Design: Christian B. Hedberg of CBH Design Photo: Margot Hartford © 2015 Houzz

Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgment as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work, and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Landscape Architect Design Workshop, Aspen, CO Landscape Contractor/ Installer Landscape Workshop, Carbondale, CO Stone Installer JD Masonry, Arvada, CO Stone Suppliers Coldspring, Cold Spring, MN Gallegos Corporation, Vail, CO Through a collective dialogue between landscape, architecture and interior design, a new vision reimagines the disturbed site into a livable landscape, emblematic of our American West. The residence – an ensemble of structures designed in a modern ranch vernacular – is effortlessly unified through layered, interconnected outdoor gathering spaces and regional materials that elaborates upon the experience of moving between structures, heightening and renewing one’s sense of place. Upon entering the courtyard, one is immediately aware of seamless and unfolding relationships between architecture and landscape through a sophisticated, regional palette of natural stone, water, and plants. Set upon architectural focal points, two perpendicular sandstone paths descend into the space and converge upon a monolithic, hand-carved granite fountain. The design of the fountain is purposefully quiet, both in its detailing and operation. The feature includes a recessed interior, allowing water to become still before it reaches the surface, with lightly cleft sides, allowing the water to delicately bounce as it descends into the geometric lower granite basin. The landscape architect’s selection of various stone material extends the tones of the home’s granite walls and contextual surroundings into the garden, but also be detailed in a manner that balances rural and modern qualities. The majority of the paving is constructed of rectilinear gray sandstone with a natural finish and snapped edges, laid in a staggered running bond organization. Throughout the garden, thoughtful attention was also given to the configuration and layout of terraces, pathways, and steps. In doing so, this ensured that the edges of the terrace and its interface to other elements were designed so that no “leftover” stone paver pieces would be found. Within the central courtyard, split-faced stone stairs descend into a rectilinear plinth of lawn, punctuated by a carved granite fire pit. Leveraging the property’s existing topographic relief, a shallow infinity-edge dipping pool abstracts the transparent and cavity-like pools found throughout the Rocky Mountains. The design purposefully achieves the illusion of a larger water feature with the distant pond and offers a refreshing recreational element. Containing the infinity edge, a designed granite escarpment emerges from the meadow, juxtaposing the geometric water feature and providing informal seating ledges. The site’s prior use required the landscape architect to incorporate a highly technical and complex sub-surface structural system. The initial geotechnical report identified the building envelopes rested on 12 feet of man-placed fill. Assuming a 1 percent settlement, the team faced concerns that the terraces would settle up to 12 inches. In response, a grid of structural micro-piles provides the necessary foundation for the construction of terraces immediately outside of the architecture, under the water features and site walls. The solution enabled the crisp detailing and design resolution of the architectural structures to seamlessly connect with the horizontal stone terraces.

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

Inspiration for a timeless multicolored tile home design remodel in Denver

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

Mathew and his team at Cummings Architects have a knack for being able to see the perfect vision for a property. They specialize in identifying a building’s missing elements and crafting designs that simultaneously encompass the large scale, master plan and the myriad details that make a home special. For this Winchester home, the vision included a variety of complementary projects that all came together into a single architectural composition. Starting with the exterior, the single-lane driveway was extended and a new carriage garage that was designed to blend with the overall context of the existing home. In addition to covered parking, this building also provides valuable new storage areas accessible via large, double doors that lead into a connected work area. For the interior of the house, new moldings on bay windows, window seats, and two paneled fireplaces with mantles dress up previously nondescript rooms. The family room was extended to the rear of the house and opened up with the addition of generously sized, wall-to-wall windows that served to brighten the space and blur the boundary between interior and exterior. The family room, with its intimate sitting area, cozy fireplace, and charming breakfast table (the best spot to enjoy a sunlit start to the day) has become one of the family’s favorite rooms, offering comfort and light throughout the day. In the kitchen, the layout was simplified and changes were made to allow more light into the rear of the home via a connected deck with elongated steps that lead to the yard and a blue-stone patio that’s perfect for entertaining smaller, more intimate groups. From driveway to family room and back out into the yard, each detail in this beautiful design complements all the other concepts and details so that the entire plan comes together into a unified vision for a spectacular home. Photos By: Eric Roth

