Meet Don Fuego—a bold, luxurious, and unforgettable experience. ? Bringing this vision to life was an incredible journey alongside talented vendors and artists. We began designing Don Fuego at the start of 2024, keeping four key elements at the forefront: Moody, Sophisticated, Bold, and Memorable. Inspired by Día de los Muertos, this space pays homage to those who are no longer with us physically but remain with us spiritually. Every design choice reflects this essence—deep, rich textures, dramatic lighting, and custom elements that make Don Fuego a true work of art. One of the focal points is the custom-designed checkout counter, featuring a striking porcelain slab that embodies everything Don Fuego stands for: fire, intensity, and individuality. The moment we saw it, we knew it was destined for this space. Design is all about the details, and Don Fuego is no exception. From late-night idea exchanges to meticulous material selections, every element was chosen with intention. We introduced texture through limewash, mimicking the organic feel of a grave, and Roman clay, sculpted into arches reminiscent of traditional Mexican architecture. Lighting is the jewelry of a space, and in Don Fuego, it sets the mood. We layered task, decorative, ambient, and accent lighting to create an immersive atmosphere. One of our favorite details? A light fixture inspired by the cascarón, a cracked egg symbolizing good luck and prosperity in Mexican culture. The moment we discovered it, we knew it belonged here—to bring blessings to our clients and everyone who steps inside this curated experience. Don Fuego isn’t just a space—it’s a feeling, a story, a tribute. ✨

South Puget Sound: Build on Your Own Lot Full service turn key start to finish builder. We provide the financing, help you secure the land, develop your property, design and build your home, and give you the keys! DCS strives to ensure our customer's dreams become reality with integrity, imagination, and innovation from start to finish. At DCS Built located in Tacoma, Washington, our design and build team approach gives our clients a unique experience that ensures a successful project delivery. As licensed contractors and designers working together, we are able to focus on quality and design from the start of your project over low-bid construction. Why Design Build? Our capable creative team of professionals is working together with your best interests in mind through all phases of the Pacific Northwest (PNW) project. Our Service Area includes Puget Sound, North Pierce County and South King County. Note: The community dot reflects the builder's design center, sales center or other physical business address. The builder's plans reflect the price of the home itself and does not include the property. You are responsible for providing the property on which these plans will be built.

The owners of this large wooded property in Issaquah envisioned a “forever” home that would embrace the site’s natural beauty while accommodating their family’s long-term needs. The design focuses on creating a single-story, approximately 4,500-square-foot custom home with an attached 950-square-foot garage, thoughtfully nestled within the forested portion of the property to frame views of the surrounding landscape, stream, and pond. The home was designed with future aging-in-place in mind, providing accessible living while supporting the family’s evolving lifestyle. The modern, minimalist design centers around a great room with an open plan that seamlessly connects the main living spaces to the outdoors. Private areas are organized into wings to provide separation and tranquility while maintaining a strong visual and physical connection to nature. The existing cabin, located near the pond, was transformed into the “Pond House,” an entertainment-focused space that can accommodate recreation for the children or larger gatherings. Its open plan layout opens to the outdoors on two sides via large sliding glass doors—one leading to a deck overlooking the pond and another to a covered entertaining area—creating a flexible and inviting space that integrates indoor and outdoor living. + Architecture: H2D Architecture + Design www.h2darchitects.com + Interior Design: Briana Benton + Built by: Schenkar Construction

