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?

Elegant Oasis: Maximizing Entertaining Space In reimagining this 14,233 sqft lot, the goal was to create a high-impact, space-efficient outdoor environment, where space meets sophistication for unrivaled outdoor entertaining. This presentation outlines the thoughtfully designed elements which were meticulously integrated to maximize entertaining space within the constraints of the property. The project commenced with relocating the pool to the furthest reaches of the property, respecting property line setbacks to amplify the area available for entertainment. Adjacent to the back door, a covered built-in kitchen and intimate seating area offer protection from both bugs and the scorching afternoon sun, thanks to a convenient drop-down screen. The 18'x36' pool serves as the focal point, backed by an 18" masonry wall adorned with LED lighting accents. Behind this backdrop, a hedge of long-blooming hydrangeas and espalier-shaped European hornbeams complements the formal design, infusing the space with timeless elegance. The pool deck features a sturdy 5" rebar-reinforced concrete overlay with Valders Dove White and gray stone laid in a herringbone pattern (5'x18" pieces). To address stormwater retention, a large drywell behind the pool was repurposed as the base for a putting green, encircled by permeable gravel and stone coping. Landscape lighting makes it perfect for endless fun, day and night. To minimize the “fence feeling” and to distinguish the detached garage driveway, a grand outdoor fireplace and wall were constructed. This space also includes an outdoor TV and speaker system. A pergola, built from large steel I-beams and cedar, provides respite from the summer sun. For continuity and aesthetic impact, the hydrangea hedge extends the entire length of the property, maximizing the use of the narrow 36" side. The front of the property is equally striking. A heated concrete driveway, saw-cut into 5'x5' squares, provides a grand entrance. The front porch and walkway feature heated, randomly patterned bluestone, expertly set on a concrete sub-base. Two sets of garden walls enclose the front yard, with the closest to the front door boasting three water scuppers and a pondless waterfall system, creating a captivating ambiance for arriving guests. The property's front and rear areas are adorned with various planting beds and containers, which are seasonally adapted to ensure a vibrant landscape year-round. Formal, columnar trees, such as slender silhouette sweetgum, columnar tulip trees, sheared European hornbeams, and shaped tricolor beech, were chosen to harmonize with the property's architecture. Crushed blue granite gravel was used to cover all planting beds, maintaining a clean and low-maintenance appearance. In conclusion, our project has not only met but exceeded our client's expectations by delivering a low-maintenance, high-impact, and space-efficient outdoor haven.

The residence’s parti is a contemporary adaptation of the ancient Roman courtyard house, allowing it to maximize energy efficiency through passive cooling and solar heating. The first floor terraces gracefully above the exterior grade, and the plan is focused around a central pool and courtyard that opens to an adjacent lake and prevailing breezes. The line between interior and exterior space is blurred by over 50 feet of Nana doors, which facilitate a refreshing flow of natural ventilation that exits the house through operable transom windows and the cupola tower. Exterior colors and materials were selected to maximize heat reflectivity, and generous eave overhangs maximize shading in the summer and heat gain in the winter. Materials, products and equipment were specified based on their exemplary environmental and efficiency attributes, and whenever possible local materials and craftsmen were used. The residence is a Florida Green Building Commission certified Florida Green Home.

