This 24’ by 22’ addition opens up the kitchen space with an additional room which the kitchen connects to. The newly constructed space serves as a living room/sunroom. To do this, we tore down the kitchen wall and built a temporary plywood wall to keep the space closed off from the new construction. The new structure was framed and the roof was shingled. To allow for the roof line, new window openings were built and new windows were purchased to meet current egress requirements. The double door that initially went to the exterior was transformed into an 8’ tall opening. The kitchen window at the sink was taken out and now has a wood jamb opening with a granite countertop for a bar where people can sit and watch the cooks at work. Inside the addition we created some additional cabinet space for another serving area. The cabinetry was framed to fit a beverage cooler. The floor in the addition matches the existing hand scraped wood floor in the kitchen. One particular challenge we faced in the addition was ensuring that the floor elevation for the new addition lined perfectly so that it was seamless. On the exterior we installed a new cultured ledge stone and a real limestone sill with actual rock face to provide a natural appearance. The stone steps on each of the entryways into the addition have a similar look. The radius steps contain the rock face feature as well. Large windows were installed which match the pitch of the existing roof. The siding on the new structure is sympathetic to the siding on the home. We also installed new state of the art skylights that shut themselves when it rains.

Karen and Chad of Tower Lakes, IL were tired of their unfinished basement functioning as nothing more than a storage area and depressing gym. They wanted to increase the livable square footage of their home with a cohesive finished basement design, while incorporating space for the kids and adults to hang out. “We wanted to make sure that upon renovating the basement, that we can have a place where we can spend time and watch movies, but also entertain and showcase the wine collection that we have,” Karen said. After a long search comparing many different remodeling companies, Karen and Chad found Advance Design Studio. They were drawn towards the unique “Common Sense Remodeling” process that simplifies the renovation experience into predictable steps focused on customer satisfaction. “There are so many other design/build companies, who may not have transparency, or a focused process in mind and I think that is what separated Advance Design Studio from the rest,” Karen said. Karen loved how designer Claudia Pop was able to take very high-level concepts, “non-negotiable items” and implement them in the initial 3D drawings. Claudia and Project Manager DJ Yurik kept the couple in constant communication through the project. “Claudia was very receptive to the ideas we had, but she was also very good at infusing her own points and thoughts, she was very responsive, and we had an open line of communication,” Karen said. A very important part of the basement renovation for the couple was the home gym and sauna. The “high-end hotel” look and feel of the openly blended work out area is both highly functional and beautiful to look at. The home sauna gives them a place to relax after a long day of work or a tough workout. “The gym was a very important feature for us,” Karen said. “And I think (Advance Design) did a very great job in not only making the gym a functional area, but also an aesthetic point in our basement”. An extremely unique wow-factor in this basement is the walk in glass wine cellar that elegantly displays Karen and Chad’s extensive wine collection. Immediate access to the stunning wet bar accompanies the wine cellar to make this basement a popular spot for friends and family. The custom-built wine bar brings together two natural elements; Calacatta Vicenza Quartz and thick distressed Black Walnut. Sophisticated yet warm Graphite Dura Supreme cabinetry provides contrast to the soft beige walls and the Calacatta Gold backsplash. An undermount sink across from the bar in a matching Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop adds functionality and convenience to the bar, while identical distressed walnut floating shelves add an interesting design element and increased storage. Rich true brown Rustic Oak hardwood floors soften and warm the space drawing all the areas together. Across from the bar is a comfortable living area perfect for the family to sit down at a watch a movie. A full bath completes this finished basement with a spacious walk-in shower, Cocoa Brown Dura Supreme vanity with Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop, a crisp white sink and a stainless-steel Voss faucet. Advance Design’s Common Sense process gives clients the opportunity to walk through the basement renovation process one step at a time, in a completely predictable and controlled environment. “Everything was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to it’s full potential,” Karen said. Constantly striving for customer satisfaction, Advance Design’s success is heavily reliant upon happy clients referring their friends and family. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a remodeling project small or large,” Karen exclaimed at the completion of her project.

