The private home, reminiscent of Maine lodges and family camps, was designed to be a sanctuary for the family and their many relatives. Lassel Architects worked closely with the owners to meet their needs and wishes and collaborated thoroughly with the builder during the construction process to provide a meticulously crafted home. The open-concept plan, framed by a unique timber frame inspired by Greene & Greene’s designs, provides large open spaces for entertaining with generous views to the lake, along with sleeping lofts that comfortably host a crowd overnight. Each of the family members' bedrooms was configured to provide a view to the lake. The bedroom wings pivot off a staircase which winds around a natural tree trunk up to a tower room with 360-degree views of the surrounding lake and forest. All interiors are framed with natural wood and custom-built furniture and cabinets reinforce daily use and activities. The family enjoys the home throughout the entire year; therefore careful attention was paid to insulation, air tightness and efficient mechanical systems, including in-floor heating. The house was integrated into the natural topography of the site to connect the interior and exterior spaces and encourage an organic circulation flow. Solar orientation and summer and winter sun angles were studied to shade in the summer and take advantage of passive solar gain in the winter. Equally important was the use of natural ventilation. The design takes into account cross-ventilation for each bedroom while high and low awning windows to allow cool air to move through the home replacing warm air in the upper floor. The tower functions as a private space with great light and views with the advantage of the Venturi effect on warm summer evenings. Sandy Agrafiotis

Guadalajara, San Clemente Coastal Modern Remodel This major remodel and addition set out to take full advantage of the incredible view and create a clear connection to both the front and rear yards. The clients really wanted a pool and a home that they could enjoy with their kids and take full advantage of the beautiful climate that Southern California has to offer. The existing front yard was completely given to the street, so privatizing the front yard with new landscaping and a low wall created an opportunity to connect the home to a private front yard. Upon entering the home a large staircase blocked the view through to the ocean so removing that space blocker opened up the view and created a large great room. Indoor outdoor living was achieved through the usage of large sliding doors which allow that seamless connection to the patio space that overlooks a new pool and view to the ocean. A large garden is rare so a new pool and bocce ball court were integrated to encourage the outdoor active lifestyle that the clients love. The clients love to travel and wanted display shelving and wall space to display the art they had collected all around the world. A natural material palette gives a warmth and texture to the modern design that creates a feeling that the home is lived in. Though a subtle change from the street, upon entering the front door the home opens up through the layers of space to a new lease on life with this remodel.

This North York home renovation was designed to perfectly suit a vibrant professional couple, their two active teenagers, and their pets, combining beauty and functionality to match their busy lifestyle. The home needed a functional overhaul, particularly in the kitchen, powder room, master ensuite, and underutilized basement. The clients, eager for an upgrade but short on time, entrusted the project to a team that prioritized communication, thoughtful design, and a seamless process. The kitchen was completely reimagined with custom cabinetry, maximizing storage and accessibility. A redesigned island now allows access from all sides, improving flow for cooking and family gatherings. New countertops, contemporary flooring, and a balanced mix of crisp tiles and warm wall tones created a cohesive, inviting atmosphere. The master ensuite was transformed into a luxurious retreat with elegant stone-style tiles, an expanded glass-enclosed shower, and a striking tiled feature wall framing the bathtub, delivering both beauty and improved functionality. To refresh the powder room and entryway on a budget, professional grout cleaning gave existing tiles a new life. Modern lighting and bright wallpaper added charm and energy, welcoming guests into the home. The basement, tailored for the teens and pets, became a cozy entertainment space, separated by subtle partitions for added privacy and comfort. One notable challenge involved seamlessly transitioning between wood-look porcelain tiles in the kitchen and the existing hardwood floors—a task achieved through careful planning and execution, ensuring a flawless blend. A highlight of the project came when the client saw the near-final result and expressed amazement at the transformation, calling it a “WOW factor.” The result is a home that perfectly balances style and practicality. The streamlined kitchen, spa-like ensuite, refreshed powder room, and tailored basement now enhance daily life and encourage quality time as a family. This project stands as a testament to thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship, creating a space that reflects the family’s energy and personality while supporting their needs for years to come.

