This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

These Canton, MA homeowners wanted to transform their standard build master bath into a more opened up and luxurious space. Knowing they would be living in the home for many years, the couple wanted a comfortable and spa-like feel. To achieve this, Renovisions Design and Remodeling removed the existing door to the bathroom and re-worked a pocket door into the design creating a better flow into the bath from the master bedroom. Replacing the existing fiberglass one-piece shower/tub with a custom built walk-in shower provided a larger space that is both functional and beautiful and a highly desired space to wind down at the end of their long workdays. Gorgeous porcelain tile compliments granite shelving, shower seat and curbing that was fabricated to match the existing vanity countertop. A frameless glass enclosure created a half-wall allowing for more light into the room yet ensures privacy. Just a step away, a thermostatically controlled, programmable heated floor entices the homeowners on chilly mornings. Now the clients have the master bathroom suite they had always wanted.

The modern masterpiece you all have been waiting for has arrived in the desirable Fashion Square of Sherman oaks! The amazing curb appeal draws you in and continues into the dramatic entry impressing the most discerning eye! The grand scale ceiling height, state of the art design & incredibly open, airy floor plan create a seamless flow. This home offers 4 BR + 4.5 BA + office or 5th BR, approx. 5000 sq. ft. of inside living area, a unique 1200 sq. ft. upper wrap around deck while sitting proudly on a 8,400 sq. ft. lot. Chic kitchen w/ Caesar stone counters, custom backsplash, top of the line stainless steel appliances & large center island opens to dining area & living room. Massive accordion doors open to outdoor patio, large pool, built- in BBQ & grass area, promising ultimate indoor/outdoor living. Sleek master suite w/ fireplace, floating ceilings, oversized closet w/ dressing table, spa bath & sliding doors open to incredible deck. Impressive media room, walls of glass lends itself to tons of natural light. Features include: wide plank floors, control 4 system, security cameras, covered patio. Sophisticated and warm…this rare gem has it all. Our team at Regal worked long and hard hours to complete this job and create it exactly as the home owner dreamed!

This outdoor cabana kitchen was turned into private sanctuary once the owners added Weatherwell Elite aluminum shutters. It gave them the flexibility to block the wind and the sun glare when needed, or open up to the view. It also created some much needed privacy from their neighbors. Now they can use their cabana 365 days a year.

This is an example of a large full sun front yard landscaping.

Tom Holdsworth Photography The clients’ wish-list, for this mid-sized coastal master bathroom, was very specific. It was to have a light, airy, and open feeling; raised ceilings; a window in the shower area; a soaking tub; double sinks; inclusion of the clients’ stained-glass window; and specialty tile. To create this light, airy, and open feeling, half of the old interior wall [hiding the old shower area] was removed. In its place, is an open shower. Water flows from a large rain showerhead mounted on the raised ceiling. The floor under the showerhead slopes, on all four sides, so that water can funnel into the floor drain. The shower window [with obscure glass, to bring in more light], shower bench, recessed-shampoo niche, and electronic temperature-control unit [on the wall panel] add to the shower’s ambiance and serviceability. Unique details, that balance and enhance the dynamics of the bathroom, include: quartz solid-surface material on top of the shower bench, undermount tub, and undermount sinks’ counter-top; vintage-styled light fixtures over the two sinks; grey recessed-paneled linen and vanity cabinets, that compliment the white walls and vertical tiles; dark ceramic flooring; large-awning windows that swing open; pivot mirrors; a colorful-interior stained-glass window, that can be seen from both the new bath and adjacent master bedroom; and a specialty tile [of a person relaxing in a tub] positioned flush with the large-white wall tiles. After seeing the original bathroom, it is hard to imagine, that this renovation includes all of the Broadwater’s wish list. They are more than satisfied with their new crisp, clean, airy space.

