Oakley Home Builders is a custom home builder and remodeling company in the Chicago suburbs that has integrated distinctive home designs into surrounding communities, neighborhoods and coveted residential landscapes. Positioned as a flourishing Chicago western suburbs home builder, Oakley Home Builders demonstrates a passionate pursuit of detail-rich, value-driven design and efficient construction that provides homebuyers with a masterfully planned and executed living environment. Whether building on your site or one of our many available lots, Oakley Home Builders is recognized among Chicago western suburbs home builders for its excellent build-to-suit program. Guiding homebuyers through a simple, step-by-step process, we enhance the building experience by providing practical advice, flexible accommodations, and educational insight. But while we are mainly a home builder in Chicago suburbs, we also build luxurious beach homes in Naples, FL and along the shores of Lake Michigan in Indiana and Michigan's Harbor Country. In addition we serve as an expert suburban Chicago remodeling company catering to the communities of Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, LaGrange, Western Springs, Elmhurst, and other west suburban locations.

A TOUCHDOWN BY DESIGN Interior design by Jennifer Corredor, J Design Group, Coral Gables, Florida Text by Christine Davis Photography by Daniel Newcomb, Palm Beach Gardens, FL What did Detroit Lions linebacker, Stephen Tulloch, do when he needed a decorator for his new Miami 10,000-square-foot home? He tackled the situation by hiring interior designer Jennifer Corredor. Never defensive, he let her have run of the field. “He’d say, ‘Jen, do your thing,’” she says. And she did it well. The first order of the day was to get a lay of the land and a feel for what he wanted. For his primary residence, Tulloch chose a home in Pinecrest, Florida. — a great family neighborhood known for its schools and ample lot sizes. “His lot is huge,” Corredor says. “He could practice his game there if he wanted.” A laidback feeling permeates the suburban village, where mostly Mediterranean homes intermix with a few modern styles. With views toward the pool and a landscaped yard, Tulloch’s 10,000-square-foot home touches on both, a Mediterranean exterior with chic contemporary interiors. Step inside, where high ceilings and a sculptural stairway with oak treads and linear spindles immediately capture the eye. “Knowing he was more inclined toward an uncluttered look, and taking into consideration his age and lifestyle, I naturally took the path of choosing more modern furnishings,” the designer says. In the dining room, Tulloch specifically asked for a round table and Corredor found “Xilos Simplice” by Maxalto, a table that seats six to eight and has a Lazy Susan. And just past the stairway, two armless chairs from Calligaris and a semi-round sofa shape the living room. In keeping with Tulloch’s desire for a simple no-fuss lifestyle, leather is often used for upholstery. “He preferred wipe-able areas,” she says. “Nearly everything in the living room is clad in leather.” An architecturally striking, oak-coffered ceiling warms the family room, while Saturnia marble flooring grounds the space in cool comfort. “Since it’s just off the kitchen, this relaxed space provides the perfect place for family and friends to congregate — somewhere to hang out,” Corredor says. The deep-seated sofa wrapped in tan leather and Minotti armchairs in white join a pair of linen-clad