Travel is more than just the act of going from one place to another; it’s an exploration of new perspectives, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, the journey holds the power to change you in unexpected ways. Exoticca Helps a lot to Travel. 1. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination Too often, we focus on reaching the destination, ticking off items on our travel bucket list. But some of the most memorable moments in travel happen when we slow down and engage with the world around us. Take time to walk through a bustling market, share a meal with a local family, or simply sit on a beach at sunset. These moments allow us to experience the true essence of a place beyond its landmarks. 2. Travel with Purpose In today’s fast-paced world, many travelers are seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences. Whether it’s volunteering in a foreign country, participating in eco-tourism, or learning a new skill, travel can be a gateway to personal growth. Traveling with purpose adds value to your journey and ensures that it impacts not only you but the places you visit. Volunteering in a community, helping preserve nature, or supporting local artisans can leave you with a sense of accomplishment and connection to the world. 3. The Magic of Cultural Immersion One of the best ways to travel is to truly immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting. Skip the tourist traps and spend time in local neighborhoods. Try the street food, learn a few words in the local language, and embrace local traditions. The more you engage with the culture, the richer your experience will be. This immersion leads to a greater understanding and respect for different ways of life, fostering deeper connections between people across the globe. 4. Sustainable Travel: A Responsibility for the Future As travelers, we must recognize the impact our journeys can have on the environment. Sustainable travel practices are becoming more essential than ever before. From reducing plastic usage to supporting eco-friendly accommodations, there are many ways to ensure that our travels leave a positive legacy. Before your trip, research sustainable activities, respect wildlife, and consider how your visit affects local ecosystems. This mindset not only protects the planet but enhances your overall travel experience by aligning it with a purpose. 5. Travel Challenges: Growth Through Adversity It’s not always smooth sailing. Missed flights, language barriers, unexpected weather, or cultural misunderstandings can make travel seem daunting. However, these challenges can also offer some of the most rewarding experiences. Overcoming adversity while traveling encourages adaptability, patience, and resilience. These moments allow you to connect more deeply with yourself and the world, turning what could be a frustrating experience into an unforgettable lesson in growth. 6. Rediscovering Yourself Through Travel The act of leaving behind your daily routine and exploring new places often leads to self-reflection. Away from the distractions of everyday life, you have space to reconnect with yourself. Whether it’s finding peace in nature, discovering a new passion, or challenging your comfort zone, travel is a powerful tool for self-discovery. Many travelers report feeling more energized, inspired, and aware of their true desires after a meaningful journey. 7. Tips for a Seamless Travel Experience To make the most of your travels, planning is key. Here are a few tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey: Research your destination: Learn about the local culture, customs, and etiquette to show respect and avoid misunderstandings. Pack smart: Pack light and include only essentials to keep your travels stress-free. A good travel bag and comfortable shoes are a must! Stay flexible: Sometimes, plans go awry. Stay adaptable and be open to spontaneous adventures. Engage with locals: The best recommendations often come from those who live in the area. Don't be afraid to ask for tips or hidden gems. Capture memories: While it’s important to live in the moment, capturing photos or journaling your experiences can help you relive your journey long after it ends. 8. The Future of Travel: Trends to Watch As we look to the future, the way we travel is evolving. Virtual reality and AI are changing the way we plan and experience destinations, allowing for more personalized and immersive adventures. Moreover, the rise of wellness travel is focusing on mental and physical health, with more travelers seeking destinations that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. Regardless of how travel continues to evolve, the spirit of discovery and connection will always remain at the heart of every journey. Conclusion: Traveling for a Better World Travel is a transformative experience that connects us to the world, broadens our understanding, and enriches our lives. By approaching travel with an open mind, a sense of responsibility, and a desire for authentic experiences, we not only enhance our journeys but contribute to the global community. As you pack your bags for your next adventure, remember that every step you take is an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a more interconnected world.

