Search results for "Mitigate" in Home Design Ideas

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com
Project Entry: Pembrooke Estate Rain Garden
2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner
Category: Sustainable Landscape &60,000-$120,000
Award Level: Silver
Project Description:
The client contracted our company to solve multiple existing drainage problems. In a heavy rain event the existing French drain system would overflow, causing water to pool in the driveway. After investigating the system we found that the capacity of the French drain was undersized for the amount of storm water from the large rain events received in recent years. As a result of our findings and at the request of the homeowner, we designed a storm water management system to capture all storm water from the structures on the property and regenerate the underground aquifers for the volume of a 5.8” rainstorm. In addition to the new drain system, the homeowners wanted a rain garden to provide a backdrop for an existing formal garden, provide a habitat for wildlife, and provide screening from an adjacent neighbor.
Throughout the design process many challenges were presented, including an existing gas line, which ran directly through the area that best suited the bioswale. The existence of the gas line caused us to alter the shape and depth of the bioswale in some areas. We also inspected the existing downspouts to make sure there were no obstructions that would impede the system’s efficiency, and then conducted a test pit dig to make sure we had sufficient percolation rates for disposal of storm water.
To effectively capture the storm water runoff, the existing downspouts were piped from the main house and the large detached garage to a large catch basin located at the low point in the driveway. The driveway catch basin contains two outlet pipes at different elevations within the basin allowing water from smaller rain events to enter the bioswale and rain garden area to percolate into the soil before excess water overflows into a sediment trap which filters out any debris and is then piped to an underground StormTech® pit to slowly percolate into the ground. The other outlet pipe in the driveway catch basin is used for larger storm water events, taking the water directly to the StormTech® pit.
Accepting and slowing the velocity of the storm water, mitigation of erosion, and filtering out pollutants contained in the “first flush” of rainfall are the primary functions of the bioswale and rain garden. Planting these areas with mostly native plant species helps carry out these functions while attracting and providing shelter for wildlife.
The ‘Niobe’ weeping willow is the centerpiece of the rain garden, connecting with the axis of the existing formal garden. To screen the neighboring property we chose Chamaecyparis nootkatensis ‘Pendula’ for its graceful evergreen habit and tolerance of wet sites. ‘Ivory Halo’ dogwood and Panicum ‘Cloud Nine’ were used for screening as well as winter interest. To provide deciduous structure to the garden Taxodium distichum and Magnolia virginiana were used in conjunction with witch hazel. Mostly native wetland perennials were used due to their tolerance of wet conditions and occasional drought.
The area above the StormTech® pit provides space for the client’s family to relax. The rain garden and bioswale provide screening, storm water management, a habitat for wildlife, and plants that enhance the adjacent formal garden.
Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

2018 HNA Awards Winner - Concrete Paver - Residential (size more than 3,000 sf)
Contractor: LR Landscaping
Producer: Keystone Hardscapes
Designer: Tanna Johns
Venetian pavers were selected for their ability to integrate with the earthen tones found in the area’s natural grasses, granite, oaks and rust-toned soil. Pavers were tumbled to achieve a weathered and rustic look, complementing the limestone used on the home.
The home’s exterior includes exudes quality and includes limestone as well as both precast and oil rubbed bronze iron accents. Tumbled pavers balance German Schmear grout style used on the limestone walls and the roof tile mudded ridges and bumps. The commitment to craftsmanship necessitated a 2.5 year build process.
Keystone Hardscapes samples were created and brought to the home during the final stages of constructions to ensure critical harmony between the pavers and exterior elements of the home. The paver samples were laid against the stucco, precast, limestone and cedar garage doors to confirm design alignment and flow.
The natural grade of this site was mitigated through a significant backfill and retaining wall; delivering a subtle slope from street to a flat grade driveway. This provided an even surface for vehicles and, with Venetian pavers, a seamless transition from the entry gate in to the inner courtyard.
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Introducing "LA Biomoph," a groundbreaking and eco-sustainable architectural vision that reimagines the luxury homes of Los Angeles. Meticulously crafted to align with the region's climate, LA Biomoph embraces nature-inspired solutions, delivering a harmonious living experience while addressing environmental challenges.
At the core of LA Biomoph is a profound dedication to energy efficiency. Smartly utilizing natural elements, the architecture optimizes energy consumption with advanced insulation, reflective roofing, and passive cooling strategies like cross-ventilation and natural shading.
Renewable energy integration is key, utilizing solar coatings on cladding and glazing to harness the abundant Californian sunshine and significantly reduce the development's carbon footprint. Water conservation takes center stage with rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures, responsibly managing the region's scarce water resources.
LA Biomoph's impact extends beyond the buildings themselves, as native and drought-resistant plantings support local ecosystems and reduce water demand for landscaping. With a focus on sustainable construction practices, the use of recycled and locally sourced materials minimizes environmental impact.
Committed to sustainability, LA Biomoph emphasizes waste reduction and recycling during construction. Natural ventilation through operable windows complements the design, providing fresh air and mild weather cooling, thereby reducing the need for artificial cooling.
With cool roofing materials that reflect sunlight, LA Biomoph ensures indoor comfort while mitigating the urban heat island effect. The architecture maximizes natural daylight, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
LA Biomoph's adaptive design ensures longevity, accommodating evolving needs and future sustainable technologies.