This 24’ by 22’ addition opens up the kitchen space with an additional room which the kitchen connects to. The newly constructed space serves as a living room/sunroom. To do this, we tore down the kitchen wall and built a temporary plywood wall to keep the space closed off from the new construction. The new structure was framed and the roof was shingled. To allow for the roof line, new window openings were built and new windows were purchased to meet current egress requirements. The double door that initially went to the exterior was transformed into an 8’ tall opening. The kitchen window at the sink was taken out and now has a wood jamb opening with a granite countertop for a bar where people can sit and watch the cooks at work. Inside the addition we created some additional cabinet space for another serving area. The cabinetry was framed to fit a beverage cooler. The floor in the addition matches the existing hand scraped wood floor in the kitchen. One particular challenge we faced in the addition was ensuring that the floor elevation for the new addition lined perfectly so that it was seamless. On the exterior we installed a new cultured ledge stone and a real limestone sill with actual rock face to provide a natural appearance. The stone steps on each of the entryways into the addition have a similar look. The radius steps contain the rock face feature as well. Large windows were installed which match the pitch of the existing roof. The siding on the new structure is sympathetic to the siding on the home. We also installed new state of the art skylights that shut themselves when it rains.

This 24’ by 22’ addition opens up the kitchen space with an additional room which the kitchen connects to. The newly constructed space serves as a living room/sunroom. To do this, we tore down the kitchen wall and built a temporary plywood wall to keep the space closed off from the new construction. The new structure was framed and the roof was shingled. To allow for the roof line, new window openings were built and new windows were purchased to meet current egress requirements. The double door that initially went to the exterior was transformed into an 8’ tall opening. The kitchen window at the sink was taken out and now has a wood jamb opening with a granite countertop for a bar where people can sit and watch the cooks at work. Inside the addition we created some additional cabinet space for another serving area. The cabinetry was framed to fit a beverage cooler. The floor in the addition matches the existing hand scraped wood floor in the kitchen. One particular challenge we faced in the addition was ensuring that the floor elevation for the new addition lined perfectly so that it was seamless. On the exterior we installed a new cultured ledge stone and a real limestone sill with actual rock face to provide a natural appearance. The stone steps on each of the entryways into the addition have a similar look. The radius steps contain the rock face feature as well. Large windows were installed which match the pitch of the existing roof. The siding on the new structure is sympathetic to the siding on the home. We also installed new state of the art skylights that shut themselves when it rains.

This 24’ by 22’ addition opens up the kitchen space with an additional room which the kitchen connects to. The newly constructed space serves as a living room/sunroom. To do this, we tore down the kitchen wall and built a temporary plywood wall to keep the space closed off from the new construction. The new structure was framed and the roof was shingled. To allow for the roof line, new window openings were built and new windows were purchased to meet current egress requirements. The double door that initially went to the exterior was transformed into an 8’ tall opening. The kitchen window at the sink was taken out and now has a wood jamb opening with a granite countertop for a bar where people can sit and watch the cooks at work. Inside the addition we created some additional cabinet space for another serving area. The cabinetry was framed to fit a beverage cooler. The floor in the addition matches the existing hand scraped wood floor in the kitchen. One particular challenge we faced in the addition was ensuring that the floor elevation for the new addition lined perfectly so that it was seamless. On the exterior we installed a new cultured ledge stone and a real limestone sill with actual rock face to provide a natural appearance. The stone steps on each of the entryways into the addition have a similar look. The radius steps contain the rock face feature as well. Large windows were installed which match the pitch of the existing roof. The siding on the new structure is sympathetic to the siding on the home. We also installed new state of the art skylights that shut themselves when it rains.

2021 Regional CotY Award Residential Detached Structure Winner! This backyard is a dream come true for the family that loves to host! With multiple entertainment areas, you can relax in the hot tub or mingle in the outdoor entertainment area. Once you step inside you can pour yourself a beer at the bar, take a seat at the dining room table, or get cozy by the fireplace on a chilly evening – this backyard really is perfect for year-round entertainers! The quality of the materials and products used was of great importance to this wonderful family. Having commercial quality cooking appliances including a large grill, double side-burner, refrigerator, and beer dispenser were must haves in the backyard kitchen. Showcasing the beauty and character of wood and the need for natural light was desired from the initial conception. Incorporating fun details including the barn doors, mixed siding, lighting, woodstove, and bar shelf has lead to wonderful conversations about the owner’s desire to combine “some contemporary elements with the flavor of Bend.” We took great care in laying out the space to give three individual areas for groups of 2-4 people to have semi-private conversations and a fourth area with a large table for up to 12 people. There's plenty of space outside the kitchen area to mingle in the gardens, the new deck with lighted stairs, or relax in the hot tub. As you can see, every detail of this project was thought through to create the perfect space for entertainment and relaxation.

