This article is posted here with the consent of the author. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, view, or opinion of Crestron Electronics, Inc., or of any of its employees. Crestron Electronics is not responsible for, and does not verify the accuracy of, any of the information contained in this article. By Jeff Singer The “smart” revolution began several years ago with smartphones (a.k.a phones) and has extended in recent years to thermostats, doorbells, alarm systems, and kitchen appliances. Smart devices are so ubiquitous that the term “smart” is overused to the point that it is almost meaningless. Companies are eager to jump on the bandwagon and claim their products are “smart,” and consumers proudly claim they have a smart home because they have lighting control. Misconceptions about smart homes are prevalent and create confusion in the marketplace. This can have deleterious effects on businesses and underserve consumers. Here are seven of the most popular misconceptions about smart homes: 1. Apps are smart Apps are convenient and easy to use. Yes, it seems there’s an app for everything. People expect to be able to download an app and do just about anything. App developers and many companies do not disavow consumers of this myth. On the contrary, they promote this idea with carefully worded descriptions. The promise of having the world at your fingertips for $1.99 is very enticing. Although it sounds too good to be true, it is also too good to pass up for many people. This leads to undervaluing home control and disappointment when the apps don’t work, which undermines confidence in our industry. The fact is that apps are not smart. They do not control anything. They must connect to and communicate with a control system or cloud service that processes, prioritizes, and executes commands. That’s the real magic and what most people do not understand. 2. Smart devices work together With so many smart appliances and devices on the market today, it’s understandable that the average consumer might think that they actually communicate and work together. This is simply not the case. Smart devices are not that smart. They are designed and manufactured by different, often competing, companies. There are no national or industry standards governing these products. Even if they all operate using Wi-Fi® communications, that doesn’t mean they work together. Some companies promote a home control platform, which unites different devices from different companies – in theory. The platform is yet another third-party software totally dependent on other companies developing APIs and writing control modules for their hardware to run on that piece of software. The devices are not independently compatible. Also, when updates are made to either the hardware or the software, functionality may be affected for some period. That’s a nice way of saying the device or system won’t work and there’s no way of knowing for how long. 3. It’s a DIY project Which brings us to the next myth, which is that the average person can do it themselves. Unless you are a skilled professional, I would not advise taking on a smart home project. You want to make a light turn on and off with your Alexa® or Google Assistant™ virtual assistant software, go for it. A smart home takes much more planning and expertise. I have no problem changing a light bulb or hanging a light fixture in my dining room; however, I am not going to rewire my house. I may change the flush valve in my toilet, but I’m not going to replace the pipes in my house. You get it. Integrating devices and systems, establishing different zones, creating scenes, designing the UI with a balance between control, feedback, and simplicity – all takes experience and skill. 4. Need a programmer to make changes Early adopters may have experienced the pain of trying to make a simple change or update to their home control system. Years ago, if the cable provider changed the channel line-up, the homeowner would have to call the dealer or programmer to make an appointment for them to come out to the house to reprogram the system. The system wouldn’t work as expected until it was updated, which often took several days and beaucoup bucks. Not anymore. Technology has evolved so now it’s easy for system owners to change favorite channels, create scenes, rename buttons, update images, and more. While a professional is needed for the initial installation and setup, the system is easy to manage once it’s up and running. This makes life so much easier for both dealer and customer. 5. Tech becomes obsolete quickly Similar to updating the UI, updating firmware or hardware used to be a stressful process. A smart home should be intelligent enough to update itself. Apps don’t become obsolete. Updates are constantly pushed out from the cloud, making them better all the time. The same is true for a good smart home system. New features, functions, and device support gets added in the background consistently, so the system you installed (or purchased) yesterday gets better over time. Swapping out decorative elements, such as keypads, dimmers, and touch screens is also seamless. When a new device is added, all the settings are pulled down from the cloud and it just works. No system interruptions. No sunk costs. No imposing house calls. No surprise bills. 6. Lighting control saves energy and money Lighting control is one of the most popular smart systems, but it takes more than just one system to make a home smart. On the surface, it makes sense that if you dim the lights ten percent, then you save ten percent of energy costs. If the shades are raised during the day to take advantage of sunlight so the lights don’t need to be on (or at least not 100%), but that causes the room temperature to rise a few degrees, which triggers the air conditioner to run longer and more often, was energy usage (or cost) reduced? A smart home integrates all the various systems and technology to optimize comfort, convenience, safety, and sometimes energy. 7. Home technology is easy to hack Security is at the forefront of people’s minds these days. Personal identities are stolen; email accounts hacked; private photos publicized; and more. A smart home must outsmart those who don’t respect privacy. Crestron control systems adhere to the strictest security standards. The same Crestron control system that goes into a home is also installed in secure government and military facilities, global banking institutions, hospitals, and other mission critical applications. When installed correctly by a trained professional, a Crestron smart home is the gold standard for security, comfort, and convenience.