Located six feet from the sand, this residence seeks to reframe the contextual reference of its inhabitants in order to mitigate its highly trafficked location and create a private beach retreat. In parallel to its unobstructed ocean view, the design carves out infinite pockets of nature within the architecture. From the dining room’s bamboo garden to the expansive skylight above the stairwell, moments of serenity have been carefully composed throughout the home in order to make each frame as infinite as the horizon line of the Pacific Ocean.

Our design for the expansion and gut renovation of a small 1200 square foot house in a residential neighborhood triples is size, and reworks the living arrangement. The rear addition takes advantage of southern exposure with a "greenhouse" room that provides solar heat gain in winter, shading in summer, and a vast connection to the rear yard.
Architecturally, we used an approach we call "willful practicality." The new soaring ceiling ties together first and second floors in a dramatic volumetric expansion of space, while providing increased ventilation and daylighting from greenhouse to operable windows and skylights at the peak. Exterior pockets of space are created from curved forces pushing in from outside to form cedar clad porch and stoop.
Sustainable design is employed throughout all materials, energy systems and insulation. Masonry exterior walls and concrete floors provide thermal mass for the interior by insulating the exterior. An ERV system facilitates increased air changes and minimizes changes to the interior air temperature. Energy and water saving features and renewable, non-toxic materal selections are important aspects of the house design. Environmental community issues are addressed with a drywell in the side yard to mitigate rain runoff into the town sewer system. The long sloping south facing roof is in anticipation of future solar panels, with the standing seam metal roof providing anchoring opportunities for the panels.
The exterior walls are clad in stucco, cedar, and cement-fiber panels defining different areas of the house. Closed cell spray insulation is applied to exterior walls and roof, giving the house an "air-tight" seal against air infiltration and a high R-value. The ERV system provides the ventilation needed with this tight envelope. The interior comfort level and economizing are the beneficial results of the building methods and systems employed in the house.
Photographer: Peter Kubilus

Bluestone steps move visitors from the back lawn to the terrace above. We mitigated the grade change of the backyard with a double retaining wall, infilled with yew plantings. The fieldstone matches the house's chimney and foundation.

This striking aerial shot captures the artistry of a tiered xeriscape landscape designed for both beauty and sustainability. Flowing curves define each level of the hillside, with retaining walls guiding the eye from the stamped concrete driveway down to a cozy circular fire pit patio and vibrant garden beds. Native and drought-tolerant plantings—including ornamental grasses, conifers, and perennials—are artfully arranged to create texture and color across all seasons. Carefully placed boulders, meandering pathways, and natural mulches enhance the organic feel, while hardscape transitions—such as the concrete stairs and modern deck—maintain a clean, structured aesthetic. This layout exemplifies smart mountain design that harmonizes with the natural surroundings while maximizing function and outdoor enjoyment.

A multi-valent overhaul of a steep mountain property damaged by The Flood and at risk of future degradation. We made room for an outdoor living space by broadening an old fire roadbed using ancient stonework tactics (and a couple of backhoes) to shore up the slopes about and below. We performed extensive erosion mitigation all over the site while making aesthetic improvements. To give the owners access to the overlook far above their home, we built a trail to last generations and accommodate users of all abilities.
Patio concrete, cobble, and fire pit by others.

