About: Abandoned two years ago by a previous contractor, and overwhelmed by the challenges associated with building an updated porch respectful to this Queen Anne style home, J. Francis Company, LLC was referred to the customer by Maynes & Associates, Architects. Perched at the highest point on the North Side with a panoramic view is where Deb Mortillaro and Mike Gonze make their residence. Owners of the famous Dreadnought Wines and Palate Partners in the Strip District of Pittsburgh, Deb & Mike wanted a porch to use for entertaining & wine tasting parties. Design features include reuse of original porch footers, mahogany tongue & groove flooring, a railing system that compliments the original design yet complies with the code and features a clear coated Cyprus top rail. The original porch columns were most likely stone bases with wood posts that have been replaced with columns to enhance the updated look. The curved corner has been reproduced including a custom-built curved handrail. The whole porch comes together, tying in the red mahogany floor, Cyprus handrail, and stained bead board ceiling. The finished result is a breathtakingly beautiful wrap-around porch with ample room for guests and entertaining. Testimonial: "Our beloved porch had been taken down to be rebuilt for two years before we met the great folks at J. Francis Company. We knew this porch had great potential and all it would take was the right people to make it happen - ones with vision and great craftsmanship. In conjunction with our architect, Greg Maynes, Dave Myers of J. Francis Company guided this project along with tremendous skill and patience. His creative suggestions and practical thought made the process painless and exciting. The head carpenter JK was a marvel and added touches that made a spectacular difference. We use our home and especially this porch to entertain both clients and friends throughout the year. They all have been anxiously waiting to hear that it is done. A pleasant surprise will be theirs when they arrive."

Designed by Catherine Neitzey of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Fredericksburg, VA in collaboration with Heritage Contracting Services, this transitional style inspired two-finish kitchen design features Merillat Classic Tolani Maple Kona and Merillat Masterpiece Montresano with Aged Picket Fence finish cabinets. The bathroom also features Tolani Maple Kona cabinetry. The kitchen includes an Imagery Glass Mosaic 3x6 in Rain material Glass GM07412 tile backsplash. “We walked into Reico without an appointment, because 2 friends highly recommended them. We were warmly greeted by Cat, even without an appointment,” said the client. “Cat listened, and then pulled out samples as she guided us patiently through the process. She brought to our attention a cabinet larger than the actual area in our plan. We were able to adjust before it was ordered. Her guidance, suggestions and attention to our likes and dislikes proved to be invaluable.” “This project was remodeling a basement to add to a multi-generation home with an eye on creating a space to enjoy,” said Cat. “I hit it off with the client right away, meeting prior to selecting a contractor which changed the dynamic of our roles for the duration of the project.” The client added, “One of the best services Reico provided was computer generated visuals. It helped us see what the overall look would be. The kitchen and bathroom are beyond our expectations. We love the look and the flow!” “We changed the wall cabinet color as the space started to come together with all of the supporting selections made,” said Cat. “The Aged Picket Fence painted finish with its artisan random distressing contrasts the contemporary base cabinets and glass tile in the best way. It is such a warm version of today's popular white and gray color schemes. Added greens and textures really keep the space so warm and inviting.” Photos by Tim Snyder Photography.

Front porch renovation- a place to watch the kids play on the cul de sac! Lipman Architectural Photography
Example of a classic exterior home design in Chicago

Cabinetry provided by Castle Kitchens and Interiors. Photography by Jennifer Hayes
Inspiration for a mid-sized craftsman master white tile bathroom remodel in Denver with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets and granite countertops

