In this project, our clients purchased an existing restaurant fraught with stormwater management issues on the property. Runoff from an adjacent state highway and parking lot regularly flooded the kitchen. Additionally, a man-made pond on the property had become a problematic breeding ground for mosquitos that virtually prohibited outdoor dining during the summer. Both challenges restricted the restaurant from operating at its fullest potential. Our design/build team’s goals were to address the water runoff and mosquito issues using environmentally and financially sustainable practices. Lowering the grades around the building and parking, we were able to direct the runoff into a dry streambed enriched with water-worn cobbles and river stones and planted banks. We addressed the mosquito problem by increasing the pond’s depth, adding an aeration system, and planting the banks with wildflowers. By raising the outdoor dining, guests now overlook the pond and pleasing landscape. Natural breezes at this higher level help alleviate mosquitosl.

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

About: Abandoned two years ago by a previous contractor, and overwhelmed by the challenges associated with building an updated porch respectful to this Queen Anne style home, J. Francis Company, LLC was referred to the customer by Maynes & Associates, Architects. Perched at the highest point on the North Side with a panoramic view is where Deb Mortillaro and Mike Gonze make their residence. Owners of the famous Dreadnought Wines and Palate Partners in the Strip District of Pittsburgh, Deb & Mike wanted a porch to use for entertaining & wine tasting parties. Design features include reuse of original porch footers, mahogany tongue & groove flooring, a railing system that compliments the original design yet complies with the code and features a clear coated Cyprus top rail. The original porch columns were most likely stone bases with wood posts that have been replaced with columns to enhance the updated look. The curved corner has been reproduced including a custom-built curved handrail. The whole porch comes together, tying in the red mahogany floor, Cyprus handrail, and stained bead board ceiling. The finished result is a breathtakingly beautiful wrap-around porch with ample room for guests and entertaining. Testimonial: "Our beloved porch had been taken down to be rebuilt for two years before we met the great folks at J. Francis Company. We knew this porch had great potential and all it would take was the right people to make it happen - ones with vision and great craftsmanship. In conjunction with our architect, Greg Maynes, Dave Myers of J. Francis Company guided this project along with tremendous skill and patience. His creative suggestions and practical thought made the process painless and exciting. The head carpenter JK was a marvel and added touches that made a spectacular difference. We use our home and especially this porch to entertain both clients and friends throughout the year. They all have been anxiously waiting to hear that it is done. A pleasant surprise will be theirs when they arrive."

Explore this revitalized backyard oasis in Washington, DC, where overgrown grass, weeds, and greenery once dominated the space. Faced with the challenge of maximizing every inch in this limited area, our goal was to reclaim and transform. The result: a thoughtful design featuring a custom fence for privacy and aesthetics, a space-saving bike shed, and a cozy bench surrounded by mosquito-repellent plants. Witness the metamorphosis of this once-overgrown haven into a harmonious blend of functionality and style—a transformed retreat where space is utilized to its fullest potential.

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

Designed by Jen Denham of Reico Kitchen & Bath in White Plains, MD in collaboration with Potomac Home Improvement, this casual feeling transitional style kitchen with features Merillat Classic cabinets in the Rowan with 5-piece drawer front door style in a Chiffon finish. Kitchen countertops are Granite White Ice. The kitchen also includes a tile backsplash in Bliss Linear Glass Waterfall. “Jen and the crew at Reico transformed the look of our house with the kitchen redesign. Reico opened up the room and more than doubled our cabinet space,” said the client. “We love the pullout drawers on the pantry and will never lack for storage space again. Not a day goes by where one of us doesn’t say I love our kitchen.” “The clients were so sweet to work with, they were really open to ideas and had exciting ideas on bringing color to the kitchen,” said Jen. “The house had plenty of unused potential for more cabinet space. The challenge was trying to make it look like it made sense with the rest of the house and was still functional. Getting more storage for food was a must. We were able to add a tall pantry cabinet and tons of more useful countertop space for all of their appliances.” Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

Following the purchase of this beautiful home, we were brought on to create living spaces tailored to the needs it's new occupants and provide a much needed update. This included the kitchen, common areas, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, paint, new floors, countertops, and more. Working around a price sensitive budget for this home's full renovation was a nice challenge and our biggest accomplishment. It was essential for the finished product to be high-end, while maintaining it's functionality and durability for years to come. We accomplished this with lots research to find the same high-quality materials at the best price points, as well as alternative products of equal quality and design impact. What was once an outdated house falling short of its immense potential has since been transformed into a beautiful home perfect for both living and entertaining.

