John Evans
Huge elegant u-shaped dark wood floor kitchen photo in Columbus with a farmhouse sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, white backsplash, stone tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

Custom Surface Solutions (www.css-tile.com) - Owner Craig Thompson (512) 430-1215. This project shows a master bathroom remodel with porcelain 12 x 24 white and gray veined marble on walls and floors, custom multi-shelf shower niche with marble shelves. and gray hexagon penny tile shower floor.

Please see this Award Winning project in the October 2014 issue of New York Cottages & Gardens Magazine: NYC&G http://www.cottages-gardens.com/New-York-Cottages-Gardens/October-2014/NYCG-Innovation-in-Design-Winners-Kitchen-Design/ It was also featured in a Houzz Tour: Houzz Tour: Loving the Old and New in an 1880s Brooklyn Row House http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29691278/list/houzz-tour-loving-the-old-and-new-in-an-1880s-brooklyn-row-house Photo Credit: Hulya Kolabas

Inspiration for a transitional kitchen remodel in San Diego

Photo by Leonid Furmansky
Home design - modern home design idea in Austin

Deckscapes designed and built this porch in the Davidson, NC area. We worked closely with the homeowner to understand what they were looking for in an outdoor room and how we could work together to accomplish their vision. The floor of the porch is 5" Tongue and Groove treated pine decking. It was stained with a Sherwin Williams oil based stain to match their interior hardwood flooring. The porch walls are constructed with 6"x6" Cox laminated columns and a 2x6 mid rail along with black, round aluminum ballusters. EZE Breeze vertical 4 Track porch windows in white frames and charcoal fiberglass screens were added to the exterior along with glass window panes in all the gable areas. The porch roof is a shed roof design with an open gable in the center. This makes trimming the ceiling slightly more difficult but really adds to the look and openness of the room's final feel (plus we love the way it looks when completed). Recessed lighting (6 cans) and 2 Hunter ceiling fans were added to the ceiling. A dimmer switch was added to the lights to really give the room some ambiance at night. The ceiling was finished in a Sherwin Williams semi transparent stain and the walls were painted white to match the house exterior trim. To complete the final product we added a 1x4 English lattice around the perimeter and painted it white to match the porch. We added some speakers inside the porch and a 36" Larson Savannah storm door from the stairs down to the paver patio. After the room was tastefully decorated by our clients I know that they will really Enjoy Being Outside.

Photography by William Quarles. Designed by Shannon Bogen. Built by Robert Paige Cabinetry. Contractor Tom Martin.
Inspiration for a mid-sized laundry room remodel in Charleston with a side-by-side washer/dryer

The owners of this colonial-style house wanted to renovate their home to increase space and improve flow. We built a two-story addition that included a dining room and bar on the first floor (off of the family room) and a new master bathroom (creating a master suite). RUDLOFF Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016 and 2017. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017 and 2018, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early on in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept, envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission; CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: JMB Photoworks

Entering the back yard is like entering an English garden. To ensure a seamless look between the original new parts of the house, we built the covered patio using the same German schist stone and timber framed stucco. Further, the stone’s pointing matches the original historic stone, and we used a gray grout for a weathered, aged look. The space is finished off with spiraled lattice iron works and all slate roof. At the end of the roof is an open truss timber frame in a cathedral design. Copper flashing at the joints protects the wood from water sitting in the spaces and eventually rotting the joints. The patio itself features a flagstone floor, built in gas grill, and the other side of the Rumford fireplace found in the family room. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Deckscapes designed and built this porch in the Davidson, NC area. We worked closely with the homeowner to understand what they were looking for in an outdoor room and how we could work together to accomplish their vision. The floor of the porch is 5" Tongue and Groove treated pine decking. It was stained with a Sherwin Williams oil based stain to match their interior hardwood flooring. The porch walls are constructed with 6"x6" Cox laminated columns and a 2x6 mid rail along with black, round aluminum ballusters. EZE Breeze vertical 4 Track porch windows in white frames and charcoal fiberglass screens were added to the exterior along with glass window panes in all the gable areas. The porch roof is a shed roof design with an open gable in the center. This makes trimming the ceiling slightly more difficult but really adds to the look and openness of the room's final feel (plus we love the way it looks when completed). Recessed lighting (6 cans) and 2 Hunter ceiling fans were added to the ceiling. A dimmer switch was added to the lights to really give the room some ambiance at night. The ceiling was finished in a Sherwin Williams semi transparent stain and the walls were painted white to match the house exterior trim. To complete the final product we added a 1x4 English lattice around the perimeter and painted it white to match the porch. We added some speakers inside the porch and a 36" Larson Savannah storm door from the stairs down to the paver patio. After the room was tastefully decorated by our clients I know that they will really Enjoy Being Outside.

