Crimsoneyed Rosemallow (Hibiscus moscheutos). Photo: Michael Gras, M.Ed., licensed under Creative Commons Attribution- 2.0 Generic
Inspiration for a landscaping in Other.

Established in 1886, Thibaut is the nation’s oldest continuously operating wallpaper firm. Over the years our product offering has broadened to include a variety of wallcoverings, coordinating print fabrics, embroideries and woven upholstery fabrics. The recent launch of an upholstered furniture line has established Thibaut as a highly desirable resource of all product categories favored by designers and up-scale consumers alike. Thibaut has become synonymous with beautiful traditional and transitional designs in signature color palettes. We offer unsurpassed quality and great design in styles ranging from historic reproductions and traditional, classic patterns to tropical and novelty patterns. Our offering is extended by the acquisition of UK based Anna French, a luxury brand of wallcoverings, fabrics, embroideries and Scottish lace. Anna continues as a source of inspiration to the design team at Thibaut, assuring that her energy and style are infused in new collections.

St. Andrews Project — Custom Kitchen & Sculptural Island This York Mills kitchen is conceived as a highly tailored architectural composition where traditional cabinetry is reinterpreted through contemporary detailing, creating a space that feels refined, functional, and distinctly custom. The design is built around a restrained palette of warm white, natural oak, charcoal, and aged-brass accents. The cabinetry establishes a calm architectural envelope, while finely fluted detailing introduces texture and repetition across the island, upper cabinetry, and selected architectural surfaces. This creates a cohesive visual rhythm without relying on excessive ornament. The island is the defining element of the kitchen. Its generous sculptural curve softens the strong linear geometry of the surrounding cabinetry and creates a more fluid transition through the space. The deep charcoal finish gives the island visual weight, while the slender brass accent beneath the countertop introduces a precise, jewelry-like detail that elevates the composition. The fluted surface catches light subtly, adding depth and movement as the viewer moves through the room. The range wall is intentionally quieter, allowing the architectural detailing to frame the cooking zone rather than compete with it. Integrated cabinetry, concealed appliances, tailored hardware, and a softly illuminated backsplash maintain a sense of visual order. The combination of panelled doors and vertical fluting creates a sophisticated dialogue between classic cabinetry proportions and contemporary surface treatment. Natural oak flooring introduces warmth and grounds the predominantly light palette. Its honeyed tone provides an important counterbalance to the cooler whites and dark island, while visually connecting the kitchen to the home's other warm wood elements. Large black-framed windows bring natural light deep into the kitchen and establish a direct relationship with the exterior. The contrast of the dark window frames against the white architectural envelope reinforces the home's broader black-and-white design language. Overall, the kitchen is designed around contrast, repetition, and proportion. Traditional cabinetry gives the space its timeless foundation, while sculptural geometry, fluted textures, dark finishes, and restrained brass detailing bring a contemporary edge. The result is a sophisticated luxury kitchen that feels designed as part of the architecture rather than inserted into it.

Nestled in an exclusive Scottsdale enclave, this garden amendment and redesign captures the charm of both the home and the homeowner. A garden of softness, texture, and ever-changing color was the understanding throughout the design process. Creating interest and establishing pattern were cornerstones in the linear spaces, curvilinear walkways and paths guide visitors through their outdoor living space. Establishing an enjoyable entertaining space and bringing the outdoors “in” were paramount when constructing this scaled botanical garden.

Photo by Alexandre Kühl Oliveira The rehabilitation project of the apartment is located in Lisbon, at Pascoal de Melo street, part of a mid-twentieth century building, in reasonable condition. The goal was to be able to feel the spaces always differently, in the way of use (cooking, sleeping, relaxing) and their interaction. The entire apartment has been designed taking into account the many sensorial appreciations. A set of points of view and volumes were established from the same space, reinforced by the chosen materials. On the kitchen, the project takes advantage of natural lighting, replacing the existing furniture for higher span, brighter and higher furniture and light-colored finishes that are great reflectors. In addition, the functional kitchen organization was re-designed in order to concentrate tall furniture at the entrance, freeing the area by the window to allow more light involvement. Three separate areas have been established: the cooking set with two countertops drawn from the wall to the floor, the kitchen sink closely resembles the high furniture of the kitchen and the dinning area by the window, which is more sheltered. The space once again aims to different points of view and the concept of voyeur is implicit.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled in an exclusive Scottsdale enclave, this garden amendment and redesign captures the charm of both the home and the homeowner. A garden of softness, texture, and ever-changing color was the understanding throughout the design process. Creating interest and establishing pattern were cornerstones in the linear spaces, curvilinear walkways and paths guide visitors through their outdoor living space. Establishing an enjoyable entertaining space and bringing the outdoors “in” were paramount when constructing this scaled botanical garden.

