The homeowners desired an outdoor space that felt more rustic than their refined interior spaces, but still related architecturally to their house. Cement plaster support arbor columns provide enough of visual tie to the existing house exterior. Oversized wood beams and rafter members provide a unique outdoor atmosphere. Structural bolts and hardware were minimized for a cleaner appearance. Structural connections and supports were engineered to meet California's stringent earthquake standards. Ali Atri Photography

Example of a classic kitchen design in Chicago

Emily Minton Redfield
Kitchen - large traditional l-shaped dark wood floor kitchen idea in St Louis with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, gray backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Photo: A Darling Felicity Photography © 2015 Houzz
Inspiration for a small farmhouse medium tone wood floor enclosed dining room remodel in Seattle with white walls

Tracy Herbert Interiors, LLC
Powder room - contemporary gray tile and glass tile powder room idea in Portland with a wall-mount sink, a two-piece toilet and glass countertops

Photo: Corynne Pless Photography © 2014 Houzz
Example of a country exterior home design in New York

Bathroom - country gray floor bathroom idea in Nashville with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, multicolored walls, an undermount sink and white countertops

Powder room - cottage powder room idea in Boston

The goal of this project was to provide a lush and vast garden for the new owners of this recently remodeled brick Georgian. Located in Wheaton this acre plus property is surrounded by beautiful Oaks. Preserving the Oaks became a particular challenge with the ample front walk and generous entertaining spaces the client desired. Under most of the Oaks the turf was in very poor condition, and most of the property was covered with undesirable overgrown underbrush such as Garlic Mustard weed and Buckthorn. With a recently completed addition, the garages were pushed farther from the front door leaving a large distance between the drive and entry to the home. This prompted the addition of a secondary door off the kitchen. A meandering walk curves past the secondary entry and leads guests through the front garden to the main entry. Off the secondary door a “kitchen patio” complete with a custom gate and Green Mountain Boxwood hedge give the clients a quaint space to enjoy a morning cup of joe. Stepping stone pathways lead around the home and weave through multiple pocket gardens within the vast backyard. The paths extend deep into the property leading to individual and unique gardens with a variety of plantings that are tied together with rustic stonewalls and sinuous turf areas. Closer to the home a large paver patio opens up to the backyard gardens. New stoops were constructed and existing stoops were covered in bluestone and mortared stonewalls were added, complimenting the classic Georgian architecture. The completed project accomplished all the goals of creating a lush and vast garden that fit the remodeled home and lifestyle of its new owners. Through careful planning, all mature Oaks were preserved, undesirables removed and numerous new plantings along with detailed stonework helped to define the new landscape.

Cherry tomatoes ripe for the picking. photo: Eustacia Marsales
Inspiration for a farmhouse landscaping in New York.

The Aerius - Modern American Craftsman on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Welcome to the Aerius. Don’t let the Northwest inspired appearance fool you. As you step inside; the interwoven transitional, modern and contemporary elements make personal solitude, friendly gatherings, and extended family stays simultaneously conceivable. The thoughtful division of rooms and amenities insure space for each member of the household to act independently or to come together as a whole and share in the quiet sophistication of the common areas. The family that lives here values independence as well as inclusion. Functionality and freedom are the principles of this nest; from which a family can take flight. At first glance this home seems to disappear into it’s surroundings. The dark, natural appearance of the rock borrows hues and rough texture from the surrounding forest. A soft, powder blue paint gives no clear chromatic indication between structure and sky. With this in mind the dark shingles seem to float above a stoney foundation. Unexpected levitation isn’t the only aerial endeavor this home embarks upon. With lofty interiors and dismissible separation from the outdoors; people, air and conversation can flow freely throughout the combined space. Overall the home echoes the popular American Craftsman style, which dots the Pacific Northwest landscape. This home’s many peaks; supported by visible gables and lower exterior masonry denote common treatments found throughout Clark County. However, within the championed modern features of this home, touches of originality can still be found. From the driveway to the dining room, the design guides the viewer through the home while maintaining a comfortable and creative atmosphere. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

