Evergreen completed this elegant kitchen renovation in Carmel Valley, starting with comprehensive demolition and electrical upgrades to support modern appliance requirements. We installed dedicated circuits for the professional-grade gas range, built-in microwave, and side-by-side refrigerator, ensuring all connections meet current California electrical codes and energy efficiency standards. Plumbing reconfiguration centered the island sink for optimal workflow, with new supply lines and properly vented drainage systems. The pot filler faucet installation above the range required additional water line routing through the wall with shutoff valves for safety and maintenance access. Custom shaker-style cabinetry was installed with precision leveling and European-style hinges featuring soft-close mechanisms throughout. The open shelving units required secure wall mounting with concealed brackets, engineered to support dishware weight while maintaining the floating aesthetic. Full-height cabinets maximize vertical storage and create visual height in the space. Quartz countertops were templated on-site for perfect fit, with clean mitered edges and seamless integration around the cooktop cutout. The classic white subway tile backsplash extends to the ceiling, installed with consistent grout lines and careful cuts around electrical outlets and the pot filler fixture. The total white creates a fresh, luminous atmosphere enhanced by brushed gold hardware and fixtures that add warmth and sophistication. Three glass globe pendant lights with brass accents provide both task lighting and visual interest above the island. Wide-plank oak flooring grounds the bright space with natural texture, while the connection to the outdoor deck visible through the glass doors embodies the indoor-outdoor flow of Carmel Valley living.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

The Legendary Rockstar Pool Build — A Backyard Concert Venue and Custom Swimming Pool The Rockstar Pool is one of the most ambitious, imaginative, and large-scale residential pool builds ever completed by Legendary Escapes. Designed and built by Al Curtis, this project was created for a homeowner whose entire life revolves around performance, music, and living boldly. This is far more than a swimming pool. It is a backyard concert venue, a sculpted grotto, a hot tub, a swim-up bar, a VIP lounge, a performance platform, and a fully engineered artistic environment built as a single cohesive experience. A Client With a True Rockstar Life The homeowner’s request was simple in spirit but extraordinary in scale: create a pool environment that matched a life centered on creativity and performance. His background includes jousting at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, on-stage theatrical work, a home rebuilt around music and entertainment, and longstanding connections within the rock world. With a 16-acre horse farm and a passion for bold design, he needed a pool that reflected his personality. His project requirements included a grotto, waterfall, hot tub, swim-up bar, performance area, and multiple lounging zones. Every feature had to feel original, dramatic, and purposeful. The Design Vision Designer and builder Al Curtis immediately recognized that this build needed to be expansive, theatrical, and seamlessly integrated into the landscape. The pool needed to make a statement without obstructing panoramic views of the surrounding farm and open sky. The spark for the design came from an unexpected source: steel grates salvaged from an old carnival tilt-a-whirl ride. This inspired the concept of a floating performance stage built over the pool. What began as a small idea quickly grew into a large-scale platform complete with a concrete stage, integrated lighting, waterfalls, backstage areas, and custom metalwork. As the stage expanded, so did the pool, the patio, and the entire environment—ultimately transforming the backyard into a private amphitheater. Repurposed Materials Used as Art Legendary Escapes is known for incorporating reclaimed materials into artistic, sculptural pool environments. This project includes an extraordinary collection of repurposed components: Tilt-a-whirl steel used as the main stage structure Carnival flooring panels transformed into large fire-feature guitars Trumpet and trombone bells refitted as lighting fixtures Reclaimed street lamps custom-painted for poolside lighting 3D-printed album covers used as illuminated wall panels Concrete replicas of Marshall speakers integrated under the stage Every material was selected to bring character, history, and energy to the space. Artistic Features and Highlights The Rockstar Pool includes numerous custom artistic elements, such as: A ten-foot mosaic “album cover” inset into the pool floor Eight-foot sculpted guitars along the fence line Guitar-shaped fire features Backlit album panels positioned just above the water A “Rockstar” sign paired with sculpted concrete amplifier towers A VIP seating area built from restored tilt-a-whirl ride cars Every corner of the environment contains layered artistic details. Engineering Challenges and Solutions Creating a fully functional concert stage over the deep end of the pool required extensive planning and engineering. Key complexities included: Designing a safe, weight-bearing steel and concrete stage structure Adjusting stage elevation mid-build to achieve optimal height Installing three complete filtration systems concealed beneath the stage Applying ecoFinish throughout the pool, spa, and grotto Rebuilding existing decking and integrating a three-story observation tower Ensuring the massive pool structure preserved the property’s sightlines The technical demands of this project were matched only by the creative vision behind it. The Legendary Team This build was completed by a multi-generational team of craftsmen and artists, including: Al Curtis – Designer and builder Jesse Curtis – Project manager and construction artist Mark Curtis – Filtration systems and plumbing Annie Curtis – Stonework and water features Karen Olson – Tile, stonework, and patio murals Frank DiPiazza – Structural construction and decking Brendan Schafer – On-site support and maintenance dbaker designs – Custom mosaic creation Daren Baker – Custom metal guitars and lighting elements Each contributor played a critical role in shaping the final environment. A Client Who Trusted the Process As with many Legendary Escapes projects, this build evolved organically. The homeowner provided inspiration and trust, allowing the team to respond to the evolving environment. Several features—including the guitar fence, fire elements, and VIP seating area—were conceived and built during the process as the design revealed new opportunities. The Final Result The Rockstar Pool is now a fully functional concert venue, swimming pool, artistic installation, and outdoor living space. It is dramatic, expressive, engineered with care, and truly one-of-a-kind. This project reflects the homeowner’s personality and passion, and stands as one of the most ambitious designs ever produced by Legendary Escapes.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

