Search results for "Practically grades" in Home Design Ideas

Our client recently purchased a newly-constructed home in order to downsize and have a low- maintenance home and yard. The existing side yard/back yard was undeveloped by the builder, leaving the homeowner with the huge challenge of creating a great outdoor entertaining space for family and friends, while creating privacy and overcoming the over 8-foot steep drop from the existing back porch down to the alley.
The grade was the largest challenge because the space was so narrow with such a large fall from existing porch to the property line. The second largest challenge is that this residence is located in a semi-private community where HOA approval of plans and materials is difficult, as all the residences here share a similar look and feel with a very clean and contemporary aesthetic.
We had to precisely shoot grades to know what kinds of retaining walls would need to be constructed along with how much backfill soil and dirt movement would need to be done. After that the design had to carefully consider the space with maximum functionality for outdoor entertainment with newly constructed walls to ensure it would last for many years to come. All of this was done with multiple meetings with the homeowners who are a retired engineer and active architect themselves. Once a design was settled upon, then submission to the HOA board of approval had to be completed and signed off on with all questions and concerns answered for the community by-laws.
The two biggest difficulties within the construction phase were that the neighbor next to the back yard had a large retaining wall not properly backfilled up to the property line. That neighbor wouldn’t allow us proper access and control to help alleviate the issues, so we had to skillfully work around this to ensure what we constructed would last, despite their property not being properly addressed. We also had to go through multiple shipments from the manufacturer due to large variances in the material’s appearance on the steps and another shipment that was broken during shipping. These two things delayed the project we were working to complete before the spring so the homeowner could have the maximum use of the space this year.
Topping off this challenging construction was a beautiful palette of native grasses, rosemary, groundcover, granite walkways, and synthetic grass to ensure year-round, practically effortless beauty.

This sustainable project was completed on a private 80 acre view parcel in the hills above Corralitos, CA. The owners were drawn to us through the Green Building link on our website and after an initial meeting, hired us to manage the preliminary feasibility studies, site work, design and eventual construction.
With this type of project, we start at the beginning; making sure that development on the site is both possible and practical before we spend a lot of our client’s budget on plans that may not be suitable. After we determined that building on the property would be permitted by the Santa Cruz County Building and Planning Departments, we completed several feasibility steps that included:
•A geologic review
• Percolation test (for septic)
• Water well probability analysis
• Grading analysis
• Biologic review
• Site survey and topographic mapping
• Earthquake zone and archeological clearances
With these steps finished, we set up interviews with several local architects that we partner with to find the one that was most appealing to our client. The owners were integral to the process and agreed with our choice of Daniel Silvernail, Architect. He impressed the clients with his gracious nature and open attitude; welcoming feedback and the preferences they had throughout the design process. In addition to being very reasonably priced, Mr. Silvernail quickly gave his attention to the preliminary design plans. After client reviews and approval the full architectural and construction blueprints were finished. We had the complete ready-to-submit-for-permit documents in less than 10 weeks; this included structural engineering, energy calculations and Green Building ratings. We were all impressed by his professionalism throughout the design and building process.

Our client recently purchased a newly-constructed home in order to downsize and have a low- maintenance home and yard. The existing side yard/back yard was undeveloped by the builder, leaving the homeowner with the huge challenge of creating a great outdoor entertaining space for family and friends, while creating privacy and overcoming the over 8-foot steep drop from the existing back porch down to the alley.
The grade was the largest challenge because the space was so narrow with such a large fall from existing porch to the property line. The second largest challenge is that this residence is located in a semi-private community where HOA approval of plans and materials is difficult, as all the residences here share a similar look and feel with a very clean and contemporary aesthetic.
We had to precisely shoot grades to know what kinds of retaining walls would need to be constructed along with how much backfill soil and dirt movement would need to be done. After that the design had to carefully consider the space with maximum functionality for outdoor entertainment with newly constructed walls to ensure it would last for many years to come. All of this was done with multiple meetings with the homeowners who are a retired engineer and active architect themselves. Once a design was settled upon, then submission to the HOA board of approval had to be completed and signed off on with all questions and concerns answered for the community by-laws.
The two biggest difficulties within the construction phase were that the neighbor next to the back yard had a large retaining wall not properly backfilled up to the property line. That neighbor wouldn’t allow us proper access and control to help alleviate the issues, so we had to skillfully work around this to ensure what we constructed would last, despite their property not being properly addressed. We also had to go through multiple shipments from the manufacturer due to large variances in the material’s appearance on the steps and another shipment that was broken during shipping. These two things delayed the project we were working to complete before the spring so the homeowner could have the maximum use of the space this year.
Topping off this challenging construction was a beautiful palette of native grasses, rosemary, groundcover, granite walkways, and synthetic grass to ensure year-round, practically effortless beauty.
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This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

