This completed Port Perry project features a striking interlocking stone driveway that brings a clean, modern look to a classic two-storey brick home. The design showcases large-format, multi-tonal grey concrete pavers laid in a structured, contemporary pattern, complemented by a darker border that neatly frames the driveway and guides the eye toward the garage. The expansive layout creates a grand entrance while maintaining symmetry with the home’s architecture and surrounding landscape. Built with precision, the installation includes a properly prepared base and careful grading to ensure durability and reliable drainage in all seasons. Subtle in-ground lighting along the driveway edges adds both safety and a soft, upscale ambiance in the evening. For the homeowners, the widened driveway offers improved parking and maneuverability, while the interlocking system provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to traditional asphalt. The result is a refined, functional upgrade that enhances curb appeal and adds lasting value to the property.

This completed Port Perry project features a striking interlocking stone driveway that brings a clean, modern look to a classic two-storey brick home. The design showcases large-format, multi-tonal grey concrete pavers laid in a structured, contemporary pattern, complemented by a darker border that neatly frames the driveway and guides the eye toward the garage. The expansive layout creates a grand entrance while maintaining symmetry with the home’s architecture and surrounding landscape. Built with precision, the installation includes a properly prepared base and careful grading to ensure durability and reliable drainage in all seasons. Subtle in-ground lighting along the driveway edges adds both safety and a soft, upscale ambiance in the evening. For the homeowners, the widened driveway offers improved parking and maneuverability, while the interlocking system provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to traditional asphalt. The result is a refined, functional upgrade that enhances curb appeal and adds lasting value to the property.

This completed Port Perry project features a striking interlocking stone driveway that brings a clean, modern look to a classic two-storey brick home. The design showcases large-format, multi-tonal grey concrete pavers laid in a structured, contemporary pattern, complemented by a darker border that neatly frames the driveway and guides the eye toward the garage. The expansive layout creates a grand entrance while maintaining symmetry with the home’s architecture and surrounding landscape. Built with precision, the installation includes a properly prepared base and careful grading to ensure durability and reliable drainage in all seasons. Subtle in-ground lighting along the driveway edges adds both safety and a soft, upscale ambiance in the evening. For the homeowners, the widened driveway offers improved parking and maneuverability, while the interlocking system provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to traditional asphalt. The result is a refined, functional upgrade that enhances curb appeal and adds lasting value to the property.

This completed Port Perry project features a striking interlocking stone driveway that brings a clean, modern look to a classic two-storey brick home. The design showcases large-format, multi-tonal grey concrete pavers laid in a structured, contemporary pattern, complemented by a darker border that neatly frames the driveway and guides the eye toward the garage. The expansive layout creates a grand entrance while maintaining symmetry with the home’s architecture and surrounding landscape. Built with precision, the installation includes a properly prepared base and careful grading to ensure durability and reliable drainage in all seasons. Subtle in-ground lighting along the driveway edges adds both safety and a soft, upscale ambiance in the evening. For the homeowners, the widened driveway offers improved parking and maneuverability, while the interlocking system provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to traditional asphalt. The result is a refined, functional upgrade that enhances curb appeal and adds lasting value to the property.

This completed Port Perry project features a striking interlocking stone driveway that brings a clean, modern look to a classic two-storey brick home. The design showcases large-format, multi-tonal grey concrete pavers laid in a structured, contemporary pattern, complemented by a darker border that neatly frames the driveway and guides the eye toward the garage. The expansive layout creates a grand entrance while maintaining symmetry with the home’s architecture and surrounding landscape. Built with precision, the installation includes a properly prepared base and careful grading to ensure durability and reliable drainage in all seasons. Subtle in-ground lighting along the driveway edges adds both safety and a soft, upscale ambiance in the evening. For the homeowners, the widened driveway offers improved parking and maneuverability, while the interlocking system provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to traditional asphalt. The result is a refined, functional upgrade that enhances curb appeal and adds lasting value to the property.