Welcome to Dream Coast Builders, your premier choice for creating stunning balcony spaces in Clearwater, FL, and Tampa. Whether you envision a modern balcony with sleek lines, a beach house balcony to capture those breathtaking views or a spacious open-concept design, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. Our remodeling services cater to every aspect of balcony enhancement, from custom homes to exterior renovations and home additions. Explore our balcony design ideas to find inspiration for transforming your outdoor space into a luxurious retreat. Choose from various balcony flooring options, including durable materials for coastal climates. Elevate your balcony's aesthetic appeal and safety with our expertly crafted railing designs. From contemporary styles to timeless classics, we offer many options to suit your preferences. Whether you're seeking to maximize seating capacity, enhance lighting ambiance, or create a lush green oasis with balcony plants, our team will work closely with you to realize your vision. At Dream Coast Builders, we understand the importance of creating inviting outdoor living spaces that seamlessly blend style and functionality. Trust us to transform your balcony into a sanctuary where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. Contact us today to begin your balcony remodeling journey in Clearwater, FL, and beyond. Contact Us Today to Embark on the Journey of Transforming Your Space Into a True Masterpiece. https://dreamcoastbuilders.com

The more dramatic the Fireplace is the more dramatic the outdoor living space becomes. It is no doubt that the outdoor fireplace is the link between culinary, comfort and conversation. Much more to it than just a crackling fire. There is a difference in Outdoor living and living outdoors fabulously exclaimed outdoor designer Michael Gotowala as he envisioned this outstanding two level outdoor kitchen, outdoor living space to be just the right recipe to order that much more than just grilling.Living beyond the walls of your home turned out to be quite fabulous for this Avon, Connecticut family thanks to the artistic envision of Michael Gotowala and his Preferred Properties crew. Outdoor Living designer and master builder of outdoor kitchens Michael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by PREFERRED PROPERTIES reveals to us the insight of multi level outdoor living beyond the walls of your home outdoors. The secret to success for this trendy outdoor living lifestyle is to understand the family members lifestyle indoors and portray that familiar lifestyle outdoors. This equates to endless hours of quality time spent outdoors. Gotowala's artistic display of outdoor living fabulously can be for entertaining large catered gatherings or intimate outdoor kitchens for fun with family and friends. The Difference in Outdoor Living and Living outdoors fabulously begins with a fabulous design and ends with meticulous workmanship. For more outdoor kitchen inspiration see our website where Great Outdoor kitchen ideas begin. THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE at www.OUTDOORKITCHENDESIGNER.com

Pull out knife block makes use of a small space while keep essential cooking tools close at hand. ~ Brian DalBalcon Photography
Kitchen - mid-sized transitional kitchen idea in Seattle

