We present the first Carbon Neutral collection by Silestone®. A commitment to sustainability in which we reduce and offset the emissions of the manufacturing process with reforestation projects. Sunlit Days is inspired by the evocative Mediterranean shades of a unique lifestyle.

This is an example of a rustic landscaping in Portland.

This Brazilian dolomite stands out with a clean white background and elegant grey and brown veining, offering the timeless look of marble with added durability. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas, Venatino White is part of our best-selling Venatino line and comes in honed or leather finishes to reduce etching. A refined choice for projects that demand both elegance and resilience.

This is a private residence that was constructed primarily of “uncut sticks” which utilized the standard length framing members, i.e. stud wall lumber. What’s unique about this method is that they were designed and nailed into place without cutting them and were cut only to frame windows and doors. The dimensions of the framing members as found in the lumber yard determined the height, width and depth of this design. The design approach is derived from the project developer’s request to implement cost savings methodologies that would allow custom, modern architecture that competes in price with the neo-colonial builder grade homes in the surrounding suburban neighborhood. To do this, he needed to build at the same price point as the comparable builder grade homes. Another benefit to this approach saved a significant amount of time in constructing the home. By not requiring the carpenters to trim all the framing members to meet predetermined dimensions, they were able to complete their work by carrying in two arms all of the leftover lumber remaining on the house. By eliminating construction waste and reducing labor, the project was able to achieve significant savings.

We had a several challenges to face with this project. Not only did we need to update a dated landscape to accommodate two seemingly different design tastes (modern & minimalistic vs natural english garden), we were tasked with improving the property’s drainage, improving the driveway access, reducing water usage and plant maintenance, and fixing a crumbling wall. To marry the two design tastes, we started with the more modern elements of metal planters and softened the landscape with mass plantings of ornamental grasses and native sedge. These grasses act as a turf replacement that do not need to be mowed and require less regular watering. On each side of the yard we constructed new cedar fences to provide updated and additional privacy. In addition, we poured a new concrete wall to replace the existing retaining wall and play off the new modern vibe.

We had a several challenges to face with this project. Not only did we need to update a dated landscape to accommodate two seemingly different design tastes (modern & minimalistic vs natural english garden), we were tasked with improving the property’s drainage, improving the driveway access, reducing water usage and plant maintenance, and fixing a crumbling wall. To marry the two design tastes, we started with the more modern elements of metal planters and softened the landscape with mass plantings of ornamental grasses and native sedge. These grasses act as a turf replacement that do not need to be mowed and require less regular watering. On each side of the yard we constructed new cedar fences to provide updated and additional privacy. In addition, we poured a new concrete wall to replace the existing retaining wall and play off the new modern vibe.

Revamping the pantry is a transformative project that elevates both form and function in the kitchen space. Introducing adjustable shelving and pull-out trays optimizes storage, making it easier to access and organize a variety of items. Customized storage solutions for spices, canned goods, and dry ingredients enhance efficiency and reduce clutter. Consideration of lighting, such as LED strips or motion-sensor lights, improves visibility and adds a modern touch. A fresh coat of paint or stylish wallpaper can breathe new life into the pantry, contributing to an overall aesthetic upgrade. Additionally, investing in a smart organization system, such as labeled bins or baskets, ensures everything has a designated place. Redoing the pantry is not just about practicality; it's an opportunity to create a well-organized, visually appealing space that enhances the overall kitchen experience.

Design ideas for a small contemporary drought-tolerant and full sun backyard concrete paver landscaping in San Francisco.

Nestled on the historic grounds of the original 1888 schoolhouse in Lafayette, Colorado, this early twentieth-century home underwent a transformative modern farmhouse renovation. Embracing sustainable design principles, it seamlessly blended contemporary design, comfort, and durability. The open floor plan enhances modern living, while energy-efficient upgrades reduce the carbon footprint and improve indoor air quality, fostering a resilient and eco-friendly home.

Description: Installation of Mechoshade motorized screen roller shades throughout this residence. This property is on a corner lot and therefore needs privacy from all 4 sides. The client installed a Control4 system and incorporated the window coverings into the project by way of the Mechoshade IQ motors and wireless zigbee cards. This installation also incorporated the new Mechoshade corner bracket system which stagers the roller shades into the corner, (one above the other) to reduce the light gaps down to less than 1”. Considering that the windows had only silicone between the glazing in the corners, this bracket was paramount in maintaining the best degree of privacy possible. A custom MDF pocket was created at the ceiling (approx. 10” deep) to house the shading system. Combined with a custom painted aluminum closure panel at the bottom of the shade pocket, the shades were barely visible thru a narrow slot at the back wall when they were in the opened position.

Matt Kocourek Photography
Transitional u-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor kitchen photo in Kansas City with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

Photographed by William Quarles. Designed by Jill Frey. Contractor RS Construction. Built by Robert Paige Cabinetry.
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized craftsman u-shaped eat-in kitchen idea in Charleston with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, green cabinets, granite countertops, gray backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Transform your family room effortlessly depending on whether you want to relax, play games, read, or watch TV together. Unclutter the coffee table and reduce confusion with the simplicity of a single remote the entire family can use to control everything: TV, music, streaming content, DVD player, lights, shades and temperature. Home entertainment equipment can be concealed so you only see and hear it when you want to and your family room keeps the sense of style you desire.

