Photo by Jay Sifford.

Way back in the late 1970s, the owners of an 1894 Victorian in Somerville hired Charlie Allen Renovations to renovate and restore their home, a landmark property that had been divided into apartments and lost some of its period charm. This was a memorable project and it was a shock when the homeowners called in December 2014 to let us know that their home had been badly damaged by a fire. They asked if we could once again restore it to its original prominence. This time nearly every original element of the home needed to be restored or rebuilt. We began the process by carefully removing all original moulding and paneling, which was then catalogued, thoroughly cleaned, and stored away. Belfor, a property restoration firm, was hired to remove soot and smoky odors, which required opening the walls and then rebuilding them. Numerous decorative elements throughout the home, including an intricate stained glass window in the dining room, had been too badly damaged to be restored; these were carefully remade by both our talented team and by an exceptional group of project partners, to match their original design. All of the windows in the house had to be replaced, and all of its floors needed to be refinished. Tile hearth surrounding the dining room fireplace and the living room fireplace mantel and surround were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The homeowners also took the opportunity to have some long-desired renovations accomplished, including remodeling the outdated kitchen, which now features an expansive island, pantry closet, new cork flooring, backsplash, and greenhouse window. Today, the house is fully both meticulously restored and remodeled, and the owners are happily back home. At its conclusion, the project was awarded with the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission’s 2017 Directors Award and a 2018 Contractor of the Year Gold Award. Along with Belfor, additional project partners include Jackson Schillaci Woodworking, master finisher Wayne Towle, and Jim Anderson Stained Glass. Photo by Shelly Harrison Photography

Way back in the late 1970s, the owners of an 1894 Victorian in Somerville hired Charlie Allen Renovations to renovate and restore their home, a landmark property that had been divided into apartments and lost some of its period charm. This was a memorable project and it was a shock when the homeowners called in December 2014 to let us know that their home had been badly damaged by a fire. They asked if we could once again restore it to its original prominence. This time nearly every original element of the home needed to be restored or rebuilt. We began the process by carefully removing all original moulding and paneling, which was then catalogued, thoroughly cleaned, and stored away. Belfor, a property restoration firm, was hired to remove soot and smoky odors, which required opening the walls and then rebuilding them. Numerous decorative elements throughout the home, including an intricate stained glass window in the dining room, had been too badly damaged to be restored; these were carefully remade by both our talented team and by an exceptional group of project partners, to match their original design. All of the windows in the house had to be replaced, and all of its floors needed to be refinished. Tile hearth surrounding the dining room fireplace and the living room fireplace mantel and surround were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The homeowners also took the opportunity to have some long-desired renovations accomplished, including remodeling the outdated kitchen, which now features an expansive island, pantry closet, new cork flooring, backsplash, and greenhouse window. Today, the house is fully both meticulously restored and remodeled, and the owners are happily back home. At its conclusion, the project was awarded with the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission’s 2017 Directors Award and a 2018 Contractor of the Year Gold Award. Along with Belfor, additional project partners include Jackson Schillaci Woodworking, master finisher Wayne Towle, and Jim Anderson Stained Glass. Photo by Shelly Harrison Photography

Way back in the late 1970s, the owners of an 1894 Victorian in Somerville hired Charlie Allen Renovations to renovate and restore their home, a landmark property that had been divided into apartments and lost some of its period charm. This was a memorable project and it was a shock when the homeowners called in December 2014 to let us know that their home had been badly damaged by a fire. They asked if we could once again restore it to its original prominence. This time nearly every original element of the home needed to be restored or rebuilt. We began the process by carefully removing all original moulding and paneling, which was then catalogued, thoroughly cleaned, and stored away. Belfor, a property restoration firm, was hired to remove soot and smoky odors, which required opening the walls and then rebuilding them. Numerous decorative elements throughout the home, including an intricate stained glass window in the dining room, had been too badly damaged to be restored; these were carefully remade by both our talented team and by an exceptional group of project partners, to match their original design. All of the windows in the house had to be replaced, and all of its floors needed to be refinished. Tile hearth surrounding the dining room fireplace and the living room fireplace mantel and surround were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The homeowners also took the opportunity to have some long-desired renovations accomplished, including remodeling the outdated kitchen, which now features an expansive island, pantry closet, new cork flooring, backsplash, and greenhouse window. Today, the house is fully both meticulously restored and remodeled, and the owners are happily back home. At its conclusion, the project was awarded with the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission’s 2017 Directors Award and a 2018 Contractor of the Year Gold Award. Along with Belfor, additional project partners include Jackson Schillaci Woodworking, master finisher Wayne Towle, and Jim Anderson Stained Glass. Photo by Shelly Harrison Photography