This stylish front entryway blends contemporary architecture with vibrant landscape accents to create a warm and polished welcome. The wide stamped concrete approach mimics natural stone with a soft texture underfoot, guiding guests toward the covered porch framed by sleek vertical columns and expansive windows. Pops of seasonal color in bright ceramic containers add playful contrast to the neutral tones of the home, while ornamental grasses and perennial blooms soften the edges of the landscape beds. Set against a backdrop of Colorado pines and mountain views, this entry design delivers curb appeal, function, and a colorful sense of arrival in all seasons.

Office Workstations and Cubicles: The Unsung Heroes of Efficient Team Environments
In today's fast-paced business world, the hum of productivity is the sweetest sound an office can produce. But what fuels this symphony of efficiency?
While leadership and strategy are crucial, the physical environment in which a team operates plays a role that is just as vital. The debate between open-plan offices and traditional cubicles has raged for years, yet the truth is that a well-designed space incorporating both office workstations cubicles can be the key to unlocking a team's full potential. This isn't just about furniture; it's about creating a habitat for success.
The Evolution of the Workspace: Beyond the Beige Box
Gone are the days of monotonous rows of identical, soul-crushing cubicles. Modern office design has embraced a more nuanced understanding of worker needs. The contemporary workstation is a far cry from its predecessors, offering flexibility, ergonomic support, and a nod to aesthetic appeal. This evolution recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach stifles creativity and productivity.
Fostering Focus in a Sea of Collaboration
While collaboration is a cornerstone of modern business, the need for individual, focused work remains paramount. This is where the modern cubicle shines. It provides a sanctuary from the constant distractions of a completely open office, allowing employees to delve deep into tasks that require concentration. This dedicated space minimizes interruptions, leading to higher quality work and reduced stress levels.
The Power of Personalization and Ownership
Giving employees a degree of control over their immediate environment can have a profound impact on morale and engagement. Modern workstations and cubicles that allow for personalization be it through adjustable shelving, pinboards for personal items, or even the choice of chair foster a sense of ownership. This small act of empowerment can translate into a greater sense of belonging and commitment to the organization.
Ergonomics: The Foundation of Employee Well-being and Productivity
A comfortable employee is a productive employee. Ergonomics is not a luxury; it's a fundamental necessity in any office environment. Poorly designed workstations can lead to a host of musculoskeletal issues, from back pain to carpal tunnel syndrome, resulting in increased absenteeism and decreased efficiency. Investing in ergonomic chairs, adjustable-height desks, and properly positioned monitors is an investment in the long-term health and performance of your team.
Designing for Synergy: The Strategic office layout design
The arrangement of workstations and cubicles is as important as the furniture itself. A strategic office layout design can facilitate seamless communication and collaboration while still providing pockets of privacy for focused work. This involves creating "neighborhoods" for different teams, placing collaborative zones in central, easily accessible areas, and ensuring that high-traffic pathways don't cut through quiet work zones.
Breaking Down Barriers with Hybrid Designs
The most effective office environments often feature a hybrid approach. This might involve clusters of cubicles for focused work, interspersed with open, collaborative "huddle spaces" equipped with whiteboards and comfortable seating. This variety allows employees to choose the environment that best suits the task at hand, offering the best of both worlds.
The Role of Acoustics in a Thriving Workplace
Noise is one of the biggest complaints in open-plan offices. Well-designed cubicles with sound-dampening panels can significantly mitigate this issue. Furthermore, incorporating acoustic solutions throughout the office, such as sound-absorbing materials on walls and ceilings, can create a more pleasant and productive auditory environment for everyone.
Integrating Technology for a Seamless Workflow
In the digital age, technology is the lifeblood of any business. Modern office workstations are designed with this in mind, featuring integrated power and data ports, cable management systems, and ample space for multiple monitors. This seamless integration of technology ensures that employees have the tools they need to work efficiently and without frustration.
Choosing the Right Partner for Your Office Environment
The task of outfitting an office can be daunting. Partnering with a knowledgeable and reputable Meet&Co commercial furniture supplier is crucial to creating an environment that is both functional and inspiring. A good supplier will not only offer a wide range of high-quality products but will also provide expert advice on space planning and ergonomic best practices, ensuring that your investment yields the best possible return.
The Future of the Office: Flexibility and Adaptability
The world of work is constantly evolving, and office design must evolve with it. The future lies in creating flexible and adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet the changing needs of a business. Modular furniture and movable partitions are key components of this future-proof approach, allowing organizations to scale and adapt without the need for costly and disruptive renovations.
Conclusion: A Strategic Investment in Your Greatest Asset
Ultimately, the design of your office is a direct reflection of your company's culture and values. By investing in high-quality, ergonomic, and well-designed office workstations and cubicles, you are sending a clear message to your employees: their well-being and productivity matter. This strategic investment in your physical workspace is, in fact, an investment in your most valuable asset your people. The result is a more engaged, efficient, and innovative team, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

