Modernism and traditionalism are just steps away from each other at this Vienna Virginia pool house. The main house, built by a national homebuilder, draws upon tradition, but the pool house, speaks the language of contemporary minimalism. It presents clean lines and a soaring roofline overhanging tall glass doors and clerestory windows. Great design, careful attention to detail, first-rate materials and impeccable craftsmanship have yielded a spectacular solution for outdoor entertaining. With a fireplace and every conceivable convenience under roof, this pool house might just be the perfect escape for inclement weather as well. Photography by Greg Hadley http://www.greghadleyphotography.com

Modernism and traditionalism are just steps away from each other at this Vienna Virginia pool house. The main house, built by a national homebuilder, draws upon tradition, but the pool house, speaks the language of contemporary minimalism. It presents clean lines and a soaring roofline overhanging tall glass doors and clerestory windows. Great design, careful attention to detail, first-rate materials and impeccable craftsmanship have yielded a spectacular solution for outdoor entertaining. With a fireplace and every conceivable convenience under roof, this pool house might just be the perfect escape for inclement weather as well. Photography by Greg Hadley http://www.greghadleyphotography.com

Photograph by Alan Abramowitz
This is an example of a large contemporary full sun backyard concrete paver landscaping in Seattle.

Example of a trendy laundry room design in Orlando

This 3,500 SF house sits on 2.5 acres adjacent to a sensitive water-shed area. The living and private functions are organized and separated into two structures with careful attention given to views, the introduction of natural light and cross ventilation. The exterior material are stucco walls, mahogany windows and trim and metal roof. The stucco covers 12” concrete & foam Rastra Blocks, selected for their high thermal and acoustical performance. There are radiant floors throughout. Josh Partee AIAP, ASMP, LEED AP / Architectural Photographer

After many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee. Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project. Photography by Radley Muller Photography Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services

Perched atop a hill overlooking the picturesque Los Osos Valley, this project is an addition to an existing contemporary craftsman home. The clients, who are frequent entertainers and music aficionados, enjoyed their main residence for some time before deciding to add on what would become the entertainment space they had always dreamed of. The addition is situated adjacent to the main house, seamlessly connected by a new gallery breezeway. The breezeway, with views out to the hilltops beyond, acts as separate entry for guests during large parties. This new addition pays careful attention to the proportions of the main house, while taking cues from iconic craftsman homes like the Gamble House. Inside, vaulted ceilings and expertly crafted woodwork display a substantial vinyl music collection and state of the art stereo system. Open seating space, a beautifully detailed bar and fireplace make the space ideal for entertaining large groups. When they are not hosing parties, the clients utilize the space to enjoy their large classical music collection. Custom 12' sliding wood wall panels partition off a portion of the great room space to create an acoustically optimized music listening room. With careful attention to detail and craftsmanship throughout, this addition has surely become the gem of this quintessential Central Coast home.

Perched atop a hill overlooking the picturesque Los Osos Valley, this project is an addition to an existing contemporary craftsman home. The clients, who are frequent entertainers and music aficionados, enjoyed their main residence for some time before deciding to add on what would become the entertainment space they had always dreamed of. The addition is situated adjacent to the main house, seamlessly connected by a new gallery breezeway. The breezeway, with views out to the hilltops beyond, acts as separate entry for guests during large parties. This new addition pays careful attention to the proportions of the main house, while taking cues from iconic craftsman homes like the Gamble House. Inside, vaulted ceilings and expertly crafted woodwork display a substantial vinyl music collection and state of the art stereo system. Open seating space, a beautifully detailed bar and fireplace make the space ideal for entertaining large groups. When they are not hosing parties, the clients utilize the space to enjoy their large classical music collection. Custom 12' sliding wood wall panels partition off a portion of the great room space to create an acoustically optimized music listening room. With careful attention to detail and craftsmanship throughout, this addition has surely become the gem of this quintessential Central Coast home.