Way back in the late 1970s, the owners of an 1894 Victorian in Somerville hired Charlie Allen Renovations to renovate and restore their home, a landmark property that had been divided into apartments and lost some of its period charm. This was a memorable project and it was a shock when the homeowners called in December 2014 to let us know that their home had been badly damaged by a fire. They asked if we could once again restore it to its original prominence. This time nearly every original element of the home needed to be restored or rebuilt. We began the process by carefully removing all original moulding and paneling, which was then catalogued, thoroughly cleaned, and stored away. Belfor, a property restoration firm, was hired to remove soot and smoky odors, which required opening the walls and then rebuilding them. Numerous decorative elements throughout the home, including an intricate stained glass window in the dining room, had been too badly damaged to be restored; these were carefully remade by both our talented team and by an exceptional group of project partners, to match their original design. All of the windows in the house had to be replaced, and all of its floors needed to be refinished. Tile hearth surrounding the dining room fireplace and the living room fireplace mantel and surround were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The homeowners also took the opportunity to have some long-desired renovations accomplished, including remodeling the outdated kitchen, which now features an expansive island, pantry closet, new cork flooring, backsplash, and greenhouse window. Today, the house is fully both meticulously restored and remodeled, and the owners are happily back home. At its conclusion, the project was awarded with the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission’s 2017 Directors Award and a 2018 Contractor of the Year Gold Award. Along with Belfor, additional project partners include Jackson Schillaci Woodworking, master finisher Wayne Towle, and Jim Anderson Stained Glass. Photo by Shelly Harrison Photography

The grey trend has evolved in the last twelve months. Nowadays browns, beige and a touch of grey are in demand. Greige is the new buzzword. Heavier hand scraped or contoured products, the rage that started around 2005 has taken a back seat in most areas, while a softer wire brushed "ceruse effect" seen mostly on White Oak has been remarkably strong showing no effects of becoming “dated” like the others mentioned. Ceruse Color Possibilities There are numerous color combinations to the "cerused" process with the most popular being white or off white. This design trend in hardwood flooring can have darker gray white oak with a mild ceruse off white effect. There are limitless possibilities in either a prefinished hardwood floor or with what we can create for you in a custom on-site finished hardwood floor. If something suits your fancy, contact us and we can work on creating just the look and sense of style you are looking for.

Replacement metal roof on the primary house, breezeway, and garage of this expansive residence in Waccabuc, New York. The uncluttered and sleek lines of this mid-century modern residence combined with organic, geometric forms to create numerous ridges and valleys which had to be taken into account during the installation. Further, numerous protrusions had to be navigated and flashed. We specified and installed Englert 24 gauge steel in matte black to compliment the dark brown siding of this residence. All in, this installation required 6,300 square feet of standing seam steel.

Side view of a replacement metal roof on the primary house and breezeway of this expansive residence in Waccabuc, New York. The uncluttered and sleek lines of this mid-century modern residence combined with organic, geometric forms to create numerous ridges and valleys which had to be taken into account during the installation. Further, numerous protrusions had to be navigated and flashed. We specified and installed Englert 24 gauge steel in matte black to compliment the dark brown siding of this residence. All in, this installation required 6,300 square feet of standing seam steel.

