Originally built in 1990 the Heady Lakehouse began as a 2,800SF family retreat and now encompasses over 5,635SF. It is located on a steep yet welcoming lot overlooking a cove on Lake Hartwell that pulls you in through retaining walls wrapped with White Brick into a courtyard laid with concrete pavers in an Ashlar Pattern. This whole home renovation allowed us the opportunity to completely enhance the exterior of the home with all new LP Smartside painted with Amherst Gray with trim to match the Quaker new bone white windows for a subtle contrast. You enter the home under a vaulted tongue and groove white washed ceiling facing an entry door surrounded by White brick. Once inside you’re encompassed by an abundance of natural light flooding in from across the living area from the 9’ triple door with transom windows above. As you make your way into the living area the ceiling opens up to a coffered ceiling which plays off of the 42” fireplace that is situated perpendicular to the dining area. The open layout provides a view into the kitchen as well as the sunroom with floor to ceiling windows boasting panoramic views of the lake. Looking back you see the elegant touches to the kitchen with Quartzite tops, all brass hardware to match the lighting throughout, and a large 4’x8’ Santorini Blue painted island with turned legs to provide a note of color. The owner’s suite is situated separate to one side of the home allowing a quiet retreat for the homeowners. Details such as the nickel gap accented bed wall, brass wall mounted bed-side lamps, and a large triple window complete the bedroom. Access to the study through the master bedroom further enhances the idea of a private space for the owners to work. It’s bathroom features clean white vanities with Quartz counter tops, brass hardware and fixtures, an obscure glass enclosed shower with natural light, and a separate toilet room. The left side of the home received the largest addition which included a new over-sized 3 bay garage with a dog washing shower, a new side entry with stair to the upper and a new laundry room. Over these areas, the stair will lead you to two new guest suites featuring a Jack & Jill Bathroom and their own Lounging and Play Area. The focal point for entertainment is the lower level which features a bar and seating area. Opposite the bar you walk out on the concrete pavers to a covered outdoor kitchen feature a 48” grill, Large Big Green Egg smoker, 30” Diameter Evo Flat-top Grill, and a sink all surrounded by granite countertops that sit atop a white brick base with stainless steel access doors. The kitchen overlooks a 60” gas fire pit that sits adjacent to a custom gunite eight sided hot tub with travertine coping that looks out to the lake. This elegant and timeless approach to this 5,000SF three level addition and renovation allowed the owner to add multiple sleeping and entertainment areas while rejuvenating a beautiful lake front lot with subtle contrasting colors.

The main design goal of this Northern European country style home was to use traditional, authentic materials that would have been used ages ago. ORIJIN STONE premium stone was selected as one such material, taking the main stage throughout key living areas including the custom hand carved Alder™ Limestone fireplace in the living room, as well as the master bedroom Alder fireplace surround, the Greydon™ Sandstone cobbles used for flooring in the den, porch and dining room as well as the front walk, and for the Greydon Sandstone paving & treads forming the front entrance steps and landing, throughout the garden walkways and patios and surrounding the beautiful pool. This home was designed and built to withstand both trends and time, a true & charming heirloom estate. Architecture: Rehkamp Larson Architects Builder: Kyle Hunt & Partners Landscape Design & Stone Install: Yardscapes Mason: Meyer Masonry Interior Design: Alecia Stevens Interiors Photography: Scott Amundson Photography & Spacecrafting Photography

Photography credits: Scott Paterson
Inspiration for a contemporary bathroom remodel in Miami

The main design goal of this Northern European country style home was to use traditional, authentic materials that would have been used ages ago. ORIJIN STONE premium stone was selected as one such material, taking the main stage throughout key living areas including the custom hand carved Alder™ Limestone fireplace in the living room, as well as the master bedroom Alder fireplace surround, the Greydon™ Sandstone cobbles used for flooring in the den, porch and dining room as well as the front walk, and for the Greydon Sandstone paving & treads forming the front entrance steps and landing, throughout the garden walkways and patios and surrounding the beautiful pool. This home was designed and built to withstand both trends and time, a true & charming heirloom estate. Architecture: Rehkamp Larson Architects Builder: Kyle Hunt & Partners Landscape Design & Stone Install: Yardscapes Mason: Meyer Masonry Interior Design: Alecia Stevens Interiors Photography: Scott Amundson Photography & Spacecrafting Photography

