Search results for "Criticisms" in Home Design Ideas

Alair Homes is committed to quality throughout every stage of the building process and in every detail of your new custom home or home renovation. We guarantee superior work because we perform quality assurance checks at every stage of the building process. Before anything is covered up – even before city building inspectors come to your home – we critically examine our work to ensure that it lives up to our extraordinarily high standards.
We are proud of our extraordinary high building standards as well as our renowned customer service. Every Alair Homes custom home comes with a two year national home warranty as well as an Alair Homes guarantee and includes complimentary 3, 6 and 12 month inspections after completion.
During our proprietary construction process every detail is accessible to Alair Homes clients online 24 hours a day to view project details, schedules, sub trade quotes, pricing in order to give Alair Homes clients 100% control over every single item regardless how small.

Every once in a while, a project comes along that doesn’t just meet expectations—it resets the standard. That’s exactly what happened at Upper Valley project, where the team at GoDesigns El Paso was entrusted with a blank canvas and turned it into a fully integrated luxury retreat, built with precision, purpose, and passion. At the core of this dream backyard is a custom-designed pool and spa, meticulously planned and built together. The pool glows with a Pebble Brilliance finish, its deep, vibrant tones shimmering under sunlight by day and glowing softly under water-lit skies at night. Lightstreams glass tile adds a jewelry-like elegance to the raised spa and the sun shelf, creating rich reflections and textures from every angle. That sundeck isn’t just for lounging—it’s a tactile, thoughtful experience. Designed with Lightstreams glass tile, it’s where kids play, grownups cool off, and everyone can dip their toes and soak their feet in style. It’s as inviting to walk across as it is to sit beside, offering both elegance and functionality. A standout design element is the set of custom stainless steel handrails, elegantly curved and installed with sculptural intent. Not only are they beautiful, but they’re also built to last—resistant to corrosion, timeless in design, and made for safety without sacrificing aesthetics. While beauty was key, so was resilience. The entire project was engineered to meet 100-year flood zone requirements—a critical design element in this El Paso neighborhood. GoDesigns accounted for water flow, elevations, and structural integrity, ensuring that every footing, drainage channel, and grade slope works in harmony with nature. And there’s more than water to love here. The oversized mossrock boulder waterfall along the edge of the putting green is both functional and artistic. Designed as a “table rock” feature, it creates soothing sound and visual movement while anchoring the landscape’s natural side. It’s a conversation piece as much as a sensory experience. Just steps away is a personal putting green and a custom basketball half court, both thoughtfully illuminated for day-to-night enjoyment. The putting green rolls true, edged with boulders and sand pits, while the court boasts pro-level surfacing under bright, architectural pole lighting. The surrounding landscape design ties it all together. Carefully chosen plantings bring color, texture, and balance to the clean stonework and turf areas. Strategic lighting highlights not just the beauty of the plants, but also enhances safety, drama, and ambiance across the entire yard—including the fence lines, water features, and sports zones. Every inch of this Upper Valley Project was built for purpose, performance, and passion. It’s a space where families gather, grand kids play, and memories are made—all under the sun and stars of West Texas. This is what happens when GoDesigns El Paso gets to do what they do best: combine timeless design, elite materials, and masterful installation to create outdoor living environments that are not only beautiful, but unforgettable.

Photo shoot of beautifully renovation historic home in the Sandhills of NC. A lovely home, I could not get enough of. Without a doubt, professional photos are the most critical component of an online marketing campaign for Builders, Designers, Real Estate Agents and Sellers. This stunning home is an example of superior renovation and design. Renovation by Copper and Walnut Interior Designers and construction by Latitude Builders.
Find the right local pro for your project

