Making a real impression by designing & building with exceptional people is exactly the effect JL Design & the client as owner-builder have achieved with “Scarborough House” in Scarborough, NSW. The brief required the dwelling to take maximum advantage of stunning views over the ocean & nearby escarpment cliffs. The residence was also to be a contemporary modernist four bedroom family dwelling, maximising built external living & pool areas. The client was extensively involved with the overall design, & carried out material selection, interior detailing and selection of fixtures and fittings. This collective method guaranteed a result where the client as the builder, through continued personal investment throughout the design and construction achieved a stunning result. The concrete, steelwork, windows, timber & various forms of cladding, joinery and concealed lighting are all custom made hand crafted elements. The design called for minimal tolerances, requiring a high level of skill and cooperation between trades. “Scarborough House” features BlueScope Colorbond monument matt ribbed wall cladding with rendered & ‘rendered look’ areas in off-white. A vertical feature hardwood timber screen to the side of the entry softens the ‘industrial’ feel, giving a modernist external appearance. Carefully calculated overhangs allow a passive solar solution to heating & cooling, with efficient reverse-cycle air conditioning required only during weather extremes. Internally, timber floors to the upper living areas give a feel of comfort & warmth. The warm, substantial character of the dwelling is carefully composed by means of the clarity of the detailing, a palette of tactical natural materials and the careful manipulation of light.

Making a real impression by designing & building with exceptional people is exactly the effect JL Design & the client as owner-builder have achieved with “Scarborough House” in Scarborough, NSW. The brief required the dwelling to take maximum advantage of stunning views over the ocean & nearby escarpment cliffs. The residence was also to be a contemporary modernist four bedroom family dwelling, maximising built external living & pool areas. The client was extensively involved with the overall design, & carried out material selection, interior detailing and selection of fixtures and fittings. This collective method guaranteed a result where the client as the builder, through continued personal investment throughout the design and construction achieved a stunning result. The concrete, steelwork, windows, timber & various forms of cladding, joinery and concealed lighting are all custom made hand crafted elements. The design called for minimal tolerances, requiring a high level of skill and cooperation between trades. “Scarborough House” features BlueScope Colorbond monument matt ribbed wall cladding with rendered & ‘rendered look’ areas in off-white. A vertical feature hardwood timber screen to the side of the entry softens the ‘industrial’ feel, giving a modernist external appearance. Carefully calculated overhangs allow a passive solar solution to heating & cooling, with efficient reverse-cycle air conditioning required only during weather extremes. Internally, timber floors to the upper living areas give a feel of comfort & warmth. The warm, substantial character of the dwelling is carefully composed by means of the clarity of the detailing, a palette of tactical natural materials and the careful manipulation of light.

Was fortunate to work with Nathan Web and Kevin Walker of Reader & Swartz Architects on lighting this unique residential project. "The project involved working with an 1801 log cabin in rural West Virginia. The new additions were conceived of as a series of cabin and shed forms which interconnected to make modern open spaces, as well as to embrace the West Virginia fields, forests, and mountains" Reader & Swartz Architects, P.C.

Savannah embraces a plethora of styles and among these are designed to exceed a definite niche and can only be depicted as futuristic. It celebrates the triumph of technological advancement, involving a myriad options of modern gadgets embedded in the dining area. Characterized by its strong chromaticism, long dynamic lines, the design suggests motion and flow. Asymmetry is one of the prominent key features. It comes in walls and corners in the form of angular lines, amongst its blended features include strong geometric design, coordination between neutral background and accents. The rooms incorporate a touch of individuality and rigor in design, avant-garde, and freedom of expression.

This private residence involved construction of a modern architectural style estate property in Highland Park, Texas. Dee Brown Inc’s role came into play late in the project, when corrections were needed to some specialty stonework. The home’s center is formed around the main entry. The floorplan is largely open, but parallel core wall areas serve to define the foyer, kitchen, dining, and living areas. As key areas, the architect put special focus on materials selection for the core walls. It was decided that Indiana limestone would be the finish, and that the cladding panels would all have unique continuous horizontal grooves. Material was received and installed by the original subcontractor. Upon seeing the completed work, it was evident to the architect and owner that grooves in the fabricated material were not consistent, and that the installation process had left numerous chips to the panels. It was at this point that the partially completed work was removed, and the second fabricator/installer was contacted. Dee Brown Inc ordered the Indiana limestones slabs. There, special care was taken to hold tight tolerances to the horizontal grooves as well as to the typical cut-to-size aspects. Erection of these mechanically set panels was done very carefully. The result was a clean finished product with none of the tolerance and chipping issues of the original installation. Dee Brown, Inc also created and installed special stone finishes at the adjacent half-bath. Semi-precious white onyx was transformed into a lavatory top/bowl assembly, water-closet wall cladding, and even tissue and towel holders.

