Another fun Crestview project! This young couple wanted a back yard that reflected their bohemian-eclectic style and could add additional privacy from the ever climbing construction around them. A place for “hanging out and drinking coffee or beer in the backyard.” But what was most exciting, was the air stream they had just purchased and were in the process of restoring. With the end goal of using it as a guest home for family and friends, we were challenged with creating a space that was cohesive and connected this new living space with the rest of the yard. In the front we had another quark to fix. The sidewalk from their front door to the street suddenly stopped 5 feet from the curb, making a less than inviting entry for guests. So, creating a new usable entryway with additional curb appeal was a top priority. We managed the entertainment space by using modern poured concrete pad’s as a focal. A poured concrete wall serves as a bench as well as creates a visual anchor for the patio area. To soften the hard materials, small plantings of succulents and ground cover were planted in the spaces between the pads. For a backdrop, a custom Cedar Plank wall and trellis combined to soften the vertical space and add plenty of privacy. The trellis is anchored by a Coral Vine to add interest. Cafe style lighting was strung across the area create a sense of intimacy. We also completed the fence transition, and eliminated the grass areas that were not being utilized to reduce the amount of water waste in the landscape, and replaced these areas with beneficial plantings for the wildlife. Overall, this landscape was completed with a cohesive Austin-friendly design in mind for these busy young professionals! Caleb Kerr - http://www.calebkerr.com

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN: Award of Excellence PROJECT: Hazelwood Neighborhood Center CLIENT: ACTION-Housing, Inc. ARCHITECTURE FIRM: Thoughtful Balance ENGINEERS: Iams Consulting, LLC; WBCM Engineering CONTRACTORS: Nelcon Construction PHOTOGRAPHER: Denmarsh Photography DESCRIPTION: This building is in the heart of Hazelwood’s main commercial area and has a deep history with the community. The ground level houses office space for local non-profit groups and the upper floor is the new home of the Hazelwood branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. This project allowed the library to double the size of its space, providing a place to gather and come together. The renovation used the Passive House Retrofit Standard, focusing on a well-insulated building envelope with controlled ventilation, optimized passive solar heating, and energy efficiency. JURY COMMENTS: The project demonstrates the potential in creative planning by increasing the useable size of an existing building and reducing the environmental impact at the same time. Metrics matter and this building made a point of demonstrating what the metrics of its sustainable design yielded.

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.

New Project in Yorba Linda,CA French Door Double Retractable Screen Retractable screens for French doors is the most popular application for a retractable screen. Let the fresh air in while keeping the pests out. When not in use the retractable screens disappear as not to block the view through the French doors when they are closed! • Colors available in White, Adobe, Brownstone, Desert Tan • Sturdy Milano pull bar • Cast metal color matching adjustable height handles • Superior gliding using low friction technology • Easy to install and operate • Speed reducer (brake) provides safety and controlled retraction • Recess and surface mount applications • Full length magnetic seal • Charcoal color 18x16 insect screen fabric (other optional fabrics available)

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.

The goal with this project was to create a functional kids’ bathroom for this family of five and the elegant master bath that their parents so deserve. The client was looking for classic, clean style but with unique details. In the kids’ bathroom, we did floor to ceiling shiplap on the walls and doors. We picked a textured porcelain for the floor tile to reduce slips! The master has herringbone Dolomite marble in two scales on the floor and shower floor, and we used the same Dolomite marble for the floor to ceiling feature wall. Both bathrooms feature custom vanities and modern polished chrome plumbing fixtures. The overall look is coastal, fresh and sophisticated.

Design Builders & Remodeling is a one stop shop operation. From the start, design solutions are strongly rooted in practical applications and experience. Project planning takes into account the realities of the construction process and mindful of your established budget. All the work is centralized in one firm reducing the chances of costly or time consuming surprises. A solid partnership with solid professionals to help you realize your dreams for a new or improved home. This classic Connecticut home was bought by a growing family. The house was in an ideal location but needed to be expanded. Design Builders & Remodeling almost doubled the square footage of the home. Creating a new sunny and spacious master bedroom, new guestroom, laundry room, garage, kids bathroom, expanded and renovated the kitchen, family room, and playroom. The upgrades and addition is seamlessly and thoughtfully integrated to the original footprint.

Expansive bathroom with luxurious fittings Freestanding tub glass enclosed shower and double vanity. Design Builders & Remodeling is a one stop shop operation. From the start, design solutions are strongly rooted in practical applications and experience. Project planning takes into account the realities of the construction process and mindful of your established budget. All the work is centralized in one firm reducing the chances of costly or time consuming surprises. A solid partnership with solid professionals to help you realize your dreams for a new or improved home.

