The 2024 Southern Living Idea House is a new build that fits perfectly into the lush countryside. Designer and architect Kirsten Schoettelkotte’s design was inspired by the historic farmsteads and traditional architectural styles of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The home has a wide front porch, brick stairway, copper gutters, and a standalone carriage house. The house’s design blended the indoor and outdoor spaces to take full advantage of the surrounding natural environment. “[Nearly] every room in the house has a window, and that was intentional,” said Schoettelkotte. Multiple Marvin products from the Ultimate and Elevate collections were selected for the home. Their durability and customization ability were a perfect fit for the project. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Ultimate Inswing French Door Marvin Ultimate Multi-Slide Door Marvin Elevate Direct Glaze Windows Marvin Elevate Casement Windows Elevate Awning Windows Architecture Firm: MHK Architecture Builder: Dillard-Jones Interior Designer: Allison Elebash Interior Design Landscape: DesignWorks Photos: 22 Waves Creative

Photo: dlzphoto.com This unique Ceiling textured faux finish was created using multiple colors and glazes, it's done to resemble old world look. Total of 4 colors used, Low Luster finish.

The strongest feature of this design is the passage of natural sunlight through every space in the home. The grand hall with clerestory windows, the glazed connection bridge from the primary garage to the Owner’s foyer aligns with the dramatic lighting to allow this home glow both day and night. This light is influenced and inspired by the evergreen forest on the banks of the Florida River. The goal was to organically showcase warm tones and textures and movement. To do this, the surfaces featured are walnut floors, walnut grain matched cabinets, walnut banding and casework along with other wood accents such as live edge countertops, dining table and benches. To further play with an organic feel, thickened edge Michelangelo Quartzite Countertops are at home in the kitchen and baths. This home was created to entertain a large family while providing ample storage for toys and recreational vehicles. Between the two oversized garages, one with an upper game room, the generous riverbank laws, multiple patios, the outdoor kitchen pavilion, and the “river” bath, this home is both private and welcoming to family and friends…a true entertaining retreat.

The strongest feature of this design is the passage of natural sunlight through every space in the home. The grand hall with clerestory windows, the glazed connection bridge from the primary garage to the Owner’s foyer aligns with the dramatic lighting to allow this home glow both day and night. This light is influenced and inspired by the evergreen forest on the banks of the Florida River. The goal was to organically showcase warm tones and textures and movement. To do this, the surfaces featured are walnut floors, walnut grain matched cabinets, walnut banding and casework along with other wood accents such as live edge countertops, dining table and benches. To further play with an organic feel, thickened edge Michelangelo Quartzite Countertops are at home in the kitchen and baths. This home was created to entertain a large family while providing ample storage for toys and recreational vehicles. Between the two oversized garages, one with an upper game room, the generous riverbank laws, multiple patios, the outdoor kitchen pavilion, and the “river” bath, this home is both private and welcoming to family and friends…a true entertaining retreat.

This bright and open kitchen–dining space blends modern luxury with a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Soft natural light pours through the large sliding glass doors and multiple windows, highlighting the wide-plank hardwood floors and the bold mix of dark cabinetry and blue-gray tile backsplash. The spacious island anchors the kitchen with clean quartz surfaces and ample seating. Contemporary light fixtures—one sculptural and one linear—add artistic flair and define each zone within the open layout. The room flows effortlessly from kitchen to dining to outdoor living, making it ideal for everyday living and entertaining.

The Estate by Build Prestige Homes is a grand acreage property featuring a magnificent, impressively built main residence, pool house, guest house and tennis pavilion all custom designed and quality constructed by Build Prestige Homes, specifically for our wonderful client. Set on 14 acres of private countryside, the result is an impressive, palatial, classic American style estate that is expansive in space, rich in detailing and features glamourous, traditional interior fittings. All of the finishes, selections, features and design detail was specified and carefully selected by Build Prestige Homes in consultation with our client to curate a timeless, relaxed elegance throughout this home and property. Build Prestige Homes oriented and designed the home to ensure the main living area, kitchen, covered alfresco areas and master bedroom benefitted from the warm, beautiful morning sun and ideal aspects of the property. Build Prestige Homes detailed and specified expansive, high quality timber bi-fold doors and windows to take advantage of the property including the views across the manicured grass and gardens facing towards the resort sized pool, guest house and pool house. The guest and pool house are easily accessible by the main residence via a covered walkway, but far enough away to provide privacy. All of the internal and external finishes were selected by Build Prestige Homes to compliment the classic American aesthetic of the home. Natural, granite stone walls was used throughout the landscape design and to external feature walls of the home, pool house fireplace and chimney, property boundary gates and outdoor living areas. Natural limestone floor tiles in a subtle caramel tone were laid in a modular pattern and professionally sealed for a durable, classic, timeless appeal. Clay roof tiles with a flat profile were selected for their simplicity and elegance in a modern slate colour. Linea fibre cement cladding weather board combined with fibre cement accent trims was used on the external walls and around the windows and doors as it provides distinctive charm from the deep shadow of the linea. Custom designed and hand carved arbours with beautiful, classic curved rafters ends was installed off the formal living area and guest house. The quality timber windows and doors have all been painted white and feature traditional style glazing bars to suit the style of home. The Estate has been planned and designed to meet the needs of a growing family across multiple generations who regularly host great family gatherings. As the overall design, liveability, orientation, accessibility, innovative technology and timeless appeal have been considered and maximised, the Estate will be a place for this family to call home for decades to come.

