Search results for "Preventative care" in Home Design Ideas

The Arcadia Louvered Roof enhances the beauty of any style home and provides the flexibility of having an open roof when the weather is good or a solid roof to keep the rain off your patio when the weather turns bad.
Eco-friendly Construction
The Arcadia system is made up of recycled aluminum making it an extremely Green product. It is also eco-friendly, helping consumers save on passive solar heating and cooling.
We Think Green
Arcadia is proud to continue the company's tradition with its approach to Environmental Innovation. From the choice of lightweight materials and lean production methods to the efficiency of its drive system and designs, Arcadia is committed to operating as a more sustainable business and reducing its overall environmental impact.
High-quality Building Materials
Each Arcadia system is a work of art, constructed with care and attention to every little detail.
Our system is powered coated, extruded aluminum with stainless steel components giving us the most durable louvered roof on the market today. From our superior drive system, which is UL & CE certified, down to the stainless steel tex screws that secures the system together. Nothing but the best!
Our low-maintenance components eliminate painting, staining, and waterproofing of traditional shading structures. Using powder-coated aluminum construction prevents warping, cracking, and corrosion.

The Setup
The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home.
The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic.
Design Objectives:
Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously
Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices
Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”)
Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows)
Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed
Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space
Design Challenges:
The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way
The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like
The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly
Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging
The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall
Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views)
Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available
The Renewed Space
Design Solutions:
The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced
Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island
The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas
The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic
Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently
The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people
Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery
This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.

Scenes from Æsop's Fables in brown. Make your BlissPillow your own (and prevent it's overuse by your loved ones) and choose your pre-washed case for easy care and fun customization. In 100% conventional cotton, double-stitched for years of use. All printed fabrics vary from inch to inch, so photos are approximate. Very scenic. Photo by Blissimage
Find the right local pro for your project

Design ideas for a large tropical full sun front yard brick formal garden in Miami.

Attention to detail is important to us, and we'll take care of your landscaping just as if it was our own. We take extra precautions to prevent paint drips or spray from getting onto unwanted surfaces or plants.

This backyard paradise began with a muddy site, with all the grading sloping directly to the proposed poolside patio. The design for this outdoor living area would need to incorporate many challenges:
* The grading issues would be corrected with retaining walls, which would create a warm yet expansive area and provide additional seating.
* The pillars would require careful notching to insert the hardware for the pool gate.
* The patio would need to incorporate stormwater storage underneath.
* The edge of the poolside patio would require stabilization to prevent future settlement adjacent to the concrete pool deck.

Diehl Concrete is a local Denver business that prides itself in quality decorative work such as custom stamped concrete patios. The owner, Ryan Diehl, plays a hands-on part throughout the entire process. With over 15 years of experience in creating beautiful outdoor spaces, along with his un-compromised integrity, Diehl Concrete is a wise choice for your project.
There are countless examples of his work throughout Colorado, including Denver, Aurora, Brighton, Boulder, and Evergreen. Call today and Ryan Diehl will personally evaluate your project, answer your questions, and provide a free quote.
Benefits of Stamped Concrete Patios:
Affordability: Stamped concrete patios are much more affordable when compared to brick pavers or natural stone. Fortunately, This lower cost doesn’t lack durability or beauty.
Longevity: Concrete typically lasts longer than alternative patio materials. To ensure durability, Diehl Concrete will take the extra steps to reduce cracking. We will take great care in preparing your concrete sub-grade with proper compaction, and road base as well as rebar reinforcement within the concrete. Finally, expansion joints will be strategically placed to minimize and prevent cracking.
Color and Pattern Options: The sky is truly the limit on color choices and patterns for stamped concrete patios.
Shape: Due to its versatility of the substance, concrete offers homeowners the ability to create any type of shape they would like. Would you like curves, planting beds, or even a fire pit incorporated into your stamped concrete patio? No problem.
Low Maintenance: To maintain the look and uphold the durability, a once yearly sealer may be applied. This is something you can do yourself, or we can seal your patio for you.
Increased home resale value. Decorative concrete adds curb appeal and aesthetic value to your home, allowing you to maximize the return on your investment.

