Feature In: Visit Miami Beach Magazine & Island Living A nice young couple contacted us from Brazil to decorate their newly acquired apartment. We schedule a meeting through Skype and from the very first moment we had a very good feeling this was going to be a nice project and people to work with. We exchanged some ideas, comments, images and we explained to them how we were used to worked with clients overseas and how important was to keep communication opened. They main concerned was to find a solution for a giant structure leaning column in the main room, as well as how to make the kitchen, dining and living room work together in one considerably small space with few dimensions. Whether it was a holiday home or a place to rent occasionally, the requirements were simple, Scandinavian style, accent colors and low investment, and so we did it. Once the proposal was signed, we got down to work and in two months the apartment was ready to welcome them with nice scented candles, flowers and delicious Mojitos from their spectacular view at the 41th floor of one of Miami's most modern and tallest building. Rolando Diaz Photography

Photo: Ten Ten Creative
Wet bar - transitional single-wall dark wood floor and brown floor wet bar idea in Dallas with shaker cabinets, black cabinets, black backsplash, subway tile backsplash and gray countertops

Scott Fincher. It started with a common complaint and in phases became a signature solution reflecting Digital Home Technologies motto: “We manage your most valuable asset – your free time.” You know the feeling. You reach for your audio/video remote control and immediately experience button aggravation or, worse, malfunctioning. This is what frustrated a Northwest suburban homeowner and his family. The remote was their enemy. It had turned music or video fun into a struggle. The solution: Installation of ELAN g!, the innovative, award-winning multiroom audio/video and home control system. ELAN seamlessly combines music, TV and telephone-based features such as intercom and paging to create a new kind of whole-house entertainment and communications experience. The system and its simple interface allow people to move room-to-room, controlling and accessing centrally located audio and video equipment with ease. And that is done with the touch of a finger on a smart phone, tablet or dedicated remote. No more hassle, but, wait, the story doesn’t end. The beauty of ELAN g! is that you can start with one solution and expand into others without draining your pocketbook. So impressed was the homeowner that a week after the initial installation, which included a system adding Internet music streaming and iTunes organization, he inquired about some of the other features of ELAN like controlling lighting and interior climate. The family travels a lot, and he wanted to be able to adjust the house from anywhere in the world. Simple. Phase 2 done. Phase 3: Because of the travelling, he had concerns about security of the home. Simple again – Digital Home added a camera and a digital recorder, ensuring peace of mind. What had started as a one-room remote turned this residence into a smart home over the course of two months. ELAN g! and Digital Home Technologies, partners in making life easy. Photography: Scott Fincher Photography Audio Video Integrator: Digital Home Technologies

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Large minimalist deck photo in Vancouver

For a long time, the kitchen was a functional room and was treated as such aesthetically. The best way to check clinical cleanliness was against a light background; built-in cupboards and kitchen appliances were clad appropriately in classic white. Today, the kitchen is more a place for us: a communicative living room and above all, a sensual living space. Its colours have been updated too. The trend towards darker shades in recent years, from dove grey to elegant black, can also be seen on work surfaces, front panels and walls. Lighting is the most important factor in dark interiors. Whereas there was a simple ceiling light in the past, today’s dramatic ambience is supported by strategically-placed spotlights and concealed LED strips. In keeping with a cosy atmosphere, individual areas are highlighted whilst others are left in darkness – and with an intelligent lighting system, the mood can be digitally controlled to match the time of day and atmosphere.

For a long time, the kitchen was a functional room and was treated as such aesthetically. The best way to check clinical cleanliness was against a light background; built-in cupboards and kitchen appliances were clad appropriately in classic white. Today, the kitchen is more a place for us: a communicative living room and above all, a sensual living space. Its colours have been updated too. The trend towards darker shades in recent years, from dove grey to elegant black, can also be seen on work surfaces, front panels and walls. Lighting is the most important factor in dark interiors. Whereas there was a simple ceiling light in the past, today’s dramatic ambience is supported by strategically-placed spotlights and concealed LED strips. In keeping with a cosy atmosphere, individual areas are highlighted whilst others are left in darkness – and with an intelligent lighting system, the mood can be digitally controlled to match the time of day and atmosphere.

For a long time, the kitchen was a functional room and was treated as such aesthetically. The best way to check clinical cleanliness was against a light background; built-in cupboards and kitchen appliances were clad appropriately in classic white. Today, the kitchen is more a place for us: a communicative living room and above all, a sensual living space. Its colours have been updated too. The trend towards darker shades in recent years, from dove grey to elegant black, can also be seen on work surfaces, front panels and walls. Lighting is the most important factor in dark interiors. Whereas there was a simple ceiling light in the past, today’s dramatic ambience is supported by strategically-placed spotlights and concealed LED strips. In keeping with a cosy atmosphere, individual areas are highlighted whilst others are left in darkness – and with an intelligent lighting system, the mood can be digitally controlled to match the time of day and atmosphere.

