LEED Certification Level: Platinum. Builder: R & S Engineering & Construction. The Cavanaugh Residence is a contemporary split level with a split personality. Totally designed from the ground up to minimize impact and maximize energy and water efficiency, its beautiful facade belies its hard-working, high-producing systems, earning it a LEED Platinum score of 116.5, and a HERS rating of minus 22. The 2774 square foot home produces over 100 per cent of its power with a 10.8 kw pv system, and captures 100 per cent of its freshwater needs from the curved metal roofs through an engineered collection and purification system, stored in an integrated concrete cistern. Constructed of locally made SIP panels on an infill waterfront lot, the home is oriented to maximize the production of the pv panels. Six inch SIP panels work together with a highly reflective, highly emmisive cool standing seam roof, icynene insulation in ceiling and floors, and carefully placed high efficiency windows and doors to create a tightly sealed environment. The 17-seer Trane heat pump variable speed compressors and TAM 7 air handlers, along with a whole house dehumidifier and fresh air intake provide a comfortable, clean indoor environment while using little energy. In the shoulder seasons, natural ventilation cools the home with fresh breezes drawn from lower windows in each room flowing through the curved ceilings to clerestory windows at the top of the house. Natural daylighting, with windows placed in corners and high clerestories, bounce the abundant natural light so that the owners use the interior LED lighting primarily at night. Windows were sited to frame views of the neighboring park and water, and capture the light, but represent a very low percentage of glazing to wall to conserve energy. Primarily native, xeriscaped turfless landscaping sips reclaimed water from its drip and bubbler irrigiation system, and requires little trimming or chemicals. Established trees, protected during construction, shade the home, FSC certified decks, and yard, providing a cool place to enjoy the outdoors at any time of the day, even in Florida's summer heat. Rainwater is diverted from the bay through the engineered collection and filtration system to an integrated concrete cistern hidden beneath the decks. Abundant Florida rainwater supplies 100 per cent of the home's needs, including drinking, bathing, and cleaning. Naturally soft, the highly filtered and UV purified water requires no chemical treatment or water softener. Coupled with minimal hardscape and permeable drive and walkways, almost all ground water remains on the lot, and out of storm sewers and bay runoffs. Designed as a forever home for this active retired couple, an open floor plan provides diagonal interior views along with great circulation space. Wide hallways and doors, curbless showers, an elevator, and extra blocking in the walls for grab rails insures the couple of being able to use their home even if physical disabilities arise. The home's footprint is minimized by building over the conditioned crawlspace and over-sized garage, and the finished floor height, at least two feet above flood code requirements, significantly reduces insurance costs while maximizing storage space for camping and water sports equipment. Materials, fixtures and appliances were carefully selected for energy and water efficiency, local production where possible, recycled content/recyclability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The owners were very involved in vetting and materials selections, and assisted in just-in-time purchasing to minimize waste. Scrap materials were sorted daily for re-use elsewhere in the project (blocking, concrete forms, drywall scraps as acoustical insulation in interior walls, etc.), resulting in a tiny waste pile at the end of a dumpster-free project. Concrete waste was hauled to a local recycler to become road base, and extra useable materials were returned to the vendor or donated to Habitat Restore. Cost-effective choices, and careful planning, saved significant dollars in construction cost as well as landfill space. One of the biggest challenges was finding qualified subcontractors who would work within the guidelines. With the help of our LEED consultant and meetings and explanations, most subcontractors not only bought into the ideas readily, but offered up new ideas. Highly skilled and professional, the team of subs, LEED consultant, and contractor proved that LEED construction is excellent construction. The team, the owners, and I also found that LEED construction makes great economic sense. Most materials (other than increased insulation and photovoltaic panels) cost no more, and sometimes less, than those employed in construction of a lesser standard. The owners have been living in the home for a year now, and are thrilled with the results. No power bill. No water bill. Extremely low insurance bill. Minimal ground maintenance. No fabric softener. Reduced use of soap, detergents, and shampoos and cleaning supplies. Less time cleaning with spot-free rainwater. Careful planning and materials selection brought the project in under budget, and the home operates at an extremely low cost, both to the homeowners, and the environment. Who wouldn't be thrilled?

Design by: Bill Tweten, CKD, CBD This craftsman style kitchen has been accomplished with Crystal ¼ sawn white oak cabinets finished in a natural flat sheen. The use of the inset frame design is complimented by the Regent door style and accented with weathered nickel door pulls and drawer cup pulls. A sink bump out helped to expand the space in the kitchen and an addition of china cabinets, featuring the same Regent inset style cabinetry, were added to create a beautiful display and add extra storage between the kitchen and the dining. Mixing silestone and laminate countertops adds to the overall charm of this newly designed kitchen and provides plenty of countertop space.