Diehl Concrete is a local Denver business that prides itself in quality decorative work such as custom stamped concrete patios. The owner, Ryan Diehl, plays a hands-on part throughout the entire process. With over 15 years of experience in creating beautiful outdoor spaces, along with his un-compromised integrity, Diehl Concrete is a wise choice for your project.
There are countless examples of his work throughout Colorado, including Denver, Aurora, Brighton, Boulder, and Evergreen. Call today and Ryan Diehl will personally evaluate your project, answer your questions, and provide a free quote.
Benefits of Stamped Concrete Patios:
Affordability: Stamped concrete patios are much more affordable when compared to brick pavers or natural stone. Fortunately, This lower cost doesn’t lack durability or beauty.
Longevity: Concrete typically lasts longer than alternative patio materials. To ensure durability, Diehl Concrete will take the extra steps to reduce cracking. We will take great care in preparing your concrete sub-grade with proper compaction, and road base as well as rebar reinforcement within the concrete. Finally, expansion joints will be strategically placed to minimize and prevent cracking.
Color and Pattern Options: The sky is truly the limit on color choices and patterns for stamped concrete patios.
Shape: Due to its versatility of the substance, concrete offers homeowners the ability to create any type of shape they would like. Would you like curves, planting beds, or even a fire pit incorporated into your stamped concrete patio? No problem.
Low Maintenance: To maintain the look and uphold the durability, a once yearly sealer may be applied. This is something you can do yourself, or we can seal your patio for you.
Increased home resale value. Decorative concrete adds curb appeal and aesthetic value to your home, allowing you to maximize the return on your investment.

Area rug cleaning is important for several reasons. We believe maintaining proper care of your rug by regular washing will remove dirt, stains and dust that can build up over time and lay in the foundation of your rug. Regular rug cleaning will help maintain a healthy living environment, preventing dust mites, bacteria and other allergens from living in your rug. At Kaoud Carpet & Rugs in Wilton, all rug washing is performed by hand and on premise. Special attention is given solely to your rug by one of our cleaning team. There are no large tubs of liquids that will merge from other rug cleaning jobs. We use a hand washing technique and are able to closely monitor the washing process step by step. Regular washing will also help maintain the value of your rug.

The Arcadia Louvered Roof enhances the beauty of any style home and provides the flexibility of having an open roof when the weather is good or a solid roof to keep the rain off your patio when the weather turns bad.
Eco-friendly Construction
The Arcadia system is made up of recycled aluminum making it an extremely Green product. It is also eco-friendly, helping consumers save on passive solar heating and cooling.
We Think Green
Arcadia is proud to continue the company's tradition with its approach to Environmental Innovation. From the choice of lightweight materials and lean production methods to the efficiency of its drive system and designs, Arcadia is committed to operating as a more sustainable business and reducing its overall environmental impact.
High-quality Building Materials
Each Arcadia system is a work of art, constructed with care and attention to every little detail.
Our system is powered coated, extruded aluminum with stainless steel components giving us the most durable louvered roof on the market today. From our superior drive system, which is UL & CE certified, down to the stainless steel tex screws that secures the system together. Nothing but the best!
Our low-maintenance components eliminate painting, staining, and waterproofing of traditional shading structures. Using powder-coated aluminum construction prevents warping, cracking, and corrosion.
Photographed by: Roger Chafin

This newly completed residence is located on Sanibel Island on a unique bayou site with western exposure for a perfect view of the sunset.
The main entry is a long narrow drive that was planted with seven large native live oaks to create an oak canopy with a native hammock understory consisting of native shrubs and ferns for a tunnel like entry experience. Three large curved coconuts sit at the drive terminus and frame the view of the entry lawn and landscape at the front of the residence.
There was a strong emphasis on incorporating native palms and vegetation into a Zen-inspired garden feel. Native paurotis palms and green and silver thrinax palms were carefully specified and trimmed for use as architectural elements on the tall exterior walls. Tropical bamboo of many different varieties were incorporated into the buffers for both ambiance and screening purposes. Landscape grasses and bromeliad species were planted for interest along the front entry way.
Native shrubs and perennial dune grasses and groundcovers were incorporated into the side yard buffer and in the back yard on the berm at the bayou edge to blend the built element into the natural landscape. The sodded area in the back and side yards functions as stormwater detention area and prevents stormwater from running directly into the ecological sensitive bayou.
All City of Sanibel codes were met for this environmentally and ecosystem rich site including holding and mitigating stormwater runoff on site and meeting the 75% native plant requirement in all vegetation categories.