The project consist in a renovation of a ex-commercial space characterized by only one big opening facing the street the goal was to create a little condo of 8 units, each one with view, light, aeration and privacy. The project is located in an industrial area, in the northern part of Playa del Carmen, on the ground level of a three storey building, in a space was previously a storage space and a carpentry. The challenge of this project was to find a plan that could fit all the apartments and satisfy all the basic needs of each one of the apartments. The area of the floor was only about 300m² and the internal height 5m. The only source of light was the front window that occupy almost all the front wall. On one side was possible to open some little windows and on the other two sides I had to find my way to do it as well, because those sides were in contact with other constructions or a different lot. Every unit has a mezzanine, that divides the living room and kitchen on the first floor and the bedroom and bathroom upstairs. Since the fan shape plan was choose as the best option, all the internal areas of the apartments doesn't correspond to a regular polygon. in order to solve the problematic of the reduced space every unit has a different design theme that fills this gap.

Join us as we take you behind the scenes of our latest project in collaboration with Eagle Seal Contracting Inc., one of New York City's most esteemed design and build companies. Our team at Centerlight, a leading architectural lighting solutions provider, delivered exceptional results with over 50 of our own RTS fixtures in this New York-based venture. ‍ With a focus on quality and innovation, our premade LED linear fixtures offer impressive lighting features, boasting a high color rendering index (CRI) of 96+. As a company with over a decade of experience in the commercial and residential building industry, we understand the needs of professionals like you, and that's why we strive to offer unbeatable solutions and service. ‍ When you work with us, you'll benefit from: 1. Direct access to our own lighting solutions, eliminating middlemen and ensuring the best prices for your projects. 2. Swift delivery with most products ready to ship from our Los Angeles warehouse, reducing delays and keeping your timeline on track. 3. Professional lighting design services, including comprehensive calculations, to ensure optimal illumination and ambiance in your spaces. Don't just take our word for it. Let's hear directly from Eagle Seal Contracting Inc., as they share their experience working with us on this remarkable project.

Inspiration for a rustic landscaping in Austin.

At Green Home Systems, we specialize in providing top quality solar solutions for residential and commercial customers throughout Southern California. We recently had the pleasure of working on a Panasonic & Enphase Solar Install project for one of our clients in Pico Rivera, CA - Steven T. This 6.84 kW system was installed on a flat roof and included a SolarEdge inverter. Our expert installation team worked diligently to complete the project within just a couple weeks - and we delivered on-time results that our client was extremely satisfied with. Steven T. chose Green Home Systems because of our craftsmanship and competitive financing options. After completion, the results were amazing! Not only did Steven increase the value of his home, but he also was able to reduce his carbon footprint while enjoying the benefits of backup power for his home. When it comes to solar installations, you need experts that you can trust - and that's exactly what you'll find at Green Home Systems. Our team is experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service every step of the way. We make sure all projects are completed on-time and within budget so that you can rest easy knowing your investment is in good hands. At Green Home Systems, we understand how important it is to take care of our environment and reduce our carbon footprint whenever possible. That's why we strive to provide high quality solar solutions that are both affordable and reliable. We take great pride in helping our clients save money while making smart decisions for the planet. If you're looking for trusted professionals who can provide top notch solar solutions in Pico Rivera or any other city throughout Southern California, look no further than Green Home Systems! Contact us today at (888) 721-7374 or visit us online at https://greenhomesystems.com to learn more about how we can help you save money while doing your part for the environment!

The home office has evolved into an indispensable space that seamlessly blends productivity and comfort. Tailored to the demands of remote work or personal projects, a well-designed home office often features ergonomic furniture, ample storage, and efficient technology integration. Thoughtful placement of desks and chairs enhances workflow, while strategic lighting promotes focus and reduces eye strain. The home office is not only a functional workspace but also an expression of individual style, with personalized decor and organizational elements contributing to a conducive and inspiring atmosphere. As the boundary between work and home blurs, the home office emerges as a versatile sanctuary that fosters concentration, creativity, and a harmonious work-life balance.

The clients for this small bathroom project are passionate art enthusiasts and asked the architects to create a space based on the work of one of their favorite abstract painters, Piet Mondrian. Mondrian was a Dutch artist associated with the De Stijl movement which reduced designs down to basic rectilinear forms and primary colors within a grid. Alloy used floor to ceiling recycled glass tiles to re-interpret Mondrian's compositions, using blocks of color in a white grid of tile to delineate space and the functions within the small room. A red block of color is recessed and becomes a niche, a blue block is a shower seat, a yellow rectangle connects shower fixtures with the drain. The bathroom also has many aging-in-place design components which were a priority for the clients. There is a zero clearance entrance to the shower. We widened the doorway for greater accessibility and installed a pocket door to save space. ADA compliant grab bars were located to compliment the tile composition. Andrea Hubbell Photography

Katavia Charcoal Oak 2MM 6 in. x 48 in. Luxury Vinyl Tile features a backdrop of Grays and greiges, accented by subtle graining and knots for an authentic wood look in a low maintenance vinyl plank. This innovative glue-down vinyl flooring has a 6 MIL wear layer, is backed by warranty, and it’s suitable for all grade-levels. You can feel confident using it throughout your home—even in the basement. Supremely durable and gorgeous, Katavia Charcoal Oak vinyl tile flooring is perfect for busy families who don’t want to sacrifice style for practicality. Coordinating vinyl flooring trim pieces including end caps, stair noses, reducers, and T-molding are available to give your residential or light-commercial indoor LVT project a professional, seamless finish.