The longing for values, for what is genuine is becoming ever greater in a digitized world in which networking and mechanisation are becoming overpowering. In our personal environment, this is reflected in the search for the elegantly simple: people want to be surrounded by things which communicate calm, clarity and concentration on the essential. In conjunction with VALAIS LEICHT developed the new planning concept EVO.The seamless transition from worktop to fronts is sensational: the virtually invisible worktop with its surrounding metal edge has a flush finish with the fronts and gives the kitchen an exceedingly puristic air. The material mix too makes the ensemble all the more exciting: structured genuine wood meets velvety matt lacquer, the warm tone of the wood meets the cooler air of the carbon grey – a skilful combination of contrasts, also essential in the new planning concept.

Northern Michigan is the ultimate getaway destination with serene views and abundance of outdoor recreation. This remote Up North house offers nothing short of that. With the nearest major town almost 45 minutes away, it was essential this vacation home offered all the amenities for entertainment and relaxation. Spire worked with the client to create the perfect lake house retreat with comfort and convenience during any season or weather. The living room with an attached game room is a versatile space that offers endless entertainment. A 65” TV was installed over the fireplace in the custom stone wall. The adjustable mount allows the TV to lower for comfortable viewing from either the couch or pool table. A pair of Meridian Audio DSP7200 custom color matched speakers equipped with a Meridian Audio 218 digital controller were strategically installed on each side of the fireplace. The floor-standing speakers compliment the natural stone while providing astonishingly life-like sound, perfect for streaming live concerts. The powerful audio extends to the upper level of the home. Spire installed B&W 700 series bookshelf speakers in the executive office and a Triad custom speaker bar in the master bedroom. These speakers are ideal for smaller rooms, while elevating the TV experience. The large living room windows offer beautiful lake views and ample lighting. Lutron Palladiom shades were installed to easily control the natural light in the living room, master bedroom and bathroom. They are custom designed and fully automated to let in the morning sun or achieve partial shading or complete privacy. Whether set on a schedule or controlled from an iPad, the shades operate quietly and seamlessly. The technology was designed to be enjoyed just as much indoors as outdoors. With the whole home audio system, high-quality sound can flow throughout the indoor rooms as well as the outdoor patio. While the location may be remote, Spire ensured the WiFi and network connection is strong both throughout the yard and inside the home. A Lutron HomeWorks QS system integrates the control of all the interior and exterior lighting including motion sensing for the exterior pathway. Since this is not a permanent residence, a control and security system was very important. A personalized Savant system was integrated for full home control of lighting, climate, entertainment and security from anywhere with a smart device . This includes the ability to control the multiple landscape light zones with timed scenes. The Doorbird cameras and chimes with the integration of camera feeds into the Savant Control provides remote communication with visitors at any of the exterior doors. Remote access also allows rebooting of all essential systems from any location.

The longing for values, for what is genuine is becoming ever greater in a digitized world in which networking and mechanisation are becoming overpowering. In our personal environment, this is reflected in the search for the elegantly simple: people want to be surrounded by things which communicate calm, clarity and concentration on the essential. In conjunction with VALAIS LEICHT developed the new planning concept EVO.The seamless transition from worktop to fronts is sensational: the virtually invisible worktop with its surrounding metal edge has a flush finish with the fronts and gives the kitchen an exceedingly puristic air. The material mix too makes the ensemble all the more exciting: structured genuine wood meets velvety matt lacquer, the warm tone of the wood meets the cooler air of the carbon grey – a skilful combination of contrasts, also essential in the new planning concept.

Photography-Hedrich Blessing Glass House: The design objective was to build a house for my wife and three kids, looking forward in terms of how people live today. To experiment with transparency and reflectivity, removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. To construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. To tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with the nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the concrete beams support the steel beams; and in terms of how the entire house is enveloped in glass as if it was poured over the bones to make it skin tight. To engineer the house to be a smart house that not only looks modern, but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades/blinds, HVAC, communication/audio/video, or security. To develop a planning module based on a 16 foot square room size and a 8 foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The base of the interstitial spaces also become skylights for the basement gallery. This house is all about flexibility; the family room, was a nursery when the kids were infants, is a craft and media room now, and will be a family room when the time is right. Our rooms are all based on a 16’x16’ (4.8mx4.8m) module, so a bedroom, a kitchen, and a dining room are the same size and functions can easily change; only the furniture and the attitude needs to change. The house is 5,500 SF (550 SM)of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 8200 SF (820 SM). The mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hardscapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot.

