Porcea Indus is a close alternative to Venetian Gray, Cascade Limestone, Thermal Bluestone, Indus Valley, and Indus Gray Limestones. All of these natural stone products have unique challenges including staining from rust (Venetian Gray), lack of availability (Cascade), and a general lack of charm (Thermal Bluestone). Porcea Indus solves all of these problems and packs a real punch. A sandblasted texture with a subtle off-grey colour tone that is stain-resistant and maintenance-free. The fleuri and shells found on this premium outdoor porcelain paver are both charming and subtle, allowing for an extremely premium and modern design profile. Perfect for modern or high-end projects. Like all of Porcea Stone’s Elite Collection of outdoor porcelain tiles, this paver is Designed for North America.

This 1970s ranch style home was in need of a whole revival in the kitchen including a complete new orientation in the space. In order to solve the problem of inadequate passage at the garage door, laundry machines were relocated to another area of the home, and a new "drop zone" for mail and phones was created. A dated soffit was removed and the cooking area was relocated to a longer - focal point wall that allows the cook to be more included while entertaining. An updated rustic and simplified craftsman style was chosen to compliment the other elements of stone and beams in the rest of the home. Of specific note is the installation of both induction and gas cooktops under the same real copper venthood for optional cooking methods. Another great kitchen for a wonderful family. Photos by David Cobb Photography.

Window treatments are often needed to solve specific and intricate problems, and we pride ourselves on the knowledge we bring to each and every customer. In this Spring Lake home, the client's sliding glass door looked out onto a deck, a yard, and an intersection that brings cars in from different angles. They wanted to be able to have control of how much they saw through the glass and, of course, how much folks outside were able to see in. Our solution was plantation shutters with Invisitilt (hidden tilt bar) and split-tilt louvers, which provide an array of view-through options by allowing you to open & close sections separately. Mission accomplished!

New windows, floors, powder room and basement: We gave the home new windows, new hardwood floors, and paint throughout. We created a new main floor powder room and a new finished basement containing a living area, three-piece bathroom and new bedroom with egress (tilt and turn) windows. Flipped around and redesigned kitchen: We created a new kitchen. The footprint of the kitchen stayed the same, but we flipped it around and redesigned it. Now it has a walk-in pantry area and more floorspace going in and out, which optimized the flow of traffic. We replaced the old non-functioning mudroom with a new one. Disappearing balcony and drafty door: To create a new space using a balcony in a bedroom, we extended the second storey out to line up with the first floor, and this increased the square footage. In that room we turned a drafty door into a window. We reinstated the rear deck, using as many of the original pieces as we could: There was a leaking roof problem because the original roof pitches were causing ice damming. We designed a new roof to prevent that in the future. New windows, stucco, and the challenge of asbestos: Another challenge was installing new windows in the original stucco finish, which contained asbestos. We waterproofed those properly, future proofing them from leaks. We solved the situation by installing a 5-inch trim around the perimeter of the window. Specialists cut the asbestos back (we had to set up a containment perimeter around each window), and then we placed windows that are five inches wider than the window frames. We used special flashing tapes and sealed them all up behind the stucco.

Porcea Indus is a close alternative to Venetian Gray, Cascade Limestone, Thermal Bluestone, Indus Valley, and Indus Gray Limestones. All of these natural stone products have unique challenges including staining from rust (Venetian Gray), lack of availability (Cascade), and a general lack of charm (Thermal Bluestone). Porcea Indus solves all of these problems and packs a real punch. A sandblasted texture with a subtle off-grey colour tone that is stain-resistant and maintenance-free. The fleuri and shells found on this premium outdoor porcelain paver are both charming and subtle, allowing for an extremely premium and modern design profile. Perfect for modern or high-end projects. Like all of Porcea Stone’s Elite Collection of outdoor porcelain tiles, this paver is Designed for North America.

This house needed a total make-over. My clients wanted a solution between living room and serre which added more light and storing space. Mood Interieur was hired to suggest a new floor plan and to act as a sparring partner. The wall with ceiling high sliding doors and a cupboard over the whole lenght of the wall in the serre solved the light and storing problem. Mood Interieur also designed the tv cupboard and wardrobe closet. All the dark colours were replaced by fresh, white colours combined with greige. A colour which beautifully interacts with the shabby-chic Flexform sofa en the greige blue Bomat carpet. The white and wood Arco tablet tables go perfectly with the white tv-cupboard and new doors. Furniture and curtains are suggested and delivered by Mood Interieur.

Howell Pathways solved the water issues at this pier and beam historic home. Drainage issues have been a problem for years. French drains were added with 3/8” pea gravel. The gravel was bound with Howell Pathways Patented Klingstone Path gravel binder. The water flows into the French drain but is hard. This made it ADA compliant, safe for mowers and asthetically beautiful. Our process is approved by the Historical Society as we have installations at Cololnial Williamsburg, and the homes of Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Booker T Washinton plus many more. We are perfect for your historical site.