This project involved several unique conditions - firstly, a new 3-car garage was to be built with a large yoga studio above. The clients were also looking for an office, a kitchenette and bathroom, a dog washing room, a plant potting area, several storage rooms both interior and exterior, and all connected to an existing mid-century modern house with an incredible view that was not to be obstructed... all within a relatively tight budget. Designed with Winslow Architects Inc., the resulting structure is a highly modern take on a pure rectangle. Through contemporary materials including exposed concrete, Japanese Shou Sugi Ban siding, and minimal trim, the pure geometry of the form creates an elegant yet reserved addition to an already minimal house. The project is currently under construction.

This project involved several unique conditions - firstly, a new 3-car garage was to be built with a large yoga studio above. The clients were also looking for an office, a kitchenette and bathroom, a dog washing room, a plant potting area, several storage rooms both interior and exterior, and all connected to an existing mid-century modern house with an incredible view that was not to be obstructed... all within a relatively tight budget. Designed with Winslow Architects Inc., the resulting structure is a highly modern take on a pure rectangle. Through contemporary materials including exposed concrete, Japanese Shou Sugi Ban siding, and minimal trim, the pure geometry of the form creates an elegant yet reserved addition to an already minimal house. The project is currently under construction.

Savannah embraces a plethora of styles and among these are designed to exceed a definite niche and can only be depicted as futuristic. It celebrates the triumph of technological advancement, involving a myriad options of modern gadgets embedded in the dining area. Characterized by its strong chromaticism, long dynamic lines, the design suggests motion and flow. Asymmetry is one of the prominent key features. It comes in walls and corners in the form of angular lines, amongst its blended features include strong geometric design, coordination between neutral background and accents. The rooms incorporate a touch of individuality and rigor in design, avant-garde, and freedom of expression.

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

Phil and Rocio, little did you know how perfect your timing was when you came to us and asked for a “small but perfect home”. Fertile ground indeed as we thought about working on something like a precious gem, or what we’re calling a NEW Jewel. So many of our clients now are building smaller homes because they simply don’t need a bigger one. Seems smart for many reasons: less vacuuming, less heating and cooling, less taxes. And for many, less strain on the finances as we get to the point where retirement shines bright and hopeful. For the jewel of a home we wanted to start with 1,000 square feet. Enough room for a pleasant common area, a couple of away rooms for bed and work, a couple of bathrooms and yes to a mudroom and pantry. (For Phil and Rocio’s, we ended up with 1,140 square feet.) The Jewel would not compromise on design intent, envelope or craft intensity. This is the big benefit of the smaller footprint, of course. By using a pure and simple form for the house volume, a true jewel would have enough money in the budget for the highest quality materials, net-zero levels of insulation, triple pane windows, and a high-efficiency heat pump. Additionally, the doors would be handcrafted, the cabinets solid wood, the finishes exquisite, and craftsmanship shudderingly excellent. Our many thanks to Phil and Rocio for including us in their dream home project. It is truly a Jewel! From the homeowners (read their full note here): “It is quite difficult to express the deep sense of gratitude we feel towards everyone that contributed to the Jewel…many of which I don’t have the ability to send this to, or even be able to name. The artistic, creative flair combined with real-life practicality is a major component of our place we will love for many years to come. Please pass on our thanks to everyone that was involved. We look forward to visits from any and all as time goes by." –Phil and Rocio Read more about the first steps for this Jewel on our blog. Reclaimed Wood, Kitchen Cabinetry, Bedroom Door: Pioneer Millworks Entry door: NEWwoodworks Professional Photos: Loren Nelson Photography

