ver look at your iron fence and wonder how rust crept up so fast? For homeowners across Chicago's North Side and Near West Side, that moment of recognition often comes too late. Windy City Painters built this project guide to help you understand exactly what a professional iron fence restoration involves, what products matter, and what Chicago's climate demands from every coat of paint applied to exposed metal. PROJECT OVERVIEW This iron fence restoration involved a multi-unit property featuring an ornamental iron perimeter fence typical of Chicago's greystone and courtyard building streetscape. The fence presented moderate-to-severe surface rust, multiple areas of paint delamination, and two sections with deep pitting requiring needle gun descaling before any coating could be applied. The goal was full rust remediation and a durable topcoat finish built for Chicago's demanding climate. Windy City Painters completed the project in two days with zero damage to surrounding hardscape. MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS Ospho Rust Converter - A phosphoric acid-based treatment that chemically transforms iron oxide into iron phosphate, halting active corrosion before primer is applied. Essential on Chicago iron exposed to decades of salt air and freeze-thaw cycling. Corroseal Rust-Inhibitive Primer - A water-based latex primer with built-in rust inhibitors, applied over converted surfaces to seal and prepare metal for topcoating. Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic Coating - Direct-to-Metal formulation delivering exceptional adhesion, flexibility, and corrosion resistance. Available in satin and semi-gloss, ideal for ornamental iron fence painting across Chicago properties. THE PROCESS Step 1 - Mechanical Surface Preparation: Wire wheel grinding with angle grinder attachments removed all loose rust scale, failing paint, and surface contamination. Heavily pitted sections received needle gun descaling to expose clean stable metal beneath. This step determines everything. No primer or topcoat performs correctly over compromised metal, regardless of product quality. Windy City Painters treats prep as the primary investment on every iron fence project. Step 2 - Rust Conversion: Ospho was applied liberally to all areas showing active rust. The phosphoric acid reaction was allowed to complete fully before any priming began. On severely oxidized sections, a second Ospho application ensured complete conversion. This step is non-negotiable in Chicago where freeze-thaw cycles push moisture into every surface irregularity. Step 3 - Priming with Corroseal: Full coverage Corroseal primer coat sealed the converted surface and established adhesion for the finish coats. Corroseal's rust-inhibitive chemistry adds a secondary barrier against moisture penetration, extending the effective life of the topcoat by years in Chicago's humid lakefront environment. Step 4 - DTM Topcoat Application: Two coats of Sherwin-Williams DTM acrylic in satin black were applied by brush to ensure full penetration into ornamental detail. DTM's flexibility accommodates the metal expansion and contraction Chicago temperatures demand, from minus-15 winters to 95-degree July afternoons. Final coverage was uniform and true to color. CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES Chicago iron faces challenges most other markets do not. Lake Michigan humidity accelerates surface oxidation year-round. Road salt from winter de-icing migrates to fence bases and lower rails. Freeze-thaw cycling cracks poorly adhered coatings within a single winter. Greystones, two-flats, and Victorian brownstones often feature original ornamental ironwork with decades of layered paint that must be assessed before any new coating is added. Windy City Painters factors all of these conditions into every iron fence estimate and material selection. WHAT TO EXPECT LONG-TERM A properly prepared and coated iron fence using the Ospho, Corroseal, and Sherwin-Williams DTM system should deliver 5-8 years of performance in Chicago conditions. Annual visual inspection for chips or scratches, followed by prompt spot priming, extends that timeline significantly. Full refinishing cycles become less frequent when the initial prep work is done correctly. PRO TIPS Tip 1 - Never skip the rust converter. Painting over active rust with even the best topcoat guarantees early failure. Ospho or a comparable phosphoric acid treatment must precede any primer on iron showing orange or brown oxidation. Tip 2 - Assess for weld repairs before scheduling painting. If rust has eaten through the metal creating structural voids or broken sections, a welder must address those areas before painting begins. Windy City Painters identifies weld repair needs during the free estimate. Tip 3 - Choose satin or semi-gloss finish on iron. Flat finishes on metal hold moisture and show wear faster. Satin DTM provides enough sheen to shed water while maintaining the traditional look Chicago ornamental iron demands. Ready to restore your iron fence the right way? Visit windypainters.com to schedule your free estimate with Windy City Painters. FAQ Q: What does iron fence painting cost in Chicago? A: Most residential iron fence projects range from $500 to $1,800 depending on linear footage, rust severity, and prep requirements. Windy City Painters provides free detailed on-site estimates for accurate iron fence painting cost in Chicago. Q: How do I know if my fence needs rust conversion or just repainting? A: Any visible orange or brown rust requires chemical conversion before priming. Windy City Painters evaluates every fence during the estimate to determine whether Ospho, mechanical prep, or weld repair is needed before coating begins. Q: Can you paint iron in cold Chicago weather? A: DTM coatings have lower application temperature thresholds than standard exterior paint, but we avoid application below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Windy City Painters schedules iron fence projects for appropriate weather windows throughout the season. Q: How long does iron fence paint last in Chicago? A: With complete rust conversion, Corroseal priming, and Sherwin-Williams DTM topcoat, iron fence painting in Chicago lasts 5-8 years. Annual inspections and prompt touch-ups of chips extend that timeline further. Q: Do I need a welder before an iron fence can be painted? A: Only if rust has created structural voids or breaks in the metal. Windy City Painters assesses this during the free estimate and can coordinate with welders when needed before our painting crew begins. Q: What is the difference between Ospho and Corroseal? A: Ospho is a rust converter applied directly to active rust to chemically neutralize it. Corroseal is a rust-inhibitive primer applied over converted or clean metal. Windy City Painters often uses both in sequence for maximum protection on Chicago iron. Q: How often should Chicago iron fences be inspected? A: Annual inspection is recommended, ideally in early spring after winter salt and freeze-thaw exposure. Catching small chips and bare spots early allows simple touch-up rather than full iron fence repainting, saving significant cost.