Reclaimed White Oak wood from a factory built in 1907 freshly milled into beautiful wide plank flooring. This wood has so much character, beauty and history. Each floor is made one at a time by our family operated mill with love and care into each piece of this reclaimed wood. We offer free samples of this amazing wood direct from our mill. Buy direct and save money on one of a kind quality flooring.

The Home The Horizon is the culmination of many years of thoughtful customer ideas, past and present, that have influenced our designs. Our stunning semi-custom home represents true main-level living with panoramic views, on 35 acres in Peyton. The Horizon features large windows thoughtfully placed to capture stunning Pikes Peak views, provide natural light, and passive solar gain in the open living, dining and kitchen area. ​ With just over 3,800 square feet, four bedrooms, four bathrooms and a dedicated office this home is stylish, functional and efficient. The master bedroom and its oversized windows were designed to highlight the mountain view with a spa-like master bathroom and large walk-in closet, allowing direct passage to the laundry room. A large, covered back deck, stone accents and oversized three-car garage contribute to paramount wish-list items. This luxurious home fits the custom market without the custom price. The Builder MasterBilt Homes is locally owned and operated by Jim Stiltner and Clark Sundahl, who have been successfully building in El Paso County for nearly three decades. We make a conscious effort to provide our clients with a custom-built home - without the custom price - through broad vision, careful thought and handcrafted design. Our homes are uniquely tailored to fit individual lifestyles. Each member of the MasterBilt Homes family is invested in every client and every home we build. That commitment has been rewarded again and again through repeat customers and referrals, making up a large portion of our business. We understand that our future depends on your satisfaction. Modify our plans, bring your ideas, and we will help you realize your dream home. The Interior Design Masterbilt Homes’ Horizon is a genuine representation of our company culture, which values and respects the partnerships that make our business successful. This floorplan has evolved over the last 25 years with creative design ideas from members of our staff, past customers, designers and friends. Together, we have created a traditional yet modern home, with all the latest upgrades that customers have come to expect. You will see that the outside curb appeal is also reflected inside the home, with attention to every designed detail. MasterBilt Homes would like to thank our friends, family, customers, sub-contractors, professionals and partners for all your support and service creating Horizon

The owners hail from Europe and were looking for a home built of materials that would last. The steel frame, cementitious siding, concrete and glass making up the structure will endure for many years, making the house more sustainable. Built over a basement, the two story home uses two large glass lanterns, or light tunnels, to bring in daylight to all levels. One functions as the stairwell and both exhaust heat through operable skylights at the top. The basement is also daylit by a large exterior light well that creates a small walk-out patio. The bedrooms open onto a roof deck. Downstairs the secondary bedroom suite is used as a full-time office. The open plan living space and kitchen open to the rear yard to bring in light and view. The front of the house is shaded by an ancient oak tree that was carefully preserved throughout construction. Klopf Architecture Project Team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova, Ethan Taylor, Fernanda Bernardes, Sherry Tan
Structural Engineer: Holmes Structures
Heating and Plumbing Engineer: Monterey Energy Group
Ventilation Engineer: Pxt Consulting
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022 Location: Palo Alto, CA