Infuse your home with generations of character using this exquisitely aged, physical vintage farmhouse canvas wall art. The artwork captures the delicate, weathered textures of antique botanical illustration, set against a rich backdrop of warm, muted tones that feel historic yet timeless. A brilliant asset for pulling together a authentic cozy farmhouse decor project, this gallery-stretched canvas print offers instant interior design inspiration for spaces needing a soulful, classic touch of living room wall decor. Shop This Exact Piece Direct From Our Store Link / Source URL: https://alletscomfort.com/products/arnhem-schilderij-villalaan-statige-villas-zomerbloemen HOUZZ EXCLUSIVE: Use code WELCOME5 at checkout for 5% OFF your first order! Available Sizes & Specifications: * Available Dimensions (US Standard Sizes): * Small Accents: 8"x8" | 8"x12" | 12"x8" | 12"x12" * Medium Sizes: 12"x16" | 16"x12" | 16"x16" | 16"x20" | 16"x24" | 20"x16" | 24"x16" * Large Statement Sizes: 24"x24" | 24"x35" | 28"x39" | 35"x12" | 35"x24" * Extra Large (XL): 39"x28" Ready to hang straight out of the box with pre-installed hanging hardware. Ships safely and securely right to your door.

Kensington, petite size Chesterfield which is ideal for compact living space. It creates an upright seating offering the traditional formal seating posture. ideal for both residential and commercial who wants to create a timeless colonial era. A masterful production by Locus Habitat of the classic Chesterfield, our sofa evokes the grand gentlemen's club tradition. There is perhaps no other home decor accessory that stands out like it. The moment a guest enters your living room, their attention will almost instantly be drawn to the regal, plush seating set. Many designers consider a genuine Chesterfield sofa to be the centrepiece of a physical space. You can build everything else around it. Frame: Handcrafted of kiln-dried hardwood with corner-blocked joinery Suspension: Sinusoidal spring and firm support bands. Feet: Crafted of solid Birch and fitted with antiqued brass casters (optional) Feet finish and studds varies by leather color. Cushions: Premium quality fill seat cushions feature polyfiber wrapped around multiple layer high density foam core Optional Down-feather fill seat cushions feature feather and down wrapped around a foam core. All cushion backs are upholstered in fabric that allows leather to breathe Cushion configuration varies by frame size. Upholstery Consideration: Fabric and leather dye lots vary; pieces purchased at different times may not match exactly. Premium white glove delivery. Care: Brush, dry microfiber cloth wipe or vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove dust. Rotate cushions for even wear. To minimize fading and dryness, avoid placing in direct sunlight. Check with our consultants for leather care.

Some families measure a life well-lived not in possessions, but in moments. Elevé Studios is the physical expression of that conviction. Set within a private equestrian property in Silver Creek in Park City, this 5,000 square foot accessory studio was designed to serve as the experiential heart of the estate. Vitruvius Built was engaged to deliver a structure that is equal parts athlete's retreat, entertainer's sanctuary, and private resort, built to the same precision and permanence as the main residence it supports. The program is unapologetically experiential: a regulation heated pickleball court, a private pilates and yoga studio, a professional golf simulator, and an expansive garage occupy the main volume, while a self-contained ADU provides accommodations for guests or extended family. Each element was specified and constructed to perform at the highest level, because for this family, investing in how you spend time is the only investment that compounds without limit. A 45-kilowatt solar installation with integrated EV charging reflects the same philosophy extended outward. The land that frames this property is part of what makes it extraordinary, and the family's commitment to preserving it is built into the structure itself. Elevé Studios is a testament to what becomes possible when a family knows exactly what it values, and partners with a builder who understands how to make it permanent. Architecture & Interiors: AD Architects

The owners of this large wooded property in Issaquah envisioned a “forever” home that would embrace the site’s natural beauty while accommodating their family’s long-term needs. The design focuses on creating a single-story, approximately 4,500-square-foot custom home with an attached 950-square-foot garage, thoughtfully nestled within the forested portion of the property to frame views of the surrounding landscape, stream, and pond. The home was designed with future aging-in-place in mind, providing accessible living while supporting the family’s evolving lifestyle. The modern, minimalist design centers around a great room with an open plan that seamlessly connects the main living spaces to the outdoors. Private areas are organized into wings to provide separation and tranquility while maintaining a strong visual and physical connection to nature. The existing cabin, located near the pond, was transformed into the “Pond House,” an entertainment-focused space that can accommodate recreation for the children or larger gatherings. Its open plan layout opens to the outdoors on two sides via large sliding glass doors—one leading to a deck overlooking the pond and another to a covered entertaining area—creating a flexible and inviting space that integrates indoor and outdoor living. + Architecture: H2D Architecture + Design www.h2darchitects.com + Interior Design: Briana Benton + Built by: Schenkar Construction

