Creating Pressure - Photos & Ideas

When well known philanthropist Rachel (Bunny) Mellon passed away in 2014, a key provision of her will was that her beloved Oak Spring Garden estate in in Upperville, Virginia would be converted to a center for the study of horticulture. During her lifetime, Bunny, a devoted gardener, created stunning gardens on the estate, amassed a collection of priceless horticultural manuscripts and even designed the famous White House Rose Garden. One of the challenges of achieving her vision of a center for horticultural learning on her estate was the need to convert the Mellon's existing stables into hotel-style rooms for visiting scholars. Working with Architect Karl Riedel of Leesburg, our Interior Designer Cathleen Gruver, and Peter Crane, President of the Oak Spring Garden Foundation and his wife Elinor, Gruver Cooley transformed spaces that had once housed race horses into comfortable rooms which fit seamlessly with the spirit of the Mellon property. The original barn was designed in 1949 by New York architectural firm Cross and Sons, which was responsible for many notable buildings there. Although the barn's purpose changed dramatically, the exterior facade was maintained as originally conceived by Mr. Mellon. In the interior, all flooring, wainscoting and some millwork was fabricated using Oak Spring Farm grown timber in maple, oak, walnut and poplar. The desks within each room were also fabricated on site using wood grown on the estate. The barn is ADA accessible and 20% of the rooms meet ADA standards. Making comfortable hotel-style rooms required a number of new systems to be integrated into the structure and provided the opportunity to use sustainable best building practices. Geothermal wells were drilled to provide energy efficient low impact heating and cooling. All ductwork is insulated and sealed, icynene insulation is used on all walls and attic areas and ground level floors are insulated with R6 insulation. Low water toilets and low pressure showers are used in each of the new bathrooms, and all windows are high efficiency advanced low e glass. As you view the pictures above, we think you will agree that the Mellon Legacy has been well preserved while moving the property responsibly into a new chapter of its storied history.

Custom Designed Multi Level Deck with Outdoor Covered Grilling Area and Screen I

Miles Bradley Building and Remodeling

Here is the side of the deck we created for our client. This area connects to the outdoor covered grill and to a set of custom built stairs that leads to the lower level. This deck was made with pressure treated decking, cedar railing, and features fascia trim. Here are a few products used on that job: Underdeck Oasis water diversion system Deckorator Estate balusters Aurora deck railing lights

Redwood Deck Refinish/Restoration & Staining

Petrich Painting & Remodeling

The homeowner's wanted a "ship deck" We pressure washed and stripped/removed solid deck stain. We then applied Helmsman Spar Urethane Gloss clear coat to accent the natural beauty of the redwood. 3 coats were applied with sanding in between to create a impervious finish. Petrich Painting & Remodeling Austin Texas http://www.petrichremodelingaustintx.com

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Rebuilding a Tree Damaged Home, Wayne PA

Match Remodeling

This stunning home in the Main Line section of Philadelphia was hammered during an ice storm two winters ago. A terrifyingly large tree tipped over and plummeted through a second-floor great room. (Amazingly, the homeowner was having her morning coffee downstairs in the kitchen and didn’t get a scratch.) The home was of the highest quality and impeccable taste so, beyond the extensive structural repairs, there was no reason to tinker. We rebuilt the entire structure exactly as it was. The combination of skylights, double-sash windows and custom half-moon window create a bright room in a wooded area. The full-glass sliding doors open to a pressure-treated deck. And the red oak floors were stained to match the rest of the house, as was the oak crown molding. One alteration we made was removing the tree-damaged chimney and installing a gas fireplace with black granite hearth and surround. We also added a custom mantel with arched top, recessed panels and pedestal legs.

Bronco

Living with Lolo

Kitchen in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

Hardwood Inspiration

Levis 4 Floors

Levi’s 4 Floors opened for business in 1986, and ever since we have been creating a pleasant and comfortable shopping environment for each and every customer. We have the top sales consultants and designers in Central Ohio, with an average of 25 years experience in providing our customers with premier service. In addition, Levi’s 4 Floors is the only authorized STAINMASTER FLOORING CENTER in Columbus, and one of the largest independently owned specialty flooring stores in the United States. We only carry the latest fashions; no seconds or discontinued styles. Being a STAINMASTER FLOORING CENTER is more than just a name. It means that our sales staff has extensive product knowledge so that you can focus on choosing the correct style and color for your home, as well as your individual lifestyle. Along with our wide selection of products, we offer exclusive warranties, a customer satisfaction plan, and a low price guarantee. Levi’s 4 Floors will help you find the exact floor for you, whether you are looking for residential, commercial or even custom-builder flooring. Our commitment to your satisfaction doesn’t end with just our flooring choices. We have been given top ratings by the Better Business Bureau and numerous other consumer organizations because our salespeople personally guide you through the purchasing process. Our expert advice and no-pressure sales style guarantees that you will get the best product at the best price. Levi’s 4 Floors continues our service to you by offering the finest installation available, and our installation warranties and cleaning services assure that your floor will continue looking great long after your purchase. Value means getting the products you want at the lowest prices, and at Levi’s we consider it our number one priority to deliver the highest value to every customer. We don’t sell every brand of flooring, only the proven best quality and highest value products. The perfect floor, low prices and easy, professional installation… that’s why we say, “because your home deserves the very best!”

Screened porch with deck combination in New Lenox, IL

Archadeck of Chicagoland

Many times our clients build their projects in stages. These homeowners had Archadeck design and built their screened porch a few years back, and later, came to us to build their deck. The great thing about a screened porch and deck combination is that the space can be used throughout most of the year. We designed this deck with pressure treated pine decking in a herringbone pattern to strengthen the deck. The lattice skirting is a great feature for keeping animals out. The floating bench creates additional seating without taking up too much space on the deck. The screened porch features a gable roof to allow in plenty of natural light along with vertical 4 track windows to let the homeowner choose how much fresh air to let in. This screened porch and deck combination were custom designed and built by New Lenox, IL screened porch designer, Archadeck of Chicagoland.

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Wood Deck Design in Oak Forest, IL

Archadeck of Chicagoland

This spacious elevated wood deck was designed to give the homeowners plenty of room for dining and entertaining. The pressure treated pine deck features black Deckorator pickets for a modern detail, as well as to open up the view to the rest of the yard. The wide angled stair creates an open and inviting feel to the space. The lattice skirting makes a great storage feature, as well as a way to keep animals out. This wood deck was custom designed and built by Oak Forest, IL deck designer, Archadeck of Chicagoland.

Pool House in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

Detached Pergola by Elgin, IL Pergola Builder

Archadeck of Chicagoland

This detached pressure treated pine pergola creates defined living spaces in the backyard. The homeowners’ existing patio now has separation with this new shade structure. One area of the yard can be used for grilling, while the area under the pergola can be used for other activities such as dining or lounging. This pergola was custom designed and built by Elgin, IL pergola builder, Archadeck of Chicagoland.

Bronco

Living with Lolo

Outdoor Furnishings in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

New pool deck and rear deck modifications

J.P. Hoffman Design Build

Using low and maintenance-free materials, these two Norton, MA deck renovation projects will have lasting impact. Our clients hired us to create a space to be used for entertaining and relaxation. We built a 12×12 deck onto their brand-new above ground pool. As premier deck contractors, we designed and built this beautiful, modern and maintenance free deck using AZEK PVC decking. AZEK has a natural wood look and is engineered to last longer than alternative materials like pressure-treated wood. Lead Designer, Jason Hoffman, worked with the Norton, MA homeowners through the Design phase and produced a simple, yet effective and classic design.