Traveling to the heart of Avon, Connecticut, Sunspace Design introduced a timeless addition to a gorgeous residence — a breathtaking hip style glass roof system. The project features a 14’ x 20’ skylight, elegantly framed in mahogany. The large frame was assembled in advance at the Sunspace Design workshop, and installed with the help of crane-powered operation after being delivered to the site. Once there, our team outfitted the glass roof system with exceptionally performant SolarBan PPG 70 insulated glass. A collaboration between Sunspace Design and DiGiorgi Roofing & Siding was instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Sunspace Design, with its expertise in specialty glass design, led the charge in crafting, designing, and seamlessly installing the bespoke glass roof system. DiGiorgi Roofing & Siding, serving as the capable general contractor, carefully prepared the wood frame walls and structural components in advance, providing a flawless setting for the glass roof construction. This harmonious collaboration between specialty glass artisans and skilled contractors demonstrates the great result achieved when expertise converges through teamwork. This skylight marries artistry and functionality. The mahogany framing provides a timeless allure, and the insulated glass ensures excellent performance through four seasons of New England weather thanks to its thermal and light-transmitting properties. Other features include a custom glazing system and copper capping and flashing which serve as crowning touches that heighten beauty and boost durability. At Sunspace Design, our commitment lies in crafting glass installations that transmit nature's beauty through architectural finesse. Whether a client is interested in skylights, glass roofs, conservatories, or greenhouses, our designs illuminate spaces, bringing the splendor of the outdoors into the home. We invite you to explore the transformative possibilities of glass as we continue to elevate the world of custom glass construction with every project we complete.

Glo European Windows A7 series was carefully selected for the Elk Ridge Passive House because of their High Solar Heat Gain Coefficient which allows the home to absorb free solar heat, and a low U-value to retain this heat once the sun sets. The A7 windows were an excellent choice for durability and the ability to remain resilient in the harsh winter climate. Glo’s European hardware ensures smooth operation for fresh air and ventilation. The A7 windows from Glo were an easy choice for the Elk Ridge Passive House project. Gabe Border Photography

This outdoor living project was designed to create a seamless, comfortable, and highly functional backyard entertainment space. The installation included custom electrical integration throughout the patio cover, outdoor kitchen, shed, and surrounding yard areas, with a strong emphasis on clean finishes and concealed wiring. The patio cover features eleven recessed LED lights with black trim installed in a symmetrical layout, along with smart Caséta lighting controls and wireless Pico remotes for convenient operation. Two Bromic Tungsten 500 gas heaters were strategically installed to provide year-round comfort, paired with a concealed Bromic remote/timer system for streamlined control. Additional upgrades included new GFCI outlets in the shed, yard, and outdoor kitchen, conduit relocation and organization, and a dedicated 20-amp exterior circuit for reliable power distribution. The open-rafter patio cover design required careful coordination between soffit construction, lighting placement, and concealed conduit routing. Custom post wrap modifications were also completed to discreetly house gas and electrical lines for a polished final appearance. The result is a clean, modern outdoor space designed for entertaining, functionality, and long-term performance.

http://www.abedward.com - Our home exteriors company just completed a project for our Deerfield, IL customers. Just look at this inviting home that had GAF Roofing shingles added, custom masonry, natural cedar siding and K-Style gutters to complete a new home look. (847) 827-1605 - We are Chicagoland's Premier Roofing, Siding, Gutters and Windows Experts. We ALWAYS give FREE ESTIMATES! We have an A+ Better Business Rating Since 2003 & are an Angie's List Super Service Award Company! Our company specializes in Roofing, Siding, Gutters, Windows Contractor Your home is your single greatest investment, and so we strive to treat your home as our own, taking care to ensure top-quality products, distinctive design, and expert installation, all backed by comprehensive warranties. Let us create the home of your dreams and we'll take every step to be sure you're 100% satisfied with your project and become another one of our "lifetime customers." ### About A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. Since 2003 A.B. Edward Enterprises, Incorporated has been providing Chicagoland homeowners with products and installations in the roofing, siding, windows and gutters industry. A.B. Edward has an unblemished A+ Better Business Bureau rating, an Angie's List Super Service Award Company, and also delivers top industry leading products such as GAF, James Hardie Siding Products, Pella Windows and Doors, DaVinci Roofscapes, Mastic Exterior Siding and more. Today, the family-owned and operated business proudly employs more than 30 people, and our services go well beyond roofing to include, masonry, insulation, decks, exterior painting, stucco, carpentry and more. Exterior Remodeling Deerfield IL Home Exteriors Company Deerfield IL Home Exteriors Contractor Deerfield IL Exterior Home Repair Deerfield IL Affordable Exterior Company Deerfield IL Cedar Siding Deerfield IL Natural Cedar Siding Deerfield IL Cedar Siding Replacement Deerfield IL Home Siding Contractor Deerfield IL Local Siding Contractors Deerfield IL Home Siding Company Deerfield IL Siding Contractor Deerfield IL Affordable Siding Deerfield IL Siding Company Deerfield IL Siding Repair Contractor Deerfield IL Siding Repair Company Deerfield IL Siding Ideas Deerfield IL Fiber Cement Siding Deerfield IL Custom Masonry Deerfield IL Masonry Company Deerfield IL Gutters Deerfield IL Roofing Contractor Deerfield IL Roofing Company Deerfield IL Roofing Repair Contractor Deerfield IL Roofing Repair Company Deerfield IL Roofing Tiles Deerfield IL Chicago Roofing Repair Deerfield IL Residential Roofing Deerfield IL New Home Roof Deerfield IL Replace Roof Deerfield IL Roof Installation Deerfield IL Tile Roofing Deerfield IL Specialty Roofing Deerfield IL Top Roofing Companies Deerfield IL Leading Roofing Company Deerfield IL Gutter Company Deerfield, IL Gutter Installation Deerfield IL

