Sound Design Marks 20 Years with ELAN-Centered Showroom By RS Staff March 12,2013 Marking 20 years of success and growth in Texas as a custom installation firm, Sound Design is opening a new state-of-the-art home technology showroom in the resort community of Horseshoe Bay, TX on April 1. Sound Design showroom The new 4,500 square foot showroom puts the ELAN g! Entertainment and Control System on the main stage, according to owner Chris Bean, who wants to make sure that it is the first thing clients experience when they walk into the entrance living room. “What better way to celebrate our 20th year as Texas’ premier custom installation firm than to open a beautiful new showroom with all the latest home technologies?” Bean said. “We’ve learned a lot over the years, and our experience helped us design the new showroom in a way that presents a relaxing, luxurious ambience that appeals to our local clientele. We used the best-of-the-best in every category, from the Runco 63-inch plasma TV framed and hidden by a VisionArt motorized art print to the ultra-high-end CAT MBX Sequoia speakers and of course the ELAN g! System. "We have another showroom in Lakeway, TX where we’ve been showing off ELAN g! since the system debuted in 2010. When we first got into custom home installation, multi-room audio and video systems were the biggest client request. Today, we are increasingly finding that homeowners and homebuyers are as interested in complete home control as they are in their TVs and music, if not more so. Expandable, easy to use control systems that utilize mobile devices and simplify home living are going to be major sales drivers of the future for both the CI industry and the home building industry. ELAN g! System The showroom offers a tour of top-of-the-line home electronics, starting with the entrance living room that features AV and lighting control from an ELAN TS10 10-inch in-wall touchscreen, an ELAN TS2 in-wall touchscreen and an ELAN HR2 handheld remote. The system distributes audio and video content to a system consisting of a Runco V63 63-inch plasma display, a Planar 2x3 Matrix Wall with six 46-inch panels, a Planar Mosaic wall with four 46-inch panels and four 15-inch square panels, a two-channel audio system that uses two 7-foot-tall CAT MBX Sequoia’s, and a surround system that includes an Integra DTR 50.4 receiver, Newport speakers and two Sunfire HRS-12 subwoofers. “Many of our clients are tech-savvy homeowners who have become mobile tech enthusiasts through their everyday interactions with iPhones and tablets, and they want that same instant satisfaction to apply to their household media and home functions. We’re using the ELAN g! System to show them that home control can be just as easy as using an iPhone,” Bean said. “Just a few years ago, the most common client request was for an amazing home theater to enjoy the newest DVDs or Blu-Rays. Consumer culture is now moving beyond just high-quality audio and video and our clients are demanding easy, fast, total control of everything in the home from their touch panels, smartphone or tablet. ELAN g! does it in spades, and for many clients it’s simply the best choice out there.” The most unique part of the new showroom is the 640 square foot Simulation Room. Featuring AboutGolf’s newest three-projector continuous curve screen golf simulator, a LaserShot shooting simulator with five-channel surround and 30 competitive games for two players, and a VRX iMotion triple-LCD display driving & flight simulator, this room is literally a virtual playground. Bean wanted to show that he’s an outside-the-box thinker, and that, in this resort community, there is a custom installation professional that can bring dreams to life. “The Simulation Room is a step forward for CI showroom design and for our company, and it allows us to open the imagination of our clients to show them that anything is possible. Homeowners in Horseshoe Bay are all about recreation and a luxury lifestyle so we wanted to show the unique ways people could enhance their home’s fun factor. From controlling lighting, heating and surveillance cameras on an iPhone to a hyper-realistic golf simulator that makes you feel like you’re really teeing off on the course, our Horseshoe Bay showroom is as state-of-the-art as it can be.” Sound Design also built a commercial quality home theater that uses a Display Development HD3 projector, a 184-inch Stewart Filmscreen Luxus Delux screen, A Kaleidescape M300 player connected to a Kaleidescape CinemaOne server in the lobby, a Theta Casablanca III preamp/processor, Theta Compli-blu Blu-ray player, a PrimaCinema server, and a bevy of California Audio Technology speakers, subwoofers and amplifiers.