PROJECT | Duplicate-Duplex TYPE | private residence / home-studio LOCATION | Phayathai Rd., Bangkok, Thailand OWNER | Ms. Najaree Ratanajiajaroen / Chanon Treenet ARCHITECT | TOUCH Architect Co.,Ltd. FLOOR AREA | 64 sq.m. FLOOR AREA (by proposing) | 75 sq.m. COMPLETION | 2018 PHOTOGRAPHER | Chalermwat Wongchompoo CONTRACTOR | Legend Construction Group A major pain point of staying in 64 sq.m. of duplex condominium unit, which is used for a home-studio for an animator and an artist, is that there is not enough space for dwelling. Moreover, a double-volume space of living area with a huge glass curtain wall, faces West. High temperature occurs all day long, since it allows direct sunlight to come inside. In order to solve both mentioned problems, three addition items are proposed which are, GRID PARTITION, EXTENSION DECK, and STEPPING SPACE. A glass partition not only dividing space between kitchen and living, but also helps reduce electricity charge from air-condition. Grid-like of double glass frame is for stuff and stationery hanging, as to serve the owners’ activities. Extension deck would help filtrating heat from direct sunlight, since an existing high glass facade facing West. An existing staircase for going up to the second-floor bedroom, is added by a proposed space above, since this condominium unit has no enough space for dwelling or storage. In order to utilize the space in a small condominium, creating another staircase above the existing one helps increase the space. The grid partition and the extension deck help ‘decrease’ the electricity charge, while the extension deck and the stepping space help ‘increase’ the space for 11 sq.m.

This 1970s ranch style home was in need of a whole revival in the kitchen including a complete new orientation in the space. In order to solve the problem of inadequate passage at the garage door, laundry machines were relocated to another area of the home, and a new "drop zone" for mail and phones was created. A dated soffit was removed and the cooking area was relocated to a longer - focal point wall that allows the cook to be more included while entertaining. An updated rustic and simplified craftsman style was chosen to compliment the other elements of stone and beams in the rest of the home. Of specific note is the installation of both induction and gas cooktops under the same venthood for optional cooking methods. Also note our preferred location for a warming drawer - 2nd position in a nearby drawer stack where it can easily be used. Another great kitchen for a wonderful family. Photos by David Cobb Photography.

Some rooms never quite find their purpose. That was the case with this space, which had gradually become a combination home office, pantry overflow area, pet zone, and general catch-all for daily life. While it offered plenty of square footage, it wasn’t helping the homeowners stay organized, and valuable storage was scattered between an overcrowded pantry closet and various pieces of furniture throughout the room. Having previously partnered with Drury Design on a kitchen remodel, these homeowners once again turned to Senior Designer Samantha Schoell to help them rethink how their home could better support the way they actually live. What began as a conversation about adding some cabinetry quickly evolved into a comprehensive storage solution — one designed to accommodate everything from groceries and sports equipment to pet supplies and everyday household essentials. Design Objectives: Create Organization: Consolidate pantry overflow, household supplies, and everyday essentials into a single, highly functional space. Support Family Life: Provide dedicated storage for coats, bags, sports equipment, and the routines of an active household. Accommodate Pets: Incorporate thoughtful features for the family’s dogs while maintaining a clean, organized appearance. Maximize Existing Space: Transform an underutilized room without expanding the home’s footprint. Maintain Flexibility: Preserve the room’s long-term versatility and appeal for future homeowners. Design Challenges: Multiple Functions: The room was being used simultaneously as a home office, pantry, storage area, and pet space without a cohesive organizational strategy. Insufficient Pantry Storage: The nearby pantry closet had become overcrowded and difficult to navigate. Visual Clutter: Everyday items, pet supplies, and household necessities lacked dedicated storage locations. Unused Potential: Despite its generous size, the room was not contributing meaningfully to the home’s overall functionality. Balancing Practicality and Style: The homeowners wanted substantial storage without creating a space that felt overly utilitarian. Design Solutions: Purpose-Built Storage Plan: Custom cabinetry was designed to support multiple functions within a unified storage system, allowing the room to serve as a mudroom, pantry extension, household hub, and pet station. Expanded Pantry Capacity: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a secondary refrigerator, and extensive drawer storage dramatically increased food storage and organization capabilities. Hidden Organization: Closed cabinetry conceals household items, sports gear, pet supplies, and everyday clutter, creating a calm and orderly appearance. Full-Room Transformation: Rather than simply adding cabinets to one wall, the design reimagined the entire room, utilizing its footprint to create a true family command center. Furniture-Inspired Cabinetry: Warm wood finishes, decorative hardware, open display shelving, and thoughtful detailing elevate the room beyond pure utility, helping it feel like a natural extension of the home’s design. The most successful remodeling projects often solve problems homeowners have simply learned to live with. In this case, a room that once served several purposes — but excelled at none — was transformed into one of the hardest-working spaces in the home. Today, groceries, pet supplies, seasonal gear, household essentials, and daily routines all have a designated place. Even the family’s dogs were thoughtfully considered, with a built-in resting area integrated into the cabinetry. The result is a room that feels remarkably organized despite supporting countless everyday activities — a reflection of how thoughtful design can bring clarity, efficiency, and calm to the busiest parts of family life.

