Photography by Ken Wyner 2101 Connecticut Avenue (c.1928), an 8-story brick and limestone Beaux Arts style building with spacious apartments, is said to have been “the finest apartment house to appear in Washington between the two World Wars.” (James M. Goode, Best Addresses, 1988.) As advertised for rent in 1928, the apartments were designed “to incorporate many details that would aid the residents in establishing a home atmosphere, one possessing charm and dignity usually found only in a private house… the character and tenancy (being) assured through careful selection of guests.” Home to Senators, Ambassadors, a Vice President and a Supreme Court Justice as well as numerous Washington socialites, the building still stands as one of the undisputed “best addresses” in Washington, DC.) So well laid-out was this gracious 3,000 sf apartment that the basic floor plan remains unchanged from the original architect’s 1927 design. The organizing feature was, and continues to be, the grand “gallery” space in the center of the unit. Every room in the apartment can be accessed via the gallery, thus preserving it as the centerpiece of the “charm and dignity” which the original design intended. Programmatic modifications consisted of the addition of a small powder room off of the foyer, and the conversion of a corner “sun room” into a room for meditation and study. The apartment received a thorough updating of all systems, services and finishes, including a new kitchen and new bathrooms, several new built-in cabinetry units, and the consolidation of numerous small closets and passageways into more accessible and efficient storage spaces.

Originally built in 1915 in the Shingle style, this house was “modernized” in the 1940’s to be a center hall colonial. The transformation resulted in several eccentricities that, when combined with the history of the house, informed our design. We have been working with the family for many years, and have been responsible for the architecture, the interior design, and selection of all furniture, finishes, artwork, lighting, antiques, etc. We have also coordinated the efforts of numerous other consultants, including the landscape architect, the well driller, the landscape lighting designer, and more. We have also designed multiple custom furniture pieces, and worked with numerous artisans and craftspeople on specific pieces for the house. Our design retains the character and detail of original house, yet works in furniture pieces and design elements that seamlessly tie together a blend of western and eastern influences. We renovated and/or created following: family room, workroom, laundry room, guest suite, home office, and wine cellar in the basement; living room, dining room, sun room with bar, family room, powder room, kitchen, and breakfast area on the first floor; master suite and three bedrooms and two bathrooms on second floor; home office, and study on third floor; and painting studio, reading room, bathroom, and 3-car garage in carriage house. The home includes a Japanese Tearoom and a Japanese Guest Suite. The project included installation of all new systems, including forced air heating and cooling, hydronic radiant heating on all floors, new plumbing and bathrooms throughout, new insulation, and a new slate roof with copper gutters and leaders. We also renovated the carriage house where we added dormers, a porch, and transformed the building into a painting studio, with views out to the new Japanese Garden.

Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties ConnecticutOutdoor LED Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut.Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut. Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut. AOLP- Association of OUTDOOR LIGHTING PROFESSIONALS. www.OutdoorLightingCt.com Outdoor Lighting Designer and two time Landscape AOLP Lighting award recipient Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut shows us here how living beyond the walls of your home outdoors at night can be NIGHT TIME FABULOUS. GO TO WWW.OUTDOORLIGHTINGCT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE. "LET ME show you JUST HOW GOOD YOUR HOUSE LOOKS AT NIGHT" Steve P. offered the following endorsement about Gotowala's Outdoor Lighting talents. Michael is clearly one of the best landscape lighting designers in the country. In my role as a photographer of outdoor lighting, I've visited and photographed many of Michael's projects - not only were the lighting designs creative and effective, they were also installed perfectly with a great attention to detail. My photos of Michael's projects have been published in numerous trade journals and design magazines. Editors are thrilled with these outstanding examples of landscape lighting. Michael has embraced both the art and science of lighting design and applies it to create compelling nighttime environments for his very lucky clients. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael for any kind of outdoor lighting product. You willed be thrilled with the results.AOLP- Association of OUTDOOR LIGHTING PROFESSIONALS. www.OutdoorLightingCt.com Outdoor Lighting Designer and two time Landscape AOLP Lighting award recipient Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut shows us here how living beyond the walls of your home outdoors at night can be NIGHT TIME FABULOUS. GO TO WWW.OUTDOORLIGHTINGCT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE. "LET ME show you JUST HOW GOOD YOUR HOUSE LOOKS AT NIGHT" Steve P. offered the following endorsement about Gotowala's Outdoor Lighting talents. Michael is clearly one of the best landscape lighting designers in the country. In my role as a photographer of outdoor lighting, I've visited and photographed many of Michael's projects - not only were the lighting designs creative and effective, they were also installed perfectly with a great attention to detail. My photos of Michael's projects have been published in numerous trade journals and design magazines. Editors are thrilled with these outstanding examples of landscape lighting. Michael has embraced both the art and science of lighting design and applies it to create compelling nighttime environments for his very lucky clients. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael for any kind of outdoor lighting product. You willed be thrilled with the results.

Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties ConnecticutOutdoor LED Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut.Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut. Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut. AOLP- Association of OUTDOOR LIGHTING PROFESSIONALS. www.OutdoorLightingCt.com Outdoor Lighting Designer and two time Landscape AOLP Lighting award recipient Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut shows us here how living beyond the walls of your home outdoors at night can be NIGHT TIME FABULOUS. GO TO WWW.OUTDOORLIGHTINGCT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE. "LET ME show you JUST HOW GOOD YOUR HOUSE LOOKS AT NIGHT" Steve P. offered the following endorsement about Gotowala's Outdoor Lighting talents. Michael is clearly one of the best landscape lighting designers in the country. In my role as a photographer of outdoor lighting, I've visited and photographed many of Michael's projects - not only were the lighting designs creative and effective, they were also installed perfectly with a great attention to detail. My photos of Michael's projects have been published in numerous trade journals and design magazines. Editors are thrilled with these outstanding examples of landscape lighting. Michael has embraced both the art and science of lighting design and applies it to create compelling nighttime environments for his very lucky clients. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael for any kind of outdoor lighting product. You willed be thrilled with the results.AOLP- Association of OUTDOOR LIGHTING PROFESSIONALS. www.OutdoorLightingCt.com Outdoor Lighting Designer and two time Landscape AOLP Lighting award recipient Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut shows us here how living beyond the walls of your home outdoors at night can be NIGHT TIME FABULOUS. GO TO WWW.OUTDOORLIGHTINGCT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE. "LET ME show you JUST HOW GOOD YOUR HOUSE LOOKS AT NIGHT" Steve P. offered the following endorsement about Gotowala's Outdoor Lighting talents. Michael is clearly one of the best landscape lighting designers in the country. In my role as a photographer of outdoor lighting, I've visited and photographed many of Michael's projects - not only were the lighting designs creative and effective, they were also installed perfectly with a great attention to detail. My photos of Michael's projects have been published in numerous trade journals and design magazines. Editors are thrilled with these outstanding examples of landscape lighting. Michael has embraced both the art and science of lighting design and applies it to create compelling nighttime environments for his very lucky clients. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael for any kind of outdoor lighting product. You willed be thrilled with the results.

Originally built in 1915 in the Shingle style, this house was “modernized” in the 1940’s to be a center hall colonial. The transformation resulted in several eccentricities that, when combined with the history of the house, informed our design. We have been working with the family for many years, and have been responsible for the architecture, the interior design, and selection of all furniture, finishes, artwork, lighting, antiques, etc. We have also coordinated the efforts of numerous other consultants, including the landscape architect, the well driller, the landscape lighting designer, and more. We have also designed multiple custom furniture pieces, and worked with numerous artisans and craftspeople on specific pieces for the house. Our design retains the character and detail of original house, yet works in furniture pieces and design elements that seamlessly tie together a blend of western and eastern influences. We renovated and/or created following: family room, workroom, laundry room, guest suite, home office, and wine cellar in the basement; living room, dining room, sun room with bar, family room, powder room, kitchen, and breakfast area on the first floor; master suite and three bedrooms and two bathrooms on second floor; home office, and study on third floor; and painting studio, reading room, bathroom, and 3-car garage in carriage house. The home includes a Japanese Tearoom and a Japanese Guest Suite. The project included installation of all new systems, including forced air heating and cooling, hydronic radiant heating on all floors, new plumbing and bathrooms throughout, new insulation, and a new slate roof with copper gutters and leaders. We also renovated the carriage house where we added dormers, a porch, and transformed the building into a painting studio, with views out to the new Japanese Garden.

