Rick Lee Photo
Inspiration for a rustic living room remodel in Charleston with a stone fireplace

Sleek lines.Slender cable railings ny Keuka Studios, inc.
Example of a minimalist exterior home design in New York

Modern Boy's London Bedroom with custom painted wall design,ikea white Brasa 365 floor lamp, Room & Board kid's table and chairs, Kartell white nightstand, Pottery Barn Navy Camp Bed and Dresser, This is London framed prints and Ikea Chandelier. Photo by Shawn Preston

Photo of a large mediterranean partial sun side yard stone and wood fence flower bed in Chicago for summer.

Photos Courtesy of Sharon Risedorph
Inspiration for a transitional light wood floor dining room remodel in San Francisco with gray walls and a two-sided fireplace

Photography: ©ShadesOfGreen
This is an example of a contemporary backyard landscaping in San Francisco.

FullView Modern Perfectly refined, thoroughly Mendota Designed for those who are ready for the next level of fireplace enjoyment, the Mendota Modern transcends traditional fireplace design and elevates it to a new level of elegance and sophistication. The fact that the passion and beauty is fueled by efficient Mendota BurnGreen™ technology adds to its refined, contemporary appeal. FullView Modern Blending contemporary elements with the primal, instinctive allure of fire, this simple yet stunning fireplace makes a confident statement in any room. An elegant, contemporary fireplace that’s smarter, too Flames leap from a base of natural river rock or glass fire stones A choice of interior linings that intensify the nuances of the fire Combines today’s high-efficiency green technology with century-old Mendota craftsmanship Easily customized with a choice of fronts, doors, fire base and interior linings Remote controlled variable flames: 18,000 to 29,000 BTUH

Mediterranean Equestrian Estate Architect: John Malick & Associates Photographs © 2012 Rusell Abraham
Inspiration for a mediterranean dining room remodel in San Francisco

Traditional exterior home idea in Chicago

The homeowners of this California Cottage wanted a beach vibe in their 1700 sq. ft. home. They wanted to make the most of their spaces by widening doorways, adding wood floors throughout the house, and adding a skylight. The result is cozy, casual California living at its best with frequent family dinners and celebrations with friends. Photos by Erika Bierman www.erikabiermanphotography.com

An unforgettable first impression of the external image of the building consists of its aesthetically perfect forms. Design Studio Dubai Luxury Antonovich Design offers its customers a unique approach to the creation of architectural projects. The exterior design of buildings takes into account all the nuances of modern trends in design and architecture. The combination of the author's ideas, creative solutions form integral and expressive images. The harmony of the external image of the house Exterior design is a deep and multi-faceted process which involves the creation of a perfect and harmonious image of the building with clean lines and forms. In order to harmonize the forms of facades in any style, from classical to modern, Dubai architects skillfully use all methods of composition. This is the right scale, rhythm of the building, its perfect proportions, proportionality, texture of materials and shades. As well as exterior lighting of the house. Gracefully combining such traditional architectural elements as portals, stairs, doors, windows, railings, balustrades, balconies, and others, we create luxurious exteriors of homes that are true masterpieces of architecture. Basics of exteriors expressiveness By creating unique and visually appealling exteriors of buildings, we aim to reflect the respectability of the house and elegantly hint that interior is not less luxurious than exterior. Often, the house exterior design is closely related to interior design. Such things as color, texture, light and shade are the means of architectural composition, with which the architect Dubai creates facades of the unique beauty. To make the exterior more clear and vivid, we use materials with a natural texture, as well as those treated in special ways. And we also combine advantages of natural light and additional artificial lighting of buildings. The exterior design and landscape design The basis of the ideal image of the building is its perfect harmony with the surrounding landscape. Typically, the exterior design of the building is closely related to landscape design. The surrounding landscape becomes a beautiful frame of a nice building. Sculptures in the garden can pick up the elegant decor motives of the building. The highlight of the modern houses design becomes vertical gardening. Especially popular this decor in projects, which are designed in a modern style. Modern technologies allow to create beautiful vertical landscapes, giving the image of a cozy and warm character. The building exterior design is a very important moment in the work on each project. We offer our customers 3D visualization of the exterior, which can also include 3D visualization of landscape design.

