Our mission at Sanders Brick is to provide professional expertise to our clients. We offer professional stone masonry services in South Pasadena, taking care of outstanding construction/installation to individual homeowners, businesses and other service providers. Call Sanders Brick to learn more or to schedule an estimate. Stone Masonry in South Pasadena, CA - http://www.sandersbricks.com/

Our mission at Sanders Brick is to provide professional expertise to our clients. We offer professional brick siding services in Alhambra, taking care of outstanding construction/installation to individual homeowners, businesses and other service providers. Call Sanders Brick to learn more or to schedule an estimate. Brick Siding in Alhambra, CA - http://www.sandersbricks.com/

The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but the dining room is where the family gathers to enjoy special occasions, create and pass on traditions, and savour each other’s company free from distractions. The family behind this particular dining room enjoys doing just that. When they are not traveling the world, Matthew and Anna (names changed) love to cook meals at home with their teenage daughter, entertain family and friends, and live amongst their cherished travel souvenirs and heirlooms. Their dining room, however, was far from the perfect backdrop for these experiences. Before: Dining Room: When Matthew and Anna contacted us, they imagined a space that would comfortably seat 8 to 10 people and incorporate their beautiful inherited dining table and sideboard in a fresh, modern way. Above all, they wanted a dining room that they would feel proud to share. They worked with us to design, lightly renovate, and furnish their dining room and adjacent living space. Now, the room is nothing short of inviting and elevated. Classic Yet Contemporary Dining Room: Viewed from the living area, the dining room is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Matthew and Anna wanted dark blue for the walls, and we couldn’t have been happier to find the perfect shade for them. By leaning darker, this rich blue creates the perception of depth, making the room feel enticing, comfortable and secluded. The previous built-ins were underwhelming and lacked function, so we designed wider, taller, double sided cabinets that integrated the existing bulk-head, and then accessorized the shelves with the family’s travel finds, books, and decor. Topping these units with brass art lights not only blends contemporary and traditional styles, it also draws attention to the dining table’s modern show-stopping chandelier. You can’t miss it. Inside the dining room, the effect is equally impressive: enveloping yet spacious, warm yet cool, classic yet contemporary. We incorporated their heirloom pieces seamlessly into the design thanks to the 1:2 ratio. For every traditional piece, we introduced two more modern or contemporary pieces — clean lines, subtle curves, and lustrous brass hardware. The result is a collected yet updated look. In any room with dark walls, lighting is of the utmost importance. We placed a mirror adjacent to the window to reflect natural light throughout the room, and we kept the trim and ceiling white for brightness. To provide maximum versatility, we provided multiple light sources that can be adjusted to create different levels of light to suit any mood or occasion. These include: pot lights and a chandelier on dimmers, a sculptural trilight lamp on the sideboard, and art lights on the bookcases and above important art pieces. The built-ins have another surprise waiting inside this special dining room: Double-sided built-ins: dining room shelving and living room shelving. Rather than keep them white like we did in the living room, we painted the back wall of the book cases the same dark blue as the walls in the rest of the room. This reduces the contrast with the surrounding walls and emphasizes the white outline of the cabinets. We also love the dark blue walls’ role as a beautiful backdrop for this family’s treasures. The brass accessories and hand-painted vases and bowls feel like part of the experience. Of course, what is beauty without function? It may not look like it, but the base storage is only accessible from the dining room side. The units include deep cabinets for storing serving ware, as well as another delightful surprise: silverware drawers lined in luxurious navy velvet! Lastly, we designed this beautiful nook for their heirloom sideboard. From afar, the wall looks as if it has texture and perhaps a touch of shine. Up close, you will notice that it is actually navy blue wallpaper with tiny golden dots. This unique touch accentuates the brass in the room touches throughout the space.. The room feels curated, contemporary, and full of character. Words of Praise: Anna and Matthew were thrilled with their new dining room and with the design process itself, which is always the highest compliment. They said: “Working with Lori and her team at Simply Home Decorating was a great experience. The design they came up with was both beautiful and practical for our family. Renovations can be stressful but working with Simply Home made the process much more pleasant. “Simply Home's project management and their longstanding relationships with reliable trades meant we could relax, knowing that everything was taken care of. If an issue arose, the entire Simply Home team was quick to address it. They were excellent at communicating with us—we never felt like we didn't know what was going on. We would highly recommend working with Simply Home Decorating.” Thank you, Matthew and Anna! We are honoured to have been part of your journey and wish your family many happy memories in these new spaces. Now, is it your turn? Are you ready to uncover the hidden potential in your home? If so, contact us here to start the conversation or download my guide Uncovering the Hidden Potential in Your Home below to learn more about what we can do for you.

