We introduce to you one of our newer services we are providing here at Kitchen Design Concepts: spaces that just need a little reviving! As of recent, we are taking on projects that are in need of minimal updating, as in, spaces that don’t need a full-on remodel. Yes, you heard right! If your space has good bones, you like the layout of your kitchen, and you just need a few cosmetic changes, then today’s feature is for you! Recently, we updated a space where we did just this! The kitchen was in need of a little love, some fresh paint, and new finishes. And if we’re being honest here, the result looks almost as if the kitchen had a full-on remodel! To learn more about this space and how we did our magic, continue reading below: The Before and After First, see what an impact new finishes can make! The “before” image shows a kitchen with outdated finishes such as the tile countertops, backsplash, and cabinetry finish. The “after” image, is a kitchen that looks almost as if its brand new, the image speaks for itself! Cabinetry With the wooden cabinetry in this kitchen already having great bones, all we needed to do was our refinishing process that involved removing door and drawer fronts, sanding, priming, and painting. The main color of the cabinetry is white (Sherwin Williams Pure White 7005) and as an accent, we applied a deep navy blue that really pops in this space (Sherwin Willaims Naval 6244). As a special design element, we incorporated a natural wooden band across the hood which is subtle but adds an element of surprise. Countertops The original countertops in this space were a 12×12 tile with cracks and discolored grout from all the wear and tear. To replace the countertops, we installed a clean and crisp quartz that is not only durable but easy to maintain (no grout here!). The 3cm countertops are a Cambria quartz in a grey-tone color (Carrick). Backsplash Keeping things simple, yet classic, we installed a 3×6 subway tile from Interceramic. The crisp white pairs well with all the other finishes of the space and really brighten the space up! To spice things up, we paired the white tile with a contrasting grout color (Cape Grey) that matches the countertop. This is a simple method to add interest to your white backsplash! Fixtures and Fittings For the fixtures and fittings of the kitchen, we wanted pieces that made a statement. That’s why we selected this industrial style faucet from Brizo! The faucet is a Brizo LITZE™ PULL-DOWN FAUCET WITH ARC SPOUT AND INDUSTRIAL HANDLE (63044LF-BLGL). The matte black paired with the luxe gold elements really make a statement! To match the gold elements of the faucet, we installed cabinetry hardware from Topknobs in the same gold finish. The hardware is a Channing pull TK743HB. Lastly, the large single bowl sink (who doesn’t want a large sink?!) is a great functional touch to the kitchen. The sink is a Blanco Precision 16″ R10 super single with 16″ Drainer in stainless steel (516216).

Klopf Architecture and Jesse Ososki Art remodeled an existing Eichler atrium home into a brighter, more open, and more functional version of its original self. The goals were to preserve the Eichler look and feel without the need to strictly adhere to it. The scope of work included re-configuring the master bedroom/bath, the kitchen, and the hall bath/laundry area, as well as updating interior finishes throughout to be more sophisticated. The owners are detail-oriented and were very involved in the design process, down to the selection of lighting controls and stainless steel faceplates.Their design aesthetic leans toward the Scandinavian — light and bright, with simple straight lines and pure geometric shapes. The finish flooring is large porcelain tile (24” x 24”) in a neutral grey tone, providing a uniform backdrop against which other materials can stand out. The same tile continues into the shower floor (with a different finish texture for slip-resistance) and up the shower/tub walls (in a smaller size). Heath Classic Field ceramic tile in Modern Blue was used sparingly, to add color at the hall bath vanity backsplash and at the shampoo niches in both bathrooms. Back-painted soda glass in pale blue to match the Heath tile was used at the kitchen backsplash. This same accent color was also used at the front entry atrium door. Kitchen cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and light fixtures are all white, making the kitchen feel more airy and light. Countertops are Caesarstone Blizzard. The owners chose to keep some of the original Eichler elements: the concrete masonry fireplace; the stained tongue-and-groove redwood ceiling decking; and the luan wall paneling. The luan paneling was lightly sanded, cleaned, and re-stained. The owners also kept an added element that was installed by a previous owner: sliding shoji panels at all bedroom windows and sliding glass doors, for both privacy and sun control. Grooves were cut into the new tile flooring for the shoji panels to slide in, creating a more integrated look. Walnut was used to add warmth and contrast at the kitchen bar top and niche, the bathroom vanities, and the window sill/ledge under the kitchen window. This Burlingame Eichler Remodel is a 2,121 sf, 4 bedroom/2 bath home located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane and Yegvenia Torres Zavala Contractor: Jesse Ososki Art Structural Engineer: Emmanuel Pun Photography ©2018 Mariko Reed Location: Burlingame, CA Year completed: 2017