From $2995.00 + shipping. Portfolio Bedroom Upholstered Bed – Gorgeous details abound on the Upholstered Bed. The headboard features hand-applied antiqued brass upholstery tacks, a testament not only to the artisan craftsmanship involved in the making of the Bed, but also a subtle adornment that lends character to the design. The oatmeal linen fabric of the headboard provides texture and nuance as well. Finally, the simple design is completed with European Cottage’s signature tapered, fluted feet on the footboard for a light and airy finishing touch. http://houseofdesign.net.au/stylish/romancing-the-master-bedroom/

Such was the interest in the Nuance waterproof panelling, we thought we’d post another bathroom project that shows the product in use as an alternative to tiles. This project in Thornhill, Cardiff, completed last week, took a dated and impractical bathroom and turned it in to a stylish, contemporary family bathroom. It features a bespoke, built-in feature alcove with soft, atmospheric spot lighting that takes you into a spacious shower clad with Nuance waterproof panelling for a continuous, sleek look. We think it looks great – here’s what the customer had to say (see Houzz review hlrich4) : "I contacted Shaun following an advertisement that I saw in the Really Useful Directory. Shaun provided us with an excellent service from our initial meeting with him. He was able to design a bathroom that met our requirements and his suggestions and ideas all met with our approval. Everything about Shaun’s design we liked and we are thrilled with the end product. Throughout the entire process, Shaun has been on hand to answer any queries and kept us updated daily with the movements of the contractors. All the contractors involved throughout the process were extremely professional and friendly and provided an excellent service. They were all extremely tidy and even laid down covering on the stair carpet to avoid any damage. I would thoroughly recommend Shaun and his team without reservation."

