Master Seasons - Photos & Ideas

Beautiful Whole House Remodel - Glen Ellyn, IL

Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW The Klimala’s and their three kids are no strangers to moving, this being their fifth house in the same town over the 20-year period they have lived there. “It must be the 7-year itch, because every seven years, we seem to find ourselves antsy for a new project or a new environment. I think part of it is being a designer, I see my own taste evolve and I want my environment to reflect that. Having easy access to wonderful tradesmen and a knowledge of the process makes it that much easier”. This time, Klimala’s fell in love with a somewhat unlikely candidate. The 1950’s ranch turned cape cod was a bit of a mutt, but it’s location 5 minutes from their design studio and backing up to the high school where their kids can roll out of bed and walk to school, coupled with the charm of its location on a private road and lush landscaping made it an appealing choice for them. “The bones of the house were really charming. It was typical 1,500 square foot ranch that at some point someone added a second floor to. Its sloped roofline and dormered bedrooms gave it some charm.” With the help of architect Maureen McHugh, Klimala’s gutted and reworked the layout to make the house work for them. An open concept kitchen and dining room allows for more frequent casual family dinners and dinner parties that linger. A dingy 3-season room off the back of the original house was insulated, given a vaulted ceiling with skylights and now opens up to the kitchen. This room now houses an 8’ raw edge white oak dining table and functions as an informal dining room. “One of the challenges with these mid-century homes is the 8’ ceilings. I had to have at least one room that had a higher ceiling so that’s how we did it” states Klimala. The kitchen features a 10’ island which houses a 5’0” Galley Sink. The Galley features two faucets, and double tiered rail system to which accessories such as cutting boards and stainless steel bowls can be added for ease of cooking. Across from the large sink is an induction cooktop. “My two teen daughters and I enjoy cooking, and the Galley and induction cooktop make it so easy.” A wall of tall cabinets features a full size refrigerator, freezer, double oven and built in coffeemaker. The area on the opposite end of the kitchen features a pantry with mirrored glass doors and a beverage center below. The rest of the first floor features an entry way, a living room with views to the front yard’s lush landscaping, a family room where the family hangs out to watch TV, a back entry from the garage with a laundry room and mudroom area, one of the home’s four bedrooms and a full bath. There is a double sided fireplace between the family room and living room. The home features pops of color from the living room’s peach grass cloth to purple painted wall in the family room. “I’m definitely a traditionalist at heart but because of the home’s Midcentury roots, I wanted to incorporate some of those elements into the furniture, lighting and accessories which also ended up being really fun. We are not formal people so I wanted a house that my kids would enjoy, have their friends over and feel comfortable.” The second floor houses the master bedroom suite, two of the kids’ bedrooms and a back room nicknamed “the library” because it has turned into a quiet get away area where the girls can study or take a break from the rest of the family. The area was originally unfinished attic, and because the home was short on closet space, this Jack and Jill area off the girls’ bedrooms houses two large walk-in closets and a small sitting area with a makeup vanity. “The girls really wanted to keep the exposed brick of the fireplace that runs up the through the space, so that’s what we did, and I think they feel like they are in their own little loft space in the city when they are up there” says Klimala. 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