South Puget Sound: Build on Your Own Lot Full service turn key start to finish builder. We provide the financing, help you secure the land, develop your property, design and build your home, and give you the keys! DCS strives to ensure our customer's dreams become reality with integrity, imagination, and innovation from start to finish. At DCS Built located in Tacoma, Washington, our design and build team approach gives our clients a unique experience that ensures a successful project delivery. As licensed contractors and designers working together, we are able to focus on quality and design from the start of your project over low-bid construction. Why Design Build? Our capable creative team of professionals is working together with your best interests in mind through all phases of the Pacific Northwest (PNW) project. Our Service Area includes Puget Sound, North Pierce County and South King County. Note: The community dot reflects the builder's design center, sales center or other physical business address. The builder's plans reflect the price of the home itself and does not include the property. You are responsible for providing the property on which these plans will be built.

Meet Don Fuego—a bold, luxurious, and unforgettable experience. ? Bringing this vision to life was an incredible journey alongside talented vendors and artists. We began designing Don Fuego at the start of 2024, keeping four key elements at the forefront: Moody, Sophisticated, Bold, and Memorable. Inspired by Día de los Muertos, this space pays homage to those who are no longer with us physically but remain with us spiritually. Every design choice reflects this essence—deep, rich textures, dramatic lighting, and custom elements that make Don Fuego a true work of art. One of the focal points is the custom-designed checkout counter, featuring a striking porcelain slab that embodies everything Don Fuego stands for: fire, intensity, and individuality. The moment we saw it, we knew it was destined for this space. Design is all about the details, and Don Fuego is no exception. From late-night idea exchanges to meticulous material selections, every element was chosen with intention. We introduced texture through limewash, mimicking the organic feel of a grave, and Roman clay, sculpted into arches reminiscent of traditional Mexican architecture. Lighting is the jewelry of a space, and in Don Fuego, it sets the mood. We layered task, decorative, ambient, and accent lighting to create an immersive atmosphere. One of our favorite details? A light fixture inspired by the cascarón, a cracked egg symbolizing good luck and prosperity in Mexican culture. The moment we discovered it, we knew it belonged here—to bring blessings to our clients and everyone who steps inside this curated experience. Don Fuego isn’t just a space—it’s a feeling, a story, a tribute. ✨

Evoke a sense of timeless nostalgia and heritage charm with this beautifully crafted, physical rustic wall art canvas painting. Featuring a beautifully detailed weathered barn surrounded by open country fields, this piece delivers the perfect touch of cozy farmhouse decor to your walls. A brilliant choice for driving your next interior design inspiration, this premium stretched canvas print coordinates flawlessly with natural wood accents to create a comforting, character-rich focal point for your living room wall decor. Shop This Exact Piece Direct From Our Store Link / Source URL: https://alletscomfort.com/products/arnhem-schilderij-herfststraat-vuurrode-bomen-kerktoren HOUZZ EXCLUSIVE: Use code WELCOME5 at checkout for 5% OFF your first order! Available Sizes & Specifications: * Available Dimensions (US Standard Sizes): * Small Accents: 8"x8" | 8"x12" | 12"x8" | 12"x12" * Medium Sizes: 12"x16" | 16"x12" | 16"x16" | 16"x20" | 16"x24" | 20"x16" | 24"x16" * Large Statement Sizes: 24"x24" | 24"x35" | 28"x39" | 35"x12" | 35"x24" * Extra Large (XL): 39"x28" Ready to hang straight out of the box with pre-installed hanging hardware. Ships safely and securely right to your door.

