This home addition was intended to expand the home to provide the space needed for the growing new family. The existing kitchen was gutted, expanded and opened up to a family room and nook area. Custom inset cabinets were our preference; however cost was a significant concern. The owner researched multiple companies and standard product lines to save on her budget. After careful analysis, we discovered that it was just as cost effective to use the local custom cabinet maker we preferred. This allowed for more precise detailing and unique features. The goal of a classical farm house kitchen character updated with modern features was able to be obtained much to the home owner's delight. A family room was added to this home, opening up to a screen porch that takes advantage of a previously unused side yard. The much needed new rear entry provides the family a space for their laundry room and is now the primary entry point from the detached garage. Great care was taken to ensure that the home’s new detailing could have been built this way originally. The space however needed to have a modern function for a modern family. The homes existing exterior had aluminum siding and trim which concealed original millwork and shingles. When the nondescript materials were removed, it was discovered that the original was in poor condition. Careful attention was taken to replace and/or repair original materials wherever possible around the entire home, in order to create a seamless exterior character.

This project was completed for a client who recently moved from a California mansion to a Georgia penthouse in order to be closer to family. It was a huge down size so it was important for our design team to help obtain that same grand appeal that the client was accustomed to, within a significantly smaller home. We created an open space plan that would allow for entertaining many guests at once. With proper scale in consideration, we chose to use large furniture that would make up the living room and dining space to reinforce that grand effect. Lending to this concept we hung drapery higher than the window frames and a bold ceiling fixture in order to compliment the height of the ceiling. Along with these accommodations we utilized the clients existing collection of eclectic wall art to fill the bare walls. In the end we were able to create a space that did not feel foreign to our client, but rather like home.

Photo by Barbara Wilson Landscape Architect, LLC A small residential, seaside property located on Fairfield Beach, Fairfield was renovated by the new owners and adapted for their active family. Barbara was the landscape architect in charge of all of the landscape elements upgrades. She designed new bluestone curving paths to access the front and side doors and designed new landscape lighting to enhance the walks. The existing trees were saved and she designed new shade and salt-tolerant plantings which were added to provide seasonal color and interest while respecting the existing plantings. Along the beach front additional native beach grasses were added to stabilize the dunes while removing some invasive plantings. This work will be phased over the next few years in an effort to keep the sand stable. Beach roses were incorporated into a hollow in the dunes. A small lawn area was renovated and the surrounding Black Pines pruned to provide a small play area and respite from the sun. Beautiful reblooming hydrangeas line the edge of the gravel driveway. Rounded beach stones were used instead of mulch in the island planting along the edge of the adjacent road planted with Miscanthus, Mugo pine and yucca. Barbara designed a custom kayak rack, custom garbage enclosure, a new layout of the existing wooden deck to facilitate access to the side doors, and detailed how to renovate the front door into only an emergency access with new railings and steps. She coordinating obtaining bids and then supervised the installation of all elements for the new landscape the project. The interiors were designed by Jack Montgomery Design of Greenwich, CT and NYC . Tree work was completed by Bartlett Tree Experts. Freddy’s Landscape Company of Fairfield, CT installed the new plantings, installed all the new masonry work and provides landscape maintenance services. JT Low Voltage and Electric installed the landscape lighting.

It was a mutual love of Italy, specifically the Tuscan countryside, that inspired renowned architect Mark Scheurer and his wife, Jane, to build their dream home in a simplistic, but elegant style reminiscent of a centuries old Italian farmhouse. Scheurer’s aim was to bring light, air, and an indoor/outdoor feeling into the home while preserving privacy throughout this rustic Southern California home, all of which was achieved a lot in part due to the implementation of Eldorado Stone. The use of stone was a predominant element throughout the design. Scheurer used 2,800 square feet of a custom blend of Eldorado’s Veneto Fieldledge and Hillstone profiles, both of which were applied with an overgrout technique, creating a sense of ageless authenticity and textural beauty. Another 500 square feet was used in the interior to create a dramatic focal point of exposed stone in the living room and boast large, arching windows that open up the living room and filter in light. Upstairs, the master bedroom continues the home’s rustic Italian design with exposed stone walls that reach to the beamed ceiling above. Although Scheurer is in a neighborhood that request for real products to be used in home construction, he had no problem obtaining approval to use Eldorado Stone, which speaks volumes about Eldorado’s beauty and believability. No one doubted the authenticity of the product. In fact, Scheurer believes that Eldorado is even better than natural stone in that the color palette is easily controlled as well as consistent. Eldorado Stone Profile Featured: Veneto Fieldledge and Custom Hillstone with an overgrout technique Architect: Scheurer Architects, Newport Beach, CA Website: www.msa-arch.com Builder: RS Construction Company, Corona del Mar, CA

