The driveway installation started with the excavation of existing asphalt and sub base. New concrete base with fiber mesh was installed with Amagansett granite pavers is laid over a thin layer of graded sand. Stone was selected from the Gappsi natural stone collection. Jumbo Belgian block was installed for the street curb and driveway entrance. The sealing process begins with pressure washing the entire patio, removing all dirt/debris from the stone surface and in between the joints. Next, Nexgel Techniseal synthetic sand is applied in between the pavers joints and vibrated with a mechanical plate compactor. The plate compactor has rubber rollers to prevent the stones from cracking or scratching. This vibrating process allows the sand to fall in between the joints and density. Then, we clean the pavers with brooms and landscape blowers, to clean the excess sand from the pavers surface and to evenly spread the sand in between the pavers joints. The next step is to wash the pavers by misting water to penetrate the synthetic sand into the paver joints all the way down below the pavers. The sand and water activate a chemical reaction of the pollen that’s in the sand to cause the sand to harden. Finally, the application of the sealer, two parts components urethane dealer, specially formulated for Gappsi, is applied to the pavers surface and the sand joints to prevent stones from staining, extend their life cycle and further enhance their texture, color, and surface. From design concept to finish execution Gappsi provides natural stone supply/installation, Cleaning and sealing services. For more information about design and installation in Dix Hills NY, visit www.gappsi.com or call us at 631-543-1177 for a free estimate. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFjStxnDXEY&t=1s

Modern backyard retreat with minimalist elements. A concrete patio with square modular pavers leads up to a raised Ipe wood deck. The spa is raised with a concrete coping seat bench and an infinity edge glass spillway. The pool has a concrete coping and white plaster. The main concrete area is accented by charcoal beach pebble. The retaining wall is constructed of Angelus Glacier White precision block with a sandblasted finish. The tight geometry is balanced by vibrant succulents on the adjacent slope. The BBQ station is faced with smooth white plaster and a gray colored Dekton countertop. The property is surrounded by lush green bamboo and other greenery. Shout out to budgetplants.com for providing all the succulents, trees, and shrubs.

Our clients wanted a modern mountain getaway that would combine their gorgeous mountain surroundings with contemporary finishes. To highlight the stunning cathedral ceilings, we decided to take the natural stone on the fireplace from floor to ceiling. The dark wood mantle adds a break for the eye, and ties in the views of surrounding trees. Our clients wanted a complete facelift for their kitchen, and this started with removing the excess of dark wood on the ceiling, walls, and cabinets. Opening a larger picture window helps in bringing the outdoors in, and contrasting white and black cabinets create a fresh and modern feel. --- Project designed by Miami interior designer Margarita Bravo. She serves Miami as well as surrounding areas such as Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, and Hallandale Beach. For more about MARGARITA BRAVO, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/portfolio/colorado-nature-inspired-getaway/

SLDarch: The rugged Hajar Mountains ring the city while this rocky hillside setting offers great positioning to take in distant city lights set against the shimmering Gulf of Oman. With careful positioning, we were able to preserving the existing mature trees and nestle this home against the rugged desert mountains. Major views orient towards the north guarding against the relentless summer sun while providing massive vista views and open floor plan. Here we have a delightful interplay of open rooms and multi-levels, connected by gentle steps, ramps, stairs and elevator. Main living room has full ceiling skylight with deep geometric webs and reflective glass, allowing spangled sunlight throughout the interior spaces but blocking the excessive solar gain. Ample allocation for art display has been integrated throughout this home as well as a 1500 sf dedicated art gallery and two home office spaces as well as a built-in wood shop. A spiral stair leads to the rooftop aerie for evening star gazing, relaxing and cocktails.