At the outset, this project began with the transformation of a 2-car attached garage. The goal was to create a mudroom, an exercise room, and a breezeway to seamlessly connect the spacious detached garage with the main part of the house. Additionally, the project involved partial roof removal and the addition of a new front entry. But then came an unexpected twist – scope creep. We found ourselves veering away from the initial client-supplied architectural plans. After numerous consultations with the clients and several iterations of the design, we arrived at a significantly improved plan for the remodel and addition. Our journey commenced with the demolition of almost the entire former 2-car garage, making space for a new, oversized 3-car garage measuring 40′ x 28′. This garage was strategically placed between the existing house and the large detached garage. We introduced a custom low-sloped flat roof, designed to address historical drainage issues. To mitigate water pooling, we created a custom concrete step at the back corner of the garage, equipped with a sturdy metal grate that sits flush with the step. We also installed a PVC drainage system, commencing at the step and running beneath a newly designed patio, ultimately draining into the yard. These measures have significantly reduced water accumulation around the house. The new garage boasts several features, including Longboard aluminum siding, custom full glass garage doors, interior drywall finished to a level 4, an abundance of can lights, an epoxy floor coating, vinyl base trim, a new forced air garage heater, and more. The clients also requested a designated space for their three kids and their friends to enjoy, thus giving birth to the “Kid Zone.” We partitioned a section of the existing oversized garage, resulting in a space measuring approximately 22′ x 32′, brimming with entertainment possibilities. To enhance control over the temperature in the Kid Zone, we collaborated with our licensed HVAC partner to install a cold weather mini-split system. One of the most significant challenges was the modernization and consolidation of the home’s main electrical systems. We reconfigured and combined 6-7 different electrical panels into just two. One panel serves the main house, while the second is dedicated to backup power from a generator. These panels, along with the boiler for the in-floor heating system, are housed in a newly constructed mechanical room within the Kid Zone. Inside the main house, we completed various tasks, such as removing the ceiling in the hallway from the new garage to address prior water damage, improve insulation, and rework electrical and HVAC systems. We also replaced the ceiling from the front door to the base of the stairs, adding new can lighting and enhancing insulation. Skilled drywall specialists then installed and finished new drywall to a level 5 standard. The exterior of the house underwent a complete overhaul. Before installing new roofing on the entire house and garage, we modified an existing flat roof by adding custom lumber and plywood to enhance the pitch, preventing future ice dams. A new rubber roof was expertly installed on the oversized 3-car garage, and the flat roof section we re-framed. Our meticulous exterior team removed old white aluminum soffit, fascia, and gutters, replacing them with new framing to accommodate Longboard soffit material. This task was particularly challenging due to the age of the house and the non-standard wall and roof framing. Our skilled exterior subcontractors ensured a perfect fit. Near the pool area, we discovered severe rot and decay from years of water intrusion. After informing the homeowners, we ordered and installed five new commercial-style block framed windows and a custom 8′ high Anderson patio door. This involved careful removal and replacement of window headers from the outside to avoid disturbing the finished part of the house. We reframed the large openings to fit the new windows, and our skilled trim carpenters installed new walnut casing, base, and window sills. In total, we replaced around 900 lineal feet of soffit and installed approximately 32 squares of aluminum siding. The entire house was meticulously prepped, repaired, and painted according to the client’s chosen color. Throughout the project, we incorporated numerous custom touches and unique design elements, some of which you can see in the pictures. Our team also addressed various unforeseen challenges, from soil issues to rot and decay repair, roof leaks, drainage problems, electrical and HVAC complexities, and much more. At Xpand Inc., we take pride in making it all happen, turning your remodeling and renovation dreams into reality.

Both the front and rear of this beautiful South Tampa home are illuminated, as well as the walkways down both sides. A feeling of security is an added bonus of a lighting system installed primarily for accent and beauty. We addressed the architectural features of the home, including adding recessed fixtures in the pavers to illuminate the entryway and second story lighting to showcase the areas over the garage. We also showcased the large oak canopies that flow over the front yard from both sides. The pool perimeter is warmly illuminated with the reflected light off the numerous andonidia palm clusters. The entire project is done in cast brass with LED illumination. Perhaps the most flattering part of this project is having the homeowner call us out numerous times to make additions and adjustments as they improve their home. It's a pleasure to work with homeowners and build long-term relationships as they add a pool or make landscaping upgrades, etc. We've received several referrals from this customer as well, the ultimate compliment.

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours Lake Lanier Custom Homes Envision Web Nestled in the foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains and nurtured by the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers, Lake Sidney Lanier is named for the poet Sidney Clopton Lanier, whose admiration of the area's scenic beauty inspired him to compose his famous "Song of the Chattahoochee". Lake Lanier is one of America's favorite lakes. With several million visitors annually enjoying its recreational facilities, it has been the most visited Corp of Engineers project in the nation. One reason for the lake's popularity is its proximity to metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. A well-developed road network surrounds Lake Lanier, with several highways crossing the main body. Visitors can enjoy the city of Atlanta and, in the space of a short drive, can lose themselves in the tranquility at Lake Lanier. Lake Lanier, impounded by Buford Dam, encompasses 38,000 surface acres of water with 540 miles of shorelines. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has developed and operates numerous public parks around the lake for camping and day-use activities. Lake Lanier Islands, a development by the State of Georgia and the Corps of Engineers, is the major resort area on the lake. The Islands complex provides picnicking, camping, beach areas, a water theme park, tennis courts, golf courses, rental boats, and hotel accommodations. Numerous other recreation areas operated by county and city agencies also offer recreational opportunities around the lake. Lake Lanier was host to the 1996 Centennial Olympic Rowing and Sprint/Canoe/Kayak Events, as well as the 1996 Paralympic Yachting events. These honors have helped make Lanier a world class lake.