Original Catalog Description from 1878-1895: From the J. M. Brunswick and Balke Company catalog: The Monarch. This magnificent table embodies great solidity and massiveness of construction, with elegance and grace of design. It is very ornamental, the sides being of wood tastefully inlaid with various colored mosaics, and the legs being of iron finished in black and gold. A leveling screw in the center of the feet assists in establishing a perfect level over the entire surface of the table. It is unique in style and a departure from the established idea of a billiard table, and has met with much favor among those of acknowledged taste. Inlaid with California laurel, burl ash, French walnut, birds-eye maple, rosewood, ebony, mahogany and tulipwood. Construction patented September 7, 1875. Leveling Apparatus patented November 30, 1875.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

THE SETUP Sam’s client had lived in her downtown townhome home for less than a year when she decided to remodel the spacious second level. This open area consisted of three sections: a TV and fireplace zone, a sparsely furnished dining area, and a dominant central kitchen. The kitchen featured a long back wall with three segmented sections and a massive island housing the cooktop. She found the kitchen’s functionality lacking and its presence overwhelming – it dominated the entire floor, regardless of where you stood. Design objectives: - Reconfigure key kitchen elements (sink, cooktop, oven) while minimizing the kitchen’s visual impact - Optimize the kitchen’s back wall, eliminating existing dead space - Create a purposeful, well-defined dining area - Establish a distinct, comfortable living area - Reuse existing appliances and flooring - Maintain an overall modern design aesthetic THE REMODEL Design challenges to be solved: - Redesign the island to reduce its overwhelming presence - Create a comfortable, dedicated living room within the available space - Establish a distinct, inviting dining area within spatial constraints - Enhance kitchen functionality and style without dominating the entire floor THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: - Sam created raised end caps for the island. This separated the kitchen from adjacent living and dining areas while focusing the kitchen’s functionality. The new sink location offers ample workspace, allowing the cook to interact with guests seated at the island. The redesigned island also provides additional storage. - For the living area, Sam opted for a functional-yet-minimalist approach. Large-format tile creates a natural stone look for the fireplace and TV wall. The recessed TV and extended fireplace shelf maintain a sleek profile. - Artistic wallpaper adds depth and texture, while the intentional lack of extensive shelving keeps the space open and distinct. - Sam transformed the dining area’s blank wall into a feature, adding a unique dry bar with counter space, open shelves, cabinet storage and a beverage fridge. - - - Wallpaper behind and above the bar contributes to the area’s personality. A mirror adds depth while pendant lights add style and visual interest. Relocating the cooktop to the back wall facilitates hidden ventilation, reducing visual clutter. Sam balanced transitional and modern elements for a contemporary yet comfortable feel. The digital control panel on the convection cooktop maintains a sleek look, while the wall oven is now at an easy-to-use height. ----- Mirrored base cabinet fronts and a paneled fridge prevent cabinetry monotony. The redesign has delighted Sam’s client, achieving her main goal of creating a more inviting and visually appealing space. Each section now has its own visual personality and functionality while harmonizing within a monochromatic palette. The entire floor offers wow-factor pop upon first glance, with each area maintaining its distinct character while contributing to a cohesive, modern aesthetic.

Stark white surroundings with white lacquer cabinetry and solid white glass backsplash allow the Vetrazzo recycled glass surfaces to take center stage and establish a burst of color. Made from trim glass from a stained glass artist's studio these Millefiori sustainable surfaces establish the colors of the rest of the decor.