South Elevation: 7,000 SF, 4 bed, 4 bath, Guest Suite, 4 car garage, pool Township’s Victorian styles catalyzed design initiating use of 7 separate materials to comply with style rules: brick, slate, wood, copper, marble, glass and tile. Corner lot’s diagonal axis (north/south) established structures orientation (east/west). Asymmetry commences on axis intersect with formal functions housed in split pyramid shape with monumental steps whose locus, a Palladian Window, accesses Grand Foyer with barrel vault hovering above double curvilinear staircases exiting at South facing window wall balcony which attaches to 2 bedroom suites with private baths. The Master Suite contains platform sleeping area adjoining covered balcony, barrel vaulted seating area with fireplace and French door barrel vaulted seating area with fireplace and French door barrel vaulted sauna. Formal 20 seat dinning area and living area with study and alcove library adjoin grand foyer on ground floor. Den with bar and fireplace adjoin kitchen with walk in pantry. A glass wall spills kitchen onto entertainment plaza. Salt box form completes 2 car garage and second floor guest quarters with private entrance. Ground plane completes design with Grecian shaped perennial/flowering landscaping. Design includes Multi zoned hydronic heating with booster electrical coil fans, full basement, exterior storage sheds, Jen-air appliances, Waterford chandeliers, security and burglar alarm system complete estate’s appointments.

This 24’ by 22’ addition opens up the kitchen space with an additional room which the kitchen connects to. The newly constructed space serves as a living room/sunroom. To do this, we tore down the kitchen wall and built a temporary plywood wall to keep the space closed off from the new construction. The new structure was framed and the roof was shingled. To allow for the roof line, new window openings were built and new windows were purchased to meet current egress requirements. The double door that initially went to the exterior was transformed into an 8’ tall opening. The kitchen window at the sink was taken out and now has a wood jamb opening with a granite countertop for a bar where people can sit and watch the cooks at work. Inside the addition we created some additional cabinet space for another serving area. The cabinetry was framed to fit a beverage cooler. The floor in the addition matches the existing hand scraped wood floor in the kitchen. One particular challenge we faced in the addition was ensuring that the floor elevation for the new addition lined perfectly so that it was seamless. On the exterior we installed a new cultured ledge stone and a real limestone sill with actual rock face to provide a natural appearance. The stone steps on each of the entryways into the addition have a similar look. The radius steps contain the rock face feature as well. Large windows were installed which match the pitch of the existing roof. The siding on the new structure is sympathetic to the siding on the home. We also installed new state of the art skylights that shut themselves when it rains.

Living room - mid-sized 1960s gray floor, wood ceiling and wood wall living room idea in Denver with a wood stove and a tile fireplace

Steroids? Perhaps that's a bit over the top, but we wanted to frame this project from the outset as a definite step up to the next level. These Mahtomedi homeowners wanted a larger more protected space to grill, entertain and enjoy their spectacular view of woods and lake without worrying about the weather. Nothing worse than trying to remember, as thunder peels overhead, if you left your laptop or library book out on the porch or deck while stuck in heavy traffic. Well, except if you were in a convertible. That would definitely be worse. During our initial discovery meeting we also learned they were tired of the constant maintenance their existing cedar deck required. The head of our paint and fine finishing department, is often overheard lamenting how homeowners have no idea how much maintenance is actually required to care for wood decks. So, these folks apparently did know, and had their fill of it. We discussed a traditional heated, glassed-in and insulated 3 & 4-season porch, but they felt that was a bit more than they needed or wanted. Our solution? Screen porch 2.0. — a new approach. The plan: expand the footprint of the existing deck, replacing it with Timbertech® low-maintenance decking, creating an additional 12 x 6 foot enclosed porch with an uncovered 6 x 9 foot deck space for grilling. After much research and evaluation we selected the Eze-Breeze®enclosure system—a customizable, panelized enclosure system that has the look of a 4-season with the protection of a 3-season porch, but for far less than a 3 or 4-season price tag. Bingo! Screen porch to the next level. Murphy Bros. Design/Build Consultant — Jeff Robinson Photography — Alyssa Lee

