This project is another example of how to maximize small spaces. This customer’s small Brentwood yard was centered around their new plunge pool. However, the existing pavers and layout left much to be desired. We reworked the pavers to create usable spaces and clean lines, and a vines and lighting work with the custom pergola to increase the privacy and add a soft vertical element to encourage the intimate feel of the space. Two other structures block the pool equipment and AC compressor from sight. This reduces the visual weight of these areas and allows the eye to focus on the crown jewel of the space… the pool.

u2014 ALE: Wayne Rain Garden Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association u2014 ALE: Wayne Rain Garden Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence winner Category: Residential Up to $15,000 Award Level: Gold Project Description: Our company was contracted by the client to provide a creative solution to an ongoing drainage problem. Their property is located within 30 feet of a local stream that collects storm water from the surrounding area. The nearby stream and high water table caused the lawn area at the side of their home to flood and to remain waterlogged for a few days after each storm. The client not only had difficulty growing plants in the existing conditions, but also had a problem with mosquitoes due to standing water. Our goal was to design a self-contained, naturalistic rain garden that slowed storm water runoff, allowed for percolation, and promoted infiltration while permitting excess clean water to enter the nearby stream with diminished force. As designed, the rain garden allows the earth to slowly and more naturally absorb excess storm water while filtering out toxins such as excess nitrogen and phosphorous which are frequently found in the landscape, therefore reducing the contaminants entering the stream. A percolation test was conducted with criteria of absorbing a one-inch rainstorm within four hours without overflow. The one-inch storm calculation included an existing downspout from the home, which would be piped into the rain garden to reduce roof runoff. The first test failed due to a deep layer of high clay-content soil. Excavation continued until a layer of sandy loam was reached, the percolation test was repeated, and a successful test result was achieved. Next, the entire rain garden basin was excavated to the sandy loam layer and the soil amended with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media. Geotextile fabric was placed to help reduce migration of the surface stone into the soil and allow for minimal maintenance. Gravel, river stone and small boulders were carefully placed to achieve the look of a natural streambed. A palette of mostly native plants with a few non-invasive ornamentals were chosen for their ability to survive in extreme conditions ranging from floods to drought and were placed according to their specific preferences. Wetland plants were chosen for the lowest portion of the rain garden as that area remains saturated for longer periods of time, with a Chionanthus virginicus as a focal point surrounded by irises and ferns at the lowest depth. Plants tolerant of drier conditions were chosen for the upper edges of the garden. The beautiful colors of Monarda, Ligularia, Eupatorium, Solidago, Chelone, and Rudbeckia were scattered within the upper edge, while movement and softness were incorporated by use of the graceful Nassella that lines the border. Finally, winter interest was provided with a backdrop of Cornus sericea. As built, this small rain garden creates tremendous impact by decreasing the amount of storm water runoff not only on our client's property, but also in the neighboring stream. It serves as a means of slowing the water and providing an area for infiltration back into the earth. The plants provide a habitat for birds, butterflies, and insects, working in harmony with nature and providing beautiful visual interest year-round. Photo Credit: Lisa C. Falls

Exterior dimensions (in) 51.5 L x 36.25 W x 33.75 H Inspired by ancient Japanese traditions of soaking in Ofuro tubs, the True Ofuro Japanese style bathtub is a ‘sit and soak’, solid surface bathtub, featuring a deep design for a full-body immersion. Crafted in Italy, this immaculately sculpted tub is available with an optional inline water heater and digital control panel with temperature display, which will reduce water consumption and provide for a prolonged soaking experience at very comfortable temperatures. One of the True Ofuro's key features is it's carefully designed elevated rim for improved bathers neck and head support, and the convenient ergonomic seating, which allows the body to be comfortably emerged to maximum water capacity. The international industrial design team, commissioned by Aquatica to create this product, used advanced CAD tools, modeling and repeated testing with real size prototype units, in order to reach the optimal balance between ergonomic comfort and visual appeal for this one of a kind bathtub. Thanks to the AquateX™ material, this Japanese soaking tub retains heat for much longer and has a silky and smooth surface. Besides being one of our most space conscious bathtubs, the freestanding and petite construction of this Japanese style bathtub means that it can be installed pretty much anywhere in your bathroom.