Elevate Your Bathing Experience with Kohler Shower Accessories Showerheads and Rain Showers BRAQ brings you “Kohler's Shower accessories designed” to turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat. From rainfall showerheads to body jets, the options are endless. Features of Kohler Shower Accessories: Multiple spray settings Thermostatic temperature control Easy-clean nozzles Chrome, matte black, and gold finishes Whether it’s a luxury suite or a compact space, BRAQ helps you configure your Shower accessories for the ultimate relaxation. Hand Showers and Slide Bars Adjustable and ergonomic, Kohler’s hand showers with slide bars are ideal for family use. They are: Easy to install Water-efficient Sleek in design Complementary to various décor themes Why BRAQ by BRCeramics Is the Best Tile Shop and Tiles Showroom BRAQ isn’t just a destination for bath fittings. As a “premium Tile Store”, we house an expansive collection of floor tiles, wall tiles, and designer tiles that perfectly complement Kohler’s bathware. Our displays help you visualize the full setup – from Toilet Sets and Vanities to Tiles and Faucets – all in one place. Benefits of visiting our Tile Shop: One-stop-shop for complete bathroom solutions Expert assistance on product combinations Interactive displays with real-life mockups Access to exclusive Kohler designs Tiles and Bathroom Aesthetics – Harmonizing Space BRAQ goes beyond being a Tiles Showroom. We believe in curating spaces that are both functional and artistic. Our tile collection is chosen to match Kohler’s elite fittings in color, design, and texture. Tiles available at BRAQ include: Matte and glossy ceramic tiles Large-format vitrified tiles Anti-skid bathroom floor tiles Decorative wall cladding By visiting our “Tile Store”, you can see how Kohler fittings blend seamlessly with our tile solutions for a completely styled bathroom. Client Experience at BRAQ BRCeramics At BRAQ, we prioritize customer satisfaction and experience. Our trained staff takes the time to understand your needs, preferences, and design goals. Our Process: Consultation and product education On-site demo and layout planning Finalization of fittings and tiles Delivery and installation coordination Post-installation service support We ensure that you leave with not just products but with complete peace of mind. Sustainability and Innovation Kohler is globally recognized for sustainable practices. All Kohler bath fittings available at BRAQ are engineered for: Reduced water consumption Long lifecycle Minimal maintenance Recyclable packaging Choose “eco-friendly Toilet Sets” and Water Sense-certified Faucets without compromising on style or performance. Project Applications – From Homes to Hotels BRAQ supplies Kohler fittings and tiles for: Residential apartments Bungalows and villas Boutique hotels Corporate offices Hospitality spaces Our Tile Showroom features actual-size mockups, allowing builders and architects to make confident choices for large-scale projects. Visit BRAQ Today – The Best Tiles Shop in Delhi NCR Looking for the “best bath fittings” and “designer tiles in Delhi NCR”? BRAQ by BRCeramics is your ultimate destination. From premium Kohler Toilet Sets to eye-catching Vessel Wash Basins and Mirrors, we offer the full spectrum of products under one roof. Find us easily by searching "Tile Shop near me" or "Tiles showroom Delhi NCR" and explore why BRAQ is the most trusted name in the business. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: Are Kohler bath fittings at BRAQ covered under warranty? Yes, all Kohler products sold at BRAQ come with official manufacturer warranties and service support. Q2: Can I see full bathroom setups at the Tiles Showroom? Absolutely. BRAQ features real-size mockups that showcase Kohler Toilet Sets, Vanities, Faucets, and Tiles in functional layouts. Q3: Do you offer home delivery and installation? Yes, we offer both delivery and installation support across Delhi NCR. Q4: What makes Kohler Faucets better than others? Kohler Faucets are known for superior build quality, water efficiency, and design innovation. Q5: Can I consult with a designer at BRAQ? Yes, we offer in-store and virtual consultation with our design experts to help you plan your bathroom. Visit BRAQ by BRCeramics Today Explore the best of Kohler bath fittings—from “Toilet Sets” to Shower accessories—and transform your bathroom into a luxury space. BRAQ’s Tile Shop and Tiles Showroom in Delhi NCR is ready to welcome you with expert guidance, premium products, and an unparalleled experience. Come visit BRAQ BRCeramics — Your “Luxury Bathroom Destination in Delhi NCR”. Contact us for personalized consultations or to schedule a showroom tour! Let me know if you'd like this content in a downloadable format or want to include images or product links. Visiting our website and Showroom : - https://brceramics.com/braq | https://g.co/kgs/zmGNejy #Besttoiletforbathroomindelhi | #Tileshowroominrajourigarden | #Tilesshopindelhi | #Tilesshopinrajagarden | #bestvanitiesforbathroomsindelhi | #bestwashbasinforbathroomindelhi | #bestmirrorforbathroomindelhi | #Bestwashbasinsforbathroomindelhi | #Bestvesselswashbasinindelhi | #Bestfaucetforbathroomsindelhi | #Bestparallelbathroomindelhi | #Bestvivetallbasinfaucetforbathroomindelhi | #Bestbathtubforbathroomindelhi | #Bestbathfillersforbathroomindelhi | #Bestshowerforbathroomindelhi | #bestshowerheadforbathroomindelhi |