In the traditionally rich city of Bhuj, where the architecture is defined by ancient Palaces and Mahals of Kutch style, concrete structures are rare. Most built structures are made of earth and grow from within the landscape, largely becoming a part of it. It was these qualities that inspired Architect Hartmut Wurster, Principal Architect at Blocher Partners India to plan and execute a contextual and widespread residential development in this Kutch region. Sited on the outskirts, this Bhuj Villa and ClubHouse Complex is a relaxed, indulgent oasis with individual farmhouses paired with a clubhouse that would serve as a cocoon of retreats. The client’s vision was to design their dream project as an exemplification of something groundbreaking & out-of-the-box, demonstrating an unparalleled statement in the region. Hence, the design approach was to choose a sustainable pathway integrated with nature, offering a spatial experience that would be an amalgamation of the inside and the outside. Something that enriches the soul and calms the body - the ultimate living experience. The core of the design philosophy revolves around sustainability, which involves not only ecological considerations but also the sustainability of the human experience. The design team aimed to craft a space that withstands the test of time while also contributing to creating a positive surrounding environment. Central to this design approach is the creation of a "happy place." Envisioning a setting where people can immerse themselves in an atmosphere of joy, contentment, and well-being, the design incorporates elements and aesthetics that uplift the spirit, such as vibrant colours, natural materials, and interactive features that engage the senses and promote a sense of happiness. The use of varying intensities of light plays a pivotal role. Different intensities of light are strategically employed to create an ambiance that is both comforting and invigorating. These nuances of light complement the natural elements of the space, creating a harmonious and soothing environment that is sure to put visitors at ease. One of the foremost goals was to foster a sense of belonging. The design takes into account the needs and desires of the community, encouraging a feeling of ownership and connection among the people who use the space. This sense of belonging is reinforced through inclusive and versatile features that accommodate a variety of activities and interests, ensuring that everyone finds their place within the design. The design process involved numerous rounds of sketches, leading to a significant shift in direction from the original plan. Initially, the focus was on creating sample villas, but as the project evolved, the clubhouse emerged as a key element. The primary objective was to ensure that individuals feel content and connected with their surroundings, achieving this through a harmonious blend of materials seamlessly integrated with the natural environment. Human scale in design and planning paired with the use of natural surfaces was integral to fostering a strong connection with nature. The clubhouse design pushed boundaries, aiming to be distinctive and unconventional, while the construction methods incorporated climate-responsive, passive strategies to enhance sustainability. It was vital that the building possessed a sense of mass, providing shelter and protection, especially during the night. The heart of the design lay in the connection established through a series of courtyards, with three main courtyards, including a welcoming one adorned with palm trees and a water fountain, resembling an oasis—a place that offered respite and refreshment. The idea was to transport individuals to another world, akin to an oasis, with arches and arcades guiding them on a journey through shaded passageways, enabling them to stroll around the courtyards, ultimately inducing a sense of tranquillity and relaxation of the mind. The complex was erected through collaboration with the Hunnarshala Foundation, a non-profit organisation in India that emerged following the substantial earthquake in Gujarat in 2001. Their mission is centered on the rejuvenation of the region, support for local craftsmanship, and the training of young people in construction and craft. This complex seamlessly amalgamates state-of-the-art technologies with traditional Indian building techniques, ensuring that the modern-looking buildings always reflect the local architectural heritage. The entry gate, as the portal into this world, is a symbolic representation of the profound transformation and experience that our design aims to provide. Lined with date palms and greens, the streets lead to a striking bricked entrance. This complex, seamlessly integrated with nature, encompasses bungalows, a clubhouse, a restaurant, a pool, a spa area, a bistro, and extensive sports facilities, creating a premium retreat. The architects' rigorous design standards and the well-proportioned structure contribute to this exceptional environment. Surrounded by verdant trails and arched pathways, the entire development appears organically ingrained in the surroundings of Kutch. “Stepping inside the enclave is akin to entering an immersive world where time slows down and nature's wonders take center stage,” says Lead Architect Hartmut. The transitional spaces throughout the clubhouse, planned as open corridors with arcades, directly interact with nature. “In a bid to similarly blur the boundaries in other areas, we have incorporated floating caresses, roofs punctured with openings, and sweeping terraces that further accentuate the connection with the natural world” avers Hartmut. In the holistically-designed master plan each of the 650 bungalows features between four to five rooms, with sizes ranging from 140 to 175 square metres. Applying their grounded concept to personalised spaces, these bungalows showcase a seamless blend of the inside and outside, offering a fluid transition via the living spaces which have roof cut-outs allowing lush greenery to flourish, casting captivating interplays of dynamism. Abundant daylight enters through spacious windows, with these shading elements also modulating the light, creating a subtle and shaded atmosphere while also mitigating heat. The use of materials such as terrazzo floors, Indian marble, and teakwood contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The construction here embraces traditional craftsmanship, as you can see in the careful work on the roof trusses and window frames, all made from reclaimed timber using old-fashioned carpentry methods. To make sure the houses can withstand tough weather, we're using time-tested fired bricks that provide strong protection, and we're choosing our materials thoughtfully, making sure they come from the local area. It's worth noting that the entrance gate and the walls around the area are made from a local stone called 'Bhuj stone.' It's known for its warm, beautiful colours and has a rich history that goes back thousands of years in this region. We even find a use for the leftover bits from cutting and the dust – they're used to create finely polished terrazzo floors, showing our commitment to being resourceful and sustainable. By using these traditional methods and being mindful of recycling and sustainable materials, we've managed to create a place that can coexist harmoniously with the local environment and still meet high design standards, even when dealing with extreme weather conditions. When you step inside the clubhouse, a simple yet imposing circular wall, standing 7 meters tall, greets you. It acts as a peaceful divider, shielding you from the hustle and bustle of urban life and guiding you into a tranquil atmosphere where towering palms and water fountains infuse a calming natural presence. This entrance experience radiates a sense of grandeur and serenity, creating an indoor oasis atmosphere that extends throughout this residential development. Moving ahead, you'll find a remarkable arcade with towering proportions, evoking a sense of awe. The ceiling's glass openings allow natural light to gently filter into the space, responding to the local climate. The clubhouse is thoughtfully designed with three courtyards, each offering a unique sensory experience. The first courtyard unfolds like a living tapestry, inviting you to explore meandering pathways, beautifully designed gardens, and serene water features that reflect the clarity of your thoughts. As you stroll past the restaurant, the second courtyard unveils the swimming pool, accompanied by a cosy cafe. The third courtyard is dedicated to kids' play, equipped with a gym and spa facilities, creating a diverse and enjoyable environment for all. covers a significant portion of the development. It's been thoughtfully designed to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the year, a crucial consideration given The clubhouse, which serves as the epicenter of entertainment and social activities, to the extreme climate of Bhuj. This approach ensures a holistic indoor experience while also reducing energy consumption. The Clubhouse's commitment to sustainability is reflected in the choice of materials. We've used rammed earth walls, reclaimed tiles from local dilapidated structures, recycled wood from a shipbreaking yard, and rich stones, with every material being sourced locally. Bhuj Villa is a living space filled with light, fresh air, and greenery. It provides an immersive experience that blurs the line between what's constructed and what's natural, in harmony with how humans are meant to live, in sync with nature. The project's allure lies in its departure from the bustling megacities of India, where skyscrapers constantly vie for attention with their towering heights. Here, we've created a different kind of living experience, one that's more in touch with the environment and the way people are meant to live. As remarked by Hartmut Wurster, the Principal Architect at Blocher Partners in India, "The Farmhouse stands as an oasis of serenity, evoking a nostalgic return to a bygone era.

