STORYWALL integrates traditional industrial techniques with new high-tech graphic systems, resulting on a perfect symbiosis between the traditional character of cork and state-of-the-art digital printed graphics. The designs engrave the wallcovering collection with themes that go from the very traditional Portuguese tile to the modern-day pixel. 100% post-industrial recycled natural cork Glued installation Waterbased lacquer finished 570x570x4 mm

Initially, we were tasked with improving the façade of this grand old Colonial Revival home. We researched the period and local details so that new work would be appropriate and seamless. The project included new front stairs and trellis, a reconfigured front entry to bring it back to its original state, rebuilding of the driveway, and new landscaping. We later did a full interior remodel to bring back the original beauty of the home and expand into the attic. Photography by Philip Kaake. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/colonial-grand-stair-attic/

Down by the sea describes this setting. Novawood thermally modified wood was used in this exclusive resort project. Makes you want to pack your bags!
Deck - tropical deck idea in Toronto

I recently went to survey a floor in Harrogate which I immediately recognised as beige Moleanos Limestone which comes from Portugal. If you have been reading my previous posts you will remember I am not a fan of this type of stone as it is very difficult to clean, polish or seal. This particular floor was laid around 5 years prior and was now looking quite dull and was in need of reviving. The client didn’t want to spend much so l suggested l could spray burnish the floor to get her shine back again and remove the splash marks. We do this a lot for owners of polished stone floors as part of an annual maintenance package, it is a low cost option that uses a very fine 3,000 grit burnishing pad to renovate the stone and bring up the shine. However, I pointed out to her that this process wouldn’t clean her grout which was making her floor look scruffy. I priced up the different options and after weighing up the quotes I’m pleased to say she decided to go for a full clean and seal. The full process involves the use of different grades of diamond encrusted burnishing pads from low to very fine grits to renovate the Limestone and also a chemical clean of the grout followed by a fresh seal. I returned on the scheduled date and after preparing the floor I started cleaning the Limestone by running over the tiles with a 400-grit coarse burnishing pad lubricated with water. The soil was rinsed off with more water and extracted with a wet vacuum. This process was repeated with the 800 and 1500-grit pads which starts to build-up the polish on the stone. I then turned my attention to the grout with a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Pro-Clean which was left to soak into the grout for ten minutes before scrubbing it by hand with a stiff brush. After a final rinse and extraction with the wet vacuum the tile and grout were looking much cleaner and was left to dry off overnight. On Day 2 I stated with the application of the 3,000-grit pad which is the last step in the polishing processed and builds up a lovely satin finish on the stone floor. This is done using only a little water and is basically the spray burnish technique I referred to earlier. This process has the added advantage of leaving the floor dry. With the stone tiles looking lovely and the grout clean the last step was to seal it all in and protect it from dirt and future staining with the application of a sealer. For this I used two coats of Tile Doctor Ultra Seal. My client was very pleased she had spent the extra money to achieve the floor she had always wanted, apparently it had never looked this good even when new. We discussed the annual maintenance plan to ensure the floor remained looking this good. Nigel Stoker North West Yorkshire TIle Doctor

Extraordinary Chinese Antique Doors ( Late Qing Dynasty ). Set of 4. Material: Fir; Origin: Zhejiang province; Size ( cm ): L 52, W 6, H 320 GREEN ANTIQUES holds one of the largest collections of Chinese antique doors in the world, including literally thousands of sets of antique Chinese folding screens, room dividers, temple doors, courtyard entrance gates, courtyard doors, village gates, entrance doors, interior doors and every other shape and style of door imaginable. GREEN ANTIQUES is one of China's largest antiques shop, with a 100,000 sq.ft. showroom containing thousands of Chinese antique cabinets; interior and exterior courtyard doors; windows; carvings; tables; chairs; beds; wood and stone Buddhist, Taoist, Animist, and other statues; corbels, ceilings, beams and other architectural elements; horse carts; stone hitching posts; ancestor portraits and Buddhist / Taoist paintings; ancient shrines, thrones and wedding palanquins; antique embroidery, purses and hats from many of the 56 minority tribes of China; and a large collection of boxes, baskets, chests, pots, vases and other items. The GREEN ANTIQUES design and development team have designed, built and remodeled dozens of high end homes in China and the United States, each and every one loaded with antique Chinese architectural elements, statues and furniture. They would be happy to help you to achieve your design goals.

