Final Sale! Price reduced below wholesale. First come, first served. While stocks last! USUALLY IN STOCK. Usually leaves our warehouse within 3-7 business days. Free shipping and assembly within New York City. Enter Coupon code 'NYC' on checkout. Made in Italy by Gruppo Spar Holding Modern Italian Wall Unit Closeout Composition Avio A by Spar. This stylish wall unit composition will be an excellent design solution for any modern living room. The entertainment center provides an abundance of storage space, both hidden and exposed, to aid with the organization of all your belongings. Its wide media area allows to place a modern large TV with all possible media remote control devises. Three shelves are great for keeping books, CDs, photos, or other decorative exhibits. The three-door hanging cabinet complements the design of this wall unit composition, featuring concave and convex shape that adds elegance and uniqueness to the interior. The wall unit is shown in Wenge finish and High Gloss Lilac lacquer. MATERIAL/CONSTRUCTION: Structure: Made with particle board of wood, covered with E1 melamine finishes or high gloss lacquer Drawers: Made with panels of wood particles in E1-coated finish PVC beech. Metal runners with fine race to fall The starting price is for the Wall Unit Composition Avio A as shown in the main picture. Dimensions: Wall Unit Composition: W106.3" x D22.8" x H78" Base Cabinet (Lilac): W59" x D22.8" x H13.7" Base Cabinet (Wenge): W47.2" x D22.8" x H7.8"

ZeroEnergy Design (ZED) created this modern home for a progressive family in the desirable community of Lexington. Thoughtful Land Connection. The residence is carefully sited on the infill lot so as to create privacy from the road and neighbors, while cultivating a side yard that captures the southern sun. The terraced grade rises to meet the house, allowing for it to maintain a structured connection with the ground while also sitting above the high water table. The elevated outdoor living space maintains a strong connection with the indoor living space, while the stepped edge ties it back to the true ground plane. Siting and outdoor connections were completed by ZED in collaboration with landscape designer Soren Deniord Design Studio. Exterior Finishes and Solar. The exterior finish materials include a palette of shiplapped wood siding, through-colored fiber cement panels and stucco. A rooftop parapet hides the solar panels above, while a gutter and site drainage system directs rainwater into an irrigation cistern and dry wells that recharge the groundwater. Cooking, Dining, Living. Inside, the kitchen, fabricated by Henrybuilt, is located between the indoor and outdoor dining areas. The expansive south-facing sliding door opens to seamlessly connect the spaces, using a retractable awning to provide shade during the summer while still admitting the warming winter sun. The indoor living space continues from the dining areas across to the sunken living area, with a view that returns again to the outside through the corner wall of glass. Accessible Guest Suite. The design of the first level guest suite provides for both aging in place and guests who regularly visit for extended stays. The patio off the north side of the house affords guests their own private outdoor space, and privacy from the neighbor. Similarly, the second level master suite opens to an outdoor private roof deck. Light and Access. The wide open interior stair with a glass panel rail leads from the top level down to the well insulated basement. The design of the basement, used as an away/play space, addresses the need for both natural light and easy access. In addition to the open stairwell, light is admitted to the north side of the area with a high performance, Passive House (PHI) certified skylight, covering a six by sixteen foot area. On the south side, a unique roof hatch set flush with the deck opens to reveal a glass door at the base of the stairwell which provides additional light and access from the deck above down to the play space. Energy. Energy consumption is reduced by the high performance building envelope, high efficiency mechanical systems, and then offset with renewable energy. All windows and doors are made of high performance triple paned glass with thermally broken aluminum frames. The exterior wall assembly employs dense pack cellulose in the stud cavity, a continuous air barrier, and four inches exterior rigid foam insulation. The 10kW rooftop solar electric system provides clean energy production. The final air leakage testing yielded 0.6 ACH 50 - an extremely air tight house, a testament to the well-designed details, progress testing and quality construction. When compared to a new house built to code requirements, this home consumes only 19% of the energy. Architecture & Energy Consulting: ZeroEnergy Design Landscape Design: Soren Deniord Design Paintings: Bernd Haussmann Studio Photos: Eric Roth Photography

