Search results for "Criticisms" in Home Design Ideas

At grade Composite Aztec Decking using a hidden fasteners so no screws are showing. Block Retaining wall and at grade 24x24 pavers to deck.
This is a permitted project in an Environmentally Critical Area of Seattle. Full survey and geotechnical reports were needed as well as changes to the best management practices during install.

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients.
We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space.
To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space.
The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.
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This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients.
We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space.
To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space.
The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

Like many projects, this began with a discussion about reconfiguring the island and refinishing the cabinets. Then the clients asked if I could change their sink (undermounted below granite), add a second dishwasher, and replace her double oven. When they realized the extent of those requests, they decided they might as well replace the cabinets and get the quality, storage, and finishes they wanted. They desired traditional styling with a French motif, and luxurious, yet durable finishes that would complement her eggplant/gold/green fabrics.
To avoid more expense, we kept the existing windows and retained the existing placement of major appliances (except the cooktop which we moved slightly for better function). I relocated the microwave to the island so that we could install a built-in, larger refrigerator.
I reconfigured the layout to better accommodate the needs of this large family – they have six children and three dogs. Everyone has breakfast, takes lunches, has dinner at home daily, and even the dog food is cooked from scratch. There are great organizational accessories in the cabinets. The full-extension quiet-close dovetail drawers minimize noise and feel like fine furniture. The cabinet and countertop finishes are extremely durable. Even the Iroko wood eating counter is easily maintained using an oil-wax that repels stains.
The island shape provides seating for three as well as room for the cooktop, warming drawer, microwave drawer, and generous storage. The sprawling countertop works well for their volume of food preparation. The desk area now functions with proper phone and electrical outlets, file drawers, and enough counter.
The choice of flooring was critical – the kitchen is part of a great room that flows into a large entry hall. The existing travertine, tile, and carpet did not wear well. I selected durable porcelain tiles that resemble limestone and wood and created a European-inspired woven design in the entry. A simpler version of the same materials in the kitchen and an inset real wood into the seating area create flow between the rooms.
To create more visual interest, I removed non-critical soffits. The remaining soffits were clad with wood so it appears that all is part of the cabinet design. The mixture of glazed cherry and black rubbed-through-paint on cherry finishes are enhanced by the dramatic black and gold veins in the creamy granite counter. We retained the straw and plaster walls that create an old-world feeling.
The custom mahogany and iron pantry door balanced the design and completed this truly unique space. Pewter cabinet hardware and patterned glass accentuate the motif. Many of the cabinet accountrements are made from a compo material and recreate historical French mouldings. The remaining adornments are hand-carved wood.
On top of beauty and function, the cabinet boxes are made from environmentally-friendly, no formaldehyde-added agriboard. So we have traditional design, ornate mouldings, multi-step finishes, and are still nice to the earth and my clients!
My scope of work encompassed the complete design process: from design concepts, through working drawings, materials specifications, purchasing, and project administration.
Ed Gohlich - photographer

This was a mission critical exterior door installation as this home is right on the water looking over to Fauntleroy and it gets a lot of intense weather. It was critical that we identify all of the problematic water intrusion points when we pulled out the old failed door. We did a patient and comprehensive test of the exterior to make sure we had identified all of the problem areas before we began interior restoration. The restoration of the interior was done only after all water intrusion problem areas had been tested and proven to be sealed over the course of several weeks. The client was very pleased with the thorough approach we took to the project.

This is a permitted project in an Environmentally Critical Area of Seattle. Full survey and geotechnical reports were needed as well as changes to the best management practices during install.

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

This was a mission critical exterior door installation as this home is right on the water looking over to Fauntleroy and it gets a lot of intense weather. It was critical that we identify all of the problematic water intrusion points when we pulled out the old failed door. We did a patient and comprehensive test of the exterior to make sure we had identified all of the problem areas before we began interior restoration. The restoration of the interior was done only after all water intrusion problem areas had been tested and proven to be sealed over the course of several weeks. The client was very pleased with the thorough approach we took to the project.

Like many projects, this began with a discussion about reconfiguring the island and refinishing the cabinets. Then the clients asked if I could change their sink (undermounted below granite), add a second dishwasher, and replace her double oven. When they realized the extent of those requests, they decided they might as well replace the cabinets and get the quality, storage, and finishes they wanted. They desired traditional styling with a French motif, and luxurious, yet durable finishes that would complement her eggplant/gold/green fabrics.
To avoid more expense, we kept the existing windows and retained the existing placement of major appliances (except the cooktop which we moved slightly for better function). I relocated the microwave to the island so that we could install a built-in, larger refrigerator.
I reconfigured the layout to better accommodate the needs of this large family – they have six children and three dogs. Everyone has breakfast, takes lunches, has dinner at home daily, and even the dog food is cooked from scratch. There are great organizational accessories in the cabinets. The full-extension quiet-close dovetail drawers minimize noise and feel like fine furniture. The cabinet and countertop finishes are extremely durable. Even the Iroko wood eating counter is easily maintained using an oil-wax that repels stains.
The island shape provides seating for three as well as room for the cooktop, warming drawer, microwave drawer, and generous storage. The sprawling countertop works well for their volume of food preparation. The desk area now functions with proper phone and electrical outlets, file drawers, and enough counter.
The choice of flooring was critical – the kitchen is part of a great room that flows into a large entry hall. The existing travertine, tile, and carpet did not wear well. I selected durable porcelain tiles that resemble limestone and wood and created a European-inspired woven design in the entry. A simpler version of the same materials in the kitchen and an inset real wood into the seating area create flow between the rooms.
To create more visual interest, I removed non-critical soffits. The remaining soffits were clad with wood so it appears that all is part of the cabinet design. The mixture of glazed cherry and black rubbed-through-paint on cherry finishes are enhanced by the dramatic black and gold veins in the creamy granite counter. We retained the straw and plaster walls that create an old-world feeling.
The custom mahogany and iron pantry door balanced the design and completed this truly unique space. Pewter cabinet hardware and patterned glass accentuate the motif. Many of the cabinet accountrements are made from a compo material and recreate historical French mouldings. The remaining adornments are hand-carved wood.
On top of beauty and function, the cabinet boxes are made from environmentally-friendly, no formaldehyde-added agriboard. So we have traditional design, ornate mouldings, multi-step finishes, and are still nice to the earth and my clients!
My scope of work encompassed the complete design process: from design concepts, through working drawings, materials specifications, purchasing, and project administration.
Ed Gohlich - photographer