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

Restoring a West Town Greystone Windy City Painters | Chicago’s Historic Home Specialists In the heart of West Town, Chicago’s iconic Greystones require more than just a standard paint job—they require a preservation-minded approach. Windy City Painters recently completed a full exterior restoration of this stunning vintage property, balancing historical integrity with modern performance. The Challenge Vintage Chicago construction presents unique obstacles, including aging plaster, intricate original woodwork, and the wear-and-tear of our unpredictable Lake Michigan climate. Our client needed a local partner who understood how to prep these surfaces for longevity without masking the architectural details that make the neighborhood so desirable. Our Process Detailed Assessment: We began with a thorough consultation to identify substrate health and material requirements. Meticulous Preparation: Extensive surface prep is the secret to a professional finish. We focused on strategic priming to ensure maximum adhesion. Specialized Application: Using premium, weather-resistant products, we applied finishes designed to withstand Chicago’s freeze-thaw cycles. Heritage Focus: Every brushstroke was intended to honor the home’s original character while providing a contemporary, durable aesthetic. Why West Town Homeowners Trust Windy City Painters Selecting a local specialist over a national chain ensures your project complies with Chicago building standards and honors our city’s specific architectural styles. We provide transparent pricing, realistic timelines, and the peace of mind that comes with proper licensing and insurance. Services Provided: Interior & Exterior Painting Metal Refinishing (Fences, Railings & Ornamental Detail) Drywall & Plaster Repair Vintage Woodwork Restoration Ready to elevate your West Town property? Visit our website at www.windypainters.com to request a professional estimate or message us directly here on Houzz to discuss your next project. #ChicagoDesign #WestTown #HouzzPro #GreystoneRestoration #ChicagoPainters #HistoricalPreservation #HomeRenovation #CurbAppeal

The Pros and Cons of Fix and Flip Real Estate Investment Last week, we covered The Pros and Cons of Buy and Hold Real Estate Investment for rental property investors. This week, we want to talk about the other most common type of real estate investment: “fix and flip.” The Appeal of House Flipping We all love the house flipping shows on HGTV and other reality channels. They’re great and they make the prospect of buying, renovating and flipping homes for big profits seem super sexy and fun. However, any experienced real estate investor will tell you it’s not quite as easy as they make it look. There’s a lot of work that goes into a successful fix and flip investment. The basic premise of a fix and flip investment is pretty simple. You buy a property, usually one that needs some work and is available at a great price. You renovate the property, making the necessary repairs and upgrades to maximize its resale value. Then, you sell the property on the open market for the highest possible price. You get in and out as quickly as possible. Full-time flippers will move from property to property or will have multiple properties being worked on at the same time. Rather than the “buy and hold” strategy where you keep the house while earning rental income and equity over time, you are looking for the quick sale to earn your profits. If you are going to explore house flipping—whether as a full-time career or just a side hustle—you will want to know exactly what you are getting into. That is why we are going to cover the pros and cons of fix and flip real estate investment in this article. The Pros of Fix and Flip Here are some of the pros of fix and flip investing: Faster Return on Investment—The biggest appeal of fix and flip investing is that it gives you a quicker return on investment. Buy and hold will take you longer to see your ROI. House flipping allows you to see your full profit (hopefully) as soon as the house sells. The average house flip for an experienced investor is around six months. It may take longer for a first-timer who is just learning how to do certain things. Fairly Safe Investment—As long as you do all your projections and calculations carefully and avoid any major problems along the way, house flipping is a relatively safe investment strategy compared to something as turbulent as the stock market. Real estate markets are generally predictable and the short time frame of a flip helps you avoid losses if the property happens to depreciate over a longer period of time. Exciting—There is a reason why there are so many reality shows based around flipping and none based on buy and hold investing. It’s an exciting process to buy a home, gut it and completely renovate it. Then, you get the ultimate reward of selling it and collecting the profits—as long as you do things right. The Cons of Fix and Flip Here are some of the cons of fix and flip investing: Upfront Expenses—A house flip will require a lot of upfront expenses. We’re not only talking about financing the house itself, but all the renovation costs and other expenses involved in the flip. You are laying out all that money at the beginning and only seeing your returns when the property sells. This can create cash flow issues and stress if you fall being schedule or go above your initial budget. Taxes—House flips will usually create dramatic swings in income year over year, and that can increase your tax bill. You have to pace things correctly to take advantage of specific capital gains tax rules. Capital gains taxes are higher on any property owned less than a year, so you have to find that balance of how long you own any specific investment properties and how long it takes to complete the renovation and sale. Before you get too deep into fix and flip investing, you will want to talk with your tax advisor to make sure you have the right plan in place. Surprises—All real estate investment is susceptible to surprises. You don’t always know what lies behind the walls until you start the renovation process. You cannot plan for everything as a real estate investor, but you have to be prepared for anything. It is a good idea to add some wiggle room in your budget and overestimate your renovation expenses/timeline to cover any surprises that may come up. These are some of the biggest pros and cons of fix and flip real estate investment. Of course, there are other things you need to know as an investor, so be sure and do your homework in order to get the most out of your investment portfolio. Both fix and flip and buy and hold strategies can be highly lucrative if you do things right. There are no wrong answers, but there are wrong ways of doing things if you truly want to be successful in this field. If you are looking for great investment properties to fix and flip, join the exclusive PropertyLark home buyers’ network. If you qualify, you’ll have access to our exclusive off-market deals and analytics tools that will help you identify the best investments and get the highest possible ROI. Fill out the contact form and questionnaire on the PropertyLark buyer’s site to apply!

