Inspiration for a contemporary bathroom remodel in Denver

Mike Kaskel
Country dark wood floor and brown floor entry hall photo in Houston with white walls

Mike Kaskel
Farmhouse girl dark wood floor kids' room photo in Houston with gray walls

Transitional carpeted bedroom photo in Los Angeles with gray walls

Mike Kaskel
Inspiration for a large timeless l-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen remodel in Houston with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island, marble countertops and subway tile backsplash

Example of a transitional l-shaped light wood floor open concept kitchen design in Los Angeles with flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets and an island

Mid-sized beach style master carpeted bedroom photo in Other with gray walls

Mike Kaskel
Bedroom - traditional dark wood floor bedroom idea in Houston with blue walls

© Linda Jaquez
Example of a trendy enclosed dark wood floor family room design in New York with white walls, no fireplace and no tv

© Linda Jaquez
Nursery - contemporary gender-neutral nursery idea in New York with white walls

Visit NKBA.org/ProSearch to find an NKBA professional near you- turn your dreams into reality! 2013 NKBA Design Competition Finalist 'Rustic Old World Charm' by Richard Ourso, CKD, CAPS Material and Salvage finishes recreate the Old World French décor the clients truly desired. A custom hood was created, using copper, copper rivets, forged-iron strapping and an old beam, and the finish was left with a naturally dark patina. Photo: Chipper Hatter

Visit NKBA.org/ProSearch to find an NKBA professional near you- turn your dreams into reality! Budget Friendly Kitchen & 2nd Place- Medium Kitchen 'Beach Ball' by Cheryl Kees Clendenon Here’s a perfect rendition of a contemporary twist on a classic beach cottage. This kitchen in a rental was designed for the easy navigation of a large number of guests. The island offers generous seating areas and plenty of counter space aptly crafted to serve multiple cooks. Photo: Greg Riegler Photography

Visit NKBA.org/ProSearch to find an NKBA professional near you- turn your dreams into reality! 2nd Place- Large Kitchen & People's Pick Kitchen Winner 'Step Back in Time' by Bryan Reiss, CMKBD This renovated kitchen in an historical home features antiqued, hand-painted finishes and a large antique Chinese print on the soaring wall over the stairs – a step into historic modernity! Oversize cabinets and hefty details on the island are embellished in different shades of gray. Photo: John D Smoak III

Visit NKBA.org/ProSearch to find an NKBA professional near you- turn your dreams into reality! 1st Place- Small Bath & People's Pick Bath 'Room to Grow' by Leslie Lamarre, CKD, CID, CGBP An eight-year-old client can enjoy this grown-up refuge now and for many years to come. Photo: Bernard André Photography

The kitchen is truly the heart of the home in the design for Lisarow House. The bold black cabinets have been paired with warm timber tones to help anchor this kitchen with-in the space. The dark tones are offset by the abundance of natural light that floods in from a double height void over and large stacking doors to the deck areas, providing a sense a light and volume whilst maintaining a cozy ambiance. The kitchen location was carefully considered so it benefits from sightlines to all backyard, entertaining and living spaces.

The knock down & rebuild revolution is here to stay. This new modern family home replaces a tired old house that was not designed to capitalise on its location, whereas this new contemporary modern building has been designed to capitalise on the natural environment – natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views, to create a very liveable coastal family home. This new residence with its contemporary coastal styling utilises the natural finishes of modern materials to ground this family home’s context into this locations evolving executive seaside neighbourhood. This buildings design is a balance of form & function with a deliberate consideration of passive solar liveable design techniques, designed to capture the natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views that this property offers. This new residence has been designed with a variety of indoor & outdoor living areas to capitalise on the natural environment & climate of this property’s location. This house incorporates design elements to allow the house to be comfortable all year round, providing a variety of areas for occupants to utilise, whether it be capturing natural sunlight & warmth in winter, creating cooling cross ventilation from sea breezes in summer & then there is the direct access to a beautifully natural landscaped garden, this new house will provide the occupants with a low maintenance, healthy living environment for years to come.

Located on a heritage-lined street in Melbourne’s Williamstown, a young family were seeking a contemporary home with ample room to grow. Benni Trajcevski of Achieve Design Group answered their call, creating the epitome of modern living concealed behind a modest façade. To achieve the long wish list including large indoor and outdoor gathering spaces to entertain family and friends, separate adult and children living and sleeping zones, and a pool suitable for year-round use, Benni has maximised every inch of the block. Seamless transitional spaces link inside with out. This flow between the indoors and outdoors is a key feature of the home, achieved through generous open floor planning and glazing. For example, large hidden sliding doors allow the pool to be closed-off for use in winter; acrylic glass panels link the pool with the sunken lounge, which includes a fire pit for year-round comfort. The inclusion of a courtyard and voids throughout create separate useable zones while maintaining the feeling of spaciousness. Orientated to the north and surrounded with floor to ceiling windows to optimise natural light, the courtyard divides the formal lounge area with the informal living area, while the first floor is divided into four separate wings for privacy and functionality. The interiors are detailed with quality materials and finishes to achieve a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic. Contrasting materials in muted tones, including tiles, steel and lightweight timbers are featured throughout. Corian and a moss green wall are unexpected features.

