Our client purchased what had been a custom home built in 1973 on a high bank waterfront lot. They did their due diligence with respect to the septic system, well and the existing underground fuel tank but little did they know, they had purchased a house that would fit into the Three Little Pigs Story book. The original idea was to do a thorough cosmetic remodel to bring the home up to date using all high durability/low maintenance materials and provide the homeowners with a flexible floor plan that would allow them to live in the home for as long as they chose to, not how long the home would allow them to stay safely. However, there was one structure element that had to change, the staircase. The staircase blocked the beautiful water/mountain few from the kitchen and part of the dining room. It also bisected the second-floor master suite creating a maze of small dysfunctional rooms with a very narrow (and unsafe) top stair landing. In the process of redesigning the stairs and reviewing replacement options for the 1972 custom milled one inch thick cupped and cracked cedar siding, it was discovered that the house had no seismic support and that the dining/family room/hot tub room and been a poorly constructed addition and required significant structural reinforcement. It should be noted that it is not uncommon for this home to be subjected to 60-100 mile an hour winds and that the geographic area is in a known earthquake zone. Once the structural engineering was complete, the redesign of the home became an open pallet. The homeowners top requests included: no additional square footage, accessibility, high durability/low maintenance materials, high performance mechanicals and appliances, water and energy efficient fixtures and equipment and improved lighting incorporated into: two master suites (one upstairs and one downstairs), a healthy kitchen (appliances that preserve fresh food nutrients and materials that minimize bacterial growth), accessible bathing and toileting, functionally designed closets and storage, a multi-purpose laundry room, an exercise room, a functionally designed home office, a catio (second floor balcony on the front of the home), with an exterior that was not just code compliant but beautiful and easy to maintain. All of this was achieved and more. The finished project speaks for itself.

Our client purchased what had been a custom home built in 1973 on a high bank waterfront lot. They did their due diligence with respect to the septic system, well and the existing underground fuel tank but little did they know, they had purchased a house that would fit into the Three Little Pigs Story book. The original idea was to do a thorough cosmetic remodel to bring the home up to date using all high durability/low maintenance materials and provide the homeowners with a flexible floor plan that would allow them to live in the home for as long as they chose to, not how long the home would allow them to stay safely. However, there was one structure element that had to change, the staircase. The staircase blocked the beautiful water/mountain few from the kitchen and part of the dining room. It also bisected the second-floor master suite creating a maze of small dysfunctional rooms with a very narrow (and unsafe) top stair landing. In the process of redesigning the stairs and reviewing replacement options for the 1972 custom milled one inch thick cupped and cracked cedar siding, it was discovered that the house had no seismic support and that the dining/family room/hot tub room and been a poorly constructed addition and required significant structural reinforcement. It should be noted that it is not uncommon for this home to be subjected to 60-100 mile an hour winds and that the geographic area is in a known earthquake zone. Once the structural engineering was complete, the redesign of the home became an open pallet. The homeowners top requests included: no additional square footage, accessibility, high durability/low maintenance materials, high performance mechanicals and appliances, water and energy efficient fixtures and equipment and improved lighting incorporated into: two master suites (one upstairs and one downstairs), a healthy kitchen (appliances that preserve fresh food nutrients and materials that minimize bacterial growth), accessible bathing and toileting, functionally designed closets and storage, a multi-purpose laundry room, an exercise room, a functionally designed home office, a catio (second floor balcony on the front of the home), with an exterior that was not just code compliant but beautiful and easy to maintain. All of this was achieved and more. The finished project speaks for itself.

Reflecting the superb craftsmanship of Mike Schaap Builders and diligent design of Benchmark Design Studio, this distinctive lakeside residence honors its nautical nature and masterfully balances timeless architecture with classic lake home sentiments. Photo credit: Dan Zeeff

This is our second project for these clients. We have now renovated ¾ of their home. This project’s goal was to segregate the work area from the private area. They have a professional recording studio, so our team worked around the recording schedule throughout the project to accommodate this. Because of our team’s diligence, we received a glowing review from our client.