2019 Silver Winner | PHTA International Awards of Excellence
This custom, design-build project in Lincoln, NE is all about attention to detail. A concrete swimming pool, spa and outdoor patio with a 1,600 square foot bar and grill building are the focal points of the outdoor entertaining area. The pool features an infinity-edge spa, natural stone waterfall and slide, swim up bar with levitating stainless steel bar stools, and zero-entry pool edge.
It was important to the clients, who are from the Midwest, to incorporate natural stones and colors from the region. The outdoor landscape design also ensures enjoyment and safety for their family and young grandchildren.
The pool is a custom shotcrete structure that is 1,147 square feet. It has a beautiful natural stone and shotcrete waterfall with a built in Dolphin slide, and underwater bench. Opposite of the waterfall are five custom-built levitating stainless steel bar stools with an in-pool walk lane and a full swim up bar. A pallet of glass tile gives this natural, freeform pool some shine. The glass-walled, infinity-edge spa features a separate filtration system, heater, pumps and air blower that run off automation. Across from the spa is a custom-cut, flagstone beach entry with LED-lit bubblers for the grandkids.
We incorporated the brick and architectural design of the home throughout the outdoor building, and continued this look into the open-concept bar and grill. The bar and grill is over 1,600 square feet and seats 50 with beautiful, hand-tufted booths, bar stools, professional bar equipment, custom granite tops, and even a men’s and women’s bathroom. Two 16’ wide glass bi-folding doors flawlessly incorporate the covered outdoor travertine courtyards, with matching travertine flooring used inside the building.
A 27’ linear fire pit with natural stone wall includes five stainless steel scupper boxes to match the bar stools. The project has over 6,000 square feet of “tiramisu” travertine used in the patios and courtyards, including a second natural stone fire pit and seating wall.
This project sits on a natural spring, so the entire design was elevated to help mitigate groundwater, and also provide a safer barrier to the pool. A second stream and waterfall are fed by the natural spring runoff water, which is also used for irrigation purposes. This self-contained stream and waterfall extend the enjoyment of the outdoor space further into the season, when the pool system shuts down for the winter months. Large spruce trees and a variety of maples were planted along the property, incorporating natural landscaping materials and design concepts to both provide privacy and manage downhill drainage.
The energy-efficient outdoor lighting system is fully programmable for zoning, dimming, and color changing. In addition, the pool pumps and in-pool LED lights are also automated, and all can be programmed from a simple, smartphone app.

2018 HNA Awards Winner - Concrete Paver - Residential (size more than 3,000 sf)
Contractor: LR Landscaping
Producer: Keystone Hardscapes
Designer: Tanna Johns
Venetian pavers were selected for their ability to integrate with the earthen tones found in the area’s natural grasses, granite, oaks and rust-toned soil. Pavers were tumbled to achieve a weathered and rustic look, complementing the limestone used on the home.
The home’s exterior includes exudes quality and includes limestone as well as both precast and oil rubbed bronze iron accents. Tumbled pavers balance German Schmear grout style used on the limestone walls and the roof tile mudded ridges and bumps. The commitment to craftsmanship necessitated a 2.5 year build process.
Keystone Hardscapes samples were created and brought to the home during the final stages of constructions to ensure critical harmony between the pavers and exterior elements of the home. The paver samples were laid against the stucco, precast, limestone and cedar garage doors to confirm design alignment and flow.
The natural grade of this site was mitigated through a significant backfill and retaining wall; delivering a subtle slope from street to a flat grade driveway. This provided an even surface for vehicles and, with Venetian pavers, a seamless transition from the entry gate in to the inner courtyard.

