Catana's front entry doors are designed to reflect a home's value and an owner's character. The care and detail that goes into producing a Catana door ensures that they will be a source of pride for homeowners for years to come. Available in multiple configurations, Catana front doors combine style and performance with the highest level of security. Catana front entry doors contain a multi-point locking system that secures the door at five different points along the frame, with only a simple turn of the key. The key lock itself is virtually un-pickable and glass panels contains a layer of laminate, making them shatterproof. Together, the security features in Catana front doors will give you added piece of mind at night or when you're away from your home. The glass in Catana front doors is not only shatterproof but is also energy efficient, preventing air transfer to and from the outdoors. The durable glass also prevents outside noise from entering the house, creating a pleasant interior atmosphere. Doors can be fitted with both tempered and decorative glass to compliment any style.

Creating a Dream Kitchen: Where Beauty Meets Functionality
The kitchen is the heart of every modern home. Today, kitchen design goes beyond just cabinet layouts and color schemes—it’s about optimizing space and ensuring high-performance functionality. One often overlooked yet crucial element is a well-designed plumbing system, which can dramatically enhance both the aesthetics and efficiency of your space.
Hidden Plumbing: The Secret to Sleek, Modern Designs
Leading interior designers in Phoenix, Arizona, emphasize that a professional plumbing system can make a significant difference in a kitchen’s final look. Companies like APS Plumbing, with their expertise in concealed plumbing installations, help architects and homeowners achieve that flawless, minimalist design.
5 Key Plumbing Tips for an Efficient Kitchen:
Smart Placement – Strategically position faucets and drainage points to enhance both aesthetics and daily usability.
High-Quality Materials – Invest in durable pipes and fittings to minimize frequent repairs.
Professional Insulation – Prevent energy loss and reduce unwanted noise with proper pipe insulation.
Easy Access – Design the system so future repairs don’t require extensive demolition.
Appliance Compatibility – Ensure plumbing aligns with modern appliances like side-by-side refrigerators and advanced dishwashers.
Choosing the Right Professional
As seen in high-end design projects, working with experienced plumbing teams like APS Plumbing—who understand modern design needs—can prevent costly future issues. Their free pre-installation consultations help homeowners and designers choose the best solutions for combining beauty and functionality.
Final Thoughts
A truly modern kitchen achieves perfection by paying attention to every technical detail. Investing in a professional plumbing system not only increases your home’s value but also enhances everyday cooking and living experiences. For your next project, consult experts who combine technical knowledge with a strong sense of aesthetics.

Heated valley and eave to prevent ice buildup and damage.
Gray one-story wood exterior home photo in Salt Lake City

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.

$329.99 EAGO TB222 unifies classic elegance with modern design. TB222 features a modern skirted design bowl for easy cleaning and a slow close seat. 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. EAGO’s EASY-FIT rough-in adapter system simplifies the installation process of the skirted designed toilet. Model TB222 One-Piece Siphonic Dual Flush Toilet Water Consumption: 1.1/1.6 GPF / 4/6 LPF Rough-In: 12″ / 305mm Certification: cUPC / WaterSense Size: 26 7/8″ x 24 5/8″ | 685mm x 405mm x 625mm Eago Toilets | Modern Bathware Inc. | eago@modernbathware.com | www.modernbathware.com | 416-561-2430 or Toll Free 1-800-492-3980

Erika Bierman Photography
Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in Los Angeles