Living room - mid-sized transitional open concept medium tone wood floor living room idea in Portland Maine with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a tile fireplace and a tv stand

The private home, reminiscent of Maine lodges and family camps, was designed to be a sanctuary for the family and their many relatives. Lassel Architects worked closely with the owners to meet their needs and wishes and collaborated thoroughly with the builder during the construction process to provide a meticulously crafted home. The open-concept plan, framed by a unique timber frame inspired by Greene & Greene’s designs, provides large open spaces for entertaining with generous views to the lake, along with sleeping lofts that comfortably host a crowd overnight. Each of the family members' bedrooms was configured to provide a view to the lake. The bedroom wings pivot off a staircase which winds around a natural tree trunk up to a tower room with 360-degree views of the surrounding lake and forest. All interiors are framed with natural wood and custom-built furniture and cabinets reinforce daily use and activities. The family enjoys the home throughout the entire year; therefore careful attention was paid to insulation, air tightness and efficient mechanical systems, including in-floor heating. The house was integrated into the natural topography of the site to connect the interior and exterior spaces and encourage an organic circulation flow. Solar orientation and summer and winter sun angles were studied to shade in the summer and take advantage of passive solar gain in the winter. Equally important was the use of natural ventilation. The design takes into account cross-ventilation for each bedroom while high and low awning windows to allow cool air to move through the home replacing warm air in the upper floor. The tower functions as a private space with great light and views with the advantage of the Venturi effect on warm summer evenings. Sandy Agrafiotis

Guadalajara, San Clemente Coastal Modern Remodel This major remodel and addition set out to take full advantage of the incredible view and create a clear connection to both the front and rear yards. The clients really wanted a pool and a home that they could enjoy with their kids and take full advantage of the beautiful climate that Southern California has to offer. The existing front yard was completely given to the street, so privatizing the front yard with new landscaping and a low wall created an opportunity to connect the home to a private front yard. Upon entering the home a large staircase blocked the view through to the ocean so removing that space blocker opened up the view and created a large great room. Indoor outdoor living was achieved through the usage of large sliding doors which allow that seamless connection to the patio space that overlooks a new pool and view to the ocean. A large garden is rare so a new pool and bocce ball court were integrated to encourage the outdoor active lifestyle that the clients love. The clients love to travel and wanted display shelving and wall space to display the art they had collected all around the world. A natural material palette gives a warmth and texture to the modern design that creates a feeling that the home is lived in. Though a subtle change from the street, upon entering the front door the home opens up through the layers of space to a new lease on life with this remodel.

A children's playroom should be a fun and inviting space that encourages play, creativity, and imagination. Bright colors, soft textures, and plenty of toys and games can help create an exciting and comfortable environment. Storage space is also important to keep the room organized and clutter-free. Consider adding a reading nook, art station, or dress-up area to inspire a range of activities. Safety should always be a top priority, so be sure to choose age-appropriate toys and furniture and keep the room free of hazards. Overall, a well-designed playroom can provide hours of entertainment and fun for children of all ages.

This open kitchen and living design meets the lifestyle needs of an active household and encourages guests to hang out or join in the food prep when entertaining. The bright, open transitional style strikes the perfect balance between traditional and modern design schemes.

This North York home renovation was designed to perfectly suit a vibrant professional couple, their two active teenagers, and their pets, combining beauty and functionality to match their busy lifestyle. The home needed a functional overhaul, particularly in the kitchen, powder room, master ensuite, and underutilized basement. The clients, eager for an upgrade but short on time, entrusted the project to a team that prioritized communication, thoughtful design, and a seamless process. The kitchen was completely reimagined with custom cabinetry, maximizing storage and accessibility. A redesigned island now allows access from all sides, improving flow for cooking and family gatherings. New countertops, contemporary flooring, and a balanced mix of crisp tiles and warm wall tones created a cohesive, inviting atmosphere. The master ensuite was transformed into a luxurious retreat with elegant stone-style tiles, an expanded glass-enclosed shower, and a striking tiled feature wall framing the bathtub, delivering both beauty and improved functionality. To refresh the powder room and entryway on a budget, professional grout cleaning gave existing tiles a new life. Modern lighting and bright wallpaper added charm and energy, welcoming guests into the home. The basement, tailored for the teens and pets, became a cozy entertainment space, separated by subtle partitions for added privacy and comfort. One notable challenge involved seamlessly transitioning between wood-look porcelain tiles in the kitchen and the existing hardwood floors—a task achieved through careful planning and execution, ensuring a flawless blend. A highlight of the project came when the client saw the near-final result and expressed amazement at the transformation, calling it a “WOW factor.” The result is a home that perfectly balances style and practicality. The streamlined kitchen, spa-like ensuite, refreshed powder room, and tailored basement now enhance daily life and encourage quality time as a family. This project stands as a testament to thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship, creating a space that reflects the family’s energy and personality while supporting their needs for years to come.