Believe it or not, this award-winning home began as a speculative project. Typically speculative projects involve a rather generic design that would appeal to many in a style that might be loved by the masses. But the project’s developer loved modern architecture and his personal residence was the first project designed by architect C.P. Drewett when Drewett Works launched in 2001. Together, the architect and developer envisioned a fictitious art collector who would one day purchase this stunning piece of desert modern architecture to showcase their magnificent collection. The primary views from the site were southwest. Therefore, protecting the interior spaces from the southwest sun while making the primary views available was the greatest challenge. The views were very calculated and carefully managed. Every room needed to not only capture the vistas of the surrounding desert, but also provide viewing spaces for the potential collection to be housed within its walls. The core of the material palette is utilitarian including exposed masonry and locally quarried cantera stone. An organic nature was added to the project through millwork selections including walnut and red gum veneers. The eventual owners saw immediately that this could indeed become a home for them as well as their magnificent collection, of which pieces are loaned out to museums around the world. Their decision to purchase the home was based on the dimensions of one particular wall in the dining room which was EXACTLY large enough for one particular painting not yet displayed due to its size. The owners and this home were, as the saying goes, a perfect match! Project Details | Desert Modern for the Magnificent Collection, Estancia, Scottsdale, AZ Architecture: C.P. Drewett, Jr., AIA, NCARB | Drewett Works, Scottsdale, AZ Builder: Shannon Construction | Phoenix, AZ Interior Selections: Janet Bilotti, NCIDQ, ASID | Naples, FL Custom Millwork: Linear Fine Woodworking | Scottsdale, AZ Photography: Dino Tonn | Scottsdale, AZ Awards: 2014 Gold Nugget Award of Merit Feature Article: Luxe. Interiors and Design. Winter 2015, “Lofty Exposure”

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset. The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu . Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home. The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south. Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape. The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature. Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design. Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view. Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward. Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan Structural Engineer: ZFA Contractor: Maison D’Artiste Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2023

Our clients immediately recognized the potential of the home located in a highly sought-after section of Allentown. The dated kitchen needed significant rethinking but our clients knew it could be turned into something beautiful and inspiring. And, indeed, they were right. Busy professionals with an active social life, our clients wanted an inviting space to host both intimate dinner parties and large social gatherings. With this in mind, we worked to reimagine the flow of traffic from one room to another. Extraneous walls and a desk inconveniently positioned in the middle of the main kitchen thoroughfare needed to be removed and tight workspace aisles and narrow passageways demanded widening to help alleviate the problem. In addition to the kitchen’s flow concerns, the dark and dated space needed brightening. The wall between the kitchen and family room was opened up to unite the two spaces allowing more light into both rooms. Windows were also added at the sink wall so the room could be flooded with bright morning sun, while also offering a beautiful view of the park below. All-white cabinetry was selected to help reflect the additional light. An unfortunate challenge of expanding the windows meant there were fewer wall cabinets to store dishes. We turned to the island where we installed large dish drawers featuring wood pegged interiors. We also relied on wall-to-counter cabinets for additional storage to help keep the room clutter-free as appliances were neatly tucked behind doors. A new, built-in pantry was also added. The finished kitchen unites traditional with today and elegance with comfort to ensure perfection. We are thrilled for our clients who have an abundance of good taste, an eye for what is possible and a drive to see it accomplished. Jacqueline Powell Photography

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it. A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel. Design Objectives: -Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions -Make the shower larger and more open -Use luxurious materials throughout -Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items -Incorporate luxury shower fixtures -Include the latest technology Design Challenges -Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub -Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used -Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design -Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system -Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up -Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes -Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile Design solutions: -A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower -Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower -A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower -The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic -Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