Extraordinary Chinese Antique Doors ( Late Qing Dynasty ). Set of 4. Material: Fir; Origin: Zhejiang province; Size ( cm ): L 52, W 6, H 320 GREEN ANTIQUES holds one of the largest collections of Chinese antique doors in the world, including literally thousands of sets of antique Chinese folding screens, room dividers, temple doors, courtyard entrance gates, courtyard doors, village gates, entrance doors, interior doors and every other shape and style of door imaginable. GREEN ANTIQUES is one of China's largest antiques shop, with a 100,000 sq.ft. showroom containing thousands of Chinese antique cabinets; interior and exterior courtyard doors; windows; carvings; tables; chairs; beds; wood and stone Buddhist, Taoist, Animist, and other statues; corbels, ceilings, beams and other architectural elements; horse carts; stone hitching posts; ancestor portraits and Buddhist / Taoist paintings; ancient shrines, thrones and wedding palanquins; antique embroidery, purses and hats from many of the 56 minority tribes of China; and a large collection of boxes, baskets, chests, pots, vases and other items. The GREEN ANTIQUES design and development team have designed, built and remodeled dozens of high end homes in China and the United States, each and every one loaded with antique Chinese architectural elements, statues and furniture. They would be happy to help you to achieve your design goals.

1970's colonial home along Aaron River Reservoir and near Wompotuk State Park. First floor kitchen remodel overhaul.
Eat-in kitchen - large transitional l-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen idea in Boston with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

STORYWALL integrates traditional industrial techniques with new high-tech graphic systems, resulting on a perfect symbiosis between the traditional character of cork and state-of-the-art digital printed graphics. The designs engrave the wallcovering collection with themes that go from the very traditional Portuguese tile to the modern-day pixel. 100% post-industrial recycled natural cork Glued installation Waterbased lacquer finished 570x570x4 mm

Initially, we were tasked with improving the façade of this grand old Colonial Revival home. We researched the period and local details so that new work would be appropriate and seamless. The project included new front stairs and trellis, a reconfigured front entry to bring it back to its original state, rebuilding of the driveway, and new landscaping. We later did a full interior remodel to bring back the original beauty of the home and expand into the attic. Photography by Philip Kaake. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/colonial-grand-stair-attic/

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures.

Initially, we were tasked with improving the façade of this grand old Colonial Revival home. We researched the period and local details so that new work would be appropriate and seamless. The project included new front stairs and trellis, a reconfigured front entry to bring it back to its original state, rebuilding of the driveway, and new landscaping. We later did a full interior remodel to bring back the original beauty of the home and expand into the attic. Photography by Philip Kaake. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/colonial-grand-stair-attic/

GREEN ANTIQUES holds one of the largest collections of Chinese antique statues in the world, including literally thousands of antique Chinese statues, Buddha statues, Taoist statues, sprite statues, Chinese god statues, hero statues, chairman Mao statues, wooden statues, carved stone statues and all kinds extraordinary and unique of statues imaginable. GREEN ANTIQUES is one of China's largest antiques shop, with a 100,000 sq.ft. showroom containing thousands of Chinese antique cabinets; interior and exterior courtyard doors; windows; carvings; tables; chairs; beds; wood and stone Buddhist, Taoist, Animist, and other statues; corbels, ceilings, beams and other architectural elements; horse carts; stone hitching posts; ancestor portraits and Buddhist / Taoist paintings; ancient shrines, thrones and wedding palanquins; antique embroidery, purses and hats from many of the 56 minority tribes of China; and a large collection of boxes, baskets, chests, pots, vases and other items. The GREEN ANTIQUES design and development team have designed, built and remodeled dozens of high end homes in China and the United States, each and every one loaded with antique Chinese architectural elements, statues and furniture. They would be happy to help you to achieve your design goals.