In 17th century Isaac Newton identified the colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet) that make up the visible spectrum. And as his discovery at a time shocked the world and became a first step for a new era of discoveries and world evolution, we believe that the new Electric collection, creation of which is based on a solid theory of photon spectrum and physical characteristics of 4 speeds of rays which travel between Gamma as form of nuclear and cosmic radiation to infrared rays, a result of movement of lower-energy photons, will become a breakthrough of contemporary interior design. This collection reflects a principally new approach to perception of rug in interior making it an art object at the first place. Nevertheless, very important value that remains untouched whatever we do and however futuristic our works are is extreme care about ecologic background and sustainability of our product. Through all the history of Atelier Tapis Rouge each of our rugs has been manually drawn by the team of our designers and afterwards tinted and knotted by hands of best Nepalese craftsmen, who carefully maintain tradition of rug knotting throughout the centuries. The world has gone through a very hard time during last 2 years and perception of things, behavior, philosophic approach of people has changed drastically. We all need a recharge of energy and inspiration to restart our live paths in a new reality and there is no better place where we get energetic feed as home and family. Therefore, having created Electtrico we meant to boost the homes with warm solar energy – eternal source of life and continuity and we believe that it is a good start for new conquests. Designed by Natalia Enze

Meet Don Fuego—a bold, luxurious, and unforgettable experience. ? Bringing this vision to life was an incredible journey alongside talented vendors and artists. We began designing Don Fuego at the start of 2024, keeping four key elements at the forefront: Moody, Sophisticated, Bold, and Memorable. Inspired by Día de los Muertos, this space pays homage to those who are no longer with us physically but remain with us spiritually. Every design choice reflects this essence—deep, rich textures, dramatic lighting, and custom elements that make Don Fuego a true work of art. One of the focal points is the custom-designed checkout counter, featuring a striking porcelain slab that embodies everything Don Fuego stands for: fire, intensity, and individuality. The moment we saw it, we knew it was destined for this space. Design is all about the details, and Don Fuego is no exception. From late-night idea exchanges to meticulous material selections, every element was chosen with intention. We introduced texture through limewash, mimicking the organic feel of a grave, and Roman clay, sculpted into arches reminiscent of traditional Mexican architecture. Lighting is the jewelry of a space, and in Don Fuego, it sets the mood. We layered task, decorative, ambient, and accent lighting to create an immersive atmosphere. One of our favorite details? A light fixture inspired by the cascarón, a cracked egg symbolizing good luck and prosperity in Mexican culture. The moment we discovered it, we knew it belonged here—to bring blessings to our clients and everyone who steps inside this curated experience. Don Fuego isn’t just a space—it’s a feeling, a story, a tribute. ✨

The goal of this project was to provide a lush and vast garden for the new owners of this recently remodeled brick Georgian. Located in Wheaton this acre plus property is surrounded by beautiful Oaks. Preserving the Oaks became a particular challenge with the ample front walk and generous entertaining spaces the client desired. Under most of the Oaks the turf was in very poor condition, and most of the property was covered with undesirable overgrown underbrush such as Garlic Mustard weed and Buckthorn. With a recently completed addition, the garages were pushed farther from the front door leaving a large distance between the drive and entry to the home. This prompted the addition of a secondary door off the kitchen. A meandering walk curves past the secondary entry and leads guests through the front garden to the main entry. Off the secondary door a “kitchen patio” complete with a custom gate and Green Mountain Boxwood hedge give the clients a quaint space to enjoy a morning cup of joe. Stepping stone pathways lead around the home and weave through multiple pocket gardens within the vast backyard. The paths extend deep into the property leading to individual and unique gardens with a variety of plantings that are tied together with rustic stonewalls and sinuous turf areas. Closer to the home a large paver patio opens up to the backyard gardens. New stoops were constructed and existing stoops were covered in bluestone and mortared stonewalls were added, complimenting the classic Georgian architecture. The completed project accomplished all the goals of creating a lush and vast garden that fit the remodeled home and lifestyle of its new owners. Through careful planning, all mature Oaks were preserved, undesirables removed and numerous new plantings along with detailed stonework helped to define the new landscape.

