Introducing this backyard remodeling project expertly completed by @seamlessconstruction.inc 's team in the heart of #LosAngeles The project starts with artificial turf welcoming you into the backyard, as per the client’s request, to replace the old driveway’ falling asphalt. Additionally, a strip drain system was added to address the issue of flooding in the ADU caused by heavy rain. To ensure seamless transitions within the backyard, adjustments in elevation were made and a striking set of new stairs were added designed with some under lights. It was crafted using Belgard pavers and Bullnose in graphite color, seamlessly blending with the overall landscape. Next to the ADU, a charming patio was constructed using Mexican tiles and grey grout, elegantly complementing the other side's design. The artificial turf area was thoughtfully created to add recreational space for the homeowners. A raised concrete pad in this section, also featuring Mexican tiles, is planned for future conversion into a spa and cold plunge area, awaiting installation of the amenities. A highlight of the renovation is the captivating fire pit area, decorated with Mexican tiles, matching with the concrete elements. This inviting space is expected to be a favorite spot, especially during colder nights. Throughout the project, careful attention was given to ensure that all elements blended cohesively. Thank you for watching and stay tuned for more exciting projects from Seamless Construction.

Introducing this backyard remodeling project expertly completed by @seamlessconstruction.inc 's team in the heart of #LosAngeles The project starts with artificial turf welcoming you into the backyard, as per the client’s request, to replace the old driveway’ falling asphalt. Additionally, a strip drain system was added to address the issue of flooding in the ADU caused by heavy rain. To ensure seamless transitions within the backyard, adjustments in elevation were made and a striking set of new stairs were added designed with some under lights. It was crafted using Belgard pavers and Bullnose in graphite color, seamlessly blending with the overall landscape. Next to the ADU, a charming patio was constructed using Mexican tiles and grey grout, elegantly complementing the other side's design. The artificial turf area was thoughtfully created to add recreational space for the homeowners. A raised concrete pad in this section, also featuring Mexican tiles, is planned for future conversion into a spa and cold plunge area, awaiting installation of the amenities. A highlight of the renovation is the captivating fire pit area, decorated with Mexican tiles, matching with the concrete elements. This inviting space is expected to be a favorite spot, especially during colder nights. Throughout the project, careful attention was given to ensure that all elements blended cohesively. Thank you for watching and stay tuned for more exciting projects from Seamless Construction.

Introducing this backyard remodeling project expertly completed by @seamlessconstruction.inc 's team in the heart of #LosAngeles The project starts with artificial turf welcoming you into the backyard, as per the client’s request, to replace the old driveway’ falling asphalt. Additionally, a strip drain system was added to address the issue of flooding in the ADU caused by heavy rain. To ensure seamless transitions within the backyard, adjustments in elevation were made and a striking set of new stairs were added designed with some under lights. It was crafted using Belgard pavers and Bullnose in graphite color, seamlessly blending with the overall landscape. Next to the ADU, a charming patio was constructed using Mexican tiles and grey grout, elegantly complementing the other side's design. The artificial turf area was thoughtfully created to add recreational space for the homeowners. A raised concrete pad in this section, also featuring Mexican tiles, is planned for future conversion into a spa and cold plunge area, awaiting installation of the amenities. A highlight of the renovation is the captivating fire pit area, decorated with Mexican tiles, matching with the concrete elements. This inviting space is expected to be a favorite spot, especially during colder nights. Throughout the project, careful attention was given to ensure that all elements blended cohesively. Thank you for watching and stay tuned for more exciting projects from Seamless Construction.

Introducing this backyard remodeling project expertly completed by @seamlessconstruction.inc 's team in the heart of #LosAngeles The project starts with artificial turf welcoming you into the backyard, as per the client’s request, to replace the old driveway’ falling asphalt. Additionally, a strip drain system was added to address the issue of flooding in the ADU caused by heavy rain. To ensure seamless transitions within the backyard, adjustments in elevation were made and a striking set of new stairs were added designed with some under lights. It was crafted using Belgard pavers and Bullnose in graphite color, seamlessly blending with the overall landscape. Next to the ADU, a charming patio was constructed using Mexican tiles and grey grout, elegantly complementing the other side's design. The artificial turf area was thoughtfully created to add recreational space for the homeowners. A raised concrete pad in this section, also featuring Mexican tiles, is planned for future conversion into a spa and cold plunge area, awaiting installation of the amenities. A highlight of the renovation is the captivating fire pit area, decorated with Mexican tiles, matching with the concrete elements. This inviting space is expected to be a favorite spot, especially during colder nights. Throughout the project, careful attention was given to ensure that all elements blended cohesively. Thank you for watching and stay tuned for more exciting projects from Seamless Construction.