Nestled within the vibrant urban core of the City of Lancaster, California, this illustrious project stands as a testament to modern community living. Comprising three stories and boasting 80 meticulously crafted units, this newly constructed apartment enclave offers diverse living spaces, from cozy studios to spacious 3-bedroom abodes. An integral part of a visionary four-building master plan, this community seamlessly blends functionality with luxury. It caters to households with incomes spanning from 30 to 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). Residents are treated to an array of on-site and off-site amenities, ensuring a truly enriched living experience. On-site residents benefit from a suite of services thoughtfully provided by the developer, encompassing comprehensive case management, primary health and mental health care, and holistic housing, education, and employment support. Beyond the confines of the community, a world of convenience awaits, with off-site amenities, including easy access to transportation hubs, esteemed educational institutions, and bustling shopping destinations replete with grocery stores, health clinics, and pharmacies. Moreover, this project's strategic location offers unparalleled accessibility, with seamless connections to public transportation and a plethora of social services and businesses within walking distance. It's not just an apartment complex; it's a vibrant, cohesive community designed to uplift and empower residents as they embark on their journey toward a brighter future.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

This West Shore property sits on the shore of Lake Tahoe, where strict TRPA requirements and a fast-paced schedule shaped the design process. The landscape supports a full remodel of the home and guest house, integrating TRPA-required BMPs, onsite stormwater management, and a planting palette suited to the alpine environment. Large-caliper, hand-selected specimen trees were placed with exacting care to frame views, anchor outdoor rooms, and soften the home’s contemporary architecture. An updated pool, lakeside spa, and curated art pieces create a series of modern spaces for family gathering and quiet moments by the water. The result is a functional, contemporary landscape that supports the home’s modern transformation while honoring Tahoe’s natural setting. *Completed while serving as Project Landscape Architect at a previous firm.