Christopher Schuch
Study room - eclectic freestanding desk study room idea in Boston

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com Project Entry: Pembrooke Estate Rain Garden 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Sustainable Landscape &60,000-$120,000 Award Level: Silver Project Description: The client contracted our company to solve multiple existing drainage problems. In a heavy rain event the existing French drain system would overflow, causing water to pool in the driveway. After investigating the system we found that the capacity of the French drain was undersized for the amount of storm water from the large rain events received in recent years. As a result of our findings and at the request of the homeowner, we designed a storm water management system to capture all storm water from the structures on the property and regenerate the underground aquifers for the volume of a 5.8” rainstorm. In addition to the new drain system, the homeowners wanted a rain garden to provide a backdrop for an existing formal garden, provide a habitat for wildlife, and provide screening from an adjacent neighbor. Throughout the design process many challenges were presented, including an existing gas line, which ran directly through the area that best suited the bioswale. The existence of the gas line caused us to alter the shape and depth of the bioswale in some areas. We also inspected the existing downspouts to make sure there were no obstructions that would impede the system’s efficiency, and then conducted a test pit dig to make sure we had sufficient percolation rates for disposal of storm water. To effectively capture the storm water runoff, the existing downspouts were piped from the main house and the large detached garage to a large catch basin located at the low point in the driveway. The driveway catch basin contains two outlet pipes at different elevations within the basin allowing water from smaller rain events to enter the bioswale and rain garden area to percolate into the soil before excess water overflows into a sediment trap which filters out any debris and is then piped to an underground StormTech® pit to slowly percolate into the ground. The other outlet pipe in the driveway catch basin is used for larger storm water events, taking the water directly to the StormTech® pit. Accepting and slowing the velocity of the storm water, mitigation of erosion, and filtering out pollutants contained in the “first flush” of rainfall are the primary functions of the bioswale and rain garden. Planting these areas with mostly native plant species helps carry out these functions while attracting and providing shelter for wildlife. The ‘Niobe’ weeping willow is the centerpiece of the rain garden, connecting with the axis of the existing formal garden. To screen the neighboring property we chose Chamaecyparis nootkatensis ‘Pendula’ for its graceful evergreen habit and tolerance of wet sites. ‘Ivory Halo’ dogwood and Panicum ‘Cloud Nine’ were used for screening as well as winter interest. To provide deciduous structure to the garden Taxodium distichum and Magnolia virginiana were used in conjunction with witch hazel. Mostly native wetland perennials were used due to their tolerance of wet conditions and occasional drought. The area above the StormTech® pit provides space for the client’s family to relax. The rain garden and bioswale provide screening, storm water management, a habitat for wildlife, and plants that enhance the adjacent formal garden. Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

Decorative rock can be a beautiful and practical choice for landscaping, particularly when it comes to storm management. In addition to adding visual interest and texture to your landscape, decorative rock can help to control erosion and improve drainage. By using landscape stone to redirect water flow and manage excess runoff, you can protect your property from damage and maintain the integrity of your landscape. Decorative rock is also a low maintenance choice that requires minimal upkeep, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for storm management.

Sundance Homes invites you to tour this 2,600-square-foot walkout ranch. As you enter the home take note of the frosted glass track doors, which offer privacy and seclusion to a home office. The kitchen, dining and great room offer an open concept, while still maintaining their own distinct and defining characteristics. From the hardwood floors carried throughout the house, to the GE Monogram stainless steel appliances and quartz countertop island, this home provides the most usable space for family as well as entertaining. A spacious covered deck extends along the entire back of the house with access to the owner’s retreat. This is the place to relax at the end of the day with a stone fireplace, soaker tub, walk-in shower with digital control rain heads, an abundance of closet space and a bonus of its own washer and dryer. The second and third bedrooms include a Jack & Jill bath with individual vanities. Just steps away are the laundry room and mud room, featuring built-in lockers to give little ones a unique space to store their stuff. This home is equipped with energy-efficient, environmentally friendly geothermal HVAC system and radiant floor heating in the 4-car garages. Additionally, the garage floor drains and outside gutters are tied into an underground gutter system, effectively pulling excess water away from the foundation. This home also has a Control 4 Home Operating System with video and audio, providing the homeowner with a true sense of security – while at home and away.