Slimming Down Expenses: Cost-Cutting Strategies for Small Restaurants

harry schott

Running a small restaurant is a high-wire act - delicious plates on one end, razor-thin margins on the other. With food costs averaging 28-35 percent of revenue and labor at 30 percent, every dollar counts. The good news? Targeted tweaks can shave 10-20 percent off your bottom line without sacrificing quality. From smarter sourcing to streamlined waste handling, these strategies empower independents to thrive. One underrated gem: Efficient waste management via roll-off dumpster rentals, which can slash disposal fees by up to 40 percent. Let's break it down. Optimize Inventory: Waste Less, Save More Overstocked pantries are profit killers - U.S. restaurants toss $25 billion in food yearly. Audit weekly. Track sales data to forecast demand, using apps like Toast or MarketMan for real-time insights. Trim your menu to 12-15 core items, focusing on seasonal, high-margin stars like farm-fresh salads over imported proteins. Portion control is key - pre-weighed scoops cut overuse by 15 percent. Repurpose scraps creatively. Veggie peels into stocks, bread ends for croutons. Donate extras to food banks via apps like Too Good To Go, earning tax deductions up to $5,000 annually. These habits reclaim 5-10 percent of food budgets, freeing cash for upgrades. Additionally, consider using citrus rinds for infused oils or desserts, and coffee grounds for compost to support local gardens. Engaging staff in sustainability efforts also builds morale and can be highlighted in marketing materials to attract eco-conscious diners. Trim Energy and Utilities: Go Green for Greenbacks Utilities gobble 4-10 percent of expenses. Swap to LED bulbs and energy-star appliances - upfront costs pay back in 6-12 months via 20-30 percent bill drops. Install low-flow faucets and programmable thermostats; during off-hours, dial down to 55°F to save $200/month on HVAC. Use induction cooktops for precise heat, reducing gas by 15 percent. Train staff on "last out" protocols - unplugging idle equipment. Solar panels? For rooftops under 1,000 sq ft, incentives cover 30 percent installation, yielding ROI in 5 years. Master Waste Management: Dumpsters as Cost Commanders Trash isn't just garbage - it's a budget black hole, with disposal eating 2-5 percent of revenues. Small spots generate 1-2 tons monthly from food scraps, packaging, and grease. Ditch overflowing bins and irregular hauls for roll-off dumpster rentals. A 10-15 yard unit centralizes waste, handling bulk like fryer oil drums or produce crates without daily pickups. Efficiency Over Headcount Labor's your biggest line item - cross-train staff for multi-roles, like servers prepping during lulls, trimming overtime 10-15 percent. Shift scheduling software optimizes based on reservations, avoiding idle payroll. Negotiate bulk buys with local suppliers for 5-10 percent discounts; loyalty programs from Sysco yield free deliveries. Go digital - QR menus cut printing costs, speed table turnover, and allow menu updates in real time without waste. Loyalty apps boost repeat visits without increasing your advertising budget, making it easier to track customer preferences and send targeted promotions. Consider bundling purchases with other area restaurants to unlock deeper discounts and leverage supplier relationships for exclusive seasonal specials. These strategies can reduce overhead, improve customer retention, and keep operations flexible as trends shift.

Richmond Residence

S Squared Design, LLC

Our client has a love for purple and what better place to use it than in her own private loft. We used a neutral color pallet with bold accents of purple to create a personal space for her to enjoy. Soft feminine choices such as a tufted headboard and a little silver scattered in the accessories. And every queen should have there very own chandelier so we gave her two, one in the bedroom and one in the living area. The headboard makes a bold statement against the gray accent wall. Simple, clean, modern and personal is what this space is about.

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Relaxing Bathroom Remodel

Seasons Interiors

Inspiration for a large transitional master beige tile and pebble tile porcelain tile freestanding bathtub remodel in Denver with furniture-like cabinets, brown cabinets, a one-piece toilet, green walls, an undermount sink and quartz countertops

Easy Great Room

Maraya Interior Design

Modern Home Interiors and Exteriors, featuring clean lines, textures, colors and simple design with floor to ceiling windows. Hardwood, slate, and porcelain floors, all natural materials that give a sense of warmth throughout the spaces. Some homes have steel exposed beams and monolith concrete and galvanized steel walls to give a sense of weight and coolness in these very hot, sunny Southern California locations. Kitchens feature built in appliances, and glass backsplashes. Living rooms have contemporary style fireplaces and custom upholstery for the most comfort. Bedroom headboards are upholstered, with most master bedrooms having modern wall fireplaces surounded by large porcelain tiles. Project Locations: Ojai, Santa Barbara, Westlake, California. Projects 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. Great room with dark stained planked floors, ledge stone rock and large sliding doors.

