This close-up view showcases the marble backsplash extending across the wall, paired with white shaker cabinetry for a timeless and elegant finish. A small drawer and upper cabinet detail highlight the clean lines of the custom millwork, while the stainless steel stove complements the overall design without distracting from the craftsmanship.

Using a chainsaw is a quick way to make work of fallen branches, damaged trees, and more. However, unless you have been plenty of experience, you may not be able to use this tool safely. For those who have never used a chainsaw before, it is a good idea to start with a lighter saw to prevent injury. It is also a good idea to enroll in a training course. If you plan to use a chainsaw in a professional company, it is even mandatory. Five Star Tree Services has created a quick guide that will help you decide if using a chainsaw is the best option for you. Chainsaw Maintenance Before you start using a chainsaw, you need to know if the blades are properly sharpened. Dull blades can cause jagged cuts or even cause injury. A sharp blade allows the saw to cut smoothly and produce straight cuts. The next step is to review is the cutting chain. It should be adjusted to the right tension, so the chain doesn’t move when the engine is idle. Make sure there are no loose screws and that the chain brake is in proper working order. Operating a Chainsaw Once you ensure that the chainsaw is safe to operate, it is time to get it started. Do you know the right amount of throttle and pressure to use? What about which cut would be best for your current project? Each type of cut will affect the wood differently, so it is important to keep these factors in mind when using a chainsaw. Situational awareness is also an important part of chainsaw use. No one should be within 10 feet while you are cutting. Also, avoid getting distracted by people seeking your attention since it only takes a second for a grave mistake to occur. Protection During Chainsaw Operation Proper protection is essential when operating machinery. When using a chainsaw, you should have on personal protection equipment such as; chainsaw pants, steel toe boots, gloves, ear protection, high visibility clothing, a helmet, and eye protection. All of these items should be in good working order and made from high-quality materials. Protecting your face, neck, chest, and abdomen is critical when working with any type of cutting tool. The best way to keep yourself protected while wearing your personal protective equipment (PPE) is to maintain control over the chainsaw. Gloves may reduce control for many people, but a firm stance and proper balance can work wonders for maintaining control. PPE usage is very important, but it is equally important not to get lulled into a false sense of security by wearing it. Practice Makes Perfect It is best to practice using your chainsaw before taking on big projects. This will help you learn to move your body and your head in a safe way and a way that supports a clean cut. Most often, work with chainsaws is completed on ground that is uneven or covered in obstacles. Practicing will ensure that you can adapt to your environment without risking damage to your property or bodily harm. How We Can Help Working with chainsaws can make tree care simpler, but without the proper training and protection, it can be hazardous. Instead of taking the risk, hire the professionals here at Five Star Tree Services for all of your Richmond Hill tree removal and tree care needs. Give us a call at (416) 990-3355 to find out more about our rates and services.

This rustic cabin in the woods is the perfect build for a day on the bay or curling up on the couch with a good book. The lush green landscapes paired with the many tall trees make for a relaxing atmosphere free of distractions. On the outdoor patio is a stainless-steel barbeque integrated into the stone wall creating a perfect space for outdoor summer barbequing. The kitchen of this Georgian Bay beauty uses both wooden beams and stone in different components of its design to create a very rustic feel. The Muskoka room in this cottage is classic from its wood, stone surrounded fireplace to the wooden trimmed ceilings and window views of the water, where guests are sure to reside. Flowing from the kitchen to the living room are rustic wooden walls that connect into structural beams that frame the tall ceilings. This cozy space will make you never want to leave! Tamarack North prides their company of professional engineers and builders passionate about serving Muskoka, Lake of Bays and Georgian Bay with fine seasonal homes.

Styling a console for a staged property requires a trained eye in order to add warmth and interest, while not distracting from the features of the property.

A modern, contemporary take on the popular farmhouse style, this open-concept kitchen, with separate pantry is a refreshing, bright space to raise a family. Materials selected with kids sticky fingers in mind! The well designed space boasts gold accents, stunning glass pendant lights to keep the kitchen vibe open and bright, and to not distract from the reclaimed barn beam used as a decorative element on the hood vent. The architectural embossed subway tile brings plenty of texture to a monochromatic space. A timeless design that can easily move through years of fashion trends without becoming dated.

For the tub, we knew there was a staircase behind the wall, but were surprised to find so much structural support. The original design (a single, longer niche) changed to 2 shorter niches with a Facetime call between designer and lead carpenter. We ended up keeping the ceiling heights, due to costs, but the design perspective draws the eye to the end of the bath without distraction. Tile work by Decker Design.