WE GO TO GREAT LENGTHS TO ENSURE YOUR BASEMENT DESINGN EXPERIENCE IS A SMOOTH AND PLEASANT ONE Top-Notch Basement Design Service for Finishing, Planning or Building Your Basement. So, we’ve prepared these guidelines to give you an idea of what to expect after contract signing. The first step of the process happens a long time before we ever come in. Chances are, if you’re ready to begin your basement re-design, you’ve been dreaming up what you want your basement to look like for a long time now. If you haven’t – that’s ok, too – but now is the time to do so. We’re an idea-driven company and our goal is to take your brainstorms and turn them into actionable basement remodeling plans. Having some clear thoughts and ideas about how you want to transform your basement will be immensely beneficial during the design process, so we encourage you to do jot some of this down before you even begin working with us. Keep in mind that we base our design off of blueprints and measurements of your basement. This is how we ensure that the final plan is perfectly accurate for the builders who will carry out the design. The earlier we have this information, the quicker the design process will be. We encourage you to gather this information before we get started working together so that you’re fully prepared to begin the design process.

ne side of the island allows comfortable seating for four, while the other side boasts spacious storage with 2 deep drawers and 5 cabinets, as well as two key appliances. The photo above shows how food preparation traffic moves from the fridge to island to range and finally sink and dishwasher. The golden triangle in action! An Avallon beverage center is located on the “cold foods” side of the island. This stainless-steel under-counter split-zone refrigerator is sure to please every wine and beer enthusiast. The left side is cooled to 58 degrees for wine, while the right side cools down to 34 degrees for beer. Both sides feature pull-out shelves, and each side is lockable for safety. Moving down to the “warm foods” side of the island is a Thermador microwave drawer, which has easy access from above. We also chose Thermador for our fridge, ovens, gas range and dishwasher.

ne side of the island allows comfortable seating for four, while the other side boasts spacious storage with 2 deep drawers and 5 cabinets, as well as two key appliances. The photo above shows how food preparation traffic moves from the fridge to island to range and finally sink and dishwasher. The golden triangle in action! An Avallon beverage center is located on the “cold foods” side of the island. This stainless-steel under-counter split-zone refrigerator is sure to please every wine and beer enthusiast. The left side is cooled to 58 degrees for wine, while the right side cools down to 34 degrees for beer. Both sides feature pull-out shelves, and each side is lockable for safety. Moving down to the “warm foods” side of the island is a Thermador microwave drawer, which has easy access from above. We also chose Thermador for our fridge, ovens, gas range and dishwasher.

One side of the island allows comfortable seating for four, while the other side boasts spacious storage with 2 deep drawers and 5 cabinets, as well as two key appliances. The photo above shows how food preparation traffic moves from the fridge to island to range and finally sink and dishwasher. The golden triangle in action! An Avallon beverage center is located on the “cold foods” side of the island. This stainless-steel under-counter split-zone refrigerator is sure to please every wine and beer enthusiast. The left side is cooled to 58 degrees for wine, while the right side cools down to 34 degrees for beer. Both sides feature pull-out shelves, and each side is lockable for safety. Moving down to the “warm foods” side of the island is a Thermador microwave drawer, which has easy access from above. We also chose Thermador for our fridge, ovens, gas range and dishwasher.

AFTER: New island adds plenty of surface for meal preparation, entertaining, lots of functional storage & breakfast bar. Two tone cabinets with custom Peppercorn finish on base cabinets. Quartz countertop & glass backsplash, gorgeous porcelain flooring.

Our clients came to us looking to update their dark and tired-looking kitchen. We transformed this space into a bright, functional kitchen perfect for entertaining guests. Cabinets were installed up to the ceiling and finished off with a simple crown moulding. A beverage fridge was incorporated into the space, creating a perfect spot to prepare your favourite cocktail!

The Logan River floor plan is centered around the idea of easy living and shared experiences. Whether your preparing dinner for the family or entertaining friends, this open floor plan keeps all the action in the very heart of your home. Create a dreamy ambiance by opening the double patio doors to a gorgeous Idaho summer evening with soft music and twinkling patio lights. Three bedrooms on the main level and a home office with it’s own double doors checks the another box on the “perfect house” list. If you’re after even more space, this floor plan options with a second floor adding another bedroom and bath, as well as an enormous bonus room. But when you’re ready for quiet seclusion, the primary ensuite checks even more boxes with a large soaking tub, double custom vanity, and a walk-in closet that accesses the laundry room - because making life easier is all in the details.

