Combine ancient temples with overwater villas for the trip of a lifetime There's a reason savvy travellers are increasingly looking beyond single-destination holidays. The Sri Lanka Maldives multi-centre trip has emerged as one of the most sought-after combinations in tropical travel—and it's easy to understand why. These two Indian Ocean neighbours couldn't be more different, yet together they create a holiday experience that satisfies every type of wanderlust. Why Combine Sri Lanka and the Maldives? Sri Lanka offers what the Maldives doesn't: lush highlands carpeted in tea plantations, ancient cities steeped in 2,500 years of history, wildlife safaris where leopards roam free, and a culinary scene that'll have you dreaming of hoppers and kottu for years to come. The Maldives, meanwhile, delivers what Sri Lanka can't: those iconic overwater bungalows, some of the planet's most pristine coral reefs, and the kind of barefoot luxury where your biggest decision is whether to have your massage on the beach or in your private villa. A Sri Lanka and Maldives twin centre holiday lets you experience the thrill of exploration followed by pure, unadulterated relaxation. It's the best of both worlds—literally. The Perfect Itinerary Balance Most travellers find that spending 7-10 days in Sri Lanka followed by 4-7 days in the Maldives creates the ideal rhythm. Sri Lanka demands more time because there's simply so much ground to cover. You might start in Colombo, travel through the Cultural Triangle to explore Sigiriya's ancient rock fortress and Dambulla's cave temples, wind through the tea country around Ella, and perhaps end with a safari in Yala National Park before catching your flight to Malé. Then comes the reward: touching down in the Maldives, boarding a speedboat or seaplane, and watching the stress of everyday life disappear as those famous turquoise lagoons come into view. After days of early morning temple visits and winding mountain roads, there's nothing quite like sinking into a lounger with nothing on the agenda but deciding which shade of blue you're looking at. Logistics Made Simple One of the best aspects of this combination is how geographically convenient it is. Colombo and Malé are just over an hour apart by air, with multiple daily flights connecting the two capitals. This proximity means minimal travel fatigue and maximum time enjoying your destinations.Find More here https://holiday.com.mv/sri-lanka-and-maldives-twin-centre-holidays/ For those considering expanding their Indian Ocean adventure even further, Maldives multi-centre holidays open up possibilities beyond Sri Lanka. Dubai, Singapore, and various Indian cities all serve as excellent add-on destinations, turning an already incredible trip into a true odyssey. Planning Considerations for 2026 Timing matters with this combination. The Maldives enjoys fairly consistent weather year-round, but Sri Lanka has two distinct monsoon seasons affecting different coasts at different times. Generally speaking, December through April works beautifully for both destinations, making it the peak season for this twin-centre route. Budget-wise, expect Sri Lanka to be significantly more affordable than the Maldives. Many travellers use this to their advantage, opting for boutique hotels and authentic local experiences in Sri Lanka, then splurging on a premium resort for their Maldives finale. It's a strategy that delivers exceptional value without sacrificing that once-in-a-lifetime overwater villa experience. The Verdict A Sri Lanka Maldives multi-centre holiday isn't just about ticking two countries off a list. It's about crafting a journey with genuine contrast and emotional arc—adventure followed by serenity, cultural immersion followed by indulgent escape. For couples, honeymooners, families, and solo travellers alike, this combination consistently ranks among the most satisfying itineraries the Indian Ocean has to offer. If you've been dreaming of ancient ruins at sunrise and sunset cocktails on a private deck over crystalline waters, this might just be your year to make it happen. Ready to start planning your twin-centre adventure? Work with specialists who know both destinations intimately to create an itinerary that matches your travel style and budget.Find More here https://holiday.com.mv/maldives-multi-centre-holidays/

It’s been said that when you dream about a house, the basement represents your subconscious level. Perhaps that was true in the past, when basements were often neglected. But in most of today’s new builds and remodels, lower levels are becoming valuable living spaces. If you’re looking at building or renovating, opening up that lower level with sufficient light can add square footage and value to your home. In addition, having access to bright indoor areas can help combat cabin fever, which peaks in late winter. Looking at the photos here, you’d never know what you’re seeing is a lower level. That’s because a smart builder knew that bringing natural light into the space was key. Our job, in furnishing the space, was to make the most of that light. The off-white walls and light grey carpet provide a good base. A grey sectional sofa with clean, modern lines easily fits into the spacious room. It’s an ideal piece to encourage people to spend time together. The strong, forgiving linen resists staining, and like a blank canvas this true neutral allows for accessorizing with various throws and pillows depending on the season. The cream-colored throw echoes the light colors in the space, while the nubby pillow adds a textured contrast.

