An historic Spanish Colonial residence built in 1925 being redesigned and furnished for a modern-day Southern California family was the challenge. The interiors of the main house needed the backgrounds set and then a timeless collection created for its furnishings. Lifestyle was always a consideration as well as the interiors relating to the strong architecture of the residence. Natural colors such as terra cotta, tans, blues, greens, old red and soft vintage shades were incorporated throughout. Our goal was to maintain the historic character of the residence combining design elements and materials considered classic in Southern California Spanish Colonial architecture. Natural fiber textiles, leathers and woven linens were the predominated upholstery choices. A 7000 square foot basement was added and furnished to provide a gym, Star Wars theater, game areas, spa area and a simulator for indoor golf and other sports. Antiques were selected throughout the world, fine art from major galleries, custom reproductions fabricated in the old-world style. Collectible carpets were selected for the reclaimed hardwood flooring in all the areas. An estancia and garden over the basement were created and furnished with old world designs and materials as reclaimed woods, terra cotta and French limestone flooring.

The Sater Design Collection's luxury, Mediterranean home plan "Portofino" (Plan #6968). saterdesign.com
Inspiration for a large mediterranean master white tile and ceramic tile marble floor freestanding bathtub remodel in Miami with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, marble countertops, a two-piece toilet and beige walls

Meet Meridith: a super-mom who’s as busy as she is badass  — and easily my favorite overachiever. She slays her office job and comes home to an equally high-octane family life. We share a love for city living with farmhouse aspirations. There’s a vegetable garden in the backyard, a black cat, and a floppy eared rabbit named Rocky. There has been a mobile chicken coop and a colony of bees in the backyard. At one point they even had a pregnant hedgehog on their hands! Between gardening, entertaining, and helping with homework, Meridith has zero time for interior design. Spending several days a week in New York for work, she has limited amount of time at home with her family. My goal was to let her make the most of it by taking her design projects off her to do list and let her get back to her family (and rabbit). I wanted her to spend her weekends at her son's baseball games, not shopping for sofas. That’s my cue! Meridith is wonderful. She is one of the kindest people I know. We had so much fun, it doesn’t seem fair to call this “work”. She is loving, and smart, and funny. She’s one of those girlfriends everyone wants to call their own best friend. I wanted her house to reflect that: to feel cozy and inviting, and encourage guests to stay a while. Meridith is not your average beige person, and she has excellent taste. Plus, she was totally hands-on with design choices. It was a true collaboration. We played up her quirky side and built usable, inspiring spaces one lightbulb moment at a time. I took her love for color (sacré blue!) and immediately started creating a plan for her space and thinking about her design wish list. I set out hunting for vibrant hues and intriguing patterns that spoke to her color palette and taste for pattern. I focused on creating the right vibe in each space: a bit of drama in the dining room, a bit more refined and quiet atmosphere for the living room, and a neutral zen tone in their master bedroom. Her stuff. My eye. Meridith’s impeccable taste comes through in her art collection. The perfect placement of her beautiful paintings served as the design model for color and mood. We had a bit of a chair graveyard on our hands, but we worked with some key pieces of her existing furniture and incorporated other traditional pieces, which struck a pleasant balance. French chairs, Asian-influenced footstools, turned legs, gilded finishes, glass hurricanes – a wonderful mash-up of traditional and contemporary. Some special touches were custom-made (the marble backsplash in the powder room, the kitchen banquette) and others were happy accidents (a wallpaper we spotted via Pinterest). They all came together in a design aesthetic that feels warm, inviting, and vibrant — just like Meridith! We built her space based on function. We asked ourselves, “how will her family use each room on any given day?” Meridith throws legendary dinner parties, so we needed curated seating arrangements that could easily switch from family meals to elegant entertaining. We sought a cozy eat-in kitchen and decongested entryways that still made a statement. Above all, we wanted Meredith’s style and panache to shine through every detail. From the pendant in the entryway, to a wild use of pattern in her dining room drapery, Meredith’s space was a total win. See more of our work at www.safferstone.com. Connect with us on Facebook, get inspired on Pinterest, and share modern musings on life & design on Instagram. Or, share what's on your plate with us at hello@safferstone.com. Photo: Angie Seckinger