ottomans for ample seating. With eight bedrooms in the home, there was “plenty of space to repurpose,” Corredor says. “Five are used for sleeping quarters, but the others have been converted into a billiard room, a home office and the memorabilia room.” On the first floor, the billiard room is set for fun and entertainment with doors that open to the pool area. The memorabilia room presented quite a challenge. Undaunted, Corredor delved into a seemingly never-ending collection of mementos to create a tribute to Tulloch’s career. “His team colors are blue and white, so we used those colors in this space,” she says. In a nod to Tulloch’s career on and off the field, his home office displays awards, recognition plaques and photos from his foundation. A Copenhagen desk, Herman Miller chair and leather-topped credenza further an aura of masculinity. All about relaxation, the master bedroom would not be complete without its own sitting area for viewing sports updates or late-night movies. Here, lounge chairs recline to create the perfect spot for Tulloch to put his feet up and watch TV. “He wanted it to be really comfortable,” Corredor says A total redo was required in the master bath, where the now 12-foot-long shower is a far cry from those in a locker room. “This bath is more like a launching pad to get you going in the morning,” Corredor says. “All in all, it’s a fun, warm and beautiful environment,” the designer says. “I wanted to create something unique, that would make my client proud and happy.” In Tulloch’s world, that’s a touchdown. Your friendly Interior design firm in Miami at your service. Contemporary - Modern Interior designs. Top Interior Design Firm in Miami – Coral Gables. Office, Offices, Kitchen, Kitchens, Bedroom, Bedrooms, Bed, Queen bed, King Bed, Single bed, House Interior Designer, House Interior Designers, Home Interior Designer, Home Interior Designers, Residential Interior Designer, Residential Interior Designers, Modern Interior Designers, Miami Beach Designers, Best Miami Interior Designers, Miami Beach Interiors, Luxurious Design in Miami, Top designers, Deco Miami, Luxury interiors, Miami modern, Interior Designer Miami, Contemporary Interior Designers, Coco Plum Interior Designers, Miami Interior Designer, Sunny Isles Interior Designers, Pinecrest Interior Designers, Interior Designers Miami, J Design Group interiors, South Florida designers, Best Miami Designers, Miami interiors, Miami décor, Miami Beach Luxury Interiors, Miami Interior Design, Miami Interior Design Firms, Beach front, Top Interior Designers, top décor, Top Miami Decorators, Miami luxury condos, Top Miami Interior Decorators, Top Miami Interior Designers, Modern Designers in Miami, modern interiors, Modern, Pent house design, white interiors, Miami, South Miami, Miami Beach, South Beach, Williams Island, Sunny Isles, Surfside, Fisher Island, Aventura, Brickell, Brickell Key, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, CocoPlum, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, Miami Design District, Golden Beach, Downtown Miami, Miami Interior Designers, Miami Interior Designer, Interior Designers Miami, Modern Interior Designers, Modern Interior Designer, Modern interior decorators, Contemporary Interior Designers, Interior decorators, Interior decorator, Interior designer, Interior designers, Luxury, modern, best, unique, real estate, decor J Design Group – Miami Interior Design Firm – Modern – Contemporary Contact us: (305) 444-4611 http://www.JDesignGroup.com