Islettes Modular A paradise for the youngster generation, Islettes is exceedingly comfortable, effortlessly charming and will surely bring out the kid in anyone. While smaller in stature compared to its parental counterpart Islands, its resemblance shows in every other way - from multiple connection points that maximize functionality to seemingly endless options for satisfying individual preferences. For spaces small to extra large, Islettes can accommodate any number of little guests with its superhero-like flexibility, and has that touch of whimsy to make even mini-stopovers a treat. Designed by Christopher Panichella

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

• Made from 100% Premium Cotton Voile; Filling: 100% Fine Polyester • 100% Handmade Luxury Quilt. Whole-cloth construction • Machine wash friendly • Ultra soft and light. Versatile for all season use. • Luxury quilts featured with buoyant bubble design, 100% handmade. Quilts and shams made of 100% cotton voile. Compared to regular cotton fabric, it is softer and lighter. Perfect for all-season use. The quilts come in multiple astonishing colors. One among these will blend seamlessly into your well appointed bedroom.

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

The Quarry Mill's Astoria natural thin stone veneer creates a beautiful chimney on this residential home. Astoria thin stone veneer is a blend of beautiful natural granites. The veneer showcases granites from two different quarries which create the unique color combination. In addition to the different color granites, the veneer shows multiple faces of the natural stone. The larger rectangular blue and grey pieces show the bedfaces (outer parts of the quarried slabs), whereas, the smaller more linear blue and grey pieces show the interior or split face of the stone. The pink tones round out the blend which creates Astoria. Astoria is a top-of-the-line stone as the granites are some of the hardest we work with. Due to the hardness of the stone, the pieces take almost twice as long to saw compared to some of our other veneers.

Photos by Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

Photos by Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

Photos by Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

Photos by Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

Photos by Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood. INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site. EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot. THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place. HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde. YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting. ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements. RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage. OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet. ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings Eric Roth Photography - Photography

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

Suad Bejtovic The DeVance Team has collaborated with various synergistic partners in order to create a one-of-a-kind ‘Experience Center’ in the North Dallas corridor. This Electronic Lifestyle facility has quickly become a savvy social and entertaining environment; set up to demonstrate just a few things one can do in their home or office to enhance their quality of life through the use of technology. Guests are dazzled by a plethora of custom electronic selections, incorporated into the latest technology in a cozy, yet high-end residential-style environment. The entire space is home to dozens of custom paintings by local artists and master-crafted wood works and built in cabinetry. The reception area is complimented with a 55” custom designed Art Screen TV with retractable art that rolls up into a motorized casing to reveal a 4K TV screen. The additional spaces show beautifully, with a modern family room, a sophisticated entertainment lounge, and fully functional, stocked wet bar. An acoustically treated 2-Channel listening room houses the finest in McIntosh audio equipment complete with a turntable. This room was designed for vinyl record or streaming music for ‘audiophile enthusiasts.’ The DeVance 18 seat movie theater boasts a state-of-the-art perforated ten foot screen, JBL Synthesis 7.1 surround sound system and crystal clear Runco projection system. Guests enjoy luxurious motorized leather theater seating complete with warm throws and leather ottomans for comfortable movie viewing. The DeVance restrooms continue the Electronic Lifestyle theme on a more personal level, as they are equipped with the top of the line sensor faucets and sinks by TOTO USA, Electric Mirror TVs and the ‘cleaner and greener’ electronic TOTO USA Washlets! The ultimate vision for the DeVance Experience was to create an environment unlike any retail storefront or big box shop, where a unique and exciting experience awaits existing and prospective clients, guests, trade partners and business associates. Collaborating partners are encouraged to utilize the space as a mini-custom showroom of their own; accessing a relaxing environment to lay out clients’ space plans and select samples for custom countertops, specialized cabinet designs, fabrics, paint, carpets, etc. Essentially, The DeVance Experience Center is the hottest design/build/electronic lifestyle showroom around, lending a whole new meaning to “industry partnerships!” Based on current knowledge, there is no other showroom that is comparable. The layout of the new Experience Center was designed specifically for event marketing. To name a few, continuing education classes and training seminars for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers, professional meet up groups and local business functions. Private client tours, relationship appreciation functions, sports and movie watching parties are just a smattering of the promotional campaign lineup. The center provides a professional, yet relaxing and entertaining venue for professional industry trade gatherings and events. The Experience Center offers a showcase for user-friendly automation and control and variety of electronic lifestyle systems throughout the space via the use of an iPhone, iPad or smart tablet. With ease and elegance, guests may choose to control the lighting, shades and draperies, thermostats, whole house music, multiple televisions and video displays (many of which are concealed behind beautifully framed artwork). Mimicking many of the latest possibilities for the high-end homeowner, all of this in a comfortable and luxurious environment that makes them feel right at home! Showroom Exchange Partners include woodworking cabinetry Concepts Realized by Walt Ring, custom artwork by Mark Whitmarsh, Ric Falster, Dawn Cleaves, and Jenny Williamson. Theater millwork interiors by Mancave DFW, custom theater seating, leather furnishings, and wood tables by Touch of France, Silestone surfaces by Cosentino USA, stone fabrication services by A-A Marble also contributing exotic granite vanity tops, faucets, sinks and toilets by TOTO USA, and Kane theater carpeting by Natural Selections.