GREEN ANTIQUES holds one of the largest collections of Chinese antique statues in the world, including literally thousands of antique Chinese statues, Buddha statues, Taoist statues, sprite statues, Chinese god statues, hero statues, chairman Mao statues, wooden statues, carved stone statues and all kinds extraordinary and unique of statues imaginable. GREEN ANTIQUES is one of China's largest antiques shop, with a 100,000 sq.ft. showroom containing thousands of Chinese antique cabinets; interior and exterior courtyard doors; windows; carvings; tables; chairs; beds; wood and stone Buddhist, Taoist, Animist, and other statues; corbels, ceilings, beams and other architectural elements; horse carts; stone hitching posts; ancestor portraits and Buddhist / Taoist paintings; ancient shrines, thrones and wedding palanquins; antique embroidery, purses and hats from many of the 56 minority tribes of China; and a large collection of boxes, baskets, chests, pots, vases and other items. The GREEN ANTIQUES design and development team have designed, built and remodeled dozens of high end homes in China and the United States, each and every one loaded with antique Chinese architectural elements, statues and furniture. They would be happy to help you to achieve your design goals.

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures.

Custom Curved Wooden Slides by Top Tread Stairways ~ Transform Your Home Into Something Extraordinary Custom Curved Wooden Slides When was the Last Time Someone Walked Into Your Home and Their Jaw Literally Dropped? When was the last time someone walked into your home and their jaw literally dropped? Picture this: Your guests arrive for dinner. They step into your foyer, and suddenly—silence. Wide eyes. A moment of pure disbelief. Then, inevitably, the question: “Is that really what I think it is?” Welcome to the world of custom curved wooden slides, where Top Tread Stairways turns childhood dreams into sophisticated architectural statements. The Secret is Out For years, Clyde Martin and his team at Top Tread Stairways in Sierra Vista, Arizona, have been quietly building something extraordinary. While most stair companies focus on traditional projects, TopTread Stairways has been perfecting the art of custom hardwood slides—creating installations so remarkable that we joke about renaming the business “Chutes and Ladders.” The truth? These aren’t just slides. They’re conversation pieces. Works of functional art. The kind of architectural element that sets your home apart from every other one on the planet. And we build so many of them that we’ve shipped custom slides all over North America and beyond. Four Ways to Make Your Home Unforgettable Every slide project we undertake is unique, but they generally fall into four categories: 1. Curved Stair-Slide Combinations – The ultimate space-efficient solution, where stairs and slide spiral together in a stunning combination of form and function. 2. Curved Slides Separate from Stairways – For those who want the drama of a standalone curved slide that makes its own architectural statement. 3. Straight Stair-Slide Combinations – Perfect for modern, linear spaces where clean lines meet playful innovation. 4. Straight Slides Separate from Stairways – Sometimes simplicity creates the most powerful impact. But here’s where it gets interesting: Some slides feature flat seat areas with vertical sides. Others embrace a barrel shape for enhanced comfort. We’ve built slides wide enough for several people to descend shoulder-to-shoulder, laughing all the way down. And we’ve crafted intimate slides designed for solo adventures, regardless of age or size. Our clients? They absolutely love them. Stories That Will Make You Rethink What’s Possible Take the 11,000-square-foot home in Beverly Hills, overlooking the famous Sunset Strip. In one child’s bedroom, we installed a 12-foot curved slide crafted from white oak. Understated location, extraordinary feature. Or consider the 35-foot-high round tower room in an 8,500-square-foot custom home bordering the Sacramento River in Northern California. This project has become our most famous installation—a stunning 33-foot curved stair-slide combination built entirely from solid black walnut, featuring 445 layers of cross-laminated hardwood and a spiral newel post that took eight months to construct in our shop. The homeowners had searched for eight years to find someone “crazy enough” to build their dream. When we completed it, one of Clyde’s trusted business partners—someone who’d seen him tackle countless unique projects—admitted he thought Clyde had lost