Designed by Mark Sleith of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Falls Church, VA in collaboration with Mike Parkinson, this eclectic style kitchen remodel features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style in two finishes. The base cabinets all features the Norfolk Blue finish and the wall cabinet features a White finish. Kitchen countertops are engineered quartz by Q from MSI in the color Calacatta Trento. The tile backsplash behind the range features Artistic Tile with Blue Note Circles as well as a pot filler faucet. Said the client, "We are obsessed with our uber-chic new kitchen! Mark was a consummate professional throughout the entire process. I described my ideal space, and he designed something even better that I could have imagined. Not only did he help me create a luxe look within the confines of my budget, he stuck with me throughout every step of the project. Mark went above and beyond to create a design that captured my vision." Added Mark, "The client was amazing to work with, and had definite ideas of what she liked and did not like. She was open to suggestions, which led us to achieving her design goals. This created a great sense of accomplishment for me as I guided her through the overwhelming maze of remodeling. I am very pleased to have helped her take a not-so-great reason for a remodel and turn it around into an opportunity to create the kitchen she always wanted." Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

Designed by Mark Sleith of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Falls Church, VA in collaboration with Mike Parkinson, this eclectic style kitchen remodel features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style in two finishes. The base cabinets all features the Norfolk Blue finish and the wall cabinet features a White finish. Kitchen countertops are engineered quartz by Q from MSI in the color Calacatta Trento. The tile backsplash behind the range features Artistic Tile with Blue Note Circles as well as a pot filler faucet. Said the client, "We are obsessed with our uber-chic new kitchen! Mark was a consummate professional throughout the entire process. I described my ideal space, and he designed something even better that I could have imagined. Not only did he help me create a luxe look within the confines of my budget, he stuck with me throughout every step of the project. Mark went above and beyond to create a design that captured my vision." Added Mark, "The client was amazing to work with, and had definite ideas of what she liked and did not like. She was open to suggestions, which led us to achieving her design goals. This created a great sense of accomplishment for me as I guided her through the overwhelming maze of remodeling. I am very pleased to have helped her take a not-so-great reason for a remodel and turn it around into an opportunity to create the kitchen she always wanted." Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

Designed by Catherine Neitzey of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Fredericksburg, VA in collaboration with Heritage Contracting Services, this transitional style inspired two-finish kitchen design features Merillat Classic Tolani Maple Kona and Merillat Masterpiece Montresano with Aged Picket Fence finish cabinets. The bathroom also features Tolani Maple Kona cabinetry. The kitchen includes an Imagery Glass Mosaic 3x6 in Rain material Glass GM07412 tile backsplash. “We walked into Reico without an appointment, because 2 friends highly recommended them. We were warmly greeted by Cat, even without an appointment,” said the client. “Cat listened, and then pulled out samples as she guided us patiently through the process. She brought to our attention a cabinet larger than the actual area in our plan. We were able to adjust before it was ordered. Her guidance, suggestions and attention to our likes and dislikes proved to be invaluable.” “This project was remodeling a basement to add to a multi-generation home with an eye on creating a space to enjoy,” said Cat. “I hit it off with the client right away, meeting prior to selecting a contractor which changed the dynamic of our roles for the duration of the project.” The client added, “One of the best services Reico provided was computer generated visuals. It helped us see what the overall look would be. The kitchen and bathroom are beyond our expectations. We love the look and the flow!” “We changed the wall cabinet color as the space started to come together with all of the supporting selections made,” said Cat. “The Aged Picket Fence painted finish with its artisan random distressing contrasts the contemporary base cabinets and glass tile in the best way. It is such a warm version of today's popular white and gray color schemes. Added greens and textures really keep the space so warm and inviting.” Photos by Tim Snyder Photography.