As LED lighting has become more common, here are a few things to consider when purchasing LED lighting bulbs: If your existing lighting is controlled by dimmers, be sure to use dimmable LEDs. You might have to replace your existing dimmers with LED compatible dimmers. (Tip: some dimmable LEDs don’t work well even with dimmers rated for use with LEDs.) Forget about watts used. Look at the lumen output. Lumens indicate how bright the light will be. Color, or color temperature, indicates whether the light is “cool” (more blue) or “warm” (more yellow). Lower Kelvin (K) temperatures cast a warmer light, higher K temperatures are more cool. Many of our customers find 2700K to 3500K the most comfortable range. The other number to look for on LEDs is the CRI, or Color Rendering Index. This number indicates the quality of the light. On the CRI scale of 0 to 100, incandescent and halogen lamps are generally considered to have a CRI close to 100. Look for LEDs with a CRI close to 100. Not all LEDs are designed to be installed in enclosed fixtures. Check the packaging to make sure the LEDs you plan to use in an enclosed fixture are intended for that use.

Casey Fry
Kitchen - mid-sized contemporary single-wall medium tone wood floor kitchen idea in Austin with flat-panel cabinets, mosaic tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, gray backsplash and dark wood cabinets

A friend noticed a damp, musty smell coming from her living room fireplace the week after a February thaw. When she called a masonry technician from Superior Chimney, to take a look, and found that water had been working its way behind the bricks for years. What started as a small crack now meant her chimney needed structural repairs before she could safely use it again. Chimney repairs are any work done to restore the structural and weatherproof condition of a chimney. This can include mortar joint repair, brick replacement, crown repair, flue repair, and cap or flashing replacement. Most Chicagoland homeowners discover the need for chimney repairs often times after winter, when the freeze and thaw cycles have already done its damage. Uncovering the symptoms early is the best way to keep chimney repairs down. Let’s discuss how that can be done. Why Chicagoland Weather Is Especially Hard on Chimneys Chicagoland has some of the most polarized weather. One day it’s a blizzard and the next week hot, humid and 100 degrees. That swing in weather conditions and temperatures are the real reasons why chimney repairs are needed. When moisture from humid and rainy days’ soak into brick and mortar and then freezes, it expands. As it begins to thaw, the materials contract. Repeat that cycle dozens of times in a single Illinois winter and even solid masonry in the chimney starts to crack, spall, and separate from the joints holding it together. This is called the freeze thaw cycle. We’ve talked about it many times over the years, and it continues to be the single biggest reason homes need chimney repairs more often than homes in milder climates. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the leading nonprofit certifying body for chimney professionals in the United States, notes that water intrusion is one of the most damaging and most preventable problems. If the problem is left to mature, it affects more than the appearance. It compromises the structure itself. What Do Chimney Repairs Involve? Not every chimney problem requires the same fix. Chimney repairs generally fall into a few categories. Understanding the difference, helps homeowners have a more informed conversation with the expert technician. Mortar joint repair or tuckpointing. This involves removing deteriorated mortar between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar, matched to the original color and texture as closely as possible. Brick replacement. When individual bricks have spalled, meaning the face has cracked or popped off from trapped moisture, those bricks are removed and replaced. Crown and cap repair. The crown is the concrete slab at the very top of the chimney. Cracks both big and small let water directly into the chimney flue. Chimney crown repair is often one of the most urgent forms of chimney repairs. Flashing repair. Flashing is the barrier where the chimney meets the roofline. Loose, damaged or poorly installed flashing is a common source for water leaks. The roof gets the blame as it is the largest piece that covers the house. However, it certainly can be the overlooked chimney. Flue and liner repair. Cracked flue tiles or damaged liners affect