The property is one of the original farm houses located on the main street of a small town. It has been in the family for many years and our client just inherited the property. They were trying to have balance of preserving the old while realizing modern day living has its benefits too. The house had a large addition added using mostly old style materials, but designed with function and modern day luxuries. Our goal was to carry that theme to the outside. Our first problem we had to address was how to transition between the first floor elevation changes. The lower room was the husband’s office. He stated in the future he may have clients over and it would be nice to have an area to sit outside. The wife’s main concern was to renew the four corner garden. She also felt it was very important to be able to see it from the kitchen area. Finally there was an old wishing well stuck right outside the kitchen. They both felt it would be neat to be able to incorporate this in some how. They wanted a patio area with a built in grill to accommodate there family and friends. They also wanted to keep a large play area for the kids. We were able to pull this off successfully. We addressed the first issue by having a small lower level flagstone area. This area is large enough for 1 to 2 people to sit comfortably. It also provides a transition from his office to the larger patio area. We installed a simple small gravel sitting area opposite of the main patio. This provides our client a secluded place to relax or do business. Mrs.... told me she is amazed how much her and her husband enjoys this area. It is so peaceful looking at the small creek over a glass of wine. We built a natural limestone retaining wall to create the patio terrace. The stone was chosen to extend the houses architectural elements into the landscape. Irregular broken flagstone was used to give it a more casual feel. We installed three Serviceberries into the patio terrace to replace some trees that were taken down during the remodeling. She was very concern that they would block the view of the four corner garden. We new they were crucial to nestle in the terrace, so we placed them for a couple days for her to decide. Fortunately she agreed they not only kept the view open, but helped frame the garden. The four corner garden was designed to be viewed from afar and experienced up close. We wanted the space to have some formal structure while keeping with the casual farm house feel. Another natural limestone retaining wall was created. This leveled the garden terrace and helped associate it with the rest of the property. The four corner garden is nestled into the existing woods edge. This provides three distinct experiences to entering the garden; a more formal from the driveway, an open feel from the lower lawn, and a more natural / casual experience from the wooded area. The Plymouth brown gravel was used for the center of the garden. This helped highlight the stone post that was found during construction. The gravel also brings the sense of sound into the garden space. Lamb’s ear was chosen as a fun way to get kids interest in horticulture. The balance of using the new to create the old feel is what makes this project a success. The property has already hosted a local historical society event and won an award for its preservation efforts. When Mrs.... can’t find her husband, she knows he is either reading the newspaper by the grill or resting in the hammock along the wood’s path.

Introducing this backyard remodeling project expertly completed by @seamlessconstruction.inc 's team in the heart of #LosAngeles The project starts with artificial turf welcoming you into the backyard, as per the client’s request, to replace the old driveway’ falling asphalt. Additionally, a strip drain system was added to address the issue of flooding in the ADU caused by heavy rain. To ensure seamless transitions within the backyard, adjustments in elevation were made and a striking set of new stairs were added designed with some under lights. It was crafted using Belgard pavers and Bullnose in graphite color, seamlessly blending with the overall landscape. Next to the ADU, a charming patio was constructed using Mexican tiles and grey grout, elegantly complementing the other side's design. The artificial turf area was thoughtfully created to add recreational space for the homeowners. A raised concrete pad in this section, also featuring Mexican tiles, is planned for future conversion into a spa and cold plunge area, awaiting installation of the amenities. A highlight of the renovation is the captivating fire pit area, decorated with Mexican tiles, matching with the concrete elements. This inviting space is expected to be a favorite spot, especially during colder nights. Throughout the project, careful attention was given to ensure that all elements blended cohesively. Thank you for watching and stay tuned for more exciting projects from Seamless Construction.