About: Abandoned two years ago by a previous contractor, and overwhelmed by the challenges associated with building an updated porch respectful to this Queen Anne style home, J. Francis Company, LLC was referred to the customer by Maynes & Associates, Architects. Perched at the highest point on the North Side with a panoramic view is where Deb Mortillaro and Mike Gonze make their residence. Owners of the famous Dreadnought Wines and Palate Partners in the Strip District of Pittsburgh, Deb & Mike wanted a porch to use for entertaining & wine tasting parties. Design features include reuse of original porch footers, mahogany tongue & groove flooring, a railing system that compliments the original design yet complies with the code and features a clear coated Cyprus top rail. The original porch columns were most likely stone bases with wood posts that have been replaced with columns to enhance the updated look. The curved corner has been reproduced including a custom-built curved handrail. The whole porch comes together, tying in the red mahogany floor, Cyprus handrail, and stained bead board ceiling. The finished result is a breathtakingly beautiful wrap-around porch with ample room for guests and entertaining. Testimonial: "Our beloved porch had been taken down to be rebuilt for two years before we met the great folks at J. Francis Company. We knew this porch had great potential and all it would take was the right people to make it happen - ones with vision and great craftsmanship. In conjunction with our architect, Greg Maynes, Dave Myers of J. Francis Company guided this project along with tremendous skill and patience. His creative suggestions and practical thought made the process painless and exciting. The head carpenter JK was a marvel and added touches that made a spectacular difference. We use our home and especially this porch to entertain both clients and friends throughout the year. They all have been anxiously waiting to hear that it is done. A pleasant surprise will be theirs when they arrive."

This new, ground-up home was recently built atop the Richmond Hills. Despite the beautiful site with its panoramic 270-degree view, the lot had been left undeveloped over the years due to its modest size and challenging approval issues. Saikley Architects handled the negotiations for County approvals, and worked closely with the owner-builder to create a 2,300 sq. ft., three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath family home that maximizes the site’s potential. The first-time owner-builder is a landscape builder by trade, and Saikley Architects coordinated closely with for him on this spec home. Saikley Architects provided building design details which the owner then carried through in many unique interior design and furniture design details throughout the house. Photo by Chi Chin Photography. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/hilltop-contemporary/

Are you looking to remodel your kitchen, build out a breathtaking garage or add home additions? If you are, JNJ Homes LLC is who you want to get in touch with. Their captivating designs and professional craftsmanship serve as a testament to hard work, dedication and expertise of the highest magnitude. JNJ formed as a collaborative effort between two men (Jason and Chase), who were both making a name for themselves within the world of construction. The duo paired up in 2016 and aimed to serve as the gold-standard for high-level construction and design in the Chattanooga area. Their satisfied clients and return customers act as the seal of approval for individuals that want to expand their homes. While JNJ Homes LLC is up for any challenge that a potential client might have for them, here's where their expertise and skill shine the most: Interior remodeling Exterior kitchen remodel Residential designs Basement finishes Garage builder services Bathroom remodel and implementation If you're ready to get started with your dream remodel or construction, contact JNJ Homes LLC. Remember: The journey towards your beautiful home starts today!

White Kitchen Cabinets: Timeless Elegance for Modern Homes White kitchen cabinets are more than just a design choice; they're a testament to timeless elegance and adaptability in the heart of any home. As homeowners continue to seek spaces that feel airy, clean, and spacious, white cabinets have emerged as a top choice for both modern and traditional kitchens alike. Why Choose White Kitchen Cabinets? Versatility: The neutral hue of white allows these cabinets to blend seamlessly with any color palette or kitchen design. Whether you're aiming for a sleek modern look or a cozy cottage vibe, white cabinets can be the perfect canvas to achieve your desired aesthetic. Brightness and Space: White reflects light beautifully, making your kitchen appear larger and more open. It's especially beneficial for smaller spaces, where creating an illusion of a more expansive area is crucial. Timeless Appeal: While trends come and go, white has an enduring appeal. It exudes a sense of cleanliness and simplicity, making it a long-lasting choice for homeowners. Resale Value: If you ever consider selling your home, white kitchen cabinets can boost your property's appeal to potential buyers, ensuring that your kitchen remains stylish and up-to-date. Pairing with Other Elements The adaptability of white kitchen cabinets means you can play with various colors and textures. Whether it's a vibrant backsplash, granite countertops, or wooden flooring, the neutrality of white ensures that everything comes together harmoniously. Maintenance and Durability A common misconception is that white cabinets can be challenging to maintain. However, with today's advancements in paint and finishes, white kitchen cabinets are resistant to stains and easy to clean. Furthermore, any marks or stains are quickly spotted, ensuring that you can address them promptly, keeping your cabinets in pristine condition. Conclusion White kitchen cabinets are not just a fleeting trend. Their unmatched versatility, the spacious feel they bring to any kitchen, and their timeless beauty make them an excellent choice for homeowners. Whether you're renovating your kitchen or designing a new one, consider the elegance and adaptability that white cabinets can bring to your space. With proper care and the right design elements, your white kitchen can be a showstopper for years to come.

