NARI CAPITAL COTY, HONORABLE MENTION AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN $50,000 TO $100,000 The owners of this Mount Vernon home purchased it with plans to remodel the kitchen. The original space was tired, dark and disorganized. A peninsula separated the kitchen from the breakfast area and the adjacent sunroom was only accessed via a single door. The back pantry was poorly designed and there was no logic to the kitchen’s work space. The first step in this stunning transformation involved replacing the original peninsula with a large central island. Built using espresso stained furniture-quality cabinets with icon legs, open bottoms and exotic dark granite countertops, all kitchen traffic now flows around the island. The outside wall of the kitchen, featuring a 48” Thermador range, stainless steel range hood and glass tile backsplash, is the focal point of the new space. A stainless steel farm-style sink sits beneath one of two large windows that provide lots of natural light into the room. To the right, sits a 48” Sub Zero refrigerator/freezer. The wall adjacent to the family room was never used properly. Now it is home to two tall pantries, double ovens and a microwave. Creative pass through arches let the homeowner attend to guests while preparing food in the kitchen. The butler area adjacent to the dining room is filled with glass front cabinetry and additional cabinetry for extra storage. The kitchen is now part of an open concept design flowing from kitchen to dining room to sun room. By replacing a bearing wall with a structural header, traffic can flow from one room to the next making it brighter and more conducive to entertaining. More spacious than ever, this new kitchen is the hub of the home for this couple who love to cook and entertain.

The primary objective of this project was to create the ability to install a refrigerator sized for a family of six. The original 14 cubic foot capacity refrigerator was much too small for a four-bedroom home. Additional objects included providing wider (safer) isles, more counter space for food preparation and gathering, and more accessible storage. After installing a beaming above the original refrigerator and dual walk-in pantries (missing despite being in the original building plans), this area of the kitchen was opened up to make room for a much larger refrigerator, pantry storage, small appliance storage, and a concealed information center including backpack storage for the youngest family members (complete with an in-drawer PDAs charging station). By relocating the sink, the isle between the island and the range became much less congested and provided space for below counter pull-out pantries for oils, vinegars, condiments, baking sheets and more. Taller cabinets on the new sink wall provides improved storage for dishes. The kitchen is now more conducive to frequent entertaining but is cozy enough for a family that cooks and eats together on a night basis. The beautiful materials, natural light and marine view are the icing on the cake.

Originally prepared for a catalog of molding profile styles, this series of sketches illustrate various American housing styles.

This original 1940 two story Colonial Home includes a previous large addition from 1989. In the new renovation the original exterior colonial front was kept intact, and the rear addition modified to take full advantage of limited outdoor space and additional natural light for the interior. The homes interior was completely renovated end to end. The owner originally from Venezuela chose dark woods such as ipe, for the main entry stair, upper wood decks, and built-in outdoor benches. Dark American walnut was used for interior wall cabinetry and shelving in the den and living areas. Dark river stone occurs in strategic locations on the interior to connect with the tropical exterior landscape. The narrow front entry was visually expanded with an open stair and glass railings throughout. A large floor opening and large window introduced on the second floor floods the upper corridor, kitchen, and den below with abundant natural light. The clear glazing visually opens the upper floor interior to the large outside ipe deck. A new frameless glass bridge connects the guest house and garage to the main house and minimizes its visual mass from the lower deck below. Dramatic shading elements were added on the Southwest side, and extend unsupported over the upper deck and down to the ground to temper the afternoon Texas sun. The living and den are now simplified rectangular spaces with dark walnut cabinetry across one whole wall. The open kitchen is laid out in a linear arrangement with food preparation and cooking next to food storage with access to the formal dining. French doors were added across the back to provide light and easy access to the new raised concrete deck. The Master Bath is organized around a long vanity with a free standing tub set in river stone and a spacious semi private shower separated by a dark tile wall. Dark wood cabinetry with directed halogen lighting keeps the space warm and intimate. A previously hidden window on the front of the house was reopened to provide natural light in the adjoining Master Closet.

Originally prepared for a catalog of molding profile styles, this series of sketches illustrate various American housing styles.

Originally prepared for a catalog of molding profile styles, this series of sketches illustrate various American housing styles.

In 2009, we were fortunate to be selected for Renovations to the Chanticleer Mansion, including the Restoration of the Main Courtyard and Entry, an outdoor sitting room/porch, and a small Carriage House. Renown Chester County Architect and Historian John Milner did the research and design, and we at SunPower Builders did the Restoration. The Entry and Courtyard included a circular “driveway” with cobblestone walkways and iron gates. The years of changes to the house entry were peeled away to reveal its original configuration and dignity. The work included new steps, an arched portico with a copper roof, a massive replica door, and hardware with custom millwork and trim. The work on the 3 season porch included bracing the original structure while we removed portions of walls that had infilled the original arches, which we then made structurally sound and rebuilt. A masonry and fireplace, brick sills, and details along with cut bluestone floor, patio, and pathways completed the restoration perfectly. Additionally, there was extensive surface water management, drainage, and bed preparation. Today, the amazing gardeners of Chanticleer have created gardens that make this historic building an integrated feature of the landscape and gardens at Chanticleer.