A contemporary Polynesian hut: that was the idea our clients brought us when they asked Charles Rose Architects to do a second project on their expansive property on the Charles River, southwest of Boston. All agreed that the new pool house should be wood construction—in part, to create a similar look and feel to the first project we designed there, a “play barn” with two large rooms, separated by an outdoor space that frames views of an adjacent pond. Our clients had won approval from a local conservation commission for a rectangular structure. We started by carving out a corner, creating a spacious covered outdoor sitting area. The heavy timber frame supports a modified gabled roof; the peak is pulled off-center so that the pool house subtly connects with the geometry of the play barn. Red cedar was used throughout, creating rich, warm hues from exposed beams, custom doors and millwork. Photo Credit: John Linden

It’s been said that when you dream about a house, the basement represents your subconscious level. Perhaps that was true in the past, when basements were often neglected. But in most of today’s new builds and remodels, lower levels are becoming valuable living spaces. If you’re looking at building or renovating, opening up that lower level with sufficient light can add square footage and value to your home. In addition, having access to bright indoor areas can help combat cabin fever, which peaks in late winter. Looking at the photos here, you’d never know what you’re seeing is a lower level. That’s because a smart builder knew that bringing natural light into the space was key. Our job, in furnishing the space, was to make the most of that light. The off-white walls and light grey carpet provide a good base. A grey sectional sofa with clean, modern lines easily fits into the spacious room. It’s an ideal piece to encourage people to spend time together. The strong, forgiving linen resists staining, and like a blank canvas this true neutral allows for accessorizing with various throws and pillows depending on the season. The cream-colored throw echoes the light colors in the space, while the nubby pillow adds a textured contrast.

A peak at the bar off of the master bathroom.
Home bar - mid-sized traditional home bar idea in San Francisco

Nimanoe is a tribute to the good life. A tale about travel, taste, passion and purpose. You can see it in the beautiful, expansive ensuite bedrooms, and the cozy, pacifying lounges and library. You can feel it in the refined furnishings, the statement pieces of art and considered spa-like spaces that beckon you in for a soothing reboot. You can hear it in the Sonos surround sound system that reaches every room, every corner of the garden, into the mountain air and beyond. You can taste it in the state-of-the-art kitchen and languid dining spaces – both indoor and outdoor. Nimanoe’s sophistication on the senses gives you license to bring your own version of the good life to fruition, surrounded by all of your favourite people. What we love! The outdoor shower adjacent the spa and sauna space, where the delicious monsters and ferns perfect the tropical paradise ambience. Nimanoe is an ideal home to work from too. With those inspirational views and tranquil sounds of the abounding nature you’ll find yourself inspired to produce that long-awaited masterpiece in the secluded office. The views of the ocean, Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point Vineyards and surrounding mountain ranges are nothing short of spectacular and ever-changing throughout the day. What you need to know… Nimanoe offers daily housekeeping, as well as the food of fabulous chef, Natalie, who’ll whip up some delicious Ottolenghi dishes, and extraordinary desserts. Silvermine’s hiking trails are on the doorstep. Just a gentle climb up into the mountain for some incredible views and lovely sunset spots. For a pint or two of a delicious craft beer, Aegir Brewery is no more than a 5-minute drive away, where the fabulous Italian eatery, Limoncello also sits, beneath the milkwoods. The property is situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac and is totally secure, with a high-tech, top of the range alarm and security system – for that extra peace of mind. It also runs off a solar-system so does not feel the impact of power outages. Nimanoe is only a 5-minute drive to Noordehoek for long walks and swims. You also have the use of the property’s SUP and surf boards. Noordhoek Village is only a 5-minute drive away from the property where Chef Franck Dangereux’s Foodbarn Restaurant is, together with coffee roasters, decadent ice-cream makers, a pub and a playground, a delicatessen, souvenir shops and a yoga studio too.

A bulky butcher block island was removed to increase workflow in the kitchen. The off-white cabinets and dark granite countertops were replaced with custom white stacked cabinets in a Dempsey shaker door style and Cambria quartz Berwyn countertops that were inspired by the peaks and ridges of a rugged mountain range. Paired beautifully with the quartz countertops was a full-height shimmering gray subway tile backsplash. New stainless and black appliances from GE and Sharp coordinated nicely with the elegant cabinet pulls and a gooseneck faucet that was positioned proudly over a Vigo 30” single basin sink. Brushed nickel lighting fixtures complete the look. Progressive repainted the kitchen and the rest of the common areas in a creamy white (Sherwin Williams #7012) on both the walls and the ceilings. The new 6″ Chale Miele Wood Plank Porcelain flooring was installed throughout the house to seamlessly blend the living spaces together.

