Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Residential $60,000-$120,000 Award Level: Silver Project Description: We were contracted by the family to create a master plan for the property. They were experiencing extreme drainage and erosion problems due to the surrounding properties’ drastic grade changes. Erosion had caused the rear lawn to sink in various areas and the existing rear patio spaces were failing. The client wanted to rebuild their patios and walkways, repave their driveway and give their home more visual appeal. Most importantly, they wanted an environmentally friendly solution. Our design solution was to create a rain garden that would slow storm water runoff, allow for percolation, and promote infiltration, while permitting excess clean water to enter the storm drain at the street with slower velocity. The rain garden acts as a temporary holding space that allows the earth to slowly absorb water, rather than overwhelm the nearby storm drain. Our first objective was to conduct a percolation test to determine the amount of clay soil that needed to be removed before reaching the sandy loam layer. A percolation test and storm water calculations were generated to accommodate a 1” rain event. Based on our calculations and the small size of the property, we determined a depth of 18” was necessary for optimal holding capacity. We removed 18” of clay soil until a layer of sandy loam was encountered. Next, the soil was amended with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media for the basin of the garden. We piped the three existing rear downspouts to the rain garden area to capture for infiltration and alleviate runoff throughout the rear lawn and patio space. We installed an 18” wide over-flow standpipe at a 24” depth into the ground that outlets to a stone swale that carries the water to the property edge. As an added means of holding the maximum amount of water, we designed the standpipe to sit 14” above grade. The height of this standpipe allows this rain garden to capture 14” of water before reaching the overflow capacity. We placed geotextile fabric to help reduce migration of the stones into the soil and aid in the prevention of weeds and erosion. We heavily planted the rain garden to further aid in absorption and to attract local wildlife. A native plant palette of butterfly weed, Panicum, Joe-Pye weed, and asters form a colorful backdrop while the basin was filled with obligate wetland plants such as royal ferns, irises and cardinal flowers. The upper edges in the foreground are planted with Echinacea, Rudbeckia and Monarda, satisfying the local bird community and adding bright seasonal colors. This garden effectively collects and cleanses rainwater while creating a habitat for birds, frogs, and butterflies. Our next challenge was to redesign the existing patios and walkways without increasing impervious surfaces. According to township regulations this property was currently at its maximum capacity, therefore we designed the front and rear patios with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease their existing impervious surfaces. New planting beds were designed throughout the entire property. Plants were chosen that were tolerant of specific site conditions. For the rear yard, we choose a backdrop of witch hazel and hollies to provide an evergreen screen as well as early spring color. We placed hydrangea throughout to add summer color. We planted ostrich fern under the existing spruce tree to create a lush floor. This area became an additional backdrop for the rain garden as well as a screen for the neighboring property. We choose a combination of ‘Blue Star’ juniper and creeping jenny to soften the existing rear wall with creepers. Around the rear patio areas we choose a combination of Liatris, Rudbeckia and ‘Lo and Behold’ butterfly bush. This combination of plants works in harmony with the rain garden and attracts additional butterflies. For the front of the property we worked with an existing Japanese maple that provided dense shade. We choose a shade-tolerant combination of Heuchera, Astilbe, ferns and hostas for this area. We added more hydrangeas to the front foundation of the house to provide lush layering of plant material and visual interest with additional summer blooms. Overall, we were able to exceed the client’s needs and expectations in transforming their property into a colorful paradise that attracts wildlife from season to season. The plant palette provides seasonal interest and the rain garden has successfully decreased storm water runoff. The new hardscape surfaces were designed and built with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease impervious surfaces. This project is a positive example of how all properties, regardless of size, can make an ecological difference by decreasing impervious surfaces and maintaining proper storm water management. Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

A stone fireplace in the kitchen harkens back to the days of cooking on the fire. The large stone mantle was hand selected by the owner from their property; truly a local source.

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Believed to be the oldest building in Excelsior Minnesota, this humble brick structure has transformed, been moved, and housed countless people over its 162 years. Affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’, it was built in 1857 and began as the original Excelsior schoolhouse. It was moved to its’ current location in the 1880’s and became a 23-room dormitory for Northwestern Christian College, followed by a boarding house, and finally apartments (in addition to the rumors of more sordid activities in the early 20th century!). After being in the same family for several decades, the owner wanted to transform the building one more time to make it her own home. Citydeskstudio worked closely with her and the Excelsior Historic Preservation Commission on the design. She now occupies the main floor, with additional units above and below for rental and for family. The design celebrates the stout and blocky character of the building with a new modern expansion off the back. There, the building steps and expands outwards in glassy boxes of charred cedar. Inside, the original structure was repaired and uncovered where possible, and previous poorly done modifications were corrected. The center piece of this more open and light-filled home is a rich modern kitchen in walnut, travertine, and steel. The old character remains ever present and is essential to the spirit of The Beehive’s latest transformation. This multigenerational home’s design honors the legacy of the property, marrying the original Excelsior schoolhouse with a beautiful, modern, contextually-sensitive remodel and addition. Project Team: Ben Awes, AIA, Principal-In-Charge Chris Bach Nate Dodge