Originally prepared for a catalog of molding profile styles, this series of sketches illustrate various American housing styles.

This project involved a complete refinish of an antique chest of drawers in the Federal/Hepplewhite tradition. The piece features solid hardwood construction in a 2-over-3 drawer configuration, bracket feet with a shaped apron, original cast brass oval bail pulls, and crossbanded stringing inlay in a contrasting light wood framing each drawer face, with a diamond inlay accent centered on each drawer. The client brought the piece to our Fort Collins shop for a full refinish. The existing finish had degraded to the point where it was obscuring the natural figure and warmth of the wood rather than enhancing it. The process involved complete stripping of the existing finish down to bare wood, thorough surface preparation to ensure full penetration of subsequent coats, careful color development to match the natural warmth of the wood's underlying tone, and a multi-step topcoat application to achieve the depth and clarity appropriate to a period antique. Particular care was given to the stringing inlay during stripping and surface preparation to preserve the integrity of the light-wood contrast lines, which are a defining decorative element of Federal-period cabinetwork. The original brass hardware was cleaned and polished, retaining its antique character throughout. The completed piece demonstrates the depth of figure available in well-seasoned hardwood when the finish is built correctly from bare wood - a result not achievable through surface application alone. G. Michaels Restoration has provided furniture restoration, refinishing, and repair services in Fort Collins and the greater Northern Colorado region since 1985. We work with private clients, interior designers, estate clients, and historic preservation projects across Fort Collins and Denver metro. Check us here: https://gmrestores.com/antique-furniture-restoration-projects-fort-collins

Originally prepared for a catalog of molding profile styles, this series of sketches illustrate various American housing styles.

The primary objective of this project was to create the ability to install a refrigerator sized for a family of six. The original 14 cubic foot capacity refrigerator was much too small for a four-bedroom home. Additional objects included providing wider (safer) isles, more counter space for food preparation and gathering, and more accessible storage. After installing a beaming above the original refrigerator and dual walk-in pantries (missing despite being in the original building plans), this area of the kitchen was opened up to make room for a much larger refrigerator, pantry storage, small appliance storage, and a concealed information center including backpack storage for the youngest family members (complete with an in-drawer PDAs charging station). By relocating the sink, the isle between the island and the range became much less congested and provided space for below counter pull-out pantries for oils, vinegars, condiments, baking sheets and more. Taller cabinets on the new sink wall provides improved storage for dishes. The kitchen is now more conducive to frequent entertaining but is cozy enough for a family that cooks and eats together on a night basis. The beautiful materials, natural light and marine view are the icing on the cake.

Originally prepared for a catalog of molding profile styles, this series of sketches illustrate various American housing styles.
Example of a classic home design design in Cleveland

Metallic Vision Deuxième by Jon Allen My signature-defined hand textured intricacies and carvings into the metal capture and reflect surrounding light sources creating enhanced interaction with dramatic illusions of depth and 3D movement as viewed from different angles. Hang it in your living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, office, or outdoors. This abstract metal art will wow and impress your guests. Display under natural lighting or make this original artwork the show stopping centerpiece of any room with track lighting or gallery spot lights for dramatic effect. Lighting and other environmental factors interact with metal artwork in a unique, organic way. Along with this signed piece of original metal art, every package includes easy mounting instructions, a measuring tool guide for simple installation, tips on lighting and other helpful information, and a Certificate of Authenticity. Unique pre-installed brackets for hanging are mounted to the back of each piece and "float" the artwork off the wall approximately 2". You can display this piece horizontally or vertically. Due to a wide variety of wall types, nails / screws for hanging are not provided. Every piece is quality inspected, gallery wrapped, and prepared carefully for safe global transit. This five panel piece measures 64" x 24" x 2" (162.56 cm x 60.96 cm x 5.08 cm) including 1" spacing between panels.