This project is another example of how to maximize small spaces. This customer’s small Brentwood yard was centered around their new plunge pool. However, the existing pavers and layout left much to be desired. We reworked the pavers to create usable spaces and clean lines, and a vines and lighting work with the custom pergola to increase the privacy and add a soft vertical element to encourage the intimate feel of the space. Two other structures block the pool equipment and AC compressor from sight. This reduces the visual weight of these areas and allows the eye to focus on the crown jewel of the space… the pool.

This project is another example of how to maximize small spaces. This customer’s small Brentwood yard was centered around their new plunge pool. However, the existing pavers and layout left much to be desired. We reworked the pavers to create usable spaces and clean lines, and a vines and lighting work with the custom pergola to increase the privacy and add a soft vertical element to encourage the intimate feel of the space. Two other structures block the pool equipment and AC compressor from sight. This reduces the visual weight of these areas and allows the eye to focus on the crown jewel of the space… the pool.

View this 1960's vintage bathroom transform from a two sink bathroom to a one sink contemporary main bathroom. Reducing the size of this main bathroom allowed for enough space to add an ensuite off the master bedroom. This met the needs of the home owner and increased the value of the home by adding an additional bathroom to the main floor

This homeowner wanted to modernize the small kitchen and add more countertop space around the cramped cooking area. To accomplish this task, the refrigerator was moved to its own cubby space along an adjacent wall. The soffit was modified to allow taller upper cabinetry with a small crown. The client selected a microwave drawer instead of the old over-the-range microwave/hood combo units.

Replaced "builder grade" three cabinet white island with 3 feet of additional cabinetry to include a double trash pull out and bookcase end for cookbook storage/other. Added three additional 12" deep cabinets to back side of island (at seating) to provide seasonal storage. Seated side cabinet width was reduced to allow for pull up of two additional seats at each island end.

The Flojet Pump works great with Eccotemp L5, L7 and L10 Tankless Water Heaters. It features a built-in pulsation eliminator that ensures smooth flow without the need for an accumulator tank. Soft, absorbing mounts reduce annoying vibration and noise and the self-priming feature allows the pump to safely run dry. Snap-in _" port fittings simplify installation. Made of corrosion resistant materials, the Flojet water pump will keep your water pressurized for years to come.

These modest homeowners were looking for drainage solutions, low maintenance plantings, and an entertainment space they could enjoy outside. Mowing the grass had been a pain in the past, so with this design we decided to remove it entirely. Instead, more native grasses were utilized to take in water and reduce erosion. A new fence modernized and updated the space and allowed the interior of the backyard to be leveled providing more opportunities for design elements like a floating bench and custom built fire pit.

There are several engineered components in the main support structure for this deck creation. Large subterranean footings were used to reduce the number of footings needed and to allow the structure to extend for long distances. Glulam beams were used as the main substructure which then held the intermediate structure directly below the deck surface. The siding was removed from the house so that the wall framing could be modified to carry the additional loads from the structure. The final piece of the substructure installation was comprehensive sealing and flashing at all the house integration points to prevent any water damage.

Built in cabinets and office table perfect for your home office needs. They are customized to fit the size of the room and to make sure that all spaces are maximized to the full. Ample shelf spaces are provided to reduce clutter in office and home spaces. Provided in this photo is a black table with a center table to maximize center space of the room. Cabinets are also built in to provide space for items that need to be kept. Drawers are also built in to allow storage of small items for the office. Gray walls are used and a beige to light brown were used for the fixture to contrast the overall theme of the home office.

Double T Screened Patios enclosed a covered patio in the Union Park community of Aubrey, TX, with a custom Sunspace WeatherMaster Series 200 sunroom for homeowners who wanted year-round use without sacrificing their backyard views. Floor-to-ceiling tinted vinyl panels in a black powder-coated aluminum frame reduce glare and UV while sliding to allow up to 75% ventilation, and an integrated screen system keeps bugs out whether the windows are open or closed, turning a standard patio into a polished, weather-protected outdoor room that fits the home’s modern aesthetic.