Inspiration for a large transitional master carpeted and tray ceiling bedroom remodel in San Francisco with beige walls

Evergreen successfully completed this comprehensive kitchen renovation on Coronado Island, one of the most stunning destination in Southern California, transforming the space into a modern, functional culinary hub that balances aesthetic appeal with technical precision. The renovation required careful structural planning, beginning with the removal of existing cabinetry and assessment of electrical and plumbing systems. We relocated water supply lines and drainage to accommodate the new island configuration, ensuring all connections met current building codes. The electrical system was upgraded to support modern appliances, including dedicated 220V circuits for the range and additional outlets strategically placed for small appliances. The centerpiece island incorporates integrated appliances, requiring precise cutouts and reinforced support structures. We installed a dishwasher with proper venting and water connections, while maintaining seamless cabinetry lines. The ventilation system was redesigned to handle the open-concept layout, with a powerful range hood that ensures proper air circulation. Flooring installation utilized engineered hardwood with proper moisture barriers and expansion gaps, essential for kitchen environments. The white quartz countertops were templated on-site for perfect fit, with careful attention to seam placement and undermount sink installation. In the other side, the color palette combines crisp white perimeter cabinets with a contrasting dark island, creating visual depth. Three oversized pendant lights provide both task and ambient lighting, while recessed LED fixtures ensure even illumination. Black fixtures and hardware tie the modern aesthetic together, while natural wood tones add warmth to the contemporary space.

Energy Efficiency: Every effort has been utilized to reduce and minimize energy use through an effective strategy of both passive heating and cooling, as well as state-of-the-art active solar thermal and photovoltaic on site off-grid energy production. Optimal solar orientation with an attached thermal mass food production greenhouse on the Lower Floor enables hot air to be introduced into the house during the winter, and rise via. a thermal chimney “stack effect” and distributed throughout the house. In the summer the same thermal chimney is used to channel hot air to rise up to the Upper Loft vegetated Roof Terrace, where it is exhausted. This condition provides a positive air pressure in the Winter, and a negative pressure in the summer, drawing in cooler outside air from every open window. In addition carefully proportioned roof eave overhangs provide deep passive solar gain and additional day lighting in the winter, and cooling shade in the summer. Active mechanical systems include solar thermal which produces domestic hot water and is integrated into hydronic radiant heated floors. This is supplemented with a multi-split heatpump, on demand backup hot water, and an ERV, which collectively provide active heating, cooling, dehumidification, and healthful indoor air quality. The entire house and detached Barn are off-grid with a 14.4 kW solar array, whole-house batteries, and backup generator. Further, the home is super insulated and extremely tight with high energy performing windows and doors and LED lighting throughout, and even a high efficiency woodstove. Integrated Design: From the beginning and throughout construction, this home demonstrates a close collaboration between the Architect, Contractor, and Owners. Healthful materials and finishes standards, autonomy and energy efficiency, and environmental impact and sustainability were primary goals and stressed throughout. Careful attention was paid to finishes which will require minimal long term maintenance such as the galvalume metal roof (which also provides for rainwater harvesting) and fiber cement siding for longevity. Resource Efficiency / Conservation: Resource conservation began with Schematic Design which utilizes a 2 ft. grid of modular components, thereby optimizing construction efficiency and minimizing on site waste. The site was cleared with the trees stockpiled for future lumber harvesting and firewood. The foundation walls are “Ideal Walls” which use less than half the concrete of a conventional poured wall or block, and do not require extensive concrete footings, exterior insulation, or waterproofing. These panels are prefabricated off site and set in only a few days, which further reduces on site impact and construction lead time. Resiliency: Respect for climate change and mitigating its impact were primary considerations in the design and selection of materials and systems. The home is sited high on a south facing slope as protection from high water or flood and to optimize both passive and active solar opportunity. With remarkably tight construction and super insulation the interior is buffered from both outdoor heat and cold extremes. The metal roof and fiber cement siding are fireproof and resistant to the impact of high winds. And these materials are specified for minimal maintenance and longevity. Further, the attached Greenhouse and Upper Roof Terrace is landscaped and suitable for a vegetable garden with abundant sunshine, easy to water, and with no need for fencing to keep deer at bay. All this being a notable case study for Regenerative Design. Innovation: This home exemplifies Biophilic Design principles to facilitate symbiotic living in harmony with Nature. This incorporates careful attention to natural day lighting, indoor air quality, rainwater catchment and wastewater reclamation, garden food production with vegetated roofs, the home hearth and fire, and connected interaction with the weather and the surrounding natural ecosystems. Community Impact: This EcoHome project has already been presented at several Sustainable Building lectures as a model case study for “Green Building”, including USGBC at Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach, VA. Plans are underway for an Open House tour for area Architects and students.