A couple wanted a weekend retreat without spending a majority of their getaway in an automobile. Therefore, a lot was purchased along the Rocky River with the vision of creating a nearby escape less than five miles away from their home. This 1,300 sf 24’ x 24’ dwelling is divided into a four square quadrant with the goal to create a variety of interior and exterior experiences while maintaining a rather small footprint. Typically, when going on a weekend retreat one has the drive time to decompress. However, without this, the goal was to create a procession from the car to the house to signify such change of context. This concept was achieved through the use of a wood slatted screen wall which must be passed through. After winding around a collection of poured concrete steps and walls one comes to a wood plank bridge and crosses over a Japanese garden leaving all the stresses of the daily world behind. The house is structured around a nine column steel frame grid, which reinforces the impression one gets of the four quadrants. The two rear quadrants intentionally house enclosed program space but once passed through, the floor plan completely opens to long views down to the mouth of the river into Lake Erie. On the second floor the four square grid is stacked with one quadrant removed for the two story living area on the first floor to capture heightened views down the river. In a move to create complete separation there is a one quadrant roof top office with surrounding roof top garden space. The rooftop office is accessed through a unique approach by exiting onto a steel grated staircase which wraps up the exterior facade of the house. This experience provides an additional retreat within their weekend getaway, and serves as the apex of the house where one can completely enjoy the views of Lake Erie disappearing over the horizon. Visually the house extends into the riverside site, but the four quadrant axis also physically extends creating a series of experiences out on the property. The Northeast kitchen quadrant extends out to become an exterior kitchen & dining space. The two-story Northwest living room quadrant extends out to a series of wrap around steps and lounge seating. A fire pit sits in this quadrant as well farther out in the lawn. A fruit and vegetable garden sits out in the Southwest quadrant in near proximity to the shed, and the entry sequence is contained within the Southeast quadrant extension. Internally and externally the whole house is organized in a simple and concise way and achieves the ultimate goal of creating many different experiences within a rationally sized footprint. Photo: Sergiu Stoian

- RIDDLED DESK. The originality and workmanship of its legs are the outstanding features of the Riddled table, which incorporates the notion of porosity found in multiple architecture works by Steven Holl. The thin sheets of wood, folded through laser engraving, make this project even more spectacular in its apparent defiance of the laws of physics. These two legs, akin to origami sculptures, allow the passage of the internal light to create a myriad of lights and shadows. 78''3/4W x 39''3/8D x 28''3/8H. 78''3/4W x 43''3/8D x 28''3/8H. 98''3/8W x 39''3/8D x 28''3/8H. 98''3/8W x 43''3/8D x 28''3/8H. http://ow.ly/3yzu7W - PLYWOOD CHANDELIER. Creativity and innovation come together in a luminous sculpture constructed with a 2-mm wooden material, laser etched, and folded in an origami-like fashion, thanks to a complex technological process patented by Horm. The LED light, passing through the structure holes, creates unique plays of shadows that allow Steven Holl to offer the same emotion his architecture conveys albeit at a different scale. 39''3/4W x 15''3/4D x 12''1/8H. http://ow.ly/3yzu9J