Alpha Builders Group offers turnkey development, design and build services. Our professional expertise and superior knowledge in the construction industry is the key to excellence and success in every project we build. Our services integrate all aspects of a project including lot acquisition, land development, architectural design, permitting, construction, and financing. Alpha Builders Group is family owned and operated with over 20 years in the home building industry, building in Texas and Florida. With an impressive background of experience and talent, a rich tradition of craftsmanship, an outstanding customer service, and impeccable reputation, the Alpha Builders Group have and continue to enjoy serving the needs of their homeowners. We'll Build Your Dream Home or Remodel with the exact same Care, Quality, and Concern we would, if we were Building our Own Home. Contact Us Today!

http://www.abedward.com - Our home exteriors company just completed a project for our Deerfield, IL customers. Just look at this inviting home that had GAF Roofing shingles added, custom masonry, natural cedar siding and K-Style gutters to complete a new home look. (847) 827-1605 - We are Chicagoland's Premier Roofing, Siding, Gutters and Windows Experts. We ALWAYS give FREE ESTIMATES! We have an A+ Better Business Rating Since 2003 & are an Angie's List Super Service Award Company! Our company specializes in Roofing, Siding, Gutters, Windows Contractor Your home is your single greatest investment, and so we strive to treat your home as our own, taking care to ensure top-quality products, distinctive design, and expert installation, all backed by comprehensive warranties. Let us create the home of your dreams and we'll take every step to be sure you're 100% satisfied with your project and become another one of our "lifetime customers." ### About A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. Since 2003 A.B. Edward Enterprises, Incorporated has been providing Chicagoland homeowners with products and installations in the roofing, siding, windows and gutters industry. A.B. Edward has an unblemished A+ Better Business Bureau rating, an Angie's List Super Service Award Company, and also delivers top industry leading products such as GAF, James Hardie Siding Products, Pella Windows and Doors, DaVinci Roofscapes, Mastic Exterior Siding and more. Today, the family-owned and operated business proudly employs more than 30 people, and our services go well beyond roofing to include, masonry, insulation, decks, exterior painting, stucco, carpentry and more. Exterior Remodeling Deerfield IL Home Exteriors Company Deerfield IL Home Exteriors Contractor Deerfield IL Exterior Home Repair Deerfield IL Affordable Exterior Company Deerfield IL Cedar Siding Deerfield IL Natural Cedar Siding Deerfield IL Cedar Siding Replacement Deerfield IL Home Siding Contractor Deerfield IL Local Siding Contractors Deerfield IL Home Siding Company Deerfield IL Siding Contractor Deerfield IL Affordable Siding Deerfield IL Siding Company Deerfield IL Siding Repair Contractor Deerfield IL Siding Repair Company Deerfield IL Siding Ideas Deerfield IL Fiber Cement Siding Deerfield IL Custom Masonry Deerfield IL Masonry Company Deerfield IL Gutters Deerfield IL Roofing Contractor Deerfield IL Roofing Company Deerfield IL Roofing Repair Contractor Deerfield IL Roofing Repair Company Deerfield IL Roofing Tiles Deerfield IL Chicago Roofing Repair Deerfield IL Residential Roofing Deerfield IL New Home Roof Deerfield IL Replace Roof Deerfield IL Roof Installation Deerfield IL Tile Roofing Deerfield IL Specialty Roofing Deerfield IL Top Roofing Companies Deerfield IL Leading Roofing Company Deerfield IL Gutter Company Deerfield, IL Gutter Installation Deerfield IL