If you are looking to fill out a large outdoor space with furniture that displays elegant style and provides your guests with complete comfort, the 7 Pc. Coronado Wicker Sofa Set by Sunset West (2101-SS-7Pc) is just what you are looking for. The set seats nine adults and is highlighted by the sophisticated look of driftwood wicker made from synthetic resin and the comfort of plush seating cushions wrapped in Sunbrella brand fabrics. Choose a Sunbrella fabric from the options listed above. Also feel free to customize your set by using the drop down option menus above. This Sofa Set Includes: one love seat, a sofa, club chair, a double chaise, a chaise ottoman, a coffee table, and an end table. Additional Coronado pieces can easily be added to the collection by using the drop down window above to customize your configuration or by scrolling below to add related items. Features at a Glance Premium resin wicker in Driftwood color Cushion fabric resistant to stains, water, and oil UV Ray protection on wicker for increased longevity Pictured cushions included - custom Sunbrella® fabric options available Dimensions Sofa: 106"W x 35"D x 35"H (2101-23) Love Seat: 75"W x 35"D x 35"H (2101-22) Club Chair: 35"W x 35"D x 35"H (2101-21) Double Chaise: 63"W x 75"D x 29"H (2101-99) Ottoman: 50"W x 28"D x 17"H Coffee Table: 48"W x 32"D x 20"H (2101-CT) End Table: 22"W x 22"D x 22"H (2101-ET)

These past clients wanted to renovate and redecorate their 25-year-old family room, primary bedroom, and ensuite. They wanted a vibrant and fresh colour palette for the family room. We replaced the flooring, designed a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and provided new furnishings and décor. In the bedroom and ensuite, they wanted a fresh and spa-like colour palette. Both function and beauty were important to them. We changed the ensuite layout to allow for a large walk-in shower and two vanities. Beautiful wallpaper and finishes adorn this new space. The bedroom was given a major facelift. New furniture, bedding, drapery, and wallcoverings provide them with a bedroom to retire to at night. For more about Lumar Interiors, see here: https://www.lumarinteriors.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.lumarinteriors.com/portfolio/woodbridge-family-home-renovation-decor/

At Acre Windows, we pride ourselves on delivering beautiful and functional home upgrades, and our latest installation in Belvedere, NJ, is no exception! This week, we installed an Andersen 400 Series gliding patio door, offering the perfect blend of style, functionality, and durability. A Modern Look with a Timeless Touch For this project, the homeowners chose a stunning two-tone finish: a natural pine interior and a crisp white exterior. The natural pine interior adds warmth and elegance to the home’s interior spaces, giving a timeless, natural look. Meanwhile, the white exterior perfectly complements the modern aesthetic, providing a clean, sophisticated curb appeal that stands up to the elements. Why the Andersen 400 Series? The Andersen 400 Series gliding patio door is known for its versatility and durability. With its dual-finish option, it seamlessly blends interior and exterior design needs. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also offers superior energy efficiency and smooth gliding operation—ideal for high-traffic patio areas. This modern patio door upgrade provides a large glass surface area, which maximizes natural light while offering excellent insulation to keep your home comfortable year-round. Andersen Certified Installer: As an Andersen Certified Installer, Acre Windows ensures that every Andersen product is installed to the highest standards. Our certification reflects our expertise and commitment to quality, giving homeowners peace of mind that their installation is done right. From the precision installation of your Andersen patio doors to personalized service, we deliver long-lasting results you can trust. Why Choose Acre Windows? At Acre Windows, we specialize in custom solutions to enhance your home’s aesthetic and functionality. Our expert team ensures top-quality installation that meets your specific needs, whether it’s for style, energy efficiency, or ease of use. If you’re in Belvedere, NJ, or the surrounding areas and are considering upgrading your patio doors, contact Acre Windows to learn more about our range of Andersen patio door options!