This single-family home remodel was driven by the homeowner’s desire to “do the right thing” in the context of a neighborhood which is witnessing a change of character as the small houses of its quiet past are getting replaced by large luxury homes. One of the biggest initial challenges was to resist the temptation to increase the size and height of the house in order to gain even better views – to resist keeping up with the Joneses. The house already had an expansive view of Puget Sound. The owner also did not want the house to compete with the land for attention or resources – the house should be humble and respect nature, a metaphor for walking lightly on the earth. The site also had its physical challenges – it is classified as an Environmentally Critical Area due to its steep slope, and there is also an eagle’s nest nearby. Given these site challenges, minimizing the house’s impact on the site was established as an underlying guiding principle early in the design process. The footprint of the house was kept intact and the exterior changes were kept to a minimum. Even the deck and landscaping walls (both of which needed replacement due to failures in the materials) were rebuilt within the same size and footprints. The landscaping plan includes removing invasives and returning the site to native vegetation. The original house was built in the 1940’s and had endured various additions over the years. Another objective was to blend the division between the new remodel, the former remodels, and the original house – to make the house feel whole again and not a collection of random pieces. The use of salvaged materials and the reuse of existing materials were high priorities among many sustainable goals that included the conservation of energy, water, and materials. Photo by Grace Huang 1 of 3

Maintaining a pest-free home requires attention throughout the year. Seasonal changes affect pest behavior, and understanding these patterns can save homeowners from costly damage and health hazards. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for spring pest prevention tips, ensuring your property stays protected through every season. From spotting early signs to implementing proactive measures, these steps empower homeowners to take control before infestations occur. Understanding Seasonal Pest Patterns Pests adapt to changing weather, and knowing their patterns helps prevent infestations effectively. Spring: Awakening Pests Spring signals the end of winter dormancy for many pests. Rodents, ants, and termites start seeking food and warmth. Effective spring pest prevention tips include: ● Cleaning gutters and removing debris ● Sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls ● Inspecting wood piles and compost areas ● Monitoring early signs of termite activity Pro Tip: Conduct a termite inspection or a professional evaluation to catch infestations early before they spread. Summer: Peak Pest Season Warm temperatures accelerate pest breeding cycles. For a comprehensive summer pest prevention guide: ● Maintain lawns and trim vegetation away from homes ● Check window and door screens for tears ● Store food in sealed containers ● Inspect water sources that attract mosquitoes Do You Know? Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a teaspoon of water. Eliminating stagnant water is crucial to reducing their population. Fall: Preparing for Winter As temperatures drop, pests search for warm indoor spaces. Key actions include: ● Inspecting for winter rodent entry points ● Sealing attic vents, crawl spaces, and foundation gaps ● Cleaning storage areas to minimize hiding spots ● Checking chimney and fireplace openings Quick Fact: Rodents can enter homes through openings as small as ¼ inch. Seasonal Pest Checklist for Homeowners Creating a structured seasonal pest checklist simplifies preventive measures and ensures nothing is overlooked. Season Key Actions Spring Inspect for termites, seal exterior gaps, clean gutters, and check compost Summer Repair screens, trim vegetation, remove standing water, and secure food Fall Seal entry points, inspect attic/crawlspace, clear debris, and prepare storage Winter Monitor indoor activity, keep firewood away from walls, and maintain traps Inspection & Maintenance Tips ● Schedule annual pest inspections by professional Virginia pest control consultation to detect hidden problems ● Keep a log of pest sightings and treatment dates ● Regularly replace weather stripping and caulk cracks Note: Even small preventive steps, when consistently applied, drastically reduce infestations. Common Pests and Their Seasonal Behaviors Understanding how different pests behave each season helps homeowners take timely action to protect their property. ● Ants and Termites: Ants emerge in spring seeking food, while termites become active and can damage wood unnoticed. Early detection is critical. ● Rodents and Mice: Fall and winter increase rodent intrusions. Block all entry points and keep food sealed. ● Mosquitoes and Flies: Summer creates the ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water and use physical barriers like nets. ● Spiders and Other Insects: Seasonal shifts cause spiders to move indoors. Regular vacuuming and decluttering reduce hiding spots. Eco-Friendly Prevention Methods ● Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth ● Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to reduce pest populations ● Plant pest-deterring plants near home boundaries, like marigolds or lavender Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Adopt an IPM approach by combining physical barriers, monitoring, and environmentally safe treatments. This minimizes chemical use while maintaining a pest-free home. Quote: “Prevention is the most effective form of pest control.” – National Pest Management Association Seasonal Pest Prevention Tools ● Snap traps and humane rodent traps ● Sticky traps for insects ● Outdoor perimeter sprays (eco-friendly) ● Moisture meters to detect early termite or mold problems Pro Tip: Keep tools organized and accessible to act quickly when pest activity is noticed. Planning: Annual Pest Calendar Month Recommended Action March-April Spring pest prevention tips: Inspect, seal, clean gutters June-July Summer pest prevention guide: Screens, standing water, food storage September Seasonal pest checklist: Seal entries, declutter, prep storage November Winter rodent entry points: Monitor indoors, maintain traps Key Takeaways ● Seasonal awareness prevents infestations and property damage ● Consistent inspections and maintenance are essential ● Simple eco-friendly measures can significantly reduce pests ● Use a structured checklist and calendar for effective prevention Conclusion Homeowners who stay proactive and follow spring pest prevention tips, along with year-round monitoring, ensure their properties remain safe and comfortable. Using a summer pest prevention guide, checking winter rodent entry points, and maintaining a seasonal pest checklist ensure your home remains safe and comfortable. Remember to combine inspections, physical barriers, and environmentally friendly methods for the best results. FAQs Q1: How often should I perform a termite inspection? A1: Conduct inspections annually, especially in spring, to detect early signs of termite activity and prevent extensive damage. Q2: Can pests enter my home during winter? A2: Yes, rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter indoors. Sealing entry points and monitoring for activity is crucial. Q3: What is the most effective eco-friendly method for pest prevention? A3: Using natural repellents, encouraging beneficial insects, and eliminating water sources effectively reduces pest populations without chemicals. Ensure your home is ready for every season. Schedule a professional Virginia pest control consultation or a termite inspection in Suffolk, VA, today and stay ahead of potential infestations.