This luxurious pool and yard was meticulously designed with a unique shape that caters to the homeowner's specific needs and aesthetic preferences. The sun deck and outdoor furniture were custom-built to enhance the opulent feel of the pool area. The water feature wall is a testament to the masterful design and engineering that went into creating this tranquil oasis. With its soothing waterfall and integrated lighting, the wall serves as the central focal point of the pool area, offering breathtaking views to swimmers and loungers alike. The tilework adds an extra layer of elegance to the already stunning feature. This outdoor paradise is perfect for entertaining guests with its built-in kitchen and bar, surrounded by lush landscaping that further elevates the serene atmosphere. Overall, this luxurious pool and yard is a true masterpiece of design and engineering, creating a lavish and tranquil retreat for any homeowner.

A view of the 'Champagne Terrace' and the 'Water-Wall' water feature. The old original area was a small brick patio with a difficult access across the narrow coping of the original spa. Relocating the spa provided a space for an elegant comfortable staircase up to this relaxing dining patio. The smooth stucco bench and trellis are a welcoming addition to this area. Down-lights are hidden in the trellis and illuminate the area at night. The landscape lighting transforms this yard into a magical wonderland in the evening. Photo: Wendy Harper Master Builder: Ken Palmer

The main design goal of this Northern European country style home was to use traditional, authentic materials that would have been used ages ago. ORIJIN STONE premium stone was selected as one such material, taking the main stage throughout key living areas including the custom hand carved Alder™ Limestone fireplace in the living room, as well as the master bedroom Alder fireplace surround, the Greydon™ Sandstone cobbles used for flooring in the den, porch and dining room as well as the front walk, and for the Greydon Sandstone paving & treads forming the front entrance steps and landing, throughout the garden walkways and patios and surrounding the beautiful pool. This home was designed and built to withstand both trends and time, a true & charming heirloom estate. Architecture: Rehkamp Larson Architects Builder: Kyle Hunt & Partners Landscape Design & Stone Install: Yardscapes Mason: Meyer Masonry Interior Design: Alecia Stevens Interiors Photography: Scott Amundson Photography & Spacecrafting Photography

Discover a premier luxury outdoor project that masterfully blends high-end contemporary design with maximum functional appeal, showcasing a versatile collection of water bodies from full-sized rectangular pools to intimate plunge pools. This clean-lined aesthetic is defined by the contrast of inviting blue pool tile and the crisp, wide white or light-toned coping that frames the water perfectly. The design is anchored by a large tanning shelf for comfortable, all-day sunbathing, and is complemented by a flush spa that integrates seamlessly into the pool's edge. The tranquility of the space is amplified by dramatic water features, often employing sheer descent scuppers, waterfalls, or fountain gushers cascading from an adjacent wall. The surrounding environment is meticulously structured and largely defined by lush, vibrant artificial turf, which is segmented by bold, geometric stepping stones of light-toned stone or concrete to create highly modern walkways and defined zones for relaxation and entertaining. The overall result is a cohesive, high-end haven where every element is intentionally placed to ensure a sophisticated, adaptable, and beautiful outdoor living experience.

Photography credits: Scott Paterson
Inspiration for a contemporary home design remodel in Miami