Barry Grossman
Home yoga studio - mid-sized contemporary home yoga studio idea in Miami with gray walls

Maintaining a pest-free home requires attention throughout the year. Seasonal changes affect pest behavior, and understanding these patterns can save homeowners from costly damage and health hazards. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for spring pest prevention tips, ensuring your property stays protected through every season. From spotting early signs to implementing proactive measures, these steps empower homeowners to take control before infestations occur. Understanding Seasonal Pest Patterns Pests adapt to changing weather, and knowing their patterns helps prevent infestations effectively. Spring: Awakening Pests Spring signals the end of winter dormancy for many pests. Rodents, ants, and termites start seeking food and warmth. Effective spring pest prevention tips include: ● Cleaning gutters and removing debris ● Sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls ● Inspecting wood piles and compost areas ● Monitoring early signs of termite activity Pro Tip: Conduct a termite inspection or a professional evaluation to catch infestations early before they spread. Summer: Peak Pest Season Warm temperatures accelerate pest breeding cycles. For a comprehensive summer pest prevention guide: ● Maintain lawns and trim vegetation away from homes ● Check window and door screens for tears ● Store food in sealed containers ● Inspect water sources that attract mosquitoes Do You Know? Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a teaspoon of water. Eliminating stagnant water is crucial to reducing their population. Fall: Preparing for Winter As temperatures drop, pests search for warm indoor spaces. Key actions include: ● Inspecting for winter rodent entry points ● Sealing attic vents, crawl spaces, and foundation gaps ● Cleaning storage areas to minimize hiding spots ● Checking chimney and fireplace openings Quick Fact: Rodents can enter homes through openings as small as ¼ inch. Seasonal Pest Checklist for Homeowners Creating a structured seasonal pest checklist simplifies preventive measures and ensures nothing is overlooked. Season Key Actions Spring Inspect for termites, seal exterior gaps, clean gutters, and check compost Summer Repair screens, trim vegetation, remove standing water, and secure food Fall Seal entry points, inspect attic/crawlspace, clear debris, and prepare storage Winter Monitor indoor activity, keep firewood away from walls, and maintain traps Inspection & Maintenance Tips ● Schedule annual pest inspections by professional Virginia pest control consultation to detect hidden problems ● Keep a log of pest sightings and treatment dates ● Regularly replace weather stripping and caulk cracks Note: Even small preventive steps, when consistently applied, drastically reduce infestations. Common Pests and Their Seasonal Behaviors Understanding how different pests behave each season helps homeowners take timely action to protect their property. ● Ants and Termites: Ants emerge in spring seeking food, while termites become active and can damage wood unnoticed. Early detection is critical. ● Rodents and Mice: Fall and winter increase rodent intrusions. Block all entry points and keep food sealed. ● Mosquitoes and Flies: Summer creates the ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water and use physical barriers like nets. ● Spiders and Other Insects: Seasonal shifts cause spiders to move indoors. Regular vacuuming and decluttering reduce hiding spots. Eco-Friendly Prevention Methods ● Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth ● Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to reduce pest populations ● Plant pest-deterring plants near home boundaries, like marigolds or lavender Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Adopt an IPM approach by combining physical barriers, monitoring, and environmentally safe treatments. This minimizes chemical use while maintaining a pest-free home. Quote: “Prevention is the most effective form of pest control.” – National Pest Management Association Seasonal Pest Prevention Tools ● Snap traps and humane rodent traps ● Sticky traps for insects ● Outdoor perimeter sprays (eco-friendly) ● Moisture meters to detect early termite or mold problems Pro Tip: Keep tools organized and accessible to act quickly when pest activity is noticed. Planning: Annual Pest Calendar Month Recommended Action March-April Spring pest prevention tips: Inspect, seal, clean gutters June-July Summer pest prevention guide: Screens, standing water, food storage September Seasonal pest checklist: Seal entries, declutter, prep storage November Winter rodent entry points: Monitor indoors, maintain traps Key Takeaways ● Seasonal awareness prevents infestations and property damage ● Consistent inspections and maintenance are essential ● Simple eco-friendly measures can significantly reduce pests ● Use a structured checklist and calendar for effective prevention Conclusion Homeowners who stay proactive and follow spring pest prevention tips, along with year-round monitoring, ensure their properties remain safe and comfortable. Using a summer pest prevention guide, checking winter rodent entry points, and maintaining a seasonal pest checklist ensure your home remains safe and comfortable. Remember to combine inspections, physical barriers, and environmentally friendly methods for the best results. FAQs Q1: How often should I perform a termite inspection? A1: Conduct inspections annually, especially in spring, to detect early signs of termite activity and prevent extensive damage. Q2: Can pests enter my home during winter? A2: Yes, rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter indoors. Sealing entry points and monitoring for activity is crucial. Q3: What is the most effective eco-friendly method for pest prevention? A3: Using natural repellents, encouraging beneficial insects, and eliminating water sources effectively reduces pest populations without chemicals. Ensure your home is ready for every season. Schedule a professional Virginia pest control consultation or a termite inspection in Suffolk, VA, today and stay ahead of potential infestations.