Trendy home design photo in Albuquerque

Inspired by the client’s frequent trips to Martha’s Vineyard, this renovation project’s primary goal was to create a landscape complimentary of this Colonial Revival style home, reminiscent of Edgartown, Massachusetts. The front landscape was specifically designed to offer expansive views of a layered horizontal foundation planting that nestled itself around the base of the home, allowing the home itself to be the star of the show. Flowering borders that rotate with the seasons create a strong foreground while a clipped yew hedge forms the barrier needed to separate the billowing panicle hydrangeas in the background. The axial design of the herringbone front walk, punctuated by a bluestone transitional space and formal cast limestone urn, create an axis by which all other landscape elements are symmetrically mirrored. Desiring a rear entertainment space separated from the adjacent 4 car garage and recreational lawn, a series of intimate gathering spaces were designed to include Edgartown inspired architectural features that would establish the character of the garden while setting the backdrop for a robust mix of perennials, grasses, hedges and annuals. Mimicking the pattern and detail previously established on the stone base of the home, individually hand chiseled pieces of Valders veneer were used to construct the garden walls. Reclaimed street pavers border a reconfigured bluestone patio and create a garden walk that separates the garden into 4 equal quadrants; each section of the walk connecting itself to a prominent feature of the garden. The central paver transition space is backed by a concentric hedge of low growing boxwoods, delineating annual and perennial. The relocation of an arbor, in conjunction with a new evergreen hedge, creates the desired partition between relaxed conversation and open lawn activities. A brick masonry water feature with reclaimed 1916 antique cast iron tub anchors the garden and terminates the perennial adorned paver walk opposite the home’s fireplace centered within the main seating area. Whether spending an evening with friends or a quiet moment alone, this quaint garden space offers our clients the perfect ambiance to pause and reflect on life’s special treasures.

When new homes are put up in an older neighborhood, thoughtful landscape design can provide a more established feel. Our clients wanted beautiful plantings and aesthetically pleasing access to the garage behind the home. D. A. Dunlevy installed a heated parking area that leads to the subtle driveway. A stunning entry gate is trellised for ivy to eventually cover it, which will create a secret garden feel to an otherwise everyday feature. A unique trellised hydrangea curtain lines the drive and will add lush and shady beauty as the plants mature. More custom touches include a traditionally-stacked stone wall, porthole trellis screens that reflect the home’s architecture, and a cedar trellis with espaliered pyracantha. Every detail of this project served to create a well-established, inviting, and old-world feel to a new build.

**Green Giant Privacy Installation – Estate-Scale Screening** This project focused on creating immediate, full-scale privacy for a large residential property through the installation of over 400 Green Giant arborvitae. The objective was to establish a defined boundary and visual enclosure without compromising the openness or natural character of the landscape. The layout was carefully planned to follow the length of the drive, framing the approach to the home while maintaining symmetry and consistency. Trees were spaced and aligned with precision to ensure long-term uniform growth, allowing the screen to mature into a dense, continuous barrier. Site preparation played a critical role in the success of the installation. The planting areas were properly graded and amended to support healthy root development, with irrigation integrated to promote establishment and sustained growth. This ensures the trees not only thrive but maintain their structure and density over time. Green Giant arborvitae were selected for their reliability, fast growth rate, and ability to provide year-round coverage. Their upright form allows for effective screening without overwhelming the space, making them ideal for large properties requiring both privacy and scale.

The proposal analyzes the site as a series of existing flows or “routes” across the landscape. The negotiation of both constructed and natural systems establishes the logic of the site plan and the orientation and organization of the new home. Conceptually, the project becomes a highly choreographed knot at the center of these routes, drawing strands in, engaging them with others, and propelling them back out again. The project’s intent is to capture and harness the physical and ephemeral sense of these latent natural movements as a way to promote in the architecture the wanderlust the surrounding landscape inspires. At heart, the client’s initial family agenda--a home as antidote to the city and basecamp for exploration--establishes the ethos and design objectives of the work. Photography - Bruce Damonte

Overhead of front garden, newly established floral cutting bed, existing evergreens, and new porch greenroof.
Inspiration for a transitional landscaping in Boston.

White on White Kitchen 6008.2 Small Kitchens in traditional older homes present an opportunity for the designer and cabinet maker. Function, space and ease in accommodating a guest or two represent a few of the necessary considerations. Careful planning while creating custom features will ensure a useful kitchen in harmony with contemporary living. Establishing upper cabinets at the ceiling height extends storage while glass doors at the bar area continues to push open the kitchen. By placing the bar surface at the same height as the counter we’ve established an unbroken line to further increase the sense of space. Designing valence and header panels over the window in the same style as the kitchen's doors provides continuity to this custom kitchen and to the history of the home. The home was built in the 1920's in an urban Virginia environment. As was so often the case in the appointments of the home the kitchen was given little space and short attention to design. Opening the kitchen to a hall space with careful attention to simple but functional design enabled a successful arrangement serving the modern lifestyle.