Bathroom - coastal bathroom idea in Seattle

Embarking on a garage remodeling project is a transformative endeavor that can significantly enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the space. By investing in tailored storage solutions such as cabinets, wall-mounted organizers, and overhead racks, one can efficiently declutter the area and create a more organized storage system. Flooring upgrades, such as epoxy coatings or durable tiles, not only improve the garage's appearance but also provide a resilient surface. Adding custom workbenches or tool storage solutions contributes to a more efficient and user-friendly workspace. Additionally, incorporating proper lighting and ventilation ensures a well-lit and comfortable environment. A remodeled garage not only increases property value but also opens up possibilities for alternative uses, such as a home gym, workshop, or hobby space, making it a worthwhile investment for both practicality and lifestyle improvement.

Master Bath A multi-functional ottoman on rollers takes center stage in the master bath, where the 12-foot-long shower and a Serenity tub from Aquatic steal the show. Walls of mirror and Mont Blanc marble wrap the room in sheer elegance. A TOUCHDOWN BY DESIGN Interior design by Jennifer Corredor, J Design Group, Coral Gables, Florida Text by Christine Davis Photography by Daniel Newcomb, Palm Beach Gardens, FL What did Detroit Lions linebacker, Stephen Tulloch, do when he needed a decorator for his new Miami 10,000-square-foot home? He tackled the situation by hiring interior designer Jennifer Corredor. Never defensive, he let her have run of the field. “He’d say, ‘Jen, do your thing,’” she says. And she did it well. The first order of the day was to get a lay of the land and a feel for what he wanted. For his primary residence, Tulloch chose a home in Pinecrest, Florida. — a great family neighborhood known for its schools and ample lot sizes. “His lot is huge,” Corredor says. “He could practice his game there if he wanted.” A laidback feeling permeates the suburban village, where mostly Mediterranean homes intermix with a few modern styles. With views toward the pool and a landscaped yard, Tulloch’s 10,000-square-foot home touches on both, a Mediterranean exterior with chic contemporary interiors. Step inside, where high ceilings and a sculptural stairway with oak treads and linear spindles immediately capture the eye. “Knowing he was more inclined toward an uncluttered look, and taking into consideration his age and lifestyle, I naturally took the path of choosing more modern furnishings,” the designer says. In the dining room, Tulloch specifically asked for a round table and Corredor found “Xilos Simplice” by Maxalto, a table that seats six to eight and has a Lazy Susan. And just past the stairway, two armless chairs from Calligaris and a semi-round sofa shape the living room. In keeping with Tulloch’s desire for a simple no-fuss lifestyle, leather is often used for upholstery. “He preferred wipe-able areas,” she says. “Nearly everything in the living room is clad in leather.” An architecturally striking, oak-coffered ceiling warms the family room, while Saturnia marble flooring grounds the space in cool comfort. “Since it’s just off the kitchen, this relaxed space provides the perfect place for family and friends to congregate — somewhere to hang out,” Corredor says. The deep-seated sofa wrapped in tan leather and Minotti armchairs in white join a pair of linen-clad ottomans for ample seating. With eight bedrooms in the home, there was “plenty of space to repurpose,” Corredor says. “Five are used for sleeping quarters, but the others have been converted into a billiard room, a home office and the memorabilia room.” On the first floor, the billiard room is set for fun and entertainment with doors that open to the pool area. The memorabilia room presented quite a challenge. Undaunted, Corredor delved into a seemingly never-ending collection of mementos to create a tribute to Tulloch’s career. “His team colors are blue and white, so we used those colors in this space,” she says. In a nod to Tulloch’s career on and off the field, his home office displays awards, recognition plaques and photos from his foundation. A Copenhagen desk, Herman Miller chair and leather-topped credenza further an aura of masculinity. All about relaxation, the master bedroom would not be complete without its own sitting area for viewing sports updates or late-night movies. Here, lounge chairs recline to create the perfect spot for Tulloch to put his feet up and watch TV. “He wanted it to be really comfortable,” Corredor says A total redo was required in the master bath, where the now 12-foot-long shower is a far cry from those in a locker room. “This bath is more like a launching pad to get you going in the morning,” Corredor says. “All in all, it’s a fun, warm and beautiful environment,” the designer says. “I wanted to create something unique, that would make my client proud and happy.” In Tulloch’s world, that’s a touchdown. Your friendly Interior design firm in Miami at your service. Contemporary - Modern Interior designs. Top Interior Design Firm in Miami – Coral Gables. Office, Offices, Kitchen, Kitchens, Bedroom, Bedrooms, Bed, Queen bed, King Bed, Single bed, House Interior Designer, House Interior Designers, Home Interior Designer, Home Interior Designers, Residential Interior Designer, Residential Interior Designers, Modern Interior Designers, Miami Beach Designers, Best Miami Interior Designers, Miami Beach Interiors, Luxurious Design in Miami, Top designers, Deco Miami, Luxury interiors, Miami modern, Interior Designer Miami, Contemporary Interior Designers, Coco Plum Interior Designers, Miami Interior Designer, Sunny Isles Interior Designers, Pinecrest Interior Designers, Interior Designers Miami, J Design Group interiors, South Florida designers, Best Miami Designers, Miami interiors, Miami décor, Miami Beach Luxury Interiors, Miami Interior Design, Miami Interior Design Firms, Beach front, Top Interior Designers, top décor, Top Miami Decorators, Miami luxury condos, Top Miami Interior Decorators, Top Miami Interior Designers, Modern Designers in Miami, modern interiors, Modern, Pent house design, white interiors, Miami, South Miami, Miami Beach, South Beach, Williams Island, Sunny Isles, Surfside, Fisher Island, Aventura, Brickell, Brickell Key, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, CocoPlum, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, Miami Design District, Golden Beach, Downtown Miami, Miami Interior Designers, Miami Interior Designer, Interior Designers Miami, Modern Interior Designers, Modern Interior Designer, Modern interior decorators, Contemporary Interior Designers, Interior decorators, Interior decorator, Interior designer, Interior designers, Luxury, modern, best, unique, real estate, decor J Design Group – Miami Interior Design Firm – Modern – Contemporary Contact us: (305) 444-4611 http://www.JDesignGroup.com