Kitchen Over 150K If you ever found yourself shopping for a new home, finding a model home, falling in love with this model home and immediately signing on the dotted line. Yet after a few months of moving into your new home you realize that the kitchen and the layout of main level will not work out for your lifestyle. The model home you fell in love with was furnished with beautiful furniture distracting you from concentrating on what is really important to you. This is what happened to this couple in Ashburn, VA, after purchasing their dream home. The kitchen lacked natural light, while its location was not ideal and was disrupting their daily routine. After a careful review of the kitchen design, a plan was formed to upgrade the kitchen. Their kitchen was moved to a location between the two-story family room and front dining room. To the left of the family room there was a breakfast eating area that was not serving any purpose. Our design incorporated the breakfast area placed along a couple feet from an adjacent pantry space to create this new dream kitchen. By knocking down a few bearing walls, we have placed the main sink area under large backside windows. Now the kitchen can look into their beautiful backyard. A major load bearing wall between the old breakfast room and adjacent two-story family was taken down and a big steel beam took the place of that, creating a large seamless connection between the new kitchen and the rest of the home. A large island was implemented with a prep sink, microwave, and with lots of seating space around it. Large scale professional appliances along with stunning mosaic backsplash tiles complement this amazing kitchen design. Double barn style door in front of the pantry area sets off this storage space tucked away from rest of the kitchen. All the old tile was removed and a matching wide plank distressed wood floor was installed to create a seamless connection to rest of the home. A matching butler pantry cabinet area just outside of dining room and a wine station/drink serving area between family room and main foyer were added to better utilize the multi-function needs of the family. The custom inset cabinetry with double layers and exotic stone counter top, distressed ceiling beams, and other amenities are just a few standouts of this project.

The phrase “Less is More” holds very true for this small master bathroom. With its neutral color scheme, clean lines, and linear fixtures, this bathroom is nothing short of excellent in its portrayal of modern. There is not much to distract the eye on this crisp design.

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary partial sun front yard landscaping in San Francisco.

Ammar Selo
Example of a large transitional open concept medium tone wood floor living room design in Houston with gray walls, no fireplace and a media wall

Early 20th century Louis Philippe style giltwood mirror with clamshell carvings. Beautiful aged gilt finish with bevel mirror, large clam shell carving at the top and intricate carved details. This mirror is wood, and gesso. Minor scratches to the frame where you will see white peeking through. It does have age, and has a couple minor carvings missing. This does not distract from the mirror and is very hard to spot out when looking at it. Overall is in great condition, the frame is solid and sturdy, the mirror is secure inside the frame. It looks as if it were once above a mantel (fireplace), there are 2 tiny holes at the very top where is was once placed. Measures: 47" W x 2.5" D x 61" H.

Do you cringe at the thought of spotlighting black in your kitchen? This sophisticated stunner may well give you a change of heart! Though the walls and most of the cabinetry are painted “Super White”, the real eyecatchers are the custom brass-trimmed black hood; the black mullion glass doors flanking the hood; and the black front and rear island bases, which echo the black-framed windows. With the addition of elegant Calacatta Gold marble countertops with waterfall island ends and slab backsplashes, I challenge you to say the inclusion of black makes the kitchen feel small or dark. Despite contemporary touches, the cabinetry is traditional flush inset construction; doors and large drawers are wide-framed classic Shaker styling with a stepped inner profile. The fridge and dishwasher are paneled to match to avoid distraction. Decorative hardware is honey bronze; the faucet and instant hot are sleek matte black. Pulling triple duty is the peninsula, which houses a microwave drawer; a beverage fridge; and space for cushioned stools with awning-stripe black webbed backs. The most dramatic view is through the opening in the striking black and gold Art Deco wallpapered dining room, which is centered directly on the black island and black-and-brass hood. This project was done in collaboration with Atelier Milot Shala, LLC and Breton Contracting. Photography by Stefan Radtke.