Here are some practical tips for creating a beautiful, comfortable and thoughtful living room design. The living room in the house is the place where, as the name suggests, receives guests. However, the owners themselves relax here, spending time in front of the TV or a book, with drinks, pleasant conversation and other activities. Therefore, the living room should be the most comfortable place in your home. The place of the sofa in the design of the living room The sofa does not need to be placed in a draft. This means that it should not be on an imaginary line from window to door - if you drew a floor plan, it will just be easy to trace. 1. The sofa in front of the TV, diagonally from the door, is a great location. As if inviting you to sit down :) 2. Sofa near the door. A good solution if you often have overnight guests. 3. Corner sofa in the living room. Best placed in the farthest corner from the door. This will make the room look more spacious. Correct opening of the door in the living room. Inward or outward? Open inward or outward? There is no clear rule here, because everything depends on the layout and on the furniture placed. The main thing is that the door leaf opens freely and does not interfere with entering and exiting the room. Also, the door should not interfere with free access to the closet or dressing room. TV in living room size and location. Location. The TV is placed on the wall opposite to the sofa - this is the most logical and reasonable place for it in the living room. Moreover, the distance to it does not really matter: modern TV models can be placed close to the sofa. Cabinet or bracket? To your taste. The main thing is that the television zone looks neat and presentable. Provide in advance a cable channel in which all the wires and numerous sockets for the receiver, modem, set-top box, sound bar will hide. Nothing spoils a design like sticking wires! Height from the floor. It is optimal to place the TV 1 m from the floor to the middle of the screen - this is exactly the level of the eyes of a seated person. Diagonal size. If there is a financial opportunity, consider options from 50 inches - smaller screens look lonely and lonely on an empty wall. Living room furniture. Armchair. Often the chair becomes an accent item in the interior, then its shade, and sometimes its shape, differ from the rest of the furniture. When choosing a chair, be guided also by your habits: for example, it will be more convenient to climb up with your feet and read a book in an armchair with dimensions of 90x90 cm, and you can “just sit comfortably” in a fireplace chair with a high back, comfortable armrests and with a seat 80x80 cm. TV stand. Large TV stands are no longer as relevant as they used to be, when it was necessary to store a player, cassettes and discs there. For now, a console table or a narrow elegant pedestal is enough. Coffee table. Nice piece of furniture that creates a cozy atmosphere. Some models, if necessary, can be transformed into a more spacious table for receiving guests - however, finding comfortable and beautiful specimens is not easy, plus they usually cost a lot. Rack. An extremely useful type of furniture. :) Firstly, a large number of decor items can be beautifully placed on the rack. And secondly, it can also play the role of a light through partition, which divides the room into zones and does not select light at the same time. This is a very big plus for small apartments. Fireplace. Here we are talking about electric fireplaces. Some of them come with a humidifier and heated, so 3-in-1 models can be very helpful. Fireplace portals have different styles: classic, antique, modern. Inconsistency with the general style of the living room can greatly spoil the impression of the room, so be careful with creativity. Sizing is an important issue. A large wall with a high ceiling also needs a proportionate fireplace; in horror, a small portal will look lonely and ridiculous. What do you think about our new living room project? https://www.ferriss.co #ferriss #We_bring_objects_to_life #3drendering #architecture #San_Francisco

Designed by Catherine Neitzey of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Fredericksburg, VA in collaboration with Heritage Contracting Services, this transitional style inspired two-finish kitchen design features Merillat Classic Tolani Maple Kona and Merillat Masterpiece Montresano with Aged Picket Fence finish cabinets. The bathroom also features Tolani Maple Kona cabinetry. The kitchen includes an Imagery Glass Mosaic 3x6 in Rain material Glass GM07412 tile backsplash. “We walked into Reico without an appointment, because 2 friends highly recommended them. We were warmly greeted by Cat, even without an appointment,” said the client. “Cat listened, and then pulled out samples as she guided us patiently through the process. She brought to our attention a cabinet larger than the actual area in our plan. We were able to adjust before it was ordered. Her guidance, suggestions and attention to our likes and dislikes proved to be invaluable.” “This project was remodeling a basement to add to a multi-generation home with an eye on creating a space to enjoy,” said Cat. “I hit it off with the client right away, meeting prior to selecting a contractor which changed the dynamic of our roles for the duration of the project.” The client added, “One of the best services Reico provided was computer generated visuals. It helped us see what the overall look would be. The kitchen and bathroom are beyond our expectations. We love the look and the flow!” “We changed the wall cabinet color as the space started to come together with all of the supporting selections made,” said Cat. “The Aged Picket Fence painted finish with its artisan random distressing contrasts the contemporary base cabinets and glass tile in the best way. It is such a warm version of today's popular white and gray color schemes. Added greens and textures really keep the space so warm and inviting.” Photos by Tim Snyder Photography.