Maintaining a pest-free home requires attention throughout the year. Seasonal changes affect pest behavior, and understanding these patterns can save homeowners from costly damage and health hazards. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for spring pest prevention tips, ensuring your property stays protected through every season. From spotting early signs to implementing proactive measures, these steps empower homeowners to take control before infestations occur. Understanding Seasonal Pest Patterns Pests adapt to changing weather, and knowing their patterns helps prevent infestations effectively. Spring: Awakening Pests Spring signals the end of winter dormancy for many pests. Rodents, ants, and termites start seeking food and warmth. Effective spring pest prevention tips include: ● Cleaning gutters and removing debris ● Sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls ● Inspecting wood piles and compost areas ● Monitoring early signs of termite activity Pro Tip: Conduct a termite inspection or a professional evaluation to catch infestations early before they spread. Summer: Peak Pest Season Warm temperatures accelerate pest breeding cycles. For a comprehensive summer pest prevention guide: ● Maintain lawns and trim vegetation away from homes ● Check window and door screens for tears ● Store food in sealed containers ● Inspect water sources that attract mosquitoes Do You Know? Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a teaspoon of water. Eliminating stagnant water is crucial to reducing their population. Fall: Preparing for Winter As temperatures drop, pests search for warm indoor spaces. Key actions include: ● Inspecting for winter rodent entry points ● Sealing attic vents, crawl spaces, and foundation gaps ● Cleaning storage areas to minimize hiding spots ● Checking chimney and fireplace openings Quick Fact: Rodents can enter homes through openings as small as ¼ inch. Seasonal Pest Checklist for Homeowners Creating a structured seasonal pest checklist simplifies preventive measures and ensures nothing is overlooked. Season Key Actions Spring Inspect for termites, seal exterior gaps, clean gutters, and check compost Summer Repair screens, trim vegetation, remove standing water, and secure food Fall Seal entry points, inspect attic/crawlspace, clear debris, and prepare storage Winter Monitor indoor activity, keep firewood away from walls, and maintain traps Inspection & Maintenance Tips ● Schedule annual pest inspections by professional Virginia pest control consultation to detect hidden problems ● Keep a log of pest sightings and treatment dates ● Regularly replace weather stripping and caulk cracks Note: Even small preventive steps, when consistently applied, drastically reduce infestations. Common Pests and Their Seasonal Behaviors Understanding how different pests behave each season helps homeowners take timely action to protect their property. ● Ants and Termites: Ants emerge in spring seeking food, while termites become active and can damage wood unnoticed. Early detection is critical. ● Rodents and Mice: Fall and winter increase rodent intrusions. Block all entry points and keep food sealed. ● Mosquitoes and Flies: Summer creates the ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water and use physical barriers like nets. ● Spiders and Other Insects: Seasonal shifts cause spiders to move indoors. Regular vacuuming and decluttering reduce hiding spots. Eco-Friendly Prevention Methods ● Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth ● Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to reduce pest populations ● Plant pest-deterring plants near home boundaries, like marigolds or lavender Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Adopt an IPM approach by combining physical barriers, monitoring, and environmentally safe treatments. This minimizes chemical use while maintaining a pest-free home. Quote: “Prevention is the most effective form of pest control.” – National Pest Management Association Seasonal Pest Prevention Tools ● Snap traps and humane rodent traps ● Sticky traps for insects ● Outdoor perimeter sprays (eco-friendly) ● Moisture meters to detect early termite or mold problems Pro Tip: Keep tools organized and accessible to act quickly when pest activity is noticed. Planning: Annual Pest Calendar Month Recommended Action March-April Spring pest prevention tips: Inspect, seal, clean gutters June-July Summer pest prevention guide: Screens, standing water, food storage September Seasonal pest checklist: Seal entries, declutter, prep storage November Winter rodent entry points: Monitor indoors, maintain traps Key Takeaways ● Seasonal awareness prevents infestations and property damage ● Consistent inspections and maintenance are essential ● Simple eco-friendly measures can significantly reduce pests ● Use a structured checklist and calendar for effective prevention Conclusion Homeowners who stay proactive and follow spring pest prevention tips, along with year-round monitoring, ensure their properties remain safe and comfortable. Using a summer pest prevention guide, checking winter rodent entry points, and maintaining a seasonal pest checklist ensure your home remains safe and comfortable. Remember to combine inspections, physical barriers, and environmentally friendly methods for the best results. FAQs Q1: How often should I perform a termite inspection? A1: Conduct inspections annually, especially in spring, to detect early signs of termite activity and prevent extensive damage. Q2: Can pests enter my home during winter? A2: Yes, rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter indoors. Sealing entry points and monitoring for activity is crucial. Q3: What is the most effective eco-friendly method for pest prevention? A3: Using natural repellents, encouraging beneficial insects, and eliminating water sources effectively reduces pest populations without chemicals. Ensure your home is ready for every season. Schedule a professional Virginia pest control consultation or a termite inspection in Suffolk, VA, today and stay ahead of potential infestations.

We have an existing 14'x20' deck that we'd like replaced with an expanded composite deck (about 14 x 26') with a 6' open deck and the remaining part a sunroom/enclosed porch with Eze-Breeze. Our schedule is flexible, but we want quality, responsive folks to do the job. And we want low maintenance, so Trex Transcend+ or TimberTek would work. As part of the job, we would want the contractor to replace the siding on the house that would be covered by new sunroom/enclosed deck (we understand the covers may not be a perfect match). This would include removing an intercom system and old lighting system. We would want the contractor to be one-stop shopping for us, not require us to find an electrician or pull permits. The sunroom/porch would need one fan and two or four skylights. Gable roof is preferred. The sunroom should have two doors -- one on the left side to the open deck portion (for grilling) and one to a 4-6' (approx) landing that transitions to a stairs. The landing and stairs would be included and be from the same composite material. The deck (on which sits the sunroom/closed porch) would need to be about 3' off the ground and should be close in elevation to the base of the door from the house -- i.e. walk out the house and into the sunroom with little or no bump.

When we work on a private residence, we take every care to understand and respect that this is not just a property, structure or set of blueprints. This is your home. We listen first, working with your vision and sense of style, but combining your ideas with our extensive knowledge of finishes, materials and how to consider every last detail in order to create an overall look and feel that will really "wow."

Erin Lau
Design ideas for a traditional landscaping in Seattle.

Matthew Niemann Photography
Transitional kitchen photo in Austin

L Eyck & M Hendry
Inspiration for a mid-sized industrial master white tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile freestanding bathtub remodel in Melbourne with a drop-in sink, white cabinets, granite countertops and beige walls