This kitchen renovation was designed to create a more open, functional space while adding thoughtful details that elevate everyday living. By opening two doorways and removing the peninsula that once divided the room, the layout now allows for better flow throughout the kitchen. The pantry wall cabinets were replaced with a custom buffet-style coffee bar, adding both storage and a dedicated spot for morning routines. Beautiful Canaan quartz countertops, gold finishes, and updated lighting bring warmth and refinement to the space, while the fluted tile backsplash from The Tile Shop adds subtle texture and visual interest. An operable bench seat by the window creates the perfect nook for a small eat-in table, making the kitchen both practical and inviting. To complete the project, SVB Wood Floors carefully feathered the floor finish to blend seamlessly with the existing hardwoods, ensuring a cohesive look without refinishing the entire main level. Thoughtful planning and quality craftsmanship helped transform this kitchen into a brighter, more functional heart of the home.

uxury Jewelry Showroom Interior Design Designed to create a memorable luxury shopping experience, this contemporary jewelry showroom combines sophisticated materials, premium lighting, and functional retail planning into one cohesive environment. The interior features custom marble display islands with brass detailing, illuminated wall showcases, premium glass display counters, and a striking double-height ceiling that enhances the overall sense of openness and elegance. Warm ambient lighting highlights every jewelry collection while creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers. Dedicated display zones improve product visibility and customer circulation, while private consultation areas provide a comfortable setting for personalized service. Every detail was carefully considered to balance aesthetics, functionality, and brand identity. Our design approach focused on creating an upscale retail environment that elevates the customer experience while maximizing product presentation and operational efficiency. Design Highlights Luxury Jewelry Store Interior Double Height Retail Space Custom Display Counters Marble & Brass Finishes Premium LED Accent Lighting Modern Ceiling Feature Design Elegant Product Display System High-End Commercial Interior Contemporary Retail Planning Functional Customer Circulation Bespoke Display Cabinets Luxury Shopping Experience

Our new project. To implement it, we were invited by the company in San Francisco. We had a very difficult task to do. The building in which we had to install sound-absorbing panels has a historical and architectural value, and the main thing was not to harm anything. And at the moment the building is used by the federal government, so that the work had to be carried out quickly and quietly, not to disturb the employees working in the building. We have carefully selected materials, so that the shade of color on the wall would be completely coincided with shade of the fabric set. In the choice, we stopped at a specially made for this purpose CLIPSO sound-absorbing fabric. This material is better than any other for this kind of work: 1) Clipso Sound Proof is specially designed for sound absorption. 2) This material is made of synthetic fabric impregnated with polyurethane, it is ready to cope with significant operational loads in public buildings. 3) The texture of the material looks like a canvas, which creates an additional atmosphere of comfort and harmony with every interior of the premises where we have installed it. In the base, behind the CLIPSO fabric, we have installed an additional layer of sound-absorbing material. This combination has increased the sound absorption to a factor of 1.0 (100%). All premises in which the work was carried out was provided to us for 3 days. During this time, we had to remove all lights, grille ventilation systems, as well as safety sensors and fire extinguishing systems. Then install the mounting profile in the places told by the architects,mount a layer of sound-absorbing material and sound-absorbing fabric CLIPSO. Then, it was necessary to put back all dismantled equipment. With this task we coped.

When maintained properly, quality hot tubs like the Bullfrog Spa shown at the top of this page can remain clean and in superb operating condition for many years.

This outdoor living project was designed to create a seamless, comfortable, and highly functional backyard entertainment space. The installation included custom electrical integration throughout the patio cover, outdoor kitchen, shed, and surrounding yard areas, with a strong emphasis on clean finishes and concealed wiring. The patio cover features eleven recessed LED lights with black trim installed in a symmetrical layout, along with smart Caséta lighting controls and wireless Pico remotes for convenient operation. Two Bromic Tungsten 500 gas heaters were strategically installed to provide year-round comfort, paired with a concealed Bromic remote/timer system for streamlined control. Additional upgrades included new GFCI outlets in the shed, yard, and outdoor kitchen, conduit relocation and organization, and a dedicated 20-amp exterior circuit for reliable power distribution. The open-rafter patio cover design required careful coordination between soffit construction, lighting placement, and concealed conduit routing. Custom post wrap modifications were also completed to discreetly house gas and electrical lines for a polished final appearance. The result is a clean, modern outdoor space designed for entertaining, functionality, and long-term performance.