Eichler X-100: A Nationally Recognized Architectural Landmark The Eichler X-100 holds a rare distinction in residential real estate—it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing it as a property of exceptional architectural and cultural significance in the United States. This designation places the X-100 among a select group of homes that have not only endured over time, but have helped define the evolution of modern living. What the National Register Means The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation’s most important historic resources—properties that embody significant contributions to architecture, history, and culture. For the Eichler X-100, this recognition affirms: Its role as a groundbreaking experimental prototype Its importance within the broader movement of California Modernism Its association with visionary figures like Joseph Eichler, A. Quincy Jones, and Frederick Emmons It is not simply a well-designed home—it is a documented piece of architectural history. A Rare Level of Integrity One of the key factors in the X-100’s designation is its remarkable level of preservation. Over the decades, the home has been carefully maintained and thoughtfully updated to respect its original vision. Important defining features remain intact, including: The steel-frame structural system The open, garden-centered floor plan Skylights and natural light strategies Signature material palette of steel, glass, and laminate This continuity allows the home to be experienced today much as it was in 1956. Preservation Without Limitation A common misconception is that National Register status restricts ownership—but for private residences, this is not the case. The designation: Does not limit private ownership or resale Does not impose federal restrictions on modifications (unless federal funding is involved) May offer potential incentives or recognition for preservation efforts Instead, it serves primarily as a recognition of significance, elevating the property’s status in both cultural and real estate contexts. A Collector-Level Opportunity For buyers, National Register status adds a layer of meaning that goes beyond square footage or location. It signals that the property is: Architecturally important Historically documented Extremely rare within the marketplace Homes like the Eichler X-100 are often viewed as “trophy properties”—assets that combine lifestyle, design, and long-term cultural value. Stewardship of a Legacy Owning a National Register home like the Eichler X-100 is not just about possession—it’s about participation in a larger story. It means becoming part of a lineage of stewards who understand the importance of: Preserving architectural intent Respecting design integrity Carrying forward a vision that helped shape modern living The Significance Today Nearly 70 years after its debut, the Eichler X-100 continues to stand as a symbol of innovation, optimism, and design excellence. Its listing on the National Register of Historic Places ensures that its story is recognized—but its future will always depend on those who choose to own and care for it. The Eichler X-100 is not just a home on a list. It is a recognized landmark of modern architecture—now ready for its next chapter. Image Sabrina Huang

Tanzania is one of Africa's most remarkable safari destinations, offering travelers an incredible mix of wildlife, dramatic landscapes, ancient ecosystems, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the elephant-rich landscapes of Tarangire, the country provides a wide range of safari opportunities for both first-time visitors and experienced wildlife enthusiasts.

Choosing the right places to visit can be challenging because Tanzania has several national parks and protected areas, each with its own character. Some are famous for large concentrations of wildlife, while others are ideal for quieter game drives, unique landscapes, or boat and walking safaris. Exploring the top safari destinations to visit in Tanzania can help travelers create an itinerary that suits their interests and available time.

1. Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is perhaps the most famous safari destination in Tanzania. Its enormous grasslands and diverse habitats support an extraordinary range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest.

The park is also a major part of the Great Migration. Millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, move through the wider Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water.

A Serengeti safari can provide opportunities to observe predators hunting, large herds crossing the plains, and wildlife gathering around water sources. Because the park is enormous, spending several days here allows visitors to explore different areas and increases the chance of experiencing varied wildlife encounters.

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Tanzania's most distinctive destinations. Its centerpiece is the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast volcanic caldera containing grasslands, wetlands, forests, and a remarkable concentration of wildlife.

Game drives inside the crater can provide sightings of lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, hippos, and many other species. The area is also known for opportunities to see rhinoceros, although sightings are never guaranteed.

The surrounding highlands add another dimension to the experience, with dramatic scenery and cultural connections to local communities. Travelers can combine a crater safari with visits to other northern Tanzania destinations for a more complete journey.

3. Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is particularly famous for elephants and its enormous baobab trees. The landscape is visually distinctive, with open grasslands, woodland, seasonal wetlands, and the Tarangire River.

During drier periods, the river and other water sources can become important gathering points for wildlife. Large elephant groups may be seen moving through the park, while lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and antelope species are also present.

Tarangire can be an excellent choice for travelers who want a quieter safari experience compared with some of Tanzania's more famous parks. Its scenery and wildlife also make it attractive to photographers.

4. Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park offers a very different safari experience from northern Tanzania. It is one of the country's largest protected areas and contains rivers, lakes, woodlands, and open landscapes.

One of the highlights is the opportunity to explore waterways by boat. Boat safaris can provide close views of hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds, and animals coming to the water's edge.

