This architectural delight nestled in Brentwood Hills was designed by Edna Muir in 1960 and featured on the cover of Art and Architecture in 1962. Flash forward to today’s remodel where the builder upheld the beautiful design while upgrading the space for today’s tech needs. With every light and shade on the system and full Alexa integration, this home stays connected in just the right ways.

As readers of architect/designer Katie Hutchison’s book The New Cottage (Taunton Press 2018), these homeowners approached KHS about designing a second home in Westerly, Rhode Island. Theirs is a double-long lot with street frontage on both ends, a short walk from the water. In addition to the new house, their wish list included a new lap pool (with associated patio) and new garage. Aesthetically, they were looking to create an informally elegant, human-scaled family compound, engaged with the site and connected with the outdoors. They further requested sustainable features/systems and low-maintenance materials. In response, KHS proposed an ell-shaped house that wraps two sides of a lap pool/patio. A porch-fronted two-story gabled component faces the main street and is flanked by the one-story primary suite in one leg of the ell and the one-story kitchen and rear porches in the other leg of the ell. The house is an efficient +/- 2800 square-feet and contains four bedrooms and three and one half bathrooms. A salt-box inspired garage is detached so as not to increase the building massing. It helps shape outdoor spaces and doesn’t block daylight and direct exterior access from the house. It faces the secondary street. Driveways off both streets offer different modes of arrival. The south-facing roof of the two-story volume – which includes three bedrooms and two baths – and the south-facing one-story roof of the kitchen and rear porches, as well as the south-facing roof of the garage support 47 photovoltaic solar panels, providing the bulk of the property’s electric power. Two oversized exterior folding glass doors off the living area and kitchen blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, welcoming abundant daylight, views of the pool and patio, as well as summer breezes. An airy living/dining area includes a long custom window seat and borders a semi-open kitchen beneath a cathedral ceiling. Living area built-in shelving frames a TV and surrounds a modern efficient pellet stove. A cheerful interior palette of soft hues features pops of color, Scandinavian wallpapers, custom textiles, and a dash of warm wood accents in the form of counters, built-in desks, and custom furnishings. On the exterior, natural shingles side the main volume and environmentally friendly and durable Boral board-and-batten side the one-story components and garage, communicating a legible hierarchy of spaces. The overall effect is a breezy, crisp New England home, pool patio, and garage for today’s living.

Industry: Building Design and Construction Location: USA The Objective Develop a 3D model for retaining wall design plan meant to block the flood water from a nearby river The Solution Several elements as specified by client were incorporated to design a retaining wall and a detailed 3D model was developed. Technology/Software Used 3Ds Max An environmental consultant had to assess a site and provide a plan to the client for retaining wall design meant to block the flood water from a nearby river from entering the site. Some old hand drawn sketches of a retaining wall structure and a PPT with landscaping plans, was all that was provided. Improvising the basic design and preparing a well rendered 3D model, to facilitate the consultant to give final presentation of the design to the client, was the task. Challenges 1. Client expected a design improvement based on a landscape PPT & some handmade designs developed in 2008. 2. Files were without any exact dimensions or additional inputs from the client 3. No plans, elevations and CAD files were given to support the team for further design revisions and 3D modeling 4. Client’s verbal explanations were to be used as a base to analyze and understand the requirements. 5. Numerous brainstorming sessions, repeated iterations and approvals. 6. Client was accessible only through email and conference call Engineering Solution Retaining the wall to stop flood water from a nearby river entering the area filling it with debris 1. Hi-Tech team deftly handled the communication, approvals and design development process. 2. Built a retaining wall to extend the useful area towards the flood plain of the river. 3. Retaining wall was designed as a 3 stepped structure with property (7 – 8 homes and a swimming pool) at the top. 4. Terraces with trees and shrubs were included. This design feature made the entire wall look like a natural retaining boulder covered with greenery. 5. Narrow walkways and stairs that led to the terrace were incorporated in the design 6. Subterranean garage under the flat ground surface of the property was also included as a part of the design Benefits 1. In a short span of one month, the team managed to develop a fully fledged design and plan for the retention wall. 2. Vacant space was effectively utilized; the stepped wall not only stooped the flood water from entering the client’s property, but also created space for 7-8 homes. 3. The designed structure looked very much a part of the natural terrain, and in fact added to the beauty of the surround

guest bedroom
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary guest vinyl floor and brown floor bedroom remodel in Vancouver with gray walls

