After devastating flooding damaged the entire first floor and left the walls stripped to the studs, we had the rare opportunity to completely reimagine the kitchen, dining room, family room, and butler’s pantry. The kitchen received an entirely new footprint—removing the dividing wall opened the space dramatically and improved flow and functionality. The former butler’s pantry was transformed into a dedicated beverage center and coffee bar, creating a hard-working hub for daily routines. In the casual dining area, we added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that expanded pantry storage and created a hidden “locker” for the kids’ homework, backpacks, and everyday essentials. In the family room, the outdated media niche was replaced with custom built-ins, adding architectural detail and much-needed storage, and the fireplace received a complete facelift to bring the whole room up to date. The result is a cohesive, modernized first floor designed for real family living—open, functional, and beautifully renewed.

After devastating flooding damaged the entire first floor and left the walls stripped to the studs, we had the rare opportunity to completely reimagine the kitchen, dining room, family room, and butler’s pantry. The kitchen received an entirely new footprint—removing the dividing wall opened the space dramatically and improved flow and functionality. The former butler’s pantry was transformed into a dedicated beverage center and coffee bar, creating a hard-working hub for daily routines. In the casual dining area, we added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that expanded pantry storage and created a hidden “locker” for the kids’ homework, backpacks, and everyday essentials. In the family room, the outdated media niche was replaced with custom built-ins, adding architectural detail and much-needed storage, and the fireplace received a complete facelift to bring the whole room up to date. The result is a cohesive, modernized first floor designed for real family living—open, functional, and beautifully renewed.

After devastating flooding damaged the entire first floor and left the walls stripped to the studs, we had the rare opportunity to completely reimagine the kitchen, dining room, family room, and butler’s pantry. The kitchen received an entirely new footprint—removing the dividing wall opened the space dramatically and improved flow and functionality. The former butler’s pantry was transformed into a dedicated beverage center and coffee bar, creating a hard-working hub for daily routines. In the casual dining area, we added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that expanded pantry storage and created a hidden “locker” for the kids’ homework, backpacks, and everyday essentials. In the family room, the outdated media niche was replaced with custom built-ins, adding architectural detail and much-needed storage, and the fireplace received a complete facelift to bring the whole room up to date. The result is a cohesive, modernized first floor designed for real family living—open, functional, and beautifully renewed.

After devastating flooding damaged the entire first floor and left the walls stripped to the studs, we had the rare opportunity to completely reimagine the kitchen, dining room, family room, and butler’s pantry. The kitchen received an entirely new footprint—removing the dividing wall opened the space dramatically and improved flow and functionality. The former butler’s pantry was transformed into a dedicated beverage center and coffee bar, creating a hard-working hub for daily routines. In the casual dining area, we added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that expanded pantry storage and created a hidden “locker” for the kids’ homework, backpacks, and everyday essentials. In the family room, the outdated media niche was replaced with custom built-ins, adding architectural detail and much-needed storage, and the fireplace received a complete facelift to bring the whole room up to date. The result is a cohesive, modernized first floor designed for real family living—open, functional, and beautifully renewed.

After devastating flooding damaged the entire first floor and left the walls stripped to the studs, we had the rare opportunity to completely reimagine the kitchen, dining room, family room, and butler’s pantry. The kitchen received an entirely new footprint—removing the dividing wall opened the space dramatically and improved flow and functionality. The former butler’s pantry was transformed into a dedicated beverage center and coffee bar, creating a hard-working hub for daily routines. In the casual dining area, we added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that expanded pantry storage and created a hidden “locker” for the kids’ homework, backpacks, and everyday essentials. In the family room, the outdated media niche was replaced with custom built-ins, adding architectural detail and much-needed storage, and the fireplace received a complete facelift to bring the whole room up to date. The result is a cohesive, modernized first floor designed for real family living—open, functional, and beautifully renewed.

