Acton, MA 2008 sq ft varies Visioning, programming, concept design, schematic design, construction documentation and construction administration The HingeHouse project was the result of a unique partnership between an independent architect and a pre-fabricated home manufacturer – a partnership among the first of its kind in the country. Today, many pre-fab companies have adopted this collaborative approach recognizing that homeowners are looking for unique, custom homes while taking advantage of reliable and predictable construction methods and costs. In 2008, the partnership was created to rethink pre-engineered post-and-beam and panelized systems to connect clients to a more modern and integrated set of design values. By integrating systems, factory design approach, manufacturing methodologies and construction sequences with design criteria grounded in sustainable planning and rigorous implementation, HingeHouse was developed. HingeHouse is a fully-customizable pre-fab home which can be configured to meet the needs of any site, and any family. It is flexible and expandable using Deck House engineered building components. Starting with basic floor plans that are optimized spatially to Deck’s standard components, the living spaces are rotated around a "hinge” point. This design solution addresses the limitations and challenges of a particular site, while highlighting the best aspects of it. HingeHouse considers passive solar orientation depending on where the home is placed on the site and how it is “hinged”. It provides for maximum cross-ventilation from prevailing winds, preserves existing site formations and trees, and works on sloping grades. It addresses specific desired views while mitigating unwanted adjacencies, and provides great flexibility for entry sequences. HingeHouse uses Deck’s standard sloped roof post-and-beam component system to create a lyrical, light-filled home. The western red cedar exterior is sculptural and dynamic. Interior spaces are lofty, with great view potential using Deck’s own custom-made mahogany windows. The “hinge” of the home, where the two building forms come together, has the added benefit of creating a desirable outdoor living room, complete with an outdoor fireplace. The "hinge” provides both a tool for maximizing customization and spatial orientation and a center of activity at the heart of the home. Since this partnership in 2008, Maryann Thompson Architects and MATHISON | MATHISON ARCHITECTS have worked with Acorn Deck House Company on numerous full or partial pre-fab projects in the Boston Area, Western Massachusetts, Maryland and Michigan. We have become an advocate for their services and products because it offers advantages on a variety of levels including schedule, cost and quality. Services provided included visioning, programming, concept design, schematic design, construction documentation and construction administration. Evan’s Role: Project Designer & Project Manager

This design captures the spirit of eclectic modernity—boldly combining texture, form, and soulful detail. It embraces both clean contemporary lines and layered, curated elements, resulting in a space that feels thoughtfully collected, not predictable. Textural richness is at the forefront—soft upholstery pairs with sleek surfaces, and mixed finishes (polished metals, matte woods, and plush textiles) create a tactile and visual dialogue. The contrast between refined and cozy elements builds warmth and sophistication. The layout balances openness with intimacy. Thoughtfully placed furniture and visual rhythms guide movement through the space, allowing each area to feel both connected and distinct. Lighting is composed with subtlety and intention—ambient fixtures and layered lighting gently sculpt the environment. Shadows and highlights enhance the ambiance without overpowering the architectural interplay. This space tells a story of modern living infused with personality. It’s dynamic yet grounded—inviting curiosity, conversation, and comfort in equal measure.

The "Illusionist" kitchen is a 2nd place winner in the prestigious Subzero and Wolf kitchen design contest in the state of Ohio. This tremendous house, which is situated on the lake, boasts a main kitchen and a prep kitchen. Its name was generated from the complete invisibility of the main kitchen's working components, whereas all of the appliances were completely concealed to provide a seamless look allowing for an unconventional look that is streamlined yet completely functional. The goal of the homeowners in the design stages were to simplify a more conventional house layout. A more predictable formal dining room was eliminated creating a merge of the main kitchen with a central eating area. The combining of these two spaces helped to develop the concept that the kitchen was an 'illusion'; accessible when necessary but unnoticed in every other way so there was less of a feel of being in a kitchen and more of a sense of being in a gathering area for family and friends to enjoy. The main kitchen boasts three ovens, a 36" Subzero refrigerator and a 36" Subzero freezer, all of which are paneled with white glass, providing a perfect reflective surface for the lake in the backdrop. The island is dual purposed, housing a sink and a 36" induction Wolf cooktop on one side and providing seating for 10 in a custom built banquette. The light fixture above the custom glass and stainless steel table is the "Etoile" from Terzanni while the massive light fixture over the island is the "Sospesa" from Fabbian and boasts a 2" sheet of glass with inset halogen lighting that is nearly invisible suspended from the 10' ceiling that features a drop ceiling with cove lighting. The prep kitchen, which was the 'workhorse' for everyday use is also a fully functional space, featuring additional 36" Subzero refrigerator and freezer, a 36" oven, microwave, two prep sinks (one in the island and one to the left of the freezer) and a concealed barstool which pulls out from the island and 'disappears' when not in use. A built-in dog feeding station allows for conveniences for all family members of this modern household.

