This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home. The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living. The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home. The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play. The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. Energy Efficient features include: • The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade • 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques • Foil covered roof sheathing • Extensive use of blown in cellulous • All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass • Tank-less water heaters • Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV. Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency. These items include: • 2x6 walls with staggered studs • Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting • Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows • ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls. The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

A new concrete foundation was built under the house and the house was leveled and the under structure was re-framed and seismically retrofitted. The siding was connected to the foundation with a cedar band trim. The roof eaves were re-built and fascia was added. The tile roof edge was water proofed. Drains were added around the home, rot was repaired, decks were repaired, and the deck parapet wall was replaced.

This one-room renovation reimagined an underused formal dining room into a cozy, conversation-focused sitting room—infused with moody sophistication and architectural interest. With minimal structural limitations, the project offered full creative freedom to rethink the layout and mood of the space. The goal was to create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere: a space less about utility and more about experience. We introduced bold, layered elements—including wall moulding, rich finishes, and a dramatic ceiling wallpaper—to elevate the room without overwhelming it. A curved sofa became the cornerstone of the layout, softening circulation and encouraging connection, while a flexible secondary seating area added versatility. Lighting played a critical role in setting tone and function. A sculptural statement fixture brought visual presence, while layered accent lighting offered warm ambiance for evening use. Every detail—from the ceiling pattern to the furniture silhouettes—was chosen to strike a balance between drama and cohesion, tying in tonal references from adjacent rooms while giving this space its own identity. The result is a distinctive, inviting retreat designed for everything from quiet moments to casual entertaining—proof that even a single room can completely shift the rhythm and feel of a home.

Photo Credit: Sand & Sisal https://www.sandandsisal.com/2016/06/ways-to-refresh-your-front-door.html

This one-room renovation reimagined an underused formal dining room into a cozy, conversation-focused sitting room—infused with moody sophistication and architectural interest. With minimal structural limitations, the project offered full creative freedom to rethink the layout and mood of the space. The goal was to create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere: a space less about utility and more about experience. We introduced bold, layered elements—including wall moulding, rich finishes, and a dramatic ceiling wallpaper—to elevate the room without overwhelming it. A curved sofa became the cornerstone of the layout, softening circulation and encouraging connection, while a flexible secondary seating area added versatility. Lighting played a critical role in setting tone and function. A sculptural statement fixture brought visual presence, while layered accent lighting offered warm ambiance for evening use. Every detail—from the ceiling pattern to the furniture silhouettes—was chosen to strike a balance between drama and cohesion, tying in tonal references from adjacent rooms while giving this space its own identity. The result is a distinctive, inviting retreat designed for everything from quiet moments to casual entertaining—proof that even a single room can completely shift the rhythm and feel of a home.

Expansive, fresh, colorful, playful, classic, and stunning are all words that can be used to describe this one of a kind Shrock Premier Custom Construction Estate. It's thoughtful design offers additional family living quarters connected by a walkway . And check out the unique slide feature next to the formal staircase: simply proof that formal and fun can go together beautifully! www.shrockpremier.com

Michael Gotowala founder of THE HOME OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE.Outdoor Living Country Fabulous The difference between outdoor living and living outdoors fabulously begins with a fabulous design and ends with meticulous workmanship. This multi level outdoor Living country fabulous outdoor kitchen with lower level outdoor great room does just that. The towering stone outdoor kitchen island is seen protruding above the upper level deck with enough room for sit up surround amongst the large full slabs of granite counter. The L shaped outdoor kitchen is complete with a DCS 36" grill head, ALFRESCO power burner, TRUE BEVERAGE outdoor refrigerator, Trash pull all inline with BROWN JORDAN OUTDOOR CABINETRY. Opposite side on the Upper level is an outdoor bar with ALFRESCO Ice bin and beverage center along side a TRUE Wine Cooler. Connecting the sprawling Outdoor kitchen island to the Outdoor beverage center over looking the Pool is Mahogany Deck posts and Black Fiberglass rails allowing the landscape to appear as you see it in the pictures very surreal. Underneath the mahogany deck is a weather proof and waterproof system allowing the lower level to stand high and dry as a great space to live beyond the walls of your home outdoors. This Great outdoor space adorned with outdoor zero clearance fireplace, curved granite dining booth, Heat, lighting, and TV make this a great outdoor room to spend endless hours outdoors no matter what the weather throws at you, Day or night during any of the four seasons Connecticut deserves. This blending of Stone towers, stone columns and Mahogany accented Deck makes outdoor living look and entertain fabulously.

