© Anthony Crisafulli 2014
Design ideas for a contemporary landscaping in New York.

This expansive paver patio has an irregular pattern that draws in your eyes and adds energy to the design. A flowing natural flagstone patio insert adds an organic touch to the design. Plenty of room for a dining area and sitting area near the fire place.

Sometimes 'restraint' is the most important design element used in pulling a property together. There is a fine (admittedly subjective) line between running out of nerve... falling short... and goin over the top, produsing an almost comical theme park result. These clients had ambitious plans for building their new Edwardian home. Realizing their property had the lines of a once great garden, they cleverly slipped the new home onto th site without betraying the existing setting. Our team's objective was to enliven the tired grounds, adding features and linking areas in a logical, tasteful manner. The front entrance walkway and driveway pad are adorned with stone inlays. The former garage (now a garden shed) and adjoining brick wing all are alive with climbing trees. What was once a sunken vegetable patch is now a Celtic cross parterre. Rubble pathways weave through boxwood, lavender and rose standards. A sad, sagging dry stone wall is completely rebuilt (once again dry). It now enjoys the addition of a small recessed water feature. A wonderful and spacious lower garden is fully revitalized and connected to the upper area with a grand staircase. Sitting areas share a view of an exquisite cascading water feature. The bronze ladies stand in a raised pool, set into a larger perennial border.

Sometimes 'restraint' is the most important design element used in pulling a property together. There is a fine (admittedly subjective) line between running out of nerve... falling short... and goin over the top, produsing an almost comical theme park result. These clients had ambitious plans for building their new Edwardian home. Realizing their property had the lines of a once great garden, they cleverly slipped the new home onto th site without betraying the existing setting. Our team's objective was to enliven the tired grounds, adding features and linking areas in a logical, tasteful manner. The front entrance walkway and driveway pad are adorned with stone inlays. The former garage (now a garden shed) and adjoining brick wing all are alive with climbing trees. What was once a sunken vegetable patch is now a Celtic cross parterre. Rubble pathways weave through boxwood, lavender and rose standards. A sad, sagging dry stone wall is completely rebuilt (once again dry). It now enjoys the addition of a small recessed water feature. A wonderful and spacious lower garden is fully revitalized and connected to the upper area with a grand staircase. Sitting areas share a view of an exquisite cascading water feature. The bronze ladies stand in a raised pool, set into a larger perennial border.

Sometimes 'restraint' is the most important design element used in pulling a property together. There is a fine (admittedly subjective) line between running out of nerve... falling short... and goin over the top, produsing an almost comical theme park result. These clients had ambitious plans for building their new Edwardian home. Realizing their property had the lines of a once great garden, they cleverly slipped the new home onto th site without betraying the existing setting. Our team's objective was to enliven the tired grounds, adding features and linking areas in a logical, tasteful manner. The front entrance walkway and driveway pad are adorned with stone inlays. The former garage (now a garden shed) and adjoining brick wing all are alive with climbing trees. What was once a sunken vegetable patch is now a Celtic cross parterre. Rubble pathways weave through boxwood, lavender and rose standards. A sad, sagging dry stone wall is completely rebuilt (once again dry). It now enjoys the addition of a small recessed water feature. A wonderful and spacious lower garden is fully revitalized and connected to the upper area with a grand staircase. Sitting areas share a view of an exquisite cascading water feature. The bronze ladies stand in a raised pool, set into a larger perennial border.

By closing one doorway, a longer run of cabinets allowed for cabinets on the right of the range. We opened the walls to the foyer, and the space is far more open to the rest of the home

Master suite
Example of a large arts and crafts master carpeted bedroom design in Seattle with beige walls and no fireplace

The owners wanted to take advantage of their views, add more natural light, increase storage, and have the kitchen function more efficiently. From dark and feeling closed-in, it was transformed to open, inviting and a place they enjoy every day. All the wall cabinets were removed and a bank of three tall windows were added for more light and ventilation. After a new layout was designed, materials and finishes were selected. The first thing that is noticed when you walk into the room is the wall behind the range. The large expanse is very unique, like a work of natural art. When viewed it can look like waves or patches of clouds. The wall is a full slab of Dekton. The color is inspired by the industrial look of oxidized steel, with shades of grey, brown and black with metallic effects. Mixed woods and stains were used for the cabinets. Storage was maximized, each drawer and cabinet have a function. The island is a perfect landing spot for groceries, meal prep or a buffet. Floating shelves add and open look. The elegant banquette was custom built for the space. It has a slanted back for comfort and with styled legs it keeps it airy and light. The “L” shape optimizes the space and created a natural conversation spot and view of the water. The kitchen has French doors that access an expansive deck, perfect for entertaining. The space was designed for this active couple making it a place to entertain and live everyday with joy.