Traditional Thai homes are usually built as a cluster of physically separated rooms arranged around a large central terrace. Interpreting the traditional typology of the Thai houses, the Residence Navathani consists in two parallel wings, separated by a large garden and a swimming pool. The objective of the stone architecture is to give a sense of unity and blend the building with trees, plants and other natural landscape. Trees are often allowed to grow in the central area of the traditional Thai house with plants always featured prominently to create a strong relationship with nature. The choice of Thai travertine as the main stone for the building stems from the following objectives: first, the stone must display a strong natural character with contrasting color hues and crystalline veins, which contribute to blending the architecture into the landscape. Second, the design of the stone provides a sense of unity to the building. The façade of each wing displays an array of columns of various widths and spacings and there is an alignment of the columns between the two wings. The texture is rough on the outside face of the columns and honed on the sides as it continues through the window to the inside of the house. The two wings are connected by a long screen wall that separates the drop-off area from the private areas. This wall is pierced with square openings which helps to show a relationship between the two areas. The façade facing the entrance features stone in contrasting but related ways: the right hand wing is clad with honed stone on top of a large window, while the opposite wing displays a chiseled stone wall on the bottom with a large window on top. The architecture extends to the outside of the right-hand wing with a private theater of a modern contemporary design. The stone featured on the façade changes to a minimalist grey basalt while continuing the column concept with the alternate textures grooved on the facing and honed on the sides.