The Arcadia Louvered Roof enhances the beauty of any style home and provides the flexibility of having an open roof when the weather is good or a solid roof to keep the rain off your patio when the weather turns bad. Eco-friendly Construction The Arcadia system is made up of recycled aluminum making it an extremely Green product. It is also eco-friendly, helping consumers save on passive solar heating and cooling. We Think Green Arcadia is proud to continue the company's tradition with its approach to Environmental Innovation. From the choice of lightweight materials and lean production methods to the efficiency of its drive system and designs, Arcadia is committed to operating as a more sustainable business and reducing its overall environmental impact. High-quality Building Materials Each Arcadia system is a work of art, constructed with care and attention to every little detail. Our system is powered coated, extruded aluminum with stainless steel components giving us the most durable louvered roof on the market today. From our superior drive system, which is UL & CE certified, down to the stainless steel tex screws that secures the system together. Nothing but the best! Our low-maintenance components eliminate painting, staining, and waterproofing of traditional shading structures. Using powder-coated aluminum construction prevents warping, cracking, and corrosion.

Triplex Doors are important part of the interior. And it is crucial to be attentive while choosing one. Each of us is guided by our own tastes and preferences while selecting a door for the rooms of our apartment (or for our home). You can choose simple wooden door or door with a glass. And if you have decided to buy door with a glass, the best choice is triplex door. Triplex glass is a several layer glass, which is made with the help ofpressing while heating. There are different variations of triplex, for example, there are types of glass, which are soundproof or have electric heating, etc. Triplex is produced with a special technique: in between two glass a specific membrane is placed, after which they are being glued at a certain pressure and temperature. Triplex doors are famous for their strength and long lasting operational term. The protective function of these doors is that they absorb ultraviolet lights, but at the same time let in a normal daylight. They don't require an extraordinary care. All these characteristics make doors with triplex convenient for usage. Doors with triplex glass can be applied in various ways. With the help of diverse designs and saturated colors, they will be perfect for bathroom, kitchen, living room and bedroom. It is possible to choose not only transparent but also frosted glass. The feature of these doors is that they expand the space and also scatter the light. It is also very important to point out the fact, that due to the manufacturing method and used materials, doors with triplex are ecologically clean.

http://www.abedward.com - Our home exteriors company just completed a project for our Deerfield, IL customers. Just look at this inviting home that had GAF Roofing shingles added, custom masonry, natural cedar siding and K-Style gutters to complete a new home look. (847) 827-1605 - We are Chicagoland's Premier Roofing, Siding, Gutters and Windows Experts. We ALWAYS give FREE ESTIMATES! We have an A+ Better Business Rating Since 2003 & are an Angie's List Super Service Award Company! Our company specializes in Roofing, Siding, Gutters, Windows Contractor Your home is your single greatest investment, and so we strive to treat your home as our own, taking care to ensure top-quality products, distinctive design, and expert installation, all backed by comprehensive warranties. Let us create the home of your dreams and we'll take every step to be sure you're 100% satisfied with your project and become another one of our "lifetime customers." ### About A.B. Edward Enterprises, Inc. Since 2003 A.B. Edward Enterprises, Incorporated has been providing Chicagoland homeowners with products and installations in the roofing, siding, windows and gutters industry. A.B. Edward has an unblemished A+ Better Business Bureau rating, an Angie's List Super Service Award Company, and also delivers top industry leading products such as GAF, James Hardie Siding Products, Pella Windows and Doors, DaVinci Roofscapes, Mastic Exterior Siding and more. Today, the family-owned and operated business proudly employs more than 30 people, and our services go well beyond roofing to include, masonry, insulation, decks, exterior painting, stucco, carpentry and more. Exterior Remodeling Deerfield IL Home Exteriors Company Deerfield IL Home Exteriors Contractor Deerfield IL Exterior Home Repair Deerfield IL Affordable Exterior Company Deerfield IL Cedar Siding Deerfield IL Natural Cedar Siding Deerfield IL Cedar Siding Replacement Deerfield IL Home Siding Contractor Deerfield IL Local Siding Contractors Deerfield IL Home Siding Company Deerfield IL Siding Contractor Deerfield IL Affordable Siding Deerfield IL Siding Company Deerfield IL Siding Repair Contractor Deerfield IL Siding Repair Company Deerfield IL Siding Ideas Deerfield IL Fiber Cement Siding Deerfield IL Custom Masonry Deerfield IL Masonry Company Deerfield IL Gutters Deerfield IL Roofing Contractor Deerfield IL Roofing Company Deerfield IL Roofing Repair Contractor Deerfield IL Roofing Repair Company Deerfield IL Roofing Tiles Deerfield IL Chicago Roofing Repair Deerfield IL Residential Roofing Deerfield IL New Home Roof Deerfield IL Replace Roof Deerfield IL Roof Installation Deerfield IL Tile Roofing Deerfield IL Specialty Roofing Deerfield IL Top Roofing Companies Deerfield IL Leading Roofing Company Deerfield IL Gutter Company Deerfield, IL Gutter Installation Deerfield IL