This Fishtown rowhome refresh started with a familiar challenge: a sea of flat, builder-grade finishes in predictable “millennial gray.” Our clients wanted a home that felt layered, lived-in, and full of personality. They desired something that reflected their style, not just a resale checklist. We reworked two full floors to bring in warmth, character, and thoughtful details. On the main level, we introduced rich textures, vintage accents, and a more intentional palette that made a statement. Powerful punches of wallpaper, uniquely different but graciously coordinating, transformed key moments into standout spaces. Upstairs, updates to the kitchen and dining area emphasized comfort, functionality, and bold sophistication. Throughout, we layered in materials with soul: natural woods, warm metals, and handcrafted touches, all while keeping the overall footprint and layout intact. Built-ins in the living area brought much-needed storage, style, and a grounded focal point to anchor the space. The result is a home that feels personal yet timeless. A clear departure from the gray-washed norm.

Happy Place Beach House, Watercolor, FL
Home design - large coastal home design idea in Other

We specialize in LED Lighting Sandra Costa approaches every property as a one-of-a-kind design experience—never repeated, never predictable. Each project is treated as a standalone vision, carefully shaped around the client's individuality, the architecture, and the lifestyle it is meant to elevate. Her work is not driven by trends, but by an instinctive ability to translate personality into environments that feel both effortless and extraordinary. Over the years, Sandra Costa has built a reputation for delivering highly customized designs with precision and integrity—consistently completing projects on time and often under budget. This rare combination of creativity and discipline gives clients exceptional design and confidence throughout the process. The result is more than a finished space—it is a signature environment that reflects a level of thought, care, and originality that cannot be replicated.

This bathroom went with engineered quartz on the vanity. to match the shower walls which gives the whole room one consistent look instead of switching materials halfway up. Quartz is manufactured, so slab to slab the pattern stays predictable. We used an eased edge on the vanity top. It's a simple, soft break on the corners instead of a sharp square or a heavy bullnose. Nothing fancy about it, but that's the point. It doesn't fight with the rest of the room, it doesn't collect grime in a tight profile line, and it wears well over the years without chipping the way a sharp square or some of the more expensive routed edges can. Day to day, this is a low-maintenance room. Quartz resists staining from soap, shampoo, and the usual bathroom products, and it cleans up with basically anything you've already got under the sink. The vanity top holds up fine against everyday use, hairspray, makeup, whatever gets set down on it. It's the kind of surface you install once and don't think about again. We do this kind of work across the Midlands, and a bathroom like this is a good example of why quartz gets specified so often in these spaces. It gives homeowners a durable, consistent, easy-care surface on both the vertical and horizontal parts of the room, and it's ready to use as soon as we're out the door.

Exterior painting and decorating work to the doors are not easy - unseen damage are hard to predict... The repair is not easy but with right knowledge, tools, and specialist product the door and frame will last at least 20 more years. For any enquire regarding exterior work please visit . https://midecor.co.uk/door-painting-services-in-putney/

The brown toile plays nicely off of the deep chocolate venetian finish in the dining room. A purple geode in a contemporary frame keeps it from being too predictable.