Conceived by architect Rafael Viñoly—432 Park Avenue is the tallest residential skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. This apartment designed by John Beckmann and his design firm Axis Mundi has some of the most breathtaking views in Manhattan. Known for their glamorous low-slung aesthetic, Axis Mundi took the challenge to design the residence for an American client living in China with a family of four, and an important art collection (including the likes of Cy Twombly, Gerhard Richter, Susan Frecon, Vik Muniz and Lisette Schumacher, among others). In the dining room, a Bocci “28 Chandelier” hangs above an intricate marble and brass table by Henge, with ceramics by John Born. Entering the main living area, a monumental “Let it Be” sectional from Poltrona Frau sits on a silver custom-designed Joseph Carini wool and silk rug. A ‘Surface” coffee table designed by Vincent Van Duysen and “Fulgens” armchairs in saddle leather by Antonio Citterio for B&B Italia create the penultimate space for entertaining. The sensuous red library features custom-designed bookshelves in burnished brass and walnut, as a “Wing Sofa” in red velvet from Flexform floats atop a “Ponti” area rug from the Rug Company. “JJ Chairs” in Mongolian lamb fur from B&B Italia add a rock and roll swagger to the space. The kitchen accentuates the grey marble flooring and all-white color palette, with the exception of a few light wood and marble details. A dramatic pendant in hand-burnished brass, designed by Henge, hovers above the kitchen island, while a floating marble counter spans the window opening. It is a serene spot to enjoy a morning cappuccino while pondering the ever-changing skyline of the Metropolis. In a counterintuitive move, Beckmann decided to make the gallery dark by finishing the walls in a smoked lacquered plaster with hints of mica, which add sparkle and glitter. John Beckmann made sure to include extravagant fabrics from Christopher Hyland and a deft mix of textures and colors to the design. In the master bedroom is a wall-length headboard system in leather and velvet panels from Poliform, with luxurious bedding from Frette. Dupre Lafon lounge chairs in a buttery leather rest on a custom golden silk carpet by Joseph Carini, while a pair of parchment bedside lamps by Jean Michel Frank complete the design. The facade is treated with an LED lighting system which changes colors and can be controlled by the client with their iPhone from the street. Design: John Beckmann, with Hannah LaSota Photography: Durston Saylor Contractor: Cardinal Construction Size: 4000 sf © Axis Mundi Design LLC

Penza Bailey Architects was contacted to update the main house to suit the next generation of owners, and also expand and renovate the guest apartment. The renovations included a new mudroom and playroom to accommodate the couple and their three very active boys, creating workstations for the boys’ various activities, and renovating several bathrooms. The awkwardly tall vaulted ceilings in the existing great room and dining room were scaled down with lowered tray ceilings, and a new fireplace focal point wall was incorporated in the great room. In addition to the renovations to the focal point of the home, the Owner’s pride and joy includes the new billiard room, transformed from an underutilized living room. The main feature is a full wall of custom cabinetry that hides an electronically secure liquor display that rises out of the cabinet at the push of an iPhone button. In an unexpected request, a new grilling area was designed to accommodate the owner’s gas grill, charcoal grill and smoker for more cooking and entertaining options. This home is definitely ready to accommodate a new generation of hosting social gatherings. Mitch Allen Photography

TruAudio. This whole-home audio system allows for up to 8 different streams to be played to 8 different zones at the same time. Savant video distribution, which allows for up to 8 video feeds to be switched to 6 different TVs. Lutron wireless lighting control brings scene control to various rooms. Whole-home control is also by Savant, which allows users to control the home’s systems, in-home or remotely, from any mobile device including iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android devices. TYM’s work allows all of the smart home technology and entertainment systems to be integrated and controlled by a single app. Interior design by Lindsey Walker, lwdesign1016@gmail.com Photo by: Brad Montgomery

A truly luxurious contemporary-age top grain white leather sectional sofa with iPhone speakers stereo adapter in the corner. Simply put your iPhone in the built-in dock and you automatically connect it to the speakers built-in the sofa to play the music you have stored on it. Compatible with iPhone 4. If you are looking for comfort and entertainment this L shape sectional sofa is the piece for you. Features: Off white colored leather upholstery exudes a contemporary look Plush cushioning lends ultimate comfort when sitting or lounging Tufted seats add charm and elegance Stainless steel angular legs give the sectional a distinctive look Sturdy construction ensures long-lasting use High quality leather match material in the back maintains durability A Contemporary addition to your living space Sectional includes 3-seater sofa and chaise Dimensions: 3 Seater Sofa: W89" x D39" x H33" Chaise:W39" x D87" x H33" Overall: W128" x D87" x H33"