The renovation of an extensive linear residence and site facing Port Orchard waterway embraces water, greenspace and forested hillside. The home, completed this fall, serves as an artist’s studio, galleries, family space, game room, outdoor living areas and peaceful retreat. New interiors and exterior spaces and finishes, cabinetry, lighting, paving, landscape and courtyards become settings for the owner’s art + collections, three-generations of family and the wonderful colors and textures of the land + water. Inside, a monumental central stair and tapered two-story tall red cedar and steel column was designed as the residence’s entry focal point and internal landmarks, guiding the visitor’s eye to the main atrium…. and upward. Heavy wide-flange steel moment frames support the house and enable whole walls of glass. Rough, mill-finished steel contrasts refined cabinetry, stone, wood structure and defining dropped ceilings, reflecting the opener’s love of the tension between highly polished and detailed + rough, found art. Outside, A new southern “dining room” was designed for warm summer evening gatherings under a heavy-timber trellis. The focus, opposite water and island views, is a metal perforated screen. The final screen is composed of the lyrics from a Joe Cocker song of great meaning to the owners, cut from ½” marine bronze, set into dark-fired brick. “Oh My Darling, Be Home Soon….” Natural daylight and high-efficiency lighting are central players as in any gallery. From a high clerestory and extensive southern and eastern window-walls to carefully selected up-lighting, pendants, and accent fixtures, Rhodes Architecture + Light worked closely with the owner to ensure that their dark existing house would become one filled with light…. night and day. The owners, Ken and Jane, allowed us to interview them about their experience working with Rhodes Architecture + Light, and how they are feeling about living with the architecture today. What was your experience like, working with Rhodes Architecture + Light? “They worked with us because it was a remodel, an existing thing, and we had to try to make it work for all of our interests and how our family operated. They listened, and we listened, and it was a great communication back and forth.”–Jane How has the renovation changed the way you live and enjoy your home? “I remember saying to them that I want the whole floor heated because it gets so chilly down here. And we had the wood burning stove, but it was over there and now we just turn the floor heat on and we can come down. It’s cozy and nice. So we’re looking forward to winter now.”–Ken “We have 5 kids together and now a bunch of grandchildren. I wanted a marble countertop, but there’s just no way. I didn’t want it to be a place where I had to say, ‘No, no, no. Wipe up your drink, do this, do that.’ I wanted it to be a place where everybody can come with all the kids, and we make a big mess, and I can clean it up. And we can enjoy ourselves here, because that room upstairs, we almost never went in. And now we’re in there eating pizza and watching the game.” –Jane As an artist, Jane enjoyed the collaborative process. “I can’t believe it was as positive as it was. I went into it thinking it would be a great, creative, fun, collaborative thing, and I have to say, with our architects, it was. I like that creative process. I always say when I am doing a painting, it’s a series of problem solving so it wasn’t unusual for me. I am completely blown away by them and had fun with that part of it.” –Jane Architect: Tim James Rhodes RA AIA, Rhodes Architecture + Light Builder: Fairbank Construction Company Structural: Swensen Say Faget