Large trendy brown two-story mixed siding exterior home photo in Toronto with a mixed material roof

Norfolk is one of the UK's most charming destinations, known for its peaceful coastlines, historic towns, and beautiful countryside. Every year, thousands of visitors choose to stay in travel lodges across the region — and it's easy to understand why. These accommodations offer convenience, comfort, and value, making them a favourite among solo travellers, couples, and families exploring Eastern England. In this article, we look at the main reasons travellers love staying in travel lodges in Norfolk, and what makes the region such a welcoming place for a relaxing break.
1. Prime Locations Close to Popular Attractions
Travel lodges in Norfolk are often located near the region's top sights, making it easy for visitors to explore without long travel times. Some of the most popular spots nearby include:

• The Norfolk Broads National Park
• Great Yarmouth's sandy beaches
• Norwich Cathedral and historic streets
• Cromer and Sheringham coastal towns
• Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea

Being close to these attractions means travellers save time and enjoy more of their holiday without worrying about complicated transport.
2. Comfortable Rooms at Affordable Prices
One of the biggest reasons travellers love travel lodges is the balance of comfort and affordability. The rooms are clean, modern, and designed for a relaxing stay without the high cost of luxury hotels. This makes them ideal for:

• Weekend trips
• Family holidays
• Road trips
• Business stays

Visitors know they will get a good night's sleep without overspending, which is especially helpful for longer stays when exploring Norfolk's many villages and landmarks. 3. Perfect for Road Trips Around Norfolk Norfolk is a great destination for road trips thanks to its open landscapes and scenic coastal routes. Travel lodges often have:

• Free or affordable parking
• Easy access to major roads
• Nearby restaurants and services

For travellers driving across the region, staying in a lodge makes the journey simple and stress-free. 4. Family-Friendly and Flexible for All Types of Guests Many travel lodges in Norfolk are designed to welcome families and groups. They offer:

• Spacious family rooms
• Extra beds when needed
• Nearby food outlets and supermarkets
• Quiet environments for restful nights

This flexibility is one of the reasons parents choose travel lodges — they are comfortable, predictable, and suitable for all ages. 5. Consistent Quality Across Locations Whether a traveller stays in Norwich, King's Lynn, Great Yarmouth, or the Norfolk Broads area, the experience is usually consistent. People appreciate knowing what to expect:

• Clean rooms
• Reliable service
• Comfortable bedding
• Practical amenities

This consistency builds trust and encourages repeat stays, both within Norfolk and across the UK. 6. Great Base for Exploring Nature and the Coast Many travellers come to Norfolk for nature. From bird-watching at Cley Marshes to long walks along the coast, the region offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Travel lodges make the perfect base for:

• Wildlife trips
• Coastal hikes
• Boat rides on the Broads
• Countryside cycling routes

Visitors can enjoy full days out in nature and return to a comfortable, quiet room. 7. Modern Amenities Without Extra Hassle Travel lodges typically include practical amenities that travellers appreciate, such as:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Comfortable workspaces
• Hot showers
• Tea and coffee facilities

These small but important details make short stays more convenient and enjoyable. Conclusion Travellers love travel lodges in Norfolk because they offer everything people need for an enjoyable stay: excellent locations, affordable comfort, family-friendly features, and easy access to the region's beautiful landscapes. Whether someone is exploring historic Norwich, relaxing on the coast, or discovering the Norfolk Broads, travel lodges provide a simple and reliable

This recently built Unity "Tradd" home on a NH Lake is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle of city life. Enjoying the sunset from the 3-season porch is a perfect way to the end the day. James R Salomon Photograpy

When night falls, however, the visual reading predictably inverts. Exploring this quality, the architect was intrigued with the extent to which the house could become transparent and open when lit from within. Rion Rizzo Photographer

This retired couple loves collecting art on their worldwide travels and didn't want to settle for a predictable look for their new kitchen. We began with the black and gold honed granite they fell in love with, and added the glass tile mosaic back splash and custom mixed metal hood. The result is truly a work of art! Collaboration with Sterling Renovations Matt Ross-photos

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan. The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life. Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection. “From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said. The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process. “Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous." After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there. Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances. The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in. "Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together." The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years. Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space. Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family. “The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said. “Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