Learn seed starting basics and get a jump start on growing the flower garden of your dreams with the new book, Cut Flower Garden. In this striking guide you will find everything you need to grow, harvest, and arrange stunning seasonal blooms. With equal parts instruction and inspiration, Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden welcomes you into Erin Benzakein’s abundant, bloom-filled world, and is a feast for every flower lover’s eyes and soul. Floret Farm's Cut Flower Garden. Written by Erin Benzakein with Julie Chai. Photos by Michèle M. Waite. Published by Chronicle Books.

The base of an unruly hillside is transformed into a destination spot with this stunning gazebo covered random flagstone patio inset with a stone conversation circle. Woodinville, WA.

Wow! What a “Great Room!” This phrase, taken in both its literal & literary meanings is one of the best ways to describe this amazing project. “Great room” def: a large room in a house that combines features of a living room with those of a dining room or family room. Check! We designed this project to extend the livable space of the house. With its wide A Frame porch, it allows for ample space to gather around the fireplace, relax in the mid-day heat or simply sit & marvel at the craftsmanship. We held nothing back on the detail, using reclaimed barn wood to create gorgeous beams, crown molding that wraps around the room, and custom curved detailing in the open gable. Reaching out to the side, we enter an intimate dining space featuring a built-in kitchen, a vinyl pergola & continued the stonework over, tying everything together! Lighting throughout the job was picked out by the homeowner & installed by our tech’s Plus, we built it with low maintenance products; Timbertech decking & Keylink aluminum railing – meaning, there is no sanding or staining!

Old world curb appeal, Silver mist flagstone, leuders limestone, arroyo rock & cedar mulch surface level w/steel reinforced concrete sub-surface footers and underground drainage. Native landscape, evergreens & perennials. Waterfeature accent and low voltage landscape lights. Photography by Brain Wancho

Sometimes 'restraint' is the most important design element used in pulling a property together. There is a fine (admittedly subjective) line between running out of nerve... falling short... and goin over the top, produsing an almost comical theme park result. These clients had ambitious plans for building their new Edwardian home. Realizing their property had the lines of a once great garden, they cleverly slipped the new home onto th site without betraying the existing setting. Our team's objective was to enliven the tired grounds, adding features and linking areas in a logical, tasteful manner. The front entrance walkway and driveway pad are adorned with stone inlays. The former garage (now a garden shed) and adjoining brick wing all are alive with climbing trees. What was once a sunken vegetable patch is now a Celtic cross parterre. Rubble pathways weave through boxwood, lavender and rose standards. A sad, sagging dry stone wall is completely rebuilt (once again dry). It now enjoys the addition of a small recessed water feature. A wonderful and spacious lower garden is fully revitalized and connected to the upper area with a grand staircase. Sitting areas share a view of an exquisite cascading water feature. The bronze ladies stand in a raised pool, set into a larger perennial border.

The owners wanted to take advantage of their views, add more natural light, increase storage, and have the kitchen function more efficiently. From dark and feeling closed-in, it was transformed to open, inviting and a place they enjoy every day. All the wall cabinets were removed and a bank of three tall windows were added for more light and ventilation. After a new layout was designed, materials and finishes were selected. The first thing that is noticed when you walk into the room is the wall behind the range. The large expanse is very unique, like a work of natural art. When viewed it can look like waves or patches of clouds. The wall is a full slab of Dekton. The color is inspired by the industrial look of oxidized steel, with shades of grey, brown and black with metallic effects. Mixed woods and stains were used for the cabinets. Storage was maximized, each drawer and cabinet have a function. The island is a perfect landing spot for groceries, meal prep or a buffet. Floating shelves add and open look. The elegant banquette was custom built for the space. It has a slanted back for comfort and with styled legs it keeps it airy and light. The “L” shape optimizes the space and created a natural conversation spot and view of the water. The kitchen has French doors that access an expansive deck, perfect for entertaining. The space was designed for this active couple making it a place to entertain and live everyday with joy.

The owners wanted to take advantage of their views, add more natural light, increase storage, and have the kitchen function more efficiently. From dark and feeling closed-in, it was transformed to open, inviting and a place they enjoy every day. All the wall cabinets were removed and a bank of three tall windows were added for more light and ventilation. After a new layout was designed, materials and finishes were selected. The first thing that is noticed when you walk into the room is the wall behind the range. The large expanse is very unique, like a work of natural art. When viewed it can look like waves or patches of clouds. The wall is a full slab of Dekton. The color is inspired by the industrial look of oxidized steel, with shades of grey, brown and black with metallic effects. Mixed woods and stains were used for the cabinets. Storage was maximized, each drawer and cabinet have a function. The island is a perfect landing spot for groceries, meal prep or a buffet. Floating shelves add and open look. The elegant banquette was custom built for the space. It has a slanted back for comfort and with styled legs it keeps it airy and light. The “L” shape optimizes the space and created a natural conversation spot and view of the water. The kitchen has French doors that access an expansive deck, perfect for entertaining. The space was designed for this active couple making it a place to entertain and live everyday with joy.

