The existing home was deconstructed and salvageable material was reclaimed and donated for reuse. In its place, a custom 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath home was built. The new home incorporates many unique features including the “drive through” two-car garage that allows the homeowners access to the converging streets. The massive first-floor master bedroom suite encompasses a marble surround fireplace, 2 sizeable walk-in-closets as well as his and her luxurious master bathrooms. Two home offices provide the homeowners with ample room to take care of business. An elevator was installed to enable the homeowners and elderly guests to easily and safely access the second floor. Abundant storage areas throughout the home, including the cavernous full basement, offer plenty of space to stow extra belongings.

2010 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER The homeowner wanted to add square footage and implement an aging-in-place strategy that will enable her to live out her days in residence with dignified self-sufficiency. Specifically, she was seeking an updated family room and larger master bedroom suite. Additionally, she wanted to maintain the original intent of the Cape Cod style. A 28’ x 29’ addition was split between the new family room and the new master suite. First, every doorway into the master suite was redone for better accessibility. The suite itself features a cathedral ceiling, skylights and recessed lighting. The master suite bathroom has features a whirlpool bath, walk-in shower and double vanity. Grab bars and other handicap-accessible features are incorporated for aging in place living. A double-sided fireplace connects the master suite and the family room.

The existing home was deconstructed and salvageable material was reclaimed and donated for reuse. In its place, a custom 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath home was built. The new home incorporates many unique features including the “drive through” two-car garage that allows the homeowners access to the converging streets. The massive first-floor master bedroom suite encompasses a marble surround fireplace, 2 sizeable walk-in-closets as well as his and her luxurious master bathrooms. Two home offices provide the homeowners with ample room to take care of business. An elevator was installed to enable the homeowners and elderly guests to easily and safely access the second floor. Abundant storage areas throughout the home, including the cavernous full basement, offer plenty of space to stow extra belongings.

Spectrum Construction & Development, based out of Roxbury Twp., New Jersey is the recipient of the 2016 Awards of Excellence presented by the Metropolitan Builders & Contractors Association of New Jersey in the Custom Single-Family Home Category ($1,000,000 - $2,000,000) The homeowners moved to Morris County, New Jersey to be closer to their grown children and their families. They found a mid-century style home on a beautiful tree-lined street less than a mile away from their children's homes. Although the location was ideal and the corner lot perfectly situated for the homeowners, it was in disrepair and did not offer them the space, design features and finishes they wanted. Spectrum Construction arranged for the original home to be deconstructed with any salvageable material sold to the public for reuse or re-purposing. The custom 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath home that Spectrum Construction designed and built in its place combines country charm with modern elegance. This new home incorporates many unique features including the “drive through” two-car garage that allows the homeowners access to the converging streets. The massive first-floor master bedroom suite consists of a marble surround fireplace, 2 sizeable walk-in-closets as well as his and her luxurious master bathrooms. Two home offices provide the homeowners with ample room to take care of business. An elevator was installed to enable the homeowners and aging guests to easily and safely access the second floor. Abundant storage areas throughout the home, including the cavernous full basement, offer plenty of space to stow extra belongings. The second story was designed with the homeowners’ grandchildren in mind. The additional bedrooms, playroom and upstairs den make room for both daytime visits and overnight stays. Space for entertaining adult guests was also considered. The first floor includes a spacious great room with floor to ceiling stone fireplace which opens to a covered, screened-in back porch with a second stone fireplace. The stylish kitchen, containing two counter seating areas and an eat-in nook, along with the formal dining room give the homeowners plenty of room to accommodate large gatherings.

This modern-style executive home takes full advantage of the views and rocky terrain. The homeowners are retirees whose goal was to build a home that they could age in place in. Taking their needs into consideration, we created a large open concept design that takes advantage of the natural light and scenery while enabling the owners full accessibility throughout. All the primary rooms are located on the main floor with guest and additional spaces on lower floors. All door widths were increased and a roll thru shower was installed to allow for wheelchair accessibility if required in the future. The entire house is controlled by a state of the art iPad home automation system controlling media, mechanical systems, lighting & security. "Light & Bright" are the items our client wanted us to focus on, with "Light" we wanted to capture as much as natural light from the large windows as possible. As for "Bright" we kept most of the finishes grey and white and clean. Pops of colour and warm hardwood flooring tie the entire space together.

