The 1987 home's master bathroom reflected that era, with a huge whirlpool tub, a laminate dual vanity, and mirrored walls. The clients wanted a renovation that captured an Old World style that reminded them of their time in Italy. We gave it a modern sensibility that made the space both practical and beautiful. We removed the mirrors, tub and glass shower and created a spacious shower where the tub used to be. Inside the shower, we added two stone-covered benches and bronze- finished grab bars for safety; his/her niches for bath products; and a rainfall shower head, body sprays and a handheld massage shower on a slide. A copper air tub with traditional lines gives the room a focal point. Rearranging the space allowed us to fulfill the clients' request for separate his/her vanities. The remote-controlled tub and shower functions are hidden by cabinetry. Inadequate fluorescent lights were replaced by LEDs and sconces with independent controls. Large porcelain tiles are accented with glass, stone and porcelain mosaic. A faux-iron grille above the shower allows air circulation while adding to the Italian feel. Neutral quartz countertops with textured, reflective glass lavatories set off dark, custom hickory cabinetry that gives the clients the storage they wanted, up to the ceiling, including pull- out drawers, a robe closet and outlet-equipped cabinets. And a David statue looks on from a lighted, recessed display space.

**Description:** Full kitchen renovation in Mississauga’s Square One area focused on improving layout, storage, and everyday functionality. The space was redesigned with custom cabinetry, extended countertops, upgraded lighting, and an integrated under-counter wine cooler for temperature-controlled storage. The result is a modern, well-organized kitchen that feels open, practical, and built for daily living and entertaining.

Coco coir is a versatile and sustainable growing medium that is gaining popularity among gardeners. Made from the fibrous husk of coconuts, it’s an eco-friendly alternative to peat moss and can greatly enhance the quality of your soil. In gardening, it is often utilized in systems like Coco Coir Hydroponic, where it helps create an efficient water and nutrient delivery system. What is Coco Coir? Coco coir is a natural fiber extracted from coconut husks. It has a neutral pH, excellent water retention, and is reusable, making it a favorite among gardeners who prefer organic and sustainable practices. It is available in different forms such as blocks, bricks, or loose coir, each requiring some preparation before use in gardening. Benefits of Using Coco Coir in Gardening Coco coir offers several advantages for gardening. Here are the benefits of using coco coir in gardening: Holds up to 10 times its weight in water, ensuring plants have consistent moisture. Promotes oxygen flow to plant roots, leading to healthier root systems. Coco coir is a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to peat moss. It can be washed, rehydrated, and reused, reducing waste. Naturally pH neutral, making it suitable for various plants without major adjustments. Enhances the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. How to Prepare Coco Coir for Planting Preparing coco coir for planting involves a few essential steps. First, you need to hydrate the coir block, as it typically comes in a compressed form. Place the block in a large container and add warm water, allowing the block to expand and absorb the water. Once fully expanded, the coir should be fluffed up by breaking it apart with your hands or a tool to ensure it becomes loose and airy. After the coir has been fluffed, it is important to drain any excess water, as overly wet coir can lead to root suffocation. Finally, since coco coir is inert and does not contain nutrients, it’s a good idea to add organic compost or liquid fertilizer to enrich the coir before planting. Do You Need to Soak Coco Coir Before Planting? Yes, soaking coco coir before planting is necessary. Since it comes in a compressed form, it needs to be broken down and hydrated for proper use. The soaking process allows the coir to expand and release the fibers, making it usable as a growing medium. After soaking, the coir should be fluffed to ensure the water is evenly distributed. Draining any excess water is crucial because overly wet coir may impede plant root health. How to Prepare Coco Peat for Planting Coco peat, a fine, powdery form of coco coir, is highly beneficial for seed starting and improving water retention in soil. To prepare coco peat, it first needs to be hydrated, similar to how you prepare coir blocks. Slowly add water to the peat in a container and allow it to absorb and fluff up. Once hydrated, coco peat can be used on its own or mixed with other growing media such as perlite or vermiculite for added aeration and drainage. It is advisable to check the pH level of your final mix, as coco peat generally has a neutral pH, but adjustments may be necessary depending on the plants being grown. Can You Use Just Coco Coir for Plants? Yes, coco coir can be used by itself to grow plants, especially in hydroponic systems or as a seed-starting medium. However, because coco coir does not naturally contain nutrients, you will need to provide regular fertilizer to support plant growth. This makes it particularly suitable for plants grown in controlled environments, such as hydroponics, where nutrient solutions can be carefully managed. In traditional soil-based gardening, mixing coco coir with other organic materials like compost is recommended to provide essential nutrients and improve the overall soil structure. How to Use Coco Coir in Hydroponics Coco coir is widely used in hydroponic systems due to its water retention and aeration properties. To use coco coir in hydroponics, it first needs to be soaked and hydrated, as discussed earlier. Once the coir is fully prepared, it can be placed in the hydroponic system. Since coco coir does not contain natural nutrients, you will need to supply a balanced nutrient solution tailored for hydroponic plants. Regular monitoring of water and nutrient levels is essential to prevent nutrient imbalances or root rot. One of the benefits of coco coir in hydroponics is its reusability. After completing a growing cycle, the coir can be washed, rehydrated, and used again in future plantings. Using Coco Coir as a Soil Amendment Coco coir is also an excellent soil amendment, as it improves the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. To use coco coir in this way, mix loose coir with your existing garden soil at a ratio of one part coco coir to two parts soil. This will help retain moisture without compacting the soil, improving both water drainage and root growth. For optimal results, you can also add organic compost to the mix, ensuring that the nutrient levels are sufficient for plant growth. Coco coir works particularly well in raised beds, where it helps maintain proper soil structure over time. Advantages of Using Coco Coir Over Peat Moss While peat moss has been traditionally used as a growing medium, coco coir offers several advantages over it. Coco coir is a renewable resource, as it is a byproduct of coconut processing, while peat moss is harvested from peat bogs that take centuries to regenerate. Coco coir is also more durable, as it can be reused multiple times without breaking down, while peat moss disintegrates after a single use. Another key benefit is its neutral pH, whereas peat moss is more acidic and may require balancing to meet the needs of specific plants. Conclusion Coco coir is a highly versatile and sustainable growing medium that benefits both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you are using it for hydroponics, as a soil amendment, or as a standalone medium for growing plants, knowing how to properly prepare and use it is key to maximizing its benefits. By following the steps detailed above, you can improve water retention, aeration, and overall plant health in your garden, all while contributing to eco-friendly gardening practices.