A steeply sloping property in the Franklin Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles is the site for this 200 square foot writer’s studio, labeled the “Black Box” for its minimal geometry and dark stained cladding. Floating above an existing residence and capturing a panoramic view of Griffith Park and its famed Observatory, the Black Box serves as the office for a technology author and columnist. Entry to the structure is obtained by ascending the hillside stairs and passing below the tree canopy enveloping the studio. A custom fabricated steel fenestration system opens to the entry platform though a pair of telescoping doors. The assembly turns the corner and terminates in a picture window, directing the occupant to the expansive views. The position of the studio and the arrival sequence creates the desired separation between home life and work life. Brian Thomas Jones

Custom built in refrigerator and island
Example of a transitional galley dark wood floor eat-in kitchen design with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, concrete countertops, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

My garden gate and Japanese maple, mid-November. Photo by Jay Sifford
Inspiration for an asian landscaping in Charlotte.

In this San Bruno ADU construction project, we worked closely with you from start to finish, ensuring an efficient construction. From obtaining permits to finalizing design details, we handled each step with care. Our team transformed this space with a modern, open layout tailored for both style and functionality. As experienced San Bruno ADU design and build experts, we focused on quality construction, integrating durable materials and efficient solutions to maximize space. The result? It's a beautifully done ADU that feels like home. San Bruno ADU Builders - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/locations/san-bruno/ San Bruno ADU Floor Plan - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/adu-floor-plans/san-bruno/2-bed-2-bath/ San Bruno ADU Regulations - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/adu-regulations/san-bruno/ ADU Project in San Bruno - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/projects/san-bruno/toledo-family-adu/

The bungalow-style home is typically designed to give a sense of tranquility and functionality to everyone in the neighborhood and for all ages and lifestyles since it can be obtained on flat or sloping land. This house can be built on a single level or in-depth for multiple families. This three-story unique home plan consists of several indoor areas that will delight individuals of all ages. As a buffer to entering the house, a covered entrance porch is available. The elaborate formal living area includes a fireplace at the head of a formal dining room and a modern kitchen. The magnificent master bedroom features a master bath with a double vanity sink, shower, bathtub, dressing closet, and other amenities. A guest room, study room, mudroom, laundry, shared bathroom, back covered porch, and two separate garages, one for three-bay garages and the other for single-car bays, are all included on the first-floor plan. The furnished media room is provided with a storage room on the upper-level layout. Two classy bedrooms with a jack & jill bathroom, a recreational room, a billiard room with a stylish wet bar, a gaming room, storage space, and a laundry room are available on the low floor of the house. This charming four-bedroom home plan has a beneficial and pleasant style based on the concept of elegance.

In this San Bruno ADU construction project, we worked closely with you from start to finish, ensuring an efficient construction. From obtaining permits to finalizing design details, we handled each step with care. Our team transformed this space with a modern, open layout tailored for both style and functionality. As experienced San Bruno ADU design and build experts, we focused on quality construction, integrating durable materials and efficient solutions to maximize space. The result? It's a beautifully done ADU that feels like home. San Bruno ADU Builders - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/locations/san-bruno/ San Bruno ADU Floor Plan - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/adu-floor-plans/san-bruno/2-bed-2-bath/ San Bruno ADU Regulations - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/adu-regulations/san-bruno/ ADU Project in San Bruno - https://www.aduspecialistbayarea.com/projects/san-bruno/toledo-family-adu/

The apartment had not been touched since its construction 30 years prior and was in dire need of an complete renovation. The owners’ main goal was to convert the once crowded space to an open plan, filled with light. The solution lay in a different layout. Changing the previous configuration of bedrooms along the window wall which resulted in very little sunlight reaching the public spaces. Breaking the norm of the traditional building layout, the bedrooms were moved to the back of the unit, while the living room and kitchen were moved towards the new large facing windows in the front, resulting in a flood of natural sunlight. Grey flooring was applied throughout the apartment to maximize light infiltration, the use of natural materials and blue accents were used to obtain a serene and calming atmosphere.

Melanie's inspiration for this luxurious room was an artfully crafted Tresserra Bolero pool table that was built for recreation with incredible style and function, exemplifying the sophisticated and sporty Hampton resident. Our firm created a glamorous entertainment space where family and friends can get away and spend time together playing backgammon, chess, billiards and even a simple game of tic tac toe. A Guy Stanley Monopoly board painting greets you as you enter the room, a nod to the past. We used grass cloth wallpaper to create warmth, intimacy and texture, bringing a bit of nature into the space. The deep velvet custom sofa sits in front of a custom mirrored media cabinet, which sits below a large TV. The cabinet and TV are flanked by Carl Springer stools from Todd Merrill with glamorous Bakalowitz inspired sconces above. The Arteriors Indogene chandelier illuminates the metallic hand painted ceiling, which we designed to resemble the star filled Hamptons sky. A Jane Martin diptique ties in the room's color palette and is complemented by the whimsical sculptures that stand on either side. One ironically named "Road Runner" is also a reference to the past. A yellow lollipop sculpture by Desirez Obtain Cherish sits adjacent to an art-inspired fireplace. Melanie Roy Design created a modern, high style recreation space for family and friends to relax and spend time together in an elegant, comfortable space that complements the chic Hamptons lifestyle, showing that family fun can be stylish whether in the country or the city. Photo by Anastassio Mentis.