Way back in the late 1970s, the owners of an 1894 Victorian in Somerville hired Charlie Allen Renovations to renovate and restore their home, a landmark property that had been divided into apartments and lost some of its period charm. This was a memorable project and it was a shock when the homeowners called in December 2014 to let us know that their home had been badly damaged by a fire. They asked if we could once again restore it to its original prominence. This time nearly every original element of the home needed to be restored or rebuilt. We began the process by carefully removing all original moulding and paneling, which was then catalogued, thoroughly cleaned, and stored away. Belfor, a property restoration firm, was hired to remove soot and smoky odors, which required opening the walls and then rebuilding them. Numerous decorative elements throughout the home, including an intricate stained glass window in the dining room, had been too badly damaged to be restored; these were carefully remade by both our talented team and by an exceptional group of project partners, to match their original design. All of the windows in the house had to be replaced, and all of its floors needed to be refinished. Tile hearth surrounding the dining room fireplace and the living room fireplace mantel and surround were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The homeowners also took the opportunity to have some long-desired renovations accomplished, including remodeling the outdated kitchen, which now features an expansive island, pantry closet, new cork flooring, backsplash, and greenhouse window. Today, the house is fully both meticulously restored and remodeled, and the owners are happily back home. At its conclusion, the project was awarded with the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission’s 2017 Directors Award and a 2018 Contractor of the Year Gold Award. Along with Belfor, additional project partners include Jackson Schillaci Woodworking, master finisher Wayne Towle, and Jim Anderson Stained Glass. Photo by Shelly Harrison

Way back in the late 1970s, the owners of an 1894 Victorian in Somerville hired Charlie Allen Renovations to renovate and restore their home, a landmark property that had been divided into apartments and lost some of its period charm. This was a memorable project and it was a shock when the homeowners called in December 2014 to let us know that their home had been badly damaged by a fire. They asked if we could once again restore it to its original prominence. This time nearly every original element of the home needed to be restored or rebuilt. We began the process by carefully removing all original moulding and paneling, which was then catalogued, thoroughly cleaned, and stored away. Belfor, a property restoration firm, was hired to remove soot and smoky odors, which required opening the walls and then rebuilding them. Numerous decorative elements throughout the home, including an intricate stained glass window in the dining room, had been too badly damaged to be restored; these were carefully remade by both our talented team and by an exceptional group of project partners, to match their original design. All of the windows in the house had to be replaced, and all of its floors needed to be refinished. Tile hearth surrounding the dining room fireplace and the living room fireplace mantel and surround were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The homeowners also took the opportunity to have some long-desired renovations accomplished, including remodeling the outdated kitchen, which now features an expansive island, pantry closet, new cork flooring, backsplash, and greenhouse window. Today, the house is fully both meticulously restored and remodeled, and the owners are happily back home. At its conclusion, the project was awarded with the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission’s 2017 Directors Award and a 2018 Contractor of the Year Gold Award. Along with Belfor, additional project partners include Jackson Schillaci Woodworking, master finisher Wayne Towle, and Jim Anderson Stained Glass. Photo by Shelly Harrison Photography

Way back in the late 1970s, the owners of an 1894 Victorian in Somerville hired Charlie Allen Renovations to renovate and restore their home, a landmark property that had been divided into apartments and lost some of its period charm. This was a memorable project and it was a shock when the homeowners called in December 2014 to let us know that their home had been badly damaged by a fire. They asked if we could once again restore it to its original prominence. This time nearly every original element of the home needed to be restored or rebuilt. We began the process by carefully removing all original moulding and paneling, which was then catalogued, thoroughly cleaned, and stored away. Belfor, a property restoration firm, was hired to remove soot and smoky odors, which required opening the walls and then rebuilding them. Numerous decorative elements throughout the home, including an intricate stained glass window in the dining room, had been too badly damaged to be restored; these were carefully remade by both our talented team and by an exceptional group of project partners, to match their original design. All of the windows in the house had to be replaced, and all of its floors needed to be refinished. Tile hearth surrounding the dining room fireplace and the living room fireplace mantel and surround were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The homeowners also took the opportunity to have some long-desired renovations accomplished, including remodeling the outdated kitchen, which now features an expansive island, pantry closet, new cork flooring, backsplash, and greenhouse window. Today, the house is fully both meticulously restored and remodeled, and the owners are happily back home. At its conclusion, the project was awarded with the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission’s 2017 Directors Award and a 2018 Contractor of the Year Gold Award. Along with Belfor, additional project partners include Jackson Schillaci Woodworking, master finisher Wayne Towle, and Jim Anderson Stained Glass. Photo by Shelly Harrison Photography