Imagine a breathtaking new or extensively refurbished home that’s been designed, crafted and constructed to your own specifications, right down to the very last detail. Much of what we create is hand carved, constructed and finished, so we actively encourage and employ master craftspeople at many stages of the build journey. In return, these talented individuals provide us with the creativity and expertise that turns our bespoke properties into real stand-out solutions, and that makes the Goldemline Remodeling worthy of its name.

The Home Nestled in Jackson Ranch, Thurston House welcomes you to experience the solace and comfort of this warm and peaceful home. As you step past the barnwood accented exterior, you enter a refined rustic interior with a barnwood wall and century-old beams gracing the great room. Durable, luxury, vinyl, tile flooring leads you further in, past a front office with ample sunlight. Relax as you gaze upon the Front Range, through the pines, from the great room - while a wood-burning fire crackles nearby. Continue into the spacious kitchen, complete with custom cabinets and more amazing views. An expansive walk-in pantry gives way to an oversized garage, a builder and hobbyist’s dream space. Steps away from the kitchen, the master bedroom envelops you, providing those awe-inspiring views, while balancing privacy in the pines. Whether you seek to entertain or to escape, the downstairs of Thurston House delivers. The stairs open to a lounge, complete with a wood-burning fireplace and abundant screen space, while a wet bar is tucked away for close conversation. Additional bedrooms offer comfort and privacy for overnight guests. A home gym leads to the privacy of your backyard among the pines, with mountain views to motivate you. The Builder Custom Design Builders (CDB) provides a relational partnership aimed at building the home that exists in your mind. Founder and president, Ben Woody, draws on the practical creativity of his nearly 30 years of construction experience, along with the safety consciousness he acquired as a firefighter. Ben is skillful at building according to your desires, incorporating a thoughtful design that balances safety and functionality in a dynamic process. CDB relies on the expertise acquired from years of building partnerships with the most reliable tradesmen in the area. Our team of partners consistently delivers the highest quality products and services, which has helped drive our exponential growth via word-of-mouth referrals. As a family-owned and operated business, CDB understands relationships. Engaging in a partnership with CDB is to take on an active role in designing and defining your project, while relying on the comfort and security that can only come from decades of experience. The Interior Design Thurston House brings a feeling of warmth, comfort and hospitality. Modern accents elevate your living experience by highlighting the character of century-old, hand-hewn beams and barnwood. A luxurious freestanding bathtub and Euro-style shower in the master bathroom encourage you to relax and recharge in your own spa-like retreat. Energy efficient HVAC and water systems, appliances and windows minimize your footprint. Durable flooring offers stability and longevity, and hand trowel-finished drywall with reclaimed wood accents provide a warm background for your life. The open floor plan lends itself to entertaining, and the views of the Front Range through the pines are enticing. These same spaces also feel private and individual. Whether training in the home gym for your next marathon, building your dream canoe in the garage, or relaxing while you listen to the crackle of a fire in your fireplace accented by those hand-hewn beams, Thurston House is a stunning place to call home.