The owners wanted to take advantage of their views, add more natural light, increase storage, and have the kitchen function more efficiently. From dark and feeling closed-in, it was transformed to open, inviting and a place they enjoy every day. All the wall cabinets were removed and a bank of three tall windows were added for more light and ventilation. After a new layout was designed, materials and finishes were selected. The first thing that is noticed when you walk into the room is the wall behind the range. The large expanse is very unique, like a work of natural art. When viewed it can look like waves or patches of clouds. The wall is a full slab of Dekton. The color is inspired by the industrial look of oxidized steel, with shades of grey, brown and black with metallic effects. Mixed woods and stains were used for the cabinets. Storage was maximized, each drawer and cabinet have a function. The island is a perfect landing spot for groceries, meal prep or a buffet. Floating shelves add and open look. The elegant banquette was custom built for the space. It has a slanted back for comfort and with styled legs it keeps it airy and light. The “L” shape optimizes the space and created a natural conversation spot and view of the water. The kitchen has French doors that access an expansive deck, perfect for entertaining. The space was designed for this active couple making it a place to entertain and live everyday with joy.

Sometimes 'restraint' is the most important design element used in pulling a property together. There is a fine (admittedly subjective) line between running out of nerve... falling short... and goin over the top, produsing an almost comical theme park result. These clients had ambitious plans for building their new Edwardian home. Realizing their property had the lines of a once great garden, they cleverly slipped the new home onto th site without betraying the existing setting. Our team's objective was to enliven the tired grounds, adding features and linking areas in a logical, tasteful manner. The front entrance walkway and driveway pad are adorned with stone inlays. The former garage (now a garden shed) and adjoining brick wing all are alive with climbing trees. What was once a sunken vegetable patch is now a Celtic cross parterre. Rubble pathways weave through boxwood, lavender and rose standards. A sad, sagging dry stone wall is completely rebuilt (once again dry). It now enjoys the addition of a small recessed water feature. A wonderful and spacious lower garden is fully revitalized and connected to the upper area with a grand staircase. Sitting areas share a view of an exquisite cascading water feature. The bronze ladies stand in a raised pool, set into a larger perennial border.

This Victorian floor in Twickenham, Middlesex was in good physical condition for its age but needed a good deep clean. Our customer had informed us that they had never cleaned or sealed the floor in the sixteen years that they had lived there so it was well overdue. I went over to survey the floor and completed a test clean on a small section of tiling to see which products/techniques would work best. I like to do this as it demonstrates to the client what can be done, and it allows me to come up with an accurate price for doing the work. As you can see from the pictures, there was quite a difference in the test patch compared to the rest of the floor. Years of foot traffic from the street had taken its’ toll and the floor was very dirty. Luckily, the floor was in very good condition and had not worn too badly. Once they had seen the test patch, they were confident that it would be worth go ahead with my quote. It would ensure that the period feature was retained for many years to come. The colours on the floor were quite faded so it would be nice to get it restored. I started the cleaning process by first taping up the surrounding skirting boards and doors to ensure they were protected from potential splashing. Cleaning involved spraying the Victorian tiles with a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Pro-Clean which is a dedicated Tile and Grout cleaning product. This was left to soak in for about ten minutes and then scrubbed in using a black pad fitted to a heavy-duty rotary scrubber. This gives the floor a good mechanical scrub and works wonders releasing the ground-in dirt and soil from the tiles. The strong dilution of Pro-Clean will also remove any remaining sealers from the tile, however after sixteen years I doubted there would much trace of sealer left. Once done the floor was rinsed with water and all the soils removed with a wet vacuum. Following the initial clean the colours were already much stronger. Next step however was to improve on that by giving the floor an acid rinse using Tile Doctor Grout Clean-Up. This removes mineral deposits and generally brightens up the appearance of the tile. After another round of scrubbing the floor was rinsed with our high-pressure washer and then vacuumed, extracting all of the dirty water and dirt away in one go. The floor was looking a lot better and was left to dry overnight. After allowing the floor to dry overnight, we returned the next day to seal the floor. First, checking the floor was dry using the damp meter. Floors of this age can take a little longer to dry as there is no damp-proof membrane so it’s always worth checking as applying a sealer to damp tiles is not a good idea. Once I was satisfied it was dry eight coats of Tile Doctor Seal and Go sheen finish sealer were applied. This takes a while to do as each coat needs to dry before applying the next. The sealer will protect the Victorian tiles for dirt and stains, it also enhanced the colours in the tile and will make it easier to keep the floor clean going forward. My client was very pleased with the floor and mentioned that they should have called me in sooner! For aftercare cleaning I recommended Tile Doctor Neutral Clean which is an effective cleaner with a neutral pH, its designed for cleaning tiles without degrading the sealer. Jonathan Oldham South Middlesex Tile Doctor