September, Date and Time TBD | Saratoga Blackwell Hillside Garden by Rebecca Dye and Hank Helbush of Design Focus International Each detail of this spectacular Saratoga landscape was considered with its hillside site in mind, from the size of the pool to the choice of antique stone masonry. Working closely with the owner, the landscape architects created a series of intimate garden spaces on three terraces. At the top of the site, entertainment is the name of the game where a bocce ball court and a fire pit take advantage of the site’s commanding views of the Santa Clara Valley. Below the house, a jewel-like pool captures the eye, with its intricate glass-tile and bronze water jets. At its end, a seating area and fireplace are shaded by an arbor covered with climbing roses, adding both fragrance and hue. Visitors descend a series of terraced stone stairs set into the hillside, punctuated by raised beds of strawberries, lavender, artichokes, and citrus. A formal parterre flower garden on the terrace is replanted periodically with colorful blooms in acknowledgment of the changing seasons. Photo by Lauren Devon

Now this is a basement bar! Eric at Chester County Kitchen & Bath along with the clients and the contractor ( Mike ) from NorthEast Construction Solutions designed this great basement bar and TV/ fireplace surround. Fieldstone Cabinetry in the Roseburg door with Slate finish was a perfect choice for this bar. The cabinetry color coordinates well with the rest of the basement especially the rustic shiplap used behind the TV and on the bar area. The granite is Titanium with a leathered finish and it’s a show stopper. Beverage fridges, beer meister, and plenty of bottle storage abound. This basement is ready for many football games and parties with friends and family.

An historic Spanish Colonial residence built in 1925 being redesigned and furnished for a modern-day Southern California family was the challenge. The interiors of the main house needed the backgrounds set and then a timeless collection created for its furnishings. Lifestyle was always a consideration as well as the interiors relating to the strong architecture of the residence. Natural colors such as terra cotta, tans, blues, greens, old red and soft vintage shades were incorporated throughout. Our goal was to maintain the historic character of the residence combining design elements and materials considered classic in Southern California Spanish Colonial architecture. Natural fiber textiles, leathers and woven linens were the predominated upholstery choices. A 7000 square foot basement was added and furnished to provide a gym, Star Wars theater, game areas, spa area and a simulator for indoor golf and other sports. Antiques were selected throughout the world, fine art from major galleries, custom reproductions fabricated in the old-world style. Collectible carpets were selected for the reclaimed hardwood flooring in all the areas. An estancia and garden over the basement were created and furnished with old world designs and materials as reclaimed woods, terra cotta and French limestone flooring.

The Royale pool table is an excellent choice for the family that wants to have a wonderfully elegant dining table for visitors, and also a place for the family to engage in a little friendly competition!

The Home The Sequoia is making its official debut! This beautiful two-story, main level master suite home offers luxurious and energy efficient living that appeals to all. The open floor plan is a perfect fit for those who love to entertain, enjoy having family and friends visit or stay, or are seeking multi-generational living. This home exudes grandeur and elegance with its high ceilings, entry overlook, and two-story great room. The foyer beckons you to an expansive great room with an abundance of windows to view those beautiful Colorado sunsets. Adjoining is a spacious dining area and beautiful chef’s kitchen featuring designer cabinetry, wall ovens and gas range that are perfect for lovers of culinary – offering plenty of space to prepare all things food! Elegant arches, crisp colors in fixtures and finishes, granite and quartz, stunning wood floors and sophisticated design pull this masterpiece together. The finished basement welcomes many activities such as kids’ homework and play-time, family movie nights, watch parties for The Big Game and so much more! The Sequoia offers the ability to have two master suites for added space. The main-level location offers you a sanctuary of peace while adjoining to a luxurious bathroom area that includes two walk-in closets. The upper-level master retreat offers a spacious sitting area and five-piece bath, giving you that spa-like experience from your own home. The vibrant and unique architecture of this multigenerational home is composed of elegant touches and craftsmanship from the inside and out! With views of Pikes Peak, tree-lined sidewalks, and one of the best locations in eastern Colorado Springs, the premier neighborhood of Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch is the perfect frosting for this home. Don’t forget that all of our homes are HERS rated! Our Meridian Ranch homesites located in Stonebridge have convenient access to the newest neighborhood parks and amenities. Running and walking trails, access to the private lodge, and plentiful open spaces make Stonebridge a premier community in the region! Covington Homes at Stonebridge in Meridian Ranch is a smart choice for anyone seeking to live the ‘Good Life.’ The Builder Doing the right things, the right way - that is who we are. Creating a better way of living – that is what we do. Covington Homes is a local and family owned business committed to creating community. The Covington team continues to bring beautiful and exceptionally well-built homes and communities to eastern Colorado Springs and El Paso County with the hard work and dedication of our awardwinning team. As a result, our homes stand the test of time. At Covington Homes, we are focused on creating community. We are known as the builder with the highest level of customer care that can be found. Our homes are well thought out, fully planned and exceptionally executed. Covington Homes is currently building in District 20 at Wolf Ranch, in District 49 at Banning Lewis Ranch, in Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch and our newest community in North Carefree, the Gardens. The Interior Design The Sequoia is simple and understated luxury, topped off with modern farmhouse appeal. Designed with form, function and livability in mind, this amazing layout appeals to all. In a world that is ever-changing and hectic (social media, technology and increased demands), this home is designed to calm and sooth the soul once you step inside. Designer Grace Covington (GC Luxury Homes) brings eclectic farmhouse and modern design elements together to create a refined yet relaxed environment. The use of current colors, textiles, finishes and products blended with decor that reminds one of their favorite family memories, bring personality and warmth to this home. Meridian Ranch is a beautiful setting with amazing views of the mountains and Pikes Peak, so particular care was taken to select finishes and decor reminiscent of a peaceful country life. Muted tones of greige with surprising pops of color, creative use of woods, sleek lighting and bath fixtures, modern tile-work and the sprinkling of cottage textures throughout- this home is gorgeous! Tranquil luxury in a beautiful and vibrant community - the Sequoia is the perfect home!