Could a dreadful dishwasher leak be a blessing in disguise?
The Redding kitchen was very odd. The house was a beautiful brick house from the early 1900’s, but the kitchen had been renovated since then with an impractical layout. It worked, but, for as much time as Mr. and Mrs. spend in the kitchen, it left much to be desired. Because they enjoy cooking so much, they dreamed of having a functional kitchen that added to the character of the home and respected the history of it.
So that’s why Mr. and Mrs. went to a Lancaster Home Show where they meet ALL Renovation & Design. They were impressed with our process which guides clients through the design phase in a unique way that guarantees a customized remodel, tailored to their dreams. We really hit it off, but, since they were still in the idea stage, the years passed quickly.
Then one morning they discovered a puddle under the dishwasher. And, as is often the case, the damage had already spread to the surrounding cabinets and a large area of the floor. And upon further inspection, it was discovered that part of the floor was made with asbestos – which would require expert remediation. This was turning into a major rehab project.
That’s when they were faced with a tough call: do they patch it up now and rip it out in a few years when they remodel the entire kitchen, or, do they remodel now? They called ALL Renovation & Design.
First we worked with the insurance company to raise the damage claim to what it would have actually cost to repair the damage done by the leak… several thousand dollars higher than what they had initially appraised it.
Then we guided Mr. and Mrs. through the design process that carefully articulated the goals and vision for the new kitchen. Functionality and complementing the home’s character were top priority. They were extremely pleased with the help we provided in guiding them through the cabinet choices, layout, and color selections.
Communication was key. Especially when we got into the demolition and construction work. One thing you can be sure of when working with older homes is that there are almost always surprises between the walls. For the Redding kitchen it took the form of a steel support beam that we discovered on the second day of demolition. Because it prevented us from opening up the doorway, we had to pivot and adjust the cabinet spacing. Electrical access was also a serious problem that required added creativity to be sure the new space would include all the functionality of a modern kitchen. But all the challenges were overcome through creativity and almost constant communication.
At last, it was complete. Together we transformed the space into a beautiful transitional kitchen that is a joy to work in.
The maple cabinets with full-overlay doors were painted in matte white with copper hardware. The countertop and backsplash were Hanstone Quartz in the Strato color. It included a 30” single-basin sink in 14-gauge hammered copper. For the floor they chose Lauzan Maple Hardwood in the Sahara finish, installed in the herringbone pattern. And to really set off the kitchen, the old appliances were replaced with new GE Café appliances in their classy matte white with brushed copper accents.

After two years of fighting with a failing pond liner, the resident decided to replace the liner in the pond. This 150’ x 115’pond sat above and flowed into a larger pond which was lined with PVC liner. We were replacing this with a 45 mil epdm fishsafe rubber liner. This presented a problem: there is no way to adhere the new rubber liner to the existing PVC liner in the lower pond. The solution was to pour a cement 18” wide x 2’ deep footing next to the wier damn between the two ponds in order to connect the two liners together. The old liner was placed on the top of the footing and a water-block sealant was used. The new rubber liner was placed on top and another layer of sealant along with stainless steel bars were laid atop the two materials in order to press them together to maintain a water-tight junction. A drain tile system was installed beneath the liner to relieve ground water pressure and vent off any gasses. Water tight seals also had to be provided for multiple plumbing penetrations through the liner. Non-woven geotextile planting media bags were used to prevent erosion around the perimeter of the pond. As the pond was landscaped with lawn and perennials, these had to be removed and preserved and maintained throughout the project in order to return them upon completion of the lining. All trenching work and removal of plant material was done by hand in order to maintain the surrounding landscape; great care was taken throughout the project in order to protect existing hard and softscape, so that upon completion, the area appeared almost exactly as it had been before work began.
Photo by Larry Carnes