Design by: Bill Tweten, CKD, CBD Photo by: Robb Siverson www.robbsiverson.com This master suite bath features Crystals framed cabinets finished in an Antique white and lightly distressed. A beautiful Canelle granite is the perfect match for these cabinets and accented with rich oil rubbed bronze hardware.

Bill Cherne, Design Inside
Small transitional gender-neutral nursery photo in Chicago with gray walls

Great Open Kitchem with a built in desk and cabinets to the ceiling for extra storage and dimension. The full linear mosaic backsplash gives this craftsman style home a touch of modern appeal. Bill Johnson

In this bathroom renovation installed were: Medallion Cabinetry in the Silverline door style: Caldwell. Painted Maple Divinity Classic with Burnt Sienna Highlights. 18” deep vanity sink with 2 drawers with matching recessed medicine cabinet and 2 doors with mirror inserts. The vanity countertop is Marron Desert granite with eased edge and white oval undermount sink. A Kichler 3-light oil rubbed bronze. Moen oil rubbed bronze high arc wide spread faucet, shower head with separate hand held shower on slide bar with matching towel bars, grab bar, robe hook and toilet paper holder. A Vikrell 70 gallon Kohler tub and Gerber toilet. The shower is 10x14” ceramic wall tile with glass stone mix border. On the floor 7”x20” wood plank ceramic tile.

In the old kitchen the two windows were different sizes. This was corrected in the new design, allowing for a more balanced look. Photo by Bill Cartlege

Design by: Bill Tweten, CKD, CBD Photo by: Robb Siverson www.robbsiverson.com A walk in pantry is great for additional food storage for any kitchen. This custom designed pantry features Crystal Cabinets antique white paint with brown glazing and extra distressing to give the cabinets a weathered look. Bead board was used in place of a traditional styled backsplash and standard drawers were replaced with wicker basket pull outs, and glass accent doors add a little more interest to the cabinets. Saba granite was used to add a splash of color along with oil rubbed bronze hardware to offset the light cabinets. All together this pantry provides ample storage and has an extraordinary look of its own.

LEED Certification Level: Platinum. Builder: R & S Engineering & Construction. The Cavanaugh Residence is a contemporary split level with a split personality. Totally designed from the ground up to minimize impact and maximize energy and water efficiency, its beautiful facade belies its hard-working, high-producing systems, earning it a LEED Platinum score of 116.5, and a HERS rating of minus 22. The 2774 square foot home produces over 100 per cent of its power with a 10.8 kw pv system, and captures 100 per cent of its freshwater needs from the curved metal roofs through an engineered collection and purification system, stored in an integrated concrete cistern. Constructed of locally made SIP panels on an infill waterfront lot, the home is oriented to maximize the production of the pv panels. Six inch SIP panels work together with a highly reflective, highly emmisive cool standing seam roof, icynene insulation in ceiling and floors, and carefully placed high efficiency windows and doors to create a tightly sealed environment. The 17-seer Trane heat pump variable speed compressors and TAM 7 air handlers, along with a whole house dehumidifier and fresh air intake provide a comfortable, clean indoor environment while using little energy. In the shoulder seasons, natural ventilation cools the home with fresh breezes drawn from lower windows in each room flowing through the curved ceilings to clerestory windows at the top of the house. Natural daylighting, with windows placed in corners and high clerestories, bounce the abundant natural light so that the owners use the interior LED lighting primarily at night. Windows were sited to frame views of the neighboring park and water, and capture the light, but represent a very low percentage of glazing to wall to conserve energy. Primarily native, xeriscaped turfless landscaping sips reclaimed water from its drip and bubbler irrigiation system, and requires little trimming or chemicals. Established trees, protected during construction, shade the home, FSC certified decks, and yard, providing a cool place to enjoy the outdoors at any time of the day, even in Florida's summer heat. Rainwater is diverted from the bay through the engineered collection and filtration system to an integrated concrete cistern hidden beneath the decks. Abundant Florida rainwater supplies 100 per cent of the home's needs, including drinking, bathing, and cleaning. Naturally soft, the highly filtered and UV purified water requires no chemical treatment or water softener. Coupled with minimal hardscape and permeable drive and walkways, almost all ground water remains on the lot, and out of storm sewers and bay runoffs. Designed as a forever home for this active retired couple, an open floor plan provides diagonal interior views along with great circulation space. Wide hallways and doors, curbless showers, an elevator, and extra blocking in the walls for grab rails insures the couple of being able to use their home even if physical disabilities arise. The home's footprint is minimized by building over the conditioned crawlspace and over-sized garage, and the finished floor height, at least two feet above flood code requirements, significantly reduces insurance costs while maximizing storage space for camping and water sports equipment. Materials, fixtures and appliances were carefully selected for energy and water efficiency, local production where possible, recycled content/recyclability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The owners were very involved in vetting and materials selections, and assisted in just-in-time purchasing to minimize waste. Scrap materials were sorted daily for re-use elsewhere in the project (blocking, concrete forms, drywall scraps as acoustical insulation in interior walls, etc.), resulting in a tiny waste pile at the end of a dumpster-free project. Concrete waste was hauled to a local recycler to become road base, and extra useable materials were returned to the vendor or donated to Habitat Restore. Cost-effective choices, and careful planning, saved significant dollars in construction cost as well as landfill space. One of the biggest challenges was finding qualified subcontractors who would work within the guidelines. With the help of our LEED consultant and meetings and explanations, most subcontractors not only bought into the ideas readily, but offered up new ideas. Highly skilled and professional, the team of subs, LEED consultant, and contractor proved that LEED construction is excellent construction. The team, the owners, and I also found that LEED construction makes great economic sense. Most materials (other than increased insulation and photovoltaic panels) cost no more, and sometimes less, than those employed in construction of a lesser standard. The owners have been living in the home for a year now, and are thrilled with the results. No power bill. No water bill. Extremely low insurance bill. Minimal ground maintenance. No fabric softener. Reduced use of soap, detergents, and shampoos and cleaning supplies. Less time cleaning with spot-free rainwater. Careful planning and materials selection brought the project in under budget, and the home operates at an extremely low cost, both to the homeowners, and the environment. Who wouldn't be thrilled?