Flat space in your backyard is important, but in a sloped yard it can be difficult to find that space. Adding retaining walls can solve the problem of not enough flat space.

This Colorado mountain home had rotting cedar siding that was creating water intrusion issues. We solved these problems by removing all the siding and trim, as well as soffits and fascia, wrapping the house with HardieWrap, and installing James Hardie HardiePlank 7" lap siding and James Hardie HardieTrim trim. The homeowner selected Timber Bark for the both the siding and trim from the James Hardie ColorPlus Statement Collection, which has a 15-year finish warranty. How do you like the look?

We took an old dank and dark upstairs game room and made it bright and open with a reclaimed wood wall as a feature, added a 2nd window to let in more light, all new electrical and lighting, a neutral paint, and new hardwood floors. This is a great example of being able to update a space without an enormous budget by making the right architectural and design choices to solve problems with the space. The furnishings wer selected by the owner.

Designer Sandee Daye solved the customer's problem of needing more storage, yet more island seating for company. She put an under island cabinet with a hardwood top on wheels so it could be pulled out and used as a buffet. See the next photo. Ross Van Pelt, photographer.

PROJECT | Duplicate-Duplex TYPE | private residence / home-studio LOCATION | Phayathai Rd., Bangkok, Thailand OWNER | Ms. Najaree Ratanajiajaroen / Chanon Treenet ARCHITECT | TOUCH Architect Co.,Ltd. FLOOR AREA | 64 sq.m. FLOOR AREA (by proposing) | 75 sq.m. COMPLETION | 2018 PHOTOGRAPHER | Chalermwat Wongchompoo CONTRACTOR | Legend Construction Group A major pain point of staying in 64 sq.m. of duplex condominium unit, which is used for a home-studio for an animator and an artist, is that there is not enough space for dwelling. Moreover, a double-volume space of living area with a huge glass curtain wall, faces West. High temperature occurs all day long, since it allows direct sunlight to come inside. In order to solve both mentioned problems, three addition items are proposed which are, GRID PARTITION, EXTENSION DECK, and STEPPING SPACE. A glass partition not only dividing space between kitchen and living, but also helps reduce electricity charge from air-condition. Grid-like of double glass frame is for stuff and stationery hanging, as to serve the owners’ activities. Extension deck would help filtrating heat from direct sunlight, since an existing high glass facade facing West. An existing staircase for going up to the second-floor bedroom, is added by a proposed space above, since this condominium unit has no enough space for dwelling or storage. In order to utilize the space in a small condominium, creating another staircase above the existing one helps increase the space. The grid partition and the extension deck help ‘decrease’ the electricity charge, while the extension deck and the stepping space help ‘increase’ the space for 11 sq.m.

How to tie a dark wood floor to the rest of the room when you want to paint light? Porevit Inc. solves this problem by installing a high gloss dark brown stretch ceiling insert by Laqfoil. This insert also visually enlarges the space by reflecting it, dampens unwanted sound, and adds thermal insulation to the space.

Soft green bead board creates an accent for the island. Touch-latch doors conceal rollouts for extra storage. Wood flooring contrasts beautifully with soft white cabinets and green bead board. Adding a tall pantry beside the elevated microwave and stove solved storage problems.

Elizabeth B. in Cleremont, Florida had a "dead space" in her modern home. A problem many of us have... what to do with those big, open walls in our two-story, cathedral-ceilinged entryways, living rooms, etc.? She solved it with a Mediterranean view. Need some Italian influence in your home? Check out these mural images: http://www.magicmurals.com/subject/italian-scenes.html

New windows, floors, powder room and basement: We gave the home new windows, new hardwood floors, and paint throughout. We created a new main floor powder room and a new finished basement containing a living area, three-piece bathroom and new bedroom with egress (tilt and turn) windows. Flipped around and redesigned kitchen: We created a new kitchen. The footprint of the kitchen stayed the same, but we flipped it around and redesigned it. Now it has a walk-in pantry area and more floorspace going in and out, which optimized the flow of traffic. We replaced the old non-functioning mudroom with a new one. Disappearing balcony and drafty door: To create a new space using a balcony in a bedroom, we extended the second storey out to line up with the first floor, and this increased the square footage. In that room we turned a drafty door into a window. We reinstated the rear deck, using as many of the original pieces as we could: There was a leaking roof problem because the original roof pitches were causing ice damming. We designed a new roof to prevent that in the future. New windows, stucco, and the challenge of asbestos: Another challenge was installing new windows in the original stucco finish, which contained asbestos. We waterproofed those properly, future proofing them from leaks. We solved the situation by installing a 5-inch trim around the perimeter of the window. Specialists cut the asbestos back (we had to set up a containment perimeter around each window), and then we placed windows that are five inches wider than the window frames. We used special flashing tapes and sealed them all up behind the stucco.