Introducing this backyard remodeling project expertly completed by @seamlessconstruction.inc 's team in the heart of #LosAngeles The project starts with artificial turf welcoming you into the backyard, as per the client’s request, to replace the old driveway’ falling asphalt. Additionally, a strip drain system was added to address the issue of flooding in the ADU caused by heavy rain. To ensure seamless transitions within the backyard, adjustments in elevation were made and a striking set of new stairs were added designed with some under lights. It was crafted using Belgard pavers and Bullnose in graphite color, seamlessly blending with the overall landscape. Next to the ADU, a charming patio was constructed using Mexican tiles and grey grout, elegantly complementing the other side's design. The artificial turf area was thoughtfully created to add recreational space for the homeowners. A raised concrete pad in this section, also featuring Mexican tiles, is planned for future conversion into a spa and cold plunge area, awaiting installation of the amenities. A highlight of the renovation is the captivating fire pit area, decorated with Mexican tiles, matching with the concrete elements. This inviting space is expected to be a favorite spot, especially during colder nights. Throughout the project, careful attention was given to ensure that all elements blended cohesively. Thank you for watching and stay tuned for more exciting projects from Seamless Construction.

The project is located in Chantilly, VA in the rear yard of a new home and was virtually a blank slate. The Chantilly Entertaining Terrace space is elevated off the existing grade by approximately three feet allowing direct access by the existing French doors. The space incorporates a built-in outdoor kitchen complete with gas grill, storage and a refrigerator. The grill faced in local chocolate grey stone and topped by a honed Virginia Mist locally quarried granite. The cabinetry and appliances are all low maintenance stainless steel. The terrace is large enough for everyday dining area along with a lounge space that includes a custom built-in gas fire table with the base faced in same stone as grill and the same Virginia Mist honed granite. The terrace spaces backs up to a natural wooded area so it was determined that an open railing system was important to preserve the views. So a custom hammered metal and tempered glass railing system was designed to allow view and add an elegant solution. Landscape lighting is subtly placed below the stone pier caps to provide ambient light and highlight the stone work at the same time. The unique problem was locating a granite that was dark blending with the other masonry and did not heat up and crack in full sun-exposure and would also winter well in an exterior application. The granite grill counter top and fire table top all had to be replaced due to this issue. Model: Linear Burner System Outdoor Architect: J. Mark White Architect Website: www.gardenwise.co Designer: J. Mark White Designer Website: www.gardenwise.co Photographer: Michael K. Wilkinson Photographer Website: http://www.mkw1.com/

HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Lopez Outdoor Living Williamsburg, VA Mid Atlantic Enterprise, Inc. The main objective for this project was to turn this Disabled American Veteran’s useless, hilly backyard into a complete outdoor living destination. This meant created a functional place for the client’s needs while being an exciting place for his young family to play and entertain. A major challenge in this project was altering the terrain to suit the design plan. We had to clear-cut the entire backyard and remove over 3,000 cubic yards of earth. Severe drainage issues also had to be corrected before installing the hardscape. To accommodate the elevation changes of the property and to support the necessary ADA compliant ramp, we had to construct two walls. One wall serves as a freestanding and retaining wall specially constructed on a large concrete footer and reinforced with rebar and concrete. We built everything custom; a new deck and pergola to blend the home and hardscape. This included a fully functional outdoor kitchen to meet the entertaining requirements of the clients, a gunite pool & spa large enough to accommodate the client’s ever-growing family, two fire bowls and a fire pit to add the “wow” factor the clients sought. In addition, a shed was built to complement the home while providing much needed storage space. We installed a full landscape; which included five 25 ft Magnolia trees to provide instant privacy in place of the overgrown woody area that was removed. To provide safety at night, we completed the project with strategically placed landscape lighting.