This kitchen belongs to a lively young family of five (soon to be six) in New Rochelle New York. When meeting the family to discuss the kitchen renovation, the request was simple, yet required careful planning. They wanted a beautiful high end kitchen that would be not only child friendly but one that would give their children the feeling that this is a space for them to use freely. And so the kitchen was designed.
All countertops and backsplash, including the sink apron and the kitchen hood, are made out of a Dekton porcelain, a material that is both heat, scratch and stain resistant. Thanks to ever evolving technologies, it not only looks like stone, but feels like it as well. A secret compartment with a pouch magnet on the panel wall contains a three tier step-stool for reaching the upper cabinets while those are equipped with pulldown shelves to utilize all spaces with easy access.
The breakfast room table has a custom glass top created to prevent wear and tear of the table while the chairs are made of leather and can easily be wiped off.
Two breathable fruit drawers.

The Campbell family bought this New Hampshire lake side property to build a family summer residence. The home was integrated into the landscape and takes advantage of views as well as solar gain. The configuration of the rooms allows each family member to enjoy their own private spaces in both winter and summer months.
The Residence is a timber frame using Douglas fir from Washington State, where the Campbell's live. The home is wrapped with a wide porch with screened in areas. One corner overlooking the lake has an outdoor fire place integrated into the porch timber framing. This provides a wonderful outdoor fire experience under the roof.
The large open concept living and dining room is lit by dormers from above. This two story space is bordered by the stairs to the second floor with a half round look out, all timber framed.
The home is well insulated throughout using blown-in cellulose and the foundation insulation was carefully configured to prevent thermal breaks. In addition to the custom timber frame, a variety of custom built-in furniture elements were constructed using a variety of wood types depending on lighting and location.

Luxury Basement Remodel Featuring Spa, Home Gym, Gun Room, and Full Kitchen
This luxury basement remodel redefines what a lower level can be, transforming unused square footage into a fully immersive lifestyle environment. Designed with intention, precision, and premium materials, this space blends wellness, security, fitness, and entertainment into one cohesive custom basement design that feels elevated, warm, and unmistakably high-end.
From the moment you enter, this luxury basement remodel feels open and expansive. Wide-plank flooring flows seamlessly throughout the space, creating visual continuity while adding warmth rarely seen in traditional basements. Clean architectural lines and thoughtful zoning allow each area to stand on its own while still feeling connected as part of a complete design.
Basement Spa and Sauna Retreat
A standout feature of this luxury basement remodel is the private basement spa, designed to deliver a true retreat experience within the home. The custom glass-enclosed sauna acts as both a functional wellness feature and a striking architectural element. Natural wood surfaces wrap the interior, bringing warmth, texture, and a calming atmosphere that mirrors high-end resort spas.
Integrated LED lighting enhances the natural wood grain while providing soft, ambient illumination. The stone sauna heater anchors the space visually while delivering consistent heat for daily use. Glass walls allow light to flow freely, preventing the space from feeling closed in and reinforcing the open feel of the overall custom basement design.
This basement spa was designed not as an accessory, but as a core component of the luxury basement remodel—supporting health, relaxation, and everyday wellness.
Custom Gun Room and Secure Display Space
Security meets craftsmanship in the custom gun room, a defining element of this luxury basement remodel. Designed to function as both a secure storage solution and a refined display space, the room balances protection with presentation.
Precision-mounted wall panels allow firearms and accessories to be displayed in a clean, organized layout. Integrated LED lighting highlights each piece while adding depth and contrast to the room. Custom wood framing ties the space into the broader custom basement design, ensuring visual consistency throughout the project.
Lower cabinetry provides concealed storage while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. Climate control and security were integrated seamlessly, creating a room that is as practical as it is visually impressive.
Home Gym Basement with Professional Design
This home gym basement was designed to rival commercial fitness facilities while maintaining the comfort and privacy of a residential environment. The layout supports strength training, functional workouts, and cardio without feeling crowded or overwhelming.
Mirrored walls expand the space visually and provide practical training feedback. Heavy-duty flooring absorbs impact and minimizes noise, making the gym ideal for daily use. Overhead, a custom LED grid ceiling delivers even, shadow-free lighting, elevating both functionality and aesthetics.
As part of the overall luxury basement remodel, the gym connects naturally to adjacent spaces, reinforcing the idea that fitness is integrated into everyday living—not isolated or hidden away.
Basement with Full Kitchen and Entertaining Space
Designed for hosting and everyday use, the basement with full kitchen anchors the entertainment zone of this luxury basement remodel. Custom cabinetry offers ample storage while maintaining clean lines and a refined appearance. Premium countertops provide durability and visual impact, serving as both a workspace and gathering point.
Integrated appliances ensure full functionality without disrupting the design. Layered lighting enhances usability and atmosphere, making the kitchen equally suited for casual evenings or large gatherings.
This basement with full kitchen allows the space to function independently from the main level, adding both convenience and long-term value.
Luxury Tile Basement Details
Tile plays a key role throughout this luxury tile basement, serving as a design feature rather than just a finish. Carefully selected tile textures and patterns add depth and visual interest to accent walls and functional areas.
Each tile installation was executed with precision, showcasing clean transitions and expert craftsmanship. The tile selections complement the surrounding wood and stone elements, reinforcing the layered material palette that defines this custom basement design.
Craftsmanship That Defines the Space
What sets this luxury basement remodel apart is the attention to detail in every element. Custom millwork, seamless trim transitions, and intentional lighting design elevate the space beyond typical basement renovations.
Ceilings are treated as design features, walls are crisp and refined, and built-in elements feel integrated rather than added. This level of craftsmanship ensures the basement feels timeless, durable, and thoughtfully designed.
A Custom Basement Design Built for Lifestyle
This project demonstrates how a custom basement design can become one of the most valuable and lived-in areas of a home. By combining a basement spa, secure gun room, home gym basement, basement with full kitchen, and luxury tile finishes, this space delivers unmatched versatility and comfort.
This luxury basement remodel is not simply an upgrade—it is a complete transformation that enhances daily living while adding long-term value.