The exterior façade of the home is reminiscent of the 50’s with its mixed material aesthetic. The stacked stone veneer is complimented with the Shou Sugi Ban siding. The burned wood finish is an ancient Japanese technique that chars the wood, essentially wrapping it in carbon, adding protection and durability against mold, insects, and moisture related decay. This impressive burned wood finish is not only an indelible product but eye-catching as well. The horizontal and vertical orientation of the wood planks further emphasize the width and height of the structure. The subtle play of each material is simplistic and functional. The home is able to take full advantage of views with the use of Glo’s A7 triple pane windows and doors. The energy-efficient series boasts triple pane glazing, a larger thermal break, high-performance spacers, and multiple air-seals. The large picture windows frame the landscape while maintaining comfortable interior temperatures year-round. The strategically placed operable windows throughout the residence offer cross-ventilation and a visual connection to the sweeping views of Utah. The modern hardware and color selection of the windows are not only aesthetically exceptional, but remain true to the mid-century modern design.

Aqua Forte is a unique artisan technique where organic or intentional patterns are etched into natural stone using multiple etching and engraving methods. After the etching process the stones are hand colorized, gilded or glazed with natural and organic dyes and materials to deliver a uniquely beautiful result.

Photo Credit: Andrew Beasley
Inspiration for a contemporary living room remodel in London

The kids eye view. Little crown moulding detail is a nice touch under the counter top
Example of a beach style kitchen design in Orange County

The new Milgard Tuscany window above the sink, with its dual glaze, ensures energy efficiency while offering a picturesque view. The interior walls, painted in a clean white, further accentuate the kitchen island, painted in a soft baby blue, harmonizing with the light blue tiles, and creating a visually pleasing palette. This remodel isn't just about aesthetics; functionality is at its core. The kitchen island, seating four comfortably, is equipped with multiple outlets, perfect for the modern, multitasking San Jose household. The choice of matte brushed nickel for the cabinet knobs and pulls unifies the kitchen's design elements with a touch of understated elegance. A significant architectural change in this remodel is the removal of the wall separating the great room and kitchen. This strategic decision by May Construction has transformed the space into an open floor plan, fostering a sense of togetherness and fluidity. An exposed beam adorns the ceiling, subtly defining the kitchen and great room areas while maintaining an open, airy feel. May Construction has masterfully transformed a once segmented and dim space into an open, light-filled haven of modern luxury and efficiency. This San Jose kitchen and great room remodel is a testament to their commitment to quality, functionality, and aesthetic excellence. For those in San Jose and beyond looking to rejuvenate their homes, May Construction remains a beacon of innovation and craftsmanship in home remodeling.

beautiful maple cabinetry with chocolate glazing, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, backsplash Since 1984, Jonathan McGrath Construction, a design build custom builder and remodeling company has provided solutions for their client's building needs in the Central Florida area. Jack McGrath, State Certified Building Contractor, applies his extensive custom building and remodeling expertise, creative design concepts and passion for transformation to every project and has earned a reputation for being a true remodeling specialist and custom home builder. Recognized for excellence in the building industry, Jonathan McGrath Construction, has been the recipient of multiple Parade of Homes, MAME and Chrysalis awards. They also received the prestigious ‘Big 50′ Award from Remodeling Magazine for their outstanding business expertise, exemplary customer services and their ability to stand as a dynamic company role model for the building and remodeling industry. In addition, the company has won numerous other local and national awards. The company supports their local, state and national building association. Marion McGrath served as the 2011 President of the Home Builder's Association of Orlando (HBA) now known as the Orlando Builder's Association (GOBA). She was the second woman and remodeler to serve as President in the association's 60 year history.

The Bowtie shape tile is the newest shape we have created. It is a simple shape but delivers a very mesmerizing look when multiples are put together. The homeowner used our Pesto glaze as the main color throughout the installation. With Quails Egg for an accent on the hearth. With the fireplace projecting a couple of inches from the wall the L trims were used to give it a frame. The fireplace has that modern and at the same time timeless feel to it.