Living beyond the walls of your home outdoors should look fabulous, entertain fabulously and taste fabulous too. First and foremost on the menu is this WOOD STONE Home Outdoor Pizza Oven. The Wood Stone Chuck a nut Pizza oven is the best there is for Family and Friends to spend endless hours outdoors celebrating life beyond just Grilling. http://outdoorlivingdesignerct.com/2015/07/04/its-the-toppings-on-the-pizza-oven-that-makes-outdoor-living-taste-fabulous/ For more Great Outdoor Kitchen ideas go to www.OutdoorKitchenDesigner.com to visit THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE. The installation of this propane fired Outdoor pizza oven requires due diligence from many professional tradesman including the propane fuel connection, electric service, carpentry, stucco, grease exhaust fan, copper flashing and chimney duct work in addition to the stone work and finish details. Outdoor living fabulously designer shares secret success of the trendy niche of Luxury Outdoor living. Michael Gotowala founder of The Outdoor Kitchen Design Store shows us that the recipe for living outdoors fabulously is to understand the lifestyle and comfort level of each family member indoors and portray some of that lifestyle outdoors. It results in endless hours spent outdoors. Watch the start of this Wood Stone pizza oven get craned into the side wall of the pool house. WOODSTONE PIZZA OVEN all part of the living fabulously https://youtube/OOteE10-PRQ

An absolute residential fantasy. This custom modern Blue Heron home with a diligent vision- completely curated FF&E inspired by water, organic materials, plenty of textures, and nods to Chanel couture tweeds and craftsmanship. Custom lighting, furniture, mural wallcovering, and more. This is just a sneak peek, with more to come. This most humbling accomplishment is due to partnerships with THE MOST FANTASTIC CLIENTS, perseverance of some of the best industry professionals pushing through in the midst of a pandemic.

Our challenge was to transform key areas of this home that were somewhat ignored in a previous renovation. Located in the heart of Larkspur, the reveal was a bright and modern home that marries seamlessly with the rest of the updates. This home is a Historical Landmark, so we worked diligently to honor and protect the architecture and history as we design updates to the Entry, Stairs, Living Room and Dining Room. Splashes of color, texture, pattern, and shine were introduced to add charisma and breath new life. Now, the entire home serves all aspects of life for this happy family.

We are delighted to showcase one of our latest projects, a remarkable affordable luxury minimalist home located in a bustling Sydney inner suburb. This project is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional architectural design and building services, tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Situated along a busy road, we understood the importance of creating a tranquil oasis for our client. Our focus was on providing a high level of acoustic insulation to ensure peace and serenity within the home. To achieve this, we utilized Hebel panel walls, known for their excellent soundproofing properties, and installed double-glazed windows throughout the residence. The result is a home that offers an unparalleled sense of quietude, shielded from the noise of the bustling city streets. This emphasis on acoustic insulation highlights our dedication to creating a peaceful and harmonious living environment for our clients. The design of this affordable luxury home is a beautiful fusion of modernity and minimalism, exuding sophistication and elegance. We believe that luxury can be accessible without compromising on quality or design, and this project exemplifies just that. The open-plan layout maximizes space and natural light, creating an airy and inviting ambiance throughout the home. Every aspect of the architecture was carefully curated to optimize functionality and aesthetics, reflecting the client's vision and lifestyle. ​Our team of skilled architects and builders worked diligently to ensure that every detail of the home was meticulously crafted to perfection. We collaborated closely with our client to understand their unique needs and preferences, allowing us to create a custom-designed home that truly embodies their individuality.

For more than 25 years, Michael Molthan Luxury Homes has worked diligently earning a reputation for excellence in building luxury residences. Founded by Michael Molthan whose dream was to raise the building standards in the Dallas/Ft. Worth are, today Michael Molthan Luxury Homes builds quality and livability into every home we build.

These Biltmore Lake homeowners were looking to customize and update their newly purchased property, turning it into a home all their own. The Hands of Sean Perry Co. worked diligently to renovate four of the home’s bathrooms and create a new, additional en suite bath. In the living room, the team designed and constructed a new fireplace facade with built-in bookcases — and, in the basement, a stunning new focal wall was designed and installed to draw visitors’ attention. Outside, the entryway was given a facelift with new and striking doors. In addition to the home renovations, the team built a brand-new detached garage on the property.