A TOUCHDOWN BY DESIGN Interior design by Jennifer Corredor, J Design Group, Coral Gables, Florida Text by Christine Davis Photography by Pablo Corredor Miami, Florida What did Detroit Lions linebacker, Stephen Tulloch, do when he needed a decorator for his new Miami 10,000-square-foot home? He tackled the situation by hiring interior designer Jennifer Corredor. Never defensive, he let her have run of the field. “He’d say, ‘Jen, do your thing,’” she says. And she did it well. The first order of the day was to get a lay of the land and a feel for what he wanted. For his primary residence, Tulloch chose a home in Pinecrest, Florida. — a great family neighborhood known for its schools and ample lot sizes. “His lot is huge,” Corredor says. “He could practice his game there if he wanted.” A laidback feeling permeates the suburban village, where mostly Mediterranean homes intermix with a few modern styles. With views toward the pool and a landscaped yard, Tulloch’s 10,000-square-foot home touches on both, a Mediterranean exterior with chic contemporary interiors. Step inside, where high ceilings and a sculptural stairway with oak treads and linear spindles immediately capture the eye. “Knowing he was more inclined toward an uncluttered look, and taking into consideration his age and lifestyle, I naturally took the path of choosing more modern furnishings,” the designer says. In the dining room, Tulloch specifically asked for a round table and Corredor found “Xilos Simplice” by Maxalto, a table that seats six to eight and has a Lazy Susan. And just past the stairway, two armless chairs from Calligaris and a semi-round sofa shape the living room. In keeping with Tulloch’s desire for a simple no-fuss lifestyle, leather is often used for upholstery. “He preferred wipe-able areas,” she says. “Nearly everything in the living room is clad in leather.” An architecturally striking, oak-coffered ceiling warms the family room, while Saturnia marble flooring grounds the space in cool comfort. “Since it’s just off the kitchen, this relaxed space provides the perfect place for family and friends to congregate — somewhere to hang out,” Corredor says. The deep-seated sofa wrapped in tan leather and Minotti armchairs in white join a pair of linen-clad ottomans for ample seating. With eight bedrooms in the home, there was “plenty of space to repurpose,” Corredor says. “Five are used for sleeping quarters, but the others have been converted into a billiard room, a home office and the memorabilia room.” On the first floor, the billiard room is set for fun and entertainment with doors that open to the pool area. The memorabilia room presented quite a challenge. Undaunted, Corredor delved into a seemingly never-ending collection of mementos to create a tribute to Tulloch’s career. “His team colors are blue and white, so we used those colors in this space,” she says. In a nod to Tulloch’s career on and off the field, his home office displays awards, recognition plaques and photos from his foundation. A Copenhagen desk, Herman Miller chair and leather-topped credenza further an aura of masculinity. All about relaxation, the master bedroom would not be complete without its own sitting area for viewing sports updates or late-night movies. Here, lounge chairs recline to create the perfect spot for Tulloch to put his feet up and watch TV. “He wanted it to be really comfortable,” Corredor says A total redo was required in the master bath, where the now 12-foot-long shower is a far cry from those in a locker room. “This bath is more like a launching pad to get you going in the morning,” Corredor says. “All in all, it’s a fun, warm and beautiful environment,” the designer says. “I wanted to create something unique, that would make my client proud and happy.” In Tulloch’s world, that’s a touchdown. Your friendly Interior design firm in Miami at your service. Contemporary - Modern Interior designs. Top Interior Design Firm in Miami – Coral Gables. Office, Offices, Kitchen, Kitchens, Bedroom, Bedrooms, Bed, Queen bed, King Bed, Single bed, House Interior Designer, House Interior Designers, Home Interior Designer, Home Interior Designers, Residential Interior Designer, Residential Interior Designers, Modern Interior Designers, Miami Beach Designers, Best Miami Interior Designers, Miami Beach Interiors, Luxurious Design in Miami, Top designers, Deco Miami, Luxury interiors, Miami modern, Interior Designer Miami, Contemporary Interior Designers, Coco Plum Interior Designers, Miami Interior Designer, Sunny Isles Interior Designers, Pinecrest Interior Designers, Interior Designers Miami, J Design Group interiors, South Florida designers, Best Miami Designers, Miami interiors, Miami décor, Miami Beach Luxury Interiors, Miami Interior Design, Miami Interior Design Firms, Beach front, Top Interior Designers, top décor, Top Miami Decorators, Miami luxury condos, Top Miami Interior Decorators, Top Miami Interior Designers, Modern Designers in Miami, modern interiors, Modern, Pent house design, white interiors, Miami, South Miami, Miami Beach, South Beach, Williams Island, Sunny Isles, Surfside, Fisher Island, Aventura, Brickell, Brickell Key, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, CocoPlum, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, Miami Design District, Golden Beach, Downtown Miami, Miami Interior Designers, Miami Interior Designer, Interior Designers Miami, Modern Interior Designers, Modern Interior Designer, Modern interior decorators, Contemporary Interior Designers, Interior decorators, Interior decorator, Interior designer, Interior designers, Luxury, modern, best, unique, real estate, decor J Design Group – Miami Interior Design Firm – Modern – Contemporary Contact us: (305) 444-4611 http://www.JDesignGroup.com