Jackie and Sean loved the Algonquin neighborhood they lived in with the peaceful neighborhood and the close proximity to work and school. What they didn’t love was how outdated their home had become. With a cramped kitchen and an unused dining room, they decided a remodel was the perfect solution to their problem. They would be able to continue to live in the area they loved, while at the same time they could have the dream home they envisioned.
After a thorough search, Jackie came across Advance Design Studio. She was impressed by all of the positive reviews she saw on the internet and saw herself identifying with all of the project stories she saw on the website. Once they met with designer Scott Christensen and owner Todd Jurs, they knew Advance Design was the right company to make their dreams a reality.
The project consisted of four main areas: the kitchen/dining/powder room, the laundry room, the master bathroom, and the kid’s bathroom. They wanted to expand the kitchen into the seldom used dining room and add a large island for hosting parties and family gatherings. They also wanted new hardwood flooring throughout the first level. The laundry room needed to be more functional, and all three bathrooms were in dire need of updating.
The closed off kitchen was opened up to create a sweeping space between the new eating area and the much larger kitchen. A handsome dry bar complete with a beverage refrigerator and lighted glass door cabinetry makes an elegant transition across from a peninsula area filled with storage. An additional decorative cabinet lighting up elegant dishware through the mullioned glass sits directly across from the drybar.
An expansive island was critical to the kitchen plans. Jackie, Sean and Scott worked closely together to create just the right details for their design. They wanted the island to be functional in addition to being the centerpiece of the room. Added storage for the kid’s school supplies was hidden behind cabinet doors so the children could do their schoolwork right at the island, and a microwave drawer glides open with the touch of a finger hidden inconspicuously within the island space. The easy to care for Cambria Britannica Quartz island top with its sweeping grey and white marble look perched atop hand-carved Craftsman corbels was absolutely what they were hoping for, blending both beauty and function perfectly.
Adding a nice contrast to the brightness of the quartz and the white cabinetry, Kodiak - Leather granite countertops were used to balance the light and dark tones of the space. Dura Supreme Classic White painted cabinets grace the perimeter, while Maple Poppy Seed stained cabinets with a beautiful soft grey woodgrain were used in the beverage center and island. The two tones compliment the large space balancing it out nicely creating interest and elegance with the simple Craftsman style full overlay doors.
A deep warm Barnwood White Oak flooring was added throughout the lower level. The new floor brings additional contrast to the bright kitchen and provides unity with the now open floorplan as it rolls in to the foyer and family room. Final details like the show-stopping lunar like duo light fixtures complete the space and intermix expertly with crisscross details of the glass door mullions, the island bar seating and even accessories in the space.
The small cluttered laundry room needed more space and more storage. With a busy family it seemed to overflow daily and did not have anywhere to hide the families “in and out stuff.” Scott designed the new space with a stackable washer and dryer and much more efficiently organized cabinetry. Doing laundry is now (almost!) a pleasure and keeping everyone’s “stuff” hidden, but readily accessible is now a snap.
The master bath was not a place where the couple enjoyed spending time getting ready for their day. The tub almost never was used, so removing it made it possible to build an extra-large shower, replacing the small cramped cube of the previous shower they hated. Clean, horizontal lines softly draw your eye around the space with porcelain tile called Driftwood Sea spray. Full overlay cabinetry in a soft white vanity with double sinks makes getting ready for the day much more convenient for the busy couple.
Long floor planks made of porcelain tile mimic real hardwood floors in a soft grey to compliment the shower, but with the ease and care of a tile surface. Cambrian Black Granite counters with a matte finish and under mount porcelain sinks with handsome brushed chrome hardware complete the handsome space. A real bonus in any master bath; a custom built in storage nook was tucked in the corner of the space for linens and heavenly storage.
The kid’s bath was in sad shape because it was original to the house. To keep the budget in control, the tub which was in great condition was retained, but focus was on the new large brick style porcelain charcoal tile on the floor, crisp white new Craftsman style cabinetry with pretty furniture details on the corner base, a striking granite top with white under mount porcelain sinks and fresh hardware and faucets. Some beautiful soft grey wood mirrors to match mom and dads were custom sized and placed under new lighting, and 4 hooks were smartly arranged down the wall for kids’ towels.
This couple was determined not to move, and made their house their dream home. Not only does their home function greatly now, but Jackie says, “When the neighbors come to visit, they’re asking if they can “steal” the design”! The added functionality, elegance, and open floor plan were exactly what this family needed in order to stay.
Advance Design Studio, Joe Nowak