In the world of digital commerce, where reach is crucial to growth, expanding your app's audience beyond your early adopters is no longer an option – it's a must. The decision to scale at the right moment and in the right way can make and break your strategy. An essential first step on the road to expansion is localization, a nuanced process carefully designed to adapt your product for specific markets and consumers according to their demands and specificities, language, customs, and cultural nuances. Recognizing the moment to invest in a localization company might spell the difference between global success and standstill. Today, the complexities of global market penetration, where cultural sensitivity and local sensitivities are crucial to success, backing your strategy with a robust localization effort is more important than ever. These are the primary signs that tell you it's time to partner with a localization company. Stagnating or declining downloads, an increase in inquiries and reviews coming in languages other than your app's primary language, high bounce rates from international visitors, noticing competitors are localizing – these are all unmistakable signs. It should be crystal clear when to take action and try something new. It can also be basically the same day. By searching for and recognizing these key signs and signals, you make informed decisions around the right time to engage with a localization company and launch a version of your app in new markets. Sign 1: Stagnant or Declining Downloads One apparent signal that your app might need a localization company could be an unremitting or even downward trend in downloads – which could reflect a market in which there is little or no room for severe expansion or where language and cultural barriers are not adequately considered. Overall, mobile app adoption, which had remained relatively constant for several years, took a hit in 2021 – and in specific sectors, notably gaming, it declined: App Store game downloads pulled back significantly (-6.9%) while Google Play downloads rose slightly (0.6 percent). Identifying the Issue The core problem stems from a linguistic mismatch between the languages available on the app and what users in unaddressed markets are most likely to speak. While apps like BeReal have received high initial downloads, their inability to establish a viable business model and a localization strategy means few stick around. How Localization Can Help Localization can fill this gap by adapting the app to the linguistic and cultural expectations of new target markets. For example, it could translate the app into the local language and adapt the cultural references, local currency, and dates to local expectations. Case Studies of Apps Benefiting from Localization We can measure the extent to which localizing the game was crucial to this success by looking at the rapid rise of Plants vs. Zombies up the Chinese best-seller iTunes charts after the game was localized into Chinese. It quickly shot to the top of the domestic best-seller chart (figure 4), with downloads and user engagement soaring. This is more successful for an already successful game and only a hint of what is possible through localization in turning the fortunes of an app around on the global stage. Sign 2: Increased Inquiries and Reviews in Other Languages If your app suddenly catches many questions and reviews in other languages, that’s a clear sign of interest from non-English-speaking markets. For several reasons, this is a crucial signal: Types of Inquiries Users can ask about app features and payment methods and seek support. Responding in multiple languages is complicated when a company needs multilingual support agents in-house, which is often the case. Bilingual agents or translation software can fill this gap. When we do this work, not only does it boost user confidence, but it also helps convert users into loyal customers. Impact on User Experience Users are much more engaged if they can read the support in their native language. Trust and engagement increase by 120 percent for apps that bring the native language into play; 72 percent of app users do not speak English as a first language. Responding Effectively It's also possible to go one step beyond by producing FAQs, tutorials, or other documents to deal with the most common topics upfront in different languages. Then, the inquiries your team receives will be more challenging, and if a customer does reach out, they will be better satisfied because you have proactively addressed the issue. Finally, watch the right key performance indicators (KPIs) for your support strategy. Many of the questions you answer will be the same across your user base, and you might find it's mainly about one particular product area. Acknowledging that and proactively improving your support in that area can be strategically important. Sign 3: High Bounce Rates from International Visitors Significant bounce rates from international visitors indicate that language barriers or cultural mismatches may limit your app's usability. This can send some users quickly out the door, draining your engagement and potentially stalling your app's success. Understanding Bounce Rates Measures such as bounce rates (defined as the percentage of sessions a user left without interacting further—in the case of apps, not moving beyond the first screen) can reveal that content doesn't resonate with an international audience. They can, therefore, be a useful indicator of potential problems with the language or culturally specific content. Localization Strategies Translation alone is never good enough for effective localization. Your app's content must also adapt to local target markets' cultural and linguistic expectations, tweaking images, formats, and even functionalities according to localized uses and preferences. Measuring the Impact of Localized Content Localized content can drastically reduce bounce rates as the app becomes more accessible and engaging for a global audience. The key numbers to look at are engagement and conversion rates, which typically see quite a substantial increase after a successful localization. Localization benefits not only user experience but also overall market performance. Sign 4: Competitors Have Started Localizing Competitive Advantage The most important competitive advantage you can bring to your app by localizing it is simply catering to your users' geographical preferences. This is especially true since competitors optimize their apps to target different regions, boosting their market penetration and user base. Analyzing Competitors' Strategies Learning what a rival app conveys through its localization implementation, whether by localizing language or culturally customizing content, will provide practical knowledge of target markets and competitive advantages. App Radar provides an overview of a company's localization strategy across multiple countries, which can help highlight competitor strategies. Staying Ahead Keep up to stay ahead—regularly assess your localization by benchmarking against the competition and listening to users to ensure that your app stays relevant and attractive to existing and new users in different markets worldwide. Conclusion Analyzing the informational signs that point towards the requirement of a localization company reveals that mastering localization and its strategies is crucial in the world of apps that aim to reach an international level. Focusing on cultural sensitivity, language adaptation, and the preferences of different markets are the keys to reaching international audiences. These localization strategies help a global app catch the eyes of more people, increasing user involvement and satisfaction and giving developers a chance to widely develop how to buy 1mg Viagra their apps and reach far beyond their original markets. We hope we have convinced the reader that the signs highlighted in the 'Lessons' section can be a black swan indicator when addressed proactively and that they can dramatically change an app's trajectory to the global arena. Striking the right tone with user-centric content and support, accounting for cultural differences, fighting localization competitors, analyzing and improving localization strategy – all of this and more falls under the responsibility of localization companies. And, as we’ve seen, the impact on any given judge of your app won’t be just measured in immediate KPIs. It might as well lay the foundations of your lasting presence and influence on the global digital landscape.