Kitchen with mixed hardwood flooring from 1880s barn. Exposed original Hemlock beams and ceiling components. Authentic bead board (vertical) Douglas Fir walls (painted). Custom Quarter Sawn White Oak inset cabinets (furniture style). Quarter Sawn White Oak kitchen trim. Hand-cut stone corner fireplace and surround (gas, log set). Granite countertops. Island and peninsula. Big Chill retro refrigerator. Ilve Italian Tuscan range (duel fuel). Best high-capacity range ventilating hood. Large Marvin Ultimate Signature casement window systems. Miele dishwasher. 1 hp Insinkerator garbage disposal. Large Ruvati stainless sink with offset drain. California faucet (farm bridge design). Part of the meticulous restoration of Giant View, a historic 1940s Adirondack camp compound on 20 private acres in Keene Valley, NY. This legacy High Peaks estate is currently available for acquisition. Architectural inquiries and private viewing arrangements are welcome. For additional details, the property listing is available on the Merrill L. Thomas agency website at www.adirondackestates.com (MLS# 202597); email: dominika@adirondackestates.com

The first thing anyone sees when visiting your home is your driveway. Most driveways are plain gray concrete without any added finishes or textures. However, for a very reasonable price, you can add a touch of luxury. Stamped concrete and exposed aggregate finishes are a great way to give your driveway and property curb appeal. Not only do they come in a variety of patterns and colors, but they also provide a long-lasting surface that requires little maintenance. Many of our customers come to us because their driveways have cracked and crumbled. Unfortunately, their driveways were created with little focus on doing the job right. Diehl Concrete is a locally owned small business that focuses on creating an aesthetically pleasing product that is also long lasting. We can replace your driveway with a quality aggregate, stamped, or traditional broom finish, which can make a huge difference in your home’s appearance. With over 15 years in the concrete business, Diehl Concrete would be a great choice for your concrete driveway renovation. We take great pride in preparing and finishing all concrete projects, using only quality concrete products. The owner, Ryan Diehl, is personally involved with each and every project. Call today and he will evaluate your current driveway, answer your questions, and provide a free quote.

Complete Kitchen Remodel in Morrisville: Project Overview Project Location: New House in Morrisville Project Goal: Full kitchen remodel to modernize and enhance functionality. Renovation Details: Flooring: Installation of new, beautiful hardwood flooring providing a warm and elegant foundation for the kitchen. Cabinetry: Fitting of new gray cabinets, offering a contemporary look and ample storage. Lighting: Recessed lighting installed for a clean, streamlined look. Stylish pendant lights over the island, adding a focal point and ambient lighting. Appliances: Installing all-new, modern kitchen appliances for enhanced efficiency and style. Installation of a 48-inch gas cooktop with a powerful range hood, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Seamless integration of an electric oven and microwave into the cabinetry. Inclusion of essential amenities like a garbage disposal and dishwasher for convenience. Backsplash: Black large-format hexagon tiles installed on the backsplash, adding a unique and sophisticated aesthetic. Electrical and Plumbing: Installation of all electrical outlets to meet current safety standards. Installation of new plumbing fixtures, ensuring functionality and modern design. Project Outcome: This kitchen remodel is complete. It has successfully turned a standard space into a modern, functional, and nice kitchen. This renovation not only enhances daily living but also adds significant value to the property. The kitchen has good materials, new appliances, and attention to detail. This makes it a standout feature of the home.

Kitchen with mixed hardwood flooring from 1880s barn. Exposed original Hemlock beams and ceiling components. Authentic bead board (vertical) Douglas Fir walls (painted). Custom Quarter Sawn White Oak inset cabinets (furniture style). Quarter Sawn White Oak kitchen trim. Hand-cut stone corner fireplace and surround (gas, log set). Granite countertops. Island and peninsula. Big Chill retro refrigerator. Ilve Italian Tuscan range (duel fuel). Best high-capacity range ventilating hood. Large Marvin Ultimate Signature casement window systems. ThermoTru insulated main door. Miele dishwasher. 1 hp Insinkerator garbage disposal. Large Ruvati stainless sink with offset drain. California faucet (farm bridge design). Part of the meticulous restoration of Giant View, a historic 1940s Adirondack camp compound on 20 private acres in Keene Valley, NY. This legacy High Peaks estate is currently available for acquisition. Architectural inquiries and private viewing arrangements are welcome. For additional details, the property listing is available on the Merrill L. Thomas agency website at www.adirondackestates.com (MLS# 202597); email: dominika@adirondackestates.com

