The Tice Residences replace a run-down and aging duplex with two separate, modern, Santa Barbara homes. Although the unique creek-side site (which the client’s original home looked toward across a small ravine) proposed significant challenges, the clients were certain they wanted to live on the lush “Riviera” hillside. The challenges presented were ultimately overcome through a thorough and careful study of site conditions. With an extremely efficient use of space and strategic placement of windows and decks, privacy is maintained while affording expansive views from each home to the creek, downtown Santa Barbara and Pacific Ocean beyond. Both homes appear to have far more openness than their compact lots afford. The solution strikes a balance between enclosure and openness. Walls and landscape elements divide and protect two private domains, and are in turn, carefully penetrated to reveal views. Both homes are variations on one consistent theme: elegant composition of contemporary, “warm” materials; strong roof planes punctuated by vertical masses; and floating decks. The project forms an intimate connection with its setting by using site-excavated stone, terracing landscape planters with native plantings, and utilizing the shade provided by its ancient Riviera Oak trees. 2012 AIA Santa Barbara Chapter Merit Award Jim Bartsch Photography

These projects highlight a variety of custom pergola installations completed by Allman Remodeling Contractors. Pergolas are a popular way to define outdoor living areas while adding shade, structure, and architectural character to patios, pool areas, decks, and backyard gathering spaces. Each pergola is designed to fit the layout and style of the property, with careful attention given to structural support, proper anchoring, and long-term durability in outdoor conditions. Materials and designs can vary depending on the project and may include wood or metal structures, open pergola roofs, or solid roof systems for additional protection from the elements. These structures help transform outdoor areas into comfortable spaces for relaxing, dining, and entertaining while enhancing the overall functionality and appearance of the backyard.

These projects highlight a variety of custom pergola installations completed by Allman Remodeling Contractors. Pergolas are a popular way to define outdoor living areas while adding shade, structure, and architectural character to patios, pool areas, decks, and backyard gathering spaces. Each pergola is designed to fit the layout and style of the property, with careful attention given to structural support, proper anchoring, and long-term durability in outdoor conditions. Materials and designs can vary depending on the project and may include wood or metal structures, open pergola roofs, or solid roof systems for additional protection from the elements. These structures help transform outdoor areas into comfortable spaces for relaxing, dining, and entertaining while enhancing the overall functionality and appearance of the backyard.

Shimizu bamboo fence represents one of Japan’s most luxurious privacy bamboo screens. The bamboo fence structure is similar to the Kenninji bamboo fence but constructed with the 1-inch thin bamboo pole used for the vertical poles. The slenderness of the small bamboo pole gives the fence a very elegant appearance but also makes maintenance rather difficult. Thus, ONETHATCH recreates the same Shimizu bamboo fencing aesthetic but with high-grade ASA resin to allow you to maintain your bamboo fencing beauty for decades. Wherever you installed faux bamboo fencing panels, you’ll be amazed at how well it withstands harsh climate conditions for decades while still looking awesome.

One of the unique features I use in my cabinetry installations is the use of applied cabinet side panels and top moldings that are scribed and cut to fit the conditions of the walls and ceilings, and align flush with the fronts of the cabinet doors, giving an inset appearance to true European-style casework.

Sunroom - transitional sunroom idea

Photography by Catherine Tighe This 1890s tenement apartment, also known as a cold water flat, was ripe for a renovation. With a shower and toilet/sink located at opposite ends and a cooktop in the living room, the railroad layout was a disjointed jumble in need of coherent modernization. Our first step was to move the poche -- the cluster of plumbing and storage space -- into one centralized location. We created a European-styled bathroom with a Carrara marble stall shower and a space-saving wall-hung toilet. Opposite the bathroom are built-in closets constructed to detailed specification to accommodate the couple's wardrobe. The resulting corridor space acts as a fluid connector between the apartments's public living area and the private bedroom. Open walnut shelving in the kitchen lends a "floating" appearance to stacked dishes and glassware, while concealed, small-sized appliances maintain the sleek look. The stove and refrigerator are installed on the stairwell wall, so that the exposed brick of the opposite wall appears to flow through the unit. The living room fireplace was restored to working condition while the bedroom fireplace, a likely fire hazard located so close to the foot of the bed, was ingeniously fitted with a custom shoe cabinet.

This backyard fence installation in Miami was designed to improve privacy, security, and property boundaries for the homeowner. The project included a durable residential fence system built to withstand South Florida weather conditions while maintaining a clean and modern appearance. Backyard fencing is one of the most effective ways to create a private outdoor space while increasing property value and safety. Elite Fence and Gate installs aluminum fences, vinyl fences, wood fences, and custom gates for residential properties throughout Miami and surrounding South Florida communities.

Modern engraved slate house numbers positioned on front entry steps, offering a clean and highly visible solution for identifying the home. This placement works particularly well where wall space is limited or where a low-profile, architectural look is preferred. Crafted from natural slate and deeply engraved for durability, the design ensures long-lasting clarity in outdoor conditions. Ideal for contemporary American homes, this style combines practical visibility with a balanced, design-led appearance at the entrance.

Expansive tree canopy now shades the dining area and cools the areas closest to the home's large banks of windows. The Australian Willow on the top left was chosen for its low leaf litter and ability to thrive in Pasadena's heat.