The Home Jayden Homes introduces the modern European inspired Arrabelle. Specializing in home placement, Jayden Homes has expertly situated this six-car over/under garage home to maximize panoramic views. An open concept home, the Arrabelle welcomes you home with an enchanting courtyard with barrel ceiling and gas firepit. Main level highlights include a state-of-the-art kitchen with a walk-in pantry, oversized island and gourmet appliances. A floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace is the focal point of the great room and adjoining dining area with an indoor/outdoor bar top. The brick-walled master retreat opens to the covered deck. The 680 square foot covered deck is perfect for outdoor entertaining, with a fireplace and outdoor kitchen including a pizza oven and gas grill. A guest suite with private bath and huge mudroom with pet cubby are also located on the main level. Designed for recreation, the lower level is ideal for fun with friends and family with a large rec room, built-in soda bar, wine room with secret entry, and home theater. Two additional bedrooms and baths are located on the lower level. The Builder Celebrating over three decades in Colorado Springs, second-generation Jayden Homes builds award-winning homes in El Paso, Elbert and Douglas Counties. A quality-conscious, custom home builder, Jayden Homes places an emphasis on establishing a partnership with our clients. Recipient of the 2019, 2018 and 2016 Parade of Homes Industry Award of Excellence and the People’s Choice Award, Jayden Homes provides an extraordinary home building experience with a well-thought-out process that allows for less waste and a more efficient method to the construction of your custom home. Accredited by the Better Business Bureau and active members of the Housing and Building Association, Jayden Homes believes communication and education are key to a successful home building relationship. From selection of your homesite to perfect homesite placement to design and construction, Jayden Homes will walk together with you to provide a home worthy of our mantra New Memories Coming Soon. The Interior Design Old World charm meets modern inspiration in the casually elegant Arrabelle. The great room and dining room welcome the outdoors in with walls of windows and sliding glass doors accessing a full covered deck with outdoor kitchen and panoramic views. The great room showcases exquisite wood beams and gorgeous hardwood floors. Decorated with a light and airy decor, creamy neutral accents complement the richness of the home’s extensive tile and brick work. A mix of wood, stone and brick, show stopping light fixtures, and textured design elements are found throughout the Arrabelle. The finished lower level features a cozy theater room in a classic movie themed decor. Designed for entertaining, the rec room walks out to an outdoor living area with hot tub, and showcases a soda bar, game room and enclosed theater room. Be sure to look for memorable touches like the wine rack Murphy door at the entry into the wine room.

September, Date and Time TBD | Saratoga Blackwell Hillside Garden by Rebecca Dye and Hank Helbush of Design Focus International Each detail of this spectacular Saratoga landscape was considered with its hillside site in mind, from the size of the pool to the choice of antique stone masonry. Working closely with the owner, the landscape architects created a series of intimate garden spaces on three terraces. At the top of the site, entertainment is the name of the game where a bocce ball court and a fire pit take advantage of the site’s commanding views of the Santa Clara Valley. Below the house, a jewel-like pool captures the eye, with its intricate glass-tile and bronze water jets. At its end, a seating area and fireplace are shaded by an arbor covered with climbing roses, adding both fragrance and hue. Visitors descend a series of terraced stone stairs set into the hillside, punctuated by raised beds of strawberries, lavender, artichokes, and citrus. A formal parterre flower garden on the terrace is replanted periodically with colorful blooms in acknowledgment of the changing seasons. Photo by Lauren Devon

I had the opportunity to add my cabinets to a basement already full of unique rustic touches. The several doors shown are samples I made for the customer to choose from. His choice was weathered-look pine (frames are actually spruce or fir) which is achieved primarily by wire-brushing out the soft grain (a lot of work), then distressing with some other techniques, then staining with a light stain then immediately with a dark stain, then clear-coating. Project included the cabinets themselves, the floating shelves, the wine and coffee cup racks, and the trim around the game walls. Also includes the sofa tables (shown) and two barn doors made with new rough-sawn pine stained dark (not shown).