This kitchen was fabricated by Lapptops and the cabinets were done by King's Woodwork! http://lapptops.net/ This kitchen features Calacatta marble with a polished finish on the island. The surrounding countertops are absolute black granite with a honed finish. This kitchen is so clean and bright! Search "calacatta" or "black", see variations of this marble & granite, or other stone options: http://www.stoneaction.com Learn more about granite to see if it’s right for you: Granite countertops can last a lifetime. It contains no harmful chemicals and do not emit harmful radiation or gasses. Granite is heat resistant and is one of the most heat-resistant countertops on the market. You can place a hot pan out of the oven directly onto the countertop surface. Experts do recommend the use of a trivet when using appliances that emit heat for long periods of time, such as crockpots. Since the material is so dense, there is a small possibility heating one area of the top and not the entire thing, could cause the countertop to crack. Granite is scratch resistant. You can cut on it, but it will dull your knives! Granite scores a seven on Moh’s hardness scale. Granite countertops are considered to be a low maintenance countertop surface. The likelihood of needing to be repaired or resurfaced is low. Granite is a porous material. Most fabricators will apply a sealer to granite countertops before they are installed which will protect them from absorbing liquids too quickly. Many sealers last more than 10 years before needing to be reapplied. When they do need to be reapplied, it is something that most homeowners can do on their own as the process is similar to cleaning. Darker granites are very dense and sometimes don’t even require a sealer. When it comes to pricing, there are a lot of variables such as edge profile, total square footage, backsplash, etc. Don’t be fooled by the stereotype that all granite is expensive. Lower-range granites will cost less than high-range laminate. Though granite countertops are not considered “low range” in pricing, there are a lot of affordable options. If you are looking for something truly unique, consider an exotic granite. Some quarries are not easily accessible and/or only able to be quarried for short periods of time throughout the year. If these circumstances exist in a quarry with gorgeous stone, the price will be driven upward. You won’t find a lot of solid patterns or bright colors, but both do exist. Also, watch for a large range of color and pattern within the same color of stone. It’s always a good idea to view the exact slab(s) that will be fabricated for your kitchen to make sure they are what you expected to see from the sample. Another factor is that many exotic types of granite have huge flowing waves, and a small sample will not be an accurate representation of the whole slab. Granite countertops are very resistant to chemicals. Acids and bases will not harm the material. Understanding Marble: Marble is a porous, high-maintenance surface. Be prepared to see some scratches. Marble is a softer stone. However, marble is still so beautiful with the scratches! If you’ve ever gone to Italy, you can see the beautiful marble on floors and many restaurants. It’s a classic lasting look. Even with scratches. If you don't mind the extra work, they are a beautiful addition. Marble has a multifaceted ability to work with so many different design styles. If you're a homeowner looking for a wipe-and-go countertop, though, you'll probably want to skip this one. It's cost-effective, depending on the type of marble you buy. Carrara marble (a grayer version with softer veins from Carrara, Italy) is one of the least expensive natural countertop materials on the market, mainly because it's readily available. Calacatta marble, which offers a whiter surface and more dramatic veining, and the price tag goes up. Marble is heat-resistant — which is great — but you still need to be careful. Marble is heat resistant. Despite its ability to withstand high temps, you never want to place a piping hot pot on for risk of discoloring or burning the surface. We recommend always using a pot holder anyways. We don’t want to dissuade you from using marble. In fact, I personally have a marble island in my kitchen. Stone Action solely wants you to be informed so that you’re choosing the right material for your project. We hope you personally come check out our marble or other stone selection! See more marble or other types of Stone Action’s stone selection: http://www.stoneaction.com