Our clients are seasoned home renovators. Their Malibu oceanside property was the second project JRP had undertaken for them. After years of renting and the age of the home, it was becoming prevalent the waterfront beach house, needed a facelift. Our clients expressed their desire for a clean and contemporary aesthetic with the need for more functionality. After a thorough design process, a new spatial plan was essential to meet the couple’s request. This included developing a larger master suite, a grander kitchen with seating at an island, natural light, and a warm, comfortable feel to blend with the coastal setting.
Demolition revealed an unfortunate surprise on the second level of the home: Settlement and subpar construction had allowed the hillside to slide and cover structural framing members causing dangerous living conditions. Our design team was now faced with the challenge of creating a fix for the sagging hillside. After thorough evaluation of site conditions and careful planning, a new 10’ high retaining wall was contrived to be strategically placed into the hillside to prevent any future movements.
With the wall design and build completed — additional square footage allowed for a new laundry room, a walk-in closet at the master suite. Once small and tucked away, the kitchen now boasts a golden warmth of natural maple cabinetry complimented by a striking center island complete with white quartz countertops and stunning waterfall edge details. The open floor plan encourages entertaining with an organic flow between the kitchen, dining, and living rooms. New skylights flood the space with natural light, creating a tranquil seaside ambiance. New custom maple flooring and ceiling paneling finish out the first floor.
Downstairs, the ocean facing Master Suite is luminous with breathtaking views and an enviable bathroom oasis. The master bath is modern and serene, woodgrain tile flooring and stunning onyx mosaic tile channel the golden sandy Malibu beaches. The minimalist bathroom includes a generous walk-in closet, his & her sinks, a spacious steam shower, and a luxurious soaking tub. Defined by an airy and spacious floor plan, clean lines, natural light, and endless ocean views, this home is the perfect rendition of a contemporary coastal sanctuary.
PROJECT DETAILS:
• Style: Contemporary
• Colors: White, Beige, Yellow Hues
• Countertops: White Ceasarstone Quartz
• Cabinets: Bellmont Natural finish maple; Shaker style
• Hardware/Plumbing Fixture Finish: Polished Chrome
• Lighting Fixtures: Pendent lighting in Master bedroom, all else recessed
• Flooring:
Hardwood - Natural Maple
Tile – Ann Sacks, Porcelain in Yellow Birch
• Tile/Backsplash: Glass mosaic in kitchen
• Other Details: Bellevue Stand Alone Tub
Photographer: Andrew, Open House VC

