ZeroEnergy Design (ZED) created this modern home for a progressive family in the desirable community of Lexington. Thoughtful Land Connection. The residence is carefully sited on the infill lot so as to create privacy from the road and neighbors, while cultivating a side yard that captures the southern sun. The terraced grade rises to meet the house, allowing for it to maintain a structured connection with the ground while also sitting above the high water table. The elevated outdoor living space maintains a strong connection with the indoor living space, while the stepped edge ties it back to the true ground plane. Siting and outdoor connections were completed by ZED in collaboration with landscape designer Soren Deniord Design Studio. Exterior Finishes and Solar. The exterior finish materials include a palette of shiplapped wood siding, through-colored fiber cement panels and stucco. A rooftop parapet hides the solar panels above, while a gutter and site drainage system directs rainwater into an irrigation cistern and dry wells that recharge the groundwater. Cooking, Dining, Living. Inside, the kitchen, fabricated by Henrybuilt, is located between the indoor and outdoor dining areas. The expansive south-facing sliding door opens to seamlessly connect the spaces, using a retractable awning to provide shade during the summer while still admitting the warming winter sun. The indoor living space continues from the dining areas across to the sunken living area, with a view that returns again to the outside through the corner wall of glass. Accessible Guest Suite. The design of the first level guest suite provides for both aging in place and guests who regularly visit for extended stays. The patio off the north side of the house affords guests their own private outdoor space, and privacy from the neighbor. Similarly, the second level master suite opens to an outdoor private roof deck. Light and Access. The wide open interior stair with a glass panel rail leads from the top level down to the well insulated basement. The design of the basement, used as an away/play space, addresses the need for both natural light and easy access. In addition to the open stairwell, light is admitted to the north side of the area with a high performance, Passive House (PHI) certified skylight, covering a six by sixteen foot area. On the south side, a unique roof hatch set flush with the deck opens to reveal a glass door at the base of the stairwell which provides additional light and access from the deck above down to the play space. Energy. Energy consumption is reduced by the high performance building envelope, high efficiency mechanical systems, and then offset with renewable energy. All windows and doors are made of high performance triple paned glass with thermally broken aluminum frames. The exterior wall assembly employs dense pack cellulose in the stud cavity, a continuous air barrier, and four inches exterior rigid foam insulation. The 10kW rooftop solar electric system provides clean energy production. The final air leakage testing yielded 0.6 ACH 50 - an extremely air tight house, a testament to the well-designed details, progress testing and quality construction. When compared to a new house built to code requirements, this home consumes only 19% of the energy. Architecture & Energy Consulting: ZeroEnergy Design Landscape Design: Soren Deniord Design Paintings: Bernd Haussmann Studio Photos: Eric Roth Photography

