Ann Betten
This is an example of a traditional landscaping in Baltimore.

2010 NARI CAPITAL COTY MERIT AWARD WINNER Baby boomers residing in this single-family colonial in Mclean, Virginia, wanted to make big changes indoors and out. First, they were tired of their back yard and old wooden deck. The neighboring lot sloped steeply downward, creating significant run-off that prevented any semblance of a lawn or landscaping from taking hold. Worse, it prevented the couple from letting their grandchildren or dog out to play. To address the issue, Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes excavated their entire yard so it was level. Then they designed and built a 5’ x 40’ retaining wall covered with ledger stone to separate the lots, installing an underground drainage system to keep runoff away from a new flagstone patio and surrounding plants and shrubs. Above the stone patio is a large no-maintenance deck reached via a wide stairway with matching railing. A 12’ x 18’ screened in porch sits to one side featuring cedar beaded ceiling panels and French doors that lead into the home’s dining room. Highlighting the interior renovations is a new gourmet kitchen with a custom-made wood cabinets and exotic granite countertops. The room’s focal point is a large island with a two-tier countertop and bar seating. Professional-grade stainless steel appliances include a gas cooktop, double-wall ovens, built-in microwave and dishwasher and large refrigerator. Other features include a porcelain tile floor, tile backsplash and a tray ceiling. A new master bathroom features floor-to-ceiling cabinets, a dark marble countertop and his and hers sinks. Contrasting light-colored marble floor and wall tile leads to a glass-enclosed shower. An adjoining walk-in closet completes the design.

Natural stone swimming pool coping and patio built by Gappsi in Huntington NY with Scogli di Mare limestone; selected from the Gappsi natural stone collection. The sizes of the Scogli di Mare pavers are randomly mixed in rectangular and square sizes; the Scogli di Mare texture finish is flames and tumbled. The pavers surface consist of natural sea shell fossils exposed by the finishing process. The sealing process begins with pressure washing the entire patio, removing all dirt/debris from the stone surface and in between the joints. Next, Nexgel Techniseal synthetic sand is applied in between the pavers joints and vibrated with a mechanical plate compactor. The plate compactor has rubber rollers to prevent the stones from cracking or scratching. This vibrating process allows the sand to fall in between the joints and density. Then, we clean the pavers with brooms and landscape blowers, to clean the excess sand from the pavers surface and to evenly spread the sand in between the pavers joints. The next step is to wash the pavers by misting water to penetrate the synthetic sand into the paver joints all the way down below the pavers. The sand and water activate a chemical reaction of the pollen that's in the sand to cause the sand to harden. Finally, the application of the sealer, two parts components urethane dealer, specially formulated for Gappsi, is applied to the pavers surface and the sand joints to prevent stones from staining, extend their life cycle and further enhance their texture, color, and surface. Follow the link to watch the sealing process of this property: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNBxlg5jaLI Gappsi provides power washing and sealing in both Nassau and Suffolk county on Long Island NY.

2010 NARI CAPITAL COTY MERIT AWARD WINNER Baby boomers residing in this single-family colonial in Mclean, Virginia, wanted to make big changes indoors and out. First, they were tired of their back yard and old wooden deck. The neighboring lot sloped steeply downward, creating significant run-off that prevented any semblance of a lawn or landscaping from taking hold. Worse, it prevented the couple from letting their grandchildren or dog out to play. To address the issue, Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes excavated their entire yard so it was level. Then they designed and built a 5’ x 40’ retaining wall covered with ledger stone to separate the lots, installing an underground drainage system to keep runoff away from a new flagstone patio and surrounding plants and shrubs. Above the stone patio is a large no-maintenance deck reached via a wide stairway with matching railing. A 12’ x 18’ screened in porch sits to one side featuring cedar beaded ceiling panels and French doors that lead into the home’s dining room. Highlighting the interior renovations is a new gourmet kitchen with a custom-made wood cabinets and exotic granite countertops. The room’s focal point is a large island with a two-tier countertop and bar seating. Professional-grade stainless steel appliances include a gas cooktop, double-wall ovens, built-in microwave and dishwasher and large refrigerator. Other features include a porcelain tile floor, tile backsplash and a tray ceiling. A new master bathroom features floor-to-ceiling cabinets, a dark marble countertop and his and hers sinks. Contrasting light-colored marble floor and wall tile leads to a glass-enclosed shower. An adjoining walk-in closet completes the design.