This house and guest house were designed with careful attention to siting, embracing the vistas to the surrounding landscape: the master bedroom’s windows frame views of Taylor Mountain to the east while the vast expanses of south and west facing glass engage the Big Hole Range from the open plan living/dining/kitchen area. The main residence and guest house contain 4,850 sq ft of habitable space plus a two car garage. The palette of materials accentuates rich, natural materials including Montana moss rock, cedar siding, stained concrete floors; cherry doors and flooring; a cor-ten steel roof and custom steel fabrications. Amenities include a steam shower, whirlpool jet bathtub, a photographic darkroom, custom cherry casework, motorized roller shades at the first floor living area, professional grade kitchen appliances, an exterior kitchen, extensive exterior concrete terraces with a stainless steel propane fire pit. Project Year: 2009

Example of a mid-sized transitional l-shaped porcelain tile utility room design in DC Metro with a white front door, shaker cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets and white walls

After many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee. Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project. Photography by Radley Muller Photography Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services

The living and private functions are organized and separated into two structures with careful attention given to views, the introduction of natural light and cross ventilation. The exterior material are stucco walls, mahogany windows and trim and metal roof. The stucco covers 12” concrete & foam Rastra Blocks, selected for their high thermal and acoustical performance. There are radiant floors throughout.

Not evident from the street, the parti for this new home is a sweeping arc of glass which forms an expansive panorama of a wooded river valley beyond in the rear. The lot is located in an established and planned neighborhood, which is adjacent to a heavily forested metropark. The house is comprised of two levels; the primary living areas are located on the main level including the master bedroom suite. Additional living and entertaining areas are located below with access to the lower level outdoor living spaces. The large floor-to-ceiling curtain of glass and open floor plan allow all main living spaces access to views and light while affording privacy where required, primarily along the sides of the property. Kitchen and eating areas include a large floating island which allows for meal preparation while entertaining, and the many large retracting glass doors allow for easy flow to the outdoor spaces. The exterior materials were chosen for durability and minimal maintenance, including ultra- compact porcelain, stone, synthetic stucco, cement siding, stained fir roof underhangs and exterior ceilings. Lighting is downplayed with special fixtures where important areas are highlighted. The fireplace wall has a hidden door to the master suite veneered in concrete panels. The kitchen is sleek with hidden appliances behind full-height (responsibly harvested) rosewood veneer panels. Interiors include a soft muted palette with minimalist fixtures and details. Careful attention was given to the variable ceiling heights throughout, for example in the foyer and dining room. The foyer area is raised and expressed as the large porcelain clad element of the entrance, and becomes a defining part of the composition of the façade from the street.

Large farmhouse light wood floor dining room photo in Charlotte with a farmhouse sink, beaded inset cabinets, marble countertops, gray backsplash, subway tile backsplash, no island, white walls and a standard fireplace