Cat Neitzey of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Fredericksburg, VA, in collaboration with Abby Construction, designed a transitional kitchen design featuring Masterpiece cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Masterpiece Gallina door style in Maple in a Dove White finish for the perimeter and a Midnight Blue finish for the island. The design also features both finishes on tall cabinets designed for pantry, display and coffee bar use. The kitchen also includes Cambria Portrush for the countertops, full height and standard backsplashes. “Cat knew her products and knew good design. She was a great problem solver,” said the client. According to Cat, Abby Construction undertook the transformation of a 1951 home from traditional to modern, open, and accessible, enabling its owners to age gracefully. They reconfigured doors, walls and the façade, integrating the garage into the living space. "The clients' construction background and design expertise positioned them as the ideal team to tackle a project of this magnitude. Throughout the process, we maintained frequent communication, meeting regularly both on-site and in the showroom. Our primary challenge arose from the evolving plan, necessitated by the structural alterations to the existing house, which impacted the future design," said Cat. “Our primary focus was to keep the design accessible. We needed to dramatically increase the amount of storage from the original kitchen. Adding roll trays, drawers, a base microwave and a mixer pop up ensured that everything remained easily within reach.” Photos courtesy of Tim Snyder Photography.

Photo by Mike Casey Cramped, uncomfortable, and out of date: when the owners of this home approached us about renovating their kitchen and adjoining sunroom, these were high on their list of complaints. OPENING UP THE KITCHEN Our plan kept the kitchen in the same location but took down the walls between both the dining room and the sunroom to create an expansive multi-purpose space with spectacular views to conservation land along the back of the property. We removed the powder room and in its place created a window-lined hallway to the living room—opening up direct access between these two previously disconnected spaces. We then built a new half bath between these two rooms, with a door along the back hallway. The result is a more private powder room that is easier to access than before. Significantly improved cabinetry provides ample storage for both human and canine needs. An island countertop is functional and pleasant, enabling the owners to prep for and clean up from dinner all while enjoying the view of the woods behind their house. CREATING COMFORT We also completely rebuilt the sunroom, thickening the framing to allow for extra insulation and raising the roof to accommodate a higher ceiling and tall windows that let in as much natural light as the skylights they replaced, but much less of the solar gain that had made the room so intolerable in the summer. We improved visual connections between spaces and admitted more natural light by converting the framing of the main stairway from full to half walls. We also insulated the attic and replaced an aging, inefficient central air conditioning system with ductless minisplit heat pumps, which can also be used as supplemental heat. All in all, this was our kind of project: we made the home more attractive, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient—all over the course of a single, well-integrated project.

2010 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER The homeowner wanted to add square footage and implement an aging-in-place strategy that will enable her to live out her days in residence with dignified self-sufficiency. Specifically, she was seeking an updated family room and larger master bedroom suite. Additionally, she wanted to maintain the original intent of the Cape Cod style. A 28’ x 29’ addition was split between the new family room and the new master suite. First, every doorway into the master suite was redone for better accessibility. The suite itself features a cathedral ceiling, skylights and recessed lighting. The master suite bathroom has features a whirlpool bath, walk-in shower and double vanity. Grab bars and other handicap-accessible features are incorporated for aging in place living. A double-sided fireplace connects the master suite and the family room.

Cat Neitzey of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Fredericksburg, VA, in collaboration with Abby Construction, designed a transitional kitchen design featuring Masterpiece cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Masterpiece Gallina door style in Maple in a Dove White finish for the perimeter and a Midnight Blue finish for the island. The design also features both finishes on tall cabinets designed for pantry, display and coffee bar use. The kitchen also includes Cambria Portrush for the countertops, full height and standard backsplashes. “Cat knew her products and knew good design. She was a great problem solver,” said the client. According to Cat, Abby Construction undertook the transformation of a 1951 home from traditional to modern, open, and accessible, enabling its owners to age gracefully. They reconfigured doors, walls and the façade, integrating the garage into the living space. "The clients' construction background and design expertise positioned them as the ideal team to tackle a project of this magnitude. Throughout the process, we maintained frequent communication, meeting regularly both on-site and in the showroom. Our primary challenge arose from the evolving plan, necessitated by the structural alterations to the existing house, which impacted the future design," said Cat. “Our primary focus was to keep the design accessible. We needed to dramatically increase the amount of storage from the original kitchen. Adding roll trays, drawers, a base microwave and a mixer pop up ensured that everything remained easily within reach.” Photos courtesy of Tim Snyder Photography.