Phillip Cocker Photography The Decadent Adult Retreat! Bar, Wine Cellar, 3 Sports TV's, Pool Table, Fireplace and Exterior Hot Tub. A custom bar was designed my McCabe Design & Interiors to fit the homeowner's love of gathering with friends and entertaining whilst enjoying great conversation, sports tv, or playing pool. The original space was reconfigured to allow for this large and elegant bar. Beside it, and easily accessible for the homeowner bartender is a walk-in wine cellar. Custom millwork was designed and built to exact specifications including a routered custom design on the curved bar. A two-tiered bar was created to allow preparation on the lower level. Across from the bar, is a sitting area and an electric fireplace. Three tv's ensure maximum sports coverage. Lighting accents include slims, led puck, and rope lighting under the bar. A sonas and remotely controlled lighting finish this entertaining haven.

This detailed Victorian tiled hallway at a property in Camden was overdue some much-needed repair and maintenance. The owners of the property appreciated that original period features like this add a lot of value to a property and asked me to visit the property to quote for renovating it. The property was in a terrace of similar properties most of which appeared to have retained their Victorian character. I inspected the floor and found there were a couple of loose, cracked, worn and broken tiles that needed to be replaced. In addition, the floor tiles needed a deep clean and then seal to bring back the wow factor. I was confident we could renovate the floor but at that point unsure if we would be able to find exact match replacements for the damaged tiles. Fortunately, Victorian tiles are still in demand and I knew of several companies I could check with so I was confident they could be found. We discussed how long the work would take and assuming I could source the replacements agreed a price for the full restoration of the floor. After doing some research I managed to find suitable replacements with a company called Original Style and the work was scheduled for the following month. Firstly, we prepared all areas with protective tapes to threshold edges and skirting. This was followed by spaying the tiles with a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Remove & Go which is product designed to remove old sealers and coatings. After about ten minutes the tiles were scrubbed with black scrubbing pads and scrubbing brushes. Fresh water was used to rinse the floor and the slurry was extracted using a wet vacuum. The floor was inspected and then a second clean carried out, this time using Tile Doctor Pro-Clean which is a Tile and Grout cleaning agent. The same process of application was used and after rinsing and extracting the dirt the tiles were given a steam clean. This ensured all the dirt was lifted out of the pores of the tile and the floor was now as clean as it possible could be. The next step was the remove the loose and cracked tiles using the reclaimed tiles we had sourced earlier. Some cuts were necessary to get the replacements to match the originals but overall the plan worked. A quick drying adhesive was used to secure the tiles so we could apply the grout shortly after. The whole floor was then re-grouted and cleaned off to ensure a good match. The floor was left to dry off overnight, and you could already see it was now looking considerably improved. Returning the next morning we checked the floor was dry using a moisture meter, this is important as to apply a sealer to damp tiles will lead to a patchy experience. All was well so we were ready to apply the sealer. To start a single base coat of Tile Doctor Colour Grow sealer was applied to the floor and left to dry. This sealer is an impregnator that protects from within by occupying the pores in the clay tile improving colour in the process. This sealer does leave a matt finish however and the client wanted a subtle shine so one dry it was followed by four coats of Tile Doctor Seal & Go. The combination of the two sealers works really well to add long lasting protection to the tiles and provide the desired finish to the floor. The floor was much improved, and the client was delighted. The detailed pattern and colours were now much more prominent, and the hallway looked much more inviting for both the owner and their guests. For the aftercare of Victorian tiles, I recommended the use of Tile Doctor Neutral Cleaner which is pH neutral and won’t prematurely erode the life of the sealer. Nigel Voyce North London Tile Doctor

A bento box is more than just a lunch container—it’s a reflection of Japanese culture, mindful eating, and balanced nutrition. Traditionally used in Japan, bento boxes have gained global popularity due to their practicality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to promote healthy eating habits. What Is a Bento Box? A bento box is a single-portion packed meal, neatly arranged in a compartmentalized container. The word “bento” originates from the Chinese term meaning convenient, which perfectly describes its purpose. A typical bento includes rice or noodles, protein like fish, meat, or tofu, and a variety of vegetables or side dishes, all placed in separate sections to maintain flavor and presentation. Cultural Significance of Bento Boxes In Japan, bento boxes represent care, effort, and balance. Parents often prepare bento meals for their children as a symbol of love, while office workers rely on them for nutritious meals during busy days. Special versions like ekiben (railway station bento) and character bento (decorated meals shaped like animals or cartoons) highlight the creativity and cultural importance of bento-making. Health Benefits of Using a Bento Box One of the biggest advantages of a bento box is its role in portion control and balanced nutrition. Since the box has fixed compartments, it encourages variety without overeating. A well-prepared bento typically follows the principle of: 40–50% carbohydrates 30–40% vegetables 20–30% protein This balance helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and reduces the reliance on unhealthy fast food. Modern Bento Boxes and Their Uses Today’s bento boxes are designed to suit modern lifestyles. They are available in microwave-safe, leak-proof, and eco-friendly materials such as stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and bamboo fiber. Many come with insulated layers, sauce containers, and cutlery, making them ideal for: Office lunches School meals Travel and picnics Fitness and meal-prep routines With the rise of sustainable living, reusable bento boxes also help reduce single-use plastic waste. Bento Boxes in Everyday Life Bento boxes are no longer limited to Japanese cuisine. People worldwide use them to pack Indian, Western, vegan, or keto meals. From chapati and sabzi to pasta and salads, bento boxes adapt easily to different food preferences while keeping meals fresh and organized. Why Bento Boxes Are So Popular Today The popularity of bento boxes is driven by busy schedules, health awareness, and social media trends. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest showcase beautifully arranged bento meals, inspiring people to eat better and enjoy the process of food preparation. They combine functionality, aesthetics, and mindfulness, making meals more enjoyable. Conclusion A bento box is a smart and stylish way to enjoy homemade meals while staying healthy and organized. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, save money, or reduce environmental impact, a bento box offers a simple yet effective solution. With its deep cultural roots and modern versatility, the bento box continues to be a timeless companion for everyday meals.