Elite Landscaping removed an old vinyl liner pool from this home in a premier Omaha neighborhood. The goal was to install a new, concrete infinity-edge pool and spa with accessible pool deck. And we accomplished so much more! During the backyard remodel, the yard was elevated by 7.5 feet to improve access from the house to the pool deck with just three steps and a wheelchair-accessible ramp. More than 3,000 sq. feet of natural Travertine were installed for the pool deck, with stone veneer accents around the seating areas and firepit. An outdoor kitchen was installed, featuring polished granite countertops, a Fire Magic grill, Black Diamond appliances, and ample storage drawers. The pool structure boasts a 16-foot wide infinity edge, which is adorned with Black Galaxy iridescent glass tile. The pool wall is topped with fire/water bowls that cascade into the pool. A raised, double spa with 11-foot black granite ‘sheerfall’ edge also cascades into the pool. The custom concrete pool and raised spa each have their own variable speed pumps and heating systems for separate water flow and temperature control. Both can be fully automated through a smartphone or other smart device with the Pentair IntelliTouch system. An app allows homeowners to program LED lights, adjust temperature and water flow speeds, and test pool chemistry.

The limited amount of usable outdoor space available at this Old Greenwich waterfront home challenged us to make the best use of the space. The client decided to create this 8’6” x 7’ saltwater spa/pool with a stone veneer wall with a built in waterfall and fire feature. The raised Chinese granite and bluestone patio was custom built on a steel substructure that needed to be structurally engineered to support this unique custom design. In addition, the water feature, spa and pool equipment itself was designed for cold weather and 12 months of usage. The stone for the wall was hand selected to match the exterior walls of the residence. The custom 6 ft linear fire feature was set in a sea of cobalt blue and bright white glass on top of the stone wall. To cap the custom fire feature, a hand cut piece of bluestone was used. A sheer decent razor thin waterfall flows from the face of the stone wall into the body of water below. Atop the feature wall sits a stainless steel sculpture by the French artist, Guillaume Roche. The sculpture is part of his Exclos series, which seeks to contrast through concepts such as mass and void. Each piece is unique, designed and realized in his workshop in Etrechy en Essonne, France and compliments the unique design of the water feature. The interior of the pool is finished in a French Gray quartzite accented by a linear Ceramic Waterline Tile. The Custom Saltwater Spa is fitted with 16 Hydro Therapy Jet Inlets and special spa bench seating. The pool utilizes green technology to sanitize the pool with a Jandy saltwater chlorinating system. The Jandy Pro Series WaterColors LED color pool and spa lights with RGBW bring a palate of colors to this backyard paradise for a truly unique atmosphere. The spa lights offer energy efficiency and the colors enhance the brilliance of the nighttime pool experience. The automatic spa safety cover is concealed below a bluestone tread, which blends in with the rest of the spa coping. The Jandy I Aqualink automated pool control system is operated by the Control4 in-house smart system, which allows the client to use a smart phone or computer to control the pool. Kelly Marshall Photographer

This custom-built floating staircase makes a bold architectural statement at the heart of the home. Designed and built by New Explode Construction, it features sleek black stringers and warm oak treads, anchored by a vertical slatted wood feature wall that adds texture, light control, and sculptural beauty. The open risers enhance visibility and airiness, contributing to the seamless vertical connection between floors. A modern showpiece that reflects both craftsmanship and confidence, this stairway is as functional as it is striking. Contemporary Staircase, Floating Stairs, Slatted Wood Wall, Open Risers, Architectural Stairs, Custom Staircase, Statement Staircase, Boutique Builder, NEC Chicago, Vertical Wood Screen, Wood And Steel Design, Modern Home Feature, Interior Architecture, Lake Forest Homes, Sculptural Staircase, Sleek Interiors, Clean Lines, Elevated Design, Entryway Focal Point, Light Filled Interiors, Oak Treads, Black Stringer, Industrial Modern, Warm Minimalism, Natural Texture, Contemporary Architecture, Tailored Interiors, Vertical Flow, Seamless Living, Modern Design Detail, Stairway Inspiration, High End Renovation, Functional Art, Built With Intention, Stair Goals, Modern Woodwork, Custom Millwork, Refined Interiors, New Explode Construction