LEED Certification Level: V4 Builder: BPC Green Builders, LLC Architect: Trillium Architects. The Taft School faculty home serves as a high performance residence and learning lab for students. The project also earned certification through ENERGY STAR, Indoor airPLUS, Water Sense, PHIUS, and Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Homes with Living Building Challenge Petal recognition pending. The project team was honored with third place in the 2014 Connecticut Zero Energy Home Challenge. Excluding the photovoltaic installation the HERS index was 33, and with the 13.1 kW the HERS index is -14. A year of utility bills show the home is producing more electricity than it uses. Located on a quiet street adjacent to campus the existing, historic home was deconstructed and materials donated or reused where possible. Challenged to find high efficiency windows that were historic commission acceptable, the team installed Klearwall awnings or casements over fixed glass (to mimic double hungs) with simulated divided lites (u-values as low as 0.13). A high solar heat gain coefficient (0.58) facilitates the passive solar gain for winter months, while well designed overhangs and a pergola shade summer sun. Double stud walls have 2¼” closed cell foam plus 8½” dense pack cellulose for a R-49 cavity. The exterior sheathing is R-6.6 Zip Wall System with taped seams to create the continuous air barrier. Inside the solid concrete foundation is 3” closed cell foam behind 2x4 stud walls and R-32 cellulose in the cavity. Prefabricated TJI joists frame the attic floor, an insulated “room” houses the heat recovery ventilator and ductwork, and blown in cellulose blankets it all in R-86. The house tested 0.6ACH50 proving the effectiveness of its air-tight envelope and attention to air sealing. Heating and cooling is provided by efficient air source heat pumps (9.2 HSPF, 16.5 SEER) and delivered by short duct runs which tested extremely tight. A heat pump water heater provides domestic hot water and an on-demand switch, with an occupancy sensor at each bath, ensures hot water is delivered fast and efficiently. Low flow fixtures are WaterSense certified, appliances are Energy Star labeled, and all LED lighting. A Zehnder Novus 300 (93.3% efficient) HRV supplies 112 cfm of continuous fresh air while using only 32 watts of power and running quietly. The homeowners control the mechanical ventilation through the intuitive wall-mounted control pad to shut off or increase the ventilation. Chemicals and contaminants were reduced by using low VOC and GreenGuard certified sealants, adhesives, primers, and paints. A walk-off matt at the side entry and hardwood floors help control dirt and dust. The granite front steps were salvaged and local stone used for the patio and stone walls. Storm water runoff from the roof, patio, and driveway is managed by the rain garden. The native landscaping is low maintenance, a community garden produces vegetables, and the chicken coop is powered by its own roof mounted PV panels. Taft School Director of Environmental Stewardship, Carly Borken has used the design and construction process as a teaching tool for her science classes. With access to the home monitoring system they can virtually access the residents’ consumption.

These past clients wanted to renovate and redecorate their 25-year-old family room, primary bedroom, and ensuite. They wanted a vibrant and fresh colour palette for the family room. We replaced the flooring, designed a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and provided new furnishings and décor. In the bedroom and ensuite, they wanted a fresh and spa-like colour palette. Both function and beauty were important to them. We changed the ensuite layout to allow for a large walk-in shower and two vanities. Beautiful wallpaper and finishes adorn this new space. The bedroom was given a major facelift. New furniture, bedding, drapery, and wallcoverings provide them with a bedroom to retire to at night. For more about Lumar Interiors, see here: https://www.lumarinteriors.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.lumarinteriors.com/portfolio/woodbridge-family-home-renovation-decor/

This year’s Designer Showhouse was another great opportunity to give back to our Montecito community while showcasing our work as a fully integrated interior design studio. This time around, we participated in the first Home & Garden Designer Showcase by creating the lounge, bar area, and powder room of a nearly 6,000 square foot home in the neighborhood. The beautiful MARIA LAURA table from our SORELLA furniture line provides a joyful centerpiece to the seating area and shows how flexible and outside-the-box our furniture designs can be. The distinct piano bench, also one of our designs, gives the space a sophisticated touch, and pillows from our MB Home Collection provide a perfect complement to the plush chairs. All of the staging and décor accessories are from louis + rocco, our home decor styling rental business. Project designed by Montecito interior designer Margarita Bravo. She serves Montecito as well as surrounding areas such as Hope Ranch, Summerland, Santa Barbara, Isla Vista, Mission Canyon, Carpinteria, Goleta, Ojai, Los Olivos, and Solvang. --- For more about MARGARITA BRAVO, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/portfolio/denver-2021-designer-showhouse/

The large picture windows provide a beautiful view in this elegant sunroom. The combination used allows for a maximum view from ceiling to floor, providing a wall of windows from every view. Photographer: Justin Krug Builder: Axiom Luxury Homes Architect: Mascord

A Jack and Jill bathroom is a shared full bathroom with two or more entrances. Jack and Jill bathrooms conserve space while providing direct en-suite bathroom access from one or more bedrooms. You’ll often find Jack and Jill bathrooms sandwiched between two secondary bedrooms, with access from each bedroom. Another, less common configuration provides direct access from one bedroom plus access from a hallway for guests or visitors. Want to learn more about Jack and Jill bathrooms? We’ll give an overview, examples, and tips below.