2010 NARI CAPITAL COTY MERIT AWARD WINNER Baby boomers residing in this single-family colonial in Mclean, Virginia, wanted to make big changes indoors and out. First, they were tired of their back yard and old wooden deck. The neighboring lot sloped steeply downward, creating significant run-off that prevented any semblance of a lawn or landscaping from taking hold. Worse, it prevented the couple from letting their grandchildren or dog out to play. To address the issue, Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes excavated their entire yard so it was level. Then they designed and built a 5’ x 40’ retaining wall covered with ledger stone to separate the lots, installing an underground drainage system to keep runoff away from a new flagstone patio and surrounding plants and shrubs. Above the stone patio is a large no-maintenance deck reached via a wide stairway with matching railing. A 12’ x 18’ screened in porch sits to one side featuring cedar beaded ceiling panels and French doors that lead into the home’s dining room. Highlighting the interior renovations is a new gourmet kitchen with a custom-made wood cabinets and exotic granite countertops. The room’s focal point is a large island with a two-tier countertop and bar seating. Professional-grade stainless steel appliances include a gas cooktop, double-wall ovens, built-in microwave and dishwasher and large refrigerator. Other features include a porcelain tile floor, tile backsplash and a tray ceiling. A new master bathroom features floor-to-ceiling cabinets, a dark marble countertop and his and hers sinks. Contrasting light-colored marble floor and wall tile leads to a glass-enclosed shower. An adjoining walk-in closet completes the design.

No more crying over spilled milk, hot coffee, or your favorite cocktail. The Table Server’s line of tables’ - high quality, stylish hardwood end tables and side tables in various finishes and sizes - with cup holders, can help you save time and money by preventing spills. The cup holders on all our tables are built-in into the tabletop and can hold everything from wine bottles to wine glasses to pint glasses to plastic red cups. Similar to The Home Décor Tables, The Traveler was designed with the outdoor lifestyle in mind. Four cup holders in the tabletop prevent spills while enjoying a tailgate party before a big game, picnicking with family, and eating dinner under the stars. A lower serving tray provides additional storage and the bottom flat tray can sit where the table top is, giving you more options than any other table. Available in all-weather teak or acacia wood. Perfect for your backyard BBQ.

A complete desert landscape renovation — from demo through final planting — designed to honor the Sonoran Desert character of the property while adding structure, drama, and year-round visual interest. The scope opened with full site demolition: removal of approximately 20 existing plants, regrading for a new curved pony wall and mounded terrain, and excavation for a new river run. Existing granite was preserved and redistributed rather than removed, reducing waste and maintaining the site's established material palette. Hardscape & Structure A 20-linear-foot curved retention wall built from standard block with a stucco cap defines a planting border along the property edge. The facing side is clad in 45 square feet of stone veneer matched precisely to the home's exterior — a detail that ties the landscape directly to the architecture. Five 500-pound surface boulders are placed throughout the mounded areas, grounding the composition with natural scale and weight. River Run & Materials Three tons of 3"x6" rip rap create a dry river run that flows through the redesigned grade, channeling storm water naturally while adding texture and movement. Three tons of fill dirt support the contouring and mounding work, and approximately 17 tons of the site's original granite was respread across the finished landscape. Planting Design The plant palette is entirely desert-adapted. Twenty-six five-gallon desert shrubs and ground covers layer the mounded areas. Sixteen five-gallon cacti and succulents — including Mexican Fence Post, Gopher Plant, assorted agaves, Argentine Giants, and Golden Barrels — provide sculptural structure. A six-foot bare root ocotillo serves as a dramatic vertical accent. Irrigation A new two-zone drip irrigation system — including a Febco backflow preventer, pressure regulator, timer, valve box, and poly line with emitters — was installed to maintain separate watering schedules for the plant and cactus zones. Lighting Five commercial-grade antique brass landscape spotlights were integrated throughout the space, wired with 500 feet of cable tied into the home's existing transformer. The result is a fully illuminated evening landscape that highlights boulder groupings, the river run, and key specimen plants.

