On top of the hill, a raised deck was created for outdoor dining. We are fortunate in Southern California to have beautiful weather year round, which makes dining al fresco a pleasure. Here, you can imagine yourself enjoying dinner from your new kitchen.

This client's rotted old deck needed a fresh new look and a serious safety upgrade. We created a multi-level haven with cooking and lounging areas, accented with cool contemporary metal privacy screens! Designed and built by Paul Lafrance Design.

The Twin Peaks Passive House + ADU was designed and built to remain resilient in the face of natural disasters. Fortunately, the same great building strategies and design that provide resilience also provide a home that is incredibly comfortable and healthy while also visually stunning. This home’s journey began with a desire to design and build a house that meets the rigorous standards of Passive House. Before beginning the design/ construction process, the homeowners had already spent countless hours researching ways to minimize their global climate change footprint. As with any Passive House, a large portion of this research was focused on building envelope design and construction. The wall assembly is combination of six inch Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) and 2x6 stick frame construction filled with blown in insulation. The roof assembly is a combination of twelve inch SIPs and 2x12 stick frame construction filled with batt insulation. The pairing of SIPs and traditional stick framing allowed for easy air sealing details and a continuous thermal break between the panels and the wall framing. Beyond the building envelope, a number of other high performance strategies were used in constructing this home and ADU such as: battery storage of solar energy, ground source heat pump technology, Heat Recovery Ventilation, LED lighting, and heat pump water heating technology. In addition to the time and energy spent on reaching Passivhaus Standards, thoughtful design and carefully chosen interior finishes coalesce at the Twin Peaks Passive House + ADU into stunning interiors with modern farmhouse appeal. The result is a graceful combination of innovation, durability, and aesthetics that will last for a century to come. Despite the requirements of adhering to some of the most rigorous environmental standards in construction today, the homeowners chose to certify both their main home and their ADU to Passive House Standards. From a meticulously designed building envelope that tested at 0.62 ACH50, to the extensive solar array/ battery bank combination that allows designated circuits to function, uninterrupted for at least 48 hours, the Twin Peaks Passive House has a long list of high performance features that contributed to the completion of this arduous certification process. The ADU was also designed and built with these high standards in mind. Both homes have the same wall and roof assembly ,an HRV, and a Passive House Certified window and doors package. While the main home includes a ground source heat pump that warms both the radiant floors and domestic hot water tank, the more compact ADU is heated with a mini-split ductless heat pump. The end result is a home and ADU built to last, both of which are a testament to owners’ commitment to lessen their impact on the environment.

We feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work on this clean NW Contemporary home. Due to its remote location, our goal was to pre-fabricate as much as possible and shorten the installation time on site. We were able to cut and pre-fit all the glue-laminated timber frame structural elements, the Douglas Fir tongue and groove ceilings, and even the open riser Maple stair. The pictures mostly speak for themselves; but it is worth noting, we were very pleased with the final result. Despite its simple modern aesthetic with exposed concrete walls and miles of glass on the view side, the wood ceilings and the warm lighting give a cozy, comfy feel to the spaces. The owners were very involved with the design and build, including swinging hammers with us, so it was a real labor of love. The owners, and ourselves, walked away from the project with a great pride and deep feeling of satisfied accomplishment. Design by Level Design Photography by C9 Photography

30 Years of Construction Experience in the Bay Area | Best of Houzz! We are a passionate, family owned/operated local business in the Bay Area, California. At Lavan Construction, we create a fresh and fit environment with over 30 years of experience in building and construction in both domestic and international markets. We have a unique blend of leadership combining expertise in construction contracting and management experience from Fortune 500 companies. We commit to deliver you a world class experience within your budget and timeline while maintaining trust and transparency. At Lavan Construction, we believe relationships are the main component of any successful business and we stand by our motto: “Trust is the foundation we build on.”

From 2020 to 2022 we had the opportunity to work with this wonderful client building in Altadore. We were so fortunate to help them build their family dream home. They wanted to add some fun pops of color and make it their own. So we implemented green and blue tiles into the bathrooms. The kitchen is extremely fashion forward with open shelves on either side of the hoodfan, and the wooden handles throughout. There are nodes to mid century modern in this home that give it a classic look. Our favorite details are the stair handrail, and the natural flagstone fireplace. The fun, cozy upper hall reading area is a reader’s paradise. This home is both stylish and perfect for a young busy family.