Harmony and balance in a calm environment; the desires of the client which drove the design of the residence. The old residence, a 1,423 sf beachside bungalow was purchased by the client in an effort to down size and center their family. The new is a 2,350 sf entire redesign of the old building footprint which has created an open kitchen, living and dining space that connects the front of the home to the back yard. The design of an open concept home forced the client to examine their family dynamic and came to realize that they really enjoy being in the same place together. Numerous skylights, tall windows, wall cutouts, sliding patio doors, and even half wall showers in the bathrooms make for open, airy, naturally lit spaces that flow seamlessly into one another. The kitchen is a focal point as you enter the home and was designed so that the utilitarian features are tucked behind the main wall providing a clean yet fully functional space. Warmth was added to the main space using Scandinavian white oak flooring and a dining bench that is built into the floor-to-ceiling cedar feature wall. The same cedar was used to line the kitchen island and the closet wall in master bedroom. The front of the residence features an ocean view deck that is nicely complemented by one of numerous simple elongated roof planes.

Introducing our Hand-Woven Flat Weave Solid Area Rug, a testament to artisanal craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Skillfully crafted by hand, this exquisite rug features a flat weave construction that highlights the natural beauty of wool in a captivating plum hue. Versatile and stylish, this rug effortlessly enhances any room with its understated sophistication. Its lightweight design makes it easy to move and position, allowing you to effortlessly update your space whenever inspiration strikes. Crafted with eco-friendly materials and a commitment to sustainability, this rug is not only a stylish addition to your home but also a conscious choice for the planet. The anti-slip backing ensures stability, providing peace of mind in high-traffic areas. Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality with our Hand-Woven Flat Weave Solid Area Rug. Whether you're seeking to add warmth to your living room or revitalize your bedroom decor, this rug promises to elevate your space with its timeless charm and easy-to-maintain beauty. [FEATURES] *PATTERN - Solid *COLOR - Plum *MATERIAL - Solid *MATERIAL COMPOSITION - 8'x10' *CONSTRUCTION - Rectangle *WEAVE - Plum *COUNTRY OF ORIGIN - India *BRAND - RUGSOTIC CARPETS *MANUFACTURER - GET MY RUGS LLC *SHIPPING - Free Shipping *OCCASION - All *ROOM TYPE - Living Room, Bed Room, Study Room, Guest Room, Kids Room, Office *CARE INSTRUCTION - Vacuum Cleaning *ECO-FRIENDLY - Yes *NATURAL FIBRE - Yes *PILE - High Pile *PILE HEIGHT - 0.75 Inches *BACK MATERIAL - Cotton *USAGE - Indoor *DURABLE - Yes *ANTI-SKID - Yes *Order Handling Time - 2 Business days *Washable - No *RUG PAD NEEEDED - No *ITEM CONDITION - New *REVERSIBLE - No *[WEAVE / CONSTRUCTION] Handmade by skilled artisan’s adept in the art of rug weaving, dedicating numerous hours to meticulously craft this artistic area rug to perfection. As the name resembles the hand-woven flat weave rugs are thinly woven with low pile and flat surface. Flat weave rug is woven with fabric by interlocking horizontal & vertical threads, to create a flat rug in a variety of colors & designs. These are light-weight but end up lacking the soft velvety feel often associated with rugs. *[MATERIAL] The area rug is woven using wool, renowned for its exceptional quality due to its luxurious texture, feel, and practical advantages. Wool stands out in the rug-making industry for its numerous qualities such as high durability, warmth, and rich appearance and feel. *[PATTERN] This modern area rugs with Solid design elevates the elegance of your living space and complement various home décor styles including transitional, modern, contemporary, and bohemian. *[ECO-FRIENDLY] By selecting this handmade area rug, woven with eco-friendly natural fibers and crafted without the use of harmful chemicals, you demonstrate your commitment to a healthier environment and your support for traditional craftsmanship. *[DURABLE & EASY CARE] Crafted with meticulous precision and using top-quality materials, these area rugs boast unparalleled durability, making them suitable for high-traffic areas while providing exceptional underfoot comfort. Moreover, they require minimal maintenance, needing only occasional vacuuming to keep them looking their best. *[USAGE AREA] Area rugs are versatile decor elements that can elevate the ambiance and functionality of any room in your home. From the living room to the bedroom, and even outdoor spaces, study rooms, runway, dining room and office room here's how you can make the most of area rugs throughout your home. *[SHAPE & SIZE] This Rectangle area rug is of 8'x10' size. Ensure that the rug is the appropriate size and shape for the space, considering the furniture arrangement and the room's dimensions. *[SERVICES] Free Shipping | Quick Order Dispatch | Easy Return | Accessible Customer Support - With quality product we deliver exceptional services to customers. *[BRAND] RUGSOTIC CARPETS is a name synonymous with quality area rugs, rooted in decades of manufacturing expertise. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond product quality to supporting thousands of skilled weavers and artisans. We prioritize environmental friendliness and climate sustainability in our weaving processes, while also fostering the continuous skill development of our weavers through training initiatives. From spinning and dyeing yarn with natural ingredients in our in-house units to the meticulous weaving of our area rugs, quality checks at every stage ensure the delivery of products that uphold high moral values and exceed customer expectations. *[SHIPPING]Free shipping across USA (except Puerto Rico, Alaska & Hawaii). Easy 30 days free returns. In case of damaged or wrong product delivered, the return shipment cost will be borne by us, in any other case, it will be paid by the customer. *[WEAVE DESCRIPTION]As the name resembles the hand woven flat weave rugs are thinly woven with low pile and flat surface. Flat weave rug are woven with fabric on loom by interlocking horizontal & vertical threads, to create a flat rug in a variety of colors & designs. These are rugged & very easy to clean, light-weight but end up lacking the soft velvety feel often associated with rugs. These are usually much lighter than rugs of other weave & call for a good quality rug-pad to be used underneath. *[MATERIAL DESCRIPTION]In the universe of rug-fabrics, wool is considered one of the finest, owing to the touch, feel & practical benefits of this natural wonder-fiber. Wool has many qualities that place it far ahead in the rug-making business – e.g. high durability, warmth, rich look & feel etc. Wool is a pre-eminent choice for a classy rug that can last you for decades. *[PILE DESCRIPTION]Hand woven flat weave rugs are low pile rugs which make the rugs light in weight and easy to clean. These rugs are more flexible and can be folded or rolled up easily. Despite its low pile, this rug's exceptional construction makes it suitable for high-traffic areas. *[PROPER SET UP & CARE]Flat weave rugs are thin and with no pile its doesn't sheds, for which just adequate vacuum cleaning is good enough to maintain the durability of rug. The rugs are good to be used in medium traffic area. Since the rugs are thin it can be easily used under the furniture as well. *[FLOOR PROTECTION]Though this rug will not cause damage to your flooring, you can use the rug pads on its lower surface and protect the floor from any unexpected scratch. By utilizing a rug pad, you can enhance the thickness of flat weave rugs, compensating for their thinner nature compared to other styles of woven rugs. *[CLEANING METHOD]The vacuum cleaning is the best way to get rid of dirt and dust. You may also choose the option of professional dry cleaning to make it look rejuvenating all the time.