2021 Regional CotY Award Residential Detached Structure Winner! This backyard is a dream come true for the family that loves to host! With multiple entertainment areas, you can relax in the hot tub or mingle in the outdoor entertainment area. Once you step inside you can pour yourself a beer at the bar, take a seat at the dining room table, or get cozy by the fireplace on a chilly evening – this backyard really is perfect for year-round entertainers! The quality of the materials and products used was of great importance to this wonderful family. Having commercial quality cooking appliances including a large grill, double side-burner, refrigerator, and beer dispenser were must haves in the backyard kitchen. Showcasing the beauty and character of wood and the need for natural light was desired from the initial conception. Incorporating fun details including the barn doors, mixed siding, lighting, woodstove, and bar shelf has lead to wonderful conversations about the owner’s desire to combine “some contemporary elements with the flavor of Bend.” We took great care in laying out the space to give three individual areas for groups of 2-4 people to have semi-private conversations and a fourth area with a large table for up to 12 people. There's plenty of space outside the kitchen area to mingle in the gardens, the new deck with lighted stairs, or relax in the hot tub. As you can see, every detail of this project was thought through to create the perfect space for entertainment and relaxation.

He wanted a lake house, she wanted a pool. Tucked away on a small cul-de-sac in North Reading is a backyard oasis like no other. “During our initial meeting with the homeowners, it became apparent that they wanted a unique pool, so we suggested a free-form gunite pool surrounded by an indigenous Goshen Stone patio, custom cut to create ultra-tight joints. The stone arrived in huge slabs — most over 5’ x 5’ in size — and varied significantly in thickness. Countless hours were spent cutting, chiseling, and even sandblasting this life-sized jigsaw puzzle. The final look was exactly what we were shooting for.” Russell The pool itself has a dark, pebble finish with a long, custom bench and a simple, spillway stone creating a perfect respite with a calming sound. Surrounding the pool and patio is a lush lawn with large swatches of summertime perennials. The homeowner is an active gardener, so providing him with areas to hone his skills was paramount to our success as a design firm. Large, architectural boulders were carefully arranged throughout the rear yard as both design elements and as functional furniture. A custom-built, wood, wire, and split granite fence meets pool-enclosure requirements and adds that farmhouse-feel to the overall look. Carefully arranged Goshen step stone set flush in the lawn orchestrates movement throughout the garden while connecting the house and pool in a thoughtful, artistic way. No need to travel north to the lake when you’ve got this to enjoy daily — right in your own backyard!

He wanted a lake house, she wanted a pool. Tucked away on a small cul-de-sac in North Reading is a backyard oasis like no other. “During our initial meeting with the homeowners, it became apparent that they wanted a unique pool, so we suggested a free-form gunite pool surrounded by an indigenous Goshen Stone patio, custom cut to create ultra-tight joints. The stone arrived in huge slabs — most over 5’ x 5’ in size — and varied significantly in thickness. Countless hours were spent cutting, chiseling, and even sandblasting this life-sized jigsaw puzzle. The final look was exactly what we were shooting for.” Russell The pool itself has a dark, pebble finish with a long, custom bench and a simple, spillway stone creating a perfect respite with a calming sound. Surrounding the pool and patio is a lush lawn with large swatches of summertime perennials. The homeowner is an active gardener, so providing him with areas to hone his skills was paramount to our success as a design firm. Large, architectural boulders were carefully arranged throughout the rear yard as both design elements and as functional furniture. A custom-built, wood, wire, and split granite fence meets pool-enclosure requirements and adds that farmhouse-feel to the overall look. Carefully arranged Goshen step stone set flush in the lawn orchestrates movement throughout the garden while connecting the house and pool in a thoughtful, artistic way. No need to travel north to the lake when you’ve got this to enjoy daily — right in your own backyard!