Skylight flashing detail on a replacement metal roof of this expansive residence in Waccabuc, New York. The uncluttered and sleek lines of this mid-century modern residence combined with organic, geometric forms to create numerous ridges and valleys which had to be taken into account during the installation. Further, numerous protrusions had to be navigated and flashed. We specified and installed Englert 24 gauge steel in matte black to compliment the dark brown siding of this residence. All in, this installation required 6,300 square feet of standing seam steel.

The "Before" of this replacement metal roof on the primary house, breezeway, and garage of this expansive residence in Waccabuc, New York. The uncluttered and sleek lines of this mid-century modern residence combined with organic, geometric forms to create numerous ridges and valleys which had to be taken into account during the installation. Further, numerous protrusions had to be navigated and flashed. We specified and installed Englert 24 gauge steel in matte black to compliment the dark brown siding of this residence. All in, this installation required 6,300 square feet of standing seam steel.

Overhead view of a replacement metal roof on the primary house of this expansive residence in Waccabuc, New York. The uncluttered and sleek lines of this mid-century modern residence combined with organic, geometric forms to create numerous ridges and valleys which had to be taken into account during the installation. Further, numerous protrusions had to be navigated and flashed. We specified and installed Englert 24 gauge steel in matte black to compliment the dark brown siding of this residence. All in, this installation required 6,300 square feet of standing seam steel.

Front view of a replacement metal roof on the primary house, breezeway, and garage of an expansive residence in Waccabuc, New York. The uncluttered and sleek lines of this mid-century modern residence combined with organic, geometric forms to create numerous ridges and valleys which had to be taken into account during the installation. Further, numerous protrusions had to be navigated and flashed. We specified and installed Englert 24 gauge steel in matte black to compliment the dark brown siding of this residence. All in, this installation required 6,300 square feet of standing seam steel.

The design of this home was driven by the owners’ desire for a three-bedroom waterfront home that showcased the spectacular views and park-like setting. As nature lovers, they wanted their home to be organic, minimize any environmental impact on the sensitive site and embrace nature. This unique home is sited on a high ridge with a 45° slope to the water on the right and a deep ravine on the left. The five-acre site is completely wooded and tree preservation was a major emphasis. Very few trees were removed and special care was taken to protect the trees and environment throughout the project. To further minimize disturbance, grades were not changed and the home was designed to take full advantage of the site’s natural topography. Oak from the home site was re-purposed for the mantle, powder room counter and select furniture. The visually powerful twin pavilions were born from the need for level ground and parking on an otherwise challenging site. Fill dirt excavated from the main home provided the foundation. All structures are anchored with a natural stone base and exterior materials include timber framing, fir ceilings, shingle siding, a partial metal roof and corten steel walls. Stone, wood, metal and glass transition the exterior to the interior and large wood windows flood the home with light and showcase the setting. Interior finishes include reclaimed heart pine floors, Douglas fir trim, dry-stacked stone, rustic cherry cabinets and soapstone counters. Exterior spaces include a timber-framed porch, stone patio with fire pit and commanding views of the Occoquan reservoir. A second porch overlooks the ravine and a breezeway connects the garage to the home. Numerous energy-saving features have been incorporated, including LED lighting, on-demand gas water heating and special insulation. Smart technology helps manage and control the entire house. Greg Hadley Photography