This one-room renovation reimagined an underused formal dining room into a cozy, conversation-focused sitting room—infused with moody sophistication and architectural interest. With minimal structural limitations, the project offered full creative freedom to rethink the layout and mood of the space. The goal was to create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere: a space less about utility and more about experience. We introduced bold, layered elements—including wall moulding, rich finishes, and a dramatic ceiling wallpaper—to elevate the room without overwhelming it. A curved sofa became the cornerstone of the layout, softening circulation and encouraging connection, while a flexible secondary seating area added versatility. Lighting played a critical role in setting tone and function. A sculptural statement fixture brought visual presence, while layered accent lighting offered warm ambiance for evening use. Every detail—from the ceiling pattern to the furniture silhouettes—was chosen to strike a balance between drama and cohesion, tying in tonal references from adjacent rooms while giving this space its own identity. The result is a distinctive, inviting retreat designed for everything from quiet moments to casual entertaining—proof that even a single room can completely shift the rhythm and feel of a home.

Bold Pattern, Warm Soul — Whole-Home Interior Design & Renovation | Raleigh, NC This project is proof that a home can have a strong point of view and still feel completely livable. The homeowners wanted personality — spaces that felt collected, intentional, and a little unexpected. The result is a whole-home transformation where every room tells part of the same cohesive story. The kitchen serves as the heart of it all. Sage green cabinetry with raised panel detailing wraps the entire space, while a bold large-scale botanical wallpaper in warm cream, brown, and black makes an unforgettable statement. The pattern doesn't stop at the kitchen walls — it carries through the built-in bar area and connects to the living room, creating a visual thread that ties the main floor together. White Calacatta-style quartz countertops and backsplash, matte black hardware, mercury glass pendants, and a built-in Sub-Zero refrigerator with custom cabinet surround complete the kitchen's layered look. A built-in window seat breakfast nook with sage cushions adds charm and function in equal measure. The living room anchors the home with drama and warmth. A floor-to-ceiling walnut wood slat accent wall frames the fireplace and soars to the two-story ceiling, flanked by white built-in bookshelves lined with the same botanical wallpaper. The furniture palette — white linen sofa, cognac leather mid-century chairs, and a natural wood coffee table — keeps the space grounded and inviting against the bold backdrop. The nursery is a room unto itself: dusty blue walls and ceiling meet a framed safari toile accent wall, a vintage-inspired black iron crib, and a dramatic black woven drum pendant. Classic and cool with just the right amount of edge. A moody bonus room doubles as a home theater, with dark walls, wood slat paneling, and plush oversized sofas tucked under a sloped ceiling. The primary bathroom rounds out the project with a floor-to-ceiling charcoal shaker vanity, matte black fixtures, and white quartz — sleek, modern, and confident. Every room was designed and executed by a single team — from concept to completion.

A 100" screen with a projector is added for outdoor entertainment. Movies or sports under the stars. Screens can be weather proof or protected from weather. Projectors can be built-in or with a specific location that allows a simple and quick connection. Add as a Savant Scene-projector on, movie starts, fireplace comes alive, lights dim. A glass of wine.

This one-room renovation reimagined an underused formal dining room into a cozy, conversation-focused sitting room—infused with moody sophistication and architectural interest. With minimal structural limitations, the project offered full creative freedom to rethink the layout and mood of the space. The goal was to create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere: a space less about utility and more about experience. We introduced bold, layered elements—including wall moulding, rich finishes, and a dramatic ceiling wallpaper—to elevate the room without overwhelming it. A curved sofa became the cornerstone of the layout, softening circulation and encouraging connection, while a flexible secondary seating area added versatility. Lighting played a critical role in setting tone and function. A sculptural statement fixture brought visual presence, while layered accent lighting offered warm ambiance for evening use. Every detail—from the ceiling pattern to the furniture silhouettes—was chosen to strike a balance between drama and cohesion, tying in tonal references from adjacent rooms while giving this space its own identity. The result is a distinctive, inviting retreat designed for everything from quiet moments to casual entertaining—proof that even a single room can completely shift the rhythm and feel of a home.