Among the serene sand dunes of Mount Maunganui Beach, a high-end metamorphosis has unfolded, breathing new life into a dated beachfront property. This three-level marvel, a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design, stands as a testament to the transformative power of renovation. Guided by the vision of our clients, JBH embarked on a journey to redefine and revitalise their coastal haven. The project began as an ambitious endeavour to infuse modern aesthetics into every facet of the residence. This was not just a surface-level transformation, it was a meticulous process of rejuvenating the very bones of the structure. Faced with the aftermath of years of water damage, JBH undertook the colossal task of reframing the entire exterior walls. Over the years, small water leaks through the old cladding facade had taken their toll on the structural integrity of the building. The decision to reframe became imperative, ensuring not just a cosmetic upgrade but a robust and enduring foundation for the future. Out with the old and in with the new, a complete overhaul that set the stage for the remarkable metamorphosis that followed. The project began as an ambitious endeavour to infuse modern aesthetics into every facet of the residence. JBH undertook an extensive renovation, reshaping the structure to create a seamless blend of contemporary luxury and coastal charm. A key facet of this involved adopting new claddings to rejuvenate the exterior. The introduction of a concrete plaster system, artfully mimicking concrete precast panels, not only added a touch of sophistication but also imparted a robust and timeless appeal to the home. Vertical rolled seam trays, arranged in a captivating random pattern, further elevated the visual appeal, adding a dynamic and unique texture to the facade. These architectural nuances weren't merely cosmetic, they were a deliberate choice to invite the breathtaking coastal views inside, connecting every space with the vastness of the ocean beyond. One of the primary objectives was to make the most of the stunning panoramic coastal views. JBH achieved this by strategically opening up all spaces, seamlessly integrating the indoors with the outdoors. The result? A home where every room is a vantage point, capturing the ever-changing hues of the ocean and embracing the natural beauty of the surroundings. As the sun rises and sets over Mount Maunganui Beach, the residence undergoes a magical transformation, with each space bathed in the warm glow of natural light. The strategic design choices not only enhance the visual experience but also foster a sense of connection with the coastal environment. This home, born from the collaboration between visionary clients and skilled craftsmen, stands as a testament to the power of a well-executed renovation. The sands of transformation, where architectural innovation meets the tranquillity of coastal living.

