Purchased by the current owner in 2013, this property had been gutted to exposed brick and subfloors, leaving nothing but an open shell behind. While an extensive remodeling project was undertaken across the property as a whole, a brand-new cozy cocoon was meticulously crafted within the property’s cellar. Originally described as "A cold, dark, damp cellar where people kept mechanical equipment and not much else," this below-ground level is now a premier swim/spa/steam/sauna oasis. A Grand ARDA for indoor living goes to Dixon Projects Designer: Dixon Projects From: New York, New York

Originally submitted for the Model Homes category, the judges felt this entry deserved an ARDA in Design Detail. This particular home was designed to meet the demands of empty nesters, seeking a low maintenance home close to everything. This design is located in a neighborhood with strict design guidelines. The garage was required to be setback 35 feet from the front of the home. Small lot constraints with a public access path on one side presented challenges fitting all requests into a single level. Coming in at just over 1,600 square foot, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with expansive great room accomplished the designer's goals. An ARDA for Design Details goes to Muddy River Design Designer: Adam R Peterson From: Bend, Oregon

2017 HNA Awards Winner - Concrete Paver - Residential - Size less than 3,000 sf Contractor: Paver Designs LLC Manufacturer: Belgard Designer: Paver Designs LLC

The unique feature of this contemporary space is that the first floor area is designed to be a working office and the second floor is a balcony library. The second floor space contains large walls of books stored on milled book shelves and cabinetry matching that of the first floor. The large windows provide stunning views to a meticulously landscaped lake. An ARDA for indoor living goes to Studer Residential Designs, Inc. Designers: Paul Studer with Laurie Doughman From: Cold Spring, Kentucky

HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Wayne Pool Wayne, New Jersey Monello Landscape Industries Design elements and features include six multi level paver patios, three permeable paver patios, and a sunken pool bar and kitchen with seating inside and outside the pool. A 20 foot double water falls drops into a pond with glass panels that separate the pool from the pond enabling views of koi. A 24 in. by 30 foot running/trickle water wall over natural stone into the the pool is also features. Additional items include three built-in bistro tables, a 20 foot high boulder wall system featuring perennial garden plantings, and floating boulders built into the pool. Design challenges included a 12 foot high bar wall engineered with ¾ in. rebar and a solid concrete pour. Lower levels of the patio system were built and excavated below the water table level, so an extensive and creative drainage system was installed. In addition, water pumps were active during construction. Trenching was so extensive under and around the hardscape areas that all soil had to be removed from the site and replaced with compacted clean stone so there was no threat of future settlement. There was over 1500 cubic yards of soil removed from the site and over 1500 yards of aggregate trucked into the site.

To facilitate the builder's desire to create a successful model home in this large site development with expansive natural preserves, this design creates a sense of presence far greater than its actual size. This was accomplished by a wide yet shallow layout that allows most rooms to look out to rear of home and preserve views beyond. Designed with a West Indies flavor, this thoroughly modern home's layout flows seamlessly from space to space. Each room is bright with lots of natural light, creating a home that takes fullest potential of this unique site. An ARDA for Model Home Design goes to The Stater Group, Inc. Designer: The Sater Group, Inc. From: Bonita Springs, Florida

This design is a Gulf-side 2nd home in a historically designated area. The simple goals for the home are to create a small interior 3 bedroom 2 bath house, efficient in space and low on maintenance, while maximizing the exterior spaces. The more complicated goals include designing a house that can be open when occupied and closed when not as it is 300’ from the Gulf of Mexico and must be secure from storms. The clients requested that the house could be boarded up as part of the design. They wanted the house to look inviting even when it was closed for a storm. A Grand ARDA for Custom Home Design goes to emerymcclure architecture Designers: Michael McClure and Ursula Emery McClure with Sarah Young From: Lafayette, Louisiana

Staircase photo in Cleveland

2018 HNA Awards Honorable Mention - Concrete Paver - Commercial (size more than 15,000 sf) Contractor: B&D Contractors Inc. Producer: Keystone Hardscapes Designer: OJB Landscape Architects Once modest and tucked away off a dead end road, Levy Park received a revitalization to re-engage the local community. CityStone, Holland, Roman Cobble and Verona pavers were chosen in the design to help separate different areas of the park, add a sense of playfulness and accentuate natural features. The transformation included native landscaping, interactive water features, a dog park, garden, park pavilion and children’s play area. Pavers helped create and define each of these spaces through use of colors, shapes and inlay patterns. Variegated and whimsical paver patterns invoke a sense of spirited movement and fun. The use of multiple paver shapes, colors, and upgraded textures added depth and beauty to this cunningly conceived urban space, by accenting native grass areas and designating different park sections. The central grand walkways gracefully arc throughout the space with large plank style pavers, creating a modern boardwalk feel. Recognizing the park’s development history dating back to 1941, incorporating new design elements while maintaining original aspects was important to the redesign. The chosen pavers were able to integrate with the longstanding historical elements, while adding an artful refresh to the park. A local resident stated, “This is hands down the most gorgeous and well-designed park I’ve ever seen. I fell in love the second I stepped foot into it.” Through thoughtful design and paver choices utilizing different shapes, colors and textures, Levy Park is now a community hot spot.