This beautiful colonial in Marion, Massachusetts is even more gorgeous with its new GAF Timberline HD roof! There is more to a roof than shingles – in fact there are several components to a professionally installed GAF Lifetime Roofing System. Here is the anatomy of our Marion homeowner’s roof: GAF Timberline HD Shingles Marion, MAGAF Timberline HD Roof Shingles: A beautiful architectural shingle at an affordable price! This is our most popular roof shingle here at Care Free Homes! Our Marion customer selected the classic color, Charcoal. This high performance shingle features a 130 mph wind rating and highest possible fire rating. Underlayment: A felt/paper product that is installed over the entire roof deck, underlayment provides an additional layer of protection between the roof deck and the roof shingles. Ice Dam and Water Shield: After a brutal winter and unprecedented snow fall, many New England homes suffered damage from ice dams. Ice Dam and Water Shield provides added protection for eves, rakes, valleys as well as flashed areas around vent pipes, chimneys, dormers, and skylights. Whether it’s a winter wonderland or a hurricane, this homeowner will not have to worry about ice dams or driving rain. GAF Timberline HD, Marion, MA Dormers Premium Aluminum Drip Edge: Installed along the rakes, drip edge serves several purposes. It improves the efficiency of water shedding, prevents leaking from a wind-driven rain as well as movement between the deck and fascia boards. Drip edge also keeps pesky insects from infiltrating the space between the roof deck and the fascia boards. With a choice of three colors, white, brown and gray, it provides a finished look for a roof. GAF Pro-Start Eave/Rake Starter Strip: Every story has a beginning and every roof should have a starter strip. Here in New England we’ve got to have our roof be tougher than mother nature. To prevent shingle blow off, an ultra-adhered starter strip properly secures shingles in place during a storm. In contrast, the amateur roofer will often use cut-up shingles as a starter course. This weakened “starter course” lowers the wind resistance of a roof and makes it more susceptible to both wind and water damage. With straighter edges, Dura-Grip adhesive, and outstanding warranties – starter strip will provide beauty, performance and peace of mind. GAF Cobra Ridge Vent: Ridge vents provide necessary airflow to remove excess heat and moisture in an attic. It inhibits the growth of mold and protects the health of the homeowners as well as their stored possessions. A properly vented attic will also protect homes in harsh winter climates from ice damming. Why wait? Contact us today and make your house a Care Free home!

The contemporary and stylish, built-in double wall oven is more than just beautiful and functional, it is an absolute must-have for home entertaining. The Sharp SWB3062GS built-in double wall oven features edge-to-edge black glass and stainless steel design with an all-new premium, Soft-Close Door that closes quietly and prevents slamming. Two, 5.0 cu ft. ovens maximize cooking capacity and lets you cook two different courses, at two different temperatures, all at the same time. This 5.0 cu. ft. built-in double wall oven uses True European Convection to cook evenly and heat efficiently. The 8 pass broil element provides edge-to-edge performance. The 6 Pass hidden bake element and sculpted floor of the modern, cobalt blue porcelain interior make cleanup a breeze. Touch glass controls and a large LCD display make the control panel easy to see and operate. Six sculpted rack positions on both the Upper and Lower ovens create a versatile cooking space. The included glide-rack gracefully handles even your heaviest cookware smoothly and evenly to help prevent accidental spills.

$759.99 The EAGO WD101 wall mounted toilet offers an ultra minimal look to any bathroom. Co-ordinating in-wall dual flush tank is included. Every EAGO toilet features ULTRAGLAZE which created a super smooth ionized barrier that prevents bacteria, mold, and debris from adhering to ceramic surfaces. ULTRAGLAZE lines the trap channels of the toilet to prevent blockages and naturally assist with flushing. Model WD101 One-Piece Siphonic Dual Flush Toilet Water Consumption: 1.1/1.6 GPF / 4/6 LPF Rough-In: In-Wall Tank Size: 22″ x 14 1/8″ x 13 3/4″ Includes in-wall dual flush tank Eago Toilets | Modern Bathware Inc. | eago@modernbathware.com | www.modernbathware.com | 416-561-2430 or Toll Free 1-800-492-3980

After sighting the elevations (surveying) and flagging the entire wall, the step- down footings are dug, Then, the vertical / horizontal rebar is set & tied together and finally the forms are built and connected all the way down... next is pouring the concrete into the footings with the pump truck! Notice the black silt fence running along the entire wall area. It's designed to prevent any runoff to the street (erosion control) and preventing any silting into any water sources

Mobalco drawers and pan drawers are made of stainless-steel sheet with a fingerprint-proof finish. They stand out for their smooth, precise sliding mechanism that incorporates an adaptive damping system depending on the load. Exclusive design with a straight wall only 12 mm. thick. The synchronization of the guides and the roller rails provides an ultralight glide. The pan drawers with raised sides prevent their contents falling out or becoming jammed. The large dynamic load capacity, up to 80 kg. prevents pitching, even at maximum load. The system of frontal fixation, with double fixing points, provides major stability when opening.