By the time we began this kitchen in Jamison we were already well versed in our clients preferences having previously completed an entire finished basement and staircase renovation. Deep natural wood tones, lots of modern technology, and an expansive island made this kitchen their own. Custom inserts inside the cabinets and lots of lower drawers added functionality and ease of access while up above the cabinets we added a row of false fronts that enabled us to implement over cabinet as well as under cabinet lighting. The natural stone tile backsplash added to the grounding earthy elements of this kitchen to create a space that is open and inviting yet also grounding and cozy. All of the appliances are WiFi enabled smart devices and the sink has a smart faucet that can be turned on just by being touched.

THE SETUP The original L-shaped guest bathroom, primarily utilized by the client’s young nephews, presented several design challenges. The entry door’s placement at the top of the stairs created an awkward flow, while the lack of natural light and the sectioned-off toilet and shower area contributed to a cramped and dimly lit ambiance. Design Objectives: Reconfigure the floor plan to improve guest access and circulation Create a versatile space that accommodates both young guests and adult needs Introduce natural light to brighten the overall ambiance Incorporate a tub/shower combination suitable for children while meeting adult requirements Design Challenges: Relocating the entry door to a more functional position Finding an optimal layout to open up the entire bathroom as a unified space Maximizing natural light and creating a bright, inviting atmosphere Updating the tub/shower area with a refreshed look while ensuring child-friendly features THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Reconfigured floor plan with the entry door relocated to the main hallway for seamless guest access Removal of the dividing wall separating the toilet and tub/shower area, enabling an open, spacious layout Strategic placement of a window to flood the space with natural light. Also – careful selection of materials and finishes contributing to the bright and airy aesthetic Inclusion of a handheld showerhead serving as a lower shower option for young guests The new floor plan and the introduction of natural light have transformed this guest bathroom into a radiant, welcoming space. The dual vanity sinks and tall storage cabinet cater to versatile needs, while the terracotta floor tiles harmonize beautifully with the overall design, adding warmth and style. The decision to keep a shower curtain for the tub/shower combination enhances the open and airy feel. Thoughtful details, such as the gear-inspired faucet handles and complementary light fixtures above the mirrors, add a touch of edgy sophistication to this multifunctional guest retreat.

The primary goal of this landscape design project was to create a serene and accessible patio area that is wheelchair friendly, enabling the homeowner to freely navigate, engage with planters, and savor outdoor moments. To achieve this, we removed obtrusive posts and introduced a sturdy steel beam to open up the space, providing an unobstructed pathway. The homeowners expressed a preference for the timeless beauty of natural Pennsylvania bluestone, which we artfully incorporated into the design. Incorporating a water feature into this unique diagonal lot added an extra touch of tranquility to the landscape. Emphasizing sustainability, we predominantly utilized native plants, weaving together all the desired elements. The result is a harmonious outdoor oasis, thoughtfully designed to cater to both aesthetics and accessibility, where the homeowners can cherish the beauty of their surroundings.

This Bernal junior home had a spectacular view that no one could see. Standard of junior floor plans of the era, the bathroom and kitchen had tiny windows that tied up some of the best space the home had to offer. A complete renovation and addition to this home doubled its living space allowing us to capture the view and provide ample space for modern living. Bi-folding NanaWall and a seamless concrete finish bring the outside in and inextricably tie this home to the uninterrupted panorama. Constructed at the end of the project, the deck proves that necessity is the mother of invention. Given budget and access constraints, it was not possible to excavate any more foundations. The braced structural supports provide the innovative solution without relinquishing aesthetic and function, allowing the concrete floors to spill out and provide access to the back garden. Given the transformation this project offered, renderings of the proposed spaces early in the process enabled the owners to visualize and add the finishing touches to complete their new home.

THE SETUP The original L-shaped guest bathroom, primarily utilized by the client’s young nephews, presented several design challenges. The entry door’s placement at the top of the stairs created an awkward flow, while the lack of natural light and the sectioned-off toilet and shower area contributed to a cramped and dimly lit ambiance. Design Objectives: Reconfigure the floor plan to improve guest access and circulation Create a versatile space that accommodates both young guests and adult needs Introduce natural light to brighten the overall ambiance Incorporate a tub/shower combination suitable for children while meeting adult requirements Design Challenges: Relocating the entry door to a more functional position Finding an optimal layout to open up the entire bathroom as a unified space Maximizing natural light and creating a bright, inviting atmosphere Updating the tub/shower area with a refreshed look while ensuring child-friendly features THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Reconfigured floor plan with the entry door relocated to the main hallway for seamless guest access Removal of the dividing wall separating the toilet and tub/shower area, enabling an open, spacious layout Strategic placement of a window to flood the space with natural light. Also – careful selection of materials and finishes contributing to the bright and airy aesthetic Inclusion of a handheld showerhead serving as a lower shower option for young guests The new floor plan and the introduction of natural light have transformed this guest bathroom into a radiant, welcoming space. The dual vanity sinks and tall storage cabinet cater to versatile needs, while the terracotta floor tiles harmonize beautifully with the overall design, adding warmth and style. The decision to keep a shower curtain for the tub/shower combination enhances the open and airy feel. Thoughtful details, such as the gear-inspired faucet handles and complementary light fixtures above the mirrors, add a touch of edgy sophistication to this multifunctional guest retreat.