The family room was given added architectural detail through the addition of a complex pattern of moulding, incorporating panels of varying sizes and corner details. The original placement of the sectional sofa against the L-shaped adjoining walls made the room look off-kilter and left one wondering what to do about the space near the fireplace. Placing a console table along the short wall allowed us to move the sofa further into the room. We then designed the panelling to focus on the centre of the wall rather than its length, and then centred the sofa and wall decor on it. This lends a pleasing symmetry to the space, emphasized by the pair of candle sconces and end tables. Walls were repainted a darker tone, adding warmth and depth to the room. A large area rug anchors the sectional sofa and unifies the seating arrangement.

Captivated by South Haven’s natural charm and waterfront beauty, this storybook, waterfront abode is exceptionally true to its lakefront character. Featuring over 3,600 square feet with five bedroom and three-and-a-half baths, the careful design of this open and charming layout paired with grand views from nearly every room, capture all the warmth and playfulness of lakefront living. • A beach friendly fiber cement siding in a cheerful shade of blue blends seamlessly with the water backdrop, while contrasting white trim and darker blue window clad lend definition to the exterior. • An impressive kitchen with stunning Ann Sachs tile backsplash, quartz countertops, richly stained bistro table and Viking Appliances overlook the generous, but clearly defined, living and dining rooms. • Extensive built-ins with extra storage and workspace, such as a distinctive dining serving piece featuring quartz stone and a lake reflecting mirror, maximize space and make entertaining a breeze. • Playful design elements like Thibaut wallpaper, braided hemp cabinet insets and white-washed European white oak floors complement the home’s coastal flair with nautical décor and warm hues. • Fine finishes and rich trim details including wainscot, various painted ceilings, louvered doors on cabinetry, and fireplace surround with kitchen coordinating quartz stone, show off the intricate design gestures. • Skillfully designed upstairs presents a restful master retreat with private balcony, two guest bedrooms, convenient laundry featuring sleek retractable doors and space maximizing built in bunk beds with ultra-clever steps that provide storage. • The lower level’s extra guest quarters, additional laundry, full beach bath with top-to-bottom tiled shower, diligent kitchenette, beach-friendly stained concrete floors, outdoor shower that keeps sand at bay, and direct access to the sugary sands of Lake Michigan. Photography by Chuck Heiney

The River Bluff Beauty is one of our favorite remodels from 2024 as this is a space that stayed with in the original footprint yet was a very dramatic change from before to after. Its always a good lesson to remember how the right design along with color, a mixture of materials, and creativity can amply elevate a space with out a major addition or structural changes. A number one ask of the homeowner: no white painted cabinets!! So we proposed a more moody theme and used a unique palette of finishes with Dusk Stain over walnut in a thin shaker door, complimented with natural walnut accents & warm walnut interiors. Dusk is an artisan finish in an opaque stain creating a rich gray tone, with underlying warmth of the wood peaking through. We used natural quartzite counter tops in a soft matte finish for both counters and the full height backsplash, creating a clean flow there helped the space seem more connected and less busy to the eye. A special feature just off the kitchen was a small wine bar and liquor storage cabinet wrapped in walnut waterfall counters, what once was a lose furniture piece now is a beautiful and coordinated extension of the room. Another gorgeous detail was the remodeling of the two-sided fireplace area, this was a fairly major change that did open up the view between kitchen dining and living as well as the view of their great wooded property. We worked with a furniture maker to create a one of a kind modern wood surround made of white oak and walnut and paired with a pressed somewhat rustic concrete that has a blend of gray and taupe’s to blend with the rest of the new color scheme.