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

2013 NKBA MEDIUM BATH When this young couple purchased their nearly 25-year-old colonial, the master bathroom was the first thing they wanted to change. Drab looking with worn out cabinets and a shower that was too small, it didn’t fit their modern vision for the space. Working with Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, they came up with a plan to enlarge the bathroom, stealing space from the master bedroom. The new design includes a much larger shower, the addition of a walk-in shower and more. And the results are nothing less than stunning. A new, frameless glass shower stall is equipped with a steam unit, body sprays, rain shower head, and thermostatic valve and control. A double-sided fireplace overlooks a large whirlpool tub (also visible from the master bedroom). Modern wall hanger espresso finish vanities are topped with a marble top and his and her tumbled marble vessel sinks. Two tall linen cabinets bookend the vanity for additional storage. A recessed mirror with back lighting effect was also installed. Large 20” × 20” white marble floor and walls with dark metallic tile were placed on featured walls for added effects. The floors in both the bathroom and closet are heated. An enlarged doorway from bathroom to walk-in closet offers double French glass doors which are pocketed for better traffic flow. Built-in closet systems are his and hers with matching cherry espresso finish cabinetry covered by obscure glass doors and a touch pad lighting system. The middle island features shoe racks and tie and socks storage. Clean, streamlined and functional, the homeowners love this award-winning space.