By the time we began this kitchen in Jamison we were already well versed in our clients preferences having previously completed an entire finished basement and staircase renovation. Deep natural wood tones, lots of modern technology, and an expansive island made this kitchen their own. Custom inserts inside the cabinets and lots of lower drawers added functionality and ease of access while up above the cabinets we added a row of false fronts that enabled us to implement over cabinet as well as under cabinet lighting. The natural stone tile backsplash added to the grounding earthy elements of this kitchen to create a space that is open and inviting yet also grounding and cozy. All of the appliances are WiFi enabled smart devices and the sink has a smart faucet that can be turned on just by being touched.

Cat Neitzey of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Fredericksburg, VA, in collaboration with Abby Construction, designed a transitional kitchen design featuring Masterpiece cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Masterpiece Gallina door style in Maple in a Dove White finish for the perimeter and a Midnight Blue finish for the island. The design also features both finishes on tall cabinets designed for pantry, display and coffee bar use. The kitchen also includes Cambria Portrush for the countertops, full height and standard backsplashes. “Cat knew her products and knew good design. She was a great problem solver,” said the client. According to Cat, Abby Construction undertook the transformation of a 1951 home from traditional to modern, open, and accessible, enabling its owners to age gracefully. They reconfigured doors, walls and the façade, integrating the garage into the living space. "The clients' construction background and design expertise positioned them as the ideal team to tackle a project of this magnitude. Throughout the process, we maintained frequent communication, meeting regularly both on-site and in the showroom. Our primary challenge arose from the evolving plan, necessitated by the structural alterations to the existing house, which impacted the future design," said Cat. “Our primary focus was to keep the design accessible. We needed to dramatically increase the amount of storage from the original kitchen. Adding roll trays, drawers, a base microwave and a mixer pop up ensured that everything remained easily within reach.” Photos courtesy of Tim Snyder Photography.

This modern-style executive home takes full advantage of the views and rocky terrain. The homeowners are retirees whose goal was to build a home that they could age in place in. Taking their needs into consideration, we created a large open concept design that takes advantage of the natural light and scenery while enabling the owners full accessibility throughout. All the primary rooms are located on the main floor with guest and additional spaces on lower floors. All door widths were increased and a roll thru shower was installed to allow for wheelchair accessibility if required in the future. The entire house is controlled by a state of the art iPad home automation system controlling media, mechanical systems, lighting & security. "Light & Bright" are the items our client wanted us to focus on, with "Light" we wanted to capture as much as natural light from the large windows as possible. As for "Bright" we kept most of the finishes grey and white and clean. Pops of colour and warm hardwood flooring tie the entire space together.

This modern-style executive home takes full advantage of the views and rocky terrain. The homeowners are retirees whose goal was to build a home that they could age in place in. Taking their needs into consideration, we created a large open concept design that takes advantage of the natural light and scenery while enabling the owners full accessibility throughout. All the primary rooms are located on the main floor with guest and additional spaces on lower floors. All door widths were increased and a roll thru shower was installed to allow for wheelchair accessibility if required in the future. The entire house is controlled by a state of the art iPad home automation system controlling media, mechanical systems, lighting & security. "Light & Bright" are the items our client wanted us to focus on, with "Light" we wanted to capture as much as natural light from the large windows as possible. As for "Bright" we kept most of the finishes grey and white and clean. Pops of colour and warm hardwood flooring tie the entire space together.

By the time we began this kitchen in Jamison we were already well versed in our clients preferences having previously completed an entire finished basement and staircase renovation. Deep natural wood tones, lots of modern technology, and an expansive island made this kitchen their own. Custom inserts inside the cabinets and lots of lower drawers added functionality and ease of access while up above the cabinets we added a row of false fronts that enabled us to implement over cabinet as well as under cabinet lighting. The natural stone tile backsplash added to the grounding earthy elements of this kitchen to create a space that is open and inviting yet also grounding and cozy. All of the appliances are WiFi enabled smart devices and the sink has a smart faucet that can be turned on just by being touched.