After contemplating whether to move or remodel, the owners of this 1991 Burnsville home decided to stay and build the character and function they wanted into their current home. Builder grade oak cabinets were replaced by custom cherry and dark enameled cabinets. The island and vent hood form focal design elements as well as provided much-used work spaces for these avid cooks.

When you love something and you realize after years, you’ve inadvertently put that away, a good designer will help you bring that back out. That was Turnstyle’s responsibility here with this recent client project: bring back the joy of spending time in a home library. This space is precious to me, because I’ve known it for all the many years I’ve been working on this home. It sits proudly in the center of the house, greeting people upon entry, and, in my opinion, was a jewel box ready to receive its shine. We blew through a wall to allow it a more spacious entrance, helping anyone who visits to immediately see the stunning on-the-lake view. I applied custom wall to wall antique glass to each wall, floor to ceiling, to enhance the view, make the walls feel like they fall away, and also reflect all the now beautiful art and furniture pieces as part of its new design. Influences from things gathered, stunning reworked furniture from the 1970s and all around functional hero items, allow for better working. The main push residing in really enabling quality time there. This space is open is now refreshing and full of beautiful objects and memorabilia. An inspiring place to contemplate, one is surrounded, and influenced, by a strong, fully fleshed out space through my extensive love of pattern, color and unusual combinations.

Rustic and refined meet to give a mountaintop home in Portola Valley, California, classic charm. They say the best things in life come to those who wait. So when a Bay Area couple purchased a rare set of adjoining lots overlooking Windy Hill in Portola Valley, they made frequent visits to the site where they absorbed the views while listening to the land as they contemplated building a home there. The intent: to create a home that would celebrate the scenic beauty of the San Mateo County region. Long before the design process began, the couple committed themselves to preserving as many trees on the land as possible. These trees, two majestic, centuries-old Blue Oaks in particular, ultimately became the impetus for the home’s orientation and the inspiration for its design. Detailed discussions and brainstorming sessions led the owners to discover their own unique tastes: “cozy” and “rustic“ while “contemporary, but not minimal.” The result? Sophisticated style comprised of simple, honest materials.

A very special corner, filled with personal items that have intrinsic value to the family. Ink drawings, and a bronze bust that was sculpted by the homeowner during her 50s. The built-in bench and natural light provide a spot for easy conversation or quiet contemplation.

Dimensions: W:20 cm | 7,8” D:12 cm | 4,7” H:108 cm | 42,5" Following the footsteps of Draycott I wall, this wall lamp contemplates all details of the Draycott Tower in two tubes. For all that, the design remains delicate and exquisite. Another wall lighting solution made of brass and crystal glass. See more: https://cutt.ly/CnfcShy

Rustic and refined meet to give a mountaintop home in Portola Valley, California, classic charm. They say the best things in life come to those who wait. So when a Bay Area couple purchased a rare set of adjoining lots overlooking Windy Hill in Portola Valley, they made frequent visits to the site where they absorbed the views while listening to the land as they contemplated building a home there. The intent: to create a home that would celebrate the scenic beauty of the San Mateo County region. Long before the design process began, the couple committed themselves to preserving as many trees on the land as possible. These trees, two majestic, centuries-old Blue Oaks in particular, ultimately became the impetus for the home’s orientation and the inspiration for its design. Detailed discussions and brainstorming sessions led the owners to discover their own unique tastes: “cozy” and “rustic“ while “contemporary, but not minimal.” The result? Sophisticated style comprised of simple, honest materials.

Patio - zen patio idea in Vancouver

With this client who has been passionate about plants all his life, there was naturally a close collaboration and a lot of input from him. Upon closer inspection you'd find some very exceptional plants that are sort of experimental but "all worth the try" in Gordon's eyes. And he is right! I relished the opportunity to use Star Magnolia stellata, Redbud Cercis 'Avondale' and 'Silver Cloud', Arabian Lilac 'Grand Duke of Tuscany', Royal Bromeliad Vriesea imperialis, also many unusual bulbs such as Scilla. Besides structure providing shrubs and trees (Tecoma, existing Indian Hawthorne with beautiful structures, Sweet Pea Bush, Golden Breath of Heaven, Ilex, Ginkgo, Bronze Loquat etc.) you'll see here also my favorite perennials, succulents and grasses, all as low care and undemanding as well as low-water as possible, to keep the landscape colorful and interesting year round. One of the highlights of this garden are the dry stream beds, bird bath and garden bench that we added. Built originally by himself and his wife, the dry stream beds were overgrown, mostly hidden by plant debris, or half rolling down hill. We had fun selecting a mixed collection of colorful and richly textured boulders of various sizes over, and with the input from 7 team members: Gordon, me, the contractor, the supervisor and three workers, we re-created the stream beds, making sure that anchor stones on the sides were well embedded in the slope, and that stone shelves and “top dressing” with smaller pebbles would add to the visual interest. Now these beds form very pleasing architectural features that look like they have always been there. We were all surprised how quickly all plants adapted to the site and started growing and putting out bloom. Now the old birdbath, a traditional white thing with dove figurines resting on the scalloped bowl, looked out of place, and I suggested to replace it with a stone bowl. And that part of the garden just called for a bench under the Macademia nut tree, to observe the birds and contemplate the whole creation. Only stone would do, but not any stone! Gordon picked a Basalt boulder that was naturally bowl shaped. It’s so heavy that it took 8 men to heave it into place! The Basalt bench was not much lighter, and together they make a very inviting scene. This job should last for a while. Photographed by Emma Almendarez at http://www.emmatheodoraphotography.com/