Paradise Cove features our popular New Spirit cedar and stucco paneling exterior in an abstract design which has been created to complement a contemporary focus on symmetrical windows and doors. It features a shed roof pitch that has a corner focus of stacked windows that are oriented towards a panoramic ocean view. The heart of the home includes an open concept kitchen with spacious 3 panel sliding door which opens up to provide access to a large deck for outside dining and relaxation. It has 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths with a bonus room office/den to make room for extra guests. Milgard windows and doors provide quality double pane energy-star ratings, while pumice insulation, inside and out, provides sound proofing and is the ultimate choice for reducing any utility bills.

Bill Magee, Homeowner
Kitchen - rustic kitchen idea in Little Rock

Design by: Bill Tweten, CKD, CBD A transitional frameless kitchen by Crystal Encore Cabinets features a Hampstead door style finished in Praline. Victoria Cambria is used throughout the kitchen and TV area and paired with Ashford Cambria for the breakfast table to add a little distinction between the areas. The hardware is finished in a brushed satin nickel and features a soft curve.

Design by: Bill Tweten, CKD, CBD This craftsman style kitchen has been accomplished with Crystal ¼ sawn white oak cabinets finished in a natural flat sheen. The use of the inset frame design is complimented by the Regent door style and accented with weathered nickel door pulls and drawer cup pulls. A sink bump out helped to expand the space in the kitchen and an addition of china cabinets, featuring the same Regent inset style cabinetry, were added to create a beautiful display and add extra storage between the kitchen and the dining. Mixing silestone and laminate countertops adds to the overall charm of this newly designed kitchen and provides plenty of countertop space.

Treve Johnson Photography
Example of a mid-sized trendy master white tile and porcelain tile light wood floor freestanding bathtub design in San Francisco with flat-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, a drop-in sink and quartz countertops