Small contemporary exterior home idea in DC Metro

Trendmark Inc. AFTER - Gold STAR Award Best Whole House. From blah to beautiful, this kitchen’s transformation not only updated the look but rearranged the way the room functioned. After living in the house for almost 15 years the homeowners knew it was time to invest in the most important room in thier house. The large boxed in florescent light, chopped up counter spaces, and white melamine cabinets just had to go! The large pantry closet took up lots of space in the kitchen, but the did not offer organized storage. It was nearly impossible to find what you were looking for as items were buried in the back of the closet. By removing this closet and replacing it with a pantry cabinet with full extension roll outs,not only was the floor space increased but so was the usable storage area. The refrigerator was also relocated to the opposite wall to increase countertop space as well as improve function. Trendmark Inc Contractor Note: The creamy glazed alderwood cabinets have raised panel doors and drawer fronts, and feature extras like an arched raised panel range hood that brings style and elegance to the room. The creams and ivories of the room are complemented by the tan and ivory Juperana Santa Cecilia granite countertops and by the bronze hardware and pendant lighting. The large island provides storage, a prep and clean-up area with an undermounted sink, and an area for family eating or for entertaining service. A focal point in the room is the decorative travertine tile picture frame over the professional grade range. Stainless steel appliances and warm wood flooring complete the look and spread into the eating area and the family room beyond. This room has certainly banished the blahs and become elegant as well as more useful. Homeowner Score - 100 Perfect score from homeowner. “The TrendMark team was outstanding. Their creativity and ability to visualize the project made it turn out better than expected. The team always was very professional, on-time, courteous,easy to work with, and did incredible work! I’d recommend TrendMark to anyone. TrendMark is unique in that the crew are employee of TrendMark and you know who to expect for the duration of the project. I was comfortable having them in our home at anytime. Not having a string of subs come through made it a very positive experience. Their attention to detail was amazing. Before I could point out any issue the team was already working on them. Overall, remodeling a kitchen, down to the sheetrock and more and 3.5 baths could be a very painful experience, but this was not the case. It was a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. We love our new home! AWARD: Best Kitchen $25,001 - $40,000 Special Feature Award: Kitchen/Closet Redesign * Nice attention to detail. Reworked interior wall to gain space. Exceptional update good lighting. * Cabinet layout/design – elevations and projections – are small but nice finishing details. Thought/Implementation of kitchen pantry/closet redesign truly changed the kitchen. * Like the kitchen cabinets lines – especially the layout nicely done tile.

HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Lopez Outdoor Living Williamsburg, VA Mid Atlantic Enterprise, Inc. The main objective for this project was to turn this Disabled American Veteran’s useless, hilly backyard into a complete outdoor living destination. This meant created a functional place for the client’s needs while being an exciting place for his young family to play and entertain. A major challenge in this project was altering the terrain to suit the design plan. We had to clear-cut the entire backyard and remove over 3,000 cubic yards of earth. Severe drainage issues also had to be corrected before installing the hardscape. To accommodate the elevation changes of the property and to support the necessary ADA compliant ramp, we had to construct two walls. One wall serves as a freestanding and retaining wall specially constructed on a large concrete footer and reinforced with rebar and concrete. We built everything custom; a new deck and pergola to blend the home and hardscape. This included a fully functional outdoor kitchen to meet the entertaining requirements of the clients, a gunite pool & spa large enough to accommodate the client’s ever-growing family, two fire bowls and a fire pit to add the “wow” factor the clients sought. In addition, a shed was built to complement the home while providing much needed storage space. We installed a full landscape; which included five 25 ft Magnolia trees to provide instant privacy in place of the overgrown woody area that was removed. To provide safety at night, we completed the project with strategically placed landscape lighting.

The project is located in Chantilly, VA in the rear yard of a new home and was virtually a blank slate. The Chantilly Entertaining Terrace space is elevated off the existing grade by approximately three feet allowing direct access by the existing French doors. The space incorporates a built-in outdoor kitchen complete with gas grill, storage and a refrigerator. The grill faced in local chocolate grey stone and topped by a honed Virginia Mist locally quarried granite. The cabinetry and appliances are all low maintenance stainless steel. The terrace is large enough for everyday dining area along with a lounge space that includes a custom built-in gas fire table with the base faced in same stone as grill and the same Virginia Mist honed granite. The terrace spaces backs up to a natural wooded area so it was determined that an open railing system was important to preserve the views. So a custom hammered metal and tempered glass railing system was designed to allow view and add an elegant solution. Landscape lighting is subtly placed below the stone pier caps to provide ambient light and highlight the stone work at the same time. The unique problem was locating a granite that was dark blending with the other masonry and did not heat up and crack in full sun-exposure and would also winter well in an exterior application. The granite grill counter top and fire table top all had to be replaced due to this issue. Model: Linear Burner System Outdoor Architect: J. Mark White Architect Website: www.gardenwise.co Designer: J. Mark White Designer Website: www.gardenwise.co Photographer: Michael K. Wilkinson Photographer Website: http://www.mkw1.com/

