To optimize the views of the lake and maximize natural ventilation this 8,600 square-foot woodland oasis accomplishes just that and more. A selection of local materials of varying scales for the exterior and interior finishes, complements the surrounding environment and boast a welcoming setting for all to enjoy. A perfect combination of skirl siding and hand dipped shingles unites the exterior palette and allows for the interior finishes of aged pine paneling and douglas fir trim to define the space. This residence, houses a main-level master suite, a guest suite, and two upper-level bedrooms. An open-concept scheme creates a kitchen, dining room, living room and screened porch perfect for large family gatherings at the lake. Whether you want to enjoy the beautiful lake views from the expansive deck or curled up next to the natural stone fireplace, this stunning lodge offers a wide variety of spatial experiences. Photographer: Joseph St. Pierre

Entertainment centers and misc. other areas Main Line Kitchen Design is a group of skilled Kitchen Designers each with many years of experience planning kitchens around the Delaware Valley. Using doorstyle and finish kitchen cabinetry samples, photo design books, and laptops to display your kitchen as it is designed, we eliminate the need for and the cost associated with a showroom business model. This makes the design process more convenient for our customers, and we pass the significant savings on to them as well. Our design process also allows us to spend more time with our customers working on their designs. This is what we enjoy most about our business – it’s what brought us together in the first place. The kitchen cabinet lines we design with and sell are Jim Bishop, Durasupreme, 6 Square, Oracle, Village, Collier, and Bremtowm Fine Custom Cabinetry. Bob Graham Jr Photography

Meet Mary Strong. Mary has over 20 years experience in residential and commercial interior design. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Nesbitt School of Design at Drexel University. Strong relocated to the Houston area in 2008 from New York, and loves the diversity of Houston because it allows her to work with many different home styles. She enjoys interacting with people, and her skills and experience create beautiful results for her new and returning clients. Mary's preferred style is what she calls “today's traditional.” It is a mix of old and new; a fresh version of traditional design. One of her specialties is window treatments. She works closely with Star's drapery designers to create custom treatments for her clients' homes. Contact Mary Strong and let her know that you found her on Houzz.com. Webpage: https://www.starfurniture.com/mary-strong Address: Star Furniture, 16666 Barker Springs Road, Houston, TX Phone: 281-492-5494 Email: mstrong@starfurniture.com

A couple wanted a weekend retreat without spending a majority of their getaway in an automobile. Therefore, a lot was purchased along the Rocky River with the vision of creating a nearby escape less than five miles away from their home. This 1,300 sf 24’ x 24’ dwelling is divided into a four square quadrant with the goal to create a variety of interior and exterior experiences while maintaining a rather small footprint. Typically, when going on a weekend retreat one has the drive time to decompress. However, without this, the goal was to create a procession from the car to the house to signify such change of context. This concept was achieved through the use of a wood slatted screen wall which must be passed through. After winding around a collection of poured concrete steps and walls one comes to a wood plank bridge and crosses over a Japanese garden leaving all the stresses of the daily world behind. The house is structured around a nine column steel frame grid, which reinforces the impression one gets of the four quadrants. The two rear quadrants intentionally house enclosed program space but once passed through, the floor plan completely opens to long views down to the mouth of the river into Lake Erie. On the second floor the four square grid is stacked with one quadrant removed for the two story living area on the first floor to capture heightened views down the river. In a move to create complete separation there is a one quadrant roof top office with surrounding roof top garden space. The rooftop office is accessed through a unique approach by exiting onto a steel grated staircase which wraps up the exterior facade of the house. This experience provides an additional retreat within their weekend getaway, and serves as the apex of the house where one can completely enjoy the views of Lake Erie disappearing over the horizon. Visually the house extends into the riverside site, but the four quadrant axis also physically extends creating a series of experiences out on the property. The Northeast kitchen quadrant extends out to become an exterior kitchen & dining space. The two-story Northwest living room quadrant extends out to a series of wrap around steps and lounge seating. A fire pit sits in this quadrant as well farther out in the lawn. A fruit and vegetable garden sits out in the Southwest quadrant in near proximity to the shed, and the entry sequence is contained within the Southeast quadrant extension. Internally and externally the whole house is organized in a simple and concise way and achieves the ultimate goal of creating many different experiences within a rationally sized footprint. Photo: Sergiu Stoian

This modern, custom built oasis located on Lake Rosseau by Tamarack North is destined to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after a weekend spent here. Throughout both the exterior and interior of this home are a great use of textures and warm, earthy tones that make this cottage an experience of its own. The use of glass, stone and wood connect one with nature in a luxurious way. The great room of this contemporary build is surrounded by glass walls setting a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and enjoy time with friends and family. Featured in the bedrooms are sliding doors onto the outdoor patio so guests can begin their Muskoka experience the minute they wakeup. As every cottage should, this build features a Muskoka room with both the flooring and the walls made out of stone, as well as sliding doors onto the patio making for a true Muskoka room. Off the master ensuite is a beautiful private garden featuring an outdoor shower creating the perfect space to unwind and connect with nature. Tamarack North prides their company of professional engineers and builders passionate about serving Muskoka, Lake of Bays and Georgian Bay with fine seasonal homes.