WELCOME TO YOUR BATHROOM | IMO is the fitting for all those who would like to design their own bathroom. The series has a modern, hybrid form that fits into virtually any living environment. IMO makes good design your everyday companion. In digital communication, IMO is the common abbreviation for "In My Opinion". The name IMO invokes this phrase and puts the focus not on the fitting, but on the user's individual view of life. Their opinion, their taste and their individual style of furnishing shape the identity of the IMO series. The IMO series is uniquely versatile. This is also because the design unites two prevalent uses of form, combining a round body with a right-angled lever and spout. | Available at www.shopstudio41.com

Example of a mid-sized transitional freestanding desk dark wood floor and brown floor study room design in New York with beige walls and no fireplace

The longing for values, for what is genuine is becoming ever greater in a digitized world in which networking and mechanisation are becoming overpowering. In our personal environment, this is reflected in the search for the elegantly simple: people want to be surrounded by things which communicate calm, clarity and concentration on the essential. In conjunction with VALAIS LEICHT developed the new planning concept EVO.The seamless transition from worktop to fronts is sensational: the virtually invisible worktop with its surrounding metal edge has a flush finish with the fronts and gives the kitchen an exceedingly puristic air. The material mix too makes the ensemble all the more exciting: structured genuine wood meets velvety matt lacquer, the warm tone of the wood meets the cooler air of the carbon grey – a skilful combination of contrasts, also essential in the new planning concept.

The longing for values, for what is genuine is becoming ever greater in a digitized world in which networking and mechanisation are becoming overpowering. In our personal environment, this is reflected in the search for the elegantly simple: people want to be surrounded by things which communicate calm, clarity and concentration on the essential. In conjunction with VALAIS LEICHT developed the new planning concept EVO.The seamless transition from worktop to fronts is sensational: the virtually invisible worktop with its surrounding metal edge has a flush finish with the fronts and gives the kitchen an exceedingly puristic air. The material mix too makes the ensemble all the more exciting: structured genuine wood meets velvety matt lacquer, the warm tone of the wood meets the cooler air of the carbon grey – a skilful combination of contrasts, also essential in the new planning concept.

The longing for values, for what is genuine is becoming ever greater in a digitized world in which networking and mechanisation are becoming overpowering. In our personal environment, this is reflected in the search for the elegantly simple: people want to be surrounded by things which communicate calm, clarity and concentration on the essential. In conjunction with VALAIS LEICHT developed the new planning concept EVO.The seamless transition from worktop to fronts is sensational: the virtually invisible worktop with its surrounding metal edge has a flush finish with the fronts and gives the kitchen an exceedingly puristic air. The material mix too makes the ensemble all the more exciting: structured genuine wood meets velvety matt lacquer, the warm tone of the wood meets the cooler air of the carbon grey – a skilful combination of contrasts, also essential in the new planning concept.

The longing for values, for what is genuine is becoming ever greater in a digitized world in which networking and mechanisation are becoming overpowering. In our personal environment, this is reflected in the search for the elegantly simple: people want to be surrounded by things which communicate calm, clarity and concentration on the essential. In conjunction with VALAIS LEICHT developed the new planning concept EVO.The seamless transition from worktop to fronts is sensational: the virtually invisible worktop with its surrounding metal edge has a flush finish with the fronts and gives the kitchen an exceedingly puristic air. The material mix too makes the ensemble all the more exciting: structured genuine wood meets velvety matt lacquer, the warm tone of the wood meets the cooler air of the carbon grey – a skilful combination of contrasts, also essential in the new planning concept.

The longing for values, for what is genuine is becoming ever greater in a digitized world in which networking and mechanisation are becoming overpowering. In our personal environment, this is reflected in the search for the elegantly simple: people want to be surrounded by things which communicate calm, clarity and concentration on the essential. In conjunction with VALAIS LEICHT developed the new planning concept EVO.The seamless transition from worktop to fronts is sensational: the virtually invisible worktop with its surrounding metal edge has a flush finish with the fronts and gives the kitchen an exceedingly puristic air. The material mix too makes the ensemble all the more exciting: structured genuine wood meets velvety matt lacquer, the warm tone of the wood meets the cooler air of the carbon grey – a skilful combination of contrasts, also essential in the new planning concept.