For this couple, planning to move back to their rambler home in Arlington after living overseas for few years, they were ready to get rid of clutter, clean up their grown-up kids’ boxes, and transform their home into their dream home for their golden years. The old home included a box-like 8 feet x 10 feet kitchen, no family room, three small bedrooms and two back to back small bathrooms. The laundry room was located in a small dark space of the unfinished basement. This home is located in a cul-de-sac, on an uphill lot, of a very secluded neighborhood with lots of new homes just being built around them. The couple consulted an architectural firm in past but never were satisfied with the final plans. They approached Michael Nash Custom Kitchens hoping for fresh ideas. The backyard and side yard are wooded and the existing structure was too close to building restriction lines. We developed design plans and applied for special permits to achieve our client’s goals. The remodel includes a family room, sunroom, breakfast area, home office, large master bedroom suite, large walk-in closet, main level laundry room, lots of windows, front porch, back deck, and most important than all an elevator from lower to upper level given them and their close relative a necessary easier access. The new plan added extra dimensions to this rambler on all four sides. Starting from the front, we excavated to allow a first level entrance, storage, and elevator room. Building just above it, is a 12 feet x 30 feet covered porch with a leading brick staircase. A contemporary cedar rail with horizontal stainless steel cable rail system on both the front porch and the back deck sets off this project from any others in area. A new foyer with double frosted stainless-steel door was added which contains the elevator. The garage door was widened and a solid cedar door was installed to compliment the cedar siding. The left side of this rambler was excavated to allow a storage off the garage and extension of one of the old bedrooms to be converted to a large master bedroom suite, master bathroom suite and walk-in closet. We installed matching brick for a seam-less exterior look. The entire house was furnished with new Italian imported highly custom stainless-steel windows and doors. We removed several brick and block structure walls to put doors and floor to ceiling windows. A full walk in shower with barn style frameless glass doors, double vanities covered with selective stone, floor to ceiling porcelain tile make the master bathroom highly accessible. The other two bedrooms were reconfigured with new closets, wider doorways, new wood floors and wider windows. Just outside of the bedroom, a new laundry room closet was a major upgrade. A second HVAC system was added in the attic for all new areas. The back side of the master bedroom was covered with floor to ceiling windows and a door to step into a new deck covered in trex and cable railing. This addition provides a view to wooded area of the home. By excavating and leveling the backyard, we constructed a two story 15’x 40’ addition that provided the tall ceiling for the family room just adjacent to new deck, a breakfast area a few steps away from the remodeled kitchen. Upscale stainless-steel appliances, floor to ceiling white custom cabinetry and quartz counter top, and fun lighting improved this back section of the house with its increased lighting and available work space. Just below this addition, there is extra space for exercise and storage room. This room has a pair of sliding doors allowing more light inside. The right elevation has a trapezoid shape addition with floor to ceiling windows and space used as a sunroom/in-home office. Wide plank wood floors were installed throughout the main level for continuity. The hall bathroom was gutted and expanded to allow a new soaking tub and large vanity. The basement half bathroom was converted to a full bathroom, new flooring and lighting in the entire basement changed the purpose of the basement for entertainment and spending time with grandkids. Off white and soft tone were used inside and out as the color schemes to make this rambler spacious and illuminated. Final grade and landscaping, by adding a few trees, trimming the old cherry and walnut trees in backyard, saddling the yard, and a new concrete driveway and walkway made this home a unique and charming gem in the neighborhood.

Stylish and sensible, the Montlake™ 230 fireplace insert from the Country Collection converts any fireplace to an efficient, clean-burning wood heater. Its elegant design features an expansive ceramic glass panel that offers unobstructed views of the fire and enhances the existing fireplace. Each EPA-certified insert comes equipped with IronStrike's innovative Thermal Fin Technology (TFT™), a cast iron heat exchanger system that maximizes heat output to quickly deliver warmth to your living space. And with features like the Montlake's precise one-touch control and smoke-reducing air booster, reliability, efficiency, and technology come together to ensure lasting comfort for your home. Aesthetics Unique, integral airwash system keeps the glass clean and clear for a wide-open view of the fire. Tall opening provides and expansive view of the burning fire. Precision-cut, heavy-gauge steel provides dependable, long-lasting operation. Comfort Innovative Thermal Fin Technology™ (TFT) creates 32% more surface area than a standard design resulting in more heat entering the room. High-density firebrick retains heat, resulting in increased efficiency. Optional 150-CFM variable-speed blower quickly moves heat from the stove into your room. EPA-certified and Washington State-approved for clean and efficient operation. Ease of Operation One-touch control ensures easy operation and comfort. Design Versatility Decorative door trim in standard Black, Brushed Nickel or Nickel allows customization to your style. Top warming surface with classic cast-iron or solid, heavy-gauge steel options allow for easy customization. *Square-feet heating capacities are approximations only. Actual performance may vary depending upon home design and insulation, ceiling heights, climate, condition and type of wood used, appliance location, burn rate, accessories chosen, chimney installation and how the appliance is operated.

Nestled in the prestigious Empire Pass area of Deer Valley, this extraordinary ski-in, ski-out residence embodies the pinnacle of mountain luxury. Spanning an impressive 4,442 square feet of internal accommodation, this meticulously crafted home offers five lavish bedrooms and seven opulent bathrooms, designed for those who demand the very best in life. Upon entering, you're greeted by soaring high ceilings that create an immediate sense of grandeur, while floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the interior in an abundance of natural light. The warmth of oak paneling paired with natural stone countertops exudes sophistication, seamlessly blending contemporary elegance with timeless materials. The heart of the home is its expansive living area, where bespoke finishes and custom craftsmanship are evident in every detail. The natural wood and stone elements flow effortlessly from the interior to the exterior living spaces, creating a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape. This organic design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also fosters a deep sense of tranquility and grounding. The residence is thoughtfully equipped with luxurious amenities, including a steam shower, ideal for après-ski relaxation, and a state-of-the-art ski locker, ensuring every convenience is at your fingertips. Each bedroom serves as a private retreat, offering unparalleled comfort and privacy, while the bathrooms are outfitted with exquisite fixtures that elevate daily rituals into moments of indulgence. This Empire Pass residence is not just a home; it is a masterpiece, where nature and luxury converge to create a sanctuary of unparalleled refinement.