The Belmont's Exterior presents a captivating blend of classic charm and contemporary elegance. The striking blue siding provides a vibrant and eye-catching backdrop, infusing the home with character and personality. The crisp white trim beautifully complements the blue siding, adding a touch of refinement and creating a clean and polished look. With woods behind it, the Belmont enjoys a serene and natural setting, offering a sense of tranquility and privacy. The wide front door serves as a warm and welcoming entrance, inviting guests to step inside and experience the beauty and comfort that awaits within. The Belmont's Exterior effortlessly combines style and functionality, showcasing an inviting and picturesque facade that will make a lasting impression.

Meet Mary Strong. Mary has over 20 years experience in residential and commercial interior design. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Nesbitt School of Design at Drexel University. Strong relocated to the Houston area in 2008 from New York, and loves the diversity of Houston because it allows her to work with many different home styles. She enjoys interacting with people, and her skills and experience create beautiful results for her new and returning clients. Mary's preferred style is what she calls “today's traditional.” It is a mix of old and new; a fresh version of traditional design. One of her specialties is window treatments. She works closely with Star's drapery designers to create custom treatments for her clients' homes. Contact Mary Strong and let her know that you found her on Houzz.com. Webpage: https://www.starfurniture.com/mary-strong Address: Star Furniture, 16666 Barker Springs Road, Houston, TX Phone: 281-492-5494 Email: mstrong@starfurniture.com

Who said you can't put your tub literally anywhere you want? And is that a new trend or a classic design element brought back from the past? Freestanding tubs are very popular and is not a secret that they can be an important factor when remodeling your master bathroom. Created to "shine" on it's own, the new freestanding tubs can be located anywhere, and "yes" I meant anywhere. I had a client that put her freestanding tub on her porch so that she can enjoy the amazing view of valley in her backyard...Today, the freestanding tubs are easy to plumb, easy to move and can be used as the focal point in your master suite. Whatever your style is traditional or modern the freestanding tubs will fit perfectly in your dream design when creating the special spa master bathroom experience. Call Building Pro today to schedule an appointment with the leading interior designer, Karin, so that you can soon enjoy your perfectly designed and remodeled master bath. Now serving the Kansas City metro area and Johnson county.

A couple wanted a weekend retreat without spending a majority of their getaway in an automobile. Therefore, a lot was purchased along the Rocky River with the vision of creating a nearby escape less than five miles away from their home. This 1,300 sf 24’ x 24’ dwelling is divided into a four square quadrant with the goal to create a variety of interior and exterior experiences while maintaining a rather small footprint. Typically, when going on a weekend retreat one has the drive time to decompress. However, without this, the goal was to create a procession from the car to the house to signify such change of context. This concept was achieved through the use of a wood slatted screen wall which must be passed through. After winding around a collection of poured concrete steps and walls one comes to a wood plank bridge and crosses over a Japanese garden leaving all the stresses of the daily world behind. The house is structured around a nine column steel frame grid, which reinforces the impression one gets of the four quadrants. The two rear quadrants intentionally house enclosed program space but once passed through, the floor plan completely opens to long views down to the mouth of the river into Lake Erie. On the second floor the four square grid is stacked with one quadrant removed for the two story living area on the first floor to capture heightened views down the river. In a move to create complete separation there is a one quadrant roof top office with surrounding roof top garden space. The rooftop office is accessed through a unique approach by exiting onto a steel grated staircase which wraps up the exterior facade of the house. This experience provides an additional retreat within their weekend getaway, and serves as the apex of the house where one can completely enjoy the views of Lake Erie disappearing over the horizon. Visually the house extends into the riverside site, but the four quadrant axis also physically extends creating a series of experiences out on the property. The Northeast kitchen quadrant extends out to become an exterior kitchen & dining space. The two-story Northwest living room quadrant extends out to a series of wrap around steps and lounge seating. A fire pit sits in this quadrant as well farther out in the lawn. A fruit and vegetable garden sits out in the Southwest quadrant in near proximity to the shed, and the entry sequence is contained within the Southeast quadrant extension. Internally and externally the whole house is organized in a simple and concise way and achieves the ultimate goal of creating many different experiences within a rationally sized footprint. Photo: Sergiu Stoian

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

This stunning Lafayette, California home exterior project features a beautifully designed outdoor patio that can be enjoyed year-round. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces is showcased in this design, making it perfect for warmer climates. The main entrance of this home has been strategically placed for maximum impact, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws you in. The garage, driveway, front and back patio all flow together seamlessly, creating a harmonious space that is both functional and beautiful. This home is the perfect example of how a well-executed design can transform a space and create a cohesive living experience.