When you love something and you realize after years, you’ve inadvertently put that away, a good designer will help you bring that back out. That was Turnstyle’s responsibility here with this recent client project: bring back the joy of spending time in a home library. This space is precious to me, because I’ve known it for all the many years I’ve been working on this home. It sits proudly in the center of the house, greeting people upon entry, and, in my opinion, was a jewel box ready to receive its shine. We blew through a wall to allow it a more spacious entrance, helping anyone who visits to immediately see the stunning on-the-lake view. I applied custom wall to wall antique glass to each wall, floor to ceiling, to enhance the view, make the walls feel like they fall away, and also reflect all the now beautiful art and furniture pieces as part of its new design. Influences from things gathered, stunning reworked furniture from the 1970s and all around functional hero items, allow for better working. The main push residing in really enabling quality time there. This space is open is now refreshing and full of beautiful objects and memorabilia. An inspiring place to contemplate, one is surrounded, and influenced, by a strong, fully fleshed out space through my extensive love of pattern, color and unusual combinations.

Welcome to the Garden of Tranquility, a serene retreat where nature and tranquility harmoniously coexist. Nestled within this sanctuary, you will discover a captivating Zen garden, an oasis of serenity and peace. The Zen garden, meticulously designed and carefully curated, immerses you in a realm of simplicity and balance. Smooth gravel ripples like waves, symbolizing tranquility, while meticulously placed stones create a sense of harmony and order. The garden invites you to stroll along meandering pathways, inviting contemplation and mindfulness with every step.

Project Overview: Our team embarked on a thoughtful renovation journey, transforming an aging deck into a harmonious blend of indoor-outdoor living. The goal was to create a space that honors tradition while embracing modern comfort. Existing Deck Transformation: Original Deck: The existing deck, weathered by years of memories, retained its original purpose—a place where sunlight dances and conversations flow. Uncovered and open to the elements, it stood as a testament to countless gatherings and sun-kissed afternoons. Screen Porch Conversion: Half of the deck underwent a magical metamorphosis, emerging as a screen porch—a sanctuary where the outdoors and indoors intertwine. The screen porch now cradles moments of quiet contemplation, protected from bugs and gentle rain. Design Considerations: Seamless Transition: The transition between the deck and the screen porch is seamless, honoring the house’s original footprint. The shared boundary invites a gentle flow—a dance of light and shadow. Cantilevered Roof: To preserve the deck’s sunlit expanse, we cantilevered the roof over the screen porch. This architectural choice ensures that both spaces coexist harmoniously, each with its unique purpose. Functional Harmony: The deck, now partially covered, continues to serve as an alfresco haven for sunbathing, stargazing, and laughter. The screen porch beckons with its screened walls, inviting cozy evenings and whispered secrets. Legacy and Connection: This renovation isn’t just about wood and nails; it’s about honoring the past and embracing the future. The parents, their children, and grandchildren—all find solace here, under the same sky, within these transformed walls.

Photo of an eclectic landscaping in Vancouver.

Stairs ascend from the driveway to a patio and beyond into the infinity lawn. A bench provides a place for contemplation. Lush planting, with flowering trees and seasonal color interest introduces the garden and continues throughout the property.

Example of an arts and crafts deck design in Vancouver

Inspiration for a rustic landscaping in Vancouver.

This is an example of an asian landscaping in Vancouver.

"About this Home: This custom luxury home isn't just a house; it's an homage to the art of coastal living. Offering over 2,500 square feet of meticulously crafted living space, three bedrooms, and three bathrooms, this residence is an invitation to the timeless allure of coastal life. One of the standout features of this home is the screened porch, a tranquil oasis that invites you to embrace the coastal breeze and the soothing sounds of nature. It's here that you can savor the beauty of the outdoors while being sheltered from the elements—an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation. Ziman Development is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network. Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples. As a Certified Luxury Builder, Ziman Development is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information."

"In renovating our kitchen, we wanted to go with a wooden bar top and a wooden coffee bar to complement our new quartz counter top in our kitchen. We contemplated doing it ourselves, but opted to go with an outside vendor to make the wood. We googled and Hardwood Lumber popped up from Ohio and we live in Atlanta! Very good experience from day one. The design, wood species, and stain selection and shipping were very good. We would highly recommend the company to anyone in the country." Damian

A teenage girl's room thats a departure from the ordinary. This space was meticulously crafted to capture her love for music, museums, literature, and moments of quiet contemplation. Our design journey took us on a quest to create a space that not only exudes a moody atmosphere but also serves as a haven for relaxation, study, and cherished gatherings with friends.