Elegant Oasis: Maximizing Entertaining Space In reimagining this 14,233 sqft lot, the goal was to create a high-impact, space-efficient outdoor environment, where space meets sophistication for unrivaled outdoor entertaining. This presentation outlines the thoughtfully designed elements which were meticulously integrated to maximize entertaining space within the constraints of the property. The project commenced with relocating the pool to the furthest reaches of the property, respecting property line setbacks to amplify the area available for entertainment. Adjacent to the back door, a covered built-in kitchen and intimate seating area offer protection from both bugs and the scorching afternoon sun, thanks to a convenient drop-down screen. The 18'x36' pool serves as the focal point, backed by an 18" masonry wall adorned with LED lighting accents. Behind this backdrop, a hedge of long-blooming hydrangeas and espalier-shaped European hornbeams complements the formal design, infusing the space with timeless elegance. The pool deck features a sturdy 5" rebar-reinforced concrete overlay with Valders Dove White and gray stone laid in a herringbone pattern (5'x18" pieces). To address stormwater retention, a large drywell behind the pool was repurposed as the base for a putting green, encircled by permeable gravel and stone coping. Landscape lighting makes it perfect for endless fun, day and night. To minimize the “fence feeling” and to distinguish the detached garage driveway, a grand outdoor fireplace and wall were constructed. This space also includes an outdoor TV and speaker system. A pergola, built from large steel I-beams and cedar, provides respite from the summer sun. For continuity and aesthetic impact, the hydrangea hedge extends the entire length of the property, maximizing the use of the narrow 36" side. The front of the property is equally striking. A heated concrete driveway, saw-cut into 5'x5' squares, provides a grand entrance. The front porch and walkway feature heated, randomly patterned bluestone, expertly set on a concrete sub-base. Two sets of garden walls enclose the front yard, with the closest to the front door boasting three water scuppers and a pondless waterfall system, creating a captivating ambiance for arriving guests. The property's front and rear areas are adorned with various planting beds and containers, which are seasonally adapted to ensure a vibrant landscape year-round. Formal, columnar trees, such as slender silhouette sweetgum, columnar tulip trees, sheared European hornbeams, and shaped tricolor beech, were chosen to harmonize with the property's architecture. Crushed blue granite gravel was used to cover all planting beds, maintaining a clean and low-maintenance appearance. In conclusion, our project has not only met but exceeded our client's expectations by delivering a low-maintenance, high-impact, and space-efficient outdoor haven.

We were able to maximize the space by ensuring the design was well thought out. The transformation of this space went beyond aesthetics (e.g. tile selection and finishes) and is an example of how careful planning and attention to detail can result in achieving maximum potential and functionality in a small space. Highlights of functional changes include: -Expanded bathroom size - moved wall 10" taking space from the closet in next bedroom; -Moved toilet and plumbing; -Replaced original octagon shaped window to rectangular window, which offered the desired symmetry from front of the home; -Designed a fixed window that would offer privacy while showcasing the character of the 1920s home; -Installed waterproof, flat floor; -Designed custom linen cabinet and vanity to maximize storage and function; most bathrooms twice the size don’t have the storage of this one; -Added insulation to the two exterior walls and sound insulation to interior wall facing bedroom; -Added fan (there wasn’t one); -Moved the location (and swing) of the door over several inches; -Used wall hung faucet to maximize the limited space while supporting the desired modern vision of the space.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Charleston Modern Farmhouse model home in the Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina region, effortlessly balances classic rustic architecture with contemporary modern design elements. As one of our most popular customizable floor plans, the Charleston open-concept layout maximizes both smart storage and everyday livability. The heart of the home features a gourmet chef’s kitchen equipped with expansive counter space, a large central island to gather around, and a massive walk-in pantry that ensures a highly organized, clutter-free workspace. To maximize functionality for the modern family, a versatile flex room is outfitted with custom floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinets and open shelving, creating the ultimate organized home office, library, or hobby space. Tucked away off the main living zone, a quiet pocket office offers additional organization space just before leading into the private owner's retreat. This luxury primary suite serves as the ultimate sanctuary, accented by an elegant tray ceiling that adds sophisticated architectural height and unique detail to the private space. The master bedroom oasis boasts two large walk-in closets and a deluxe owner's bath designed with a custom tile walk-in shower—offering a spa-like escape right at home. Designed with a split-bedroom layout to maximize privacy, the additional spacious bedrooms sit on the opposite side of the home, ensuring children or guests enjoy their own dedicated space. Blending highly sought-after modern farmhouse curb appeal with premium interior craftsmanship, this home provides endless inspiration for families looking to build their dream home.

We were able to maximize the space by ensuring the design was well thought out. The transformation of this space went beyond aesthetics (e.g. tile selection and finishes) and is an example of how careful planning and attention to detail can result in achieving maximum potential and functionality in a small space. Highlights of functional changes include: -Expanded bathroom size - moved wall 10" taking space from the closet in next bedroom; -Moved toilet and plumbing; -Replaced original octagon shaped window to rectangular window, which offered the desired symmetry from front of the home; -Designed a fixed window that would offer privacy while showcasing the character of the 1920s home; -Installed waterproof, flat floor; -Designed custom linen cabinet and vanity to maximize storage and function; most bathrooms twice the size don’t have the storage of this one; -Added insulation to the two exterior walls and sound insulation to interior wall facing bedroom; -Added fan (there wasn’t one); -Moved the location (and swing) of the door over several inches; -Used wall hung faucet to maximize the limited space while supporting the desired modern vision of the space.