This sustainable project was completed on a private 80 acre view parcel in the hills above Corralitos, CA. The owners were drawn to us through the Green Building link on our website and after an initial meeting, hired us to manage the preliminary feasibility studies, site work, design and eventual construction.
With this type of project, we start at the beginning; making sure that development on the site is both possible and practical before we spend a lot of our client’s budget on plans that may not be suitable. After we determined that building on the property would be permitted by the Santa Cruz County Building and Planning Departments, we completed several feasibility steps that included:
•A geologic review
• Percolation test (for septic)
• Water well probability analysis
• Grading analysis
• Biologic review
• Site survey and topographic mapping
• Earthquake zone and archeological clearances
With these steps finished, we set up interviews with several local architects that we partner with to find the one that was most appealing to our client. The owners were integral to the process and agreed with our choice of Daniel Silvernail, Architect. He impressed the clients with his gracious nature and open attitude; welcoming feedback and the preferences they had throughout the design process. In addition to being very reasonably priced, Mr. Silvernail quickly gave his attention to the preliminary design plans. After client reviews and approval the full architectural and construction blueprints were finished. We had the complete ready-to-submit-for-permit documents in less than 10 weeks; this included structural engineering, energy calculations and Green Building ratings. We were all impressed by his professionalism throughout the design and building process.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

This kitchen renovation project combines modern functionality with classic farmhouse charm to create a warm and inviting culinary space. The room features custom cabinetry painted in a soft beige hue, lending a serene and cohesive look to the entire kitchen. The cabinets are complemented by sleek, modern hardware that adds a subtle touch of sophistication.
A standout feature of this kitchen is the expansive countertop, crafted from a rich, textured material that provides ample space for meal preparation and entertaining. The countertops are paired with a stylish apron-front sink, enhancing the farmhouse aesthetic while ensuring practical utility.
The kitchen boasts state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances, seamlessly integrated into the cabinetry for a streamlined appearance. The large double-door refrigerator and professional-grade gas range are both high-performing and visually striking, ensuring the kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful.
Natural light floods the space through three large windows adorned with charming café curtains, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Pendant lights hang gracefully above the sink area, providing both task lighting and a decorative element that ties the design together.
A handwoven area rug in soft, muted tones adds warmth and texture to the dark hardwood flooring, further enhancing the inviting feel of the kitchen. Open shelving units and cleverly placed nooks offer additional storage and display opportunities, allowing for a personalized touch with decor and kitchen essentials.
Overall, this kitchen renovation project successfully marries timeless farmhouse elements with modern design features, resulting in a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.

Our client recently purchased a newly-constructed home in order to downsize and have a low- maintenance home and yard. The existing side yard/back yard was undeveloped by the builder, leaving the homeowner with the huge challenge of creating a great outdoor entertaining space for family and friends, while creating privacy and overcoming the over 8-foot steep drop from the existing back porch down to the alley.
The grade was the largest challenge because the space was so narrow with such a large fall from existing porch to the property line. The second largest challenge is that this residence is located in a semi-private community where HOA approval of plans and materials is difficult, as all the residences here share a similar look and feel with a very clean and contemporary aesthetic.
We had to precisely shoot grades to know what kinds of retaining walls would need to be constructed along with how much backfill soil and dirt movement would need to be done. After that the design had to carefully consider the space with maximum functionality for outdoor entertainment with newly constructed walls to ensure it would last for many years to come. All of this was done with multiple meetings with the homeowners who are a retired engineer and active architect themselves. Once a design was settled upon, then submission to the HOA board of approval had to be completed and signed off on with all questions and concerns answered for the community by-laws.
The two biggest difficulties within the construction phase were that the neighbor next to the back yard had a large retaining wall not properly backfilled up to the property line. That neighbor wouldn’t allow us proper access and control to help alleviate the issues, so we had to skillfully work around this to ensure what we constructed would last, despite their property not being properly addressed. We also had to go through multiple shipments from the manufacturer due to large variances in the material’s appearance on the steps and another shipment that was broken during shipping. These two things delayed the project we were working to complete before the spring so the homeowner could have the maximum use of the space this year.
Topping off this challenging construction was a beautiful palette of native grasses, rosemary, groundcover, granite walkways, and synthetic grass to ensure year-round, practically effortless beauty.