Complete Kitchen Remodel in Morrisville: Project Overview Project Location: New House in Morrisville Project Goal: Full kitchen remodel to modernize and enhance functionality. Renovation Details: Flooring: Installation of new, beautiful hardwood flooring providing a warm and elegant foundation for the kitchen. Cabinetry: Fitting of new gray cabinets, offering a contemporary look and ample storage. Lighting: Recessed lighting installed for a clean, streamlined look. Stylish pendant lights over the island, adding a focal point and ambient lighting. Appliances: Installing all-new, modern kitchen appliances for enhanced efficiency and style. Installation of a 48-inch gas cooktop with a powerful range hood, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Seamless integration of an electric oven and microwave into the cabinetry. Inclusion of essential amenities like a garbage disposal and dishwasher for convenience. Backsplash: Black large-format hexagon tiles installed on the backsplash, adding a unique and sophisticated aesthetic. Electrical and Plumbing: Installation of all electrical outlets to meet current safety standards. Installation of new plumbing fixtures, ensuring functionality and modern design. Project Outcome: This kitchen remodel is complete. It has successfully turned a standard space into a modern, functional, and nice kitchen. This renovation not only enhances daily living but also adds significant value to the property. The kitchen has good materials, new appliances, and attention to detail. This makes it a standout feature of the home.

Check out thoroughly the policies stated by the roofing providers. If the roofing company offers an insurance coverage, you must go for it. While installing the roofs or updating them, enough waterproofing must be provided to the roof in order to combat the harsh weather conditions. The roof must be weather resistant. The process of selecting a residential roofing contractor can be a daunting task whether you are constructing a new home or you are simply remodeling your current one. In you are planning to replace the entire roof or do a roof replacement Auckland project as a result of tornado damage, you can be sure that you are going to be spending more money than a simple roofing repair was going to cost. Thankfully, there are fast and easy tips you can employ to find the best contractor to do your residential roofing. You want to start by looking for expert advice from people who do the business or any other homeowners that you know who may have used the services of a roofing contractor in the recent past. Most roofing companies have websites that you can easily browse through. You could also easily find links to online phonebooks that contain a comprehensive list of roof replacement Auckland companies. It is a good thing to take note that roofing projects come in their different forms and styles; there are people who install roofs just to cover the home from the elements while others are aiming at increase the value of their property in readiness for the market. For more info, visit our https://proroofingco.wixsite.com/affordableroofing

Complete Kitchen Remodel in Morrisville: Project Overview Project Location: New House in Morrisville Project Goal: Full kitchen remodel to modernize and enhance functionality. Renovation Details: Flooring: Installation of new, beautiful hardwood flooring providing a warm and elegant foundation for the kitchen. Cabinetry: Fitting of new gray cabinets, offering a contemporary look and ample storage. Lighting: Recessed lighting installed for a clean, streamlined look. Stylish pendant lights over the island, adding a focal point and ambient lighting. Appliances: Installing all-new, modern kitchen appliances for enhanced efficiency and style. Installation of a 48-inch gas cooktop with a powerful range hood, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Seamless integration of an electric oven and microwave into the cabinetry. Inclusion of essential amenities like a garbage disposal and dishwasher for convenience. Backsplash: Black large-format hexagon tiles installed on the backsplash, adding a unique and sophisticated aesthetic. Electrical and Plumbing: Installation of all electrical outlets to meet current safety standards. Installation of new plumbing fixtures, ensuring functionality and modern design. Project Outcome: This kitchen remodel is complete. It has successfully turned a standard space into a modern, functional, and nice kitchen. This renovation not only enhances daily living but also adds significant value to the property. The kitchen has good materials, new appliances, and attention to detail. This makes it a standout feature of the home.

Kitchen with mixed hardwood flooring from 1880s barn. Exposed original Hemlock beams and ceiling components. Authentic bead board (vertical) Douglas Fir walls (painted). Custom Quarter Sawn White Oak inset cabinets (furniture style). Quarter Sawn White Oak kitchen trim. Hand-cut stone corner fireplace and surround (gas, log set). Granite countertops. Island and peninsula. Big Chill retro refrigerator. Ilve Italian Tuscan range (duel fuel). Best high-capacity range ventilating hood. Large Marvin Ultimate Signature casement window systems. ThermoTru insulated main door. Miele dishwasher. 1 hp Insinkerator garbage disposal. Large Ruvati stainless sink with offset drain. California faucet (farm bridge design). Part of the meticulous restoration of Giant View, a historic 1940s Adirondack camp compound on 20 private acres in Keene Valley, NY. This legacy High Peaks estate is currently available for acquisition. Architectural inquiries and private viewing arrangements are welcome. For additional details, the property listing is available on the Merrill L. Thomas agency website at www.adirondackestates.com (MLS# 202597); email: dominika@adirondackestates.com