Transform Your Yard with Expert Landscaping by Whitwell Landscaping Inc. At Whitwell Landscaping Inc., we specialize in turning ordinary yards into extraordinary outdoor living spaces. Our recent project showcases our craftsmanship and creativity—featuring a stunning Fieldstone Veneer Retaining Wall, a durable and stylish Paver Patio, Custom Steps with integrated Landscape Lighting, and a beautifully crafted River Rock Dry Creek Bed. Create an Outdoor Oasis That Reflects Your Style Our expert landscape designers will work closely with you to create a personalized outdoor space that blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. Whether you're looking to enhance curb appeal, entertain guests, or create a relaxing retreat, we bring your vision to life with thoughtful design and top-quality workmanship. Why Choose Our Custom River Rock Dry Creek Beds? Add a natural, tranquil element to your landscape while solving common drainage issues. Our custom river rock dry creek beds not only improve water flow but also add beauty and depth to your yard—perfect for both form and function. Let Us Bring Your Dream Landscape to Life From elegant retaining walls and ambient lighting to expertly laid paver patios, we provide comprehensive landscaping solutions designed to elevate your outdoor environment. ? Whitwell Landscaping Inc. – Your Partner in Outdoor Living ? Call Us Today! 770-519-5400 ? www.whitwelllandscaping.com

After the success of their master bathroom renovation, Mila and Rodney reached out to us once again, this time to tackle their guest bathroom. During the planning and design phase, we worked closely with them to understand their needs for a family-friendly yet stylish space. We started by assessing the current layout, functionality issues, and their vision. We began by removing the outdated vanity, cabinets, countertops, and lighting, then installed a new 82” cabinet with two sinks and paired with Maxwell 8" brushed nickel faucets for a modern, timeless look. Kengston brushed nickel mirrors were hung vertically, with Kawoti 3-light vanity lights installed above, centered for optimal brightness. The shower and bathtub area were gutted, removing the old tub. A new 30" white Wyndham Grayley bathtub with brushed nickel trim was installed, along with Themar Statuario V Matte 12x24" tiles on the shower wall. To further elevate the design, we added a large recessed shower niche, tiled with a coordinating Statuario V Matte 2x2 Hex tile. Finally, sliding glass doors were installed, creating a more open and accessible shower area. Mila & Rodney now have a refreshed guest bathroom that blends style, functionality, and durability—creating a space they will enjoy for years to come.

After the success of their master bathroom renovation, Mila and Rodney reached out to us once again, this time to tackle their guest bathroom. During the planning and design phase, we worked closely with them to understand their needs for a family-friendly yet stylish space. We started by assessing the current layout, functionality issues, and their vision. We began by removing the outdated vanity, cabinets, countertops, and lighting, then installed a new 82” cabinet with two sinks and paired with Maxwell 8" brushed nickel faucets for a modern, timeless look. Kengston brushed nickel mirrors were hung vertically, with Kawoti 3-light vanity lights installed above, centered for optimal brightness. The shower and bathtub area were gutted, removing the old tub. A new 30" white Wyndham Grayley bathtub with brushed nickel trim was installed, along with Themar Statuario V Matte 12x24" tiles on the shower wall. To further elevate the design, we added a large recessed shower niche, tiled with a coordinating Statuario V Matte 2x2 Hex tile. Finally, sliding glass doors were installed, creating a more open and accessible shower area. Mila & Rodney now have a refreshed guest bathroom that blends style, functionality, and durability—creating a space they will enjoy for years to come.