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

Conceived by architect Rafael Viñoly—432 Park Avenue is the tallest residential skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. This apartment designed by John Beckmann and his design firm Axis Mundi has some of the most breathtaking views in Manhattan. Known for their glamorous low-slung aesthetic, Axis Mundi took the challenge to design the residence for an American client living in China with a family of four, and an important art collection (including the likes of Cy Twombly, Gerhard Richter, Susan Frecon, Vik Muniz and Lisette Schumacher, among others). In the dining room, a Bocci “28 Chandelier” hangs above an intricate marble and brass table by Henge, with ceramics by John Born. Entering the main living area, a monumental “Let it Be” sectional from Poltrona Frau sits on a silver custom-designed Joseph Carini wool and silk rug. A ‘Surface” coffee table designed by Vincent Van Duysen and “Fulgens” armchairs in saddle leather by Antonio Citterio for B&B Italia create the penultimate space for entertaining. The sensuous red library features custom-designed bookshelves in burnished brass and walnut, as a “Wing Sofa” in red velvet from Flexform floats atop a “Ponti” area rug from the Rug Company. “JJ Chairs” in Mongolian lamb fur from B&B Italia add a rock and roll swagger to the space. The kitchen accentuates the grey marble flooring and all-white color palette, with the exception of a few light wood and marble details. A dramatic pendant in hand-burnished brass, designed by Henge, hovers above the kitchen island, while a floating marble counter spans the window opening. It is a serene spot to enjoy a morning cappuccino while pondering the ever-changing skyline of the Metropolis. In a counterintuitive move, Beckmann decided to make the gallery dark by finishing the walls in a smoked lacquered plaster with hints of mica, which add sparkle and glitter. John Beckmann made sure to include extravagant fabrics from Christopher Hyland and a deft mix of textures and colors to the design. In the master bedroom is a wall-length headboard system in leather and velvet panels from Poliform, with luxurious bedding from Frette. Dupre Lafon lounge chairs in a buttery leather rest on a custom golden silk carpet by Joseph Carini, while a pair of parchment bedside lamps by Jean Michel Frank complete the design. The facade is treated with an LED lighting system which changes colors and can be controlled by the client with their iPhone from the street. Design: John Beckmann, with Hannah LaSota Photography: Durston Saylor Renderings: 3DS Contractor: Cardinal Construction Size: 4000 sf © Axis Mundi Design LLC

His and Her's master vanities. Towers on vanity are recessed into the wall. I have found that most cosmetics and beauty products are 3" in diameter or less. All we really need is a few visible shelves to store our tiny items as opposed to tossing everything into messy drawers. These towers take up minimal counter space, while allowing a clean clear view of items while getting ready. Unique features include soft closure drawers, and hidden power inside of the drawers for hair dryer, etc. This backsplash was a special unique feature which I aDORE! Taken on Alexandra's Iphone. Professional Photos pending.

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

We removed three walls to open this kitchen up to the great room and breakfast area so the family and guests could visit while meals are being prepared. The custom cabinetry, designed by Bay Area Kitchens, was meticulously hand crafted to our exact specifications by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in Kreamer, PA. A medium gray stain was applied to the solid walnut 1" thick doors and drawer fronts. The cabinets were designed and accessorized to maximize storage space and convenient access, including various sizes and depths of drawers, pull-out racks, tray dividers and a heavy-duty mixer base. The built-in Sub-Zero refrigerator, combination convection steam oven and single convection oven, 48" rangetop with six dual burners plus a flat-top griddle, and microwave drawer are the heart of this true gourmet kitchen. Appropriate appliances are Wi-Fi connected for maximum convenience. Topping off the custom cabinetry are Cambria quartz countertops, plus two solid walnut countertops with "live" edges by Grothouse. We also installed an automated LED lighting system including cabinet interior lighting, under-cabinet lighting, and LED recessed cans, all controlled by Lutron's RadioRA wireless lighting control system. All the lighting can be controlled by any of the five wall panels, or by an iPhone or iPad. The cabinets are also equipped with an integrated stereo sound system completely concealed within the cabinets. Professional photos by Benjamin Hill Photography, others by Randy Godeau of Bay Area Kitchens

This custom built Modern Farmhouse is located in West Linn, OR. Custom build and design by Palisade Homes LLC. 4,600 sqft of open concept space includes an indoor basement sports court, rock climbing wall, game room with double gaming TVs and Elkay drinking fountain. Savant home system controls lighting, cable, music and more throughout the home via iPads or iPhones. 10' ceilings with sofftited two tone white oak stained and painted cabinets offer a clean transitional look. Floating shelves highlight the straight set New Yorker subway tiles. Mudroom offers dutch door, extra fridge/freezer, pantry, locker cubbies and secondary office space. BM AMHERST GRAY , BM SIMPLY WHITE TRIM