Entertaining and bringing people together is what this family is all about. Birthdays involve amazing cakes like you see on those TV shows, and groups of 30 people or more. Their ideal kitchen needed to accommodate that level of baking and hosting, but also support the daily rhythms of life. Our collaborative design was guided by Vastu Shastra, an ancient architectural tradition that predates feng shui. Based on Vedic traditions that harmonize human behavior with natural forces in the world, Vastu Shanstra basically suggests how to inhabit a place in the best way possible. The objectives were: -Relocate the entire kitchen so the home’s heat source (oven) is in the southeast -Incorporate symmetry into the overall design -Create a large space for entertaining – open and airy with lots of light -Simultaneously separate but join cooking and gathering spaces, allowing the cook to have a cook-specific zone that is still a part of any gathering -Individual storage for small appliances – making them easier to use -Simplicity – the space should be easy to use and maintain Design challenges we solved for: -Incorporate three load bearing points of the house -Provide structural support that was not obvious -Reconfigure kitchen utilities to another part of the home -Maximize storage space Design solutions and mindful innovations became an exciting motivation that drove the project: -Double-horseshoe design features two symmetrical islands that seat 18 people comfortably -Downdraft ventilation behind rangetop allows unobstructed views -Overhead beams for structural support -Equip nearby dining room with locking bar and wine cabinet -Roll-out appliance shelves on back of cooking island are powered for easy use -Symmetrical fridge and freezer columns separated by oven -Cabinets along back of the cooking area for everyday items -Tall pantry cabinet has four drawers for paperwork -Spacious walk-in storage pantry has a counter with power outlets -Coffee station has a trash can directly below for easy clean up -Two sinks and dishwashers for easy cleanup “A lot of relationships are built over food,” the homeowner told us. “This [kitchen] keeps our family close because we all love food. My kids sit in the kitchen all evening long every day – and I’m right there cooking. That’s life –to be together.” We also collaborated with the homeowners to remodel their primary bathroom, primary bedroom closet and an additional bathroom.

Entertaining and bringing people together is what this family is all about. Birthdays involve amazing cakes like you see on those TV shows, and groups of 30 people or more. Their ideal kitchen needed to accommodate that level of baking and hosting, but also support the daily rhythms of life. Our collaborative design was guided by Vastu Shastra, an ancient architectural tradition that predates feng shui. Based on Vedic traditions that harmonize human behavior with natural forces in the world, Vastu Shanstra basically suggests how to inhabit a place in the best way possible. The objectives were: -Relocate the entire kitchen so the home’s heat source (oven) is in the southeast -Incorporate symmetry into the overall design -Create a large space for entertaining – open and airy with lots of light -Simultaneously separate but join cooking and gathering spaces, allowing the cook to have a cook-specific zone that is still a part of any gathering -Individual storage for small appliances – making them easier to use -Simplicity – the space should be easy to use and maintain Design challenges we solved for: -Incorporate three load bearing points of the house -Provide structural support that was not obvious -Reconfigure kitchen utilities to another part of the home -Maximize storage space Design solutions and mindful innovations became an exciting motivation that drove the project: -Double-horseshoe design features two symmetrical islands that seat 18 people comfortably -Downdraft ventilation behind rangetop allows unobstructed views -Overhead beams for structural support -Equip nearby dining room with locking bar and wine cabinet -Roll-out appliance shelves on back of cooking island are powered for easy use -Symmetrical fridge and freezer columns separated by oven -Cabinets along back of the cooking area for everyday items -Tall pantry cabinet has four drawers for paperwork -Spacious walk-in storage pantry has a counter with power outlets -Coffee station has a trash can directly below for easy clean up -Two sinks and dishwashers for easy cleanup “A lot of relationships are built over food,” the homeowner told us. “This [kitchen] keeps our family close because we all love food. My kids sit in the kitchen all evening long every day – and I’m right there cooking. That’s life –to be together.” We also collaborated with the homeowners to remodel their primary bathroom, primary bedroom closet and an additional bathroom.