how safely a chimney vents smoke and combustion gases. When to Know a Chimney Needs Repair Most chimney damage shows up as small, easy to dismiss way. Let’s take a look at the following list. Be sure to print this out and keep it handy so if/when something happens, you know what to look for. • Water stains near the fireplace or on the ceiling • A brownish stain on the wall around your fireplace, or a stain on the ceiling near an exterior chimney. This means water is getting in somewhere it should not. • Crumbling or missing mortar • If you can see gaps between bricks, or mortar that flakes off when you touch it • A leaning or visibly shifting chimney • A chimney that appears to pull away from the house, even slightly, could indicate a structural issue • White staining on the brick (efflorescence) • Chalky white residue left behind as water evaporates out of the masonry. It is a visible sign that moisture is moving through brick • Rusted damper or firebox components • Metal parts inside a fireplace that are rusting are a strong indicator that moisture is present • Debris in the fireplace • Small chunks of brick, mortar, or tile landing in the firebox What are the Various Types of Chimney Repair? This is a compiled list of chimney repairs so you can be aware of what to look for. If you have any questions, contact us directly at 877-244-6349. Homeowners who schedule chimney repairs at the first sign of trouble typically spend far less than those who wait until water damage reaches the interior of the home. This is a great reason to contact Superior Chimney at 877-244-6349. Why an Annual Inspection Matters More Than People Think The CSIA and the National Fire Protection Association both recommend that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected at least once a year, whether or not the fireplace gets used. This recommendation exists because damage does not take a break just because a chimney sits without any use. According to data stated by the CSIA, chimney related fires still contribute to tens of thousands of residential fires across the United States each year, and a large share of those incidents can be traced back to deferred maintenance. An annual chimney inspection is what catches the small mortar crack or the hairline crown crack before it turns into a repair bill. Hiring the Right Company for Chimney Repairs Not every company who offers chimney repair work has the certified training to diagnose a problem correctly. CSIA certification is the most widely recognized credential in the industry, and it requires technicians to study chimney physics, venting systems, and fire codes. After the studies, the new technician needs to pass an exam and agree to a professional code of ethics. When you call, be sure to ask: Are your technicians CSIA certified, and can I verify that certification? Will you show me photos or video of the damage before starting work? Does the estimate distinguish between cosmetic repair and structural repair? At Superior Chimney, we welcome these and other of your questions. How Chimney Repairs Affect Insurance and Resale A chimney in poor condition can complicate a home sale or an insurance claim. Home inspectors routinely report on visible mortar loss, leaning chimneys, or missing chimney caps. Some insurers will request proof of repair before renewing a policy on an older home. Addressing chimney repairs proactively protects more than curb appeal. It protects the sale timeline and the claims history associated to the property. Frequently Asked Questions How often should a Chicago area chimney be inspected? At least once a year, per CSIA and NFPA guidance, regardless of how often the fireplace is used. Can chimney repairs be done in winter? Some interior repairs can happen in cold weather, but most masonry repair requires temperatures consistently above freezing. Spring and fall are the most common repair times in the Chicago area. Is tuckpointing the same thing as chimney repair? Tuckpointing is one type of chimney repair, focused on replacing deteriorated mortar joints. Does homeowners insurance cover chimney repairs? It depends. Sudden damage from a storm may be covered, while gradual deterioration from lack of maintenance typically is not. So Finally… Taking care of your home includes a chimney. Just because you don’t see it every day, doesn’t mean things aren’t happening. Be sure to get a chimney inspection done once per year by a certified and credible company such as Superior Chimney to take care of the issues. Contact us today by calling 877-244-6349.