Complimenting the beautiful Colorado fall colors, this Montana Timber Products home features prefinished ranchwood™ Tackroom, Circle Sawn texture as a vertical installation. - The beautiful ranchwood Tackroom color, along with the vertical installation and stone work, combine for a painter's pleasure with the fall birch colors. - Our flagship product, ranchwood™ is Montana Timber Products' chemical free, kiln dried, alternative milled rough stock wood. As an ideal reclaimed lumber alternative, the aesthetically pleasing rustic barn wood ranchwood™ is the result of an environmentally safe production process. Offering uncompromising natural, rustic beauty, ranchwood™ is typically less expensive than antique reclaimed barnwood. - Combined textures solidify into a beautiful rustic brew. - A custom millwork shop, Montana Timber Products offers many options to the customer's delight. Circle Sawn and Wire Brushed are Montana Timber Products' common cedar siding texturizing options. The Circle Sawn texture commonly seen on rustic reclaimed barn wood is created from the large circular saw blades used in more traditional milling practices. The Wire Brushed option adds physical and aesthetic depth to the wood grain. In addition to the aesthetic beauty added from the texturing process, greater surface area is created, which allows the Seal-Once, 100% NO VOC waterproofer to more effectively penetrate the wood. Guarneteed for ten years, Seal-Once prevents water ingress and is safe for exterior and interior use, children and pets. - Sophistication is no stranger to rustic application if done properly, as seen here with distinct lines and harmonious collaboration of wood and stone. - If the environment is important to you, Montana Timber Products natural wood siding, trim, flooring, interior accents, timbers, beams -- all of our wood products -- do not use degenerative chemicals as some other companies do to achieve desired effects. Reclaimed wood, barn wood alternatives, and faux vintage wood are popular building materials further exemplified by Montana Timber Products environmentally friendly manufacturing technique.

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood. INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site. EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot. THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place. HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde. YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting. ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements. RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage. OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet. ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings Eric Roth Photography - Photography

He then bathed the spaces in sophisticated Kreon lighting, which creates a soft, cozy environment from morning through nighttime.
Inspiration for a large contemporary l-shaped gray floor eat-in kitchen remodel in DC Metro with an integrated sink, flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, quartz countertops, brown backsplash, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

Noon Honey Porcelain Tile 8x48 Matte Chevron : 8x48 Matte : 8x48 Polished Warm and bursting with light, NOON is a contemporary expression of the simple life. The natural warmth of wood restores the lively pace of a thrilling life to urban spaces, in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment. Irregular veins, knots and splits, unique boards with their striking shaded effects allows this porcelain collection to illuminate the original material, bringing a splendid, practical glow to the setting.

On the left, the original pared-down Living and on the right, the new BLUE BOX of Open Kitchen, Dining and ancillary spaces. Photography by Beton Brut.