Project Overview: The Backyard Renovation 3D Rendering project was developed to visually communicate the design intent and vision for a residential outdoor space. The project aimed to provide clear and engaging representations for both the contractor and the homeowner's association, facilitating a shared understanding of the proposed enhancements.
Key Features:
1. New Driveway with Automatic Gates: The design features a contemporary driveway equipped with automated gates, providing convenience and improved security for the property.
2. Exercise Gym with Yoga Area: A dedicated space for fitness activities that includes both a traditional exercise gym and a serene yoga area, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
3. Coffee Station with Juice Bar: This inviting area is designed for relaxation and socialization, featuring a coffee station complemented by a juice bar to enhance outdoor entertaining.
4. Secluded Meditation Space: A tranquil retreat is included, featuring a soothing wall fountain, cold plunge, and sauna, all surrounded by lush tropical vegetation to create an oasis for relaxation and mindfulness.
5. Lush Tropical Vegetation: The landscaping incorporates a variety of tropical plants that enhance privacy, beautify the space, and contribute to the overall calming atmosphere of the outdoor environment.
Project Goals: The main goals of the project were to:
• Visualize the backyard renovation to gain approval from the homeowner’s association.
• Facilitate collaboration with the contractor by providing detailed renderings.
• Create an aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor living space that meets the lifestyle needs of the homeowners.
The 3D renderings successfully encapsulated the vision for the backyard renovation, presenting a harmonious blend of design and functionality. The visualizations served as a critical tool in moving forward with the project, ensuring clarity in communication and direction for all stakeholders involved.

This bathroom was designed to reduce stress and support healing for families and their children with critical illnesses. We bright blues, matte black, and white to create a sense of home, of safety, and of hope. The star of the bathroom is the porcelain tile that looks like patterned cement encaustic tile from All Natural Stone, San Jose.
The furnishings and accessories are durable, functional, and fun, and include: matte black sconce from Sonneman, industrial style dark bronze mirror, a branch table that can be pulled next to the tub for parents supervising kids in the bath, and soft goods from Vintage Bath Los Altos.
We are honored that Melinda Mandell Interior Design was selected to participate in “Where Hope Has a Home” at the Stanford Ronald McDonald House.
We believe in creating safe, nurturing, and healing spaces for all families!

Updated Traditional lobby for an Assisted Living Memory Care Community. The use of antimicrobial/ Crypton and Greengard contract fabrics was imperative to support the residences healthy, comfortable and attractive environment. Always aware of ADA compliances, spacing for wheel chairs and walkers was critical as well as the proper lighting and accessories. Studies have shown that plants and images of exteriors create a soothing space for communities that specialize in memory Care. To prevent wandering without "imprisoning" residents, camouflaging exit doors and using unobtrusive or keypad locks. Exit doors can also be placed off to the left, or right of hallways so they are not conveyed as destinations.

This is a collection of John Wayne art print installations by artist Mark Lewis. Lewis is a living descendant of Denton Cy Young for which the "Cy" Young pitching award in Major League baseball was created. When one views the work of Mark Lewis, it isn’t “viewing art” like every art critic has dryly gone about doing for years. His work is immersive and passionate. It draws you in and his palette’s diversity gives way for a broad demographic reach. Bold strokes and unexpected color choices epitomize his portrait collection of actors, actresses, and pop culture icons from the 1920s through today.

The house acts as a dam across the slope, making drainage critical. The large river rock conceals pipes buried below to carry runoff away
This is an example of a large modern landscaping in Dallas.
This is an example of a large modern landscaping in Dallas.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms.
The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choregraphed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece.
The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a Page Kempner sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator.
This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

The homeowner is an avid indoor gardener, so making spaces for his beloved plants throughout the design plan was critical. We utilized open shelves, both in the living room but also on either side of the hood, to create dramatic display. Thanks to the expansive windows the foliage thrives!
One of our most loved features of the design plan is the dramatic walnut slat wall. Or more appropriately, three walls that come together to create a triangle! By removing walls and opening up the rooms to each other, a triangle was created with the three walls that needed to remain for structural purposes. We had a vision and a dream of making this triangle a design feature (that also houses the tv and sound equipment!), with an idea of a product to be used, and through team work along side the general contractor and the homeowner we were able to create something truly spectacular! This feature was a true labor of love and a testament to the value of collaboration!!