Plumbing issues rarely occur at a convenient  moment. When selecting whom to install plumbing in Melbourne homes, one must find someone who is licensed, readily available and has the right to tell you the costs upfront before work is commenced. This guide includes what to look at prior to hiring a plumber melbourne and common hiring mistakes to avoid.
Explaining how to choose the right plumber Melbourne homeowners
Why choosing the right plumber matters
Poor plumbing repair may be more expensive to repair than the original problem. Experience, licensing, and communication are also all issues that impact on a job being done right the first time round. A few minutes checking credentials will save later on down the line. Difficult hiring choices may result in:
●    Repeat callouts: Incomplete repairs, which fail once again in the matter of weeks, necessitate a visit by another tradesperson, and additional expense. ●    Hidden charges: Unclear price estimates that become unexpected bills after the project has begun. ●                Property damage: Rushing or unlicensed work that causes damage to pipes, fittings and adjacent walls and floors.
Check licensing and qualifications first
All plumbers operating in Victoria have to have the valid licence issued by the Building and Plumbing Commission. Licensing validates the formal training as well as legal responsibility of the work done. This is checked within a few minutes prior to securing any job. Pre-hiring ensure the following before the hiring:
●    Licence number: A registered plumber is able to issue a licence number which is confirmed by the appropriate authority. ●    Insurance coverage: Public liability insurance insures the property in the case of damage at the time of plumbing work. ●    Trade specialization: Gas fitting and hot water work need to be covered by certain qualifications other than, in general, a plumbing licence. ●                Membership bodies: The association with established industry organizations is usually an indication of continued training and accountability benchmarks.
Ask about availability and response time
Plumbing emergencies do not follow business hours. An explosion of a pipe or gas break should be addressed immediately, irrespective of the days or the time of the day. Skill is no more crucial than availability in the matter of picking a plumber. Some useful questions to ask before making a reservation are:
●    Emergency availability: Checking that the callouts are not provided on weekends, evenings or during public holidays with long delays. ●    Response time: Inquiring about the speed at which a plumber can commonly arrive to address an emergency in the house under contact. ●    Call-out fee: An explanation of whether or not a call-out fee is charged and whether or not the fee is waived when the work is carried out. ●                Service area: In this case, it will be necessary to check whether the plumber visits the given suburb of Melbourne on a regular basis.
Understand pricing before work begins
The most frustrating aspect among the plumbing customers is unclear pricing. An honest plumber discusses prices and alternatives with him/her prior to commencing any job. Written quotes insure the homeowner and the tradesperson. Fair pricing practices normally involve:
●    Fixed quotes: An open quote properly quoted and then inspected, not an hourly estimate. ●    Written breakdowns: Detailed expenses showing labour, materials as well as any other expenses prior to beginning of work. ●    No pressure tactics: Time to study the options without requesting a decision to be made immediately on-site. ●                Transparent extras: All other costs including after-hours costs would be explicitly known prior to the job.
Common errors one should not make when employing a plumber
Hasty judgments made in the plumbing crisis tended to come back to bite. The failure to do basic checks may lead to low-quality workmanship or high prices. Most frequent hiring issues are avoided with a brief wait before making a booking. Frequent mistakes include:
●    Skipping licence checks: Recruiting solely on price without first ensuring they are properly licensed and insured. ●    Accepting verbal quotes only: Accepting oral estimates rather than writing down, making itemised price explanations. ●    Ignoring reviews: Finding a plumber without examining customer feedback in the past few reviews on different independent review sites. ●                Overlooking guarantees: Not enquiring of work done, whether it comes with any part or labour warranty.
A look at the frequently asked questions
What is the average price of a Melbourne plumber?
Prices are depending on the type of job hence a written estimate is always advisable.
Is a call-out fee always charged?
Not necessarily; lots of plumbers cancel a charge after the job is done.
Is there a plumber who can do gas fitting?
No, the other licence qualification is a separate gas fitting licence qualification.
Is it necessary to base a hiring decision on reviews?
Yes, there are some patterns in the quality of reliability and workmanship according to recent reviews.
Is emergency plumbing available on weekends?
There are numerous certified plumbers who have emergency services available on weekends and after hours.