The Alley Cat ADU serves two young professionals who live there during the warm months while renting out their primary residence. In the winter, they rent out both their primary residence and their ADU while they live abroad. The clients’ love for plants guided much of the design, including the large Catalpa tree in their yard. The ADU takes advantage of the extensive tree canopy by tucking the deck, which also serves as the 2nd level entry, underneath the branches. We paid special attention to the exterior form so that the Catalpa tree appears to envelop the ADU. Gardening is also important to the homeowners, so the ADU was carefully located on the site to maintain as much backyard space as possible. Numerous windows and skylights create a sunlit space for the homeowners’ numerous house plants. The plants, natural light, and compact size create a cozy space full of nooks to relax in. The kitchen, although compact, has a full-size refrigerator, dishwasher, and stove top. A creative touch is the picture-framed kitchen window, which is a continuation of the butcher block counter. To maximize the efficiency of the small space, their cat’s litterbox is cleverly tucked away into a cabinet with a cat-sized hole.

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours Lake Lanier Custom Homes Envision Web Nestled in the foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains and nurtured by the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers, Lake Sidney Lanier is named for the poet Sidney Clopton Lanier, whose admiration of the area's scenic beauty inspired him to compose his famous "Song of the Chattahoochee". Lake Lanier is one of America's favorite lakes. With several million visitors annually enjoying its recreational facilities, it has been the most visited Corp of Engineers project in the nation. One reason for the lake's popularity is its proximity to metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. A well-developed road network surrounds Lake Lanier, with several highways crossing the main body. Visitors can enjoy the city of Atlanta and, in the space of a short drive, can lose themselves in the tranquility at Lake Lanier. Lake Lanier, impounded by Buford Dam, encompasses 38,000 surface acres of water with 540 miles of shorelines. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has developed and operates numerous public parks around the lake for camping and day-use activities. Lake Lanier Islands, a development by the State of Georgia and the Corps of Engineers, is the major resort area on the lake. The Islands complex provides picnicking, camping, beach areas, a water theme park, tennis courts, golf courses, rental boats, and hotel accommodations. Numerous other recreation areas operated by county and city agencies also offer recreational opportunities around the lake. Lake Lanier was host to the 1996 Centennial Olympic Rowing and Sprint/Canoe/Kayak Events, as well as the 1996 Paralympic Yachting events. These honors have helped make Lanier a world class lake.