Becky Hulsey, Envision Virtual Tours The Lodge at Gold Mine Falls A Once in a Lifetime Opportunity Awaits…. Have you dreamed of owning your own spectacular waterfall, a serene trout pond, or a one of a kind mountain lodge filled with high end touches, all near Lake Burton? If the answer is yes…..then “The Lodge at Gold Mine Falls” is for you! Located just off HW 76 .3 miles to Anchorage Marina, this unique 2.8 acre property borders the National Forest, boasts a fully remodeled 3 bedroom, 3 bath, 2000+ square foot rock lodge that is adjacent to its own private, spectacular 60 foot waterfall all surrounded by native landscape such as rhododendron and mountain laurel. Tumbling under the 40 foot suspension bridge, the pristine, crystal clear water continues to ramble on its way to large pond ready to be stocked with trout. Picture yourself fly fishing for a trout dinner right at your front door, or delight your friends or family while entertaining on your new porch or extensive, multi-level deck that connects your new home to your own waterfall. The kids or grandkids will be entertained for hours wading in the pool at the base of the waterfall, exploring the crooks and crannies among the stream’s boulders while looking for salamanders, or panning for “fool’s gold” in the stream. Just imagine….The Lodge at Gold Mine Falls has all this and more! As you walk up the front steps to The Lodge at Gold Mine Falls, you will notice the craftsmanship of this uniquely one of a kind home made from local stone and granite from a period gone by. If you look closely at some of the stones, you will find raw garnets, some the size of a nail head. Upon opening the front door constructed of solid oak and a tasteful piece of leaded glass, you will be amazed at the spaciousness of the lodge room. Once upon a time, the 20 x 30 foot room with 10 foot ceilings was the entire home. The focal piece of the room is the new floor to ceiling field stone fireplace, hand honed solid maple mantel, rounded hearth, accentuated by a hand-cut keystone, and flanked by raw cedar columns. The new gas logs can be remotely controlled with programmable heat. A built-in floor to ceiling cherry wood wall unit, with granite serving surface, highlights a side wall and is topped off with a large piece of stained glass from an English pub. The mood lighting behind the stained glass and the antique library ladder really highlights this unique bookcase. Distinctive lighting fixtures and fans provide dining area lighting and circulation from the cool breezes off of Lake Burton. On the bottom, the solid oak 1.5 inch flooring is a remnant of the past on the top, the height of the ceilings is enhanced by double crown moldings throughout and a touch of the outdoors is brought indoors by the three new skylights. Surrounded by rustic cedar window boxes, additional ambient light streams through the four windows facing south, and the new French doors. As you open the French doors to the new porch, you are immediately struck by the sights and sound produced by the rushing water as it cascades over the spectacular multilevel waterfall. You will also notice that the mountain has literally been carved away as you view the layers and striations in the granite that surround the back of the porch. The peaked cathedral ceiling sports a glass apex and the bead board on the ceiling accentuated by the raw cedar plank framing and the five cedar trees used as cornerstones all bring the outdoors within your reach. The addition of “E-Z Breeze” vinyl windows along with the cast iron gas stove will allow you and your family to enjoy the beauty and continually changing scenery at The Lodge at Gold Mine Fall during all four seasons. Opening the Adirondack style door on the other side of the lodge room allows you to step into the Lodge’s addition built at a later date. The four foot wide hallway boasts stained glass light fixtures and an architectural feature from the new stairwell that divides the living and the bedroom spaces. Knowing that the east wall in the kitchen and study were once on the home’s exterior allowed us to investigate and reveal the true character of these walls by removing the two layers of drywall and 4 inches of plaster exposing a striking addition to both rooms…… beautiful granite rock walls. The hallway flows into the granite breakfast bar which fully complements the newly exposed granite wall. From the Viking SS refrigerator to gas Jenn Air ceramic cooktop and microwave the appliances are a chef’s delight. Lighting is a critical component in a gourmet kitchen and the light from the double window is enhanced by two spotlights over the cooking area, LED task lighting under the cabinets, mood lighting over the top cabinets, and four “Murano” hand blown glass pendant lights over the sink and bar area. Scoring points in the design category, the full wood “Thomasville” two tone glazed cabinets that are country white and palomino scream style and sophistication, and are accentuated by the cool copper glass backsplash and refined stainless steel hardware. The porcelain, two bowl farmhouse sink is large enough for your biggest pots while the stainless steel sink guards will protect it from scratches. The SS faucet is professional quality and the Insinkerator will help the chef in the house save time with instant 190 degree water. An eight foot long exposed cedar tree trunk hangs over the cooking area allowing the chef to hang his/her favorite utensils and pots or pans in full lodge style. And who wouldn’t crave a large walk in pantry with commercial grade slides that will up to 120 pounds. With all these features, the cook/cooks in the family will love spending time in this room. Across from the kitchen is a study/office area which can be closed off from the hallway by a double barn door. Except for the remarkable exposed granite rock wall mentioned earlier, the entire room has been paneled with raw cedar boards treated with Australian Tree Oil for true lodge feel. The triple crank out window provides a superb view of the pond and blazing Japanese maple trees in the fall. Outside, the hallway leads to the utility room which has been fully upgraded with all the modern amenities. The oak cabinetry with granite tops also has an extra deep sink with commercial kitchen sprayer. The sink area is surrounded by white subway tile while slate and green glass mini tile accents bring the outdoor colors inside. The doggy door, new exterior door and crank out window provide access to the back yard and additional light. From the new “Rinnai” point of use, gas hot water heater to the new “LG” full size, stackable washer and dryer, this utility room delivers. The master bedroom has four windows which provide outstanding light and air circulation. To take the chill off of nippy evenings, this bedroom also has its own romantic fireplace with travertine marble surround, remote controlled gas logs, and a beautiful antique oak and mirror mantle. To top it off, the en-suite bath contains high end fixtures, a spacious vanity, and floor to ceiling rain shower with independent valves allowing you to turn on the shower and not get wet. Multiple safety handrails and a fold down shower seat give bathers assurance and provide an additional measure of safety. The earthy color tiles, glass tile accents and hand blown light fixtures continue the lodge theme in this end of the house. Located across the hall, the guest bedroom is light and airy with its white window boxes and double crown molding, and also has an attached bathroom. This bathroom also has an entrance door leading to the hallway and doubles as the guest bathroom for the house. Its antique oak vanity and mirror, stained glass lights and wrought iron accents remind me of a past era while the vessel sink, modern fixtures, and floor to ceiling travertine and glass tile rain shower all bring the bathroom up to modern standards. Located at the end of the hallway, and next to the guest bathroom, is the handcrafted stairwell leading to the sleeping loft. The distinctive maple stair treads with their grain and raw edge being displayed, were milled locally in Clayton and then installed from underneath so that no screw or nail heads are visible. The staircase was completed with wrought iron spindles, raw cedar handrail and floor to ceiling end post. Upon your entry into the sleeping loft, you will notice the amount of light that enters through the two skylights and large window facing the pond. The sound of water rushing over the pond’s spillway is a delightful addition to this large sleeping loft. Finished with engineered hardwood flooring and two built in double beds with tree trunks for legs, the room can accommodate four additional twin beds. The sleeping loft is also equipped with a kitchenette and a distinctive cedar and rock walled bathroom. The bath features an antique dresser vanity with marble vessel sink, distinctive fixtures and a floor to ceiling polished travertine marble shower with rain head. This bathroom also has an exterior door leading to a secondary upstairs staircase in the back yard. Just envision the great sleepovers the kids or grandkids will have here or how your out of town friends or family will just love this special area designed with their comfort and needs in mind. Originally constructed in 1925 by “off Broadway” star Rose Grant, this property is rich in history. In the early years, this home was one of the first in Rabun County to generate its own electric from the waterfall. Several small cabins were also built on the property and rented out to guests who came for the waterfall, swim in the pond and connect with nature. Other notable residents were Mrs. and Doctor Fowler who was a local pediatrician. According to an aged newspaper article, Mrs. Fowler was very interested in the indigenous flora and fauna and grew a variety of native plants on the property including some that were rare or endangered. Many metal name tags still remain along the various paths on the property thus reminding you of times gone by and the true beauty of property. Lastly, this solidly built home has just been structurally solidified, become more energy efficient, and reconfigured to further usable space all while retaining the Lodge’s original charm. After removing the flooring in the kitchen, hall and both bathrooms, the home’s structure and roof were fortified with numerous concrete footers to support both bathrooms, kitchen, and stairwell walls that extend from floor to roof. To make this home more comfortable, energy efficient, and bring it up to modern standards, the electrical system was upgraded to 220 service with the wiring, outlets, electrical panels and fixtures replaced throughout the entire home. A whole house surge protector was also installed to protect against damage that may occur with lightning strikes. Speaking of electric…..the pond’s newly poured formed concrete wall contains a pipe enabling you to install your own hydro-electric system. And whether you might decide to tie into the grid or store you energy in a battery system, you could generate your own electric 24/7. The homes plumbing was also replaced with new pipes, energy/water efficient fixtures in each bathroom (including three Toto toilets), and a new cistern was installed behind the garage with a laboratory grade water filtration system. The task of water heating was completed by a gas Rinnai point of use hot water heater in the utility room and all windows were replaced with Anderson thermal pane and 6 Velux skylights were mounted to bring the outdoors inside. The home’s HVAC system was top of the line several years ago and both sets of new gas logs are controlled with remotes. Formerly a summer home, all exterior walls were studded out with insulation added, and whole house fans were installed in the attic and upstairs bathroom. Although many of these upgrades may not be visible, they allow the home to be more energy efficient and more comfortable……allowing The Lodge at Gold Mine Falls to become your four season retreat.