This European-style house radiates a regal aura akin to Victorian elegance, while also embracing the functionality of Southern and Tudor designs. With a focus on unique variations, it boasts a grand presence matched by its well-thought-out features. The covered front porch sets the tone, leading to a main floor plan that includes a luxurious master bedroom and bathroom, a modern formal dining room, and a spacious living area. The kitchen is a highlight with its butler's pantry, island, and eating countertops. Other conveniences like a laundry room, library, and powder room enhance the living experience. Upstairs, two bedrooms each offer their own distinct character, along with a guest room featuring a walk-in closet. Structurally sound with a monolithic slab foundation, this European house promises unparalleled comfort and luxury for its fortunate residents.

The Johnson-Thompson House, built c. 1750, has the distinct title as being the oldest structure in Winchester. Many alterations were made over the years to keep up with the times, but most recently it had the great fortune to get just the right family who appreciated and capitalized on its legacy. From the newly installed pine floors with cut, hand driven nails to the authentic rustic plaster walls, to the original timber frame, this 300 year old Georgian farmhouse is a masterpiece of old and new. Together with the homeowners and Cummings Architects, Windhill Builders embarked on a journey to salvage all of the best from this home and recreate what had been lost over time. To celebrate its history and the stories within, rooms and details were preserved where possible, woodwork and paint colors painstakingly matched and blended; the hall and parlor refurbished; the three run open string staircase lovingly restored; and details like an authentic front door with period hinges masterfully created. To accommodate its modern day family an addition was constructed to house a brand new, farmhouse style kitchen with an oversized island topped with reclaimed oak and a unique backsplash fashioned out of brick that was sourced from the home itself. Bathrooms were added and upgraded, including a spa-like retreat in the master bath, but include features like a claw foot tub, a niche with exposed brick and a magnificent barn door, as nods to the past. This renovation is one for the history books! Eric Roth

My clients had always been inspired by the grand Tudor Revival homes of the early 20th century and commissioned Hull Historical to recreate the authentic custom millwork, paneling and doors for their new Tudor Revival home. Our inspiration came from 2 great English homes, Stan Hywett, a great Tudor Revival home in Ohio, built for the founder of Goodyear Tires. Also, the Woodbine Mansion, built in 1911 for the son of the Pabst Brewing Company. We were fortunate to purchase three rooms of architectural millwork from the woodbine home, which was originally fabricated by the Huber Company of New York. Upon completion of this project, the architectural salvage comprised 15% of the final quantity of paneling installed. The remainder was custom fabricated by Hull Historical at our shop in Fort Worth, TX and installed at the clients home. The commission, based on historic precedent, constituted antique paneling on the main floor, beamed ceilings and all the doors in the home. The new paneling, including the kitchen cabinetry is made from a combination of new quarter-sawn white oak and antique white oak salvaged from old barns and buildings. All the oak was fumed in an ammonia-filled chamber to produce a cocoa color and deep feel giving the millwork rough character and a timeless look that my client loved. The millwork also served to give the home a hierarchy, with simple paneling combined with board and batten doors downstairs, then more ornate paneling, with carvings on the main floor. Additionally, the main floor features mostly 8 and 10 panel doors. All woodwork was hand-pegged with oak pegs. Some of the paneling features a unique Mason’s Miter, a historic joinery technique inspired from stone work. For more information on residential renovation and new construction projects by Hull Historical, visit http://brenthullcompanies.com/residential.html

We sometimes have a small bunkie that can serve as guest cabin or garage. Fortunately, we had one for the Focklers at the time.
Inspiration for a rustic exterior home remodel in Toronto

Our client was a family with younger children that came to us through the recommendations of former customers. Their existing house had been remodeled by them 10 years earlier and was well-suited to the married couple. With the addition of two younger children, they realized that the house just didn’t function very well for their family. Fortunately, the husband and wife took their time thinking about what they wanted, and by the time they met with us, had their needs well laid out. We brought in local Architect, James Stroupe, and recommended him to the client as a collaborative professional who could help us achieve their goals. This proved to be the case. Jim quickly produced design drawings for them within six weeks that clearly reflected all of the client’s needs and preferences while at the same time dramatically re-creating the home in a beautiful contemporary design. The new home required a complete reconstruction of the existing house that left only one bathroom unaltered. New square footage was added at the lower level to expand and reconfigure the living area, while an entirely new upstairs wing was constructed to create space for a new master suite with views out toward the ocean. The entire roof was rebuilt, all new windows and interior doors were added and the full exterior received a new modern looking stucco finish. Stainless steel cable railings were added to the decks to create an updated look, and fine hardwood accents were used to pull the design together. Our efforts produced a new three bedroom, three bath home with a large and inviting ground floor patio area, wide open living areas on the first floor with new kitchen, bathroom and dining room. The photographs in this section show the striking results- clean lines, dramatic architectural touches, and light, open and airy interior spaces. Our client was very pleased with the results.