Example of a trendy kitchen design in Melbourne

Niches murales lumineuses pour nuit étoilées Couverture de mariage traditionnelle
Example of a small tuscan guest bedroom design in Marseille with gray walls

What Should I Look for in a Designer for Construction and Remodeling? When embarking on a construction or remodeling project, one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is selecting the right designer. Whether you're building a new home, renovating your kitchen, or reimagining your outdoor space, the designer you choose can make or break the success of your project. But what exactly should you look for in a designer who specializes in construction and remodeling? Here are the key factors to consider: 1. Experience in Construction and Remodeling Projects Look for a designer with a solid track record of handling construction and remodeling projects similar to yours. An experienced designer will understand the nuances of structural work, building codes, and how design choices impact functionality and long-term durability. Ask to see their portfolio to ensure their past projects align with your vision. 2. Knowledge of Building Materials A great designer knows more than just aesthetics. They should have a deep understanding of building materials and how they perform under different conditions. For example, they should be able to recommend durable, cost-effective materials for high-traffic areas or eco-friendly options if sustainability is a priority for you. 3. Collaboration with Contractors In construction and remodeling, the designer often works hand-in-hand with contractors. Choose a designer who is skilled in communication and collaboration. They should be able to effectively convey their plans to the construction team and ensure that everyone is aligned throughout the process. 4. Attention to Detail Construction and remodeling involve countless details, from structural elements to finishing touches. A good designer pays attention to all aspects of the project, ensuring nothing is overlooked. This is especially important for remodeling projects, where the existing structure might pose unique challenges. 5. Budget Management Skills Your designer should be as focused on your budget as they are on your design. They need to balance your vision with financial constraints and help you make choices that maximize value without sacrificing quality. Transparency in pricing and cost estimates is a must. 6. Client-Centered Approach Every project is unique because every client is unique. A great designer takes the time to understand your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. They should prioritize your input and ensure the design reflects your vision while also offering professional advice to enhance it. 7. Understanding of Regulations and Permits Construction and remodeling often require permits and must comply with local building codes. A qualified designer should be well-versed in these regulations and guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your project meets all legal requirements. 8. Problem-Solving Abilities Challenges are inevitable in any construction or remodeling project. Whether it’s unexpected structural issues or delays in material delivery, your designer should be resourceful and solution-oriented to keep the project on track. 9. Technology and Visualization Tools Modern design tools like 3D modeling and virtual walkthroughs can help you visualize the final result before construction begins. Look for a designer who utilizes these tools to give you a clear picture of the outcome and ensure there are no surprises. 10. Positive Reviews and References Finally, take the time to read reviews and ask for references. Past clients can provide valuable insights into the designer’s professionalism, communication, and ability to deliver results. A designer with glowing recommendations is often a safe bet. Conclusion Choosing the right designer for your construction or remodeling project requires careful consideration. By focusing on experience, communication skills, attention to detail, and client-centered service, you can find a designer who will bring your vision to life and ensure your project is a success. Remember, the right designer is not just an expense—they are an investment in the quality, functionality, and beauty of your space.