For our client, who had previous experience working with architects, we enlarged, completely gutted and remodeled this Twin Peaks diamond in the rough. The top floor had a rear-sloping ceiling that cut off the amazing view, so our first task was to raise the roof so the great room had a uniformly high ceiling. Clerestory windows bring in light from all directions. In addition, we removed walls, combined rooms, and installed floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall sliding doors in sleek black aluminum at each floor to create generous rooms with expansive views. At the basement, we created a full-floor art studio flooded with light and with an en-suite bathroom for the artist-owner. New exterior decks, stairs and glass railings create outdoor living opportunities at three of the four levels. We designed modern open-riser stairs with glass railings to replace the existing cramped interior stairs. The kitchen features a 16 foot long island which also functions as a dining table. We designed a custom wall-to-wall bookcase in the family room as well as three sleek tiled fireplaces with integrated bookcases. The bathrooms are entirely new and feature floating vanities and a modern freestanding tub in the master. Clean detailing and luxurious, contemporary finishes complete the look.

Peak Photography
Example of a mid-sized trendy l-shaped porcelain tile wet bar design in Los Angeles with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, granite countertops and stone slab backsplash

Our clients wanted to open up the wall between their kitchen and living areas to improve flow and continuity and they wanted to add a large island. They felt that although there were windows in both the kitchen and living area, it was still somewhat dark, so they wanted to brighten it up. There was a built-in wet bar in the corner of the family room that really wasn’t used much and they felt it was just wasted space. Their overall taste was clean, simple lines, white cabinets but still with a touch of style. They definitely wanted to lose all the gray cabinets and busy hardware. We demoed all kitchen cabinets, countertops and light fixtures in the kitchen and wet bar area. All flooring in the kitchen and throughout main common areas was also removed. Waypoint Shaker Door style cabinets were installed with Leyton satin nickel hardware. The cabinets along the wall were painted linen and java on the island for a cool contrast. Beautiful Vicostone Misterio countertops were installed. Shadow glass subway tile was installed as the backsplash with a Susan Joblon Silver White and Grey Metallic Glass accent tile behind the cooktop. A large single basin undermount stainless steel sink was installed in the island with a Genta Spot kitchen faucet. The single light over the kitchen table was Seagull Lighting “Nance” and the two hanging over the island are Kuzco Lighting Vanier LED Pendants. We removed the wet bar in the family room and added two large windows, creating a wall of windows to the backyard. This definitely helped bring more light in and open up the view to the pool. In addition to tearing out the wet bar and removing the wall between the kitchen, the fireplace was upgraded with an asymmetrical mantel finished in a modern Irving Park Gray 12x24” tile. To finish it all off and tie all the common areas together and really make it flow, the clients chose a 5” wide Java bamboo flooring. Our clients love their new spaces and the improved flow, efficiency and functionality of the kitchen and adjacent living spaces.