In a suburb less than 3 miles from Manhattan an old house underwent a major facelift. I had a good fortune of being invited to participate on the garden design and installation. In the front a simple corten steel frame lifts an arrangement of Carex Pensilvanica, that will mature into a lawn that will not need mowing. Playful clusters of Boxwoods add structure and winter interest.

"Finally, a Landscape Company we can rely on for responsible, professional workmanship with showroom display quality." — Nadeen Tuzo New Windsor, New York BACKYARD LANDSCAPE PROJECT An Outdoor Living Environment Work Completed: September 15, 2015 Would You Hire This Company Again? Yes Approximate Cost: $25,000.00 Description Of Work: With a backyard project in mind and a budget in hand, we received several bids from local contractors to do the job; an outdoor living space, kitchen and fireplace. Customer Comments: "It wasn't until after having had some unfortunate dealings with other local unscrupulous contractors who grossly overcharged, over-promised and under-delivered that we came across Artistic Landscapes LLC to ultimately complete our project. Rhett empathized with us after learning of our previous negative experiences. He provided us with excellent customer care, a comprehensive, fair budget and contract, creative aesthetic input, expert knowledge and most importantly, his personal involvement and attention to detail. He delivered on his promise, stuck with the budget, the schedule and exceeded our every expectation on every level. "We are so pleased with the final outcome and would only consider Artistic Landscapes for any future enhancements to our outdoor living space. We highly recommend Rhett and his team. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have found them. Finally, a Landscape Company we can rely on for responsible, professional workmanship with showroom display quality. " Level of Satisfaction: Overall: A Price: A Quality: A Responsiveness: A Punctuality: A Professionalism: A

The Home While looking for space where their active family could expand, these homeowners turned to Black Forest, with trees that remind them of their Indiana years. A stunning Pikes Peak view underscores how fortunate they are to live in Colorado. This home features classic nods to the owner’s French heritage while embracing a thoroughly of-the-moment Colorado lifestyle. Priorities for these homeowners included blending outdoor and indoor spaces wherever possible with generously proportioned windows and doors, porches, patios and balconies. A gracious lime-washed brick entry punctuates a simplified white stucco and black-frame-windowed exterior with traditional rooflines. Dramatic open spaces on the main floor comfortably accommodate the everyday activities of this busy family of four, while providing for welcomed visits from family and friends. A functional, open kitchen is designed for serious cooking, a butler’s pantry for staples, and serveware storage and dining spaces that effortlessly host after-school snacking to multi-course meals. A main-level, Peak-view office comfortably supports working at home, complete with a beer cave and tasting nook for hosting fellow aficionados after work is done. Guests will find comfort and privacy in a ma in-level guestroom suite or sleepover fun in the built-in bunks of the expansive over-garage bonus room. This home is a true collaboration that blends the homeowner’s long-held vision of their ideal home brought to life by the builder’s vision and design/build process that achieves something truly…Warm and welcoming in the Forest. The Builder Stauffer & Sons Construction is a true Design-Build team creating some of the finest living spaces in the Pikes Peak region for over twenty years. We’ve developed an easy point-of-entry to the Design-Build process that begins with our very popular Conceptual Design and Budgeting Agreement. This affordable, low-commitment step provides answers to the early-stage questions of “what and how much?” With this critical information in place, a robust collaboration between client and builder ensues, resulting in a thoughtfully designed home that strikes a balance between size and scope and budget. The Interior Design Family, friends and soon-to-be friends are welcomed into this updated version of a French country farmhouse through a bricked archway and a solid arch-top entry door. Once inside, a sweeping gallery of windows adorned with flower-filled window boxes sets a nice foreground to the ponderosa pine forest. A great room with a two-story, lime-washed, brick fireplace sits juxtaposed to a cozy farm-styled kitchen with large island, plenty of storage and a Pikes Peak view. This family home features a simple, clean design with warm, wooden beams and solid, white-oak flooring. This home is designed to be lived in. Wherever you go, downstairs, upstairs or out on the porch, this home wraps around you and is a delightful place to enjoy.