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

As a 23 year professional in wildlife control, I see hundreds of situations every month with nuisance animals going into places that they don't belong. Some of those places are more common than others. I recently addressed a skunk infestation for a residence in Glen Ellyn, IL. The challenge involved a family of skunks that had taken residence under the front concrete stoop. Concrete and skunks are never a good mix because concrete is porous, when a skunk sprays the odors penetrate and will permeate for months and months as the weather gets warm or humidity rises.
My approach was methodical and focused on humane Glen Ellyn skunk removal.
The process began with the strategic placement of live traps near the stoop, ensuring minimal distress to the animals. These traps are industry standard, designed to safely contain the skunks without harm. Regular monitoring of these traps was a critical part of the process, ensuring the skunks were not confined for an extended period.
Upon successful capture, the skunks were removed and the animal proofing work was next on the list.
Skunk exclusion work, is a critical component in preventing future infestations of skunks, raccoons or opossums. This involved a thorough inspection and sealing of potential entry points with steel mesh buried underground at a specific depth and angle. Skunk-proofing is a vital step in ensuring long-term resolution to wildlife intrusions.
Once the skunks were gone and the area was sealed, we performed an ozone treatment to the basement with a special filter to sub the air, destroying the skunk spray's odor molecules from the air. Typically the reason people discover skunks under the stoop to begin with is because the odor from spraying.
For residents in and around Glen Ellyn experiencing similar issues, we offer humane, effective, and affordable wildlife control solutions. Expertise in skunk removal and exclusion is just a call away!

Upper paver patio creating more usable space for get togethers.
This is a permitted project in an Environmentally Critical Area of Seattle. Full survey and geotechnical reports were needed as well as changes to the best management practices during install.

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!

This project is an exhilarating exploration into function, simplicity, and the beauty of a white palette. Our wonderful client and friend was seeking a massive upgrade to a newly purchased home and had hopes of integrating her European inspired aesthetic throughout. At the forefront of consideration was clean-lined simplicity, and this concept is evident in every space in the home. The highlight of the project is the heart of the home: the kitchen. We integrated smooth, sleek, white slab cabinetry to create a functional kitchen with minimal door details and upgraded modernity. The cabinets are topped with concrete-look quartz from Caesarstone; a welcome soft contrast that further emphasizes the contemporary approach we took. The backsplash is a simple and elongated white subway paired against white grout for a modernist grid that virtually melts into the background. Taking the kitchen far outside of its intended footprint, we created a floating island with a waterfall countertop that can house critical cooking fixtures on one side and adequate seating on the other. The island is backed by a dramatic exotic wood countertop that extends into a full wall splash reaching the ceiling. Pops of black and high-gloss finishes in appliances add a touch of drama in an otherwise white field. The entire main level has new hickory floors in a natural finish, allowing the gorgeous variation of the wood to shine. Also included on the main level is a re-face to the living room fireplace, powder room, and upgrades to all walls and lighting. Upstairs, we created two critical retreats: a warm Mediterranean inspired bathroom for the client's mother, and the master bathroom. In the mother's bathroom, we covered the floors and a large accent wall with dramatic travertine tile in a bold Versailles pattern. We paired this highly traditional tile with sleek contemporary floating vanities and dark fixtures for contrast. The shower features a slab quartz base and thin profile glass door. In the master bath, we welcomed drama and explored space planning and material use adventurously. Keeping with the quiet monochromatic palette, we integrated all black and white into our bathroom concept. The floors are covered with large format graphic tiles in a deco pattern that reach through every part of the space. At the vanity area, high gloss white floating vanities offer separate space for his/her use. Tall linear LED fixtures provide ample lighting and illuminate another grid pattern backsplash that runs floor to ceiling. The show-stopping bathtub is a square steel soaker tub that nestles quietly between windows in the bathroom's far corner. We paired this tub with an unapologetic tub filler that is bold and large in scale. Next to the tub, an open shower is adorned with a full expanse of white grid subway tile, a slab quartz shower base, and sleek steel fixtures. This project was exciting and inspiring in its ability to push the boundaries of simplicity and quietude in color. We love the result and are so thrilled that our wonderful clients can enjoy this home for years to come!
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