Mode of Action • Maximizing space usage by changing Jacuzzi into tub • Changing room layout – installing sink and vanity across the room to maximize space usage • Creating multiple storage spaces by making custom-made vanities • New granite countertop • New construction for shower extending • New wood tiles and accents – the wood was handle in a special way in order to seal it for maximize water resistant • New glass doors • New flooring • Fresh natural paint • Replacing pluming in bathroom area • Using existing mirror Materials Used: • Wood tiles • Granite counter top • Dark stone tile for the romantic environment • Light tile wood plank look a like for the floor (neutral color - resale purpose) • Solid wood custom made vanity • Dark solid wood shelves • Luxurious water fixture that includes double shower rain head and matching faucets • New wall texture and relaxing paint color • Lots of love and passion for our work

Elegant Oasis: Maximizing Entertaining Space In reimagining this 14,233 sqft lot, the goal was to create a high-impact, space-efficient outdoor environment, where space meets sophistication for unrivaled outdoor entertaining. This presentation outlines the thoughtfully designed elements which were meticulously integrated to maximize entertaining space within the constraints of the property. The project commenced with relocating the pool to the furthest reaches of the property, respecting property line setbacks to amplify the area available for entertainment. Adjacent to the back door, a covered built-in kitchen and intimate seating area offer protection from both bugs and the scorching afternoon sun, thanks to a convenient drop-down screen. The 18'x36' pool serves as the focal point, backed by an 18" masonry wall adorned with LED lighting accents. Behind this backdrop, a hedge of long-blooming hydrangeas and espalier-shaped European hornbeams complements the formal design, infusing the space with timeless elegance. The pool deck features a sturdy 5" rebar-reinforced concrete overlay with Valders Dove White and gray stone laid in a herringbone pattern (5'x18" pieces). To address stormwater retention, a large drywell behind the pool was repurposed as the base for a putting green, encircled by permeable gravel and stone coping. Landscape lighting makes it perfect for endless fun, day and night. To minimize the “fence feeling” and to distinguish the detached garage driveway, a grand outdoor fireplace and wall were constructed. This space also includes an outdoor TV and speaker system. A pergola, built from large steel I-beams and cedar, provides respite from the summer sun. For continuity and aesthetic impact, the hydrangea hedge extends the entire length of the property, maximizing the use of the narrow 36" side. The front of the property is equally striking. A heated concrete driveway, saw-cut into 5'x5' squares, provides a grand entrance. The front porch and walkway feature heated, randomly patterned bluestone, expertly set on a concrete sub-base. Two sets of garden walls enclose the front yard, with the closest to the front door boasting three water scuppers and a pondless waterfall system, creating a captivating ambiance for arriving guests. The property's front and rear areas are adorned with various planting beds and containers, which are seasonally adapted to ensure a vibrant landscape year-round. Formal, columnar trees, such as slender silhouette sweetgum, columnar tulip trees, sheared European hornbeams, and shaped tricolor beech, were chosen to harmonize with the property's architecture. Crushed blue granite gravel was used to cover all planting beds, maintaining a clean and low-maintenance appearance. In conclusion, our project has not only met but exceeded our client's expectations by delivering a low-maintenance, high-impact, and space-efficient outdoor haven.