The clients summer vacation home had an extra large walk-in closet in the primary bedroom. Since the room did not have an attached bathroom, and an oversized closet wasn't necessary with it being a seasonal home and having an excess of storage elsewhere- we decided to use the space to create a Primary Suite. The client picked a wonderful blue palette that compliments the views of the lake outside so perfectly. We added a custom double vanity with plenty of storage, a large, glass walk-in shower and lots of pretty details she picked out in all the tile work.

An incredible transformation renovation from a closed in kitchen to an open space ocean view entertaining area. This renovation took a dated kitchen that housed excess walls, an unused eating nook, small island, and old fashioned lighting to a midcentury modern masterpiece flaunting an increased counterspace, eating bar, serving counter, additional cabinet space, a renovated staircase and an updated dining area. Now when you walk into this beautiful home you can see straight through to the stunning ocean view. - with Michael at Michael Pepler Design

Our clients wanted a modern mountain getaway that would combine their gorgeous mountain surroundings with contemporary finishes. To highlight the stunning cathedral ceilings, we decided to take the natural stone on the fireplace from floor to ceiling. The dark wood mantle adds a break for the eye, and ties in the views of surrounding trees. Our clients wanted a complete facelift for their kitchen, and this started with removing the excess of dark wood on the ceiling, walls, and cabinets. Opening a larger picture window helps in bringing the outdoors in, and contrasting white and black cabinets create a fresh and modern feel. --- Project designed by Montecito interior designer Margarita Bravo. She serves Montecito as well as surrounding areas such as Hope Ranch, Summerland, Santa Barbara, Isla Vista, Mission Canyon, Carpinteria, Goleta, Ojai, Los Olivos, and Solvang. For more about MARGARITA BRAVO, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/portfolio/colorado-nature-inspired-getaway/

Our clients wanted a modern mountain getaway that would combine their gorgeous mountain surroundings with contemporary finishes. To highlight the stunning cathedral ceilings, we decided to take the natural stone on the fireplace from floor to ceiling. The dark wood mantle adds a break for the eye, and ties in the views of surrounding trees. Our clients wanted a complete facelift for their kitchen, and this started with removing the excess of dark wood on the ceiling, walls, and cabinets. Opening a larger picture window helps in bringing the outdoors in, and contrasting white and black cabinets create a fresh and modern feel. --- Project designed by Montecito interior designer Margarita Bravo. She serves Montecito as well as surrounding areas such as Hope Ranch, Summerland, Santa Barbara, Isla Vista, Mission Canyon, Carpinteria, Goleta, Ojai, Los Olivos, and Solvang. For more about MARGARITA BRAVO, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/portfolio/colorado-nature-inspired-getaway/

This N.E. Portland home had an old lawn edge to edge. We designed this Rain Garden with simple inexpensive features and it was listed a few months later. A selling point included the information that it had become a City of Portland Certified Rain Garden, and was registered to receive $11.00 per month rebates on its storm water (water) bill for the life of the maintained rain garden. It sold quickly for in excess of the listed price. This owner has us doing a similar landscape makeover design to the new home they have purchased in Vancouver, Washington.

Desert plants add a wide array of colors and textures to the landscape without creating a need for excessive watering.
Large tuscan backyard concrete paver and custom-shaped natural hot tub photo in Phoenix

Warm wood and cold glass don't always work well together, but here they do. This white oak staircase pairs naturally grained treads with a sleek glass balustrade anchored by bold black metal posts, a combination that feels considered rather than contrived. The wrap-around starting steps ease the entry, softening what could have been a hard geometric statement into something more welcoming. Overhead, a statement lighting installation pulls the eye upward, casting a warm glow that works with the oak rather than against it. Clean lines throughout, nothing excessive. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

The #LakesideLeisure Project was a comprehensive redesign of a lakefront property that transformed various challenges into stunning solutions. Initially, the property featured a small, high-maintenance cedar deck with minimal lake views, poorly placed stairs, limited flat yard space due to extensive tiered landscaping and excessive plantings, obstructed lake views, and privacy concerns from a neighboring home. The client’s vision was clear: they wanted a large, flat yard for family activities and hosting, enhanced outdoor living spaces for dining and lounging, increased privacy from neighbors, more shaded hangout areas, improved “curb appeal” from the lake, and reduced maintenance.