"When we decided to renovate our newly purchased home we hired TaylorPro, owned by Kerry Taylor. We were extremely happy with his work - in fact, I can't imagine being happier. Our new kitchen is just beautiful as is the master bath and updates to other parts of our house. We hired Kerry while we were still living in Boston so keeping in touch was critical and Kerry corresponded with us very frequently, including photos to keep us apprised of the status of the various projects. Of course if there was a question it was asked almost immediately and he was wonderful about suggesting less expensive alternatives when that made sense. Throughout the project it felt like Kerry was remodeling his own home. He was all about quality. The remodel was finished in the time frame that Kerry had promised and on target with our budget. We love our new home. I hear so many people complain about their contractor. Not me. I would hire him again in a heartbeat. If you hire Kerry and his team you'll see what I mean."
~ Lauren S, Client
Master Suite Remodel featuring Walnut Cabinetry and Walnut Doors. Rich porcelain tile shower . Signature Designs Kitchen Bath HighPoint Cabinetry.
Photos by Jon Upson

Every once in a while, a project comes along that doesn’t just meet expectations—it resets the standard. That’s exactly what happened at Upper Valley project, where the team at GoDesigns El Paso was entrusted with a blank canvas and turned it into a fully integrated luxury retreat, built with precision, purpose, and passion. At the core of this dream backyard is a custom-designed pool and spa, meticulously planned and built together. The pool glows with a Pebble Brilliance finish, its deep, vibrant tones shimmering under sunlight by day and glowing softly under water-lit skies at night. Lightstreams glass tile adds a jewelry-like elegance to the raised spa and the sun shelf, creating rich reflections and textures from every angle. That sundeck isn’t just for lounging—it’s a tactile, thoughtful experience. Designed with Lightstreams glass tile, it’s where kids play, grownups cool off, and everyone can dip their toes and soak their feet in style. It’s as inviting to walk across as it is to sit beside, offering both elegance and functionality. A standout design element is the set of custom stainless steel handrails, elegantly curved and installed with sculptural intent. Not only are they beautiful, but they’re also built to last—resistant to corrosion, timeless in design, and made for safety without sacrificing aesthetics. While beauty was key, so was resilience. The entire project was engineered to meet 100-year flood zone requirements—a critical design element in this El Paso neighborhood. GoDesigns accounted for water flow, elevations, and structural integrity, ensuring that every footing, drainage channel, and grade slope works in harmony with nature. And there’s more than water to love here. The oversized mossrock boulder waterfall along the edge of the putting green is both functional and artistic. Designed as a “table rock” feature, it creates soothing sound and visual movement while anchoring the landscape’s natural side. It’s a conversation piece as much as a sensory experience. Just steps away is a personal putting green and a custom basketball half court, both thoughtfully illuminated for day-to-night enjoyment. The putting green rolls true, edged with boulders and sand pits, while the court boasts pro-level surfacing under bright, architectural pole lighting. The surrounding landscape design ties it all together. Carefully chosen plantings bring color, texture, and balance to the clean stonework and turf areas. Strategic lighting highlights not just the beauty of the plants, but also enhances safety, drama, and ambiance across the entire yard—including the fence lines, water features, and sports zones. Every inch of this Upper Valley Project was built for purpose, performance, and passion. It’s a space where families gather, grand kids play, and memories are made—all under the sun and stars of West Texas. This is what happens when GoDesigns El Paso gets to do what they do best: combine timeless design, elite materials, and masterful installation to create outdoor living environments that are not only beautiful, but unforgettable.

The first thing you notice about this property is the stunning views of the mountains, and our clients wanted to showcase this. We selected pieces that complement and highlight the scenery. Our clients were in love with their brown leather couches, so we knew we wanted to keep them from the beginning. This was the focal point for the selections in the living room, and we were able to create a cohesive, rustic, mountain-chic space. The home office was another critical part of the project as both clients work from home. We repurposed a handmade table that was made by the client’s family and used it as a double-sided desk. We painted the fireplace in a gorgeous green accent to make it pop.
Finding the balance between statement pieces and statement views made this project a unique and incredibly rewarding experience.
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Project designed by Miami interior designer Margarita Bravo. She serves Miami as well as surrounding areas such as Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, and Hallandale Beach.
For more about MARGARITA BRAVO, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/
To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/portfolio/mountain-chic-modern-rustic-home-denver/