Elegant Oasis: Maximizing Entertaining Space In reimagining this 14,233 sqft lot, the goal was to create a high-impact, space-efficient outdoor environment, where space meets sophistication for unrivaled outdoor entertaining. This presentation outlines the thoughtfully designed elements which were meticulously integrated to maximize entertaining space within the constraints of the property. The project commenced with relocating the pool to the furthest reaches of the property, respecting property line setbacks to amplify the area available for entertainment. Adjacent to the back door, a covered built-in kitchen and intimate seating area offer protection from both bugs and the scorching afternoon sun, thanks to a convenient drop-down screen. The 18'x36' pool serves as the focal point, backed by an 18" masonry wall adorned with LED lighting accents. Behind this backdrop, a hedge of long-blooming hydrangeas and espalier-shaped European hornbeams complements the formal design, infusing the space with timeless elegance. The pool deck features a sturdy 5" rebar-reinforced concrete overlay with Valders Dove White and gray stone laid in a herringbone pattern (5'x18" pieces). To address stormwater retention, a large drywell behind the pool was repurposed as the base for a putting green, encircled by permeable gravel and stone coping. Landscape lighting makes it perfect for endless fun, day and night. To minimize the “fence feeling” and to distinguish the detached garage driveway, a grand outdoor fireplace and wall were constructed. This space also includes an outdoor TV and speaker system. A pergola, built from large steel I-beams and cedar, provides respite from the summer sun. For continuity and aesthetic impact, the hydrangea hedge extends the entire length of the property, maximizing the use of the narrow 36" side. The front of the property is equally striking. A heated concrete driveway, saw-cut into 5'x5' squares, provides a grand entrance. The front porch and walkway feature heated, randomly patterned bluestone, expertly set on a concrete sub-base. Two sets of garden walls enclose the front yard, with the closest to the front door boasting three water scuppers and a pondless waterfall system, creating a captivating ambiance for arriving guests. The property's front and rear areas are adorned with various planting beds and containers, which are seasonally adapted to ensure a vibrant landscape year-round. Formal, columnar trees, such as slender silhouette sweetgum, columnar tulip trees, sheared European hornbeams, and shaped tricolor beech, were chosen to harmonize with the property's architecture. Crushed blue granite gravel was used to cover all planting beds, maintaining a clean and low-maintenance appearance. In conclusion, our project has not only met but exceeded our client's expectations by delivering a low-maintenance, high-impact, and space-efficient outdoor haven.

The existing Kitchen was extremely inefficient with very little counter space and few cabinets. We re-organized the Kitchen appliances to create an efficient work triangle, maximized cabinet storage by customizing the depth of the cabinets to create a continuous flow of cabinets (deep and shallow) as well as maximized usable counter space which used to be interrupted by the chimney flue. We added a new shallow work counter along the large window wall with tall storage flanking the windows, where our client can sit down while prepping for her dishes. This shallow counter can also be utilized as a serving counter while entertaining guests. Since the footprint remains small, we took advantage of the high ceilings and provided tall wall cabinets and pantry storage. A tall cabinet adjacent to the refrigerator houses the microwave, and what would be a dead corner for the countertop is saved for a toaster oven. photo: Volume Zero LLC

Elegant Oasis: Maximizing Entertaining Space In reimagining this 14,233 sqft lot, the goal was to create a high-impact, space-efficient outdoor environment, where space meets sophistication for unrivaled outdoor entertaining. This presentation outlines the thoughtfully designed elements which were meticulously integrated to maximize entertaining space within the constraints of the property. The project commenced with relocating the pool to the furthest reaches of the property, respecting property line setbacks to amplify the area available for entertainment. Adjacent to the back door, a covered built-in kitchen and intimate seating area offer protection from both bugs and the scorching afternoon sun, thanks to a convenient drop-down screen. The 18'x36' pool serves as the focal point, backed by an 18" masonry wall adorned with LED lighting accents. Behind this backdrop, a hedge of long-blooming hydrangeas and espalier-shaped European hornbeams complements the formal design, infusing the space with timeless elegance. The pool deck features a sturdy 5" rebar-reinforced concrete overlay with Valders Dove White and gray stone laid in a herringbone pattern (5'x18" pieces). To address stormwater retention, a large drywell behind the pool was repurposed as the base for a putting green, encircled by permeable gravel and stone coping. Landscape lighting makes it perfect for endless fun, day and night. To minimize the “fence feeling” and to distinguish the detached garage driveway, a grand outdoor fireplace and wall were constructed. This space also includes an outdoor TV and speaker system. A pergola, built from large steel I-beams and cedar, provides respite from the summer sun. For continuity and aesthetic impact, the hydrangea hedge extends the entire length of the property, maximizing the use of the narrow 36" side. The front of the property is equally striking. A heated concrete driveway, saw-cut into 5'x5' squares, provides a grand entrance. The front porch and walkway feature heated, randomly patterned bluestone, expertly set on a concrete sub-base. Two sets of garden walls enclose the front yard, with the closest to the front door boasting three water scuppers and a pondless waterfall system, creating a captivating ambiance for arriving guests. The property's front and rear areas are adorned with various planting beds and containers, which are seasonally adapted to ensure a vibrant landscape year-round. Formal, columnar trees, such as slender silhouette sweetgum, columnar tulip trees, sheared European hornbeams, and shaped tricolor beech, were chosen to harmonize with the property's architecture. Crushed blue granite gravel was used to cover all planting beds, maintaining a clean and low-maintenance appearance. In conclusion, our project has not only met but exceeded our client's expectations by delivering a low-maintenance, high-impact, and space-efficient outdoor haven.