One Raven is a truely unique project that pushes the boundaries of urban density without losing heritage roots. Located in the heart of North Vancouver‘s up and coming moodyville neighbourhood, One Raven will be a beacon on E 3rd. With one of the last remaining heritage buildings on the front of the lot, the project consists of a NetZero high-performance infill duplex, each complete with its suite. This will add 4 new livable units in an infill laneway format with the heritage home complementing the site. The project is built to Level 5 of the BC Energy Step Code meaning it is already at the energy targets for all buildings in 2032, 13 years early! This spectacular and unique project was designed by the talented architect Tina Hubert at Design Studio 8. The passive house inspired townhouses and suites will be accessed via an internal courtyard bi-secting the lot in an east-west orientation parallel to the street. A circulation corridor oriented north-south will be accessed from the sidewalk at the existing stone retaining wall and concrete stair. The site design creates private open spaces yet also fosters connection to the semi-private realm of the inner courtyard. Each townhouse will have access to ground level patios, gardens, balconies and roof decks. The exterior walls are “super” insulated walls that are 12” or more thick with a focus on air-tight detailing. High performance triple pane windows are oriented southward to maximize solar gain in winter and rely on shading devices in the summer. All other windows are located to promote natural ventilation and to reduce energy losses. The highly air-tight building (0.93 ACH) utilizes heat recovery ventilation system to exhaust air and bring in fresh air. The building is designed to be compact with a reduced surface area. Maximizing on-site infiltration and rainwater collection will help manage storm water runoff. Ground-oriented landscape lighting and low planting along pathways and lot lines encourage visibility and overlook. The architecture of the building is uniquely modern and clearly establishes it‘s identity, through horizontal and vertical rectilinear forms, asymmetrical window placement, slim profile detailing, standing seam metal cladding, heritage coloured siding, and architectural panelized guardrails.

This Trellis was part of an edible landscaping project in Western Colorado. Features include full drip irrigation, emphasis on native and functional plants. Aaron Jerad

We had a several challenges to face with this project. Not only did we need to update a dated landscape to accommodate two seemingly different design tastes (modern & minimalistic vs natural english garden), we were tasked with improving the property’s drainage, improving the driveway access, reducing water usage and plant maintenance, and fixing a crumbling wall. To marry the two design tastes, we started with the more modern elements of metal planters and softened the landscape with mass plantings of ornamental grasses and native sedge. These grasses act as a turf replacement that do not need to be mowed and require less regular watering. On each side of the yard we constructed new cedar fences to provide updated and additional privacy. In addition, we poured a new concrete wall to replace the existing retaining wall and play off the new modern vibe.

Description: Installation of Mechoshade motorized screen roller shades throughout this residence. This property is on a corner lot and therefore needs privacy from all 4 sides. The client installed a Control4 system and incorporated the window coverings into the project by way of the Mechoshade IQ motors and wireless zigbee cards. This installation also incorporated the new Mechoshade corner bracket system which stagers the roller shades into the corner, (one above the other) to reduce the light gaps down to less than 1”. Considering that the windows had only silicone between the glazing in the corners, this bracket was paramount in maintaining the best degree of privacy possible. A custom MDF pocket was created at the ceiling (approx. 10” deep) to house the shading system. Combined with a custom painted aluminum closure panel at the bottom of the shade pocket, the shades were barely visible thru a narrow slot at the back wall when they were in the opened position.

One Raven is a truely unique project that pushes the boundaries of urban density without losing heritage roots. Located in the heart of North Vancouver‘s up and coming moodyville neighbourhood, One Raven will be a beacon on E 3rd. With one of the last remaining heritage buildings on the front of the lot, the project consists of a NetZero high-performance infill duplex, each complete with its suite. This will add 4 new livable units in an infill laneway format with the heritage home complementing the site. The project is built to Level 5 of the BC Energy Step Code meaning it is already at the energy targets for all buildings in 2032, 13 years early! This spectacular and unique project was designed by the talented architect Tina Hubert at Design Studio 8. The passive house inspired townhouses and suites will be accessed via an internal courtyard bi-secting the lot in an east-west orientation parallel to the street. A circulation corridor oriented north-south will be accessed from the sidewalk at the existing stone retaining wall and concrete stair. The site design creates private open spaces yet also fosters connection to the semi-private realm of the inner courtyard. Each townhouse will have access to ground level patios, gardens, balconies and roof decks. The exterior walls are “super” insulated walls that are 12” or more thick with a focus on air-tight detailing. High performance triple pane windows are oriented southward to maximize solar gain in winter and rely on shading devices in the summer. All other windows are located to promote natural ventilation and to reduce energy losses. The highly air-tight building (0.93 ACH) utilizes heat recovery ventilation system to exhaust air and bring in fresh air. The building is designed to be compact with a reduced surface area. Maximizing on-site infiltration and rainwater collection will help manage storm water runoff. Ground-oriented landscape lighting and low planting along pathways and lot lines encourage visibility and overlook. The architecture of the building is uniquely modern and clearly establishes it‘s identity, through horizontal and vertical rectilinear forms, asymmetrical window placement, slim profile detailing, standing seam metal cladding, heritage coloured siding, and architectural panelized guardrails.

This project is entitled 'Bringing Nature Home'; Where the Coyotes Run. While initially meeting with the client on a sunny afternoon a coyote ran across the lawn. This indicated good fortune was waiting. From a Feng Shui perspective...powerful, positive energy. An excerpt from the design concept is...Flowering ornamental grasses colorful perennials with large boulders will accent your new, native plant garden.