Not everyone would see the hidden beauty in the Yonkers property destined for the wrecking ball in 2000. But one family took the serious fixer-upper under their wing. Crumbling walls, overgrown maples (indeed, saplings were busting through the brick walls), and deer living in the basement was the state of affairs when Westover Landscape Design initially arrived on the scene. A year of intensive, meticulous, thoughtful renovation by the homeowner followed while the house was brought up to speed. When the last construction machine finally rumbled out, that’s when Robert Welsch and his crew began their odyssey. The goal was to honor the newly restored relic and deliver it into the future with fitting surroundings. “We wanted to bring that treasure back to life,” Robert Welsch explains. Working closely with the homeowner as well as the city of Yonkers to guide the restoration, their first feat was to install a proper drainage system with catchments capable of keeping storm water from the massive roof flowing away. Before anything was visible on the surface, extensive work was accomplished underground. Meanwhile, a plan was drafted to honor the era of the house. Westover chose bluestone as the primary path material for its easy maintenance and simplicity when laying the swank configuration of pathways around the house and outward to an entertaining pavilion. By cleverly hemming the bluestone with period brick that echoes the building material for the house for continuity, the result is a smart and sophisticated finish to a promenade that constantly draws the family and their pets outdoors. Brick was also used to rebuild the walled gardens for the much-needed privacy in a close-knit Yonkers community. And a graceful wrought iron gate enhances the arrival experience. But walls and gates were not the only element to screen and reveal views—plant selection was critical. Few landscapers would go the extra mile to find period perfect plants for a 19th Century restoration, but Robert Welsch saw the importance of authenticity in creating the mood. He repeated large trees—such as an exquisite London plane tree in the front yard—to balance the expression in the back. Recognizing the need for immediate stature, he selected a weeping willow to gain instant volume, giving the landscape a sense of deep roots. A weeping Camperdown elm adds sophisticated drama to the walled stroll gardens. Hydrangeas were incorporated for their billowy stature, easy maintenance, and long blooming season. Similarly, all the plants in residence play their part in the display that goes beyond the usual spring fling to extend throughout the growing season—offering visual interest even when they are not performing. From spring bulbs to autumn perennials, there is never a dull moment. Meanwhile, every step along the way was a collaboration working hand-in-hand with the homeowner and the city to make certain that the historic landmark status of the property was upheld and honored. The result goes beyond a landscape that is just old faithful. It adds life to the picture, creating a jewel-like setting for the newly proud house. In a word, it is sublime. By planting wisely and using sustainable elements, the restored house and its surroundings are ready for the next generation and beyond. This Yonkers gem remains meticulously groomed under the watchful eye and skill of Westover Landscape Design’s team of gardeners—It’s a keeper.

2021 Regional CotY Award Residential Detached Structure Winner! This backyard is a dream come true for the family that loves to host! With multiple entertainment areas, you can relax in the hot tub or mingle in the outdoor entertainment area. Once you step inside you can pour yourself a beer at the bar, take a seat at the dining room table, or get cozy by the fireplace on a chilly evening – this backyard really is perfect for year-round entertainers! The quality of the materials and products used was of great importance to this wonderful family. Having commercial quality cooking appliances including a large grill, double side-burner, refrigerator, and beer dispenser were must haves in the backyard kitchen. Showcasing the beauty and character of wood and the need for natural light was desired from the initial conception. Incorporating fun details including the barn doors, mixed siding, lighting, woodstove, and bar shelf has lead to wonderful conversations about the owner’s desire to combine “some contemporary elements with the flavor of Bend.” We took great care in laying out the space to give three individual areas for groups of 2-4 people to have semi-private conversations and a fourth area with a large table for up to 12 people. There's plenty of space outside the kitchen area to mingle in the gardens, the new deck with lighted stairs, or relax in the hot tub. As you can see, every detail of this project was thought through to create the perfect space for entertainment and relaxation.

