The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

Chic is a French word associated with stylishness, while Rustic means related to, or suitable for the country.Together, Rustic Chic is an interior design alchemy, the chic suggesting culture, fashion and trendiness, while the Rustic element idealizes a natural pastoral charm. This style tends to reclaim the old, and reinvent materials characterized by imperfect finishes. Rough-hewn finishes, marks, divots, scratches and imperfections are purposeful. The materials themselves often provide historical reference (either real or imagined) and are incorporated to balance hardness (think steel, iron and brick) with the softness of modern furniture and softgoods. Exposed brick walls can be a key component of this look, but wallpapers can do the job if you aren’t fortunate enough to have the real thing. Scaffold planks, exposed conduit, timber and fencing can be added to create a depth of character; and when paired with modern styled furnishings and accoutrements – this is a fresh, nostalgic minded trend that we’ll be seeing well through 2019.

The owners of this property had a very specific look in mind for what was originally a remodel/addition project. On seeing the original concept sketches, however, they loved the design and decided to build a completely new house on the existing site. Situated with views of the landmark Camelback Mountain, this Territorial is wholly appropriate to its context. Clean modern lines, deep set windows, and a significant use of stone and exposed wood sets the tone for this southwestern home. Massing and the juxtaposition of strong vertical with horizontal detail elements create drama while remaining true to the aesthetic. Custom-cut wood outriggers define the roofline, adding drama and contrast to the exterior elevations. Privacy being a key component of the scope, the design incorporates a large interior courtyard beyond the rustic entry doors and thick exterior walls. Using a double-framed wall method provided the look of heavy adobe walls without the cost. Inside, intricate yet rough-hewn wooded trusses are a focal point in the living and dining rooms, with the tongue and groove ceilings stained to match. The steel hardware was designed specifically for use in this home.

Chic is a French word associated with stylishness, while Rustic means related to, or suitable for the country.Together, Rustic Chic is an interior design alchemy, the chic suggesting culture, fashion and trendiness, while the Rustic element idealizes a natural pastoral charm. This style tends to reclaim the old, and reinvent materials characterized by imperfect finishes. Rough-hewn finishes, marks, divots, scratches and imperfections are purposeful. The materials themselves often provide historical reference (either real or imagined) and are incorporated to balance hardness (think steel, iron and brick) with the softness of modern furniture and softgoods. Exposed brick walls can be a key component of this look, but wallpapers can do the job if you aren’t fortunate enough to have the real thing. Scaffold planks, exposed conduit, timber and fencing can be added to create a depth of character; and when paired with modern styled furnishings and accoutrements – this is a fresh, nostalgic minded trend that we’ll be seeing well through 2019.

Image provided by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product name: Specialty Lighting Complimenting our Antique Limestone. Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Lighting or illumination is the deliberate use of light to achieve a practical or aesthetic effect. Lighting includes the use of both artificial light sources like lamps and light fixtures, as well as natural illumination by capturing daylight. Day-lighting (using windows, skylights, or light shelves) is sometimes used as the main source of light during daytime in buildings. Proper lighting can enhance task performance, improve the appearance of an area, or have positive psychological effects on occupants. Indoor lighting is usually accomplished using light fixtures, and is a key part of interior design. Lighting can also be an intrinsic component of landscape projects.

The remarkable Greek inspired indoor pool facility has a blend of contemporary rectilinear components with Greek-Roman architectural elements and finishes, such as the over-extending, ancient-style aqueduct that transitions from the spa into the pool, and the hand carved fire-water features at each end of the room. The aqueduct is a key relevance to the style which portrays an ancient cultural method of elutriating stagnant bath water with a continuous supply of fresh water. Each elaborately hand carved feature sets a mood of Greek architectural expression in this space. The two fire-water features at each end of the pool and all of the column structural support depict a ‘Doric’ style consisting of channeled columns. Also, to enhance this space with a full perspective of Greek-Roman style, the convex ceiling depicts a vision of an opened-ceiling that reveals a fully animated Greek-mythological star setting created by fiber optic lighting. Geothermal technology is the primary source for heating and cooling the pool and spa. Although they appear to be one body of water, they are independent so the spa can be maintained at 103degrees all year round. Photography: Daniel Driensky

The remarkable Greek inspired indoor pool facility has a blend of contemporary rectilinear components with Greek-Roman architectural elements and finishes, such as the over-extending, ancient-style aqueduct that transitions from the spa into the pool, and the hand carved fire-water features at each end of the room. The aqueduct is a key relevance to the style which portrays an ancient cultural method of elutriating stagnant bath water with a continuous supply of fresh water. Each elaborately hand carved feature sets a mood of Greek architectural expression in this space. The two fire-water features at each end of the pool and all of the column structural support depict a ‘Doric’ style consisting of channeled columns. Also, to enhance this space with a full perspective of Greek-Roman style, the convex ceiling depicts a vision of an opened-ceiling that reveals a fully animated Greek-mythological star setting created by fiber optic lighting. Geothermal technology is the primary source for heating and cooling the pool and spa. Although they appear to be one body of water, they are independent so the spa can be maintained at 103degrees all year round. Photography: Daniel Driensky