We started with a traditional, builder grade bathroom and re-imagined the space to become a beautiful steam shower retreat. The original layout had a the acrylic tub at the bathroom entrance on the left with the vanity and toilet toward the window. We replace the casement window with a glass block and removed a closet and expanded the area for the new shower. The shower base is recessed to achieve a barrier free entrance. This spa has a steam unit as well as dual rain heads controlled independently. There is a floating tiled bench with four body jets on separate controls. The custom wall mounted vanity is perfectly integrated with a Vanico over counter sink. Two wall mounted fixtures provide a sleek look with the practical functionality of a dual sink configuration. A matching tall linen maximises storage. There is also a heated wall mounted towel warmer on a digital timer thermostat. We added a pocket door to the adjacent bedroom to provide convenient private access for guests.

We started with a traditional, builder grade bathroom and re-imagined the space to become a beautiful steam shower retreat. The original layout had a the acrylic tub at the bathroom entrance on the left with the vanity and toilet toward the window. We replace the casement window with a glass block and removed a closet and expanded the area for the new shower. The shower base is recessed to achieve a barrier free entrance. This spa has a steam unit as well as dual rain heads controlled independently. There is a floating tiled bench with four body jets on separate controls. The custom wall mounted vanity is perfectly integrated with a Vanico over counter sink. Two wall mounted fixtures provide a sleek look with the practical functionality of a dual sink configuration. A matching tall linen maximises storage. There is also a heated wall mounted towel warmer on a digital timer thermostat. We added a pocket door to the adjacent bedroom to provide convenient private access for guests.