Gregg Waller of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Wilmington, NC collaborated with JC Hazelton Builders to design a farmhouse inspired kitchen featuring Green Forest and Masterpiece cabinetry. The kitchen features Green Forest cabinets in the Park Place door style with a White finish for the perimeter, complemented with an island in the Masterpiece door style Turner in Maple with a Shortbread finish. Appliances and countertops were provided by others. The client expressed their appreciation saying, “I literally love every aspect of our kitchen. It is exactly what we wanted. We did not have to sacrifice our vision which was a welcome experience. Gregg was so helpful in hearing what we wanted and then delivering. His knowledge about the products available really helped us achieve our design goals. He created digital examples of our kitchen, laundry and bathrooms which helped us in making our final decision.” “The biggest challenge that I faced was creating the look the client wanted in their new home while staying within a budget that was set prior to our introduction. I decided that Green Forest Park Place cabinets would be the best choice for the majority of the project. Masterpiece cabinets were needed to get the exact color that the client wanted for the kitchen island,” explained Gregg. “My favorite part of the design is the range wall. I like the way the warm wood tones of the hood balance the white shaker cabinets and brick backsplash. The clients were an absolute pleasure to work with. The excellent communication that I received from the client throughout definitely helped in the successful completion of the project!” Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Ehlen Creative Communications
Example of a classic dark wood floor kitchen design in Minneapolis with raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

This renovation project focused on transforming a retired couple’s home into a space that reflects their current stage of life—comfortable, elegant, and functional. With their children grown and moved out, the couple wanted a home that adapted to their needs while addressing years of wear and outdated design. Having had previous negative experiences with contractors, they were hesitant but committed to renovating instead of moving. By building trust through clear communication and a shared vision, the team was able to bring their dream to life. The renovation started with the kitchen, where a partial wall removal opened up the space, creating a seamless flow between the kitchen and living areas. Custom cabinetry with integrated storage solutions, durable contemporary flooring, and refreshed ceilings replaced outdated finishes, while new lighting fixtures and a strategically placed skylight brightened the entire main floor. A built-in entry closet and refinished staircase with sleek metal railings added modern touches without expanding the home’s footprint. In the master ensuite, luxury and function took center stage. The space was expanded to include a full-sized soaking tub, a double vanity with ample storage, and marble tiles for a spa-like retreat. The addition of a home office in the master suite provided a private, comfortable space for hobbies and personal tasks, while an updated closet system brought improved organization. The fully renovated basement, featuring a walk-in shower and custom laundry room furniture, ensured the home could comfortably accommodate visiting family and friends. The project was not without challenges, including integrating a seamless transition between existing structures and a new addition, as well as ensuring the design respected the couple’s cultural tastes. Through teamwork, regular progress updates, and attention to detail, these hurdles were overcome with success. A new patio door now connects the home’s interior to the outdoor space, transforming the backyard into a natural extension of the living area. The result is a stunning transformation—an elegant, modern, and functional home that supports the couple’s evolving lifestyle. This renovation serves as a testament to how thoughtful design and collaboration can create a space that is both beautiful and practical, allowing homeowners to enjoy a new chapter of life with comfort and ease.

Why Communication is so Important..... With just a tiny bit more effort, we could have aligned the Custom Beveled Glass Cluster we made, with the horizontal line created by the Glass Shelves. Unfortunately we all got caught up a bit and did not step back to look at the overall bigger picture.... We could have easily moved the Beveled Glass Cluster up a few inches, and it would not have made a penny difference to the pricing..... Anyways... The Two Cabinet Glass Panels in this photo measure; 10- 7/16" x 30- 7/8". We Custom-Made the Clear Beveled Glass Tulip Clusters In-House, as we always do. so that they can be the Very Best Proportions to the sizes of your cabinet doors. These are not " Off The Shelf " Clusters, as they would have been just too small.... We used a fairly clear and simple Background Glass from Spectrum Glass called - 100A - Clear Artique Glass. We also used our Dark Antique Lead Came which works fairly well with their Antiqued Brass Hardware, unfortunately, our only other choice would have been a Bright Brass.... we all feel we made the better choice.