The private home, reminiscent of Maine lodges and family camps, was designed to be a sanctuary for the family and their many relatives. Lassel Architects worked closely with the owners to meet their needs and wishes and collaborated thoroughly with the builder during the construction process to provide a meticulously crafted home. The open-concept plan, framed by a unique timber frame inspired by Greene & Greene’s designs, provides large open spaces for entertaining with generous views to the lake, along with sleeping lofts that comfortably host a crowd overnight. Each of the family members' bedrooms was configured to provide a view to the lake. The bedroom wings pivot off a staircase which winds around a natural tree trunk up to a tower room with 360-degree views of the surrounding lake and forest. All interiors are framed with natural wood and custom-built furniture and cabinets reinforce daily use and activities. The family enjoys the home throughout the entire year; therefore careful attention was paid to insulation, air tightness and efficient mechanical systems, including in-floor heating. The house was integrated into the natural topography of the site to connect the interior and exterior spaces and encourage an organic circulation flow. Solar orientation and summer and winter sun angles were studied to shade in the summer and take advantage of passive solar gain in the winter. Equally important was the use of natural ventilation. The design takes into account cross-ventilation for each bedroom while high and low awning windows to allow cool air to move through the home replacing warm air in the upper floor. The tower functions as a private space with great light and views with the advantage of the Venturi effect on warm summer evenings. Sandy Agrafiotis

The Home Nestled in Jackson Ranch, Thurston House welcomes you to experience the solace and comfort of this warm and peaceful home. As you step past the barnwood accented exterior, you enter a refined rustic interior with a barnwood wall and century-old beams gracing the great room. Durable, luxury, vinyl, tile flooring leads you further in, past a front office with ample sunlight. Relax as you gaze upon the Front Range, through the pines, from the great room - while a wood-burning fire crackles nearby. Continue into the spacious kitchen, complete with custom cabinets and more amazing views. An expansive walk-in pantry gives way to an oversized garage, a builder and hobbyist’s dream space. Steps away from the kitchen, the master bedroom envelops you, providing those awe-inspiring views, while balancing privacy in the pines. Whether you seek to entertain or to escape, the downstairs of Thurston House delivers. The stairs open to a lounge, complete with a wood-burning fireplace and abundant screen space, while a wet bar is tucked away for close conversation. Additional bedrooms offer comfort and privacy for overnight guests. A home gym leads to the privacy of your backyard among the pines, with mountain views to motivate you. The Builder Custom Design Builders (CDB) provides a relational partnership aimed at building the home that exists in your mind. Founder and president, Ben Woody, draws on the practical creativity of his nearly 30 years of construction experience, along with the safety consciousness he acquired as a firefighter. Ben is skillful at building according to your desires, incorporating a thoughtful design that balances safety and functionality in a dynamic process. CDB relies on the expertise acquired from years of building partnerships with the most reliable tradesmen in the area. Our team of partners consistently delivers the highest quality products and services, which has helped drive our exponential growth via word-of-mouth referrals. As a family-owned and operated business, CDB understands relationships. Engaging in a partnership with CDB is to take on an active role in designing and defining your project, while relying on the comfort and security that can only come from decades of experience. The Interior Design Thurston House brings a feeling of warmth, comfort and hospitality. Modern accents elevate your living experience by highlighting the character of century-old, hand-hewn beams and barnwood. A luxurious freestanding bathtub and Euro-style shower in the master bathroom encourage you to relax and recharge in your own spa-like retreat. Energy efficient HVAC and water systems, appliances and windows minimize your footprint. Durable flooring offers stability and longevity, and hand trowel-finished drywall with reclaimed wood accents provide a warm background for your life. The open floor plan lends itself to entertaining, and the views of the Front Range through the pines are enticing. These same spaces also feel private and individual. Whether training in the home gym for your next marathon, building your dream canoe in the garage, or relaxing while you listen to the crackle of a fire in your fireplace accented by those hand-hewn beams, Thurston House is a stunning place to call home.