Photos courtesy of Jesse Young, Jesse Young Property and Real Estate Photography
Inspiration for a large timeless u-shaped dark wood floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Seattle with a farmhouse sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, beige backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgment as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work, and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Landscape Architect Design Workshop, Aspen, CO Landscape Contractor/ Installer Landscape Workshop, Carbondale, CO Stone Installer JD Masonry, Arvada, CO Stone Suppliers Coldspring, Cold Spring, MN Gallegos Corporation, Vail, CO Through a collective dialogue between landscape, architecture and interior design, a new vision reimagines the disturbed site into a livable landscape, emblematic of our American West. The residence – an ensemble of structures designed in a modern ranch vernacular – is effortlessly unified through layered, interconnected outdoor gathering spaces and regional materials that elaborates upon the experience of moving between structures, heightening and renewing one’s sense of place. Upon entering the courtyard, one is immediately aware of seamless and unfolding relationships between architecture and landscape through a sophisticated, regional palette of natural stone, water, and plants. Set upon architectural focal points, two perpendicular sandstone paths descend into the space and converge upon a monolithic, hand-carved granite fountain. The design of the fountain is purposefully quiet, both in its detailing and operation. The feature includes a recessed interior, allowing water to become still before it reaches the surface, with lightly cleft sides, allowing the water to delicately bounce as it descends into the geometric lower granite basin. The landscape architect’s selection of various stone material extends the tones of the home’s granite walls and contextual surroundings into the garden, but also be detailed in a manner that balances rural and modern qualities. The majority of the paving is constructed of rectilinear gray sandstone with a natural finish and snapped edges, laid in a staggered running bond organization. Throughout the garden, thoughtful attention was also given to the configuration and layout of terraces, pathways, and steps. In doing so, this ensured that the edges of the terrace and its interface to other elements were designed so that no “leftover” stone paver pieces would be found. Within the central courtyard, split-faced stone stairs descend into a rectilinear plinth of lawn, punctuated by a carved granite fire pit. Leveraging the property’s existing topographic relief, a shallow infinity-edge dipping pool abstracts the transparent and cavity-like pools found throughout the Rocky Mountains. The design purposefully achieves the illusion of a larger water feature with the distant pond and offers a refreshing recreational element. Containing the infinity edge, a designed granite escarpment emerges from the meadow, juxtaposing the geometric water feature and providing informal seating ledges. The site’s prior use required the landscape architect to incorporate a highly technical and complex sub-surface structural system. The initial geotechnical report identified the building envelopes rested on 12 feet of man-placed fill. Assuming a 1 percent settlement, the team faced concerns that the terraces would settle up to 12 inches. In response, a grid of structural micro-piles provides the necessary foundation for the construction of terraces immediately outside of the architecture, under the water features and site walls. The solution enabled the crisp detailing and design resolution of the architectural structures to seamlessly connect with the horizontal stone terraces.