Ehlen Creative Communications
Kitchen - traditional dark wood floor kitchen idea in Minneapolis with raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

WELCOME TO YOUR BATHROOM | IMO is the fitting for all those who would like to design their own bathroom. The series has a modern, hybrid form that fits into virtually any living environment. IMO makes good design your everyday companion. In digital communication, IMO is the common abbreviation for "In My Opinion". The name IMO invokes this phrase and puts the focus not on the fitting, but on the user's individual view of life. Their opinion, their taste and their individual style of furnishing shape the identity of the IMO series. The IMO series is uniquely versatile. This is also because the design unites two prevalent uses of form, combining a round body with a right-angled lever and spout. | Available at www.shopstudio41.com

Thinking of kitchen and bath remodelers in San Marino? Well, Queen Remodeling is a reliable kitchen remodeling service in San Marino and bath remodeling contractor in San Marino too, who is honest, dependable, and good at communicating is essential to ensure a smooth, stress-free home remodeling project. Kitchen and Bathroom Remodelers in San Marino, CA - https://www.queenremodeling.com/

This space was created as a dance studio for this client and was part of a larger master suite addition. The Bellmont Cabinetry selected for this space serves as an anchor for the entire space. "We found Kerry at TaylorPro early on in our decision process. He was the only contractor to give us a detailed budgetary bid for are original vision of our addition. This level of detail was ultimately the decision factor for us to go with TaylorPro. Throughout the design process the communication was thorough, we knew exactly what was happening and didn’t feel like we were in the dark. Construction was well run and their attention to detail was a predominate character of Kerry and his team. Dancing is such a large part of our life and our new space is the loved by all that visit." ~ Liz & Gary O. Photos by: Jon Upson

Collaborated on project development from design and permitting to installation in 2014. Over 10 years, we’ve maintained close communication with the owners and their maintenance provider, RP Marzilli to ensure the landscape is kept in top condition. The sloping yard allowed us to create a stunning infinity-edge pool, while the large evergreen plantings provide privacy and edge habitat. New England stone walls and mature tree layers beautifully integrate the house with the surrounding landscape. Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC

Northern Michigan is the ultimate getaway destination with serene views and abundance of outdoor recreation. This remote Up North house offers nothing short of that. With the nearest major town almost 45 minutes away, it was essential this vacation home offered all the amenities for entertainment and relaxation. Spire worked with the client to create the perfect lake house retreat with comfort and convenience during any season or weather. The living room with an attached game room is a versatile space that offers endless entertainment. A 65” TV was installed over the fireplace in the custom stone wall. The adjustable mount allows the TV to lower for comfortable viewing from either the couch or pool table. A pair of Meridian Audio DSP7200 custom color matched speakers equipped with a Meridian Audio 218 digital controller were strategically installed on each side of the fireplace. The floor-standing speakers compliment the natural stone while providing astonishingly life-like sound, perfect for streaming live concerts. The powerful audio extends to the upper level of the home. Spire installed B&W 700 series bookshelf speakers in the executive office and a Triad custom speaker bar in the master bedroom. These speakers are ideal for smaller rooms, while elevating the TV experience. The large living room windows offer beautiful lake views and ample lighting. Lutron Palladiom shades were installed to easily control the natural light in the living room, master bedroom and bathroom. They are custom designed and fully automated to let in the morning sun or achieve partial shading or complete privacy. Whether set on a schedule or controlled from an iPad, the shades operate quietly and seamlessly. The technology was designed to be enjoyed just as much indoors as outdoors. With the whole home audio system, high-quality sound can flow throughout the indoor rooms as well as the outdoor patio. While the location may be remote, Spire ensured the WiFi and network connection is strong both throughout the yard and inside the home. A Lutron HomeWorks QS system integrates the control of all the interior and exterior lighting including motion sensing for the exterior pathway. Since this is not a permanent residence, a control and security system was very important. A personalized Savant system was integrated for full home control of lighting, climate, entertainment and security from anywhere with a smart device . This includes the ability to control the multiple landscape light zones with timed scenes. The Doorbird cameras and chimes with the integration of camera feeds into the Savant Control provides remote communication with visitors at any of the exterior doors. Remote access also allows rebooting of all essential systems from any location.

THE KITCHEN/GATHERING PLACE; The granite has room to maneuver around it and accommodates three stools. Communication and participation with the Great Family Room, or Nook (left), is easy and comfortable with the ten-foot archways keeping the space as flowing openly.