This basement was built to entertain and impress. Every inch of this space was thoughtfully crafted to create an experience. Whether you are sitting at the bar watching the game, selecting your favorite wine, or getting cozy in a theater seat, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

A Sophisticated Multi-Zone Outdoor Living Experience This luxury outdoor living area, thoughtfully designed as three seamlessly connected yet distinct entertaining zones—each nestled beneath its own architecturally layered roofline, fulfilled every wish of our client. Enjoy a fully equipped gourmet outdoor kitchen and bar, an elegant dining pavilion, and a refined lounge with fireplace and large-screen TV, all styled for year-round comfort and effortless hosting. This stunning extension flows flawlessly from the home’s interior kitchen through to the ultimate man cave retreat, creating a cohesive indoor-outdoor experience that blends sophistication, functionality, and relaxation.

Creative work needs a space that helps you relax, think, and stay connected with nature — all at the same time. We incorporated the client's requirements, with a fireplace, an interrupted view of the lake, and a deck to experience the outdoors. Perfect for days when you want to stay cozy inside and enjoy the view outside. We matched the specifics of this project with the existing architecture and rustic elements that our client requested. Next, we'll head out on the deck right outside. For the bright days and when you need an outdoor experience - adjacent to the screened room - this deck with glass railings provided our client room for hanging out with loved ones, BBQ, or simply taking in nature. Location: Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia (just over 20Kms from Halifax downtown)

This modern, custom built oasis located on Lake Rosseau by Tamarack North is destined to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after a weekend spent here. Throughout both the exterior and interior of this home are a great use of textures and warm, earthy tones that make this cottage an experience of its own. The use of glass, stone and wood connect one with nature in a luxurious way. The great room of this contemporary build is surrounded by glass walls setting a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and enjoy time with friends and family. Featured in the bedrooms are sliding doors onto the outdoor patio so guests can begin their Muskoka experience the minute they wakeup. As every cottage should, this build features a Muskoka room with both the flooring and the walls made out of stone, as well as sliding doors onto the patio making for a true Muskoka room. Off the master ensuite is a beautiful private garden featuring an outdoor shower creating the perfect space to unwind and connect with nature. Tamarack North prides their company of professional engineers and builders passionate about serving Muskoka, Lake of Bays and Georgian Bay with fine seasonal homes.

About This Project: This cozy lakefront home is the perfect place to enjoy all that lake life has to offer. With plenty of room to entertain, play and relax, it’s the perfect spot for a family getaway or a romantic weekend escape. The expansive deck overlooking the lake is the perfect place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee or an evening glass of wine, and the large dock is great for swimming, fishing and boating. Inside, the comfortable living room with its wood-burning fireplace is the perfect place to curl up with a good book or watch a movie. And when it’s time to retire for the night, the spacious bedrooms with their views of the lake will ensure a good night’s sleep. So come and experience all that lake life has to offer at this cozy lakefront home. 41 West is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network. Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples. As a Certified Luxury Builder, 41 West is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information.

Shed Dormer and Composite Deck: Expanding Living Space and Enhancing Outdoor Enjoyment Experience the ultimate transformation with our Shed Dormer and Composite Deck services. We specialize in expanding living spaces and creating outdoor havens that elevate your home's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our Shed Dormer service is designed to maximize the available space in your home, especially in attics or upper-level areas with limited headroom. By adding a shed dormer, we create a sloped roof extension that not only increases the usable space but also floods the interior with natural light. The result is a more spacious, airy, and inviting living area that suits your evolving needs. In addition to the shed dormer, we offer a Composite Deck service that enhances your outdoor enjoyment and provides a low-maintenance, long-lasting solution. Our composite decking materials combine the natural beauty of wood with the durability and resistance of composite materials. The result is a stunning deck that withstands the elements, resists fading, and requires minimal upkeep. Imagine stepping onto your new composite deck, feeling the smooth surface underfoot as you relax and enjoy the outdoors. Whether it's hosting gatherings, unwinding with loved ones, or simply basking in the tranquility of your surroundings, our composite deck offers the perfect setting for all your outdoor activities. With our Shed Dormer and Composite Deck services, we bring together functionality and aesthetics, expanding your living space and creating an outdoor oasis that complements your lifestyle. Trust our expertise and attention to detail to transform your home, providing you with the ultimate comfort and enjoyment for years to come.