Lifts are important! Storm damage prevention and provides a major improvement to your living space.
Inspiration for a coastal exterior home remodel in New York

Ann Betten
Design ideas for a traditional landscaping in Baltimore.

Schroeder Design/Build created seven different layout options and our clients selected an “L” shaped design that required removing a bearing wall. This allowed us to open up the kitchen area and create a laundry area that was formerly an under stair closet. The new kitchen features loads of counter space for working and cabinets and drawers for storage. Appliances were placed to maximize flow and prevent traffic jams. A well-planned layered light plan offers overhead, task and accent lighting throughout. The peninsula seating area allows the kids to sit and do homework or socialize while mom’s preparing meals. This kitchen remodel includes many special touches that make it perfectly suited for this family. The knee wall under the peninsula is tiled to prevent damage to the cabinets from accidental kicking while the kids sit on stools. There’s a niche behind the sink to add extra counter depth for plants.

Our new collection of wrought iron doors provides superior sound and heat insulation. The solid metal construction prevents rust, while the wrought iron insert inside the glass unit eliminates the need for maintenance and keeps the door looking new for years. Special feature is the use of durable aluminum profiles that improve both strength and appearance. Furthermore, VDom Doors protect your home from extreme weather conditions, insects, and dust infiltration. Our doors offer several key advantages: - The structure is made from a single, non-welded metal sheet, which prevents internal condensation and extends the lifespan of the door mechanisms. - Reinforced stiffening ribs inside the frame increase resistance to impact and mechanical stress. - High-quality insulation materials help reduce external noise and protect against heat loss and cold penetration. Each door is designed and assembled with precision. The solid iron frame and aluminum threshold provide durability and stability, while the clean, balanced design ensures the door fits a wide range of architectural styles. Model - 1601 Iron Color - Black Glass - Safety Triplex, with mirrored-clear effect; This door design features five wide horizontal glass inserts that bring in light while keeping a bold, structured look. The proportions are clean and balanced, giving the door a strong visual presence. The full-length pull handle aligns with the doors geometry, making it a great fit for modern homes that value simplicity and solid construction. Door thickness - 3 1/4" Frame thickness - 4" Exterior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Interior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - 2 Long Black Pull Handles

ARTR152M4: adorne® Tamper-Resistant Outlet - 15A - 125V - Magnesium ADPD703HM4: adorne® Paddle Dimmer - 700W - Incandescent/Halogen - Magnesium ADTP703TUM4: - 700W - True-Universal - Magnesium adorne® Tamper-Resistant Outlet - All adorne outlets include a tamper-resistant design featuring a patented shutter system, keeping children safe by preventing them from pushing small objects into the outlet. The shutters are molded a dark color that they fade into the backgorund while keeping users safe. Patented shutter system helps prevent improper insertion of foreign objects. Configuration easily supports two plugs and offers the capacity of a standard outlet. Easy "1-for-1" installation lets you simply replace your existing outlet in just minutes. Fits in your existing electrical box and does not require new wires for typical installation. Innovative assembly and snap-in system make it fast and simple to install. adorne® Paddle Dimmer - Dual-engineered with a rocking motion for seamless on/off lighting control, as well as a slider for dimming in one beautifully inventive package. To determine what option is right for you, make sure the wattage of your bulbs matches the wattage of the dimmer switch by multiplying the number of bulbs by their respective wattage. For example, if you have a chandelier with 11 bulbs at 100 watts each, you would need the 1100 watt dimmer switch. Supports incandescent and halogen bulbs and single-pole/3-way operation. Easy "1-for-1" installation lets you simply replace your existing switch in just minutes. Fits in your existing electrical box and does not require new wires for typical installation. Innovative assembly and snap-in system make it fast and simple to install. adorne® sofTap Dimmer - The sofTap design features an innovative micro-movement that turns lights on an doff with just a soft "tap" of the finger. 2015 Light for Tomorrow Winner. To determine what option is right for you, make sure the wattage of your bulbs matches the wattage of the dimmer switch by multiplying the number of bulbs by their respective wattage. For example, if you have a chandelier with 11 bulbs at 100 watts each, you would need the 1100 watt dimmer switch. Switch supports single-pole and three-way operation. Easy "1-for-1" installation lets you simply replace your existing switch in just minutes. Fits in your existing electrical box and does not require new wires for typical installation. Innovative assembly and snap-in system make it fast and simple to install. Tru-Universal technology enables the dimmer to support all load types, including incandescent/halogen, Magnetic Low Voltage (MLV), Electronic Low Voltage (ELV) in forward or reverse Phase, CFL/LED, etc.