Located in the Catskill Mountains of Upstate New York, this stunning A-frame Cabin is the perfect retreat from busy city life. With 2,072 total square feet, the cabin has two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, two living spaces, a kitchen, an office, a laundry room, and a mudroom. This modern timber frame is sleek and stunning inside and out. The exterior is bold, with a striking contrast between the black metal roof and the warm tones of Douglas Fir wood siding. Large windows strategically placed on each side of the home highlight the surrounding landscape's beauty. Open the front door, and it's easy to imagine stepping into this cabin to unplug and reset. Upon entering the space, the classic white and natural wood combination gives a fresh, clean, calming vibe. The first floor features an open living space with a massive bank of windows letting natural light flood the room. The concealed (or hidden) kitchen design creates a clutter-free look. Right off the kitchen are sliding doors where you can step outside and relax on the ground-level deck. You'll find the primary bedroom and bath near the back of the home. The bathroom has a freestanding tub where you can truly soak in the beautiful views of the forest. Climb the floating stairs to the loft, passing beneath the web pendant light, and you'll find a guest bedroom on one side and additional living space to relax or create on the other. The desk space with a large lookout window is the perfect setting to spark creativity. A frameless glass railing in the loft is a unique touch that creates a great sense of spaciousness throughout the home. This A-Frame cabin is the perfect example of a minimalist aesthetic that allows nature to be the focal design element. The timber's natural warmth and texture play a key role in achieving biophilic design. Biophilic design is a philosophy and architectural practice that connects people with nature in built environments. It incorporates natural elements into spaces to improve health and well-being. Shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive performance, incorporating wood is an important aspect to consider when designing your home. The structure type of this home is a timber frame. Timber frame construction relies on mortise and tenon (or wood-to-wood) joinery to bring everything together aesthetically and structurally. This traditional method is known for longevity and creates a strong and attractive space.

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood. INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site. EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot. THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place. HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde. YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting. ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements. RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage. OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet. ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings Eric Roth Photography - Photography

We were asked by a house builder to build a steel staircase as the centrepiece for their new show home in Auckland. Although they had already decided on the central mono-stringer style staircase (also known as a floating staircase), with solid oak treads and glass balustrades, when we met with them we also made some suggestions. This was in order to help nest the stairs in their desired location, which included having to change the layout to avoid clashing with the existing structure. The stairs lead from a reception area up to a bedroom, so one of our first suggestions, was to have the glass balustrade on the side of the staircase finishing, and finish at the underside of the ground-floor ceiling, and then building an independent balustrade in the bedroom. The intention behind this was to give some separation between the living and sleeping areas, whilst maximising the full width of the opening for the stairs. Additionally, this also helps hide the staircase from inside the bedroom, as you don’t see the balustrade coming up from the floor below. We also recommended the glass on the first floor was face fixed directly to the boundary beam, and the fixings covered with a painted fascia panel. This was in order to avoid using a large floor fixed glazing channel or reduce the opening width with stand-off pin fixings.