Klopf Architecture and Jesse Ososki Art remodeled an existing Eichler atrium home into a brighter, more open, and more functional version of its original self. The goals were to preserve the Eichler look and feel without the need to strictly adhere to it. The scope of work included re-configuring the master bedroom/bath, the kitchen, and the hall bath/laundry area, as well as updating interior finishes throughout to be more sophisticated. The owners are detail-oriented and were very involved in the design process, down to the selection of lighting controls and stainless steel faceplates.Their design aesthetic leans toward the Scandinavian — light and bright, with simple straight lines and pure geometric shapes. The finish flooring is large porcelain tile (24” x 24”) in a neutral grey tone, providing a uniform backdrop against which other materials can stand out. The same tile continues into the shower floor (with a different finish texture for slip-resistance) and up the shower/tub walls (in a smaller size). Heath Classic Field ceramic tile in Modern Blue was used sparingly, to add color at the hall bath vanity backsplash and at the shampoo niches in both bathrooms. Back-painted soda glass in pale blue to match the Heath tile was used at the kitchen backsplash. This same accent color was also used at the front entry atrium door. Kitchen cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and light fixtures are all white, making the kitchen feel more airy and light. Countertops are Caesarstone Blizzard. The owners chose to keep some of the original Eichler elements: the concrete masonry fireplace; the stained tongue-and-groove redwood ceiling decking; and the luan wall paneling. The luan paneling was lightly sanded, cleaned, and re-stained. The owners also kept an added element that was installed by a previous owner: sliding shoji panels at all bedroom windows and sliding glass doors, for both privacy and sun control. Grooves were cut into the new tile flooring for the shoji panels to slide in, creating a more integrated look. Walnut was used to add warmth and contrast at the kitchen bar top and niche, the bathroom vanities, and the window sill/ledge under the kitchen window. This Burlingame Eichler Remodel is a 2,121 sf, 4 bedroom/2 bath home located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane and Yegvenia Torres Zavala Contractor: Jesse Ososki Art Structural Engineer: Emmanuel Pun Photography ©2018 Mariko Reed Location: Burlingame, CA Year completed: 2017

Photo: Caela McKeever © 2015 Houzz
Inspiration for a transitional kitchen remodel in Seattle

Klopf Architecture and Jesse Ososki Art remodeled an existing Eichler atrium home into a brighter, more open, and more functional version of its original self. The goals were to preserve the Eichler look and feel without the need to strictly adhere to it. The scope of work included re-configuring the master bedroom/bath, the kitchen, and the hall bath/laundry area, as well as updating interior finishes throughout to be more sophisticated. The owners are detail-oriented and were very involved in the design process, down to the selection of lighting controls and stainless steel faceplates.Their design aesthetic leans toward the Scandinavian — light and bright, with simple straight lines and pure geometric shapes. The finish flooring is large porcelain tile (24” x 24”) in a neutral grey tone, providing a uniform backdrop against which other materials can stand out. The same tile continues into the shower floor (with a different finish texture for slip-resistance) and up the shower/tub walls (in a smaller size). Heath Classic Field ceramic tile in Modern Blue was used sparingly, to add color at the hall bath vanity backsplash and at the shampoo niches in both bathrooms. Back-painted soda glass in pale blue to match the Heath tile was used at the kitchen backsplash. This same accent color was also used at the front entry atrium door. Kitchen cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and light fixtures are all white, making the kitchen feel more airy and light. Countertops are Caesarstone Blizzard. The owners chose to keep some of the original Eichler elements: the concrete masonry fireplace; the stained tongue-and-groove redwood ceiling decking; and the luan wall paneling. The luan paneling was lightly sanded, cleaned, and re-stained. The owners also kept an added element that was installed by a previous owner: sliding shoji panels at all bedroom windows and sliding glass doors, for both privacy and sun control. Grooves were cut into the new tile flooring for the shoji panels to slide in, creating a more integrated look. Walnut was used to add warmth and contrast at the kitchen bar top and niche, the bathroom vanities, and the window sill/ledge under the kitchen window. This Burlingame Eichler Remodel is a 2,121 sf, 4 bedroom/2 bath home located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane and Yegvenia Torres Zavala Contractor: Jesse Ososki Art Structural Engineer: Emmanuel Pun Photography ©2018 Mariko Reed Location: Burlingame, CA Year completed: 2017