He wanted a lake house, she wanted a pool. Tucked away on a small cul-de-sac in North Reading is a backyard oasis like no other. “During our initial meeting with the homeowners, it became apparent that they wanted a unique pool, so we suggested a free-form gunite pool surrounded by an indigenous Goshen Stone patio, custom cut to create ultra-tight joints. The stone arrived in huge slabs — most over 5’ x 5’ in size — and varied significantly in thickness. Countless hours were spent cutting, chiseling, and even sandblasting this life-sized jigsaw puzzle. The final look was exactly what we were shooting for.” Russell The pool itself has a dark, pebble finish with a long, custom bench and a simple, spillway stone creating a perfect respite with a calming sound. Surrounding the pool and patio is a lush lawn with large swatches of summertime perennials. The homeowner is an active gardener, so providing him with areas to hone his skills was paramount to our success as a design firm. Large, architectural boulders were carefully arranged throughout the rear yard as both design elements and as functional furniture. A custom-built, wood, wire, and split granite fence meets pool-enclosure requirements and adds that farmhouse-feel to the overall look. Carefully arranged Goshen step stone set flush in the lawn orchestrates movement throughout the garden while connecting the house and pool in a thoughtful, artistic way. No need to travel north to the lake when you’ve got this to enjoy daily — right in your own backyard!

2021 Regional CotY Award Residential Detached Structure Winner! This backyard is a dream come true for the family that loves to host! With multiple entertainment areas, you can relax in the hot tub or mingle in the outdoor entertainment area. Once you step inside you can pour yourself a beer at the bar, take a seat at the dining room table, or get cozy by the fireplace on a chilly evening – this backyard really is perfect for year-round entertainers! The quality of the materials and products used was of great importance to this wonderful family. Having commercial quality cooking appliances including a large grill, double side-burner, refrigerator, and beer dispenser were must haves in the backyard kitchen. Showcasing the beauty and character of wood and the need for natural light was desired from the initial conception. Incorporating fun details including the barn doors, mixed siding, lighting, woodstove, and bar shelf has lead to wonderful conversations about the owner’s desire to combine “some contemporary elements with the flavor of Bend.” We took great care in laying out the space to give three individual areas for groups of 2-4 people to have semi-private conversations and a fourth area with a large table for up to 12 people. There's plenty of space outside the kitchen area to mingle in the gardens, the new deck with lighted stairs, or relax in the hot tub. As you can see, every detail of this project was thought through to create the perfect space for entertainment and relaxation.

2021 Regional CotY Award Residential Detached Structure Winner! This backyard is a dream come true for the family that loves to host! With multiple entertainment areas, you can relax in the hot tub or mingle in the outdoor entertainment area. Once you step inside you can pour yourself a beer at the bar, take a seat at the dining room table, or get cozy by the fireplace on a chilly evening – this backyard really is perfect for year-round entertainers! The quality of the materials and products used was of great importance to this wonderful family. Having commercial quality cooking appliances including a large grill, double side-burner, refrigerator, and beer dispenser were must haves in the backyard kitchen. Showcasing the beauty and character of wood and the need for natural light was desired from the initial conception. Incorporating fun details including the barn doors, mixed siding, lighting, woodstove, and bar shelf has lead to wonderful conversations about the owner’s desire to combine “some contemporary elements with the flavor of Bend.” We took great care in laying out the space to give three individual areas for groups of 2-4 people to have semi-private conversations and a fourth area with a large table for up to 12 people. There's plenty of space outside the kitchen area to mingle in the gardens, the new deck with lighted stairs, or relax in the hot tub. As you can see, every detail of this project was thought through to create the perfect space for entertainment and relaxation.

2021 Regional CotY Award Residential Detached Structure Winner! This backyard is a dream come true for the family that loves to host! With multiple entertainment areas, you can relax in the hot tub or mingle in the outdoor entertainment area. Once you step inside you can pour yourself a beer at the bar, take a seat at the dining room table, or get cozy by the fireplace on a chilly evening – this backyard really is perfect for year-round entertainers! The quality of the materials and products used was of great importance to this wonderful family. Having commercial quality cooking appliances including a large grill, double side-burner, refrigerator, and beer dispenser were must haves in the backyard kitchen. Showcasing the beauty and character of wood and the need for natural light was desired from the initial conception. Incorporating fun details including the barn doors, mixed siding, lighting, woodstove, and bar shelf has lead to wonderful conversations about the owner’s desire to combine “some contemporary elements with the flavor of Bend.” We took great care in laying out the space to give three individual areas for groups of 2-4 people to have semi-private conversations and a fourth area with a large table for up to 12 people. There's plenty of space outside the kitchen area to mingle in the gardens, the new deck with lighted stairs, or relax in the hot tub. As you can see, every detail of this project was thought through to create the perfect space for entertainment and relaxation.