his mind taking this one on. He genuinely didn’t believe we could pull it off. We did. And the homeowners? Still thrilled years later. Where Imagination Meets Reality But these slides aren’t just for private estates. We’ve installed a 24-foot hickory slide in an elementary school library just east of Dallas, where kids absolutely love it. And here’s something that will make you smile: We built the longest wood slide ever for a children’s hospital in Springfield, Illinois. Have you ever heard a child beg to go to the doctor? We’re pretty sure it happens in Springfield. That walnut slide stretches 45 feet long and 3 feet wide—spacious enough for three children to sit side-by-side or for an adult and child to slide together comfortably. We built it in one piece, filling an entire semi-trailer for transport. It lives in the hospital lobby, and no appointment is needed to experience it yourself. In Raleigh, North Carolina, we installed a 36-foot white oak slide in a custom home. The client loved it so much they ordered a second one—literally 15 minutes after we finished the installation. When Clyde returned to the office, there was already a check in the mailbox for slide number two. This 14,000-square-foot home now features 72 linear feet of curved white oak slide: one connecting the second floor to the main level, another linking the main floor to the finished basement. What a ride, indeed. Then there’s the curved stair-slide combination in Visalia, California—32 feet of knotty alder complemented by a hanging netted loft and climbing wall. Creative? Absolutely. Fun? Beyond measure. The People Behind the Dreams What inspires us most isn’t the technical challenge of building these slides—though engineering a 33-foot curved slide from 445 layers of cross-laminated hardwood certainly keeps us engaged. It’s working with clients who refuse to think inside the box. These are creative individuals willing to explore ideas that set their homes and businesses apart. They dream of installations that make people stop and stare. They understand that architecture can—and should—inspire joy. Listening to them describe their visions, explaining their dreams of a slide design unlike anything else on earth? That’s a privilege. And bringing those dreams to life? That’s what we live for. My team and I have as much fun designing and building these slides as our clients have riding them. We’d love nothing better than to hear from you! Custom Curved Wooden Slides What Sets Top Tread Stairways Apart Since 2006, Clyde Martin has built Top Tread Stairways on a simple premise: there’s a better way to build stairs. With roots in eastern Pennsylvania and years of experience installing hundreds of pre-built stairways, Clyde brought that expertise west and founded a company dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship. We stock thousands of stair parts in more than ten wood species—hickory, jatoba, maple, cherry, mahogany, alder, red oak, white oak, poplar, Douglas fir, and walnut. Quality levels are high. Lead times are short. We understand the urgency of your project schedule and deliver accordingly. But here’s what really matters: When it comes to custom wooden slides, Top Tread Stairways is one of—if not the—premier builders of indoor wooden slides in the United States. This isn’t a side project for us. It’s a specialty we’ve refined through years of experience, countless installations, and an unwavering commitment to turning impossible dreams into breathtaking reality. Your Home, Reimagined Whether you’re envisioning a straight wooden stand-alone slide for your office or a jaw-dropping curved wooden slide/stairway combination that will become your home’s signature feature, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not here to build ordinary. We’re here to build extraordinary. Ready to set your home apart? ~ Custom Curved Wooden Slides ~ ART YOU RIDE!

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures.

1970's colonial home along Aaron River Reservoir and near Wompotuk State Park. First floor kitchen remodel overhaul. Photography by Brain Doherty
Large transitional l-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen photo in Boston with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Down by the sea describes this setting. Novawood thermally modified wood was used in this exclusive resort project. Makes you want to pack your bags!
Island style sunroom photo in Toronto

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures. The Galley Dresser prep sink thinks of all attachments and necessities possible for the ultimate entertaining.