This vacation home in Falmouth, MA needed lots of TLC inside and out when the family bought it. One of the first projects they completed was replacing the roof. Being by the ocean, it was important that this roof could withstand snow, driving rain, temperature fluctuations and wind gusts up to 130mph – so they chose a GAF Timberline HD roofing system. We completely removed the old roof and started fresh by inspecting deck boards for any rot or insect damage. The boards are then re-nailed before applying underlayment to the whole roof deck. GAF Cobra Ridge Vent, ice and water shield, and drip edge – our roofing systems prevent ice dams and water intrusion from driving rain. A properly vented roof allows air to circulate in the attic to maintain both a constant temperature and prevents excessive moisture buildup.

These wonderful clients returned to us for their newest home remodel adventure. Their newly purchased custom built 1970s modern ranch sits in one of the loveliest neighborhoods south of the city but the current conditions of the home were out-dated and not so lovely. Upon entering the front door through the court you were greeted abruptly by a very boring staircase and an excessive number of doors. Just to the left of the double door entry was a large slider and on your right once inside the home was a soldier line up of doors. This made for an uneasy and uninviting entry that guests would quickly forget and our clients would often avoid. We also had our hands full in the kitchen. The existing space included many elements that felt out of place in a modern ranch including a rustic mountain scene backsplash, cherry cabinets with raised panel and detailed profile, and an island so massive you couldn’t pass a drink across the stone. Our design sought to address the functional pain points of the home and transform the overall aesthetic into something that felt like home for our clients. For the entry, we re-worked the front door configuration by switching from the double door to a large single door with side lights. The sliding door next to the main entry door was replaced with a large window to eliminate entry door confusion. In our re-work of the entry staircase, guesta are now greeted into the foyer which features the Coral Pendant by David Trubridge. Guests are drawn into the home by stunning views of the front range via the large floor-to-ceiling glass wall in the living room. To the left, the staircases leading down to the basement and up to the master bedroom received a massive aesthetic upgrade. The rebuilt 2nd-floor staircase has a center spine with wood rise and run appearing to float upwards towards the master suite. A slatted wall of wood separates the two staircases which brings more light into the basement stairwell. Black metal railings add a stunning contrast to the light wood. Other fabulous upgrades to this home included new wide plank flooring throughout the home, which offers both modernity and warmth. The once too-large kitchen island was downsized to create a functional focal point that is still accessible and intimate. The old dark and heavy kitchen cabinetry was replaced with sleek white cabinets, brightening up the space and elevating the aesthetic of the entire room. The kitchen countertops are marble look quartz with dramatic veining that offers an artistic feature behind the range and across all horizontal surfaces in the kitchen. As a final touch, cascading island pendants were installed which emphasize the gorgeous ceiling vault and provide warm feature lighting over the central point of the kitchen. This transformation reintroduces light and simplicity to this gorgeous home, and we are so happy that our clients can reap the benefits of this elegant and functional design for years to come.

In the living room in combination with the accent orange color of furnishings, the color takes on a sophisticated aura as it makes for a befitting partner for the warmth of wood. This home is not a design of the excess. The design fabric is extremely simple and minimal. But we'd like to clarify one thing here. Simple, in no way means or translates into being uninteresting or less intriguing. It's easy to create a layered space when take the maximalist route. But to ensure that a minimalist, almost bare is space is equally layered and intriguing is the real challenge .