Renovating a home offers a multitude of benefits. Not only does it add value to your property, but it also provides an opportunity to enhance the energy efficiency of your home, ultimately reducing maintenance and utility costs in the long run. We understand the importance of preserving and repurposing spaces. That’s why we approach every renovation project with meticulous attention to detail, craftsmanship, and a keen eye for design. Our goal is to create a seamless blend of the old and the new, ensuring that the final result reflects your unique vision and style.

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.

Thomas Giordano
Example of a mid-sized trendy single-wall open concept kitchen design in Philadelphia with a peninsula

Timber frame homes offer unique challenges during a remodel. What often makes them beautiful and attractive to most homeowners, also makes them challenging for space requirements. Context: The lovely couple that owned this home were struggling with some interesting floor plan challenges that just didn't work for their family. The loved the beautiful timbers and woodwork of their home, but the dramatically sloping ceilings on the second floor, particularly in the bathroom, just didn't work for this 1 1/2 bath home. Needing to use the skylight to approach the toilet was a less then ideal scenario. Although the bathroom footprint was more then adequate, the sloped ceiling only made half of the space useable. Check out the Before/After post on our blog to see the photos of the house pre-renovation. As much as they loved all the wood features in their home, another challenge they had was light. The wood ceiling made everything inside the house darker, even with a fantastic array of south facing windows, there were spaces in the home that felt dark and small. When they contacted us they wanted to know how could they make their brighter and more inviting, were there solutions to the 2nd floor sloped ceiling issues, and if they were going to do all of this work, how could they make their home more comfortable and efficient. A nagging water leak in the upstairs bathroom spurred them into action and here is how we solved their dilemma. Conclusion: First, we added a little dormer to the rear of the house so we could get full headroom in nearly all of the upstairs bathroom! Then we decided to extend that dormer one more timber bay over to create a walk in closet with natural light and plenty of space. Since we were contemplating energy efficiency, we resolved a nagging issue that is present in a lot of timber frame construction, air tightness. Commonly found in timber frame construction, fiberglass insulation is installed in the rafter bays and board ceilings are installed over top. Unfortunately, board ceilings are anything but air tight, and fiberglass insulation needs to be in an airtight cavity for maximum effectiveness. So we were able to solve two issues at the same time for this homeowner. We removed the board ceiling and fiberglass insulation, we dense packed the rafter bays with cellulose insulation, and installed sheetrock in place of the boards. The boards were salvaged for re-use by the homeowner, and the space and light quality was dramatically improved. Some may think that losing the board ceiling took something away from the space, but what you'll see in the pictures is that it highly accentuates the heavy timbers and really makes them stand out in a beautiful way. Now with this added airtightness, better insulation, and brighter space, the homeowner hardly runs their wood stove, and it's so quiet in the space, an added bonus from changing the insulation. It became necessary to also add a sheetrock ceiling to the living room to hide the plumbing from the new bathroom layout above. Changing this ceiling gave the homeowner some real quality lighting that was lacking in the living room before. The brighter ceiling and new lighting layout completely transforms the living room into a space you want to hang out, even though the layout didn't change at all. When the homeowner saw the finished spaces she said "I can't believe this is my house, I want to live in this house" Energy Efficiency: I touched a little on the efficiency above, but like all projects done with Mottram Architecture, we always want to leave you with a little extra. Timber frame construction with board ceilings and fiberglass insulation are notoriously leaky! If you want to know what we think about fiberglass insulation, check our our blog post on Why Fiberglass Insulation Sucks. By installing cellulose insulation and covering it with sheetrock we were able to greatly reduce the heat flowing out of this home. It not only improves cashflow it improves the comfort level in the space. Who wants to sit in their living room and feel a draft? Let us remind you, we are not saying cellulose insulation is an air barrier, we use the sheetrock to help with that, but it does significantly reduce the air flow over fiberglass insulation. And when we reduce the airflow, we reduce the heat flow. And when we reduce the heat flow, we reduce the need to re-heat that drafty air from outside. When it comes to energy efficiency the first and best place to start is air infiltration. We greatly reduced the air infiltration with the new insulation, but we also added a hat and warm boots. What I mean by that is, we improved the insulation in the roof, and we installed insulation in the basement. Maybe it's a silly analogy, but when you think about keeping warm, we always start with the hat and boots! With sustainability in mind, the next project will be to add a deck to the front of this house with rain catchment barrels from the metal roof. They are planning to plant a garden in the spring and the rain catchment system will help to irrigate the new garden. Builder: East Shore Builders Photographer: Michael Eric Berube