At the outset, this project began with the transformation of a 2-car attached garage. The goal was to create a mudroom, an exercise room, and a breezeway to seamlessly connect the spacious detached garage with the main part of the house. Additionally, the project involved partial roof removal and the addition of a new front entry. But then came an unexpected twist – scope creep. We found ourselves veering away from the initial client-supplied architectural plans. After numerous consultations with the clients and several iterations of the design, we arrived at a significantly improved plan for the remodel and addition. Our journey commenced with the demolition of almost the entire former 2-car garage, making space for a new, oversized 3-car garage measuring 40′ x 28′. This garage was strategically placed between the existing house and the large detached garage. We introduced a custom low-sloped flat roof, designed to address historical drainage issues. To mitigate water pooling, we created a custom concrete step at the back corner of the garage, equipped with a sturdy metal grate that sits flush with the step. We also installed a PVC drainage system, commencing at the step and running beneath a newly designed patio, ultimately draining into the yard. These measures have significantly reduced water accumulation around the house. The new garage boasts several features, including Longboard aluminum siding, custom full glass garage doors, interior drywall finished to a level 4, an abundance of can lights, an epoxy floor coating, vinyl base trim, a new forced air garage heater, and more. The clients also requested a designated space for their three kids and their friends to enjoy, thus giving birth to the “Kid Zone.” We partitioned a section of the existing oversized garage, resulting in a space measuring approximately 22′ x 32′, brimming with entertainment possibilities. To enhance control over the temperature in the Kid Zone, we collaborated with our licensed HVAC partner to install a cold weather mini-split system. One of the most significant challenges was the modernization and consolidation of the home’s main electrical systems. We reconfigured and combined 6-7 different electrical panels into just two. One panel serves the main house, while the second is dedicated to backup power from a generator. These panels, along with the boiler for the in-floor heating system, are housed in a newly constructed mechanical room within the Kid Zone. Inside the main house, we completed various tasks, such as removing the ceiling in the hallway from the new garage to address prior water damage, improve insulation, and rework electrical and HVAC systems. We also replaced the ceiling from the front door to the base of the stairs, adding new can lighting and enhancing insulation. Skilled drywall specialists then installed and finished new drywall to a level 5 standard. The exterior of the house underwent a complete overhaul. Before installing new roofing on the entire house and garage, we modified an existing flat roof by adding custom lumber and plywood to enhance the pitch, preventing future ice dams. A new rubber roof was expertly installed on the oversized 3-car garage, and the flat roof section we re-framed. Our meticulous exterior team removed old white aluminum soffit, fascia, and gutters, replacing them with new framing to accommodate Longboard soffit material. This task was particularly challenging due to the age of the house and the non-standard wall and roof framing. Our skilled exterior subcontractors ensured a perfect fit. Near the pool area, we discovered severe rot and decay from years of water intrusion. After informing the homeowners, we ordered and installed five new commercial-style block framed windows and a custom 8′ high Anderson patio door. This involved careful removal and replacement of window headers from the outside to avoid disturbing the finished part of the house. We reframed the large openings to fit the new windows, and our skilled trim carpenters installed new walnut casing, base, and window sills. In total, we replaced around 900 lineal feet of soffit and installed approximately 32 squares of aluminum siding. The entire house was meticulously prepped, repaired, and painted according to the client’s chosen color. Throughout the project, we incorporated numerous custom touches and unique design elements, some of which you can see in the pictures. Our team also addressed various unforeseen challenges, from soil issues to rot and decay repair, roof leaks, drainage problems, electrical and HVAC complexities, and much more. At Xpand Inc., we take pride in making it all happen, turning your remodeling and renovation dreams into reality.

Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties ConnecticutOutdoor LED Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut.Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut. Outdoor Lighting Designer Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut. AOLP- Association of OUTDOOR LIGHTING PROFESSIONALS. www.OutdoorLightingCt.com Outdoor Lighting Designer and two time Landscape AOLP Lighting award recipient Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut shows us here how living beyond the walls of your home outdoors at night can be NIGHT TIME FABULOUS. GO TO WWW.OUTDOORLIGHTINGCT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE. "LET ME show you JUST HOW GOOD YOUR HOUSE LOOKS AT NIGHT" Steve P. offered the following endorsement about Gotowala's Outdoor Lighting talents. Michael is clearly one of the best landscape lighting designers in the country. In my role as a photographer of outdoor lighting, I've visited and photographed many of Michael's projects - not only were the lighting designs creative and effective, they were also installed perfectly with a great attention to detail. My photos of Michael's projects have been published in numerous trade journals and design magazines. Editors are thrilled with these outstanding examples of landscape lighting. Michael has embraced both the art and science of lighting design and applies it to create compelling nighttime environments for his very lucky clients. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael for any kind of outdoor lighting product. You willed be thrilled with the results.AOLP- Association of OUTDOOR LIGHTING PROFESSIONALS. www.OutdoorLightingCt.com Outdoor Lighting Designer and two time Landscape AOLP Lighting award recipient Michael Gotowala Preferred Properties Connecticut shows us here how living beyond the walls of your home outdoors at night can be NIGHT TIME FABULOUS. GO TO WWW.OUTDOORLIGHTINGCT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE. "LET ME show you JUST HOW GOOD YOUR HOUSE LOOKS AT NIGHT" Steve P. offered the following endorsement about Gotowala's Outdoor Lighting talents. Michael is clearly one of the best landscape lighting designers in the country. In my role as a photographer of outdoor lighting, I've visited and photographed many of Michael's projects - not only were the lighting designs creative and effective, they were also installed perfectly with a great attention to detail. My photos of Michael's projects have been published in numerous trade journals and design magazines. Editors are thrilled with these outstanding examples of landscape lighting. Michael has embraced both the art and science of lighting design and applies it to create compelling nighttime environments for his very lucky clients. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael for any kind of outdoor lighting product. You willed be thrilled with the results.