Rethink Refinishing® with a complete cabinet Color Change. This process involves a much more dramatic effect than the other cabinet services such as traditional refinishing, refacing or even replacement. Often the change will involve going from a golden oak or whitewash finish to a cherry, walnut or black tone. You will love the result of this transformation. It’s a great way to give your kitchen a new look and change the entire feel of a room. At 1/3rd the cost of refacing and 1/5th the cost of replacement, you'll love the brilliant results and the cost savings. All of our processes use our Lightspeed Plus® refinishing process which cures instantly with a powerful U.V. light. Our process requires no sanding and all our solutions are virtually odorless – so there’s No Dust. No Mess. No Odor®. With Lightspeed, expect a beautifully refinished kitchen with little to no down time.

Klopf Architecture and Jesse Ososki Art remodeled an existing Eichler atrium home into a brighter, more open, and more functional version of its original self. The goals were to preserve the Eichler look and feel without the need to strictly adhere to it. The scope of work included re-configuring the master bedroom/bath, the kitchen, and the hall bath/laundry area, as well as updating interior finishes throughout to be more sophisticated. The owners are detail-oriented and were very involved in the design process, down to the selection of lighting controls and stainless steel faceplates.Their design aesthetic leans toward the Scandinavian — light and bright, with simple straight lines and pure geometric shapes. The finish flooring is large porcelain tile (24” x 24”) in a neutral grey tone, providing a uniform backdrop against which other materials can stand out. The same tile continues into the shower floor (with a different finish texture for slip-resistance) and up the shower/tub walls (in a smaller size). Heath Classic Field ceramic tile in Modern Blue was used sparingly, to add color at the hall bath vanity backsplash and at the shampoo niches in both bathrooms. Back-painted soda glass in pale blue to match the Heath tile was used at the kitchen backsplash. This same accent color was also used at the front entry atrium door. Kitchen cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and light fixtures are all white, making the kitchen feel more airy and light. Countertops are Caesarstone Blizzard. The owners chose to keep some of the original Eichler elements: the concrete masonry fireplace; the stained tongue-and-groove redwood ceiling decking; and the luan wall paneling. The luan paneling was lightly sanded, cleaned, and re-stained. The owners also kept an added element that was installed by a previous owner: sliding shoji panels at all bedroom windows and sliding glass doors, for both privacy and sun control. Grooves were cut into the new tile flooring for the shoji panels to slide in, creating a more integrated look. Walnut was used to add warmth and contrast at the kitchen bar top and niche, the bathroom vanities, and the window sill/ledge under the kitchen window. This Burlingame Eichler Remodel is a 2,121 sf, 4 bedroom/2 bath home located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane and Yegvenia Torres Zavala Contractor: Jesse Ososki Art Structural Engineer: Emmanuel Pun Photography ©2018 Mariko Reed Location: Burlingame, CA Year completed: 2017

Photo: Heather Banks © 2015 Houzz
Example of an eclectic entryway design in Austin

JxP Multimedia
Example of a mid-sized classic kitchen design in Chicago

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This Glen Ellyn couple wanted to transform their dated kitchen into a more family-friendly space to use on a daily basis for cooking family meals and for entertaining friends. The existing kitchen was quite chopped up with strange soffits and different ceiling heights. To make the space flow in a more logical manner, we borrowed an unused desk area from the adjoining hallway and reconfigured a neighboring bath. Getting it to work on paper was fairly straightforward, but there was a bit of complicated beam work involved as the new kitchen flows through what was an old exterior wall. The new ceiling is now completely flush as we were able to hide the support in the ceiling joists. A new, larger window was added at the sink, the doorway to the room was widened and the resulting space creates a more easy flow from dining room to family room. The clients chose white inset cabinets, white marble tops and an apron sink to keep the space feeling simple yet original to the home's Colonial styling. Ship lap siding on the back of the island and at the pantry storage ceiling, a walnut butcher block, and antique brass details give the space an updated look. Professional stainless appliances are functional and beautiful. In addition to a large built-in fridge and 36" range, a second oven is housed in the island for flexibility. The pantry area has a convenience station that houses the family's espresso machine along with the microwave drawer. Another large bank of cabinets in the same area serves as pantry storage for dry goods. The bathroom was also remodeled as part of this project. The full bath has a vanity, shower and convenient baby changing area. The floor is encaustic tile, a type of concrete tile recognizable by its bold graphics. The mirror and lighting add a few modern touches to keep it in line with the Owner's personal style. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