2020 Haciendas Parade of Homes Classic Contemporary

William Prull

This gorgeous home, situated in the Commonwealth subdivision of the Galisteo Basin Preserve, was designed to accommodate the beautiful but sometimes harsh weather of the Basin. Built around an inner courtyard, buffered to the somewhat inclement conditions, it allows for seasonal year around enjoyment. The floor to ceiling windows, European Reynaers Aluminum, were imported from Ireland, and appear as glassy walls that disappear into pocketing doors ensuring magnificent wraparound views. The grand entrance, encased with an oversized custom steel and brass entry door, with glass side panel and transom, open up to soaring illuminated recessed lit ceilings. Porcelain tile floors seamlessly transition between interior/exterior. An impressive 3-sided Ortal fireplace provides warmth and coziness encapsulating the entire great room. The excellence of the materials and exclusive nature of the finishes are expressed in a tailored and sophisticated manner. The 4,332 heated per square foot home is designed with two Master Suite wings that spin off the main great room. The state-of-the-art kitchen is sleek and spacious with an expansive island comprised of Elegant Brown granite countertops, luxury modern Italian Poliform custom cabinets and high-end Gaggenau appliances. The home has a highly efficient engineered heating/cooling system with heat radiant floors and Unico air conditioning. A detached guest casita/art studio sits adjacent to the main house, on a lushly landscaped protected courtyard. The exterior landscaping is organically integrated into the natural terrain, incorporating a bocce ball court, walking labyrinth, sculpture and water features. AWARDS 2016 AIA Santa Fe Design Excellence: Citation Award- Single Family Home PUBLICATIONS Santa Fe New Mexican – HOME/Santa Fe Real Estate Guide– January 2017 – A Courtyard Centered Gem in the Galisteo Basin Western Art & Architecture Magazine – February/March 2016 – Finding Home TESTIMONIAL After researching several builders in Santa Fe and then interviewing the ones of interest, we decided on Will Prull as he seemed to instantly connect to what we wanted and how to achieve it. He was also highly recommended by our architect. Our Project Manager was excellent and helped us make decisions that creep up between the plans and the actual building. Our house won the AIA award in 2016 for Santa Fe. When choosing your builder, the most important thing is that your Project Manager understands your direction and has your best interests at heart. Our's did! ARCHITECT Hoopes + Associates Architects, , Santa Fe, NM INTERIORS Paul Rau Interiors, Santa Fe, NM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Sequis + Associates Landscape Architecture, Santa Fe, NM

2020 Haciendas Parade of Homes Classic Contemporary

William Prull

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Delaware, OH

Buckeye Basements, Inc.40 Reviews

Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

2020 Haciendas Parade of Homes Classic Contemporary

William Prull

u2014 ALE: Private Residence

Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Residential $30,000-$60,000 Award Level: Silver Project Description: Our company was contracted to do a master plan for the family who was in desperate need of a rear yard renovation. The existing lawn area remained saturated throughout most of the year and the runoff from the neighboring property ran across their back yard, down the side of their property and all the way to the sidewalk in front of their house. The water was so intense that it had begun to cut through the back yard and erode the soil across the sidewalk and into the nearby storm drain. By identifying these drainage problems and discussing solutions with the homeowner, we were able to design and create the aesthetically pleasing and sustainable solution of a rain garden. The goal was to slow down storm water runoff, and catch pollution and sediment by creating a rain garden that acts as a filter prior to entering the storm drain, while enhancing the aesthetics of the property. The rain garden created was a shallow depression, 12 - 16" deep that collects rainfall runoff from all downspouts of the home and water collected into perforated pipes underneath the lawn area. The perforated pipe begins at the highest elevation in the yard and ends in the rain garden, the new lowest elevation that has been excavated down to an 8" depth. The perforated pipe captures the runoff water and allows the water to seep slowly back into the ground as it runs across the property and into the garden. The garden was lined with a geotextile filter fabric to aide in removing contaminants from the water, prevent migration of the stone in to the soil, and minimalize maintenance. A large variety of plant material was chosen, focusing mainly on native wetland species for their tolerance of our local soil types, moisture conditions and the habitat they provide for wildlife. The garden was abundant with native wildlife and was a sustainable ecosystem for birds and butterflies upon completion of the project. After planting, we arranged decorative stone throughout the garden to slow the flow of water and help prevent erosion. The combination of vegetative and stone surfaces provides temporary storage for runoff before the water either evaporates or infiltrates the soil. The surrounding beds throughout the property were also all amended with compost and replanted with plants that work in harmony with the rain garden. The front, side, and rear yards are a beautiful display of colors that bloom throughout the seasons and the plants throughout the entire property provide food and shelter for native wildlife. The rear yard that was once a muddy play space for the kids is now a dry lawn space that can be utilized by the family and their neighbors. This multi functional garden has become the focal point of the residence. Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

Hickory Ridge Homestead

Morgan-Keefe Builders, Inc.