Building materials are one of the primary sources of indoor air contaminants that negatively affect the health of our living spaces The EcoCraft team has meticulously selected building materials that are healthy, recyclable, and free of harmful contaminants thereby improving the health of our homes.
Consider also that consistent temperatures between floors, rooms, and surfaces plays a critical role in how humans experience true comfort. Our advanced airtight continuously insulated building envelopes eliminate drafts and cold surface to ensure consistent air and surface temperatures. Individually zoned floors and spaces provide occupant control for added flexibility and individualized temperature settings.
Our extra thick walls and energy star windows reduce sound transfer between the interior and exterior spaces, while our state of the art mechanical systems run quietly to provide an experience you can feel, but can barely hear.

The clean lines of a rectangular pool form an elegant connection between an existing residence and its natural surroundings by way of critical alignments. Set into a gently sloping hillside, the program features a perimeter sitting wall and plantings that add colorful impressions while helping to define various lounge areas, or rooms, and walkways, or hallways, around the pool.

The first thing you notice about this property is the stunning views of the mountains, and our clients wanted to showcase this. We selected pieces that complement and highlight the scenery. Our clients were in love with their brown leather couches, so we knew we wanted to keep them from the beginning. This was the focal point for the selections in the living room, and we were able to create a cohesive, rustic, mountain-chic space. The home office was another critical part of the project as both clients work from home. We repurposed a handmade table that was made by the client’s family and used it as a double-sided desk. We painted the fireplace in a gorgeous green accent to make it pop.
Finding the balance between statement pieces and statement views made this project a unique and incredibly rewarding experience.
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Project designed by Miami interior designer Margarita Bravo. She serves Miami as well as surrounding areas such as Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, and Hallandale Beach.
For more about MARGARITA BRAVO, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/
To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/portfolio/mountain-chic-modern-rustic-home-denver/

This beautiful traditional home highlights the added value architectural shingles can add to the curb appeal of a home. The ridge vents, counter flashing and three dimensional shingles are all critical components to ensure the roof lasts a lifetime.

CURB APPEAL is critical! Home staging is not all about the interior. The exterior creates the buyer's first impression of a home. Shrubs trimmed, weeds pulled, sidewalks and porches swept, mulch fresh and fluffed, lawn neat and trim. We create vignettes - or imagined scenarios that create possibilities in the buyer's mind - like relaxing on the front deck enjoying the view.

2018 HNA Awards Honorable Mention - Concrete Paver - Permeable
Contractor: Sequoia Stonescapes
Producer: Williamette Graystone
Designer: Drake's 7 Dees Landscaping
Eco-Panorama Demi pavers, in a tri-color blend, perfectly complement this home’s exterior. Contrasting color paver bands artfully define the driveway and courtyard. The use of the same pavers in the walkway and courtyard created design continuity and flow. Paver color and texture enhance and seamlessly integrate with an adjacent natural stone retaining wall.
Expert workmanship is showcased via smooth pavement elevation transitions and precise paver trim cuts. This quality Eco-Panorama Demi paver install ensured the homeowner’s stormwater drainage issues were addressed in a manner that enhanced the beauty of their home.
The existing storm drain inlets were retained and work in conjunction with installed Eco-Panorama Demi permeable pavers. The pavers also achieve visual harmonization with the adjacent natural stone wall, which was a project requirement.
This home is positioned at the lower end of a 200ft long drive that drops sixteen feet in elevation from the street entrance. Impervious concrete was replaced with PICP to manage 80,700 gallons of rainwater the pavement receives annually. The PICP improvement eliminated concerns over flooding in the home and garage. The 3500 SF pavement includes a courtyard and vehicle turnaround.
Despite thirty-seven inches of annual rainfall, these homeowners will rest assured their property is protected from rainwater runoff. Keystone Hardscapes’ Eco-Panorama permeable pavers provide improved stormwater management and elevated property value. Stormwater controls critical to the project were achieved and aesthetic beauty was significantly enhanced.
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