2011 CAPITAL COTY AWARD HONORABLE MENTION AWARD WINNER Built circa 1980, a young couple with three children originally purchased this home for their growing family. After four years of karate, soccer, piano and other activities, however, the home was becoming too small to meet their needs. Problems started upon entering the front foyer. A 25-foot long dark hallway separated the family room and the kitchen, ending in a tiny powder room stuck in the middle of the layout. The kitchen was especially isolated, a cramped L-shaped design with a box bay breakfast bump out that was literally falling apart. The new design started with the core of the problem—the maze and separation created by the long hallways. First, the 25’ load bearing wall separating the foyer from family room was totally taken out and replaced with a long supporting beam. A French door replaced a small door and window leading to a screen porch . This action allowed lots of light to get into family and foyer. Then, the powder room was removed and the partition wall between the kitchen and family room was taken down. This created a large open concept design and greatly increased the size of the kitchen. The box bay was demolished and replaced with new walls and a large window. The plumbing for main sink and dishwasher got relocated into this box bay allowing a total transformation of the space. Now there are cabinets and counters on all sides. The doorway to the dining room was reconfigured to allow a butler area on its left. While the right side was occupied with new 36” gas range top with a decorative wood hood above it. The refrigerator, microwave/oven and pantries—the space’s tall elements—occupy one wall.. A large Island with a prep sink and beverage center for the kids occupies the center of the layout. Capable of seating up to four, family and friends can now keep the cook company. A large built-in desk area lets the kids do their homework so the parents can supervise while they prepare meals. Light cabinetry with a touch of caramel glazing and exotic granite countertops by our designers contributed to this kitchen’s elegant design. The contrasting distressed island’s darker finish matches the dinette set and other furnishings. New hardwood floors were installed throughout the first floor for a seamless look, while recess, pendant and task lighting make the space even brighter. Importantly, there’s plenty of space for parents and kids to hang out together. The kitchen is truly the heart of their home.

It begins with a 3 ft. X 7 ft. island with white panel cabinets, brushed nickel hardware and Granite countertop. For my personal projects, I prefer Granite over Quartz for kitchen countertops. Quartz contains 92% aggregate and 8% high-grade epoxies. Sometimes setting a hot pan or plate on a Quartz counter will leave a permanent mark. Three pendant lights over the island provide the right design touch, while several recessed lights and under-cabinet lighting throughout adds to the ambience. And as always, all lights are on dimmers. One side of the island allows comfortable seating for four, while the other side boasts spacious storage with 2 deep drawers and 5 cabinets, as well as two key appliances. The photo above shows how food preparation traffic moves from the fridge to island to range and finally sink and dishwasher. The golden triangle in action! An Avallon beverage center is located on the “cold foods” side of the island. This stainless-steel under-counter split-zone refrigerator is sure to please every wine and beer enthusiast. The left side is cooled to 58 degrees for wine, while the right side cools down to 34 degrees for beer. Both sides feature pull-out shelves, and each side is lockable for safety. Moving down to the “warm foods” side of the island is a Thermador microwave drawer, which has easy access from above. We also chose Thermador for our fridge, ovens, gas range and dishwasher.

A gorgeous kitchen showcasing a brand new color palette of gray and bold blue! As this was the client’s childhood home, we wanted to preserve her memories while still refreshing the interior and bringing it up-to-date. We started with a new spatial layout and increased the size of wall openings to create the sense of an open plan without removing all the walls. By adding a more functional layout and pops of color throughout the space, we were able to achieve a youthful update to a cherished space without losing all the character and memories that the homeowner loved. Designed by Joy Street Design serving Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, and the whole of the East Bay. For more about Joy Street Design, click here: https://www.joystreetdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.joystreetdesign.com/portfolio/randolph-street

The living room has our Crema Marfil coffee table. The kitchen has a Typhoon Bordeaux granite that blends perfectly with the cherry cabinets and wooden floors. See more crema marfil marble: http://stoneaction.net/website/?s=crema+marfil See more Typhoon Bordeaux granite: http://stoneaction.net/website/?s=typhoon+bordeaux Project completed by Jcabido Remodeling! http://jcabidoremodeling.com/