2013 NKBA MEDIUM BATH When this young couple purchased their nearly 25-year-old colonial, the master bathroom was the first thing they wanted to change. Drab looking with worn out cabinets and a shower that was too small, it didn’t fit their modern vision for the space. Working with Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, they came up with a plan to enlarge the bathroom, stealing space from the master bedroom. The new design includes a much larger shower, the addition of a walk-in shower and more. And the results are nothing less than stunning. A new, frameless glass shower stall is equipped with a steam unit, body sprays, rain shower head, and thermostatic valve and control. A double-sided fireplace overlooks a large whirlpool tub (also visible from the master bedroom). Modern wall hanger espresso finish vanities are topped with a marble top and his and her tumbled marble vessel sinks. Two tall linen cabinets bookend the vanity for additional storage. A recessed mirror with back lighting effect was also installed. Large 20” × 20” white marble floor and walls with dark metallic tile were placed on featured walls for added effects. The floors in both the bathroom and closet are heated. An enlarged doorway from bathroom to walk-in closet offers double French glass doors which are pocketed for better traffic flow. Built-in closet systems are his and hers with matching cherry espresso finish cabinetry covered by obscure glass doors and a touch pad lighting system. The middle island features shoe racks and tie and socks storage. Clean, streamlined and functional, the homeowners love this award-winning space.