The strongest feature of this design is the passage of natural sunlight through every space in the home. The grand hall with clerestory windows, the glazed connection bridge from the primary garage to the Owner’s foyer aligns with the dramatic lighting to allow this home glow both day and night. This light is influenced and inspired by the evergreen forest on the banks of the Florida River. The goal was to organically showcase warm tones and textures and movement. To do this, the surfaces featured are walnut floors, walnut grain matched cabinets, walnut banding and casework along with other wood accents such as live edge countertops, dining table and benches. To further play with an organic feel, thickened edge Michelangelo Quartzite Countertops are at home in the kitchen and baths. This home was created to entertain a large family while providing ample storage for toys and recreational vehicles. Between the two oversized garages, one with an upper game room, the generous riverbank laws, multiple patios, the outdoor kitchen pavilion, and the “river” bath, this home is both private and welcoming to family and friends…a true entertaining retreat.

The Glo A5 double pane windows and doors were utilized for their cost-effective durability and efficiency. The A5 Series provides a thermally-broken aluminum frame with multiple air seals, low iron glass, argon filled glazing, and low-e coating. These features create an unparalleled double-pane product equipped for the variant northern temperatures of the region. With u-values as low as 0.280, these windows ensure year-round comfort.

The cabana at 127 Augusta was designed as a luxurious all-season outdoor living space that seamlessly blends modern architecture, comfort, and functionality. Featuring expansive black-framed glass doors, polished concrete floors, warm natural wood cabinetry, and a sleek contemporary fireplace, this custom cabana delivers a refined indoor-outdoor experience with a clean, modern aesthetic. Inside, the open-concept layout was thoughtfully designed for entertaining and relaxation. Floor-to-ceiling glazing floods the interior with natural light while creating uninterrupted views of the pool and surrounding landscape. The custom lounge area is anchored by a modern fireplace feature wall, adding warmth and ambiance during cooler evenings and extending the usability of the space throughout multiple seasons. The integrated kitchenette and entertainment area feature custom wood millwork, built-in appliances, and minimalist finishes that complement the cabana’s contemporary design. Carefully selected materials, including polished concrete flooring and matte black architectural accents, provide durability, low maintenance, and timeless visual appeal. The transition between the interior cabana space and the outdoor pool area was intentionally designed to feel effortless, creating a resort-inspired atmosphere perfect for hosting guests, relaxing with family, or enjoying year-round backyard living. Every detail of this project reflects premium craftsmanship, modern design principles, and a focus on creating a sophisticated yet highly functional retreat. This project showcases luxury cabana construction, contemporary outdoor living design, modern pool house interiors, custom millwork, polished concrete flooring, indoor-outdoor entertaining spaces, and high-end backyard architecture at 127 Augusta.

BEFORE Picture showing soffits, original cabinetry, which we kept the base cabinet boxes & replaced the doors & hinges, drawer heads, drawer boxes guides, in order to not disturb the new granite countertops, sink, and faucet. The microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher, were the only other items saved and re-used in the new kitchen.

We recently took on an exciting whole-home renovation for this lovely historic Trinity in Center City Philadelphia. Originally built in the mid-1800s, the house footprint is just over 17’ x 13’. As is typical of this type of 3-story house, the kitchen is located in the basement, making this house four floors of occupied space with overall square footage totaling just under 900 square feet. The homeowner felt the former kitchen was cramped, dimly lit, and inefficiently designed, and she was in search of help in bringing her artistic vision for the space to life, blending both old and new elements through an exciting mix of textures and character. High on her priority list was integrating her wonderful collection of objects gathered from her travels around the world. We brought our design skills and construction experience to the team, working with the homeowner and the designer to develop a host of creative solutions, including the installation of an Indonesian screen as a sliding door covering a newly reconfigured utility area, which includes a new on-demand hot water heater, mounted next to a new electrical panel with ample room for service and access. Other Noteworthy Features and Solutions: New crisp drywall blended with original masonry wall textures and original exposed beams Custom-glazed adler wood cabinets, beautiful fusion Quartzite and custom cherry counters, and a copper sink were selected for a wonderful interplay of colors, textures, and Old World feel Small-space efficiencies designed for real-size humans, including built-ins wherever possible, limited free-standing furniture, and no upper cabinets Built-in storage and appliances under the counter (refrigerator, freezer, washer, dryer, and microwave drawer) Additional multi-function storage under stairs Extensive lighting plan with multiple sources and types of light to make this partially below-grade space feel bright and cheery Enlarged window well to bring much more light into the space Insulation added to create sound buffer from the floor above All Photos by Linda McManus Photography

This cozy little powder bath is filled with multiple angles from the architecture of the walls and ceiling to the terraced Italian hillside mural. Upon entering the mural is the focal point next to a show stopping vanity & sink. The completed bath has random areas of decorative break-away Austin stone and a soft warm glaze created with D77. The results are glowing! Artist, Sandra Gonzalez - A Work of Art! #dfwmurals, #D77 #Design7seven