This West Shore property sits on the shore of Lake Tahoe, where strict TRPA requirements and a fast-paced schedule shaped the design process. The landscape supports a full remodel of the home and guest house, integrating TRPA-required BMPs, onsite stormwater management, and a planting palette suited to the alpine environment. Large-caliper, hand-selected specimen trees were placed with exacting care to frame views, anchor outdoor rooms, and soften the home’s contemporary architecture. An updated pool, lakeside spa, and curated art pieces create a series of modern spaces for family gathering and quiet moments by the water. The result is a functional, contemporary landscape that supports the home’s modern transformation while honoring Tahoe’s natural setting. *Completed while serving as Project Landscape Architect at a previous firm.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

Stephani Buchman Photography
Kitchen - mid-sized contemporary u-shaped porcelain tile kitchen idea in Toronto with flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, granite countertops, gray backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

Evergreen successfully completed this comprehensive kitchen renovation on Coronado Island, one of the most stunning destination in Southern California, transforming the space into a modern, functional culinary hub that balances aesthetic appeal with technical precision. The renovation required careful structural planning, beginning with the removal of existing cabinetry and assessment of electrical and plumbing systems. We relocated water supply lines and drainage to accommodate the new island configuration, ensuring all connections met current building codes. The electrical system was upgraded to support modern appliances, including dedicated 220V circuits for the range and additional outlets strategically placed for small appliances. The centerpiece island incorporates integrated appliances, requiring precise cutouts and reinforced support structures. We installed a dishwasher with proper venting and water connections, while maintaining seamless cabinetry lines. The ventilation system was redesigned to handle the open-concept layout, with a powerful range hood that ensures proper air circulation. Flooring installation utilized engineered hardwood with proper moisture barriers and expansion gaps, essential for kitchen environments. The white quartz countertops were templated on-site for perfect fit, with careful attention to seam placement and undermount sink installation. In the other side, the color palette combines crisp white perimeter cabinets with a contrasting dark island, creating visual depth. Three oversized pendant lights provide both task and ambient lighting, while recessed LED fixtures ensure even illumination. Black fixtures and hardware tie the modern aesthetic together, while natural wood tones add warmth to the contemporary space.

This West Shore property sits on the shore of Lake Tahoe, where strict TRPA requirements and a fast-paced schedule shaped the design process. The landscape supports a full remodel of the home and guest house, integrating TRPA-required BMPs, onsite stormwater management, and a planting palette suited to the alpine environment. Large-caliper, hand-selected specimen trees were placed with exacting care to frame views, anchor outdoor rooms, and soften the home’s contemporary architecture. An updated pool, lakeside spa, and curated art pieces create a series of modern spaces for family gathering and quiet moments by the water. The result is a functional, contemporary landscape that supports the home’s modern transformation while honoring Tahoe’s natural setting. *Completed while serving as Project Landscape Architect at a previous firm.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