The new kitchen included JSI Essex Castle Grey solid wood cabinets with soft close doors and drawers with Brushed Nickel hardware. We installed a back splash in Silverton Glass in the color Smoke and raven color grout. We also finished the outside edges in Antracite Schluter edging. The countertops in the Kitchen, Bar and Island are Misterio Polished-Pental Quartz. The dining room countertop is Eternal Serena Quartz Silestone. The Kitchen Sink is a Kraus Kore Workstation with a 33" Apron Front 16 Gauge Stainless Sink Single Bowl with a Moen Align pre-rinse spring pulldown kitchen faucet stainless steel. Bar Faucet- Moen Align 1.5 GPM Single Hole Pull Down Bar Faucet with Reflex and Duralast Technology. Bar Sink - Kraus Kore Workstation 17" Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl. Island Sink- Kraus Kore Workstation 23" Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl with a Moen Align Pull-Down Spray faucet. We also added Insinkerator Digital Instant Hot Water Tank and Filtration System. Installed two InSinkErator ESSENTIAL XTR N/A Evolution 3/4 HP Single Phase Garbage Disposals with SoundSeal and MultiGrind Technology. For the Kitchen lighting we installed BELDI 1933-H Peak Ceiling Pendant Fixtures with consisted of four lights over island, one over sink. and in the dining Room we installed 4 ea. Classic Brushed Dark Gray Modern Lantern Drum Mini Coastal Pendant Light LED Compatible. For the flooring in the Kitchen, Dining room, Entrance way and Bathroom we installed Floor Source Savoia; Woodland Series; Black; 6"x39" Glazed porcelain wood look tile with Charcoal gray grout. Included in this project we renovated a Bathroom and laundry station off the kitchen. The Bathroom has JSI Essex Castle Grey solid wood construction with soft close doors and drawers. The countertop is Enchanted Rock Quartz. For the lighting we installed 2 Kovacs Alecia's Tears Single Light 32" Wide Integrated LED Bathroom Vanity Light with Frosted Glass. Vanity sink is Badeloft Undermount ramp sink with a Doux Chrome Two-Handle High Arc Faucet by Moen. We finished the bathroom with 3 frameless Gatco mirrors.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Santa Barbara New American Tradition in Akron, Ohio, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elements. It is no wonder the Santa Barbara floor plan is a homeowner favorite, engineered with an open-concept layout that naturally brings the family together. The main living zone features a dramatic flat-peak cathedral ceiling stretching across both the great room and kitchen, adding an incredibly spacious, light-filled, and airy volume to the home's core. Designed for culinary efficiency, the kitchen boasts a massive walk-in pantry with a window, flooding the storage space with natural light so checking inventory before making a grocery list is completely effortless. Just off the main living area, an adaptive flex room is open to your interpretation—easily functioning as a sophisticated formal dining room, private flexible home office, music room, or children's playroom depending on your lifestyle needs. The thoughtful architecture acts as a private sanctuary when it is time to unwind, showcasing a secluded owner's retreat that shines with premium interior lighting and its own elegant cathedral ceilings. Prioritizing ultimate convenience and daily flow, the suite features a highly innovative layout hack: a direct laundry room pass-through door connecting the main laundry room straight into the owner's expansive walk-in closet. Completing this primary oasis, the deluxe owner's bath is beautifully appointed with a custom tile shower and dual vanities, creating a spa-like, get-away-from-it-all retreat right at home.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Santa Barbara New American Tradition in Akron, Ohio, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elements. It is no wonder the Santa Barbara floor plan is a homeowner favorite, engineered with an open-concept layout that naturally brings the family together. The main living zone features a dramatic flat-peak cathedral ceiling stretching across both the great room and kitchen, adding an incredibly spacious, light-filled, and airy volume to the home's core. Designed for culinary efficiency, the kitchen boasts a massive walk-in pantry with a window, flooding the storage space with natural light so checking inventory before making a grocery list is completely effortless. Just off the main living area, an adaptive flex room is open to your interpretation—easily functioning as a sophisticated formal dining room, private flexible home office, music room, or children's playroom depending on your lifestyle needs. The thoughtful architecture acts as a private sanctuary when it is time to unwind, showcasing a secluded owner's retreat that shines with premium interior lighting and its own elegant cathedral ceilings. Prioritizing ultimate convenience and daily flow, the suite features a highly innovative layout hack: a direct laundry room pass-through door connecting the main laundry room straight into the owner's expansive walk-in closet. Completing this primary oasis, the deluxe owner's bath is beautifully appointed with a custom tile shower and dual vanities, creating a spa-like, get-away-from-it-all retreat right at home.

Desirable family features converge here in well-planned living space. Front and rear covered porches are nestled under peaked-roof detailing. Inside, what's not to love? An open concept living room / dining room / kitchen ensures that no one is left out. A two-sided fireplace adds warmth and elegance to dining and living areas while also providing visual separation. A home office or flex room, laundry and half bath round off the main floor features. Retire upstairs to the master retreat complete with walk-in closet and 5-piece luxury bathroom. Two secondary bedrooms benefit from a second bathroom and the hall at the top of the stairs is ample enough for a seating or computer nook.

Franklin Lakes NJ. Outdoor Great room with covered structure. A granite topped wet bar under the tv on the mahogany paneled wall. This fantastic room with a tigerwood cieling and Ipe columns has two built in heaters in the cieling to take the chill off while watching football on a crisp fall afternoon or dining at night. In the first picture you can see the gas fire feature built into the round circular bluestone area of the deck. A perfect gathering place under the stars. This is so much more than a deck it is year round outdoor living.

It’s been said that when you dream about a house, the basement represents your subconscious level. Perhaps that was true in the past, when basements were often neglected. But in most of today’s new builds and remodels, lower levels are becoming valuable living spaces. If you’re looking at building or renovating, opening up that lower level with sufficient light can add square footage and value to your home. In addition, having access to bright indoor areas can help combat cabin fever, which peaks in late winter. Looking at the photos here, you’d never know what you’re seeing is a lower level. That’s because a smart builder knew that bringing natural light into the space was key. Our job, in furnishing the space, was to make the most of that light. The off-white walls and light grey carpet provide a good base. A grey sectional sofa with clean, modern lines easily fits into the spacious room. It’s an ideal piece to encourage people to spend time together. The strong, forgiving linen resists staining, and like a blank canvas this true neutral allows for accessorizing with various throws and pillows depending on the season. The cream-colored throw echoes the light colors in the space, while the nubby pillow adds a textured contrast.