Michael Gotowala founder of THE HOME OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE. Connecticut's Best in outdoor Kitchens.Outdoor Living Country Fabulous The difference between outdoor living and living outdoors fabulously begins with a fabulous design and ends with meticulous workmanship. This multi level outdoor Living country fabulous outdoor kitchen with lower level outdoor great room does just that. The towering stone outdoor kitchen island is seen protruding above the upper level deck with enough room for sit up surround amongst the large full slabs of granite counter. The L shaped outdoor kitchen is complete with a DCS 36" grill head, ALFRESCO power burner, TRUE BEVERAGE outdoor refrigerator, Trash pull all inline with BROWN JORDAN OUTDOOR CABINETRY. Opposite side on the Upper level is an outdoor bar with ALFRESCO Ice bin and beverage center along side a TRUE Wine Cooler. Connecting the sprawling Outdoor kitchen island to the Outdoor beverage center over looking the Pool is Mahogany Deck posts and Black Fiberglass rails allowing the landscape to appear as you see it in the pictures very surreal. Underneath the mahogany deck is a weather proof and waterproof system allowing the lower level to stand high and dry as a great space to live beyond the walls of your home outdoors. This Great outdoor space adorned with outdoor zero clearance fireplace, curved granite dining booth, Heat, lighting, and TV make this a great outdoor room to spend endless hours outdoors no matter what the weather throws at you, Day or night during any of the four seasons Connecticut deserves. This blending of Stone towers, stone columns and Mahogany accented Deck makes outdoor living look and entertain fabulously. To live beyond the walls of your own home fabulously you must feel fabulous about your space. If not, reconsider your design. Call us today at 1-855-GET OUTDOORS. For more great outdoor kitchen ideas go to www.OUTDOORKITCHENDESIGNER.com THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE

This one-room renovation reimagined an underused formal dining room into a cozy, conversation-focused sitting room—infused with moody sophistication and architectural interest. With minimal structural limitations, the project offered full creative freedom to rethink the layout and mood of the space. The goal was to create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere: a space less about utility and more about experience. We introduced bold, layered elements—including wall moulding, rich finishes, and a dramatic ceiling wallpaper—to elevate the room without overwhelming it. A curved sofa became the cornerstone of the layout, softening circulation and encouraging connection, while a flexible secondary seating area added versatility. Lighting played a critical role in setting tone and function. A sculptural statement fixture brought visual presence, while layered accent lighting offered warm ambiance for evening use. Every detail—from the ceiling pattern to the furniture silhouettes—was chosen to strike a balance between drama and cohesion, tying in tonal references from adjacent rooms while giving this space its own identity. The result is a distinctive, inviting retreat designed for everything from quiet moments to casual entertaining—proof that even a single room can completely shift the rhythm and feel of a home.

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home. The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living. The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home. The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play. The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. Energy Efficient features include: • The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade • 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques • Foil covered roof sheathing • Extensive use of blown in cellulous • All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass • Tank-less water heaters • Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV. Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency. These items include: • 2x6 walls with staggered studs • Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting • Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows • ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls. The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

The GE Slate Series provides a rich and elegant stone-inspired finish, a popular style because of its versatility to match any design for any kitchen. The dark matte look is smudge proof and resist fingerprints, making it easy to clean and maintain. Capable of holding magnets, you can display your favorite photos, notes or weekly lists as you would be able to do so with other refrigerator products.

This Glencoe kitchen is designed to feel effortless — but make no mistake, every element was carefully composed. Floor-to-ceiling custom millwork provides elegant storage while allowing the stunning natural grain to become a design feature in itself. The quartz slab backsplash and matching island bring cohesion and visual calm, framing the kitchen in clean geometry and luxurious simplicity. Light oak tones and brushed gold accents soften the modern lines, while wide pendant lighting adds a quiet sculptural moment over the island. The entire space is bathed in natural light from tall windows and French doors, blurring the lines between inside and out. This kitchen doesn't shout for attention — it invites you in gently, encouraging presence, connection, and clarity. New Explode Construction brought their signature craftsmanship and modern sensibility to this serene, tailored space — proof that minimalist design, when done right, can be full of soul.

Flashing between the framing and the windows creates a weather-proof connection.
Example of an exterior home design in San Francisco

Mid-sized elegant backyard patio photo in Toronto with decking and a gazebo

This luxury organic modern living room was thoughtfully designed to serve as the heart of this custom multigenerational home, blending elevated style with everyday functionality for families of all ages. Featuring a sophisticated neutral color palette, layered textures, warm wood tones, and curated furnishings, this space embodies timeless luxury interior design while creating a welcoming environment for gathering and connection. Designed for real life without compromising beauty, the living room incorporates durable performance fabrics, life-proof materials, and highly functional furnishings that stand up to the demands of multigenerational living. The open-concept layout creates seamless flow throughout the home, making it ideal for both intimate family moments and large-scale entertaining. Every detail was intentionally selected to reflect the homeowners' lifestyle while ensuring the space remains timeless, comfortable, and effortlessly elegant for years to come. Interior Vision Design Studio specializes in luxury custom home design, new construction interior design, multigenerational home design, and full-service interior design for clients throughout Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island, Charleston, the South Carolina coast, Maui, and the Hawaiian Islands, as well as virtual interior design projects nationwide.