The residence’s parti is a contemporary adaptation of the ancient Roman courtyard house, allowing it to maximize energy efficiency through passive cooling and solar heating. The first floor terraces gracefully above the exterior grade, and the plan is focused around a central pool and courtyard that opens to an adjacent lake and prevailing breezes. The line between interior and exterior space is blurred by over 50 feet of Nana doors, which facilitate a refreshing flow of natural ventilation that exits the house through operable transom windows and the cupola tower. Exterior colors and materials were selected to maximize heat reflectivity, and generous eave overhangs maximize shading in the summer and heat gain in the winter. Materials, products and equipment were specified based on their exemplary environmental and efficiency attributes, and whenever possible local materials and craftsmen were used. The residence is a Florida Green Building Commission certified Florida Green Home.

A fountain of glorious beveled crystal and plated silver hangs over an elegant dining set. This chandelier from the Maxim Paradise collection is also available in smaller and larger sizes and other options such as wall sconces. This would also look stunning in an entryway.

Our client’s goal was to open up the kitchen to the living room area for multiple reasons, two of which were to create an open and inviting kitchen experience, and also to bring their beautiful view of the waterways surrounding their hilltop perch all the way into the living room area. They wanted to maximize cabinet storage as well as counter space. They also wanted to have a dedicated wet bar area. We wanted to preserve the existing wood ceiling, so we had to get creative with lighting solutions as well as the vent hood. That's why you'll see cable lights, sconces and toe kick lighting to maximize the light. The range hood has an asymmetric design because we wanted to center the cooktop on the island without touching the ceiling to move the range hood. In order to maximize the views, add storage and maintain enough space for the dining table, there are shallow base cabinets along the exterior wall. We also added a new doorway into the bedroom area for privacy which had the added benefit of giving the dining room new purpose as an entertainment area. We included a wet bar with open and display shelving, two wine fridges and storage.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Charleston Modern Farmhouse model home in the Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina region, effortlessly balances classic rustic architecture with contemporary modern design elements. As one of our most popular customizable floor plans, the Charleston open-concept layout maximizes both smart storage and everyday livability. The heart of the home features a gourmet chef’s kitchen equipped with expansive counter space, a large central island to gather around, and a massive walk-in pantry that ensures a highly organized, clutter-free workspace. To maximize functionality for the modern family, a versatile flex room is outfitted with custom floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinets and open shelving, creating the ultimate organized home office, library, or hobby space. Tucked away off the main living zone, a quiet pocket office offers additional organization space just before leading into the private owner's retreat. This luxury primary suite serves as the ultimate sanctuary, accented by an elegant tray ceiling that adds sophisticated architectural height and unique detail to the private space. The master bedroom oasis boasts two large walk-in closets and a deluxe owner's bath designed with a custom tile walk-in shower—offering a spa-like escape right at home. Designed with a split-bedroom layout to maximize privacy, the additional spacious bedrooms sit on the opposite side of the home, ensuring children or guests enjoy their own dedicated space. Blending highly sought-after modern farmhouse curb appeal with premium interior craftsmanship, this home provides endless inspiration for families looking to build their dream home.