The photos on this page are of a Sandstone Kitchen floor at a house in the High Green suburb of Sheffield. The Sandstone tiles looked grubby and needed some love and attention. Our client was getting fed up trying to keep the stone clean, particularly around the kitchen area where cleaning didn’t seem to make much. You can see how dirty it had become on the before picture below, this is stark contrast to the middle of the of the kitchen where the portable kitchen island normally sits.
I went to the property to get a better look at the problem floor and carried out a small test clean to see which products and methods would have the best impact. The patch came up really clean without much difficulty, so I was confident on being able to restore its appearance.
It was clear to me the original protective sealer had worn off and dirt had become ingrained in the pores of the stone where it was proving difficult to remove. My client was very encouraged by the test clean initial result and agreed to go ahead with the quote. We arranged a suitable time to carry out the work on a day when the family would be out of the way.
I started by taping up the area to make sure the skirting and woodwork were protected from splashing. Once done a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Pro-Clean was sprayed onto Sandstone tile and grout. It was left to dwell for approximately ten minutes to help break down all the grime and dirt and was then worked into the stone using a rotary floor machine fitted with a stiff bristled brush.
This method totally transformed the dull sandstone, the stunning sandstone colours started to leap out and I could see the stone was well on its way to being transformed. The floor was then rinsed several times with water and the now soiled cleaning solution carefully removed with an industrial wet vacuum.
With the floor clean I inspected all the tiles and repeated the process until I was happy the floor was total clean. I should mention It’s not always this easy to clean a stone floor and quite often I find myself having to utilise all sorts of products and methods before I’m totally satisfied it’s as clean as it could possibly be.
With the cleaning done I left the floor to dry out overnight aided with heaters and air blowers.
I returned to seal the floor the next day checking first that the stone was dry with a damp meter. Leaving the blowers on overnight had helped and the readings I took from the floor confirmed it was now ready for sealing.
Earlier I had discussed the different types of sealer available with my clients and they had chosen to have the floor sealed with Tile Doctor Seal & Go. This works really well on Sandstone, enhancing its appearance, improving colour and of course adding protection to the stone to prevent grime and dirt stuck in the pores of the stone. Several coats were applied until I could see if was fully sealed and the right level of finish had been achieved. Sealing a floor can take some time as you need to allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
Once done the floor looked meticulously clean and the new sealer had added a lovely subtle sheen to the stone. My client was very please with the transformation and left the following feedback.
‘Very professional approach, friendly, and offered great advice throughout the job. Very pleased with the finish Cheers Matt we will see you again’
One of the problems we find with many homeowners is that for cleaning they use strong bleach-based cleaning product on their sealed tiles, and this actually strips off the sealer leaving the stone vulnerable to ingrained dirt. As a result, Tile Doctor has developed Tile Doctor Neutral Tile Cleaner, it is pH neutral and gentle enough for everyday use without affecting the sealer.
Matthew Lovett
South Yorkshire Tile Doctor

Carefully-planned recessed undercabinet lights highlight the gorgeous Walker-Zanger tiles used for the backsplash and illuminate the workspace. Clear glass containers and cake stand prevent the backsplash from being covered up by necessary countertop items.
Photo Credit: Connie Segura
Photo Credit: Connie Segura

The Campbell family bought this New Hampshire lake side property to build a family summer residence. The home was integrated into the landscape and takes advantage of views as well as solar gain. The configuration of the rooms allows each family member to enjoy their own private spaces in both winter and summer months.
The Residence is a timber frame using Douglas fir from Washington State, where the Campbell's live. The home is wrapped with a wide porch with screened in areas. One corner overlooking the lake has an outdoor fire place integrated into the porch timber framing. This provides a wonderful outdoor fire experience under the roof.
The large open concept living and dining room is lit by dormers from above. This two story space is bordered by the stairs to the second floor with a half round look out, all timber framed.
The home is well insulated throughout using blown-in cellulose and the foundation insulation was carefully configured to prevent thermal breaks. In addition to the custom timber frame, a variety of custom built-in furniture elements were constructed using a variety of wood types depending on lighting and location.
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