Custom Surface Solutions ( https://www.houzz.com/pro/csstile/__public) - Owner Craig Thompson. I consulted remotely (Round Rock, TX) with a DIY friend remotely (Morgan Hill, CA) on his kitchen backsplash, island toe kick, and countertop remodel project. He provided the labor and materials and I coached him remotely through the project. We collaborated on ideas and tile selections, installation methods and suggestions. A multi-colored 4" x 4" Fireclay tile was used to achieve the desired look. In addition, quartz countertops were installed to complete the kitchen. The project came out great as you can see! You can view the review @

This large living room is deceptive as the very large scale furniture makes it appear smaller than actually is. The existing large sofa is 12 ft wide. The client bought the existing furniture with the home, and they were all custom built. But she had no idea how to arrange the room and how to update the existing grey and mauve color scheme from the early 1980's. We suggested to keep the grey, but add in green and aqua based on our discussions of what colors she liked. We arranged the space into two separate seating areas and helped her select new art and accessories. We suggested she reinvent the french side chair in a blue and green color scheme with a greek key accent. And we helped our client select new fabric for the vintage acrylic chairs. The new look feels fresh and eclectic and fun. We also guided the client to the right upholsterer and seamstress and framing shop. Our client was thrilled.

Incorporated both French doors and Dutch doors, aiming to enhance the indoor-outdoor connection. The addition of custom decks and stairs from the bedroom to the laundry space and backyard suggests a functional and aesthetic upgrade to the outdoor spaces. The introduction of a custom brick step from the main bedroom french doors leads you to the outside seating area and shower that brings a rustic and coastal charming touch to the space. This not only improves accessibility but also creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Ginger's attention to detail is evident through the custom-designed copper light-up address signs. These signs not only serve a practical purpose but also add a distinctive and stylish element to the home's exterior. Similarly, the custom black iron lights guiding the pathways around the home contribute to the overall ambiance while providing safety and visibility. By combining functional design elements, thoughtful aesthetics, and custom craftsmanship, it seems like the firm and Ginger have worked together to transform the outdoor areas into a unique and appealing extension of the home. The combination of custom elements, carefully chosen materials, and Ginger Rabe Designs' expertise resulted in a truly remarkable overhaul of the Carlsbad Cottage. The attention to detail, blending of styles, and personalized touches throughout various spaces reflect a thoughtful and creative design approach.

Entertaining and bringing people together is what this family is all about. Birthdays involve amazing cakes like you see on those TV shows, and groups of 30 people or more. Their ideal kitchen needed to accommodate that level of baking and hosting, but also support the daily rhythms of life. Our collaborative design was guided by Vastu Shastra, an ancient architectural tradition that predates feng shui. Based on Vedic traditions that harmonize human behavior with natural forces in the world, Vastu Shanstra basically suggests how to inhabit a place in the best way possible. The objectives were: -Relocate the entire kitchen so the home’s heat source (oven) is in the southeast -Incorporate symmetry into the overall design -Create a large space for entertaining – open and airy with lots of light -Simultaneously separate but join cooking and gathering spaces, allowing the cook to have a cook-specific zone that is still a part of any gathering -Individual storage for small appliances – making them easier to use -Simplicity – the space should be easy to use and maintain Design challenges we solved for: -Incorporate three load bearing points of the house -Provide structural support that was not obvious -Reconfigure kitchen utilities to another part of the home -Maximize storage space Design solutions and mindful innovations became an exciting motivation that drove the project: -Double-horseshoe design features two symmetrical islands that seat 18 people comfortably -Downdraft ventilation behind rangetop allows unobstructed views -Overhead beams for structural support -Equip nearby dining room with locking bar and wine cabinet -Roll-out appliance shelves on back of cooking island are powered for easy use -Symmetrical fridge and freezer columns separated by oven -Cabinets along back of the cooking area for everyday items -Tall pantry cabinet has four drawers for paperwork -Spacious walk-in storage pantry has a counter with power outlets -Coffee station has a trash can directly below for easy clean up -Two sinks and dishwashers for easy cleanup “A lot of relationships are built over food,” the homeowner told us. “This [kitchen] keeps our family close because we all love food. My kids sit in the kitchen all evening long every day – and I’m right there cooking. That’s life –to be together.” We also collaborated with the homeowners to remodel their primary bathroom, primary bedroom closet and an additional bathroom.