We wanted to maximize space and functional storage for this family of 5. We accomplished this by expanding the island to make it a more functional space for their family. We also created a feature wall for Wolf double ovens, Sub-Zero refrigeration, and a ton of pantry space! We opened the kitchen to the dining room to create a more unified space. The homeowners had an unusable desk area that we eliminated and maximized the space by adding a wet bar complete with wine refrigerator and built-in ice maker. The pantry wall behind the wet bar maximizes storage because, can you REALLY ever have too much storage? Swipe to see before.

Elegant Oasis: Maximizing Entertaining Space In reimagining this 14,233 sqft lot, the goal was to create a high-impact, space-efficient outdoor environment, where space meets sophistication for unrivaled outdoor entertaining. This presentation outlines the thoughtfully designed elements which were meticulously integrated to maximize entertaining space within the constraints of the property. The project commenced with relocating the pool to the furthest reaches of the property, respecting property line setbacks to amplify the area available for entertainment. Adjacent to the back door, a covered built-in kitchen and intimate seating area offer protection from both bugs and the scorching afternoon sun, thanks to a convenient drop-down screen. The 18'x36' pool serves as the focal point, backed by an 18" masonry wall adorned with LED lighting accents. Behind this backdrop, a hedge of long-blooming hydrangeas and espalier-shaped European hornbeams complements the formal design, infusing the space with timeless elegance. The pool deck features a sturdy 5" rebar-reinforced concrete overlay with Valders Dove White and gray stone laid in a herringbone pattern (5'x18" pieces). To address stormwater retention, a large drywell behind the pool was repurposed as the base for a putting green, encircled by permeable gravel and stone coping. Landscape lighting makes it perfect for endless fun, day and night. To minimize the “fence feeling” and to distinguish the detached garage driveway, a grand outdoor fireplace and wall were constructed. This space also includes an outdoor TV and speaker system. A pergola, built from large steel I-beams and cedar, provides respite from the summer sun. For continuity and aesthetic impact, the hydrangea hedge extends the entire length of the property, maximizing the use of the narrow 36" side. The front of the property is equally striking. A heated concrete driveway, saw-cut into 5'x5' squares, provides a grand entrance. The front porch and walkway feature heated, randomly patterned bluestone, expertly set on a concrete sub-base. Two sets of garden walls enclose the front yard, with the closest to the front door boasting three water scuppers and a pondless waterfall system, creating a captivating ambiance for arriving guests. The property's front and rear areas are adorned with various planting beds and containers, which are seasonally adapted to ensure a vibrant landscape year-round. Formal, columnar trees, such as slender silhouette sweetgum, columnar tulip trees, sheared European hornbeams, and shaped tricolor beech, were chosen to harmonize with the property's architecture. Crushed blue granite gravel was used to cover all planting beds, maintaining a clean and low-maintenance appearance. In conclusion, our project has not only met but exceeded our client's expectations by delivering a low-maintenance, high-impact, and space-efficient outdoor haven.

Every design decision for this Caribbean beach residence was guided by the desire to maximize the views of the property’s breathtaking natural surroundings. To connect the spaces and reveal the views from every vantage point, the team reconfigured the layout to create vistas, and installed window film to reduce solar heat gain. These modifications increased efficiencies, reused 90% of the interior envelope and did not impact the exterior structure of the building. In addition to providing incredible views, opening up the plan allows cross ventilation, maximizing the use of ocean breezes to cool the interior. The result is an effortless flow and maximization of space. Throughout the interior, dark materials express the concept of respite in the shade, and emphasize the sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. Millwork crafted by local artisans from local materials establishes hierarchy – providing a clear understanding of the layout – and filters light to create privacy and drama. Screens help define the spaces and create suspense. Varying screen opacities serve specific functions: nearly opaque screens build suspense, translucent screens provide privacy, and reflective screens – as seen in the kitchen ceiling – create mystery in the core where light and views are challenged. Referencing the seaside location, the baseboards create a sense of being in a deep shallow. The 16” tall baseboards create a pool effect, engaging the walls with Cradle to Cradle certified Mosa tile flooring. The irregular height also conceals power and data cabling. The resulting space is a contemporary oasis that offers a high-level of comfort and functionality. Anne Rausch Photography