Inspiration for a large timeless l-shaped porcelain tile utility room remodel with a drop-in sink, white cabinets, granite countertops, blue walls, a stacked washer/dryer and recessed-panel cabinets

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

Small Craftsman remodel featuring exposed new trusses and beams, wood cabinetry and stained glass panels. Nature is the key componant, with green, browns, golds and featuring rock, and tree leaded glass. Kitchen island has an olive colored island with green slabs, the range backsplash tile is custom painted. His and her counters in the master bath. Location: Montecito, Santa Barbara, CA. Designed by Maraya Interior Design. From their beautiful resort town of Ojai, they serve clients in Montecito, Hope Ranch, Malibu, Westlake and Calabasas, across the tri-county areas of Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles, south to Hidden Hills- north through Solvang and more.

The remarkable Greek inspired indoor pool facility has a blend of contemporary rectilinear components with Greek-Roman architectural elements and finishes, such as the over-extending, ancient-style aqueduct that transitions from the spa into the pool, and the hand carved fire-water features at each end of the room. The aqueduct is a key relevance to the style which portrays an ancient cultural method of elutriating stagnant bath water with a continuous supply of fresh water. Each elaborately hand carved feature sets a mood of Greek architectural expression in this space. The two fire-water features at each end of the pool and all of the column structural support depict a ‘Doric’ style consisting of channeled columns. Also, to enhance this space with a full perspective of Greek-Roman style, the convex ceiling depicts a vision of an opened-ceiling that reveals a fully animated Greek-mythological star setting created by fiber optic lighting. Geothermal technology is the primary source for heating and cooling the pool and spa. Although they appear to be one body of water, they are independent so the spa can be maintained at 103degrees all year round. Photography: Daniel Driensky

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

Image provided by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product name: Specialty Lighting Complimenting our Antique Limestone. Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Lighting or illumination is the deliberate use of light to achieve a practical or aesthetic effect. Lighting includes the use of both artificial light sources like lamps and light fixtures, as well as natural illumination by capturing daylight. Day-lighting (using windows, skylights, or light shelves) is sometimes used as the main source of light during daytime in buildings. Proper lighting can enhance task performance, improve the appearance of an area, or have positive psychological effects on occupants. Indoor lighting is usually accomplished using light fixtures, and is a key part of interior design. Lighting can also be an intrinsic component of landscape projects.

Designer: Jan Kepler Cabinetry: Plato Woodwork Counter top: White Pearl Quartzite from Pacific Shore Stones Counter top fabrication: Pyramid Marble, Santa Barbara Backsplash Tile: Walker Zanger from C.W. Quinn Photographs by Elliott Johnson

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

Image provided by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product name: Specialty Lighting Complimenting our Antique Limestone. Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Lighting or illumination is the deliberate use of light to achieve a practical or aesthetic effect. Lighting includes the use of both artificial light sources like lamps and light fixtures, as well as natural illumination by capturing daylight. Day-lighting (using windows, skylights, or light shelves) is sometimes used as the main source of light during daytime in buildings. Proper lighting can enhance task performance, improve the appearance of an area, or have positive psychological effects on occupants. Indoor lighting is usually accomplished using light fixtures, and is a key part of interior design. Lighting can also be an intrinsic component of landscape projects.

Image provided by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product name: Specialty Lighting Complimenting our Antique Limestone. Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Lighting or illumination is the deliberate use of light to achieve a practical or aesthetic effect. Lighting includes the use of both artificial light sources like lamps and light fixtures, as well as natural illumination by capturing daylight. Day-lighting (using windows, skylights, or light shelves) is sometimes used as the main source of light during daytime in buildings. Proper lighting can enhance task performance, improve the appearance of an area, or have positive psychological effects on occupants. Indoor lighting is usually accomplished using light fixtures, and is a key part of interior design. Lighting can also be an intrinsic component of landscape projects.

Image provided by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product name: Specialty Lighting Complimenting our Antique Limestone. Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Lighting or illumination is the deliberate use of light to achieve a practical or aesthetic effect. Lighting includes the use of both artificial light sources like lamps and light fixtures, as well as natural illumination by capturing daylight. Day-lighting (using windows, skylights, or light shelves) is sometimes used as the main source of light during daytime in buildings. Proper lighting can enhance task performance, improve the appearance of an area, or have positive psychological effects on occupants. Indoor lighting is usually accomplished using light fixtures, and is a key part of interior design. Lighting can also be an intrinsic component of landscape projects.