September, Date and Time TBD | Saratoga Blackwell Hillside Garden by Rebecca Dye and Hank Helbush of Design Focus International Each detail of this spectacular Saratoga landscape was considered with its hillside site in mind, from the size of the pool to the choice of antique stone masonry. Working closely with the owner, the landscape architects created a series of intimate garden spaces on three terraces. At the top of the site, entertainment is the name of the game where a bocce ball court and a fire pit take advantage of the site’s commanding views of the Santa Clara Valley. Below the house, a jewel-like pool captures the eye, with its intricate glass-tile and bronze water jets. At its end, a seating area and fireplace are shaded by an arbor covered with climbing roses, adding both fragrance and hue. Visitors descend a series of terraced stone stairs set into the hillside, punctuated by raised beds of strawberries, lavender, artichokes, and citrus. A formal parterre flower garden on the terrace is replanted periodically with colorful blooms in acknowledgment of the changing seasons. Photo by Lauren Devon

Now this is a basement bar! Eric at Chester County Kitchen & Bath along with the clients and the contractor ( Mike ) from NorthEast Construction Solutions designed this great basement bar and TV/ fireplace surround. Fieldstone Cabinetry in the Roseburg door with Slate finish was a perfect choice for this bar. The cabinetry color coordinates well with the rest of the basement especially the rustic shiplap used behind the TV and on the bar area. The granite is Titanium with a leathered finish and it’s a show stopper. Beverage fridges, beer meister, and plenty of bottle storage abound. This basement is ready for many football games and parties with friends and family.

With the "X" back design and the fresh Bar Harbor Blue finish, this Dining Chair is the perfect choice to add around the matching Dining Table and coordinating Bench! A light natural fabric covers the plush cushioned seat, and along with the gentle curve of the back, provides a very comfortable place to sit and chat over dinner and games. **SOLD AS A SET OF 2**

A fully reimagined lower level designed for entertaining, relaxing, and hosting in style. This vibrant renovation includes a luxe media lounge, a moody music room with a one-of-a-kind speaker wall, a playful guest suite, a sleek custom bar, game zone, and a spa-like bath. Bold finishes, cozy textures, and unexpected color choices come together in a layout made to impress.

two-tone R-BLADE™ motorized louvered pergola, allowing homeowners to use the space throughout the four seasons. This motorized louvered pergola satisfies their desire to entertain guests, allowing them to enjoy meals al fresco and socialize with friends year-round. Now, they can sip local beers at sunset while watching football or golf games on the TV outside. Product Choice Product: R-BLADE™ pergola – Motorized Louvered Roof Color: White pergola with dark gray/bronze louvers. Options: Accessory beam with fan, LED lighting, and weather sensors.