Traditional game drives can reveal elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and other wildlife. The combination of land and water activities makes Nyerere an appealing destination for travelers looking for variety.

Its expansive wilderness can also provide a sense of remoteness that is difficult to find in more developed safari areas.

5. Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania's most impressive wilderness destinations for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and expansive landscapes.

The park features open plains, rocky areas, woodland, and the Great Ruaha River. It supports significant populations of elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and other wildlife.

Ruaha is particularly appealing to experienced safari travelers who want to explore southern Tanzania. The landscape feels wild and spacious, while the lower visitor numbers can create a more private atmosphere during game drives.

The park is also an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts, with a wide variety of species found across its diverse habitats.

6. Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is one of the more accessible safari destinations in Tanzania, making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time.

The park's open grasslands provide habitat for elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, hippos, and various antelope species.

Its location can make it easier to include in itineraries traveling between Dar es Salaam and southern Tanzania. Although it may not have the same international profile as the Serengeti, Mikumi can still offer rewarding wildlife experiences.

For travelers who want a shorter safari without committing to a long journey into remote areas, Mikumi is worth considering.

7. Katavi National Park

Katavi National Park is a destination for travelers searching for a genuinely remote safari experience.

Located in western Tanzania, Katavi receives fewer visitors than the country's most famous parks. Its remote location contributes to the feeling of wilderness and isolation.

The park supports elephants, buffaloes, hippos, lions, and other wildlife. During dry periods, animals may gather around remaining water sources, creating impressive concentrations of wildlife.

Katavi is best suited to adventurous travelers who have enough time to reach a less accessible destination and want to experience Tanzania away from the main safari routes.

8. Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is located close to the city of Arusha and offers a convenient introduction to Tanzania's natural landscapes.

The park contains forests, grasslands, lakes, and mountain environments. Mount Meru dominates the scenery and provides an impressive backdrop.

Visitors can encounter giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, monkeys, antelope, and numerous bird species. Depending on the activity and area, travelers may also enjoy walking experiences.

Because of its location, Arusha National Park can work well as the beginning or ending point of a northern Tanzania itinerary.

9. Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is compact compared with some of Tanzania's larger parks but offers remarkable ecological diversity.

The landscape includes groundwater forests, open plains, woodland, and the lake itself. Elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, hippos, and numerous bird species can be found within the park.

Lake Manyara is also historically associated with tree-climbing lions. Although sightings are never guaranteed, the possibility of seeing lions resting in trees adds to the park's appeal.

Its location makes it convenient to combine with the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti during a northern safari.

10. Mahale Mountains National Park

For travelers who want something completely different, Mahale Mountains National Park offers an extraordinary combination of forest, mountains, and Lake Tanganyika.

The park is particularly famous for chimpanzee trekking. Visitors can walk through forest habitats with trained guides while searching for wild chimpanzees.

The surrounding scenery is equally impressive, with forested mountains rising above the lake. After trekking, travelers can enjoy the peaceful lakeshore environment.

Mahale is remote and requires more planning than many northern safari destinations, but its combination of primate encounters and tropical landscapes makes it unique.

How to Choose the Right Safari Destination

The best destination depends on your interests and travel schedule.

First-time visitors often choose a northern Tanzania circuit combining Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti. This route provides diverse landscapes and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Travelers looking for fewer crowds may prefer Ruaha, Katavi, or Nyerere. Elephant enthusiasts may enjoy Tarangire, while those interested in chimpanzees can consider Mahale.

The time of year also matters. Wildlife movements, rainfall, road conditions, and seasonal water availability can influence what you see. Speaking with an experienced safari operator can help you select destinations that match your travel dates and priorities.

Tips for Planning a Tanzania Safari

A successful safari begins with realistic planning. Avoid trying to visit too many parks during a short trip because long transfers can reduce the time available for wildlife viewing.

Consider spending at least two or three nights in major destinations so you have enough time for several game drives. Domestic flights can be useful when connecting distant parks.

Choose accommodation based on location as well as comfort. Staying closer to the areas you want to explore can reduce driving time and create more opportunities for wildlife encounters.

Most importantly, choose a responsible safari operator that prioritizes wildlife conservation, respects local communities, and follows appropriate viewing practices.

Final Thoughts

Top safari destinations to visit in Tanzania offer an extraordinary variety of safari destinations, making it possible to design a journey around almost any interest. The Serengeti provides iconic landscapes and the Great Migration, Ngorongoro combines wildlife with spectacular volcanic scenery, and Tarangire is renowned for elephants and baobabs.

Further south, Nyerere and Ruaha offer expansive wilderness and fewer visitors, while remote destinations such as Katavi and Mahale provide unique experiences for adventurous travelers.

Whether you are planning your first African safari or returning for a deeper exploration, Tanzania's national parks and protected areas offer countless opportunities to experience wildlife in its natural environment. With thoughtful planning, enough time, and a responsible approach to tourism, a Tanzania safari can become one of the most memorable journeys of your life.