Pepper plants are a delightful addition to any garden, offering a vibrant burst of color and spice to your culinary creations. However, even experienced gardeners can encounter challenges when growing pepper plants. In this blog, we'll explore some common issues you might face and provide practical solutions to help your pepper plants thrive. 1. Slow or Stunted Growth Issue: Slow or stunted growth in pepper plants can be discouraging, but there are specific steps you can take to address this issue effectively. Solution: a. Soil Health: - Well-Draining Soil: Ensure your pepper plants are in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, which can inhibit growth. - Organic Matter: Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve its texture and nutrient content. - pH Level: Test the soil pH and adjust it to the ideal range between 6.0 and 6.8 using lime or sulfur as needed. b. Fertilization: - Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for vegetables to provide essential nutrients steadily throughout the growing season. - Compost: Amend the soil with compost to enhance nutrient availability and soil structure. This can promote healthier growth. c. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Maintain consistent soil moisture levels by watering your pepper plants regularly but avoid waterlogging. Aim for 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting based on your local climate and weather conditions. - Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. 2. Yellowing Leaves Issue: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of various underlying problems, but addressing them promptly can restore the vibrancy of your pepper plants. Solution: a. Nutrient Deficiencies: - Balanced Fertilization: Use a well-balanced fertilizer that includes micronutrients to address nutrient deficiencies. - Specific Nutrients: If you suspect a particular deficiency, such as magnesium, iron, or nitrogen, apply the appropriate nutrient supplement following package instructions. b. Pest and Disease Control: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for common pests like aphids and mites. Remove affected leaves and treat with organic pesticides if necessary. - Disease Management: Look out for signs of diseases like bacterial leaf spot or fungal issues. Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended. 3. Blossom Drop Issue: When pepper plants drop their blossoms prematurely, it can hinder fruit development and lead to disappointment. Solution: a. Temperature Control: - Stable Temperatures: Ensure your pepper plants are exposed to consistent temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during flowering. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations by providing shelter or using row covers. b. Pollination: - Assist with Pollination: If growing peppers indoors or in a greenhouse, help with pollination by gently shaking the plants or using a small brush to transfer pollen between flowers. Outdoor pepper plants are usually pollinated by insects. 4. Wilting Plants Issue: Wilting or drooping pepper plants can be a sign of various problems, but proper care can revive them. Solution: a. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Adjust your watering routine to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water early in the day to prevent fungal issues. - Drainage: Ensure proper soil drainage by amending the soil or using raised beds to prevent waterlogged roots. b. Pest Control: - Pest Inspection: Examine the undersides of leaves for signs of pests like aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with biological insecticides. 5. Curling Leaves Issue: Curling or misshapen leaves indicate stress in pepper plants, which can be caused by various factors. Solution: a. Environmental Stress: - Stable Conditions: Ensure your pepper plants are in an environment with stable humidity, temperature, and adequate air circulation. Avoid sudden changes in conditions. - Proper Ventilation: Adequate air circulation can reduce humidity and prevent fungal issues. b. Pest and Disease Management: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases, addressing them promptly with organic remedies as needed. 6. Sunscald Issue: Sunscald can lead to discolored, leathery patches on pepper fruits when exposed to intense sunlight. Solution: a. Shade Cloth: - Sun Protection: Shield your pepper plants from harsh sunlight during the hottest part of the day using shade cloth or by planting them where they receive some filtered sunlight. b. Pruning: - Fruit Shading: Prune excess foliage to allow better fruit shading, reducing the risk of sunscald. Ensure that there's a balance between foliage and fruit. 7. Pepper Plant Pests and Diseases Issue: Aphids, mites, whiteflies, and various diseases can affect pepper plants, but you can manage them effectively. Solution: a. Regular Inspection: - Vigilant Monitoring: Regularly inspect your pepper plants for signs of pests or diseases, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and stems. b. Organic Remedies: - Pest Control: Use organic remedies like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or diatomaceous earth for pest control. - Disease Management: Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended to manage diseases like powdery mildew or bacterial spot. While growing pepper plants can present various challenges, these common issues are manageable with the right knowledge and care. Regular monitoring, proper soil preparation, and timely intervention can help you enjoy a bountiful harvest of vibrant, spicy peppers. Remember that gardening is a learning experience, and each challenge you face is an opportunity to improve your skills and enjoy the rewards of homegrown peppers in your favorite dishes.

This guest bathroom has white marble tile in the shower and small herringbone mosaic on the floor. The shower tile is taken all the way to the ceiling to emphasize height and create a larger volume in an otherwise small space. large 12 x24 marble tiles were cut down in three widths, to create a pleasing rhythm and pattern. The sink cabinet also has a marble top.

Inspiration for a contemporary blue tile gray floor and single-sink alcove shower remodel in Barcelona with open cabinets, light wood cabinets, white walls, a vessel sink, wood countertops, a hinged shower door and a freestanding vanity