We introduce to you one of our newer services we are providing here at Kitchen Design Concepts: spaces that just need a little reviving! As of recent, we are taking on projects that are in need of minimal updating, as in, spaces that don’t need a full-on remodel. Yes, you heard right! If your space has good bones, you like the layout of your kitchen, and you just need a few cosmetic changes, then today’s feature is for you! Recently, we updated a space where we did just this! The kitchen was in need of a little love, some fresh paint, and new finishes. And if we’re being honest here, the result looks almost as if the kitchen had a full-on remodel! To learn more about this space and how we did our magic, continue reading below: The Before and After First, see what an impact new finishes can make! The “before” image shows a kitchen with outdated finishes such as the tile countertops, backsplash, and cabinetry finish. The “after” image, is a kitchen that looks almost as if its brand new, the image speaks for itself! Cabinetry With the wooden cabinetry in this kitchen already having great bones, all we needed to do was our refinishing process that involved removing door and drawer fronts, sanding, priming, and painting. The main color of the cabinetry is white (Sherwin Williams Pure White 7005) and as an accent, we applied a deep navy blue that really pops in this space (Sherwin Willaims Naval 6244). As a special design element, we incorporated a natural wooden band across the hood which is subtle but adds an element of surprise. Countertops The original countertops in this space were a 12×12 tile with cracks and discolored grout from all the wear and tear. To replace the countertops, we installed a clean and crisp quartz that is not only durable but easy to maintain (no grout here!). The 3cm countertops are a Cambria quartz in a grey-tone color (Carrick). Backsplash Keeping things simple, yet classic, we installed a 3×6 subway tile from Interceramic. The crisp white pairs well with all the other finishes of the space and really brighten the space up! To spice things up, we paired the white tile with a contrasting grout color (Cape Grey) that matches the countertop. This is a simple method to add interest to your white backsplash! Fixtures and Fittings For the fixtures and fittings of the kitchen, we wanted pieces that made a statement. That’s why we selected this industrial style faucet from Brizo! The faucet is a Brizo LITZE™ PULL-DOWN FAUCET WITH ARC SPOUT AND INDUSTRIAL HANDLE (63044LF-BLGL). The matte black paired with the luxe gold elements really make a statement! To match the gold elements of the faucet, we installed cabinetry hardware from Topknobs in the same gold finish. The hardware is a Channing pull TK743HB. Lastly, the large single bowl sink (who doesn’t want a large sink?!) is a great functional touch to the kitchen. The sink is a Blanco Precision 16″ R10 super single with 16″ Drainer in stainless steel (516216).

We introduce to you one of our newer services we are providing here at Kitchen Design Concepts: spaces that just need a little reviving! As of recent, we are taking on projects that are in need of minimal updating, as in, spaces that don’t need a full-on remodel. Yes, you heard right! If your space has good bones, you like the layout of your kitchen, and you just need a few cosmetic changes, then today’s feature is for you! Recently, we updated a space where we did just this! The kitchen was in need of a little love, some fresh paint, and new finishes. And if we’re being honest here, the result looks almost as if the kitchen had a full-on remodel! To learn more about this space and how we did our magic, continue reading below: The Before and After First, see what an impact new finishes can make! The “before” image shows a kitchen with outdated finishes such as the tile countertops, backsplash, and cabinetry finish. The “after” image, is a kitchen that looks almost as if its brand new, the image speaks for itself! Cabinetry With the wooden cabinetry in this kitchen already having great bones, all we needed to do was our refinishing process that involved removing door and drawer fronts, sanding, priming, and painting. The main color of the cabinetry is white (Sherwin Williams Pure White 7005) and as an accent, we applied a deep navy blue that really pops in this space (Sherwin Willaims Naval 6244). As a special design element, we incorporated a natural wooden band across the hood which is subtle but adds an element of surprise. Countertops The original countertops in this space were a 12×12 tile with cracks and discolored grout from all the wear and tear. To replace the countertops, we installed a clean and crisp quartz that is not only durable but easy to maintain (no grout here!). The 3cm countertops are a Cambria quartz in a grey-tone color (Carrick). Backsplash Keeping things simple, yet classic, we installed a 3×6 subway tile from Interceramic. The crisp white pairs well with all the other finishes of the space and really brighten the space up! To spice things up, we paired the white tile with a contrasting grout color (Cape Grey) that matches the countertop. This is a simple method to add interest to your white backsplash! Fixtures and Fittings For the fixtures and fittings of the kitchen, we wanted pieces that made a statement. That’s why we selected this industrial style faucet from Brizo! The faucet is a Brizo LITZE™ PULL-DOWN FAUCET WITH ARC SPOUT AND INDUSTRIAL HANDLE (63044LF-BLGL). The matte black paired with the luxe gold elements really make a statement! To match the gold elements of the faucet, we installed cabinetry hardware from Topknobs in the same gold finish. The hardware is a Channing pull TK743HB. Lastly, the large single bowl sink (who doesn’t want a large sink?!) is a great functional touch to the kitchen. The sink is a Blanco Precision 16″ R10 super single with 16″ Drainer in stainless steel (516216).

Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized country single-wall medium tone wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen idea in Philadelphia with white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, white appliances, an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, concrete countertops and no island

An example of the hardscaping projects we do. This involved taking out the old stoop and replacing it with this beauty!

Klopf Architecture and Jesse Ososki Art remodeled an existing Eichler atrium home into a brighter, more open, and more functional version of its original self. The goals were to preserve the Eichler look and feel without the need to strictly adhere to it. The scope of work included re-configuring the master bedroom/bath, the kitchen, and the hall bath/laundry area, as well as updating interior finishes throughout to be more sophisticated. The owners are detail-oriented and were very involved in the design process, down to the selection of lighting controls and stainless steel faceplates.Their design aesthetic leans toward the Scandinavian — light and bright, with simple straight lines and pure geometric shapes. The finish flooring is large porcelain tile (24” x 24”) in a neutral grey tone, providing a uniform backdrop against which other materials can stand out. The same tile continues into the shower floor (with a different finish texture for slip-resistance) and up the shower/tub walls (in a smaller size). Heath Classic Field ceramic tile in Modern Blue was used sparingly, to add color at the hall bath vanity backsplash and at the shampoo niches in both bathrooms. Back-painted soda glass in pale blue to match the Heath tile was used at the kitchen backsplash. This same accent color was also used at the front entry atrium door. Kitchen cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and light fixtures are all white, making the kitchen feel more airy and light. Countertops are Caesarstone Blizzard. The owners chose to keep some of the original Eichler elements: the concrete masonry fireplace; the stained tongue-and-groove redwood ceiling decking; and the luan wall paneling. The luan paneling was lightly sanded, cleaned, and re-stained. The owners also kept an added element that was installed by a previous owner: sliding shoji panels at all bedroom windows and sliding glass doors, for both privacy and sun control. Grooves were cut into the new tile flooring for the shoji panels to slide in, creating a more integrated look. Walnut was used to add warmth and contrast at the kitchen bar top and niche, the bathroom vanities, and the window sill/ledge under the kitchen window. This Burlingame Eichler Remodel is a 2,121 sf, 4 bedroom/2 bath home located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane and Yegvenia Torres Zavala Contractor: Jesse Ososki Art Structural Engineer: Emmanuel Pun Photography ©2018 Mariko Reed Location: Burlingame, CA Year completed: 2017