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours Lake Lanier Custom Homes Envision Web Nestled in the foothills of the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains and nurtured by the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers, Lake Sidney Lanier is named for the poet Sidney Clopton Lanier, whose admiration of the area's scenic beauty inspired him to compose his famous "Song of the Chattahoochee". Lake Lanier is one of America's favorite lakes. With several million visitors annually enjoying its recreational facilities, it has been the most visited Corp of Engineers project in the nation. One reason for the lake's popularity is its proximity to metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. A well-developed road network surrounds Lake Lanier, with several highways crossing the main body. Visitors can enjoy the city of Atlanta and, in the space of a short drive, can lose themselves in the tranquility at Lake Lanier. Lake Lanier, impounded by Buford Dam, encompasses 38,000 surface acres of water with 540 miles of shorelines. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has developed and operates numerous public parks around the lake for camping and day-use activities. Lake Lanier Islands, a development by the State of Georgia and the Corps of Engineers, is the major resort area on the lake. The Islands complex provides picnicking, camping, beach areas, a water theme park, tennis courts, golf courses, rental boats, and hotel accommodations. Numerous other recreation areas operated by county and city agencies also offer recreational opportunities around the lake. Lake Lanier was host to the 1996 Centennial Olympic Rowing and Sprint/Canoe/Kayak Events, as well as the 1996 Paralympic Yachting events. These honors have helped make Lanier a world class lake.

Both the front and rear of this beautiful South Tampa home are illuminated, as well as the walkways down both sides. A feeling of security is an added bonus of a lighting system installed primarily for accent and beauty. We addressed the architectural features of the home, including adding recessed fixtures in the pavers to illuminate the entryway and second story lighting to showcase the areas over the garage. We also showcased the large oak canopies that flow over the front yard from both sides. The pool perimeter is warmly illuminated with the reflected light off the numerous andonidia palm clusters. The entire project is done in cast brass with LED illumination. Perhaps the most flattering part of this project is having the homeowner call us out numerous times to make additions and adjustments as they improve their home. It's a pleasure to work with homeowners and build long-term relationships as they add a pool or make landscaping upgrades, etc. We've received several referrals from this customer as well, the ultimate compliment.

Originally built in 1915 in the Shingle style, this house was “modernized” in the 1940’s to be a center hall colonial. The transformation resulted in several eccentricities that, when combined with the history of the house, informed our design. We have been working with the family for many years, and have been responsible for the architecture, the interior design, and selection of all furniture, finishes, artwork, lighting, antiques, etc. We have also coordinated the efforts of numerous other consultants, including the landscape architect, the well driller, the landscape lighting designer, and more. We have also designed multiple custom furniture pieces, and worked with numerous artisans and craftspeople on specific pieces for the house. Our design retains the character and detail of original house, yet works in furniture pieces and design elements that seamlessly tie together a blend of western and eastern influences. We renovated and/or created following: family room, workroom, laundry room, guest suite, home office, and wine cellar in the basement; living room, dining room, sun room with bar, family room, powder room, kitchen, and breakfast area on the first floor; master suite and three bedrooms and two bathrooms on second floor; home office, and study on third floor; and painting studio, reading room, bathroom, and 3-car garage in carriage house. The home includes a Japanese Tearoom and a Japanese Guest Suite. The project included installation of all new systems, including forced air heating and cooling, hydronic radiant heating on all floors, new plumbing and bathrooms throughout, new insulation, and a new slate roof with copper gutters and leaders. We also renovated the carriage house where we added dormers, a porch, and transformed the building into a painting studio, with views out to the new Japanese Garden.