Le jardinet

Photography by Catherine Tighe This 1890s tenement apartment, also known as a cold water flat, was ripe for a renovation. With a shower and toilet/sink located at opposite ends and a cooktop in the living room, the railroad layout was a disjointed jumble in need of coherent modernization. Our first step was to move the poche -- the cluster of plumbing and storage space -- into one centralized location. We created a European-styled bathroom with a Carrara marble stall shower and a space-saving wall-hung toilet. Opposite the bathroom are built-in closets constructed to detailed specification to accommodate the couple's wardrobe. The resulting corridor space acts as a fluid connector between the apartments's public living area and the private bedroom. Open walnut shelving in the kitchen lends a "floating" appearance to stacked dishes and glassware, while concealed, small-sized appliances maintain the sleek look. The stove and refrigerator are installed on the stairwell wall, so that the exposed brick of the opposite wall appears to flow through the unit. The living room fireplace was restored to working condition while the bedroom fireplace, a likely fire hazard located so close to the foot of the bed, was ingeniously fitted with a custom shoe cabinet.

Light chocolate and robin's egg blue Oushak Persian rug. Laurl Self
Mid-sized trendy home design photo in Birmingham

This is an authentic 1853 British Arms civil war musket in amazing condition. The gun was made in England and has the British Arms seal clearly stamped along with other markings. The gun was sold to both the Union army and the Confederate army. Based on the condition of the gun it appears that it may have been used by the Confederate Navy as most infantry muskets are badly worn. This musket is pristine. This weapon was given to my father in the mid 1960's by a 92 year old man who was our next door neighbor at the time. His last name was Sather. I researched the name Sather in the Civil War registry and there were a couple of names that were a possible match but both were Union Army Soldiers. So, the mystery behind the history and story of the gun is currently unsolved. The barn wood was from a horse barn that was built in 1890 in Orfordville, WI I took the barn down and saved all the wood and some of the beams. The barn is pictured below the stock of the gun. Three sides of the barn are now nailed to the wall in our lower level. Nothing was done to the wood except cleaning up the edges so they would lay flat on top of each other. It was quite the project but it looks amazing in our lower level

© Randall KRAMER-2014
Inspiration for a large modern open concept medium tone wood floor living room remodel in Chicago with beige walls, a metal fireplace and a standard fireplace

The Performer™ ST210 is the solution to moderate heating needs. Its elegance and engineered simplicity makes it a pleasure to burn and a large cooktop surface allows for food preparation – even during power outages. The Performer will add efficiency, ambiance and warmth to your home. Aesthetics Unique, integral airwash system keeps the glass clean and clear for a wide-open view of the fire. Constructed from premium materials, like heavy-gauge stainless steel for dependable performance and striking appearance. Comfort Ceramic-fiber blanket utilizes technology developed by NASA that has 10 times the insulation value of firebrick, radiating heat back into the firebox and creating higher efficiencies and cleaner gas. Uniquely designed refractory baffle assists in igniting fuel-rich gases, increasing efficiency and reducing emissions. Stainless steel afterburner tubes mix oxygen with unburned gases and smoke to create a secondary burn, lowering fuel costs. Heavy-duty door contains no nuts or washers, forming a 360° seal for long-lasting durability. EPA Phase II-certified for clean and efficient operation. Ease of Operation Singular draft control for simple operation and burn rate adjustment. Design Versatility Five unique door finishes to fit your style and home. Pedestal or leg choices provide customizable appearance for personalized styling preference. *Square-feet heating capacities are approximations only. Actual performance may vary depending upon home design and insulation, ceiling heights, climate, condition and type of wood used, appliance location, burn rate, accessories chosen, chimney installation and how the appliance is operated.

Talk about making an impression upon arrival...this long driveway is lined with mature oak and crabapple trees; both of which undergo annual pruning to retain their majestic appearance. Also notice the plush lawn lining both sides, even in these harsh conditions under such large trees.

Extensive work was required on this property to deal with both the poor existing condition as well as to expand the livability of the interior and enhance the exterior appearance. The new open kitchen and informal eating area provide great natural light and extensive views to the rear yard and outdoor entertainment space. The scope of the work also included the addition of a new bedroom, new master bedroom suite (formerly a maid's quarters), children's play area, and expanded garage.

Photography by Catherine Tighe This 1890s tenement apartment, also known as a cold water flat, was ripe for a renovation. With a shower and toilet/sink located at opposite ends and a cooktop in the living room, the railroad layout was a disjointed jumble in need of coherent modernization. Our first step was to move the poche -- the cluster of plumbing and storage space -- into one centralized location. We created a European-styled bathroom with a Carrara marble stall shower and a space-saving wall-hung toilet. Opposite the bathroom are built-in closets constructed to detailed specification to accommodate the couple's wardrobe. The resulting corridor space acts as a fluid connector between the apartments's public living area and the private bedroom. Open walnut shelving in the kitchen lends a "floating" appearance to stacked dishes and glassware, while concealed, small-sized appliances maintain the sleek look. The stove and refrigerator are installed on the stairwell wall, so that the exposed brick of the opposite wall appears to flow through the unit. The living room fireplace was restored to working condition while the bedroom fireplace, a likely fire hazard located so close to the foot of the bed, was ingeniously fitted with a custom shoe cabinet.