Designed by Catherine Neitzey of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Fredericksburg, VA in collaboration with Heritage Contracting Services, this transitional style inspired two-finish kitchen design features Merillat Classic Tolani Maple Kona and Merillat Masterpiece Montresano with Aged Picket Fence finish cabinets. The bathroom also features Tolani Maple Kona cabinetry. The kitchen includes an Imagery Glass Mosaic 3x6 in Rain material Glass GM07412 tile backsplash. “We walked into Reico without an appointment, because 2 friends highly recommended them. We were warmly greeted by Cat, even without an appointment,” said the client. “Cat listened, and then pulled out samples as she guided us patiently through the process. She brought to our attention a cabinet larger than the actual area in our plan. We were able to adjust before it was ordered. Her guidance, suggestions and attention to our likes and dislikes proved to be invaluable.” “This project was remodeling a basement to add to a multi-generation home with an eye on creating a space to enjoy,” said Cat. “I hit it off with the client right away, meeting prior to selecting a contractor which changed the dynamic of our roles for the duration of the project.” The client added, “One of the best services Reico provided was computer generated visuals. It helped us see what the overall look would be. The kitchen and bathroom are beyond our expectations. We love the look and the flow!” “We changed the wall cabinet color as the space started to come together with all of the supporting selections made,” said Cat. “The Aged Picket Fence painted finish with its artisan random distressing contrasts the contemporary base cabinets and glass tile in the best way. It is such a warm version of today's popular white and gray color schemes. Added greens and textures really keep the space so warm and inviting.” Photos by Tim Snyder Photography.

Designed by Catherine Neitzey of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Fredericksburg, VA in collaboration with Heritage Contracting Services, this transitional style inspired two-finish kitchen design features Merillat Classic Tolani Maple Kona and Merillat Masterpiece Montresano with Aged Picket Fence finish cabinets. The bathroom also features Tolani Maple Kona cabinetry. The kitchen includes an Imagery Glass Mosaic 3x6 in Rain material Glass GM07412 tile backsplash. “We walked into Reico without an appointment, because 2 friends highly recommended them. We were warmly greeted by Cat, even without an appointment,” said the client. “Cat listened, and then pulled out samples as she guided us patiently through the process. She brought to our attention a cabinet larger than the actual area in our plan. We were able to adjust before it was ordered. Her guidance, suggestions and attention to our likes and dislikes proved to be invaluable.” “This project was remodeling a basement to add to a multi-generation home with an eye on creating a space to enjoy,” said Cat. “I hit it off with the client right away, meeting prior to selecting a contractor which changed the dynamic of our roles for the duration of the project.” The client added, “One of the best services Reico provided was computer generated visuals. It helped us see what the overall look would be. The kitchen and bathroom are beyond our expectations. We love the look and the flow!” “We changed the wall cabinet color as the space started to come together with all of the supporting selections made,” said Cat. “The Aged Picket Fence painted finish with its artisan random distressing contrasts the contemporary base cabinets and glass tile in the best way. It is such a warm version of today's popular white and gray color schemes. Added greens and textures really keep the space so warm and inviting.” Photos by Tim Snyder Photography.

This office space was open and very large but needed to be arranged for gatherings and separate work areas. The client did not want to wall it off and lose the openness. We suggested they have a room divider hung from the ceiling for a sense of space, but not the heaviness of a wall. We designed the divider and gave the client resources as to who could build it. And we helped the client select an eclectic mix of furniture that represented iconic pieces of style thought the years. We also guided the clients with lighting and art as well as floor finishes.

Joe Cotitta Epic Photography joecotitta@cox.net: Builder: Eagle Luxury Property
Huge elegant galley medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Phoenix with an undermount sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, paneled appliances, granite countertops, ceramic backsplash and two islands