The Home While looking for space where their active family could expand, these homeowners turned to Black Forest, with trees that remind them of their Indiana years. A stunning Pikes Peak view underscores how fortunate they are to live in Colorado. This home features classic nods to the owner’s French heritage while embracing a thoroughly of-the-moment Colorado lifestyle. Priorities for these homeowners included blending outdoor and indoor spaces wherever possible with generously proportioned windows and doors, porches, patios and balconies. A gracious lime-washed brick entry punctuates a simplified white stucco and black-frame-windowed exterior with traditional rooflines. Dramatic open spaces on the main floor comfortably accommodate the everyday activities of this busy family of four, while providing for welcomed visits from family and friends. A functional, open kitchen is designed for serious cooking, a butler’s pantry for staples, and serveware storage and dining spaces that effortlessly host after-school snacking to multi-course meals. A main-level, Peak-view office comfortably supports working at home, complete with a beer cave and tasting nook for hosting fellow aficionados after work is done. Guests will find comfort and privacy in a ma in-level guestroom suite or sleepover fun in the built-in bunks of the expansive over-garage bonus room. This home is a true collaboration that blends the homeowner’s long-held vision of their ideal home brought to life by the builder’s vision and design/build process that achieves something truly…Warm and welcoming in the Forest. The Builder Stauffer & Sons Construction is a true Design-Build team creating some of the finest living spaces in the Pikes Peak region for over twenty years. We’ve developed an easy point-of-entry to the Design-Build process that begins with our very popular Conceptual Design and Budgeting Agreement. This affordable, low-commitment step provides answers to the early-stage questions of “what and how much?” With this critical information in place, a robust collaboration between client and builder ensues, resulting in a thoughtfully designed home that strikes a balance between size and scope and budget. The Interior Design Family, friends and soon-to-be friends are welcomed into this updated version of a French country farmhouse through a bricked archway and a solid arch-top entry door. Once inside, a sweeping gallery of windows adorned with flower-filled window boxes sets a nice foreground to the ponderosa pine forest. A great room with a two-story, lime-washed, brick fireplace sits juxtaposed to a cozy farm-styled kitchen with large island, plenty of storage and a Pikes Peak view. This family home features a simple, clean design with warm, wooden beams and solid, white-oak flooring. This home is designed to be lived in. Wherever you go, downstairs, upstairs or out on the porch, this home wraps around you and is a delightful place to enjoy.

We are so fortunate to stage for Pete Granger, Inc. and many of the talented builders under the respected Granger Family Homes name. This stunning modern home by Pete Granger, Inc. is new on the market in Kirkland. The fresh and sleek fixtures and finishes throughout made staging a dream. Not surprisingly, the sister home that we transferred this stage from was under contract in only 2 days! Contact Windermere agent Tony Ferrelli at (206) 714-2785 for more info. MLS #888269

In this picture gallery, we see a kitchen remodeling example emphasizing that you don’t have to spend a fortune to renovate a sizable kitchen. By choosing Ikea kitchen cabinets with a medium-priced Ikea kitchen door, you can save but still have a gorgeous and elegant kitchen. From a small dining room and a medium size kitchen, we created a large airy gorgeous kitchen with an oversized island. We used a few Ikea kitchen glass doors on the island to emphasize the pretty china glass. We designed the kitchen with a 32” granite coated Franke main sink and a small prep sink next to the bar area close to the French doors that lead to the deck. We chose a white quartz countertop with subtle veining named Satuario.

Ever think about cooking in style and comfort? then look no further. This transitional Kitchen design is not only modern but is also practical. This home was built from the ground up, so we were fortunate to design this kitchen from a blank slate. Features of the kitchen includes: White paint grade Maple wood Cabinet, Island from Maple wood with espresso finish, big Island with tons of space and outlet on side panel, airy with natural lighting, adequate counter space, huge built-in Pantry, kitchen nook, stainless steel built-in appliances, plenty of overhead and bottom storage, stainless steel handles, built-in wine cooler.

This newly constructed open floor plan home with a large finished basement is ideal for this fun-loving couple. We were fortunate to be included in the very beginning stages of construction space planning to optimize room placement, layout, and spacing. From there, we worked side-by-side with homeowners and contractor in selecting all of the details from floors and doors to lighting and window treatments. These empty nesters love to entertain. Both the main level and the downstairs offer great flow. A bit of luxury was added in the master bathroom with this soaker tub and custom tile shower.