Energy Efficiency: Every effort has been utilized to reduce and minimize energy use through an effective strategy of both passive heating and cooling, as well as state-of-the-art active solar thermal and photovoltaic on site off-grid energy production. Optimal solar orientation with an attached thermal mass food production greenhouse on the Lower Floor enables hot air to be introduced into the house during the winter, and rise via. a thermal chimney “stack effect” and distributed throughout the house. In the summer the same thermal chimney is used to channel hot air to rise up to the Upper Loft vegetated Roof Terrace, where it is exhausted. This condition provides a positive air pressure in the Winter, and a negative pressure in the summer, drawing in cooler outside air from every open window. In addition carefully proportioned roof eave overhangs provide deep passive solar gain and additional day lighting in the winter, and cooling shade in the summer. Active mechanical systems include solar thermal which produces domestic hot water and is integrated into hydronic radiant heated floors. This is supplemented with a multi-split heatpump, on demand backup hot water, and an ERV, which collectively provide active heating, cooling, dehumidification, and healthful indoor air quality. The entire house and detached Barn are off-grid with a 14.4 kW solar array, whole-house batteries, and backup generator. Further, the home is super insulated and extremely tight with high energy performing windows and doors and LED lighting throughout, and even a high efficiency woodstove. Integrated Design: From the beginning and throughout construction, this home demonstrates a close collaboration between the Architect, Contractor, and Owners. Healthful materials and finishes standards, autonomy and energy efficiency, and environmental impact and sustainability were primary goals and stressed throughout. Careful attention was paid to finishes which will require minimal long term maintenance such as the galvalume metal roof (which also provides for rainwater harvesting) and fiber cement siding for longevity. Resource Efficiency / Conservation: Resource conservation began with Schematic Design which utilizes a 2 ft. grid of modular components, thereby optimizing construction efficiency and minimizing on site waste. The site was cleared with the trees stockpiled for future lumber harvesting and firewood. The foundation walls are “Ideal Walls” which use less than half the concrete of a conventional poured wall or block, and do not require extensive concrete footings, exterior insulation, or waterproofing. These panels are prefabricated off site and set in only a few days, which further reduces on site impact and construction lead time. Resiliency: Respect for climate change and mitigating its impact were primary considerations in the design and selection of materials and systems. The home is sited high on a south facing slope as protection from high water or flood and to optimize both passive and active solar opportunity. With remarkably tight construction and super insulation the interior is buffered from both outdoor heat and cold extremes. The metal roof and fiber cement siding are fireproof and resistant to the impact of high winds. And these materials are specified for minimal maintenance and longevity. Further, the attached Greenhouse and Upper Roof Terrace is landscaped and suitable for a vegetable garden with abundant sunshine, easy to water, and with no need for fencing to keep deer at bay. All this being a notable case study for Regenerative Design. Innovation: This home exemplifies Biophilic Design principles to facilitate symbiotic living in harmony with Nature. This incorporates careful attention to natural day lighting, indoor air quality, rainwater catchment and wastewater reclamation, garden food production with vegetated roofs, the home hearth and fire, and connected interaction with the weather and the surrounding natural ecosystems. Community Impact: This EcoHome project has already been presented at several Sustainable Building lectures as a model case study for “Green Building”, including USGBC at Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach, VA. Plans are underway for an Open House tour for area Architects and students.

Taking care of plants, trees or shrubs may seem easy, but for many homeowners, the task is riddled with complications. For those who have no previous experience with plant or tree care, mistakes can cause damage or even death to the trees. A lack of proper training or a lack of proper information about tree care can do much more harm than good. We care about your trees and shrubs as much as you care about your property. To help you avoid common mistakes, our team at Five Star Tree Services has created an easy to follow quick start guide for shrubs and tree maintenance. Following this guide will help you take care of your trees and shrubs in-between visits from our trained arborist. Hire Help Professional arborists are qualified and the best to trim, plant, maintain trees and to preform shrub trimming in just about any environment. Not only does a professional arborist have the experience, but they also are specially trained in the care and diagnosis of various plant species and diseases. In addition to taking care of your plant life, they will also offer you instructions on how to care for your plants when they are unavailable. Make sure to take care in who you decide to hire. Instead of choosing the first company you find or the lowest priced plant care service, first you should research their qualifications by asking about how they usually care for trees, what their pruning style is, and how often they plan to visit for seasonal care. If they are not willing to answer your questions or educate you on the proper tree and plant care, keep searching. Proper Tree Care Starts With You Tree care starts with the property owner. The moment you chose a tree and how you care for it once it has been planted, will shape its health for the rest of its life. Proper care in the early years will ensure that it grows into a healthy shape and has a long life ahead of it. Working with a certified arborist will ensure that you choose the right trees for your area and that they are planted and care for properly during the early years. There are many different species and types of plants, shrubs, and trees. Understanding how to care for each one will give you the knowledge needed to help them thrive. Speaking with a skilled professional will allow you to take care of your property effectively and efficiently. Listen Carefully As tedious or as boring as tree care instructions may be, it is important to pay close attention and take notes. Understanding the responsibilities you have as a property owner towards the shrubs and trees on your property is the best way to ensure they are well cared for. In the event that you are unsure about what to do or how to care for your plant life, you can always reach out to one of our certified arborists here at Five Star Tree Services. How We Can Help Whenever you have any Toronto tree care questions, Five Star Tree Services is here to help. We care about your plant life and are dedicated to offering each of our client’s comprehensive care so that your trees and shrubs will thrive. For more information or to get some tips on taking care of the trees on your property, give us a call at (416) 990-3355 to find out more.