a bright blue tile for (almsot all the) walls, ceiling, bench and backsplash was done deliberately to complement the bright white cabinetry and the warm brown tiled floor. Previous to the remodel, the bathroom had a variety of somewhat ornate columns and heavy cabinetry which dominated the room. Now, the space is clean, bright, and spacious with just as much storage as before.

Sewell Design was commissioned with the responsibility of undertaking the design of this residence for a young family who required a design that would cater for the living requirements of their family currently and for the future. Perched high on top of a hill within a rural setting, this two storey residence was designed to reflect the style of a modern country 'Queenslander' that was capable of encompassing all of the extensive rural landscape views on offer. Symmetrically balanced wall and window proportions, large articulated verandah areas and painted timber trims contribute to the style and detailing of the design. An octagonal 'rotunda' and 'turret' type roof extension of the verandah at the north east corner of the residence provides an outdoor entertaining area for the enjoyment of the extensive views on offer and provides direct sunlight access. A large family home consisting of 5 bedrooms each with walk in robe, guest bedroom with own ensuite, office, formal lounge, kitchen, dining and main living area, theatre room and rumpus room, this residence has all the space needed for the future needs of the occupants.

THE DOOR NAME ORIGIN - "ALLUMINIO ELIVIA VERTICAL WOOD GRAIN 4HS"
Of all the interior door models in the Elivia collection, this one is perhaps the most unapologetically elegant. Why? Hmm … That which is self-evident can be the most difficult to explain. Is it because it is built using the latest breakthroughs in interior door making technology? Look at the finish: the process of applying it utilizes something called “stretching” by professionals, which is to say that instead of simply slapping the finish on top of the interior door’s surface, our company fuses (for lack of a better word) the materials (on molecular level, no less), the result being that the finished product is more warp-resistant, scratch-resistant, and fade-proof than any interior door put together in the past. This is especially important in climates known for their high humidity levels. Yes, but this has more to do with engineering than aesthetics, right? Okay, so, is this interior door super-elegant because ... Show more!
FINISH: WALNUT
When it comes to interior door finishes, walnut may not be king per se, since “different folk have different views,” as the poet said, and it behooves a proper collection of finishes to be thoroughly democratic; but, but … you could view walnut as an important majority leader descended from royalty – like, say, Louis Napoleon back when he was still an elected official and not, as he eventually came to style himself, Napoleon III.
Strictly speaking, a walnut is the seed of a drupaceous nut, and not a true nut in the botanical sense. It is native to Persia (walnut oil is a staple in Iranian cuisine to this day) and North America, even though approximately one half of the world’s production today is done in China.
That said, one of its more historically curious uses would be the production of ink and dyes. Those are made, or used to be made, at least, from the husk surrounding the nut. The ink could be used to produce drawings – or darken paper to make it look older. It has (as it turned out by the by) excellent archival properties. It was used liberally by many capable and honest artists in the past.
A keen observer of the human condition, a Florentine named Leonardo da Vinci never left his house (which featured some pretty interesting interior doors, but that’s a story for another day) … never left it without a vial – and a sketch book.
As he took leisurely strolls around the streets and piazzas, he observed folks – socializing, arguing, fighting, striking bargains, and gossiping. Let us mention in passing – and this is merely an opinion, mind you – that his sketches seem to be a great deal livelier than his portraits, which for the most part adhere to the epoch’s somewhat mawkish standards and the algebraic, rather than harmonious, approach to depicting humans. The perpetual beguiling mystery of Mona Lisa’s smile is undoubtedly magnificent, but it is the Tuscan polymath’s quick yet amazingly insightful drawings that give us an idea – oftentimes a very comprehensive one – of what everyday life was truly like in Florence in the Sixteenth Century. An old man gloating at someone’s misfortune, two passionate merchants arguing over the price of some highly important delivery, a young woman lamenting the lack of decent men whom a reasonable person could view as husband material, and on and on – it’s all there in Leonardo’s sketches characterized by masterful lines and elegant shading despite the obvious – and necessary – impetuosity of each sketch. So precious and brilliant are those casual masterpieces that, had the scientifically inclined fellow eliminated the need for outdoor sketching by inventing photography, it would have been an historian’s immeasurable gain, certainly, but also an art lover’s great loss.
The idea behind our Walnut Finish is to invoke in the interior door owner a feeling of timeless historicity. Some things change, but others are forever. Stability is an important quality in an interior door, is it not?
Rembrandt van Rijn, who also used walnut ink extensively, was a studio artist, with only a few outdoor paintings in his legacy. Truth be told, he was a better draftsman than Leonardo, at least as far as technique goes (don’t let this get around). Well. He lived a century later and had the benefit of all the development art had undergone since the great Italian master. Just like these interior doors – your interior doors – are a huge improvement on anything that was available only twenty years ago, never mind a hundred years ago.
The “oscillation” of Rembrandt’s line, the delightful shift from the descriptive to the aesthetic stroke, makes his production in that category quite unique. Upon reaching artistic maturity, the stubborn Dutch master began to shun the unbroken contour line, which caused a lot of trouble for his drawings a century later, when dealers and collectors who wished to “update” his sketches to fit the current fashion had the audacity to “complete” Rembrandt’s pen-and-inks. Fortunately, some of the sketches escaped this sorry fate and have been preserved in their original glorious state to this day. Rembrandt’s mastery is yet another thing this interior door finish might remind you of each time you look at your doors.
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