Turn Key Interior Concepts One Point Contact for Design and Execution. Competitive Rates. in Time in Budget Delivery. Best Design Options to Choose From. Best Quality of Works. Day to Day Site Supervision and Management. Professional Team to Look After Project Work. Sensitivity to the Existing Structure. Modern Traditional and Contempory Designs Skilled Workforce With Excellent Craftsmanship. Guaranteed Customer Satisfaction. Value for Money. Perfect Time Management. Effective Time Communication. Unique and Signature Designs. No Need of Approvals at Every Stage. Pre Fixed Rates.

We helped the Sacara family renovate their 1,200-square-foot home in the prime Upper West Side location. The original layout included two bedrooms with a shared bathroom, a combined living/dining room area, and a separate kitchen. The family wanted to complete a full apartment renovation and make the layout more functional by adding a second bathroom, laundry room, and additional closets as well as creating an open kitchen concept. The design challenge was to deliver a modern yet classic aesthetic for the entire apartment that captured the family’s vision for a perfect home. The goal was to combine the kitchen and living room areas creating a harmonious flow of natural light and air; add a kitchen island with an additional seating area, and utilize every inch of usable space in the kitchen. The design solution offered a cozy seating area by the window for a morning cup of coffee which simultaneously served as a cover for all the plumbing communications and radiator. A built-in fireplace wall separated the living and dining room zones visually yet allowed them to stay bright and functional. The design and architectural teams collaborated to create multiple layouts and design solutions so the Sacara family had options. Finally, the choice was made and the clients felt confident in their decision. At the building stage, the full apartment renovation included the removal and installation of all walls, bathroom and laundry room addition, and complete closet reconfiguration. Kitchen remodeling featured custom cabinetry, decorative wood island paneling, and a white marble countertop for a luxurious look. The bathroom renovation highlighted herringbone and onyx tiling for color accents. Additionally, the team replaced all hardwood floors throughout the apartment, installed new baseboards, painted all walls and ceilings, and built the new LED channel lighting with dimmer switches. In a matter of a few months, the Sacara family had a fully-remodeled home that expressed their style, vision, and improved functionality.

This house was bought and the homeowner’s wanted to completely remodel their kitchen and three bathrooms before they moved in. While the homeowners were in town we were able to establish a strong sense of what they were wanting to achieve and their tastes in design. However, most of the design, selections and construction was done while they were in New Hampshire. Thankfully with technology our team and the homeowners were able to communicate and successfully prepare the home so that when they moved in it felt like theirs. The kitchen was a place where they wanted functionality and an open area to entertain guests and family.

Northern Michigan is the ultimate getaway destination with serene views and abundance of outdoor recreation. This remote Up North house offers nothing short of that. With the nearest major town almost 45 minutes away, it was essential this vacation home offered all the amenities for entertainment and relaxation. Spire worked with the client to create the perfect lake house retreat with comfort and convenience during any season or weather. The living room with an attached game room is a versatile space that offers endless entertainment. A 65” TV was installed over the fireplace in the custom stone wall. The adjustable mount allows the TV to lower for comfortable viewing from either the couch or pool table. A pair of Meridian Audio DSP7200 custom color matched speakers equipped with a Meridian Audio 218 digital controller were strategically installed on each side of the fireplace. The floor-standing speakers compliment the natural stone while providing astonishingly life-like sound, perfect for streaming live concerts. The powerful audio extends to the upper level of the home. Spire installed B&W 700 series bookshelf speakers in the executive office and a Triad custom speaker bar in the master bedroom. These speakers are ideal for smaller rooms, while elevating the TV experience. The large living room windows offer beautiful lake views and ample lighting. Lutron Palladiom shades were installed to easily control the natural light in the living room, master bedroom and bathroom. They are custom designed and fully automated to let in the morning sun or achieve partial shading or complete privacy. Whether set on a schedule or controlled from an iPad, the shades operate quietly and seamlessly. The technology was designed to be enjoyed just as much indoors as outdoors. With the whole home audio system, high-quality sound can flow throughout the indoor rooms as well as the outdoor patio. While the location may be remote, Spire ensured the WiFi and network connection is strong both throughout the yard and inside the home. A Lutron HomeWorks QS system integrates the control of all the interior and exterior lighting including motion sensing for the exterior pathway. Since this is not a permanent residence, a control and security system was very important. A personalized Savant system was integrated for full home control of lighting, climate, entertainment and security from anywhere with a smart device . This includes the ability to control the multiple landscape light zones with timed scenes. The Doorbird cameras and chimes with the integration of camera feeds into the Savant Control provides remote communication with visitors at any of the exterior doors. Remote access also allows rebooting of all essential systems from any location.