Are you looking to remodel your kitchen, build out a breathtaking garage or add home additions? If you are, JNJ Homes LLC is who you want to get in touch with. Their captivating designs and professional craftsmanship serve as a testament to hard work, dedication and expertise of the highest magnitude. JNJ formed as a collaborative effort between two men (Jason and Chase), who were both making a name for themselves within the world of construction. The duo paired up in 2016 and aimed to serve as the gold-standard for high-level construction and design in the Chattanooga area. Their satisfied clients and return customers act as the seal of approval for individuals that want to expand their homes. While JNJ Homes LLC is up for any challenge that a potential client might have for them, here's where their expertise and skill shine the most: Interior remodeling Exterior kitchen remodel Residential designs Basement finishes Garage builder services Bathroom remodel and implementation If you're ready to get started with your dream remodel or construction, contact JNJ Homes LLC. Remember: The journey towards your beautiful home starts today!

Photos by ©ThompsonPhotographic.com 2019 A passion for the Southwest inspires one couple to turn their garden into a vibrant showcase for Sonoran Desert flora. By Nancy Erdmann | Photography by Steve Thompson For someone who loves to garden and has done so in many areas of the U.S., taking on the challenge of a rocky, boulder-strewn hillside lot in the Sonoran Desert is something that Carey Bertsch relishes. “I was born in Scotland but grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. My husband, Robin, is from Indiana. We have always loved everything about the Southwest. The sunny, arid climate; the lifestyle; the flora; the fauna—they all resonate with us,” she remarks. As such, the couple, who are based in Colorado, decided to purchase a part-time residence in Arizona. They found a Santa Fe Territorial-style home that’s tucked into the base of a steep slope in North Scottsdale’s Estancia community. Populated with natural boulder outcroppings, the property’s landscape was rudimentary at best. “But we saw the potential and knew it could be so much more,” recalls Carey. She and her husband lived in the house for several years before making any major changes; they recently completed a total exterior remodel.

Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.” While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting. Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence. The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white. Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world. We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline. Scale 0.47 ACRES Scope HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN Year 2025 Photography Studio PYG Architecture Renovation Bravo Architecture Interior Design Miriam Moore Design Studio Landscape Architecture LandFluent General Contractor Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida Landscape Contractor Signature Trees & Palms Lighting Design / Contractor PCL Lighting

Are you looking to remodel your kitchen, build out a breathtaking garage or add home additions? If you are, JNJ Homes LLC is who you want to get in touch with. Their captivating designs and professional craftsmanship serve as a testament to hard work, dedication and expertise of the highest magnitude. JNJ formed as a collaborative effort between two men (Jason and Chase), who were both making a name for themselves within the world of construction. The duo paired up in 2016 and aimed to serve as the gold-standard for high-level construction and design in the Chattanooga area. Their satisfied clients and return customers act as the seal of approval for individuals that want to expand their homes. While JNJ Homes LLC is up for any challenge that a potential client might have for them, here's where their expertise and skill shine the most: Interior remodeling Exterior kitchen remodel Residential designs Basement finishes Garage builder services Bathroom remodel and implementation If you're ready to get started with your dream remodel or construction, contact JNJ Homes LLC. Remember: The journey towards your beautiful home starts today!