Masano Kawana
Trendy exterior home photo in Singapore

Benefits of Plantation Shutters Plantation shutters offer advantages and benefits to homeowners over other window coverings including: • A permanent addition to a house: While they don't add much to the sale price and don't guarantee a return on investment, the curb appeal helps the house sell faster. The permanency of plantation shutters allows them to be included in appraisals. • Versatility: Many have the ability to open only halfway if desired. If you want to let in all the light, plantation shutters swing away from the window to grant an unobstructed view. • Insulation: When all louvers are closed, a good insulating barrier is created, trapping unwanted temperatures and saving you money on your energy bill. • Easy maintenance: With wide louvers, a simple wipe-down is often all that's needed. Vinyl shutters can be taken off their hinges and sprayed off for a major cleaning. • Elegance: The classic, yet modern look conveys a permanency like no other window dressing can. Whether painted or natural wood, they all have a look that says; welcome home. Wood vs. Faux Wood It's not hard to argue that natural wood is more appealing than vinyl or PVC. However, "faux wood," as it's sometimes called, has some advantages: • Price -- Faux wood shutters are often lower in price than real wood. • Weight -- Because some shutters are made "hollow core" (as opposed to vinyl-wrapped medium density fiberboard, MDF), they can be significantly lighter. • Moisture Resistance -- If you live in an area with high humidity, hollow faux wood or aluminum core will resist expanding and sagging. (MDF core louvers will tend to expand and crack as the material swells with moisture.) Natural wood is the choice for those who have a very healthy budget or for whom a specific appearance is a must. Among the advantages are: • Size -- Because wood plantation shutters are made of hardwood, they can be quite a bit larger than plastic or vinyl. Vinyl shutters larger than 29 inches may be prone to sag, so they need divider rails or other supports which can destroy the traditional look of a plantation shutter. • Natural -- While vinyl or plastic shutters can be painted to match any color scheme, the natural shades and finishes of the various species of wood have something for every look. • Classic -- While many plastic shutters can be made to look like real wood, the faux wood finishes can vary significantly depending on manufacturer and model. Up close, it can be easy to tell they're plastic. The warmth of natural wood is a classic feel that's impossible to beat. Popular Plantation Shutter Brands When you go to purchase your plantation shutters, brands names may offer a good representation of high-, mid-, and low-cost range of what's available. Which one you choose depends on your budget and your tastes. Hunter-Douglas and Norman Shutters produce three lines of plantation shutters in both real wood and faux wood styles. A higher-end product, Hunter-Douglas may be worth the cost for beauty and quality of workmanship. The Window Outfitters and Sunland produce a mid-cost line of shutters. The mid-range pricing may be for those who are balancing aesthetics with a budget. National franchise and or box stores may not offer an in-house expert or designer. Look to local companies that specialize in plantation shutters looking online may offer a low-cost brand for budget-minded DIYers. Available in both faux and real wood, the affordability combines with the visual appeal to make this a very popular choice for plantation shutters. Regardless of which line you go with, be sure to ask about frames. Generally all manufactures offer frame choices and may add to the cost, but they add an unsurpassed beauty and warmth to a room with plantation shutters. Plantation shutters look like similar to wooden blinds, but there are significant differences. Blinds are often narrow, made of aluminum or vinyl, and the slats tilt based on a gear and pulley mechanism and they hang in the window with cords. By contrast, plantation shutters have wide compound louvers that fit into a frame and are controlled by way of a wooden rod running up the middle. When not needed, they can be manufactured to swing back onto the wall. Options to are available to build a more contemporary look with a larger view with a “hidden tilt” feature. Cost of Plantation Shutters Nationally, the cost of plantation shutters, depending on their size and the material, whether or not they are custom arches and colors or stains, may vary. Most manufacturers want their shutters to be professionally installed to keep the warranty intact which is a benefit to the customer in the long run. They will usually have a limited lifetime warranty. Cost of Installation Costs for having plantation shutters installed by a contractor are a bit more predictable. Contractors who have installed plantation shutters before can quickly get accurate measurements and suggest which materials would work best in different rooms. For example, while natural wood may look beautiful in your living room, it might not be so practical in a bathroom where moisture will cause the wood to warp. The size, material, and quality of the shutter will have a significant effect on the cost. Contractors usually go through a shutter supplier and can get various sizes that are not normally available at home improvement stores. Hiring a professional team of knowledgeable suppliers and installers is a good choice. Here are some sample prices of the shutters most contractors use for standard-sized windows: In general, plantation shutters should cost approximately $20 to $26 per square foot. Labor costs depend on factors such as the contractor's workload, remoteness of the location, environment, and the contractor's overhead. Labor generally runs about $100 per hour and will be added to the shutter cost. • 16x20 -- Faux wood $120. Real wood $156 • 24x50 -- Faux wood $160. Real wood $208 • 36x54 -- Faux wood $270. Real wood $351 • 36x60 -- Faux wood $300 Real wood $390 • 42x72 -- Faux wood $420. Real wood $546 • 48x82 -- Faux wood $550. Real wood $715 DIY Plantation shutters can be purchased and installed by the homeowners. How much they cost will depend on size and material. Faux wood shutter’s cost depends on size and wooden shutter’s cost will depend on size and whether or not they are painted or stained. • Natural wood is $90-$600 depending on size. Many companies offer standard stained selection but custom color matching may be available from $175 -$250. • Faux wood will be from $120-$500. • Additional tools include: Hang Strips $4-$15 and about $4 for mounting hardware. Locks or closures can cost up to $15 for each shutter. Finally, if you order them online, you can expect to pay $30-$70 shipping per shutter or per set of shutters per window depending on the supplier. Keep in mind that even if you're handy with tools, installing shutters can be time-consuming if you've never done it before there is defiantly a learning curve.