Pond House Master bath with double pedestal sinks and mosaic tile Gridley Graves
Alcove shower - large craftsman master black and white tile and subway tile porcelain tile, multicolored floor and double-sink alcove shower idea in Atlanta with furniture-like cabinets, gray cabinets, gray walls, a pedestal sink, marble countertops, a hinged shower door, multicolored countertops and a freestanding vanity

Another cabinet with retractable doors houses a bake center. The mixer and blender can remain easily accessable but don't crowd the countertops of the main kitchen space. Note the rollout shelving below. A spice pullout is also housed in the base cabinetry right under the cookbooks. Photography by Chrissy Racho.

Erika Bierman Photography
Inspiration for a transitional single-wall kitchen remodel in Los Angeles with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances and gray backsplash

Holly Hill, a retirement home, whose owner's hobbies are gardening and restoration of classic cars, is nestled into the site contours to maximize views of the lake and minimize impact on the site. Holly Hill is comprised of three wings joined by bridges: A wing facing a master garden to the east, another wing with workshop and a central activity, living, dining wing. Similar to a radiator the design increases the amount of exterior wall maximizing opportunities for natural ventilation during temperate months. Other passive solar design features will include extensive eaves, sheltering porches and high-albedo roofs, as strategies for considerably reducing solar heat gain. Daylighting with clerestories and solar tubes reduce daytime lighting requirements. Ground source geothermal heat pumps and superior to code insulation ensure minimal space conditioning costs. Corten steel siding and concrete foundation walls satisfy client requirements for low maintenance and durability. All light fixtures are LEDs. Open and screened porches are strategically located to allow pleasant outdoor use at any time of day, particular season or, if necessary, insect challenge. Dramatic cantilevers allow the porches to project into the site’s beautiful mixed hardwood tree canopy without damaging root systems. Guest arrive by vehicle with glimpses of the house and grounds through penetrations in the concrete wall enclosing the garden. One parked they are led through a garden composed of pavers, a fountain, benches, sculpture and plants. Views of the lake can be seen through and below the bridges. Primary client goals were a sustainable low-maintenance house, primarily single floor living, orientation to views, natural light to interiors, maximization of individual privacy, creation of a formal outdoor space for gardening, incorporation of a full workshop for cars, generous indoor and outdoor social space for guests and parties.

Alcove shower - mid-sized contemporary master multicolored tile limestone floor alcove shower idea in DC Metro with an undermount sink, open cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, a two-piece toilet and white walls

Holly Hill, a retirement home, whose owner's hobbies are gardening and restoration of classic cars, is nestled into the site contours to maximize views of the lake and minimize impact on the site. Holly Hill is comprised of three wings joined by bridges: A wing facing a master garden to the east, another wing with workshop and a central activity, living, dining wing. Similar to a radiator the design increases the amount of exterior wall maximizing opportunities for natural ventilation during temperate months. Other passive solar design features will include extensive eaves, sheltering porches and high-albedo roofs, as strategies for considerably reducing solar heat gain. Daylighting with clerestories and solar tubes reduce daytime lighting requirements. Ground source geothermal heat pumps and superior to code insulation ensure minimal space conditioning costs. Corten steel siding and concrete foundation walls satisfy client requirements for low maintenance and durability. All light fixtures are LEDs. Open and screened porches are strategically located to allow pleasant outdoor use at any time of day, particular season or, if necessary, insect challenge. Dramatic cantilevers allow the porches to project into the site’s beautiful mixed hardwood tree canopy without damaging root systems. Guest arrive by vehicle with glimpses of the house and grounds through penetrations in the concrete wall enclosing the garden. One parked they are led through a garden composed of pavers, a fountain, benches, sculpture and plants. Views of the lake can be seen through and below the bridges. Primary client goals were a sustainable low-maintenance house, primarily single floor living, orientation to views, natural light to interiors, maximization of individual privacy, creation of a formal outdoor space for gardening, incorporation of a full workshop for cars, generous indoor and outdoor social space for guests and parties.