Curtis and Peggy had been thinking of a kitchen remodel for quite some time, but they knew their house would have a unique set of challenges. Their older Victorian house was built in 1891. The kitchen cabinetry was original, and they wanted to keep the authenticity of their period home while adding modern comforts that would improve their quality of life. A friend recommended Advance Design Studio for their exceptional experience and quality of work. After meeting with designer Michelle Lecinski at Advance Design, they were confident they could partner with Advance to accomplish the unique kitchen renovation they’d been talking about for years. “We wanted to do the kitchen for a long, long time,” Curtis said. “(We asked ourselves) what are we actually going to do? How are we going to do this? And who are we going to find to do exactly what we want?” The goal for the project was to keep the home renovation and new kitchen feeling authentic to the time in which it was built. They desperately wanted the modern comforts that come with a larger refrigerator and the dishwasher that they never had! The old home was also a bit drafty so adding a fireplace, wall insulation and new windows became a priority. They very much wanted to create a comfortable hearth room adjacent to the kitchen, complete with old world brick. The original cabinetry had to go to make way for beautiful new kitchen cabinetry that appears as if it was a hundred years old, but with all the benefits of cutting-edge storage, self-closing drawers, and a brand-new look. “We just wanted to keep it old looking, but with some modern updates,” Peggy said. Dura Supreme Highland Cabinets with a Heritage Old World Painted Finish replaced the original 1891 cabinets. The hand-applied careful rubbed-off detailing makes these exquisite cabinets look as if they came from a far-gone era. Despite the small size of the kitchen, Peggy, Curtis and Michelle utilized every inch with custom cabinet sizes to increase storage capacity. The custom cabinets allowed for the addition of a 24” Fisher Paykel dishwasher with a concealing Dura Supreme door panel. Michelle was also able to work into the new design a larger 30” Fisher Paykel French refrigerator. “We made every ¼ inch count in this small space,” designer Michelle said. “Having the ability to custom size the cabinetry was the only way to achieve this.” “The kitchen essentially was designed around the Heartland Vintage range and oven,” says Michelle. A classic appliance that combines nostalgic beauty and craftsmanship for modern cooking, with nickel plated trim and elegantly shaped handles and legs; the not to miss range is a striking focal point of the entire room and an engaging conversation piece. Granite countertops in Kodiak Satin with subtle veining kept with the old-world style. The delicate porcelain La Vie Crackle Sonoma tile kitchen backsplash compliments the home’s style perfectly. A handcrafted passthrough designed to show off Peggy’s fine china was custom built by project carpenters Justin Davis and Jeff Dallain to physically and visually open the space. Additional storage was created in the custom panty room with Latte Edinburg cabinets, hand-made weathered wood shelving with authentic black iron brackets, and an intricate tin copper ceiling. Peggy and Curtis loved the idea of adding a Vermont stove to make the hearth-room not only functional, but a truly beckoning place to be. A stunning Bordeaux red Vermont Castings Stove with crisp black ventilation was chosen and combined with the authentic reclaimed Chicago brick wall. Advance’s talented carpenters custom-built elegant weathered shelves to house family memorabilia, installed carefully chosen barn sconces, and made the hearth room an inviting place to relax with a cup of coffee and a good book. “Peggy and Curtis’ project was so much fun to work on. Creating a space that looks and feels like it always belonged in this beautiful old Victorian home is a designer’s dream. To see the delight in their faces when they saw the design details coming together truly made it worth the time and effort that went into making the very compact kitchen space work”, said Michelle. “The result is an amazing custom kitchen, packed with functionality in every inch, nook and cranny!” exclaims Michelle. The renovation didn’t end with the kitchen. New Pella windows were added to help lessen the drafts. The removal of the original windows and trim necessitated the re-creation of hand-made corbels and trim details no longer available today. The talented carpenter team came to the rescue, crafting new pieces and masterfully finishing them as if they were always there. New custom gutters were formed and installed with a front entry rework necessary to accommodate the changes. The whole house functions better, but it still feels like the original 1891 home. “From start to finish it’s just a much better space than we used to have,” Peggy said. “Jeff and Justin were amazing.” Curtis added; “We were lucky to find Advance Design, because they really came through for us. I loved that they had everything in house, anything you needed to have done, they could do it”.