Switching the single-sink vanity for a double one improved the storage situation by adding a central bank of drawers, and mitigated any morning traffic jams. The framed mirrors came from the cabinet company to match the vanity doors.

LEED certification level: Platinum.
Builder: GCCM Construction Services LLC dba UberGreen Spaces & Homes.
Mark Twain said it best, "If the world were to end today I'd move to Kentucky because they are 20 years behind everyone else."
There is some truth to that because Kentuckians believe that 'if it aint broke dont fix it'.
We designed and built Kentucky's first LEED Platinum Net Zero Energy Net Zero Water home in the private sector. We named the home 'My Green Kentucky Home' playing off the state song 'My Old Kentucky Home'. Our take on a home should have people and the planet in mind. We found LEED to be the best most credible third-party green certification program to address these important challenges today.
The envelope of the home was designed to minimize energy losses and maximize inside comfort by using Insulated Concrete Form walls from the footers to the roof, spray foam and blown in cellulose in the attic, rigid foam beneath the Lower Level basement slab and triple-pane fully insulated casement windows. The home was oriented with the back facing south to maximize daylighting, passive heating in the winter and solar production. Our HVAC is geothermal with a storage tank to preheat domestic water. A fresh air system was installed in the return side of the HVAC system to filter and then mix with supply air to the home.
All paints were zero VOC. The reclaimed KY horse farm fencing turned into beautiful hardwood floors was finished with a low VOC sealer. Carpets were low VOC and the 100% recycled padding was zero VOC. The custom cabinets for the kitchen and baths were made locally and built with FSC certified plywood with no added formaldehyde.
The home collects 100% of the rainwater that hits the roof into a 3,300 gallon rainwater collection tank. The primary use of the collected water is to irrigate the lawns, landscaped beds and supply the hose bibs. When the tank is low it automatically shuts the tank valve and opens the city water valve to operate with city water pressure until the tank fills past a certain level, saving electricity and wear and tear on the pump. The cistern is designed to service all the homes domestic water needs when KY State Plumbing code will allow it in the future.
All appliances are Energy Star and locally made by GE. The counter tops on all cabinets are recycled materials and durable without requiring sealers or maintenance. We went a step further for indoor air quality and installed AirRenew drywall by Certainteed which works like trees do in the environment by pulling in VOC's into the drywall and making it inert. The Florida Tile was made in Kentucky with recycled content. We monitor all utility usage per electrical circuit and monitor the amount of energy produced by the solar panels as well helping the owners make more informed decisions.
The home was such a hit that it was the catalyst that sparked development in a dormant neighborhood of vacant lots.
We had the home open for three months to the public where hundreds of folks toured it as it was laid out like an art museum. We had actual walls open all the way to the outside layer of ICF insulation where they saw the concrete and steel inside the walls. We also had the lower level basement slab cut open to show how we insulate beneath the concrete and how we drain and mitigate radon. It was a super inspirational project that made people think about people and the planet much differently than before.
We hope to continue making great projects like these to help inspire, educate and create awareness around some of the most important topics and challenges we face today.
Thank you to everyone at the USGBC for helping us make this happen and the great work you do every day!

Located six feet from the sand, this residence seeks to reframe the contextual reference of its inhabitants in order to mitigate its highly trafficked location and create a private beach retreat. In parallel to its unobstructed ocean view, the design carves out infinite pockets of nature within the architecture. From the dining room’s bamboo garden to the expansive skylight above the stairwell, moments of serenity have been carefully composed throughout the home in order to make each frame as infinite as the horizon line of the Pacific Ocean.

Water resistant white laminate floors with microbeveled edges 9.4" x 60". Unilin clic technology for easy install.
AC4 scratch resistance with EIR technology for closest to that genuine wood look.
Attached pad mitigates sound so your laminate floors dampen the sound of walking.
PVC free and floor score certified.
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