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

This sustainable project was completed on a private 80 acre view parcel in the hills above Corralitos, CA. The owners were drawn to us through the Green Building link on our website and after an initial meeting, hired us to manage the preliminary feasibility studies, site work, design and eventual construction.
With this type of project, we start at the beginning; making sure that development on the site is both possible and practical before we spend a lot of our client’s budget on plans that may not be suitable. After we determined that building on the property would be permitted by the Santa Cruz County Building and Planning Departments, we completed several feasibility steps that included:
•A geologic review
• Percolation test (for septic)
• Water well probability analysis
• Grading analysis
• Biologic review
• Site survey and topographic mapping
• Earthquake zone and archeological clearances
With these steps finished, we set up interviews with several local architects that we partner with to find the one that was most appealing to our client. The owners were integral to the process and agreed with our choice of Daniel Silvernail, Architect. He impressed the clients with his gracious nature and open attitude; welcoming feedback and the preferences they had throughout the design process. In addition to being very reasonably priced, Mr. Silvernail quickly gave his attention to the preliminary design plans. After client reviews and approval the full architectural and construction blueprints were finished. We had the complete ready-to-submit-for-permit documents in less than 10 weeks; this included structural engineering, energy calculations and Green Building ratings. We were all impressed by his professionalism throughout the design and building process.

Tucked away in a small subdivision, these homeowners have taken their builder-grade backyard and transformed it into a Japanese-inspired oasis. After the initial landscape design and construction by Pacific Garden Design, the homeowners have continued to craft an elegantly evolving landscape. A multi-level deck provides entertaining space as it steps down to the yard. A dry water feature anchors the corner of the yard, while a series of stone benches provide spots for quiet contemplation. The thriving garden area takes advantage of the southern exposure along one side of the yard and offers an opportunity for garden whimsy. Gravel pathways connect the space to the front yard and the natural area behind the property.

【Heavy Duty and High Quality Material】- Our metal storage cabinet is made of reinforced heavy-duty metal frame with a load capacity of up to 120lbs per shelf. The environmental protection powder coating makes it scratch and rust-resistant, ensuring durability and longevity.
【Secure and Practical Design】- Equipped with a high-grade lock and 4 adjustable shelves, our tall metal cabinet provides adaptability and convenience. The lock ensures the safety of your valuables, and the adjustable shelves allow you to create a unique storage space to suit your needs.
【Sturdy and Reliable Weight Capacity】- Each of the 4 shelves in this tall cabinet can hold up to 120lbs, making it perfect for storing office files, garage tools, or other large and heavy items. The heavy-duty metal frame stabilizes the contents and protects them from damage.
【Large Space Design for Extra Storage】- Our tall steel cabinet has an interior design that adds extra space to any room and opens the door to your home. It's ideal for protecting your products from light exposure, temperature, dirt, and dust.
【Easy to Assemble】- The garage storage cabinet is a knock-down structure, and the package comes with detailed assembly instructions, making it easy to assemble. With 2 wing doors that have a 180° opening angle, you can easily access your items.

Sponsored
Westerville, OH
Custom Home Works
Franklin County's Award-Winning Design, Build and Remodeling Expert

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Bright, Functional, and Family-Centered Kitchen Remodel
This stunning kitchen transformation blends timeless style with everyday function, creating a warm, welcoming space ideal for family life and entertaining. A spacious navy island with quartz waterfall countertops anchors the room, providing ample prep space and casual seating for four. Clean white shaker cabinetry is elevated by matte black hardware and modern pendant lighting, while natural wood accents add warmth and texture throughout.
The gourmet kitchen features a professional-grade range, custom hood surround, built-in refrigerator, and a cleverly hidden pantry with pull-out storage. A cozy coffee bar with beverage fridge is tucked away just off the main prep area, making mornings a breeze. Textured tile backsplashes and a deep arched window frame finish the look with visual depth and charm.
This remodel beautifully balances style and practicality—perfect for a busy household that doesn’t want to sacrifice beauty for utility.

Bright, Functional, and Family-Centered Kitchen Remodel
This stunning kitchen transformation blends timeless style with everyday function, creating a warm, welcoming space ideal for family life and entertaining. A spacious navy island with quartz waterfall countertops anchors the room, providing ample prep space and casual seating for four. Clean white shaker cabinetry is elevated by matte black hardware and modern pendant lighting, while natural wood accents add warmth and texture throughout.
The gourmet kitchen features a professional-grade range, custom hood surround, built-in refrigerator, and a cleverly hidden pantry with pull-out storage. A cozy coffee bar with beverage fridge is tucked away just off the main prep area, making mornings a breeze. Textured tile backsplashes and a deep arched window frame finish the look with visual depth and charm.
This remodel beautifully balances style and practicality—perfect for a busy household that doesn’t want to sacrifice beauty for utility.

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.
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