September 21st is the first day of Fall. I know we don’t want to think about it yet, but it is good to prepare and get the chimney swept early. Why? According to the Farmer’s Almanac, they are predicting a colder and snowier Winter. But you say, “eh, I got a gas fireplace.” Better yet, “I don’t use my fireplace, so why should I sweep it, and clean it early?” Let’s discuss why all types of chimneys and fireplaces need to be swept. Why Do All Types of Chimney’s and Fireplaces Need to Be Swept? When we think of the fireplace, we picture the real wood burning fireplace with the sounds of crackling wood. With regular use of the wood-burning fireplaces, a byproduct called creosote forms and over time, lines the side of the chimney flue. This needs to be swept at least once per year as creosote is flammable. However, all chimney’s, regardless of whether it burns wood or utilizes gas, needs to be professionally inspected and swept annually. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that a gas or unused chimney is immune to problems since it doesn't produce a byproduct. However, these chimney systems face their own unique dangers. Gas fireplaces, especially those that are high-efficiency, can lead to the buildup of corrosive deposits. Over time, these deposits can degrade your chimney liner. Getting it inspected by a certified chimney technician will control this issue so it doesn’t turn into a problem. 4 Key Reasons to Prioritize Your Annual Chimney Inspection The annual chimney inspection is more than just a sweep; it’s a comprehensive health check for your entire chimney system. We call it the 14 Point Inspection. A certified chimney technician will look for: 1. Fire Hazards: Again, for wood-burning chimneys, the removal of creosote is important to prevent a chimney fire. Gas fireplaces release corrosive deposits. If you don’t use the fireplace, you never know what debris may have settled in. If you want to use the fireplace, please be sure to have it professionally inspected and swept before use. 2. Obstructions: There’s a whole world outside of your home, and especially in the Fall, our little friends are searching for a warm place to stay. Your chimney looks pretty good. And, let’s not forget how the wind in the Chicagoland are does a great job of moving debris around that can get up and under the chimney cap or directly into the chimney if you don’t have a cap. These blockages need to be cleared for you and your home’s protection. 3. Structural Damage: A chimney technician will be able to spot cracks, water damage, or deterioration of the chimney and chimney liner that could compromise the system's safety. 4. Ventilation Issues: Ventilation is key for your home to breathe. The certified chimney technician will ensure proper draft and airflow, which is the best way to get rid of toxic gases. NFPA Remember, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual inspection for all chimney types. This simple, proactive maintenance can save you from costly repairs. Don't wait for a problem to become obvious. Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349 to schedule a 14-Point Chimney inspection to ensure your home and family are protected.

Talk about making a statement! The bold, random pattern of these marble shower tiles makes the dramatic impact that my clients craved for their primary bath. I chose a clean and contemporary chandelier that compliments the tile work, but doesn’t detract. The rectangular facets are suspended in a predictable vertical pattern, vertically, versus the random angles of the wall tile.

Our clients wanted their 1920's Cottage to have a cleaner modern look, while respecting the original architecture. We removed clunky shutters, added a stately iron railing, built-in plant box and vine arbor, updated exterior lighting, added metal window boxes, and gave the house a fresh coat of paint. Rather than go predictable with the new shed, we reversed the color scheme and painted it a warm black. We love the way these simple changes give the 1920's traditional house a crisp, modern vibe.

Sandra Costa approaches every property as a one-of-a-kind design experience—never repeated, never predictable. Each project is treated as a standalone vision, carefully shaped around the client's individuality, the architecture, and the lifestyle it is meant to elevate. Her work is not driven by trends, but by an instinctive ability to translate personality into environments that feel both effortless and extraordinary. Over the years, Sandra Costa has built a reputation for delivering highly customized designs with precision and integrity—consistently completing projects on time and often under budget. This rare combination of creativity and discipline gives clients exceptional design and confidence throughout the process. The result is more than a finished space—it is a signature environment that reflects a level of thought, care, and originality that cannot be replicated.A great room featuring LED lighting and remote control recliner seating. The floors are imported Italian porcelain tile with radiant heated areas.