Search results for "Challenging task" in Home Design Ideas

Gulf-Front Grandeur
Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida
Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects
Builder: Hufham Farris Construction
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This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project.
We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors.
Challenges:
This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time.
Solution:
The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project.
However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves!
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Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects

Gulf-Front Grandeur
Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida
Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects
Builder: Hufham Farris Construction
---
This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project.
We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors.
Challenges:
This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time.
Solution:
The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project.
However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves!
---
Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.
Find the right local pro for your project

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

Two workspaces, ample hidden and open storage, a space for a large TV, and a reading-lounge area was the large order for this small space. Adding to the challenge was a full french door and two large windows taking up the longest walls in the room topped off by an odd corner build out on the remaining two walls. The solution: wrap the walls in storage (virtually hiding the odd corner build out), using the full height of the walls for storage. Add a two sided peninsulas desk along with a hidden computer desk leaving ample open space to place a lounge chair and side table. The TV, not currently shown in the room, can be placed in large open shelf area for viewing from the lounge chair or desk area.
The results…one hard working office that will make any task worth tacking, feel like a pleasure!

Gulf-Front Grandeur
Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida
Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects
Builder: Hufham Farris Construction
---
This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project.
We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors.
Challenges:
This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time.
Solution:
The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project.
However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves!
---
Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

Rooftopia continues to enjoy working with this client on multiple projects, starting with this lovely first collaboration. The clients goals were to use mostly black finishes with a pink statement dining chair! We developed the space with some existing project challenges so our first tasks involved modifications to the existing pergola and flooring tiles. We integrated a retractable fabric shade canopy and several up/down light fixtures into the new space. We designed, built and installed privacy screens made of faux greenery to block out unsightly views toward the alley. We added cedar screens for privacy and to act as a backdrop for an outdoor TV. We also customized and installed a lovely outdoor cabinet system with drawers and a built-in outdoor refrigerator. Their coffee table doubles as an ice bin to top off the overall party vibe!

What had been a dark, cramped, cluttered kitchen with an awkward adjacent space was transformed into this spacious, abundant, functional, light filled kitchen. Windows were added across much of the exterior wall. The window behind the range was added to bring light across the workspace without losing critical storage above. The jamb and sill are all wrapped in stone making this resilient and easy to clean.
The Island has a unique shape, allowing for both work prep space with traditional edges along two lines mirroring the work side of the kitchen. The opposite side is a free flowing organic shape that makes it easy to lean in to the counter top and engage in conversation.
One of the challenges presented by the space was the shape of a partially vaulted ceiling (from a previous remodel). We considered closing it off but felt losing the volume would be a shame. Instead we came up with an asymmetrical box beam that could serve as the task lighting for the room. Lights placed on the top side of the beam illuminate the elevated volume, creating the illusion of a sun filled space.
Finally, we brought organization and touch of color to the rear-entry / mudroom with some beautiful blue tile and a floating bench that serves double duty as storage for gloves and hats, and leaves space below for shoes.

Gulf-Front Grandeur
Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida
Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects
Builder: Hufham Farris Construction
---
This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project.
We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors.
Challenges:
This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time.
Solution:
The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project.
However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves!
---
Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects

SteveBuilt Inc. doesn’t only take on residential remodels, additions, renovations and new builds – but we also help our friends in the commercial world. We recently wrapped up this renovation of CUPE Hall in Welland for the public sector employees of our region.
On this project, we were tasked with the goal of improving this space for the public sector employees of the Niagara Region. While it certainly came with it’s challenges, we were able to blend our knowledge of residential treatments with our work ethic, communication skills and craftsmanship to enhance this space while remaining on schedule and on budget.
This was an extremely rewarding project to complete, and we can’t wait to take on our next commercial renovation in the Niagara Region.

The task was to transform a timeworn two bedrooms unit at Edmonton government flats into a contemporary-style apartment. The building was constructed in 2000, and the client requested to modify the place with minimum structural changes. Therefore the whole renovation includes the least demolishes and reconstructions.
We removed the previous pantry that was broken at that time and redesigned it in a user-friendly manner. More space was given for the dining area by replacing the ‘u-shaped’ old pantry counter with a simple straight unit. We made sure to add extra storage space up to the height of the ceiling. The main construction challenge was to renovate the existing bathrooms. Kalota changed its appearance by carefully paying attention to waterproofing and adding new accessories and tiles. The living room was transformed into a more spacious seating area with modern furniture and the correct balance of lighting. We applied colors and wall textures to enhance the contemporary ambiance. The fabrications of the interior were completed under the supervision of Kalota. A special thank goes to the client for providing us with the necessary freedom to design and complete the project.

Time had stood still at this 1970s ranch in Armonk when the owners invited us to collaborate with them to transform it into a modern, light-filled home for their young family. The budget was lean, so economy was a primary consideration for every design decision. The challenge was to identify the modest home’s virtues – vaulted ceilings and a lovely backyard – and accentuate them by strategically optimizing available funds.
We were tasked with rectifying a dysfunctional interior stair, connecting to the outdoors with new large windows, and updating the exterior. We focused our attention on a finite set of architectural moves which would have the biggest impact and improve our clients’ daily experience of the home. Detailing was kept simple, using common grade materials and standard components. All exterior walls were revamped with new windows and siding. Although these materials were not particularly costly, thoughtful layout of boards, battens, and openings produced a cohesive, rigorous composition at each facade.
Since the budget would not cover the homeowners’ complete wish list, some items were bracketed for subsequent phases. The challenge was to establish a framework that would allow future work – including a new roof and kitchen renovation – to proceed smoothly.
The homeowners, both scientists, were enthusiastic collaborators, contributing their outstanding design sensibilities to selection of fixtures and finishes. Construction ended just in time for the arrival of their baby – and with that, the transformation of their family home was complete.

My client called me in for a "Design Perspective". She hated her floors and wanted my professional opinion. I questioned whether I should be brutally honest, and her response was "absolutely". Then truth be told, "your countertops bother me more than your floors". My client has a stunningly beautiful home and her countertops were not in "the same league". So the project scope expanded from new floors to include countertops, backsplash, plumbing fixtures and hardware. While we were at it, her overly froufrou corbels were updated along with dishwashers that "drove her crazy". Since there was plenty of "demo" in store, she elected to lower her breakfast bar to counter height at the same time to connect her nook more seamlessly with her kitchen.
The process: at our first slab warehouse stop, within ten minutes, we uncovered the most beautiful slabs of Taj Mahal ever. No need to keep looking. The slabs had perfect coloration and veining. So different from any other slab of Taj Mahal, it really ought to have its own name. Countertop selection was easy as was the subway and Arabesque backsplash tile. Polished chrome, with its blend of warm and cool tones, was the obvious choice for her plumbing fixture and hardware finish. Finding the right floor tile was what proved to be most challenging, but my client was up to the task. Several weeks of shopping and numerous samples hauled home led us to the perfect limestone.
Once her room was complete, better barstools were in order. Hancock and Moore with their huge assortment of leather colors and textures was our clear choice. The Ellie barstools selected embody the perfect blend of form and comfort.
Her new limestone flooring extends into her Butler's pantry, pool bath, powder bath and sewing room, so wait, there is still more to do.

Gulf-Front Grandeur
Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida
Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects
Builder: Hufham Farris Construction
---
This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project.
We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors.
Challenges:
This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time.
Solution:
The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project.
However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves!
---
Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects
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