We introduce to you one of our newer services we are providing here at Kitchen Design Concepts: spaces that just need a little reviving! As of recent, we are taking on projects that are in need of minimal updating, as in, spaces that don’t need a full-on remodel. Yes, you heard right! If your space has good bones, you like the layout of your kitchen, and you just need a few cosmetic changes, then today’s feature is for you! Recently, we updated a space where we did just this! The kitchen was in need of a little love, some fresh paint, and new finishes. And if we’re being honest here, the result looks almost as if the kitchen had a full-on remodel! To learn more about this space and how we did our magic, continue reading below: The Before and After First, see what an impact new finishes can make! The “before” image shows a kitchen with outdated finishes such as the tile countertops, backsplash, and cabinetry finish. The “after” image, is a kitchen that looks almost as if its brand new, the image speaks for itself! Cabinetry With the wooden cabinetry in this kitchen already having great bones, all we needed to do was our refinishing process that involved removing door and drawer fronts, sanding, priming, and painting. The main color of the cabinetry is white (Sherwin Williams Pure White 7005) and as an accent, we applied a deep navy blue that really pops in this space (Sherwin Willaims Naval 6244). As a special design element, we incorporated a natural wooden band across the hood which is subtle but adds an element of surprise. Countertops The original countertops in this space were a 12×12 tile with cracks and discolored grout from all the wear and tear. To replace the countertops, we installed a clean and crisp quartz that is not only durable but easy to maintain (no grout here!). The 3cm countertops are a Cambria quartz in a grey-tone color (Carrick). Backsplash Keeping things simple, yet classic, we installed a 3×6 subway tile from Interceramic. The crisp white pairs well with all the other finishes of the space and really brighten the space up! To spice things up, we paired the white tile with a contrasting grout color (Cape Grey) that matches the countertop. This is a simple method to add interest to your white backsplash! Fixtures and Fittings For the fixtures and fittings of the kitchen, we wanted pieces that made a statement. That’s why we selected this industrial style faucet from Brizo! The faucet is a Brizo LITZE™ PULL-DOWN FAUCET WITH ARC SPOUT AND INDUSTRIAL HANDLE (63044LF-BLGL). The matte black paired with the luxe gold elements really make a statement! To match the gold elements of the faucet, we installed cabinetry hardware from Topknobs in the same gold finish. The hardware is a Channing pull TK743HB. Lastly, the large single bowl sink (who doesn’t want a large sink?!) is a great functional touch to the kitchen. The sink is a Blanco Precision 16″ R10 super single with 16″ Drainer in stainless steel (516216).

Claudia Bell
Home design - coastal home design idea in Miami

Photo by Kolanowski Studio
Minimalist bathroom photo in Houston

This very social couple were tying the knot and looking to create a space to host their friends and community, while also adding much needed living space to their 900 square foot cottage. The couple had a strong emphasis on growing edible and medicinal plants. With many friends from a community garden project they were involved in and years of learning about permaculture, they wanted to incorporate many of the elements that the permaculture movement advocates for. We came up with a California native and edible garden that incorporates three composting systems, a gray water system, rain water harvesting, a cob pizza oven, and outdoor kitchen. A majority of the materials incorporated into the hardscape were found on site or salvaged within 20-mile of the property. The garden also had amenities like an outhouse and shower for guests they would put up in the converted garage. Coming into this project there was and An old clawfoot bathtub on site was used as a worm composting bin, and for no other reason than the cuteness factor, the bath tub composter had to stay. Added to that was a compost tumbler, and last but not least we erected an outhouse with a composting toilet system (The Nature's Head Composting Toilet). We developed a gray water system incorporating the water that came out of the washing machine and from the outdoor shower to help water bananas, gingers, and canailles. All the down spouts coming off the roof were sent into depressions in the front yard. The depressions were planted with carex grass, which can withstand, and even thrive on, submersion in water that rain events bring to the swaled-out area. Aesthetically, carex reads as a lawn space in keeping with the cottage feeling of the home. As with any full-fledged permaculture garden, an element of natural building needed to be incorporated. So, the heart and hearth of the garden is a cob pizza oven going into an outdoor kitchen with a built-in bench. Cob is a natural building technique that involves sculpting a mixture of sand, soil, and straw around an internal structure. In this case, the internal structure is comprised of an old built-in brick incinerator, and rubble collected on site. Besides using the collected rubble as a base for the cob structure, other salvaged elements comprise major features of the project: the front fence was reconstructed from the preexisting fence; a majority of the stone edging was created by stones found while clearing the landscape in preparation for construction; the arbor was constructed from old wash line poles found on site; broken bricks pulled from another project were mixed with concrete and cast into vegetable beds, creating durable insulated planters while reducing the amount of concrete used ( and they also just have a unique effect); pathways and patio areas were laid using concrete broken out of the driveway and previous pathways. (When a little more broken concrete was needed, we busted out an old pad at another project a few blocks away.) Far from a perfectly polished garden, this landscape now serves as a lush and inviting space for my clients, their friends and family to gather and enjoy each other’s company. Days after construction was finished the couple hosted their wedding reception in the garden—everyone danced, drank and celebrated, christening the garden and the union!