Alexia Fodere
Example of an eclectic kids' room design in Miami

Kitchen remodel in Shakopee, MN by Twin Cities design/build remodeler, White Birch Design. To learn more, visit www.whitebirchdesignllc.com
Inspiration for a transitional kitchen remodel in Minneapolis

We were excited to provide an Asian Inspired Gate Latch to Bejar Gate Company in San Diego for a project in gorgeous Rancho Santa Fe. As a family business ourself, we love to learn about thriving companies that are family-owned. Bejar Gate has been in business for 37 years and is the oldest and best known gate company in San Diego County. Three generations of Bejars work there on a daily basis. How neat is that?! This garden gate is made of square tube steel frame and clad with Ipe wood. The customer wanted a gate to complement her Asian themed home in the exclusive neighborhood of Rancho Santa Fe, California. Jamie at Bejar Gate shared, “We found the perfect hardware from 360 Yardware. The gate turned out lovely and our customer could not be happier.” If you’re in San Diego County and looking for a gate builder, give Bejar Gate a call! 360 Yardware

This project was featured in Midwest Home magazine as the winner of ASID Life in Color. The addition of a kitchen with custom shaker-style cabinetry and a large shiplap island is perfect for entertaining and hosting events for family and friends. Quartz counters that mimic the look of marble were chosen for their durability and ease of maintenance. Open shelving with brass sconces above the sink create a focal point for the large open space. Putting a modern spin on the traditional nautical/coastal theme was a goal. We took the quintessential palette of navy and white and added pops of green, stylish patterns, and unexpected artwork to create a fresh bright space. Grasscloth on the back of the built in bookshelves and console table along with rattan and the bentwood side table add warm texture. Finishes and furnishings were selected with a practicality to fit their lifestyle and the connection to the outdoors. A large sectional along with the custom cocktail table in the living room area provide ample room for game night or a quiet evening watching movies with the kids. To learn more visit https://k2interiordesigns.com To view article in Midwest Home visit https://midwesthome.com/interior-spaces/life-in-color-2019/ Photography - Spacecrafting

A complete gut rehab was needed to create this modern kitchen. With features such as a rustic hardwood floor, light-colored cabinets and walls, dark wooden peninsula with custom granite countertops, white wooden bar stools, can lights, subway tile backsplash, ceiling fan, and silver appliances, this space will suit this family’s needs and lifestyle for years to come. Project designed by Skokie renovation firm, Chi Renovation & Design. They serve the Chicagoland area, and it's surrounding suburbs, with an emphasis on the North Side and North Shore. You'll find their work from the Loop through Lincoln Park, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, and all of the way up to Lake Forest. For more about Chi Renovation & Design, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/galleries/kitchen-dining/

At every Weinstein showroom, there’s more going on than meets the eye. Our expert design consultants will guide you to create your personal and exceptional Kitchen or Bathroom. Plan and learn, See things up close and in person, Experience brands you won’t find in ordinary stores. See more at: http://weinsteinluxury.com

This Altadena home is the perfect example of modern farmhouse flair. The powder room flaunts an elegant mirror over a strapping vanity; the butcher block in the kitchen lends warmth and texture; the living room is replete with stunning details like the candle style chandelier, the plaid area rug, and the coral accents; and the master bathroom’s floor is a gorgeous floor tile. Project designed by Courtney Thomas Design in La Cañada. Serving Pasadena, Glendale, Monrovia, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, and Altadena. For more about Courtney Thomas Design, click here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/portfolio/new-construction-altadena-rustic-modern/

We converted an underused back yard into a modern outdoor living space. A bright tiled planter anchors an otherwise neutral space. The decking is ipe hardwood, the fence is stained cedar, and cast concrete with gravel adds texture at the fire pit. Photos copyright Laurie Black Photography.