The Legendary Rockstar Pool Build — A Backyard Concert Venue and Custom Swimming Pool The Rockstar Pool is one of the most ambitious, imaginative, and large-scale residential pool builds ever completed by Legendary Escapes. Designed and built by Al Curtis, this project was created for a homeowner whose entire life revolves around performance, music, and living boldly. This is far more than a swimming pool. It is a backyard concert venue, a sculpted grotto, a hot tub, a swim-up bar, a VIP lounge, a performance platform, and a fully engineered artistic environment built as a single cohesive experience. A Client With a True Rockstar Life The homeowner’s request was simple in spirit but extraordinary in scale: create a pool environment that matched a life centered on creativity and performance. His background includes jousting at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, on-stage theatrical work, a home rebuilt around music and entertainment, and longstanding connections within the rock world. With a 16-acre horse farm and a passion for bold design, he needed a pool that reflected his personality. His project requirements included a grotto, waterfall, hot tub, swim-up bar, performance area, and multiple lounging zones. Every feature had to feel original, dramatic, and purposeful. The Design Vision Designer and builder Al Curtis immediately recognized that this build needed to be expansive, theatrical, and seamlessly integrated into the landscape. The pool needed to make a statement without obstructing panoramic views of the surrounding farm and open sky. The spark for the design came from an unexpected source: steel grates salvaged from an old carnival tilt-a-whirl ride. This inspired the concept of a floating performance stage built over the pool. What began as a small idea quickly grew into a large-scale platform complete with a concrete stage, integrated lighting, waterfalls, backstage areas, and custom metalwork. As the stage expanded, so did the pool, the patio, and the entire environment—ultimately transforming the backyard into a private amphitheater. Repurposed Materials Used as Art Legendary Escapes is known for incorporating reclaimed materials into artistic, sculptural pool environments. This project includes an extraordinary collection of repurposed components: Tilt-a-whirl steel used as the main stage structure Carnival flooring panels transformed into large fire-feature guitars Trumpet and trombone bells refitted as lighting fixtures Reclaimed street lamps custom-painted for poolside lighting 3D-printed album covers used as illuminated wall panels Concrete replicas of Marshall speakers integrated under the stage Every material was selected to bring character, history, and energy to the space. Artistic Features and Highlights The Rockstar Pool includes numerous custom artistic elements, such as: A ten-foot mosaic “album cover” inset into the pool floor Eight-foot sculpted guitars along the fence line Guitar-shaped fire features Backlit album panels positioned just above the water A “Rockstar” sign paired with sculpted concrete amplifier towers A VIP seating area built from restored tilt-a-whirl ride cars Every corner of the environment contains layered artistic details. Engineering Challenges and Solutions Creating a fully functional concert stage over the deep end of the pool required extensive planning and engineering. Key complexities included: Designing a safe, weight-bearing steel and concrete stage structure Adjusting stage elevation mid-build to achieve optimal height Installing three complete filtration systems concealed beneath the stage Applying ecoFinish throughout the pool, spa, and grotto Rebuilding existing decking and integrating a three-story observation tower Ensuring the massive pool structure preserved the property’s sightlines The technical demands of this project were matched only by the creative vision behind it. The Legendary Team This build was completed by a multi-generational team of craftsmen and artists, including: Al Curtis – Designer and builder Jesse Curtis – Project manager and construction artist Mark Curtis – Filtration systems and plumbing Annie Curtis – Stonework and water features Karen Olson – Tile, stonework, and patio murals Frank DiPiazza – Structural construction and decking Brendan Schafer – On-site support and maintenance dbaker designs – Custom mosaic creation Daren Baker – Custom metal guitars and lighting elements Each contributor played a critical role in shaping the final environment. A Client Who Trusted the Process As with many Legendary Escapes projects, this build evolved organically. The homeowner provided inspiration and trust, allowing the team to respond to the evolving environment. Several features—including the guitar fence, fire elements, and VIP seating area—were conceived and built during the process as the design revealed new opportunities. The Final Result The Rockstar Pool is now a fully functional concert venue, swimming pool, artistic installation, and outdoor living space. It is dramatic, expressive, engineered with care, and truly one-of-a-kind. This project reflects the homeowner’s personality and passion, and stands as one of the most ambitious designs ever produced by Legendary Escapes.

These clients enjoy cooking and entertaining, so their vision was to open and connect three separate rooms—the kitchen, sitting, and formal dining rooms—to create a single open and modern space where everyone could engage and participate in the activities. Opening these spaces required complex structural engineering. The wall removals required supporting the loads from the second floor and meeting the engineering requirements for shear wall and lateral support. These beams and their connections to the posts they sit on were a challenge to install because of the complex nature of the home's original framed. All these loads had to be carried through the finished basement below and rest on new footings below the basement floor. The center kitchen island was expansive, with a single slab countertop that would provide both workspace and counter seating. This slab, at 64x120 and 789 lbs., required careful planning for on-site labor, transfer routing, and precision installation. Natural daylight now floods the space from all directions. Recessed can lighting runs throughout the space, all on dimmers for maximum control of ambiance. The Better Builders design team guided the selection of hardwoods, staircase details, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and color. The muted palette and clean lines work well with our couple’s eclectic furnishings and artworks. Now, traffic and activities flow better, and every inch of the previously divided space is utilized and enjoyed. The outcome is exactly as our homeowners envisioned…and as we intended.