After devastating flooding damaged the entire first floor and left the walls stripped to the studs, we had the rare opportunity to completely reimagine the kitchen, dining room, family room, and butler’s pantry. The kitchen received an entirely new footprint—removing the dividing wall opened the space dramatically and improved flow and functionality. The former butler’s pantry was transformed into a dedicated beverage center and coffee bar, creating a hard-working hub for daily routines. In the casual dining area, we added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that expanded pantry storage and created a hidden “locker” for the kids’ homework, backpacks, and everyday essentials. In the family room, the outdated media niche was replaced with custom built-ins, adding architectural detail and much-needed storage, and the fireplace received a complete facelift to bring the whole room up to date. The result is a cohesive, modernized first floor designed for real family living—open, functional, and beautifully renewed.

After devastating flooding damaged the entire first floor and left the walls stripped to the studs, we had the rare opportunity to completely reimagine the kitchen, dining room, family room, and butler’s pantry. The kitchen received an entirely new footprint—removing the dividing wall opened the space dramatically and improved flow and functionality. The former butler’s pantry was transformed into a dedicated beverage center and coffee bar, creating a hard-working hub for daily routines. In the casual dining area, we added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that expanded pantry storage and created a hidden “locker” for the kids’ homework, backpacks, and everyday essentials. In the family room, the outdated media niche was replaced with custom built-ins, adding architectural detail and much-needed storage, and the fireplace received a complete facelift to bring the whole room up to date. The result is a cohesive, modernized first floor designed for real family living—open, functional, and beautifully renewed.

Winter view of Luna fountain. Photo taken by Barbara Wilson, RLA A small residential, seaside property located on Saugatuck Island in Wesport was rebuilt after devastating damage by a hurricane. All that remained from the original property was the pool and pool terrace. The house was raised approximately 5 feet to meet new FEMA codes and rebuilt under the design team of the owner, a well-known interior designer. Barbara was part of the landscape architectural team that helped create a sense of place for the new house. The landscape design included the addition of new walls and steps to the front door, new custom fencing surrounding the pool, an outdoor shower, landscape lighting, a custom fountain in the back yard, a sandbox (used as a relief area for the dog) and all new plantings. She coordinating obtaining bids and then supervised installation of the project.

Custom colored Luna Fountain (urn) with matching bench set on granite pavers with gravel mulch. Photo taken by Barbara Wilson, RLA A small residential, seaside property located on Saugatuck Island in Wesport was rebuilt after devastating damage by a hurricane. All that remained from the original property was the pool and pool terrace. The house was raised approximately 5 feet to meet new FEMA codes and rebuilt under the design team of the owner, a well-known interior designer. Barbara was part of the landscape architectural team that helped create a sense of place for the new house. The landscape design included the addition of new walls and steps to the front door, new custom fencing surrounding the pool, an outdoor shower, landscape lighting, a custom fountain in the back yard, a sandbox (used as a relief area for the dog) and all new plantings. She coordinating obtaining bids and then supervised installation of the project.

Project Spotlight: Century-Old Mediterranean Revival in South Tampa When Hurricane Helene flooded this stunning 100-year-old Mediterranean home in South Tampa, it took a devastating toll on a true piece of Tampa history. After the flood damage, the home sold to new owners with a bold vision — a complete top-to-bottom transformation worthy of its historic character. Nelson Construction & Renovations was brought in to make that vision a reality. At 6,000 square feet, this was no small undertaking. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to honor the home's Mediterranean roots while delivering the luxury and functionality a modern family expects. The living spaces were reimagined with new archways featuring classic bullnose corners, authentic limewash walls, coffered ceilings with architectural LED lighting, and custom arched French doors that bathe the interior in natural Florida light. The chef's kitchen received a full transformation with custom cabinetry, a butler's pantry, and all new appliances. The master suite became a private retreat complete with a custom arched glass shower door and a luxurious Mr. Steam shower system. Throughout the home, engineered hardwood floors, custom built-ins, and an outdoor patio kitchen complete a renovation that beautifully bridges a century of history with modern South Tampa luxury living.

PROFESSIONAL CHESAPEAKE TREE SERVICES OF ALL TPYES Our staff at Tracstar Tree Experts are dedicated to the preservation and health of Chesapeake trees; however, situations arise when a Chesapeake tree needs to be removed due to risk of property damage or safety concerns. Tracstar Tree Experts team is highly trained in all tree service Chesapeake, our rigging systems allow us to remove Chesapeake trees on or around properties in awkward positions. In addition, losing a tree can be very devastating for a property owner so we try to make the process as seamless and painless as possible. After your Chesapeake tree has been removed, having your stump removed is also an option we provide every customer. We have the equipment and expertise to safely remove your stump.