Updated Spec Home: Foyer and Great Room In our last post, we introduced you to my mom and sister’s Updated Spec Home; the Foyer and Great Room will be featured in this post. Foyer As you enter their home, to the right is a hall closet and a french door which leads to the Basement. To the left is a long wall which was perfect for an extra long console table in a rustic finish that served as a sofa table in their previous home. I love repositioning furniture, and by using this table in the entry, it makes it feel new. Additionally, we placed a vibrant piece of art previously used in my sister’s Bedroom above the table. This piece not only sets the tone for our color palette, it also makes the kind of statement you want in your Foyer – Wow! We added accessories and an unique lamp to complete the space. Great Room In the Great Room which is open to the Foyer, we installed our inspiration artwork in the place of honor over the mantel. Since the piece was vertical, it did not take up enough space. I do not like a “fussy” mantel with lots of accessories so we found these two vases in a silver leaf finish. They were perfect because they were large enough, but not too deep. Accessorizing mantels can be tricky because the majority of them are not deep. We went to Jan’s Floral Design to add vibrant color and interesting textures to the vases. The original mantel was too small and uninspired. Therefore, we had our contractor Brad Anderson built a new one based on a photo of a mantel we liked. The new mantel has lots of great detail and is the appropriate proportion for the fireplace. We replaced beige 12×12 ceramic tiles with gorgeous large pieces of smoked carrara marble for a striking fireplace surround. Check out this other mantel that we updated. For furniture, we purchased a shorter sofa in a gray tweed fabric. Typically, two throw pillows come with a sofa.We added a fun fringe to the pillows that came with the sofa. I recommend ordering pillows that match your sofa fabric and layering with custom pillows that support your color palette. We added a patterned custom pillow and a striped throw. Next, we got a small scale recliner in a yummy gray leather for my mom and a chair and ottoman in a small scale mint and gray geometric pattern for my sister. We added an accent chair in a fun small scale stripe to fill a corner and add additional seating – which is always a good thing. Remember that this was a Spec Home so there were no built-ins. As a result, we needed a media cabinet for the television and some bookcases to display my mom’s decorative box collection and my sister’s collection of blown colored glass. This set from Ballard Designs fit the bill perfectly. The back is open and airy with nice detail. The wood finish also adds a richness to the space. My mom needed a space for her computer, and this small writing desk fit the space perfectly. Finally, for finishing touches, we added a patterned rug, cornice boards in a mint leaf fabric, and great lamps for ambient lighting. These two rooms are stunning, vibrant and livable. Can’t wait to show you more in our next post! Enjoy!

Photo: Bonnie McCarthy © 2016 Houzz
Mid-century modern living room photo in Los Angeles

- AVANTGARDE BAR. Bar unit composed by an extra-clear bush-hammered glass counter with inside lighting, a glass platform and shelves-unit in brushed-polyester black shiny lacquered wood, with back in white lacquered glass. 49’’1/4W x 57’’/44’’D x 85’’H (43’’3/8 H) http://ow.ly/3z8emC - BASTIDE BARSTOOL. Bar stool with structure in black shiny lacquered wood. Cover leather or Valcana. 17’’W x 20’’7/8D x 50’’3/8H. Seat height 29’’1/2. http://ow.ly/3z8eji - BILL BILLIARD TABLE. Billiard table with glass top whose edge is lit by LEDs and with shiny lacquered wooden structure. Murano glass legs in ‘‘Platinum’‘ finish, available in clear or black, blue-grey, amber or red colour. 65’’W x 116’’1/8D x 32’’1/4H. http://ow.ly/3z8eoF

LIVING ROOM This week’s post features our Lake Forest Freshen Up: Living Room + Dining Room for the homeowners who relocated from California. The first thing we did was remove a large built-in along the longest wall and re-orient the television to a shorter wall. This allowed us to place the sofa which is the largest piece of furniture along the long wall and made the traffic flow from the Foyer to the Kitchen much easier. Now the beautiful stone fireplace is the focal point and the seating arrangement is cozy. We painted the walls Sherwin Williams’ Tony Taupe (SW7039). The mantle was originally white so we warmed it up with Sherwin Williams’ Gauntlet Gray (SW7019). We kept the upholstery neutral with warm gray tones and added pops of turquoise and silver. We tackled the large angled wall with an oversized print in vivid blues and greens. The extra tall contemporary lamps balance out the artwork. I love the end tables with the mixture of metal and wood, but my favorite piece is the leather ottoman with slide tray – it’s gorgeous and functional! The homeowner’s curio cabinet was the perfect scale for this wall and her art glass collection bring more color into the space. The large octagonal mirror was perfect for above the mantle. The homeowner wanted something unique to accessorize the mantle, and these “oil cans” fit the bill. A geometric fireplace screen completes the look. The hand hooked rug with its subtle pattern and touches of gray and turquoise ground the seating area and brings lots of warmth to the room. DINING ROOM There are only 2 walls in this Dining Room so we wanted to add a strong color with Sherwin Williams’ Cadet (SW9143). Utilizing the homeowners’ existing furniture, we added artwork that pops off the wall, a modern rug which adds interest and softness, and this stunning chandelier which adds a focal point and lots of bling! The Lake Forest Freshen Up: Living Room + Dining Room really reflects the homeowners’ transitional style, and the color palette is sophisticated and inviting. Enjoy!