We are delighted to showcase one of our latest projects, a remarkable affordable luxury minimalist home located in a bustling Sydney inner suburb. This project is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional architectural design and building services, tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Situated along a busy road, we understood the importance of creating a tranquil oasis for our client. Our focus was on providing a high level of acoustic insulation to ensure peace and serenity within the home. To achieve this, we utilized Hebel panel walls, known for their excellent soundproofing properties, and installed double-glazed windows throughout the residence. The result is a home that offers an unparalleled sense of quietude, shielded from the noise of the bustling city streets. This emphasis on acoustic insulation highlights our dedication to creating a peaceful and harmonious living environment for our clients. The design of this affordable luxury home is a beautiful fusion of modernity and minimalism, exuding sophistication and elegance. We believe that luxury can be accessible without compromising on quality or design, and this project exemplifies just that. The open-plan layout maximizes space and natural light, creating an airy and inviting ambiance throughout the home. Every aspect of the architecture was carefully curated to optimize functionality and aesthetics, reflecting the client's vision and lifestyle. ​Our team of skilled architects and builders worked diligently to ensure that every detail of the home was meticulously crafted to perfection. We collaborated closely with our client to understand their unique needs and preferences, allowing us to create a custom-designed home that truly embodies their individuality.

HK Design Studio aims to provide creative, exceptional landscape designs that reflect the clients style and budget. Owner, Heather Koermer, is a licensed landscape architect on who will provide you with a complete and professional set of plans. Our job is to give the client a product that suits their needs, wants, and style. We strive to create comfortable outdoor rooms that are designed to complement each client’s style. Each project is unique and given the personal attention to detail. A person’s garden should be an extension of their home. Working in the industry since 1996, Heather started her own firm with the express intent of sharing her passion and knowledge with her clients. She is diligent and works in all phases of the projects from initial meetings, concepts, working drawings through construction observation. Let us share our passion for landscaping while providing you with a complete package to see your dreams fulfilled!

Captivated by South Haven’s natural charm and waterfront beauty, this storybook, waterfront abode is exceptionally true to its lakefront character. Featuring over 3,600 square feet with five bedroom and three-and-a-half baths, the careful design of this open and charming layout paired with grand views from nearly every room, capture all the warmth and playfulness of lakefront living. • A beach friendly fiber cement siding in a cheerful shade of blue blends seamlessly with the water backdrop, while contrasting white trim and darker blue window clad lend definition to the exterior. • An impressive kitchen with stunning Ann Sachs tile backsplash, quartz countertops, richly stained bistro table and Viking Appliances overlook the generous, but clearly defined, living and dining rooms. • Extensive built-ins with extra storage and workspace, such as a distinctive dining serving piece featuring quartz stone and a lake reflecting mirror, maximize space and make entertaining a breeze. • Playful design elements like Thibaut wallpaper, braided hemp cabinet insets and white-washed European white oak floors complement the home’s coastal flair with nautical décor and warm hues. • Fine finishes and rich trim details including wainscot, various painted ceilings, louvered doors on cabinetry, and fireplace surround with kitchen coordinating quartz stone, show off the intricate design gestures. • Skillfully designed upstairs presents a restful master retreat with private balcony, two guest bedrooms, convenient laundry featuring sleek retractable doors and space maximizing built in bunk beds with ultra-clever steps that provide storage. • The lower level’s extra guest quarters, additional laundry, full beach bath with top-to-bottom tiled shower, diligent kitchenette, beach-friendly stained concrete floors, outdoor shower that keeps sand at bay, and direct access to the sugary sands of Lake Michigan. Photography by Chuck Heiney

HK Design Studio aims to provide creative, exceptional landscape designs that reflect the clients style and budget. Owner, Heather Koermer, is a licensed landscape architect on who will provide you with a complete and professional set of plans. Our job is to give the client a product that suits their needs, wants, and style. We strive to create comfortable outdoor rooms that are designed to complement each client’s style. Each project is unique and given the personal attention to detail. A person’s garden should be an extension of their home. Working in the industry since 1996, Heather started her own firm with the express intent of sharing her passion and knowledge with her clients. She is diligent and works in all phases of the projects from initial meetings, concepts, working drawings through construction observation. Let us share our passion for landscaping while providing you with a complete package to see your dreams fulfilled!