This modern credenza would make the perfect storage cabinet in nearly any environment. It is handcrafted by us here in the USA utilizing only the highest quality materials and it’s made to last a lifetime. It sits atop a black platform base (wrapped in vinyl to give a little texture). The raised geometric pattern of the doors add a touch of modernism. It is a very versatile piece and would be well-suited as a modern TV stand/console, credenza, buffet, or stylish sideboard. Behind each door you’ll find an adjustable inner shelf for maximum flexibility. Push-to-open doors eliminate the need for handles or knobs on the front so as to not distract from the stylish, modern look of the doors. In addition to making these in many different widths and heights, we can also build yours in nearly any configuration. Want a more “open”, “airy” look? We can make yours with an open middle section (meaning doors only on the outsides). Or, need drawers? We can do that as well! It is shown here in rich brown walnut, but yours can be made in any of the woods shown on our wood options page. Other door colors are available as well. For a more vintage look, consider our vintage orange doors. Or, for a more Hollywood glam look, go bold with our gold! See our other items for examples in different color and configurations. Looking for a more mid-century look? Take a look at this unit with our tapered, gold spindle legs as opposed to the platform base. For many years of trouble-free use, we use only top-of-the-line hardware (hinges, push to open mechanisms) from Blum and Salice. Only the highest quality furniture-grade veneers are used as well. Like any natural material, expect some slight variations in grain and coloration. Using this to store electronic devices that need power? Let us know and we’re happy to add holes in the back for cables to exit for no additional charge. Need a different width? Yours can be made with any number of doors. Dimensions: approximately 82.75" wide x 19" deep x 25.25" high . (The dimensions are the exterior dimensions of the cabinet. The patterns on the doors will extend slightly past the cabinet) Model: Regency (shown in walnut with white doors and platform base). Please inquire for information and pricing on any changes you would like. We also create many other custom pieces in this and other styles, so, please contact us if you are looking for conference tables, credenzas, industrial office shelving, or any other furniture. We would love to discuss how we can work together to design a unique piece to fit your needs! To see more options and to learn more about us, visit us at: www.combine9.com In addition to countless wonderful homeowners and small businesses around the country, some of our past clients include companies such as Google, Disney, Hilton Hotels, YouTube, Linked In, Living Social, Wyndham Hotels, Trip Advisor, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Vans Shoes, Vibram Shoes, Mishimoto, Starwood Hotels, and Bose retail stores. We’ve also been in numerous national publications and TV shows including HGTV’s “House Hunters”, a nation-wide Verizon TV commercial, a nation-wide Microsoft TV commercial, NBC’s “About a Boy” TV show, Dwell (for their Dwell Labs exhibit), Sound & Vision magazine, Living Spaces magazine, etc. We’ve even had several A-list celebrities (that we’ve been asked to not mention by name)! ABOUT US: We create custom, unique furniture, unlike anything you will find. Our intention is to give you a piece of furniture that you will admire and enjoy for years to come and that will leave your house-guests envious. Our work is handcrafted in the United States and made to last a lifetime. These unique pieces fit perfectly with any urban/modern, mid-century, or rustic décor. All of our pieces can be made in many configurations and sizes to suit your specific style and needs. There are many options available as each piece is designed just for you, so, if you have any thoughts, please contact us and we would be happy to let you know what your options are. * All rights reserved; Combine 9 Design, LLC

Living Area These homeowners did a great job of furnishing their Eastwood Patio Home. However, there were a few areas that they felt “needed something.” We came in and added lots of fabric, texture and pattern to warm up the spaces. In their formal Sitting Area, we added this large ottoman in a rich merlot leather to anchor the space. We did not want to distract from the incredible view so we added cornice boxes to the top of the windows. The tapestry fabric ties in all of the colors in the upholstery and rug. Sunroom The Sunroom is open to the other living areas so we needed to keep our color scheme flowing; however, we decided to go with a less formal fabric for these cornice boards. It is a fun plaid that coordinates with the tapestry fabric in the other spaces. Plaids are a great pattern to use when you have multiple colors you are trying to tie together. Basement Bar The homeowners wanted the back of their Basement Bar to stand out and had even painted the wall an accent color. Adding the ledge stone was the perfect solution. It adds some much wonderful texture to the space. We also added cushions to their banquette area which makes that wonderful nook so inviting! Basement Bathroom The homeowners liked the idea of wallpaper in this spacious bathroom – Yea! – so we added a subtle plaid paper in a neutral color to add depth and pattern to the walls. It works great with the tile and existing artwork. Adding pattern, texture and fabric provided tons of interest and warmth to the wonderful Eastwood Patio Home. Enjoy!

Roller shades are a great option for windows of various sized including very large windows, where you want a clean, non-distracting look that blends into the background. For any inquiries or book appointment, call us at 905-604-1222. For more info of our products visit us at www.trendyblinds.ca

A real modern marvel, the kitchen unites utility with design. Wall-to-ceiling minimalist cabinetry in a soft matte finish provides ample storage space while maintaining a clean, uninterrupted flow. Stainless steel appliances are built-in and perfectly integrated into the room so as not to distract from its linear elegance.

This beautiful heritage renovated home hosts 2 spectacular islands. This kitchen hosts a 'center stage' gas range which has a quiet high efficiency range fan to avoid noise-distraction. The islands provide large food preparation areas which easily accommodates day to day family life, multiple cooks, and large groups. These islands have an abundance of storage behind invisible touch-latch doors. One island hosts two dish washers and a clever raised counter to hide any kitchen mess from people walking in the front door. This kitchen also incorporates a double wall oven in white, a bar fridge, and a tucked away pantry.

Everything about this striking space says "Modern Muskoka". From the band saw texture and X-detailing on the White Oak island, to the refreshing marbled white quartz countertop, to the traditional detailing in the moulding and mullions, to the spacious design - perfect for cozy meals in the kitchen or preparing for a large dinner down by the lake. The custom wooden range hood is a dramatic but cohesive focal point, and the two-tone cabinets ensure you don't miss the intricate details of either half of the space. Clever storage solutions can be found throughout this kitchen, all in streamlined, practical ways that add to the design, rather than distracting from it. This is truly the ideal retreat for cottage dwellers in northern Ontario.

The delicately swirled, stone mosaic accent wall is an artistic element that contrasts with the tailored, transitional cabinets in gray and cream guest bathroom. A trio of glass and metal wall sconces flank the mirrors. I opted for a pair of integrated sinks for a sleek profile on the countertop that doesn't distract for the focal wall. Photo by Brian Gassel