Request Free Quote If you live in the Chicagoland area and want to swim year-round, you require an indoor swimming pool. This indoor paradise has all of the amenities that an outdoor swimming pool would have and more. Automatic swimming pool covers on both the pool and hot tub keep moisture down in the room, and laminar flow fountain jets around the perimeter give a measure of visual excitement and elegance. The slide gives kids a fun activity in the winter that they otherwise wouldn't have, along with a diving board to faciliate winter dive practice. Photos by Linda Oyama Bryan

Carolyn Reyes Photography © 2017 Houzz
Example of a trendy kids' room design in Los Angeles

Oakley Home Builders is a custom home builder and remodeling company in the Chicago suburbs that has integrated distinctive home designs into surrounding communities, neighborhoods and coveted residential landscapes. Positioned as a flourishing Chicago western suburbs home builder, Oakley Home Builders demonstrates a passionate pursuit of detail-rich, value-driven design and efficient construction that provides homebuyers with a masterfully planned and executed living environment. Whether building on your site or one of our many available lots, Oakley Home Builders is recognized among Chicago western suburbs home builders for its excellent build-to-suit program. Guiding homebuyers through a simple, step-by-step process, we enhance the building experience by providing practical advice, flexible accommodations, and educational insight. But while we are mainly a home builder in Chicago suburbs, we also build luxurious beach homes in Naples, FL and along the shores of Lake Michigan in Indiana and Michigan's Harbor Country. In addition we serve as an expert suburban Chicago remodeling company catering to the communities of Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, LaGrange, Western Springs, Elmhurst, and other west suburban locations.

The primary bathroom for this home project is tiled with beige honed limestone on the floor and within the shower. These warm tones evoke the palette and texture of a sand dune and are complimented by the rift white oak bathroom cabinetry, polished quartzite stone countertop, and backsplash. Hand-polished brass wall sconces with a lead crystal shade create soft lighting within the room. This view showcases the beige honed limestone that extends into a custom-built shower, to create an immersive warm environment. Satin gold hardware gleams to create vibrant highlights throughout the bathroom. A screen of beige honed limestone was added to the side of the bathroom cabinets, adding privacy and extra room for the placement of satin gold hand towel hardware. This view of the primary bathroom features a beige honed limestone finish that extends from the floor into the custom-built shower. These warm tones are complimented by the wood finish of the rift white oak bathroom cabinets which feature a polished quartzite stone countertop and backsplash. A turn in the vanity creates extra cabinet and counter space for storage. The variations presented for this home project demonstrate the myriad of ways in which natural materials such as wood and stone can be utilized within the home to create luxurious and practical surroundings. Bringing in the fresh, serene qualities of the surrounding oceanscape to create space that enhances day-to-day living.

Dining Room in Ridgerunner Drive | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel | Project Name: Ridgerunner | Key Feature: A full-home transformation that converted the property from a dated Tuscan style into a modern farmhouse design with a more contemporary edge. Challenge: The home’s original Tuscan style felt dated and did not align with the homeowners’ desired aesthetic. The challenge was to modernize the entire space while creating a design that remained practical and comfortable for a young family with a child. Solution: The home underwent a complete remodel that replaced the heavy Tuscan finishes with a lighter, more modern farmhouse palette. Updated materials, finishes, and design details created a fresh, contemporary look while maintaining a family-friendly environment. Timeline: Completed in 2019.

Revamping the laundry room brings a blend of functionality and style to an often-overlooked space. Upgrading appliances to energy-efficient models enhances efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Custom cabinetry and shelving solutions maximize storage for detergents, cleaning supplies, and laundry essentials, promoting an organized and clutter-free environment. Consideration of ergonomic design, such as a folding counter or ironing station, streamlines tasks and adds a touch of convenience. Thoughtful lighting choices, perhaps with LED fixtures or natural light sources, contribute to a bright and inviting atmosphere. Flooring upgrades for durability, such as water-resistant tiles or easy-to-clean materials, can withstand the demands of laundry tasks. Ultimately, a remodeled laundry room not only elevates its practical functionality but also transforms it into a well-designed, efficient space that makes the often-dreaded chore of laundry a more pleasant experience.