The original kitchen in this condominium was renovated arising from the need to replace Kitec plumbing. The work triangle remained generally the same, but numerous changes were made to improve the kitchen’s functionality, aesthetics, and lighting. Automation was also introduced. The goal was to design and build a modern contemporary functional kitchen with inspiring colours accented with textured wood features. The functionality was improved with the addition of an under counter microwave, which freed up countertop space. Additional and improved storage was also created by incorporating under cabinet drawers throughout the kitchen, a bar area with open glass shelving above, and open shelving to the right of the seating area. Upper cabinet storage was as well increased with storage above the fridge. Numerous lighting improvements were made including the addition of potlights. This was done by dropping the ceiling in the kitchen, which also created a visual division with the dining area. Automation was introduced as well into the space with HUE under cabinet lighting, and a touch faucet. The under cabinet lights are controlled by the Phillips Hue App that programs routines, scenes, and other settings. The kitchen features painted Shaker cabinets accented by textured wood shelving. The countertop surfaces are quartz with waterfalls on both sides of the island, which is a focal point. Shapes are also strongly identified in the design with the use of triangular tiles in the backsplash along with rectangular upper cabinets, and appliance doors and drawers. The kitchen is made most unique though with the uplifting use of colour in the cabinets that make this a bright and cheerful space. Aristea Photography

The original kitchen in this condominium was renovated arising from the need to replace Kitec plumbing. The work triangle remained generally the same, but numerous changes were made to improve the kitchen’s functionality, aesthetics, and lighting. Automation was also introduced. The goal was to design and build a modern contemporary functional kitchen with inspiring colours accented with textured wood features. The functionality was improved with the addition of an under counter microwave, which freed up countertop space. Additional and improved storage was also created by incorporating under cabinet drawers throughout the kitchen, a bar area with open glass shelving above, and open shelving to the right of the seating area. Upper cabinet storage was as well increased with storage above the fridge. Numerous lighting improvements were made including the addition of potlights. This was done by dropping the ceiling in the kitchen, which also created a visual division with the dining area. Automation was introduced as well into the space with HUE under cabinet lighting, and a touch faucet. The under cabinet lights are controlled by the Phillips Hue App that programs routines, scenes, and other settings. The kitchen features painted Shaker cabinets accented by textured wood shelving. The countertop surfaces are quartz with waterfalls on both sides of the island, which is a focal point. Shapes are also strongly identified in the design with the use of triangular tiles in the backsplash along with rectangular upper cabinets, and appliance doors and drawers. The kitchen is made most unique though with the uplifting use of colour in the cabinets that make this a bright and cheerful space. Aristea Photography

The original kitchen in this condominium was renovated arising from the need to replace Kitec plumbing. The work triangle remained generally the same, but numerous changes were made to improve the kitchen’s functionality, aesthetics, and lighting. Automation was also introduced. The goal was to design and build a modern contemporary functional kitchen with inspiring colours accented with textured wood features. The functionality was improved with the addition of an under counter microwave, which freed up countertop space. Additional and improved storage was also created by incorporating under cabinet drawers throughout the kitchen, a bar area with open glass shelving above, and open shelving to the right of the seating area. Upper cabinet storage was as well increased with storage above the fridge. Numerous lighting improvements were made including the addition of potlights. This was done by dropping the ceiling in the kitchen, which also created a visual division with the dining area. Automation was introduced as well into the space with HUE under cabinet lighting, and a touch faucet. The under cabinet lights are controlled by the Phillips Hue App that programs routines, scenes, and other settings. The kitchen features painted Shaker cabinets accented by textured wood shelving. The countertop surfaces are quartz with waterfalls on both sides of the island, which is a focal point. Shapes are also strongly identified in the design with the use of triangular tiles in the backsplash along with rectangular upper cabinets, and appliance doors and drawers. The kitchen is made most unique though with the uplifting use of colour in the cabinets that make this a bright and cheerful space. Aristea Photography