Photo of a mid-sized asian shade side yard stone garden path in New York.

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

To maximize flow we decided against a large island or any peninsula concept, and opted for a two-island design. The placement for individual work zones with supporting appliances came together easily. Soffits were added to the 9’ ceiling, controlling the height of the cabinetry and creating opportunities for design details. The design features industrial-style floor tile and leathered countertops around the perimeter. Dark cabinetry is showcased on the islands and cabinets flanking the custom metal hood. Rift cut white oak cabinets stained with subtle grey add warmth. The center of the room is bright with white countertops, waterfalling to the floor where the islands meet. The soffits feature grasscloth with dramatically scaled lighting. Photo: Jim Furhmann

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Elite Landscaping removed an old vinyl liner pool from this home in a premier Omaha neighborhood. The goal was to install a new, concrete infinity-edge pool and spa with accessible pool deck. And we accomplished so much more! During the backyard remodel, the yard was elevated by 7.5 feet to improve access from the house to the pool deck with just three steps and a wheelchair-accessible ramp. More than 3,000 sq. feet of natural Travertine were installed for the pool deck, with stone veneer accents around the seating areas and firepit. An outdoor kitchen was installed, featuring polished granite countertops, a Fire Magic grill, Black Diamond appliances, and ample storage drawers. The pool structure boasts a 16-foot wide infinity edge, which is adorned with Black Galaxy iridescent glass tile. The pool wall is topped with fire/water bowls that cascade into the pool. A raised, double spa with 11-foot black granite ‘sheerfall’ edge also cascades into the pool. The custom concrete pool and raised spa each have their own variable speed pumps and heating systems for separate water flow and temperature control. Both can be fully automated through a smartphone or other smart device with the Pentair IntelliTouch system. An app allows homeowners to program LED lights, adjust temperature and water flow speeds, and test pool chemistry.

Elite Landscaping removed an old vinyl liner pool from this home in a premier Omaha neighborhood. The goal was to install a new, concrete infinity-edge pool and spa with accessible pool deck. And we accomplished so much more! During the backyard remodel, the yard was elevated by 7.5 feet to improve access from the house to the pool deck with just three steps and a wheelchair-accessible ramp. More than 3,000 sq. feet of natural Travertine were installed for the pool deck, with stone veneer accents around the seating areas and firepit. An outdoor kitchen was installed, featuring polished granite countertops, a Fire Magic grill, Black Diamond appliances, and ample storage drawers. The pool structure boasts a 16-foot wide infinity edge, which is adorned with Black Galaxy iridescent glass tile. The pool wall is topped with fire/water bowls that cascade into the pool. A raised, double spa with 11-foot black granite ‘sheerfall’ edge also cascades into the pool. The custom concrete pool and raised spa each have their own variable speed pumps and heating systems for separate water flow and temperature control. Both can be fully automated through a smartphone or other smart device with the Pentair IntelliTouch system. An app allows homeowners to program LED lights, adjust temperature and water flow speeds, and test pool chemistry.