In this bedroom bay window seat, Roman shades are inside mounted to provide control of light and heat. A colleciton of custom pillows keep this bay window a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the view. Linda H. Bassert, Masterworks Window Fashions & Design, LLC

This Craftsman home gives you 5,292 square feet of heated living space spread across its three levels as follows: 1,964 sq. ft. Main Floor 1,824 sq. ft. Upper Floor 1,504 sq. ft. Lower Level Higlights include the 2 story great room on the main floor. Laundry on upper floor. An indoor sports court so you can practice your 3-point shot. The plans are available in print, PDF and CAD. And we can modify them to suit your needs. Where do YOU want to build? Plan Link: http://www.architecturaldesigns.com/house-plan-73333HS.asp

What a transformation! Originally, this master bath featured a large deck tub which was tucked in to the corner where the new wet area currently lies. The tub was walled in on practically all sides, and controlled too much of the baths underutilized square footage. By taking the tub out of the deck and relocating it against the far wall, we now could use the space in front of the tub for a large walk-in shower, creating a wet area. In addition, this move allowed us to use the space that had previously housed the small shower as a designated makeup counter.

The chef-inspired sink area boasts a durable and stylish Elkay Crosstown Single Basin sink, complemented by a practical Wolverine Brass-Chrome Basket Strainer. The sophisticated Brizo Litze Smart Touch Single Lever Kitchen Faucet adds a touch of modern convenience and elegance.

Ample amounts of natural light flood into the space through a large window above an undermount Elkay stainless sink and Single-hole Grohe faucet. Additional artificial light was layered throughout the room including above the cabinets to accentuate the vaulted ceilings as well as under the cabinets for practical purposes. This light keeps this kitchen feeling expansive and airy and compliments the flowing layout.

Small transitional hallway photo in Other with beige walls

What a transformation! Originally, this master bath featured a large deck tub which was tucked in to the corner where the new wet area currently lies. The tub was walled in on practically all sides, and controlled too much of the baths underutilized square footage. By taking the tub out of the deck and relocating it against the far wall, we now could use the space in front of the tub for a large walk-in shower, creating a wet area. In addition, this move allowed us to use the space that had previously housed the small shower as a designated makeup counter.

Add a state of the art patio cover like this one to your backyard. It opens and closes by remote control operation. Open to view the stars at night while sitting around with friends enjoying a good meal or glass of wine. Close to protect patio from rain or hot sun. Don't send guest inside when the weather will not cooperate. Keep the party going by covering your outdoor space with a louvered patio cover. Customers feel 15 - 20 degrees cooler underneath. Never paint again. Finish will last a lifetime; will not rust, corrode or fade. Will withstand up to 182 mph winds. Custom fit for your deck or patio. Palmetto Outdoor Spaces can help you design yours.

The client's grandkid's shower features Waterworks fixtures with wheel handle controls and a shower slide bar. Wood look tile is very practical and gives a barn wood feeling that contributes to the old west, mine shaft theme. The stone slab bench also mimics wood and the mix of pebble wall tile and hex flooring tiles add to the nostalgic feel. Design by Rochelle Lynne Design, Cochrane, Alberta, Canada

Rooftop Garden drip irrigation c: RR Irrigation
Trendy exterior home photo in New York

The best interior designers & architects in NYC! Residential interior design, Common area design, Hospitality design, Exterior design, Commercial design - any interior or architectural design basically from a unique design team :) Our goal is to provide clients in Manhattan, New York, New Jersey & beyond with outstanding architectural & interior design services and installation management through a unique approach and unparalleled work quality. Our mission is to create Dream Homes that change people's lives! Working with us is a simple two step process - Design & Installation. The core is that all our design ideas (interior design of an apartment, restaurant, hotel design or architectural design of a building) are presented through exceptionally realistic images, delivering the exact look of your future interior/exterior, before you commit to investing. The Installation then abides to the paradigm of 'What I See Is What I Get', replicating the approved design. All together it gives you full control and eliminates the risk of having an unsatisfactory end product - no other interior designer or architect can offer. Our team's passion, talent & professionalism brings you the best possible result, while our client-oriented philosophy & determination to make the process easy & convenient, saves you great deal of time and concern. In short, this is Design as it Should be... Other services: Lobby design, Store & storefront design, Hotel design, Restaurant design, House design www.vanguard-development.com

Kitchen - contemporary kitchen idea in London

Large trendy master single-sink bathroom photo in Portland with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, marble countertops, white countertops and a built-in vanity

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.