Mathew and his team at Cummings Architects have a knack for being able to see the perfect vision for a property. They specialize in identifying a building’s missing elements and crafting designs that simultaneously encompass the large scale, master plan and the myriad details that make a home special. For this Winchester home, the vision included a variety of complementary projects that all came together into a single architectural composition. Starting with the exterior, the single-lane driveway was extended and a new carriage garage that was designed to blend with the overall context of the existing home. In addition to covered parking, this building also provides valuable new storage areas accessible via large, double doors that lead into a connected work area. For the interior of the house, new moldings on bay windows, window seats, and two paneled fireplaces with mantles dress up previously nondescript rooms. The family room was extended to the rear of the house and opened up with the addition of generously sized, wall-to-wall windows that served to brighten the space and blur the boundary between interior and exterior. The family room, with its intimate sitting area, cozy fireplace, and charming breakfast table (the best spot to enjoy a sunlit start to the day) has become one of the family’s favorite rooms, offering comfort and light throughout the day. In the kitchen, the layout was simplified and changes were made to allow more light into the rear of the home via a connected deck with elongated steps that lead to the yard and a blue-stone patio that’s perfect for entertaining smaller, more intimate groups. From driveway to family room and back out into the yard, each detail in this beautiful design complements all the other concepts and details so that the entire plan comes together into a unified vision for a spectacular home. Photos By: Eric Roth

Stone Stairs by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product: Antique Stone Stairs Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Stairs are one of the most basic indoors and outdoors architectural feature that are a must both functionally and esthetically speaking. In landscaping beside their obvious usefulness in helping you access various elevations on your property they will also allow you to divide and breakup various section of your outdoor design, they'll help you redirect your line of sight to specific focal points of interest and by themselves can make a powerful design statement that symbolizes hospitality and openness towards guests. When creating staircases out of our antique stone building elements we focus on waring all of those hats that your stairs need to ware in order to serve their intended multipurpose role. Most don't dwell or even think twice about this seemingly rudimentary and basic building element that on its surface seems unchanged from the days of the Roman empire. However we've identified various stairs designs and cataloged over 30 divers stone stairs type that forms the bulk of our stone stair library. Here are a few that are noteworthy of mentioning: 1- The thick hexagon staggered stepping stone stairs ideal for any ancient, whimsical, 17th century English or Asiatic landscaping themes you may be using in your outdoors. 2- The 3" and 5" Thick foundation slab slices that are massive cut-out chunks from salvaged cornerstone foundation blocks that used to be laid underneath old farmhouses and building structures in medieval and renaissance Europe before the invention of modern cement and steel foundations. 3- The double stacked antique reclaimed limestone stair edge and risers. All made out of our various lines of very hard antique limestone paves that defies all weather types from sub-Saharan to Tundra climates and perfect for both indoors and outdoors applications. 4- Full blocked 8" thick (or more) )stairs with both the squared backs and the slanted backs ideal for the outdoors or for creating a self-supporting structure that will allow architects and designer an extended range of design options and usages. 5- Limestone stairs with Encaustic Tile raisers ideal for any coastal Spanish or Italian style home. 6- Thick and solid single pieced bull-nosed stairs and raisers flanked by wrist high limestone balustrades when used on the outdoor entryway staircase of your home. All of those types of stairs and countless many others will play an invisible role in defining the character and feel of your future home.

Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgment as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work, and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Landscape Architect Design Workshop, Aspen, CO Landscape Contractor/ Installer Landscape Workshop, Carbondale, CO Stone Installer JD Masonry, Arvada, CO Stone Suppliers Coldspring, Cold Spring, MN Gallegos Corporation, Vail, CO Through a collective dialogue between landscape, architecture and interior design, a new vision reimagines the disturbed site into a livable landscape, emblematic of our American West. The residence – an ensemble of structures designed in a modern ranch vernacular – is effortlessly unified through layered, interconnected outdoor gathering spaces and regional materials that elaborates upon the experience of moving between structures, heightening and renewing one’s sense of place. Upon entering the courtyard, one is immediately aware of seamless and unfolding relationships between architecture and landscape through a sophisticated, regional palette of natural stone, water, and plants. Set upon architectural focal points, two perpendicular sandstone paths descend into the space and converge upon a monolithic, hand-carved granite fountain. The design of the fountain is purposefully quiet, both in its detailing and operation. The feature includes a recessed interior, allowing water to become still before it reaches the surface, with lightly cleft sides, allowing the water to delicately bounce as it descends into the geometric lower granite basin. The landscape architect’s selection of various stone material extends the tones of the home’s granite walls and contextual surroundings into the garden, but also be detailed in a manner that balances rural and modern qualities. The majority of the paving is constructed of rectilinear gray sandstone with a natural finish and snapped edges, laid in a staggered running bond organization. Throughout the garden, thoughtful attention was also given to the configuration and layout of terraces, pathways, and steps. In doing so, this ensured that the edges of the terrace and its interface to other elements were designed so that no “leftover” stone paver pieces would be found. Within the central courtyard, split-faced stone stairs descend into a rectilinear plinth of lawn, punctuated by a carved granite fire pit. Leveraging the property’s existing topographic relief, a shallow infinity-edge dipping pool abstracts the transparent and cavity-like pools found throughout the Rocky Mountains. The design purposefully achieves the illusion of a larger water feature with the distant pond and offers a refreshing recreational element. Containing the infinity edge, a designed granite escarpment emerges from the meadow, juxtaposing the geometric water feature and providing informal seating ledges. The site’s prior use required the landscape architect to incorporate a highly technical and complex sub-surface structural system. The initial geotechnical report identified the building envelopes rested on 12 feet of man-placed fill. Assuming a 1 percent settlement, the team faced concerns that the terraces would settle up to 12 inches. In response, a grid of structural micro-piles provides the necessary foundation for the construction of terraces immediately outside of the architecture, under the water features and site walls. The solution enabled the crisp detailing and design resolution of the architectural structures to seamlessly connect with the horizontal stone terraces.

Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgment as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work, and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Landscape Architect Design Workshop, Aspen, CO Landscape Contractor/ Installer Landscape Workshop, Carbondale, CO Stone Installer JD Masonry, Arvada, CO Stone Suppliers Coldspring, Cold Spring, MN Gallegos Corporation, Vail, CO Through a collective dialogue between landscape, architecture and interior design, a new vision reimagines the disturbed site into a livable landscape, emblematic of our American West. The residence – an ensemble of structures designed in a modern ranch vernacular – is effortlessly unified through layered, interconnected outdoor gathering spaces and regional materials that elaborates upon the experience of moving between structures, heightening and renewing one’s sense of place. Upon entering the courtyard, one is immediately aware of seamless and unfolding relationships between architecture and landscape through a sophisticated, regional palette of natural stone, water, and plants. Set upon architectural focal points, two perpendicular sandstone paths descend into the space and converge upon a monolithic, hand-carved granite fountain. The design of the fountain is purposefully quiet, both in its detailing and operation. The feature includes a recessed interior, allowing water to become still before it reaches the surface, with lightly cleft sides, allowing the water to delicately bounce as it descends into the geometric lower granite basin. The landscape architect’s selection of various stone material extends the tones of the home’s granite walls and contextual surroundings into the garden, but also be detailed in a manner that balances rural and modern qualities. The majority of the paving is constructed of rectilinear gray sandstone with a natural finish and snapped edges, laid in a staggered running bond organization. Throughout the garden, thoughtful attention was also given to the configuration and layout of terraces, pathways, and steps. In doing so, this ensured that the edges of the terrace and its interface to other elements were designed so that no “leftover” stone paver pieces would be found. Within the central courtyard, split-faced stone stairs descend into a rectilinear plinth of lawn, punctuated by a carved granite fire pit. Leveraging the property’s existing topographic relief, a shallow infinity-edge dipping pool abstracts the transparent and cavity-like pools found throughout the Rocky Mountains. The design purposefully achieves the illusion of a larger water feature with the distant pond and offers a refreshing recreational element. Containing the infinity edge, a designed granite escarpment emerges from the meadow, juxtaposing the geometric water feature and providing informal seating ledges. The site’s prior use required the landscape architect to incorporate a highly technical and complex sub-surface structural system. The initial geotechnical report identified the building envelopes rested on 12 feet of man-placed fill. Assuming a 1 percent settlement, the team faced concerns that the terraces would settle up to 12 inches. In response, a grid of structural micro-piles provides the necessary foundation for the construction of terraces immediately outside of the architecture, under the water features and site walls. The solution enabled the crisp detailing and design resolution of the architectural structures to seamlessly connect with the horizontal stone terraces.

Looking for a nice clean crown molding, but what something different? These homeowners did just that with a simple clean flat molding applied to the wall and ceiling to create this look.