KitchenLab Interiors’ first, entirely new construction project in collaboration with GTH architects who designed the residence. KLI was responsible for all interior finishes, fixtures, furnishings, and design including the stairs, casework, interior doors, moldings and millwork. KLI also worked with the client on selecting the roof, exterior stucco and paint colors, stone, windows, and doors. The homeowners had purchased the existing home on a lakefront lot of the Valley Lo community in Glenview, thinking that it would be a gut renovation, but when they discovered a host of issues including mold, they decided to tear it down and start from scratch. The minute you look out the living room windows, you feel as though you're on a lakeside vacation in Wisconsin or Michigan. We wanted to help the homeowners achieve this feeling throughout the house - merging the causal vibe of a vacation home with the elegance desired for a primary residence. This project is unique and personal in many ways - Rebekah and the homeowner, Lorie, had grown up together in a small suburb of Columbus, Ohio. Lorie had been Rebekah's babysitter and was like an older sister growing up. They were both heavily influenced by the style of the late 70's and early 80's boho/hippy meets disco and 80's glam, and both credit their moms for an early interest in anything related to art, design, and style. One of the biggest challenges of doing a new construction project is that it takes so much longer to plan and execute and by the time tile and lighting is installed, you might be bored by the selections of feel like you've seen them everywhere already. “I really tried to pull myself, our team and the client away from the echo-chamber of Pinterest and Instagram. We fell in love with counter stools 3 years ago that I couldn't bring myself to pull the trigger on, thank god, because then they started showing up literally everywhere", Rebekah recalls. Lots of one of a kind vintage rugs and furnishings make the home feel less brand-spanking new. The best projects come from a team slightly outside their comfort zone. One of the funniest things Lorie says to Rebekah, "I gave you everything you wanted", which is pretty hilarious coming from a client to a designer.

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.

The property is one of the original farm houses located on the main street of a small town. It has been in the family for many years and our client just inherited the property. They were trying to have balance of preserving the old while realizing modern day living has its benefits too. The house had a large addition added using mostly old style materials, but designed with function and modern day luxuries. Our goal was to carry that theme to the outside. Our first problem we had to address was how to transition between the first floor elevation changes. The lower room was the husband’s office. He stated in the future he may have clients over and it would be nice to have an area to sit outside. The wife’s main concern was to renew the four corner garden. She also felt it was very important to be able to see it from the kitchen area. Finally there was an old wishing well stuck right outside the kitchen. They both felt it would be neat to be able to incorporate this in some how. They wanted a patio area with a built in grill to accommodate there family and friends. They also wanted to keep a large play area for the kids. We were able to pull this off successfully. We addressed the first issue by having a small lower level flagstone area. This area is large enough for 1 to 2 people to sit comfortably. It also provides a transition from his office to the larger patio area. We installed a simple small gravel sitting area opposite of the main patio. This provides our client a secluded place to relax or do business. Mrs.... told me she is amazed how much her and her husband enjoys this area. It is so peaceful looking at the small creek over a glass of wine. We built a natural limestone retaining wall to create the patio terrace. The stone was chosen to extend the houses architectural elements into the landscape. Irregular broken flagstone was used to give it a more casual feel. We installed three Serviceberries into the patio terrace to replace some trees that were taken down during the remodeling. She was very concern that they would block the view of the four corner garden. We new they were crucial to nestle in the terrace, so we placed them for a couple days for her to decide. Fortunately she agreed they not only kept the view open, but helped frame the garden. The four corner garden was designed to be viewed from afar and experienced up close. We wanted the space to have some formal structure while keeping with the casual farm house feel. Another natural limestone retaining wall was created. This leveled the garden terrace and helped associate it with the rest of the property. The four corner garden is nestled into the existing woods edge. This provides three distinct experiences to entering the garden; a more formal from the driveway, an open feel from the lower lawn, and a more natural / casual experience from the wooded area. The Plymouth brown gravel was used for the center of the garden. This helped highlight the stone post that was found during construction. The gravel also brings the sense of sound into the garden space. Lamb’s ear was chosen as a fun way to get kids interest in horticulture. The balance of using the new to create the old feel is what makes this project a success. The property has already hosted a local historical society event and won an award for its preservation efforts. When Mrs.... can’t find her husband, she knows he is either reading the newspaper by the grill or resting in the hammock along the wood’s path.