AirField installed an AirPave grass fire lane for their porous flexible paving at Baptist Trinity Residential Hospice, creating a beautiful, functional, ecological friendly solution to facility access. An installation of an AirField Systems grass fire lane at Baptist Trinity Residential Hospice brings green building benefits and incredible strength to a beautiful new facility. A time lapse photo series highlight the installation process of the 6,747 PSI sand filled 100% recycled geocell technology, providing the strength of asphalt and concrete while relieving some of the burden of costly storm sewers and drainage. This new installation highlights the benefits of paving with grass, as well as the comparative ease of installation. Concrete and asphalt surfaces occupy twice the area of buildings and are the most detrimental to clean water. Concrete and asphalt surfaces dominate the landscape of our urban environments and prevent rainwater from being filtered naturally. They send harmful polluted water straight into our streams, rivers and lakes. In urban America, concrete and asphalt pavements produce two thirds of our excess water runoff. They are responsible for significant hydrocarbon pollutants on our ground and in our water, causing ground water decline, and resulting in local water shortages. These concrete and asphalt surfaces also create huge increases in temperature known as the urban “heat island effect”. The pollution caused by impervious surfaces deteriorate the quality of our storm water runoff and create large overflows that our storm sewer systems cannot handle. It is also important to realize that the urban forest force is drastically diminishing, causing CO2 levels to rise, which in turn causes global warming. With all the negative influences of impervious pavements now is the time to turn our attention to alternatives for the benefit of the environment. From fire lanes, overflow, and event parking, to temporary and stadium parking, reinforced grass parking systems deliver the same strength and durability of asphalt and concrete without the negative affects mentioned above. These incredibly strong geocells reinforce grass parking, prevent rutting from traffic, protect turf roots, and promote beautiful grass. Reinforced grass parking structures, also know as grass pavements, enhance the environment by naturally filtering auto and truck liquids such as oil drippings, antifreeze overflows and many other leaks and spills. They also help with air pollutants after they have been knocked to the ground by rainwater and greatly reduce hot surface temperatures thus fighting global warming and the “heat island effect”. Grass pavements allow our groundwater to be naturally replenished, the roots of trees to breathe, and they help our streams and rivers flow cleanly in dry hot summers. A large part of the solution to urban environmental problems is under our feet. By paying appropriate attention to the everyday materials on which we walk and drive, we can replenish renewable resources, restore the natural regenerative processes, and produce a cleaner, healthier, safer, more sustainable world in which we must live. Porous pavements are potentially the most important development in urban watersheds since the invention of storm sewers. By routing rainwater directly into the earth as nature intended, the need for costly storm water structures can be drastically reduced. Reinforced grass parking has built in permeable spaces through which water and air can pass. Although some porous paving materials are nearly indistinguishable from nonporous materials in construction and superficial appearance, their environmental effects are qualitatively exponential. They allow air, water and heat to dissipate into the environment naturally helping to save the planet. AirField reinforced grass parking provides beauty and comfort, and with the unbeatable price and performance of AirDrain you can’t go wrong. AirDrain is the reinforced grass pave system the industry has trusted for years !!! Airfield Systems, LLC 8028 North May Avenue Oklahoma City, OK 73120 405-359-3775 Installer – GREENPRO Landscapes Kevin James 9847 Stewart Rd Arlington, TN 38002

UltraMedia featured in Electronic House magazine: "Reaching this point of acoustical nirvana required plenty of calculations, CAD drawings and calibration, says Mike Brock of custom electronics design and installation firm UltraMedia, Richardson, Texas. His company worked directly with the manufacturer—Auralex—to make sure every inch of wall surface, both inside and out, was covered with the perfect type and amount of acoustical material. “We sent the room dimensions and the planned locations of the video projector, speakers and other equipment to the engineers at Auralex,” Brock explains. Using this information, the company was able to specify products and determine their proper placement. “This was the first time where I actually had the manufacturer come down and take an active role in the project and it really worked to everyone’s advantage,” Brock continues. Home-Theater-Wolf-Projector.jpg Auralex’s help with the design of the acoustical treatments afforded Brock the time to implement other sound-enhancing solutions. For example, he filled the hollow metal legs of the bar with sand to prevent them from resonating during loud passages in movie soundtracks. A thick, heavily padded carpet was added, and the general contractor constructed the shell of the room with sound-reducing drywall and installed a solid core door to prevent audio from seeping out into other areas of the house. Lastly, the sound system was calibrated. Unlike many acoustically treated theaters, where the speakers are installed within the walls and covered with special fabric, in this room UltraMedia kept the nine Vienna Acoustic speakers completely exposed. The front three Vienna Acoustics Klimt Music speakers (as well as two REL sub bass units) were positioned on the floor, and the back six speakers were mounted to the surface of the walls. “The cherry in this theater are the Klimts,” says Brock. “We really dialed them in for the best possible sound.” By “dialing in,” Brock means using his and his team’s critical listening skills to position the speakers properly, then using the Integra receiver’s built-in Audyssey technology (a combination of sophisticated software and microphones) to calibrate the speakers to compensate for any acoustical anomalies. The end result: audio perfection." Photo credit: UltraMedia, Inc.

Before photo of the driveway. This surface was not properly coated, and sealed. The surface was exposed to the elements, and had plenty of mildew. Also, the brown border was painted on the surface, which will never hold up. Paint should not be used on concrete surfaces. The dirt, and mildew is the result of not properly sealing the stained concrete. Christopher Hill

This striking arrangement of natural boulders and drought-tolerant plants that not only enhances the visual appeal but also plays a crucial role in controlling erosion. Complementing the boulders, a selection of drought-tolerant plants is thoughtfully integrated into the design. These plants, with their diverse textures and colors, create a vibrant landscape that thrives in Santa Fe’s arid climate. Ornamental grasses rise alongside the boulders, adding height and movement, while flowering plants provide splashes of color that attract pollinators and enhance biodiversity. Groundcover is used to fill in gaps, preventing soil erosion while also softening the edges of the boulders. The overall effect is a harmonious blend of hardscape and softscape that draws the eye along the driveway, making the journey more visually engaging while ensuring that the landscape remains sustainable and functional. This design approach not only beautifies the property but also promotes environmental stewardship by minimizing water usage and preventing soil loss.