A young couple just bought their first townhouse in Herndon, VA. This is a 30-year-old home with no changes ever done to it. Entering from the foyer, the living room is on the right side, followed by dining room on left back end and two partition wall separating kitchen on right back corner form rest of main level. Both of this partition wall were bearing walls. Filled with duct chases and plumbing for second floor bathroom. The wall between the kitchen and dining room has a support beam embedded in it. Their first wish was to modernize the space for their young and hip lifestyle. Getting rid of all bulkheads, pantry closet, and partition walls. Plan was simple, yet very involved. The main trunk of HVAC was relocated through lower level garage and laundry and carried in a new chase to feed the second-floor bedrooms. All plumbing soil stack was relocated int a false wall behind cabinetry. Then implant two structure beams causing to open up to main level living room and dining room. The sink and dishwasher were relocated to east wall, moving the kitchen window to left allowing placement on new fridge. A big island was placed in middle of this space given them a place to serve and hang out. Carefully matching the Brazilian cherry flooring previously used in dining room area for new kitchen space. We have added recess lights and pendent light to bright up this kitchen. Designers have used dark cherry cabinetry with a sleek looking granite top, giving the couple a dream come through kitchen. Loving every minute of it, she enjoys each and every gathering at her home.

Laundry chores involve more than just washing and drying clothes. With careful planning and effective organization, your laundry room can become a streamlined and pleasant space. Our solutions optimize your laundry area by providing countertop convenience for sorting and folding clothes, making tasks smoother and more enjoyable. Hidden storage in the form of enclosed cabinets above or around the machines keeps laundry supplies within reach but out of sight, while comprehensive storage options like cabinets and drawers accommodate everyday items. Tall cabinets store bulkier or seasonal items, ensuring the room remains clutter-free. To further enhance functionality, we offer quick ironing solutions with pull-down ironing boards for convenient touch-ups. Hanging solutions, including pull-down or stationary rods, make it easy to hang clothes and keep them wrinkle-free. Versatile valet rods provide extra hanging space and can be tucked away when not needed. Additionally, pull-out baskets or hampers help maintain cleanliness by keeping dirty laundry items separated. Large hampers simplify sorting for whites, colors, and other categories, promoting a well-organized laundry process. At The Tailored Closet, we specialize in maximizing space and style in laundry room designs. Our expertise ensures that your laundry area is both efficient and elegant. Let us help transform your laundry room into a well-organized and attractive space. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

Plantique, INC http://www.plantique.com Entry Name: Classic Fireside Getaway 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Hardscaping-Residential $30,000-$60,000 Award Level: Bronze Photo Description: The initial call from these homeowners was about a drainage issue. After having installed new roofing, siding, and a new porch enclosure, it was discovered that the original piping for the downspouts had failed. A few recent rainstorms had left a large pool of water behind the house. The new gutters and downspouts were now properly channeling water into a sub-surface piping system that no longer functioned. Obviously this had to be fixed, but after some further discussions, it was suggested that if a cost-effective solution could be found, perhaps a patio could be created along with the drainage solution. This would make the space between the porch and the pool more useful. The surfaces would have to be as kid-friendly as possible, as the homeowners foresaw frequent visits by their grandchildren. The flow of the spaces would have to be such that small bikes would be able to easily maneuver around chairs and tables. After a site study was conducted, several issues were discovered. Pertaining to the drainage issue, it was determined that the grade sloped directly toward the porch from the pool. This not only channeled water toward the house and porch, but created a dam in an already shallow drainage swale that trapped water off to the side of the porch. Since the soil in this area is predominantly clay, water could sit in that area for days until it drained away. On the aesthetic side, a good part of the house’s façade was brick, the porch floor was brick, the small patio and walkways were brick, and the seating wall next to the pool was brick; there was a lot of brick. The challenge would be to find a cost-effective material that would contrast will with the brick, while creating a functional patio space that also facilitated water drainage. The solution involved a significant re-grading of the area between the pool and the house, along with the installation of a completely new drain system to channel roof water away from the area. Working with the fixed points of the porch and foundation levels of the home, the slope that pitched toward the house was cut into to create a positive pitch away from the house. This created 20 in. high cut at the furthest point from the porch. To retain this, a segmental retaining wall block was used to form a curved seating wall around a mortared brick fire ring, perfect for evening campfires and marshmallow roasting with the grandchildren. Prior to the patio construction, new subsurface PVC piping was installed to channel water away from the house, under the patio, and to daylight about 100 ft. further into the side yard where it could properly drain. To construct the patio, the existing dry laid brick walks and patio were recycled as a border around a gray colored concrete paver that mimics the look of more expensive PA Bluestone, an often used companion to brick. The smooth surface texture and tight joint provide a barefoot friendly walking surface that stays cooler in the hot summer sun. The patio itself is also pitched so as to drain runoff to the lower end of the yard in case of a failure in the drain piping. Along with providing several clear pathways between the porch, pool, and driveway the new patio includes an open air dining area, a fire pit area, and a seating/lounging area (not yet furnished at the time of the photo) for larger family gatherings or more intimate dinners and fire-side relaxation. Photo Credit: Plantique, Mike Wimmer