Beautiful white gloss laminate doors and drawers are highly durable and easy to clean.
Trendy galley dark wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Denver with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, a drop-in sink, stainless steel appliances and an island

A modern inspired, contemporary town house in Philadelphia's most historic neighborhood. This custom built luxurious home provides state of the art urban living on six levels with all the conveniences of suburban homes. Vertical staking allows for each floor to have its own function, feel, style and purpose, yet they all blend to create a rarely seen home. A six-level elevator makes movement easy throughout. With over 5,000 square feet of usable indoor space and over 1,200 square feet of usable exterior space, this is urban living at its best. Breathtaking 360 degree views from the roof deck with outdoor kitchen and plunge pool makes this home a 365 day a year oasis in the city. Photography by Jay Greene.

Our team recently completed a professional rug installation at Café Nero, showcasing our ability to elevate high-traffic commercial spaces with carefully selected, high-quality rugs. We prioritized durability and aesthetic appeal to meet the café’s needs, ensuring the space is both functional and visually captivating. This project highlights our commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and customized solutions, perfect for transforming any business environment.

The Cloud chandelier is a sculptural installation of hand‑blown glass designed to elevate high‑ceiling living spaces with modern elegance and artistic presence. Each glass piece is individually crafted into soft, organic forms that appear to float weightlessly, creating a luminous cloud‑like composition that fills the vertical volume with movement and serenity. Perfect for double‑height living rooms and open‑concept spaces, this custom Cloud chandelier is tailored to the exact ceiling height, sightlines, and proportions of the room. Its cascading arrangement draws the eye upward, enhancing architectural drama while maintaining a refined, minimalist aesthetic. By day, the glass forms a striking centerpiece; by night, it radiates a warm, ambient glow that transforms the entire space. This installation reflects our signature approach: museum‑level craftsmanship, hand‑blown artistry, and fully bespoke design for luxury interiors seeking a statement chandelier that feels both airy and sculptural

Our team recently completed a professional rug installation at Café Nero, showcasing our ability to elevate high-traffic commercial spaces with carefully selected, high-quality rugs. We prioritized durability and aesthetic appeal to meet the café’s needs, ensuring the space is both functional and visually captivating. This project highlights our commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and customized solutions, perfect for transforming any business environment.

Our team recently completed a professional rug installation at Café Nero, showcasing our ability to elevate high-traffic commercial spaces with carefully selected, high-quality rugs. We prioritized durability and aesthetic appeal to meet the café’s needs, ensuring the space is both functional and visually captivating. This project highlights our commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and customized solutions, perfect for transforming any business environment.

As of 2018 Pneumatic Vacuum Home Elevators are now allowed in Massachusetts! This elevator is powered by air and is truly a work of art. It is ideal for retro-fitting in existing homes. It requires a minimal footprint, no pit or machine room required. This picture shows the most popular size PVE37 model. This unit only takes up a 39" diameter of space!

Example of a mid-sized minimalist gray two-story concrete fiberboard flat roof design in Chicago

Photo: Paula Coldiron © 2014 Houzz
Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in Birmingham

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

Form meets function with versatile pieces that transition from clean-lined seating for stylish entertaining to a comfortable trundle bed.
Living room - transitional living room idea in Houston

Traditional cab panels with painted wainscot trim, adjacent cab openings, recessed phone box, digital position indicator and hammered bronze scissor style gate.

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

The Visilift™ Octagonal elevator provides an attractive addition to any home.
Inspiration for a contemporary staircase remodel in Denver

With 2,000 sq. ft. of open living space with panoramic water views, this elevated hurricane-resistant home (designed and engineered by Topsider) was built after Hurricane Katrina destroyed the original home. Visit http://www.topsiderhomes.com/piling-pier-stilt-house-hurricane-home-plans.php for more information.