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.

Installed CrimSafe to a local home. What is CrimSafe? A unique stainless steel security screen that provides protection for your home or business against intruders and storms, while enhancing its appearance. CrimSafe can increase both Security and Storm Protection for your home or business via these three ways: 1) Secure- Prevent Unwanted Intruders. Keep out insects and pests. Protect against forces of nature; hurricanes, hail, debris. Keep pets in, unwanted animals out. 2) Protect- Home security for you and your family. Keep valuables safe from theft and damage. Prevent unwanted intruders. Emergency egress windows easily operated in panic situations. 3) Enhance- Architecturally designed to fit any structure. All fasteners are hidden. Provides Peace of Mind. Reduces solar heat gain. Sleep safe and secure with opened windows.

This beautiful cedar gate was built using Coastal Bronze's Bronze Gate Hardware. 20-330 Bronze Band Hinges with Bronze Pintles (20-250). They have a lockable barrel bolt (80-200) for security, with a 40-300 Bronze Thumb Latch and a Bronze Drop Bar (50-100) for opening and closing, with a Bronze Gate Stop (50-250) to prevent gate damaging the hardware. And last but not least a Bronze Cane Bolt (80-100) to keep the gate closed during weather and to prevent unauthorized opening. Just like this gate, we can do any custom Bronze design, check us out at www.coastalbronze.com

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

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.

The 3 Piece Bayside Sofa Set by Forever Patio (FP-BAY-3SS-SW) makes outdoor entertainment a delight with its ample seat space and contemporary design. The set seats 6 adults comfortably, and includes a sofa, a club chair, a loveseat, an end table with a Durawood top and a coffee table with a Durawood top. The Stone Wood wicker is made from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), giving it variegated tones and tremendous durability. Each strand of wicker is infused with UV-inhibitors that prevent cracking, chipping and fading ordinarily caused by sunlight. Every piece is constructed with thick-gauged, powder-coated aluminum frames that make the set extremely durable and corrosion resistant. Also included with the set are cushions covered in fade- and mildew-resistant Sunbrella® fabric, available in a wide selection of colors. Order any of the Quick Ship fabrics and not only will your order ship in 7-10 business days, you will also receive an accent pillow for each seat! Set includes: one (1) sofa with cushions, one (1) club chair with cushions and one (1) coffee table. Features: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) all-weather wicker is infused with UV inhibitors that prevent fading and cracking ordinarily caused by sunlight. Thick-gauged, powder-coated aluminum frame offers long lasting durability and rust resistance. High-density, watertight Durawood table top with UV inhibitors is fade-resistant and easy to maintain. Sunbrella® cushion covers provide unmatched fade, moisture and mildew resistance, and can be easily unzipped for cleaning. Plush, overstuffed cushions are made from quick-drying polyurethane foam wrapped in moisture and mildew-eliminating Dacron fibers. Full-sized design provides deep, comfortable seating. Compare dimensions to lesser brands to see the difference! Removable suspension seating provides additional comfort and easy maintenance Designed to match the entire Bayside Collection. Call to build your own custom set.

Baylen is 9 years old and was diagnosed at age 6 with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in October 2020, in the middle of the pandemic. DMD is a rare disease caused by a genetic mutation that prevents the body from producing a protein called Dystrophin, to which there is currently no cure. In lieu of Dystrophin, his muscles are slowly being encompassed with scar tissue. Without Dystrophin the scar tissue will eventually take over his muscles until they cannot perform adequately for his body. Since his diagnosis, he has taken to lego building and gaming, which are activities he can participate in without causing any damage to his muscles. Unfortunately the game room in his house is located upstairs while his room is located downstairs making it difficult for him to participate in these activities without assistance or pain from walking up the stairs. One of the biggest issues is at night, when his legs are in pain, he ends up in his parents room which prevents anyone from getting a restful night's sleep. A room where he feels comfortable and safe would greatly help both him and his parents. It would also be beneficial for his room to have more space for lego building and play video games without having to walk up the stairs.

Design ideas for a landscaping in New York.