Designed with exceptional attention to detail by the architects at The Architectural Studio, Hickory Homestead is located within the luxury, private mountain community of Balsam Mountain Preserve in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. The home’s outdoor living area is a defining feature, highlighted by a freestanding outdoor fireplace that creates an elegant gathering space and invites year-round enjoyment of the mountain setting. Inside, the residence is equally distinguished by high archway ceilings with reclaimed beams and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows in nearly every room. Together, these thoughtfully crafted elements establish Hickory Homestead as a true work of art. Roger Wade

2020 Haciendas Parade of Homes Classic Contemporary

William Prull

2020 Haciendas Parade of Homes Classic Contemporary

William Prull

Beijing Dahu Villa

AFFD Design Firm

GAO Zhiqiang: A dialogue between tangible space and intangible emotions——Space Emotional Design Series, Beijing Dahu Villa One's way of life is based on his understanding of culture. In other words, 'home' has long been separated from the simple definition of just a house. It is both a deep feeling that lies in the blood and a spiritual destination of body and mind. The project is a private residence of Beijing Dahu villa. The owner is an entrepreneur who has passion with life. The house bordered by a lake on both sides has a very good view. The owner who has his own unique and profound views on life aesthetics enjoys gardening in his spare time. Therefore sunlight, air, water and plants are the four design elements which perfectly meet the owner’s needs of having an exquisite land-scape indoors. There are floor-to-ceiling glass windows, unbounded gardens, wooden shelves and vines indoors. All these elements togeth-er form a peaceful and introverted daily emotion which gives the owner a sense of belonging. This three-storey house has a very clear division of functional space: reception and leisure on the first floor, master bedroom and three guest rooms on the second floor and the logistics area is on Negative layer. The living room with no basement below is designed to sink 30 centimeters as a solution of insufficient height. There are large French win-dows on both south and west sides of living room which introduces plenty of light into the space. There are indoor and outdoor area of teahouse dealing with different seasons and weather. The study is located in the northwest corner which is the most important position of a house in Fengshui. Next to the study is a wine and cigar bar where people can relax and enjoy the scenery outside the window. The dining table in the garden is under a natural pavilion formed by wooden shelves and vines. The owner can have cup of tea together with some friends whether the weather is sunny or rainy. There will always be someone who will create a life the way you want to live. And a good design should not only provide people a comforta-ble living space, but also give them the ability to enjoy life. Circular moving lines connect space one by one smoothly. Scenery and light become the focus of the design. Through many design lan-guages such as the arrangement of moving lines in the space, different space interaction and the amount of body shape, the designer is try-ing to describe a picture, tell a story and construct a new attitude towards life. The dining room and the west kitchen are the other most important spaces besides the living room. Under warm yellow lamplight, classic and contemporary indoor style interweave here. Different materials carry emotions as well as record time which happen to echo the sense of ritual shaped in space. On the east side of the second-floor master bedroom is a living room with Ivory curtains, sofas, carpets where the owner can drink morning tea and receive his friends. What space itself presents is the elegant temperament that is gifted by time. The designer chose a modern style Italian frame bed enclosed by screen for the main bedroom. Milky white, light grey, beige and soft tex-ture, vernal sunshine together become a soothing force. At present, people's needs for living space are more spiritual. Its tolerance and temperature cover a family heritage. It is the artistic creation in the changing times. It can carry history and also inspire future.

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Sunbury, OH

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EIGHT OAKS: Exquisite estate inspired by Virginia's 1st Plantation - $3,480,000