Photography by Ken Wyner 2101 Connecticut Avenue (c.1928), an 8-story brick and limestone Beaux Arts style building with spacious apartments, is said to have been “the finest apartment house to appear in Washington between the two World Wars.” (James M. Goode, Best Addresses, 1988.) As advertised for rent in 1928, the apartments were designed “to incorporate many details that would aid the residents in establishing a home atmosphere, one possessing charm and dignity usually found only in a private house… the character and tenancy (being) assured through careful selection of guests.” Home to Senators, Ambassadors, a Vice President and a Supreme Court Justice as well as numerous Washington socialites, the building still stands as one of the undisputed “best addresses” in Washington, DC.) So well laid-out was this gracious 3,000 sf apartment that the basic floor plan remains unchanged from the original architect’s 1927 design. The organizing feature was, and continues to be, the grand “gallery” space in the center of the unit. Every room in the apartment can be accessed via the gallery, thus preserving it as the centerpiece of the “charm and dignity” which the original design intended. Programmatic modifications consisted of the addition of a small powder room off of the foyer, and the conversion of a corner “sun room” into a room for meditation and study. The apartment received a thorough updating of all systems, services and finishes, including a new kitchen and new bathrooms, several new built-in cabinetry units, and the consolidation of numerous small closets and passageways into more accessible and efficient storage spaces.

At the outset, this project began with the transformation of a 2-car attached garage. The goal was to create a mudroom, an exercise room, and a breezeway to seamlessly connect the spacious detached garage with the main part of the house. Additionally, the project involved partial roof removal and the addition of a new front entry. But then came an unexpected twist – scope creep. We found ourselves veering away from the initial client-supplied architectural plans. After numerous consultations with the clients and several iterations of the design, we arrived at a significantly improved plan for the remodel and addition. Our journey commenced with the demolition of almost the entire former 2-car garage, making space for a new, oversized 3-car garage measuring 40′ x 28′. This garage was strategically placed between the existing house and the large detached garage. We introduced a custom low-sloped flat roof, designed to address historical drainage issues. To mitigate water pooling, we created a custom concrete step at the back corner of the garage, equipped with a sturdy metal grate that sits flush with the step. We also installed a PVC drainage system, commencing at the step and running beneath a newly designed patio, ultimately draining into the yard. These measures have significantly reduced water accumulation around the house. The new garage boasts several features, including Longboard aluminum siding, custom full glass garage doors, interior drywall finished to a level 4, an abundance of can lights, an epoxy floor coating, vinyl base trim, a new forced air garage heater, and more. The clients also requested a designated space for their three kids and their friends to enjoy, thus giving birth to the “Kid Zone.” We partitioned a section of the existing oversized garage, resulting in a space measuring approximately 22′ x 32′, brimming with entertainment possibilities. To enhance control over the temperature in the Kid Zone, we collaborated with our licensed HVAC partner to install a cold weather mini-split system. One of the most significant challenges was the modernization and consolidation of the home’s main electrical systems. We reconfigured and combined 6-7 different electrical panels into just two. One panel serves the main house, while the second is dedicated to backup power from a generator. These panels, along with the boiler for the in-floor heating system, are housed in a newly constructed mechanical room within the Kid Zone. Inside the main house, we completed various tasks, such as removing the ceiling in the hallway from the new garage to address prior water damage, improve insulation, and rework electrical and HVAC systems. We also replaced the ceiling from the front door to the base of the stairs, adding new can lighting and enhancing insulation. Skilled drywall specialists then installed and finished new drywall to a level 5 standard. The exterior of the house underwent a complete overhaul. Before installing new roofing on the entire house and garage, we modified an existing flat roof by adding custom lumber and plywood to enhance the pitch, preventing future ice dams. A new rubber roof was expertly installed on the oversized 3-car garage, and the flat roof section we re-framed. Our meticulous exterior team removed old white aluminum soffit, fascia, and gutters, replacing them with new framing to accommodate Longboard soffit material. This task was particularly challenging due to the age of the house and the non-standard wall and roof framing. Our skilled exterior subcontractors ensured a perfect fit. Near the pool area, we discovered severe rot and decay from years of water intrusion. After informing the homeowners, we ordered and installed five new commercial-style block framed windows and a custom 8′ high Anderson patio door. This involved careful removal and replacement of window headers from the outside to avoid disturbing the finished part of the house. We reframed the large openings to fit the new windows, and our skilled trim carpenters installed new walnut casing, base, and window sills. In total, we replaced around 900 lineal feet of soffit and installed approximately 32 squares of aluminum siding. The entire house was meticulously prepped, repaired, and painted according to the client’s chosen color. Throughout the project, we incorporated numerous custom touches and unique design elements, some of which you can see in the pictures. Our team also addressed various unforeseen challenges, from soil issues to rot and decay repair, roof leaks, drainage problems, electrical and HVAC complexities, and much more. At Xpand Inc., we take pride in making it all happen, turning your remodeling and renovation dreams into reality.