Salt tolerant plantings with minimal lawn in the front yard. Photo taken by Barbara Wilson, RLA A small residential, seaside property located on Saugatuck Island in Wesport was rebuilt after devastating damage by a hurricane. All that remained from the original property was the pool and pool terrace. The house was raised approximately 5 feet to meet new FEMA codes and rebuilt under the design team of the owner, a well-known interior designer. Barbara was part of the landscape architectural team that helped create a sense of place for the new house. The landscape design included the addition of new walls and steps to the front door, new custom fencing surrounding the pool, an outdoor shower, landscape lighting, a custom fountain in the back yard, a sandbox (used as a relief area for the dog) and all new plantings. She coordinating obtaining bids and then supervised installation of the project.

Bernard Andre'
Inspiration for a large modern beige two-story stone flat roof remodel in San Francisco

Great spacious bathroom with lot of amenities. Photographer: Jon Upson
Large elegant master beige tile and porcelain tile drop-in bathtub photo in San Diego with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige walls and a two-piece toilet

Tucked away in the backwoods of Torch Lake, this home marries “rustic” with the sleek elegance of modern. The combination of wood, stone and metal textures embrace the charm of a classic farmhouse. Although this is not your average farmhouse. The home is outfitted with a high performing system that seamlessly works with the design and architecture. The tall ceilings and windows allow ample natural light into the main room. Spire Integrated Systems installed Lutron QS Wireless motorized shades paired with Hartmann & Forbes windowcovers to offer privacy and block harsh light. The custom 18′ windowcover’s woven natural fabric complements the organic esthetics of the room. The shades are artfully concealed in the millwork when not in use. Spire installed B&W in-ceiling speakers and Sonance invisible in-wall speakers to deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint. Spire also installed a Sonance Landscape Audio System so the homeowner can enjoy music outside. Each system is easily controlled using Savant. Spire personalized the settings to the homeowner’s preference making controlling the home efficient and convenient.

Natural Sisal Carpet runner on wood staircase. Neutral colour carpet and edging, Custom work.
Example of an island style carpeted straight staircase design in Toronto with carpeted risers

TruCedar Steel Siding shown in 10" Board & Batten in Napa Vine.
Beige two-story metal exterior home idea in Grand Rapids

Chris Golden
Inspiration for a transitional carpeted living room remodel in Phoenix with beige walls, a standard fireplace and a tile fireplace

The ‘Family Tree’ fireplace screen was commissioned by the property’s owners who were devastated by the loss of a magnificent 200 year old maple tree; eager to pay tribute to the beauty and joy it had provided to them and to the generations preceding who had passed the seasons under its boughs. Inspiration: This tree marked a homestead, sheltered a family, enlivened a neighborhood, and harbored the stories of generations. This was the inspiration for 'Family Tree'. In the course of the design process, it became apparent that the tree was not only an object of beauty, but also a reliquary of family memories. “I feel as though that tree defined the personality of this old, historic house; if it could speak, the stories it would tell,” the client asserted. ‘Family Tree’ weaves a joyful metal tapestry of images and references. A skull and cross bones speak to the legend of Capt’n Kidd and buried treasure (somewhere still to be found on the property!). An iconic wishing well stands filled with legendary stories, real and mostly imagined. A split rail fence defines the front yard with its Great Tree. Initials carved into its massive trunk celebrate generations of grandparents, parents, three adventurous boys and the family dog. References to an active life on the water abound. In this tableau, the blessings of family life are the real hidden treasure. Specifications: “Family Tree” is a 4' x 5' custom fireplace screen. The client selected a bright sanded finish for the imagery, accomplished by grinding the surface revealing a natural steel luster; then hand rubbed with wax to maintain this brilliant finish. The frame stands in contrast with a blackened patina finish. Photo Credit: Edwina Stevenson & Sandra Vlock