Fouad Talout - Talout International LLC

ENVIABLE JEWEL: Perched high on five private acres in the prominent Washington, D.C. suburb of Great Falls, EIGHT OAKS stands as the epitome of excellence, exceptional luxury and timeless elegance. The property is accessed through a gated entry and winding drive. Inspired by Virginia’s first plantation home, this architectural masterwork encompasses six bedrooms and 14 baths across four finished levels. A grand circular marble staircase rises through a skylit rotunda at the home’s heart. Marble floor medallions, gorgeous wall murals, detailed millwork and paneled arched doorways reveal the home’s spectacular craftsmanship and artistry. An elevator facilitates easy access. Twenty-inch thick exterior walls present deep windows and sills. French doors open to seven concrete and flagstone terraces off the living room, kitchen, master suite—even baths--offering charming places for full enjoyment of the glorious Virginia seasons. The traditional floor plan radiates from the center rotunda, presenting excellent flow for family and guests, while cleverly endowing most rooms with corners for optimal windows, light and views. The entrance hall’s hand-crafted coffered ceiling heralds the beauty throughout. To the left, the formal dining room features a corner fireplace, crystal chandelier, paneled wainscoting and hardwood floors—ensuring a classy yet comfortable setting for hosting dinner parties. The bright, gourmet country kitchen anchors the main level with a long granite-topped island, top appliances, desk alcove and plenty of space for informal dining or lounging before the brick fireplace. A storage closet and butler’s pantry lie between the kitchen and dining room. The living room wraps around the rear of the home, offering impeccable sitting areas with a marble fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows. Multiple sets of French doors to rear and side covered terraces effortlessly extend living and entertaining possibilities to the outdoors. A walnut and pine-clad library occupies the opposite front corner of the home -- large enough to accommodate a grand piano, yet possessing an element of coziness with its warm fireplace with sapphire marble surround. Both dining room and library can be closed off for privacy with pocket doors. The private spaces of the upper two levels encompass six bedrooms beginning with the luxurious master suite. Fireplace, a wet bar, roman columns and French doors adorn the bedroom and sitting room. An inside hallway with built-in storage leads to his and her baths, each with separate steam shower, and hers with raised marble spa tub and French doors to a private terrace. A spacious corner dressing room/closet completes the suite. A marble-floored family room with French doors to its own terrace, and a second bedroom and bath on this level, as well as four additional bedrooms with 3.5 baths on the second upper level -- offer beautiful private spaces featuring meticulous attention to detail. The recreation and leisure level of the home captivates with its combination media and game room—brightened by a wall of windows and French doors to the patio and pool deck beyond. A climate-controlled wine cellar and hand-hewn walnut and pine wet bar offer a place for refreshments. The opposite side of this level holds an oversized marble spa, fitness rooms and sauna, as well as laundry and storage rooms. Expansive private vistas of outdoor amenities, lush grounds and surrounding woodlands can be seen from every window. A sparkling pool and spa, foundation for a tennis court or helipad, and an apartment above the four-car garage share the magnificent setting. EIGHT OAKS offers 15,000 square feet of magnificently appointed interiors rich in comforts and character, for a lifestyle of tranquility and sophistication. See www.11206RichlandGrove.come for additional information and photos.

Craftsman-Style Cedar Vine Arbor @ Sideyard Walkway

Regenesis Ecological Design

Clematis armandii 'Evergreen Clematis' (foreground) arches over a custom-built cedar arbor, modeled to accentuate the home's Craftsman-style architecture. Welded mild-steel panel fills create a scaffold for Akebia quinata 'Five-leaf Akebia Vine' (background), lending seasonal privacy and afternoon shade along this narrow sideyard access walkway.

Merwins Lane, Fairfield, CT Historic Farmhouse Restoration and Additions

Domus Constructors, LLC.

This project was a renovation of an 1824 antique farmhouse in Fairfield, CT. Additions that were constructed in the 1940's were removed, portions of the original structure including the roof and framing were selectively demolished in order to maintain the charm and beauty of the original home. Three additions were carefully designed to complement the remaining original structure and meet the space and function requirements of the homeowners. The additions include a new lower level playroom an au-pair bedroom, and additional mechanical space. The first floor received a new kitchen, living room, great room and mud room as well as two powder rooms. The second floor is outfitted with a new bedroom, laundry room, master bedroom suite and balcony. The renovated space includes the dining room, study, butler's pantry, entry hall stair and two bedrooms. Finally, new electrical and energy efficient mechanical systems and windows and doors were installed throughout the home. Starting with the main entry at the north side of the house, the home was totally renovated inside and out. The entire exterior of the home was restored. A new entrance portico was constructed while incorporating the original entry stoop. A custom hand built balustrade was installed on all of the balcony rail areas. Inside the dining room, the colonial feel with oversized fireplace was maintained, and the original wide-plank pine boards were reused to keep the warmth and charm of the original room intact. The main entry ceiling was removed to create space open to the second floor. This space was adorned with a wonderful antique pendant fixture which now hangs from the second floor ceiling. Two arched stained glass doors were purchased from an architectural salvage shop and installed to separate the Entry from the Study.

2020 Haciendas Parade of Homes Classic Contemporary

William Prull