Kasia Karska Design is a design-build firm located in the heart of the Vail Valley and Colorado Rocky Mountains. The design and build process should feel effortless and enjoyable. Our strengths at KKD lie in our comprehensive approach. We understand that when our clients look for someone to design and build their dream home, there are many options for them to choose from. With nearly 25 years of experience, we understand the key factors that create a successful building project. -Seamless Service – we handle both the design and construction in-house -Constant Communication in all phases of the design and build -A unique home that is a perfect reflection of you -In-depth understanding of your requirements -Multi-faceted approach with additional studies in the traditions of Vaastu Shastra and Feng Shui Eastern design principles Because each home is entirely tailored to the individual client, they are all one-of-a-kind and entirely unique. We get to know our clients well and encourage them to be an active part of the design process in order to build their custom home. One driving factor as to why our clients seek us out is the fact that we handle all phases of the home design and build. There is no challenge too big because we have the tools and the motivation to build your custom home. At Kasia Karska Design, we focus on the details; and, being a women-run business gives us the advantage of being empathetic throughout the entire process. Thanks to our approach, many clients have trusted us with the design and build of their homes. If you’re ready to build a home that’s unique to your lifestyle, goals, and vision, Kasia Karska Design’s doors are always open. We look forward to helping you design and build the home of your dreams, your own personal sanctuary.

Kasia Karska Design is a design-build firm located in the heart of the Vail Valley and Colorado Rocky Mountains. The design and build process should feel effortless and enjoyable. Our strengths at KKD lie in our comprehensive approach. We understand that when our clients look for someone to design and build their dream home, there are many options for them to choose from. With nearly 25 years of experience, we understand the key factors that create a successful building project. -Seamless Service – we handle both the design and construction in-house -Constant Communication in all phases of the design and build -A unique home that is a perfect reflection of you -In-depth understanding of your requirements -Multi-faceted approach with additional studies in the traditions of Vaastu Shastra and Feng Shui Eastern design principles Because each home is entirely tailored to the individual client, they are all one-of-a-kind and entirely unique. We get to know our clients well and encourage them to be an active part of the design process in order to build their custom home. One driving factor as to why our clients seek us out is the fact that we handle all phases of the home design and build. There is no challenge too big because we have the tools and the motivation to build your custom home. At Kasia Karska Design, we focus on the details; and, being a women-run business gives us the advantage of being empathetic throughout the entire process. Thanks to our approach, many clients have trusted us with the design and build of their homes. If you’re ready to build a home that’s unique to your lifestyle, goals, and vision, Kasia Karska Design’s doors are always open. We look forward to helping you design and build the home of your dreams, your own personal sanctuary.

The main goal was to open the spaces up more on the main floor, to encourage large family gatherings and activities together. Which inspired us to take down the wall between the existing Kitchen and Dining Room, creating one large open space, big enough for a 12’ island and lots of prep area.

What better way to decorate a kid's room with personalized accents? Marilynn wanted to make this room cater to this lucky kid's every needs from toys to favorite colors! The table and chair set is a great way to insure a designated space for creative activities and school work. This kids room is sure to spark imagination and encourage education.

The private home, reminiscent of Maine lodges and family camps, was designed to be a sanctuary for the family and their many relatives. Lassel Architects worked closely with the owners to meet their needs and wishes and collaborated thoroughly with the builder during the construction process to provide a meticulously crafted home. The open-concept plan, framed by a unique timber frame inspired by Greene & Greene’s designs, provides large open spaces for entertaining with generous views to the lake, along with sleeping lofts that comfortably host a crowd overnight. Each of the family members' bedrooms was configured to provide a view to the lake. The bedroom wings pivot off a staircase which winds around a natural tree trunk up to a tower room with 360-degree views of the surrounding lake and forest. All interiors are framed with natural wood and custom-built furniture and cabinets reinforce daily use and activities. The family enjoys the home throughout the entire year; therefore careful attention was paid to insulation, air tightness and efficient mechanical systems, including in-floor heating. The house was integrated into the natural topography of the site to connect the interior and exterior spaces and encourage an organic circulation flow. Solar orientation and summer and winter sun angles were studied to shade in the summer and take advantage of passive solar gain in the winter. Equally important was the use of natural ventilation. The design takes into account cross-ventilation for each bedroom while high and low awning windows to allow cool air to move through the home replacing warm air in the upper floor. The tower functions as a private space with great light and views with the advantage of the Venturi effect on warm summer evenings. Sandy Agrafiotis