Rob Fisher, principal, and builder, has built new homes in the Northern Virginia area for almost 25 years. He has overseen the design, development, construction, and customer satisfaction of some of the most exclusive communities and reputable builders in the area. He began his career with Foley Custom Homes in Vienna, VA before moving on to serve as a supervisor for NVR. In 1986 he joined A&A Partnership in Alexandria, Virginia. As Construction Manager, he was responsible for Harborside, a waterfront community of luxury townhouses in the heart of Old Town. In 1994 Rob joined Pulte Homes to open StoneRidge Builders, a division of Pulte Homes offering high end, semi-custom homes to the Mid Atlantic market. Under StoneRidge Builders, Rob oversaw such notable projects as McLean Hundred (McLean); Ashgrove Plantation & Clarks Crossing (Vienna); and Timberlake and Windsong Estates (Oakton). Rob led Pulte’s efforts in establishing themselves as the undisputed leader in customer satisfaction. During his tenure as Vice President of Customer Relations for the Mid-Atlantic Region, Pulte won an unprecedented five JD Power and Associates New Home Customer Satisfaction Awards. The experiences and lessons learned in building some of the most exclusive projects in Northern Virginia, while creating an industry benchmark in customer satisfaction, helped create the foundation upon which Fisher Custom Homes was established. In 2010, Rob decided to turn his passion for building homes into a personal business, and Fisher Custom Homes was born. Over the course of the last several years, Rob has worked diligently to establish himself as one of the most prestigious and sought-after custom home builders in the Vienna, VA and surrounding areas. Rob’s quality, attention to detail and personal touch has earned him a reputation as the ‘builder of choice’ among his peers, his homeowners, and prospective buyers.

An absolute residential fantasy. This custom modern Blue Heron home with a diligent vision- completely curated FF&E inspired by water, organic materials, plenty of textures, and nods to Chanel couture tweeds and craftsmanship. Custom lighting, furniture, mural wallcovering, and more. This is just a sneak peek, with more to come. This most humbling accomplishment is due to partnerships with THE MOST FANTASTIC CLIENTS, perseverance of some of the best industry professionals pushing through in the midst of a pandemic.

Photography by Caryn B. Davis Located in the Cornfield Point area of Old Saybrook along Long Island Sound, this project brought a classic, yet forgotten beach house back to life. Through a little detective work and some creative ingenuity, we restored and enhanced the exterior to it’s former glory and transformed the interior to a highly efficient and functional home all the while uplifting its quaint cottage charm. On the exterior, we recreated a wonderful, airy front porch with cozy bench seats that look out to the water. The white cedar shingle siding is pre-bleached with a subtle flair at the bottom and a delicate break at mid-elevation. The asphalt shingles are not only beautifully matched with the siding, but offer superior reflective qualities to dissipate the heat of the summer sun. On the interior, we joined the front seasonal porch with the family room to form a larger, open living and dining space with paneled walls and ceilings anchored by the original round stone fireplace. In the rear, we carefully crafted a galley kitchen and laundry space with an adjacent first floor master suite. The diminutive house and property posed multiple practical and regulatory challenges which were overcome by a strong team effort, due diligence, and a commitment to the process. John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

HK Design Studio aims to provide creative, exceptional landscape designs that reflect the clients style and budget. Owner, Heather Koermer, is a licensed landscape architect on who will provide you with a complete and professional set of plans. Our job is to give the client a product that suits their needs, wants, and style. We strive to create comfortable outdoor rooms that are designed to complement each client’s style. Each project is unique and given the personal attention to detail. A person’s garden should be an extension of their home. Working in the industry since 1996, Heather started her own firm with the express intent of sharing her passion and knowledge with her clients. She is diligent and works in all phases of the projects from initial meetings, concepts, working drawings through construction observation. Let us share our passion for landscaping while providing you with a complete package to see your dreams fulfilled!