When it comes to selecting fixtures for your kitchen or bathroom, few options offer the blend of elegance, durability, and functionality like brass bridge faucets. These faucets, with their vintage charm and modern efficiency, bring a unique aesthetic and practical benefits to any space. This article explores the appeal of brass bridge faucets, their key features, benefits, and tips on how to choose and maintain them. The Charm of Brass Bridge Faucets Classic Aesthetic Brass bridge faucets are known for their classic, timeless look. The warm, golden hue of brass adds a touch of luxury and sophistication, making these faucets a focal point in any kitchen or bathroom. Their vintage design can seamlessly blend with various décor styles, from rustic to contemporary. Durability One of the standout qualities of brass is its durability. Brass is resistant to corrosion and can withstand daily wear and tear, ensuring that your faucet remains in excellent condition for years. This makes brass bridge faucets a long-term investment for your home. Versatility Available in various finishes such as polished, brushed, or antique brass, these faucets can complement a wide range of design themes. Whether you want a shiny, reflective finish or a more subdued, matte look, there’s a brass bridge faucet to suit your taste. Key Features of Brass Bridge Faucets Elevated Bridge Design The distinctive feature of bridge faucets is the elevated connecting pipe that links the hot and cold water lines. This bridge not only enhances the faucet's aesthetic appeal but also provides additional clearance, making it easier to clean large pots and pans or to accommodate larger sinks. Dual Handles Brass bridge faucets typically feature dual handles, allowing for precise control over water temperature. This functionality ensures a balanced mix of hot and cold water, providing you with the perfect temperature for your needs. Classic Spout Designs These faucets often come with high-arc or gooseneck spouts, which are both practical and stylish. The high spout design provides ample space for washing and filling containers, adding to the faucet’s functionality. Benefits of Brass Bridge Faucets Visual Appeal Brass bridge faucets serve as a statement piece in any room. Their elegant design and warm finish add a touch of luxury and can elevate the overall aesthetic of your kitchen or bathroom. Functionality Beyond their beauty, brass bridge faucets are highly functional. The dual-handle design allows for precise temperature control, while the elevated bridge offers extra clearance for various tasks. This combination of form and function makes them a practical choice for busy households. Hygienic Properties Brass has natural antimicrobial properties, making it a hygienic choice for kitchen and bathroom fixtures. This can be particularly beneficial in spaces where cleanliness is paramount. Choosing the Right Brass Bridge Faucet Finish Options When selecting a brass bridge faucet, consider the finish that best matches your existing décor. Polished brass offers a shiny, reflective surface, while antique brass provides a more vintage, weathered look. Brushed brass has a matte finish that hides fingerprints and water spots. Coordination with Other Fixtures Ensure that your brass bridge faucet complements other fixtures in your kitchen or bathroom. Coordinating the faucet with cabinet handles, lighting fixtures, and other hardware can create a cohesive and harmonious look. Installation Requirements Check the installation requirements before purchasing a brass bridge faucet. These faucets typically require a three-hole installation, so make sure your sink or countertop is compatible. Maintenance Tips Regular Cleaning To maintain the luster of your brass bridge faucet, clean it regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface. Preventing Water Spots After cleaning, dry the faucet thoroughly to prevent water spots. This is particularly important for polished brass finishes, which are more prone to showing spots and fingerprints. Addressing Tarnish Brass can tarnish over time. To address this, use a brass cleaner or a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda to gently polish the surface. Regular polishing can keep your faucet looking its best. Conclusion Brass bridge faucets are a beautiful and functional addition to any home. Their timeless design, durability, and practicality make them a worthwhile investment for your kitchen or bathroom. By choosing the right finish and maintaining it properly, you can enjoy the elegance and charm of a brass bridge faucet for years to come. Embrace the classic appeal of brass and elevate the look of your home with this stunning fixture.

Ann Betten
Design ideas for a traditional landscaping in Baltimore.