Conceived by architect Rafael Viñoly—432 Park Avenue is the tallest residential skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. This apartment designed by John Beckmann and his design firm Axis Mundi has some of the most breathtaking views in Manhattan. Known for their glamorous low-slung aesthetic, Axis Mundi took the challenge to design the residence for an American client living in China with a family of four, and an important art collection (including the likes of Cy Twombly, Gerhard Richter, Susan Frecon, Vik Muniz and Lisette Schumacher, among others). In the dining room, a Bocci “28 Chandelier” hangs above an intricate marble and brass table by Henge, with ceramics by John Born. Entering the main living area, a monumental “Let it Be” sectional from Poltrona Frau sits on a silver custom-designed Joseph Carini wool and silk rug. A ‘Surface” coffee table designed by Vincent Van Duysen and “Fulgens” armchairs in saddle leather by Antonio Citterio for B&B Italia create the penultimate space for entertaining. The sensuous red library features custom-designed bookshelves in burnished brass and walnut, as a “Wing Sofa” in red velvet from Flexform floats atop a “Ponti” area rug from the Rug Company. “JJ Chairs” in Mongolian lamb fur from B&B Italia add a rock and roll swagger to the space. The kitchen accentuates the grey marble flooring and all-white color palette, with the exception of a few light wood and marble details. A dramatic pendant in hand-burnished brass, designed by Henge, hovers above the kitchen island, while a floating marble counter spans the window opening. It is a serene spot to enjoy a morning cappuccino while pondering the ever-changing skyline of the Metropolis. In a counterintuitive move, Beckmann decided to make the gallery dark by finishing the walls in a smoked lacquered plaster with hints of mica, which add sparkle and glitter. John Beckmann made sure to include extravagant fabrics from Christopher Hyland and a deft mix of textures and colors to the design. In the master bedroom is a wall-length headboard system in leather and velvet panels from Poliform, with luxurious bedding from Frette. Dupre Lafon lounge chairs in a buttery leather rest on a custom golden silk carpet by Joseph Carini, while a pair of parchment bedside lamps by Jean Michel Frank complete the design. The facade is treated with an LED lighting system which changes colors and can be controlled by the client with their iPhone from the street. Design: John Beckmann, with Hannah LaSota Photography: Durston Saylor Contractor: Cardinal Construction Size: 4000 sf © Axis Mundi Design LLC

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

American Heritage Homes- The beautiful Prairie styling of this home will draw your eye in appreciation. Thoughtful touches include a soaring two-sided fireplace that warms both the great room and large entry foyer. Double doors open the great room to a sundeck or rest in the shade of the covered deck a few steps away overlooking the golf course and downtown skyline. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas range, built-in full size refrigerator and full size freezer, a center island with an eating counter and a large walk in pantry. Additionally the main level features a bedroom, full bath, a den/library with beautiful craftsmanship, a mud room, powder room and laundry room. The entire second floor is devoted to the fabulous master suite with its sitting room that opens to a private covered balcony. Another two-sided fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth from the master bedroom or while relaxing in the beautiful freestanding tub in the huge bathroom. Yet another level awaits you downstairs with a delightful games room complete with wet bar, home theatre area, two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. Double French doors lead to the outdoor entertaining space complete with a gas fire pit. This home features Control4, offering the ultimate in home automation by integrating everything from lighting control, music and home theatre to climate control and security- even iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets. A smart house by Control4 creates personalized experiences that enhance your life and provide added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind.

Photography by Ric Johnson http://www.RicJPhotography.com
Example of a transitional home design design in Austin

Custom touches included glass shelf storage "cubbie", as well as locating the fill spout and control valve on the back wall, flagstone vanity top with stainless bowl and curved, one-off vanity cabinet. I took the photo with my iphone.

A standard in energy efficiency Applause® honeycomb shades offer a streamlined selection of fabrics, colors and operating systems, including Vertiglide™. The only honeycomb shades with energy-efficient, triple-cell construction.

Sheridan Beach Lakefront Remodel: Lifestyle Enhanced! Lakeside living at its finest! The owners of this dated Sheridan Beach home wanted an entertaining space that would take full advantage of the beautiful Lake Washington location. Adams Architecture and Prestige Residential Construction collaborated to realize this dream with timeless touches and advanced home technology. The light filled kitchen features a generous island and high quality stainless steel appliances. The entire great room, including the wet bar, is fitted with traditional custom cabinets serving a variety of functions including always needed extra storage. With wide French and bi-fold doors open, the space welcomes the outside in with views of the lake and Mount Rainier. When entertaining, guests can flow seamlessly from the heated tile floors to the lakeside deck. Of special construction note: the homeowners wanted to utilize the latest technology in their home without sacrificing design. To this end, the multi-zoned HVAC system is well concealed in the box beam ceiling and maximizes comfort throughout the entire home. The great room is outfitted with state-of-the-art technology, including LED lighting, power window coverings via a Lutron keypad system accessible through iPad or iPhone. The audio/visual system uses a universal remote and concealed ceiling mounted speakers.