The permeable paver design was required to meet the impervious cover limitations and water quality requirements at Post Oak Community. The Pavestone Eco-Venetian was selected as the 4-piece combo provides a striking visual interest to the pavement. The designer, Watts & Browning Engineers out of Marietta, Georgia, was also able to manage storm drainage and provide stormwater detention with the benefit of an aesthetic that matches the design of the new homes while complimenting the surrounding existing homes. The warmth of the Chattanooga Sandstone color includes the earth tones of buff and charcoal to make a subtle blend that of a natural stone. Given the design of the subdivision incorporating permeable pavers, all stormwater is contained out of sight and out of mind with only the beauty to see. 2016 HNA Award Winner: Concrete Paver - Permeable - Residential Contractor: Surfaces Group LLC Product Manufacturer: Pavestone Project Designer: Watts & Browning Engineers, Inc.

2018 HNA Awards Winner - Concrete Paver - Residential (size more than 3,000 sf) Contractor: LR Landscaping Producer: Keystone Hardscapes Designer: Tanna Johns Venetian pavers were selected for their ability to integrate with the earthen tones found in the area’s natural grasses, granite, oaks and rust-toned soil. Pavers were tumbled to achieve a weathered and rustic look, complementing the limestone used on the home. The home’s exterior includes exudes quality and includes limestone as well as both precast and oil rubbed bronze iron accents. Tumbled pavers balance German Schmear grout style used on the limestone walls and the roof tile mudded ridges and bumps. The commitment to craftsmanship necessitated a 2.5 year build process. Keystone Hardscapes samples were created and brought to the home during the final stages of constructions to ensure critical harmony between the pavers and exterior elements of the home. The paver samples were laid against the stucco, precast, limestone and cedar garage doors to confirm design alignment and flow. The natural grade of this site was mitigated through a significant backfill and retaining wall; delivering a subtle slope from street to a flat grade driveway. This provided an even surface for vehicles and, with Venetian pavers, a seamless transition from the entry gate in to the inner courtyard.

This is an example of a landscaping in Sydney.

Forge Craft Architecture + Design Risinger Homes Andrea Calo Photography
Inspiration for a contemporary exterior home remodel in Austin

Situated in a neighborhood beginning to turn around, the design seeks "To Blend the Old With The New". The building design faced many challenges as it went thru the local Citizens Association, the Planning Commission and the City Counsel. Knowing the neighborhood needed flexibility in regards to end users, the lofts concept was developed as a live/work solution. Green Design elements were incorporated; most notable was a 20 well geothermal heat and cool system located under the parking lot. A Grand ARDA for Multi-Family Designs goes to Gaver Nichols Architect Designers: Gaver Nichols Architect with Deborah Nichol From: Alexandria, Virginia

Example of a staircase design in Cleveland

This area used to be a garden, flat, and not landscaped. For the project, we removed the existing plant material, leveled the area, and brought in new soil to build up the center island. The next step was building the small rock wall and placing the plant material and rock. The end product isn't as formal as some projects, it has a rustic charm that is appealing to the eye.

JH Jackson Photography

2017 HNA Awards Winner Combination of Hardscape Products - Residential - Size less than 4,000 sf Contractor/Designer: Extreme Exteriors Manufacturer: Unilock

2018 HNA Awards Honorable Mention - Concrete Paver - Residential (size less than 3,000 sf) Contractor: The Sharper Edge Landscaping Producer: County Materials Corporation Designer: Paul Bowker Four different styles of pavers and creative color combinations were used in this residential patio to separate areas and to create a distinctive feel for each space. A combination of modular shaped pavers and paving stones that simulate flagstone aesthetics were combined, creating a unique presentation. With varying features incorporated throughout the space, fitting each unit into place was a challenge only overcome with precise planning and execution: bullnose pavers were cut to fit the seat wall, fireplace and stair corners, while the flagstone style pavers were cut to fit the square parameters of their area. Retaining wall units were used to create several functional features and add elevation. Situated against the house, a raised patio with an outdoor kitchen was built with retaining wall units. The same units were used to build stairs leading up to this area, a fireplace and a seating area. Bullnose pavers were used multiple ways to add functional value and aesthetic appeal. The seat wall near the fireplace is capped with rounded bullnose pavers for guest comfort. They form stair step treads for clear visibility and sure footing, and they form a creative accent course in the large wall. This patio maximized available space to offer everything the homeowners desired for their outdoor living area: a place to relax, cook, enjoy a fire and unwind in a hot tub. The exceptional colors and styles of pavers adds to the character, and the excellent craftsmanship makes this a special retreat.