The renovation of a mid century cottage on the lake, now serves as a guest house. The renovation preserved the original architectural elements such as the ceiling and original stone fireplace to preserve the character, personality and history and provide the inspiration and canvas to which everything else would be added. To prevent the space from feeling dark & too rustic, the lines were kept clean, the furnishings modern and the use of saturated color was strategically placed throughout.

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Residential $30,000-$60,000 Award Level: Silver Project Description: Our company was contracted to do a master plan for the family who was in desperate need of a rear yard renovation. The existing lawn area remained saturated throughout most of the year and the runoff from the neighboring property ran across their back yard, down the side of their property and all the way to the sidewalk in front of their house. The water was so intense that it had begun to cut through the back yard and erode the soil across the sidewalk and into the nearby storm drain. By identifying these drainage problems and discussing solutions with the homeowner, we were able to design and create the aesthetically pleasing and sustainable solution of a rain garden. The goal was to slow down storm water runoff, and catch pollution and sediment by creating a rain garden that acts as a filter prior to entering the storm drain, while enhancing the aesthetics of the property. The rain garden created was a shallow depression, 12 - 16" deep that collects rainfall runoff from all downspouts of the home and water collected into perforated pipes underneath the lawn area. The perforated pipe begins at the highest elevation in the yard and ends in the rain garden, the new lowest elevation that has been excavated down to an 8" depth. The perforated pipe captures the runoff water and allows the water to seep slowly back into the ground as it runs across the property and into the garden. The garden was lined with a geotextile filter fabric to aide in removing contaminants from the water, prevent migration of the stone in to the soil, and minimalize maintenance. A large variety of plant material was chosen, focusing mainly on native wetland species for their tolerance of our local soil types, moisture conditions and the habitat they provide for wildlife. The garden was abundant with native wildlife and was a sustainable ecosystem for birds and butterflies upon completion of the project. After planting, we arranged decorative stone throughout the garden to slow the flow of water and help prevent erosion. The combination of vegetative and stone surfaces provides temporary storage for runoff before the water either evaporates or infiltrates the soil. The surrounding beds throughout the property were also all amended with compost and replanted with plants that work in harmony with the rain garden. The front, side, and rear yards are a beautiful display of colors that bloom throughout the seasons and the plants throughout the entire property provide food and shelter for native wildlife. The rear yard that was once a muddy play space for the kids is now a dry lawn space that can be utilized by the family and their neighbors. This multi­ functional garden has become the focal point of the residence. Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

Transitional porch idea in Other

Classic elegance with a fresh face characterizes this stunner, adorned in Benjamin Moore’s pale green “Vale Mist”. For a serene, cohesive look, the beadboard and casings are painted to match. Counters and backsplashes are subtly-veined Himalayan Marble. Flat panel inset cabinetry was enhanced with a delicate ogee profile and graceful bracket feet. Oak floors were artfully stenciled to form a diamond pattern with intersecting dots. Brushed brass fixtures and hardware lend old-world appeal with a stylish flourish. Balancing the formality are casual rattan bistro stools and dining chairs. A metal-rimmed glass tabletop allows full view of the curvaceous walnut pedestal. Tucked into the narrow end of the kitchen is a cozy desk. Its walnut top warms the space, while mullion glass doors contribute openness. Preventing claustrophobia is a frosted wheel-style oculus window to boost light and depth. A bold statement is made for the small hutch, where a neutral animal print wallpaper is paired with Benjamin Moore’s ruby-red semi-gloss “My Valentine” paint on cabinetry and trim. Glass doors display serving pieces. Juxtaposed against the saturated hue is the pop of a white marble counter and contemporary acrylic handles. What could have been a drab niche is now a jewel box! This project was designed in collaboration with Ashley Sharpe of Sharpe Development and Design. Photography by Lesley Unruh. Bilotta Designer: David Arnoff Post Written by Paulette Gambacorta adapted for Houzz

The long, sleek fireplace glows with the sheen of crushed, coppery glass tiles and the subtly oxidized gleam of the mantle and hearth. The size of the fireplace and the dimension added to the wall prevent the large television from overwhelming the space.

Inspiration for a contemporary bedroom remodel in San Francisco

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!

Deck - transitional deck idea in San Francisco

Inspiration for a 1950s bathroom remodel in Austin

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ann Betten
Design ideas for a traditional landscaping in Baltimore.

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.