The Home The Sequoia is making its official debut! This beautiful two-story, main level master suite home offers luxurious and energy efficient living that appeals to all. The open floor plan is a perfect fit for those who love to entertain, enjoy having family and friends visit or stay, or are seeking multi-generational living. This home exudes grandeur and elegance with its high ceilings, entry overlook, and two-story great room. The foyer beckons you to an expansive great room with an abundance of windows to view those beautiful Colorado sunsets. Adjoining is a spacious dining area and beautiful chef’s kitchen featuring designer cabinetry, wall ovens and gas range that are perfect for lovers of culinary – offering plenty of space to prepare all things food! Elegant arches, crisp colors in fixtures and finishes, granite and quartz, stunning wood floors and sophisticated design pull this masterpiece together. The finished basement welcomes many activities such as kids’ homework and play-time, family movie nights, watch parties for The Big Game and so much more! The Sequoia offers the ability to have two master suites for added space. The main-level location offers you a sanctuary of peace while adjoining to a luxurious bathroom area that includes two walk-in closets. The upper-level master retreat offers a spacious sitting area and five-piece bath, giving you that spa-like experience from your own home. The vibrant and unique architecture of this multigenerational home is composed of elegant touches and craftsmanship from the inside and out! With views of Pikes Peak, tree-lined sidewalks, and one of the best locations in eastern Colorado Springs, the premier neighborhood of Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch is the perfect frosting for this home. Don’t forget that all of our homes are HERS rated! Our Meridian Ranch homesites located in Stonebridge have convenient access to the newest neighborhood parks and amenities. Running and walking trails, access to the private lodge, and plentiful open spaces make Stonebridge a premier community in the region! Covington Homes at Stonebridge in Meridian Ranch is a smart choice for anyone seeking to live the ‘Good Life.’ The Builder Doing the right things, the right way - that is who we are. Creating a better way of living – that is what we do. Covington Homes is a local and family owned business committed to creating community. The Covington team continues to bring beautiful and exceptionally well-built homes and communities to eastern Colorado Springs and El Paso County with the hard work and dedication of our awardwinning team. As a result, our homes stand the test of time. At Covington Homes, we are focused on creating community. We are known as the builder with the highest level of customer care that can be found. Our homes are well thought out, fully planned and exceptionally executed. Covington Homes is currently building in District 20 at Wolf Ranch, in District 49 at Banning Lewis Ranch, in Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch and our newest community in North Carefree, the Gardens. The Interior Design The Sequoia is simple and understated luxury, topped off with modern farmhouse appeal. Designed with form, function and livability in mind, this amazing layout appeals to all. In a world that is ever-changing and hectic (social media, technology and increased demands), this home is designed to calm and sooth the soul once you step inside. Designer Grace Covington (GC Luxury Homes) brings eclectic farmhouse and modern design elements together to create a refined yet relaxed environment. The use of current colors, textiles, finishes and products blended with decor that reminds one of their favorite family memories, bring personality and warmth to this home. Meridian Ranch is a beautiful setting with amazing views of the mountains and Pikes Peak, so particular care was taken to select finishes and decor reminiscent of a peaceful country life. Muted tones of greige with surprising pops of color, creative use of woods, sleek lighting and bath fixtures, modern tile-work and the sprinkling of cottage textures throughout- this home is gorgeous! Tranquil luxury in a beautiful and vibrant community - the Sequoia is the perfect home!

Now this is a basement bar! Eric at Chester County Kitchen & Bath along with the clients and the contractor ( Mike ) from NorthEast Construction Solutions designed this great basement bar and TV/ fireplace surround. Fieldstone Cabinetry in the Roseburg door with Slate finish was a perfect choice for this bar. The cabinetry color coordinates well with the rest of the basement especially the rustic shiplap used behind the TV and on the bar area. The granite is Titanium with a leathered finish and it’s a show stopper. Beverage fridges, beer meister, and plenty of bottle storage abound. This basement is ready for many football games and parties with friends and family.

At Archadeck of Nova Scotia we love any size project big or small. But, that being said, we have a soft spot for the projects that let us show off our talents! This Halifax house was no exception. The owners wanted a space to suit their outdoor lifestyle with materials to last far into the future. The choices were quite simple: stone veneer, Timbertech composite decking and glass railing. What better way to create that stability than with a solid foundation, concrete columns and decorative stone veneer? The posts were all wrapped with stone and match the retaining wall which was installed to help with soil retention and give the backyard more definition (it’s not too hard on the eyes either). A set of well-lit steps will guide you up the multi-level deck. The built-in planters soften the hardness of the Timbertech composite deck and provide a little visual relief. The two-tone aesthetic of the deck and railing are a stunning feature which plays up contrasting tones. From there it’s a game of musical chairs; we recommend the big round one on a September evening with a glass of wine and cozy blanket. We haven’t gotten there quite yet, but this property has an amazing view (you will see soon enough!). As to not spoil the view, we installed TImbertech composite railing with glass panels. This allows you to take in the surrounding sights while relaxing and not have those pesky balusters in the way. In any Canadian backyard, there is always the dilemma of dealing with mosquitoes and black flies! Our solution to this itchy problem is to incorporate a screen room as part of your design. This screen room in particular has space for dining and lounging around a fireplace, perfect for the colder evenings! Ahhh…there’s the view! From the top level of the deck you can really get an appreciation for Nova Scotia. Life looks pretty good from the top of a multi-level deck. Once again, we installed a composite and glass railing on the new composite deck to capture the scenery. What puts the cherry on top of this project is the balcony! One of the greatest benefits of composite decking and railing is that it can be curved to create beautiful soft edges. Imagine sipping your morning coffee and watching the sunrise over the water. If you want to know more about composite decking, railing or anything else you’ve seen that sparks your interest; give us a call! We’d love to hear from you.