A young couple just bought their first townhouse in Herndon, VA. This is a 30-year-old home with no changes ever done to it. Entering from the foyer, the living room is on the right side, followed by dining room on left back end and two partition wall separating kitchen on right back corner form rest of main level. Both of this partition wall were bearing walls. Filled with duct chases and plumbing for second floor bathroom. The wall between the kitchen and dining room has a support beam embedded in it. Their first wish was to modernize the space for their young and hip lifestyle. Getting rid of all bulkheads, pantry closet, and partition walls. Plan was simple, yet very involved. The main trunk of HVAC was relocated through lower level garage and laundry and carried in a new chase to feed the second-floor bedrooms. All plumbing soil stack was relocated int a false wall behind cabinetry. Then implant two structure beams causing to open up to main level living room and dining room. The sink and dishwasher were relocated to east wall, moving the kitchen window to left allowing placement on new fridge. A big island was placed in middle of this space given them a place to serve and hang out. Carefully matching the Brazilian cherry flooring previously used in dining room area for new kitchen space. We have added recess lights and pendent light to bright up this kitchen. Designers have used dark cherry cabinetry with a sleek looking granite top, giving the couple a dream come through kitchen. Loving every minute of it, she enjoys each and every gathering at her home.

LEED Certification Level: Platinum. Builder: R & S Engineering & Construction. The Cavanaugh Residence is a contemporary split level with a split personality. Totally designed from the ground up to minimize impact and maximize energy and water efficiency, its beautiful facade belies its hard-working, high-producing systems, earning it a LEED Platinum score of 116.5, and a HERS rating of minus 22. The 2774 square foot home produces over 100 per cent of its power with a 10.8 kw pv system, and captures 100 per cent of its freshwater needs from the curved metal roofs through an engineered collection and purification system, stored in an integrated concrete cistern. Constructed of locally made SIP panels on an infill waterfront lot, the home is oriented to maximize the production of the pv panels. Six inch SIP panels work together with a highly reflective, highly emmisive cool standing seam roof, icynene insulation in ceiling and floors, and carefully placed high efficiency windows and doors to create a tightly sealed environment. The 17-seer Trane heat pump variable speed compressors and TAM 7 air handlers, along with a whole house dehumidifier and fresh air intake provide a comfortable, clean indoor environment while using little energy. In the shoulder seasons, natural ventilation cools the home with fresh breezes drawn from lower windows in each room flowing through the curved ceilings to clerestory windows at the top of the house. Natural daylighting, with windows placed in corners and high clerestories, bounce the abundant natural light so that the owners use the interior LED lighting primarily at night. Windows were sited to frame views of the neighboring park and water, and capture the light, but represent a very low percentage of glazing to wall to conserve energy. Primarily native, xeriscaped turfless landscaping sips reclaimed water from its drip and bubbler irrigiation system, and requires little trimming or chemicals. Established trees, protected during construction, shade the home, FSC certified decks, and yard, providing a cool place to enjoy the outdoors at any time of the day, even in Florida's summer heat. Rainwater is diverted from the bay through the engineered collection and filtration system to an integrated concrete cistern hidden beneath the decks. Abundant Florida rainwater supplies 100 per cent of the home's needs, including drinking, bathing, and cleaning. Naturally soft, the highly filtered and UV purified water requires no chemical treatment or water softener. Coupled with minimal hardscape and permeable drive and walkways, almost all ground water remains on the lot, and out of storm sewers and bay runoffs. Designed as a forever home for this active retired couple, an open floor plan provides diagonal interior views along with great circulation space. Wide hallways and doors, curbless showers, an elevator, and extra blocking in the walls for grab rails insures the couple of being able to use their home even if physical disabilities arise. The home's footprint is minimized by building over the conditioned crawlspace and over-sized garage, and the finished floor height, at least two feet above flood code requirements, significantly reduces insurance costs while maximizing storage space for camping and water sports equipment. Materials, fixtures and appliances were carefully selected for energy and water efficiency, local production where possible, recycled content/recyclability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The owners were very involved in vetting and materials selections, and assisted in just-in-time purchasing to minimize waste. Scrap materials were sorted daily for re-use elsewhere in the project (blocking, concrete forms, drywall scraps as acoustical insulation in interior walls, etc.), resulting in a tiny waste pile at the end of a dumpster-free project. Concrete waste was hauled to a local recycler to become road base, and extra useable materials were returned to the vendor or donated to Habitat Restore. Cost-effective choices, and careful planning, saved significant dollars in construction cost as well as landfill space. One of the biggest challenges was finding qualified subcontractors who would work within the guidelines. With the help of our LEED consultant and meetings and explanations, most subcontractors not only bought into the ideas readily, but offered up new ideas. Highly skilled and professional, the team of subs, LEED consultant, and contractor proved that LEED construction is excellent construction. The team, the owners, and I also found that LEED construction makes great economic sense. Most materials (other than increased insulation and photovoltaic panels) cost no more, and sometimes less, than those employed in construction of a lesser standard. The owners have been living in the home for a year now, and are thrilled with the results. No power bill. No water bill. Extremely low insurance bill. Minimal ground maintenance. No fabric softener. Reduced use of soap, detergents, and shampoos and cleaning supplies. Less time cleaning with spot-free rainwater. Careful planning and materials selection brought the project in under budget, and the home operates at an extremely low cost, both to the homeowners, and the environment. Who wouldn't be thrilled?