This client from North London had recently bought a property in Highgate N6 and during renovation had discovered an original Victorian tiled floor in the hallway. The floor was laid in a classic black and white diamond pattern but unfortunately a large section was missing and had been filled with concrete. Furthermore, most of the remaining floor had been covered in cement and glue. I carried out a survey of the floor to determine the main issues and was then able to email over a quote later that day that included rebuilding the missing section of flooring. I suspect the floor had been excavated at some point in the past to install central heating and then rather than have the excavated section restored it was simply back filled and then levelled with a cement screed before finally gluing down a carpet on top. Once the quote was accepted, I sourced replacement tiles from the Vintage Floor Tile company. Situated in Kent they are a reclamation yard that specialises in supplying original geometric and encaustic tiles including the major historical makers such as Minton and Craven Dunnill. Armed with replacement tiles I started by removing the concrete that had been used to backfill the missing section and prepare a new surface for tiling with quick drying cement. When ready I was able to carefully build back the original pattern using the replacements. The tiles were secured with tile adhesive and once that had gone off, they were grouted. The floor was left to set fully overnight and then the next day I was able to return and clean the whole floor using a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Remove and Go. As usual this was left to soak into the tiles for a good ten minutes before being scrubbed into the tiles using a black scrubbing pad. The Tile Doctor Remove and Go did a good job of cleaning the floor and the cleaning solution soon turned black with dirt during the scrubbing. The floor was rinsed with water and the soil extracted with a wet vacuum. After inspecting the floor any areas that needed further work were hand scrubbed and rinsed again until I was happy the floor was clean. The last part of the cleaning process was to give the tiles an acid wash using Tile Doctor Acid Gel which further cleans the floor by removing old cement residue and grout haze. It also neutralises efflorescent salts in the tiles which are a common issue with floors of this age with no damp proof membrane. After another rinse and extraction, the floor was given a final rinse and then dried as much as possible using the wet vacuum. I left the floor to dry out for a couple of days before returning to apply a protective sealer. Tile and Stone should be dry before sealing so I use a damp meter first to double check. All was well so to seal the tiles I proceeded to apply the first of what would be three coats of sealer. I used Tile Doctor Colour Grow for this, it works by impregnating the tile occupying the pores and thereby preventing dirt from becoming ingrained there. This product also enhances the black and white colour of the tiles and makes the floor much easier to clean. Once done the floor was transformed and needless to say my customer was very pleased with the result. For the aftercare of Victorian Tiled floors, I recommend the use of a ph neural tile cleaner such as Tile Doctor Neutral Cleaner; most supermarket tile cleaners are simply too strong for use on sealed floors and can strip off the sealer prematurely. Andrew Newstead North London Tile Doctor

Phillip Crocker Photography The Decadent Adult Retreat! Bar, Wine Cellar, 3 Sports TV's, Pool Table, Fireplace and Exterior Hot Tub. A custom bar was designed my McCabe Design & Interiors to fit the homeowner's love of gathering with friends and entertaining whilst enjoying great conversation, sports tv, or playing pool. The original space was reconfigured to allow for this large and elegant bar. Beside it, and easily accessible for the homeowner bartender is a walk-in wine cellar. Custom millwork was designed and built to exact specifications including a routered custom design on the curved bar. A two-tiered bar was created to allow preparation on the lower level. Across from the bar, is a sitting area and an electric fireplace. Three tv's ensure maximum sports coverage. Lighting accents include slims, led puck, and rope lighting under the bar. A sonas and remotely controlled lighting finish this entertaining haven.

Existing brick and mantel removed to expose the original firebox and structure. Preparation work began for the new surround, including surface leveling and layout for large format stone tile.