The apartment had not been touched since its construction 30 years prior and was in dire need of an complete renovation. The owners’ main goal was to convert the once crowded space to an open plan, filled with light. The solution lay in a different layout. Changing the previous configuration of bedrooms along the window wall which resulted in very little sunlight reaching the public spaces. Breaking the norm of the traditional building layout, the bedrooms were moved to the back of the unit, while the living room and kitchen were moved towards the new large facing windows in the front, resulting in a flood of natural sunlight. Grey flooring was applied throughout the apartment to maximize light infiltration, the use of natural materials and blue accents were used to obtain a serene and calming atmosphere.

The apartment had not been touched since its construction 30 years prior and was in dire need of an complete renovation. The owners’ main goal was to convert the once crowded space to an open plan, filled with light. The solution lay in a different layout. Changing the previous configuration of bedrooms along the window wall which resulted in very little sunlight reaching the public spaces. Breaking the norm of the traditional building layout, the bedrooms were moved to the back of the unit, while the living room and kitchen were moved towards the new large facing windows in the front, resulting in a flood of natural sunlight. Grey flooring was applied throughout the apartment to maximize light infiltration, the use of natural materials and blue accents were used to obtain a serene and calming atmosphere.

The owners of this contemporary home wanted a sleek and stylish space that was practical for their everyday lifestyle. By installing White Macaubas honed quartzite countertops, they were able to obtain the look of white marble without its porous qualities and maintenance. The island with its box miter edge detail and waterfall sides is truly the focal point of this kitchen. Their shimmering glass tile backsplash and stainless steel farmhouse sink add to the updated modern design. We partnered with the following professionals on this project: Nuss Construction Company Inc. The McMullin Design Group, LLC

Complete overhaul of the common area in this wonderful Arcadia home. The living room, dining room and kitchen were redone. The direction was to obtain a contemporary look but to preserve the warmth of a ranch home. The perfect combination of modern colors such as grays and whites blend and work perfectly together with the abundant amount of wood tones in this design. The open kitchen is separated from the dining area with a large 10' peninsula with a waterfall finish detail. Notice the 3 different cabinet colors, the white of the upper cabinets, the Ash gray for the base cabinets and the magnificent olive of the peninsula are proof that you don't have to be afraid of using more than 1 color in your kitchen cabinets. The kitchen layout includes a secondary sink and a secondary dishwasher! For the busy life style of a modern family. The fireplace was completely redone with classic materials but in a contemporary layout. Notice the porcelain slab material on the hearth of the fireplace, the subway tile layout is a modern aligned pattern and the comfortable sitting nook on the side facing the large windows so you can enjoy a good book with a bright view. The bamboo flooring is continues throughout the house for a combining effect, tying together all the different spaces of the house. All the finish details and hardware are honed gold finish, gold tones compliment the wooden materials perfectly.

Shakertown Craftsman Shingle Panel siding. Natural cedar stained with a bleaching oil.
Beach style gray two-story wood and shingle exterior home photo in Seattle

The apartment had not been touched since its construction 30 years prior and was in dire need of an complete renovation. The owners’ main goal was to convert the once crowded space to an open plan, filled with light. The solution lay in a different layout. Changing the previous configuration of bedrooms along the window wall which resulted in very little sunlight reaching the public spaces. Breaking the norm of the traditional building layout, the bedrooms were moved to the back of the unit, while the living room and kitchen were moved towards the new large facing windows in the front, resulting in a flood of natural sunlight. Grey flooring was applied throughout the apartment to maximize light infiltration, the use of natural materials and blue accents were used to obtain a serene and calming atmosphere.

The apartment had not been touched since its construction 30 years prior and was in dire need of an complete renovation. The owners’ main goal was to convert the once crowded space to an open plan, filled with light. The solution lay in a different layout. Changing the previous configuration of bedrooms along the window wall which resulted in very little sunlight reaching the public spaces. Breaking the norm of the traditional building layout, the bedrooms were moved to the back of the unit, while the living room and kitchen were moved towards the new large facing windows in the front, resulting in a flood of natural sunlight. Grey flooring was applied throughout the apartment to maximize light infiltration, the use of natural materials and blue accents were used to obtain a serene and calming atmosphere.