The Legendary Rockstar Pool Build — A Backyard Concert Venue and Custom Swimming Pool The Rockstar Pool is one of the most ambitious, imaginative, and large-scale residential pool builds ever completed by Legendary Escapes. Designed and built by Al Curtis, this project was created for a homeowner whose entire life revolves around performance, music, and living boldly. This is far more than a swimming pool. It is a backyard concert venue, a sculpted grotto, a hot tub, a swim-up bar, a VIP lounge, a performance platform, and a fully engineered artistic environment built as a single cohesive experience. A Client With a True Rockstar Life The homeowner’s request was simple in spirit but extraordinary in scale: create a pool environment that matched a life centered on creativity and performance. His background includes jousting at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, on-stage theatrical work, a home rebuilt around music and entertainment, and longstanding connections within the rock world. With a 16-acre horse farm and a passion for bold design, he needed a pool that reflected his personality. His project requirements included a grotto, waterfall, hot tub, swim-up bar, performance area, and multiple lounging zones. Every feature had to feel original, dramatic, and purposeful. The Design Vision Designer and builder Al Curtis immediately recognized that this build needed to be expansive, theatrical, and seamlessly integrated into the landscape. The pool needed to make a statement without obstructing panoramic views of the surrounding farm and open sky. The spark for the design came from an unexpected source: steel grates salvaged from an old carnival tilt-a-whirl ride. This inspired the concept of a floating performance stage built over the pool. What began as a small idea quickly grew into a large-scale platform complete with a concrete stage, integrated lighting, waterfalls, backstage areas, and custom metalwork. As the stage expanded, so did the pool, the patio, and the entire environment—ultimately transforming the backyard into a private amphitheater. Repurposed Materials Used as Art Legendary Escapes is known for incorporating reclaimed materials into artistic, sculptural pool environments. This project includes an extraordinary collection of repurposed components: Tilt-a-whirl steel used as the main stage structure Carnival flooring panels transformed into large fire-feature guitars Trumpet and trombone bells refitted as lighting fixtures Reclaimed street lamps custom-painted for poolside lighting 3D-printed album covers used as illuminated wall panels Concrete replicas of Marshall speakers integrated under the stage Every material was selected to bring character, history, and energy to the space. Artistic Features and Highlights The Rockstar Pool includes numerous custom artistic elements, such as: A ten-foot mosaic “album cover” inset into the pool floor Eight-foot sculpted guitars along the fence line Guitar-shaped fire features Backlit album panels positioned just above the water A “Rockstar” sign paired with sculpted concrete amplifier towers A VIP seating area built from restored tilt-a-whirl ride cars Every corner of the environment contains layered artistic details. Engineering Challenges and Solutions Creating a fully functional concert stage over the deep end of the pool required extensive planning and engineering. Key complexities included: Designing a safe, weight-bearing steel and concrete stage structure Adjusting stage elevation mid-build to achieve optimal height Installing three complete filtration systems concealed beneath the stage Applying ecoFinish throughout the pool, spa, and grotto Rebuilding existing decking and integrating a three-story observation tower Ensuring the massive pool structure preserved the property’s sightlines The technical demands of this project were matched only by the creative vision behind it. The Legendary Team This build was completed by a multi-generational team of craftsmen and artists, including: Al Curtis – Designer and builder Jesse Curtis – Project manager and construction artist Mark Curtis – Filtration systems and plumbing Annie Curtis – Stonework and water features Karen Olson – Tile, stonework, and patio murals Frank DiPiazza – Structural construction and decking Brendan Schafer – On-site support and maintenance dbaker designs – Custom mosaic creation Daren Baker – Custom metal guitars and lighting elements Each contributor played a critical role in shaping the final environment. A Client Who Trusted the Process As with many Legendary Escapes projects, this build evolved organically. The homeowner provided inspiration and trust, allowing the team to respond to the evolving environment. Several features—including the guitar fence, fire elements, and VIP seating area—were conceived and built during the process as the design revealed new opportunities. The Final Result The Rockstar Pool is now a fully functional concert venue, swimming pool, artistic installation, and outdoor living space. It is dramatic, expressive, engineered with care, and truly one-of-a-kind. This project reflects the homeowner’s personality and passion, and stands as one of the most ambitious designs ever produced by Legendary Escapes.