Westport CT. WITH A LOVE of outdoor living, these Connecticut homeowners wanted to outfit their open-air area for maximum enjoyment. Envisioning a space especially for cooking, dining, and relaxing, they hired Michael Gotowala, principal designer and president of Preferred Properties Landscaping and Masonry, whose motto is to “live beyond the walls of your home outdoors.” Preparing their home so the owners could do just that, Gotowala got to work on an addition that allowed for a master bedroom and office walkout for private outdoor living. The heart of the outdoor area features a fireplace with arched stone bins, granite countertops, and an adult beverage center. To the right, a stone hot tub complements the stone courtyard and privacy walls, which are highlighted with fire jars. To the left of the addition is pool central. This section includes a fire pit with stone bench and L-shaped island against the house. element, visually connecting areas. The stone façade on the house matches that of the island, making the entire space appear larger. Stone steps at all the door openings have different heights to accommodate the pool and home addition. And Gotowala chose an artful mix of varieties that all complement each other: Noble hill yellow stone for the walls, Norwegian buff limestone for the pool deck and coping, and yellow river granite for the kitchen countertops. For more insight on this Fabulous outdoor living project in Westport, Ct. by Michael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by PREFERRED PROPERTIES go to www.OutdoorKitchenDesigner.comMichael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by PREFERRED PROPERTIES CONNECTICUT

2019 Splash Award - Best Outdoor Living Space What's better than having a pool table next to your pool?!? The three tiered deck gives plenty of space for outdoor entertaining and sitting pool side. It even has sheer decent water features as an added bonus. Every detail counts including the custom round tanning ledge and benches.

This backyard was a design challenge due to the triangular shape of the landscape, so we came up with a diagonal solution. The homeowners requested shade in the pool for hot days, so we created an architectural trellis. Through this the trellis became the centerpiece and backdrop to the design. The jewel of the backyard design is a spa that appears to be vanishing due to the granite. This relaxing feature can be viewed from the master bathroom every time they glance out. When they begin their day, they can look out to see a beautiful reflecting mirror right outside.

This luxurious pool and yard was meticulously designed with a unique shape that caters to the homeowner's specific needs and aesthetic preferences. The sun deck and outdoor furniture were custom-built to enhance the opulent feel of the pool area. The water feature wall is a testament to the masterful design and engineering that went into creating this tranquil oasis. With its soothing waterfall and integrated lighting, the wall serves as the central focal point of the pool area, offering breathtaking views to swimmers and loungers alike. The tilework adds an extra layer of elegance to the already stunning feature. This outdoor paradise is perfect for entertaining guests with its built-in kitchen and bar, surrounded by lush landscaping that further elevates the serene atmosphere. Overall, this luxurious pool and yard is a true masterpiece of design and engineering, creating a lavish and tranquil retreat for any homeowner.

Howard Roberts
Inspiration for a coastal landscaping in New York.

Photography credits: Scott Paterson
Trendy home design photo in Miami

This project designed by Mike Farley, has a tailored and natural look with lots of boulders and Travertine decks and coping. There was an existing pool that was very formal that we removed before going organic with a cabana, fireplace and an outdoor kitchen. The house needed an addition with an entertainment media room, cigar room and pool bath. Privacy was achieved by adding a cabana on the north side with a full stone wall. The spa needed to be close to the master bedroom and have visibility of the flat screen television in the cabana. The spa is flush with the upper patio so not to block view of the pool. A natural boulder stream connects the pool and spa. To soften the house planting is between the cabana and house. Access to the cabana was located between the spa and the pool on the floating pad. Remote controlled fire features accent both ends of the boulders. Retaining walls were built behind the waterfall to bring the grade up so plantings looked more natural and waterfalls appeared to come out of the hillside. The cabana features were to create three zones. It doesn't matter the season or time of day this space provides the family's perfect outside setting to enjoy each other.

2019 Splash Award - Best Outdoor Living Space What's better than having a pool table next to your pool?!? The three tiered deck gives plenty of space for outdoor entertaining and sitting pool side. It even has sheer decent water features as an added bonus. Every detail counts including the custom round tanning ledge and benches.

This overhead view shows the focal point of the backyard, a 25’ x 45’ custom Gunite pool and spa. The masterful use of armour stones helps to lend a natural look while the pool’s charcoal stone coping provides a pleasing contrast to both the pool’s Azure Blue Pebble Sheen interior and the surrounding flagstone deck.

This sanctuary brings the French Mediterranean to the midwest. Impeccable detail is highlighted with the masterful landscape architecture. Premium ORIJIN STONE Bluestone Blue Select Thermal natural stone can be found from the front entrance to the back pool. A custom Indiana Limestone fire surround created by ORIJIN adds a sculptural presence to the back veranda.