This extensive project involved both an addition and a full renovation of a beautiful 1920s Craftsman home. By adding 200 sqft of living space to the back of the house, we created a stunning primary bedroom complete with a walk-in closet and a luxurious bathroom. Originally a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom house with a less-than-optimal layout, the reconfiguration resulted in a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, making better use of the available space. The guest bathroom now features a tub surrounded by subway tiles and a marble herringbone floor. Elegant wainscoting paneling and subtle floral wallpaper add a touch of sophistication. The primary bathroom showcases a corner walk-in shower with Celine and Marin tiles from Bedrosians. A custom marble slab forms the shower dam, and the herringbone floor design enhances the luxurious feel. Classic brass fixtures and an arched mirror flanked by sconce lights add timeless elegance. The primary bedroom boasts long, narrow windows that flood the room with natural light. In the nursery, a colorful wallpaper creates a cheerful and vibrant atmosphere. The entire home underwent a comprehensive upgrade, including a new roof, an energy-efficient HVAC system, and a complete overhaul of the plumbing. Custom molding and casing details around doors and windows faithfully replicate the home's original 1920s design, showcasing exceptional finish carpentry skills. In the hallway, custom cabinets were created to conceal the laundry machines and provide convenient folding and storage space. The exterior addition required custom siding work to match the original siding and trim, preserving the home's historical character. Oak hardwood flooring was refinished and replaced where needed. The overall design of this project is a testament to craftsmanship, featuring numerous custom details and intricate work that honor the home's original character while updating it to meet today's luxury standards. This Craftsman revival beautifully blends historical preservation with modern elegance, creating a timeless and inviting home.

Was fortunate to work with Nathan Web and Kevin Walker of Reader & Swartz Architects on lighting this unique residential project. "The project involved working with an 1801 log cabin in rural West Virginia. The new additions were conceived of as a series of cabin and shed forms which interconnected to make modern open spaces, as well as to embrace the West Virginia fields, forests, and mountains" Reader & Swartz Architects, P.C.

Striking Modern Transformation: From Bungalow to Two-Story Home This image showcases the impressive transformation of a small bungalow into a modern two-story residence. The design cleverly integrates the original structure, retaining 50% of the existing exterior walls, while dramatically expanding both upwards and outwards. The lower level features a rich, dark brick facade, hinting at the original bungalow's footprint. Above, the new second story makes a bold architectural statement with a contrasting dark grey frame encasing large, geometric windows and warm wood paneling. This juxtaposition of materials and forms creates a visually dynamic and contemporary aesthetic. The conversion also involved underpinning the basement to maximize living space below grade and adding an extension to the back of the house, further expanding the home's square footage. The front entrance is marked by a sleek, light wood door, and concrete steps lead up from the driveway. A modern wooden fence encloses a small front yard with a patch of green grass. Key Features Highlighting the Conversion: Conversion of a small bungalow into a two-story house Retention of 50% of original exterior walls Underpinned basement Addition to the back of the house Modern second-story addition with large geometric windows and wood paneling Contrasting dark brick on the original lower level Sleek front entrance and landscaping