Rolling Shutters are the ultimate solution when you want to protect what’s behind your windows and doors. With Rolling Shutters, enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home has a sturdy layer of hurricane protection and storm protection. Rolling shutters shield against wind-blown debris, sand blasting and water penetration. Strong, secure, and durable, our Rolling Hurricane Shutters are proven to reduce energy and maintenance costs while making your home more comfortable to live in. Hurricane Shutters Hurricane Shutters are the premier protection against snow and ice storms, driving rain, high winds, and flying debris. We have huge selection of Hurricane Protection products for all types of applications. We specialize in new construction, retrofit projects and custom applications designed around more complex installations. Hurricane Shutters protect your windows and doors from water penetration and breakage during hurricanes and Nor’easters bringing you comfort and protection. Even when you are not physically at the location of the storm, rolling shutters can offer you peace of mind. Homes and businesses not equipped with rolling shutters may experience glass breakage and door failures during high winds. Ultimately, those openings in the structure’s envelope can cause complete devastation to the home or business. Once the air pressure enters a building, no matter the type of construction, the likelihood of other windows and doors failing rises. If the pressure grows beyond a certain point, walls and and roof components begin to fail. Security Shutters Security Shutters are one of the best ways to discourage intruders from attempting to enter your home or business. This deterrent measure is just where rolling shutters start. While in the down position, rolling shutters can be locked in place by a motor, a gear, a keyed switch or by a separate locking device. Rolling Shutters have been used as security shutters all over the world for decades with incredible success. Sometimes labeled as metal shutters and metal security shutters, they all have subtle differences, and the differences can’t be seen with the rolling shutter in the down position. Security Shutters typically have end-retention pins that lock into the guide rails from the top. These pins are located throughout the entire curtain and are protected from manipulation while the curtain is in the close position. Storm Shutters Storm Shutters are the broad category of Storm Protection products. Of course, they come in all types of sizes, features and functionality. We have a full line of rolling shutters, hinged storm shutters and storm panels for you to to explore on our website or we would love for you to swing by one of our showrooms to see live demo models. Storm Shutters are specifically engineered and designed for high hinds, flying debris protection and ultimately given a rating for Hurricane Protection. A little known fact: The most damaging type of wind value is not the force of the wind blowing directly on your home. This force is called positive pressure, and typically, many believe this is the strongest force against their home or business. Believe it or not, the negative pressure, or, the air passing by your windows and doors, has far greater power. Many low-grade storm shutters and hurricane protection products fail under this pressure. Solar Shutters Solar Shutters have a double wall construction and filled with a specialized polyurethane foam designed to increase R-factor and deflect solar penetration. Many rolling shutters can perform this function, but not all are created equal. The energy efficiency of exterior rolling shutters is up to 95% more effective than interior solar shades. Solar Shutters have many unique and positive “side effects” from their dense foam-filled curtain profile. Many homeowners have taken advantage of energy savings by using these types of rolling shutters in both the summer and winter seasons. Reducing heating and air conditioning expenses throughout the entire year is not always our first thought, but many home and business owners have expressed massive savings. Not only do they block up to 90% of heat gain and loss, they also provide incredible noise control opportunities. Privacy Shutters Privacy Shutters are a great way to close of areas of your home or business from others. Some rolling shutters are equipped with perforations allowing ambient light to pass through when needed. Privacy Shutters have many uses and are creatively used throughout the world in homes and businesses for all kinds of reasons. Close off food preparation areas, work shops, stock rooms, gun safes, closets, liquor cabinets and bars. Some business owners use rolling shutters to close off the outside world after working hours, to protect the last few employees as they finish money counts, paperwork, and prepare bank deposits. If you have any questions or need additional information, our Product Specialists are available 800-522-1599

Anchored by the homeowner’s 42-foot-long painting, the interiors of this Palm Springs residence were designed to showcase the owner’s art collection, and create functional spaces for daily living that can be easily adapted for large social gatherings. Referencing the environment and architecture in both form and material, the finishes and custom furnishings bring the interior to life. Alluding to the roofs that suspend over the building, the sofas seem to hover above the carpets while the knife-edge table top appears to float above a metal base. Bleached and cerused wood mimic the “desert effect” that would naturally occur in this environment, while the textiles on the sofa are the same shade as the rocks of the landscape. Monolithic concrete floors connect all of the spaces while concealing mechanical systems, and stone thresholds signal vertical level changes and exterior transitions. Large wall masses provide the optimal backdrop for the homeowner’s oversized art. The wall structures ground the interior, while the opposing expanses of glass frame the desert views. The location and use of operable doors and windows allows the house to naturally ventilate, reducing cooling loads. The furnishings create spaces in an architectural fashion. Designed and fabricated for flexibility, the pieces easily accommodate the owners’ large social gatherings. The dining table can be split into two and the sofas can be pushed out along the walls, opening the center of the space to entertain. The design of the interior spaces and furnishings seamlessly integrates the setting, architecture, artwork and spaces into a cohesive whole.

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Eric Roth Photo

Oasis in the Desert You can find a whole lot of fun ready for the kids in this fun contemporary play-yard in the dessert. Theme: The overall theme of the play-yard is a blend of creative and active outdoor play that blends with the contemporary styling of this beautiful home. Focus: The overall focus for the design of this amazing play-yard was to provide this family with an outdoor space that would foster an active and creative playtime for their children of various ages. The visual focus of this space is the 15-foot tree placed in the middle of the turf yard. This fantastic structure beacons the children to climb the mini stumps and enjoy the slide or swing happily from the branches all the while creating a touch of whimsical nature not typically found in the desert. Surrounding the tree the play-yard offers an array of activities for these lucky children from the chalkboard walls to create amazing pictures to the custom ball wall to practice their skills, the custom myWall system provides endless options for the kids and parents to keep the space exciting and new. Rock holds easily clip into the wall offering ever changing climbing routes, custom water toys and games can also be adapted to the wall to fit the fun of the day. Storage: The myWall system offers various storage options including shelving, closed cases or hanging baskets all of which can be moved to alternate locations on the wall as the homeowners want to customize the play-yard. Growth: The myWall system is built to grow with the users whether it is with changing taste, updating design or growing children, all the accessories can be moved or replaced while leaving the main frame in place. The materials used throughout the space were chosen for their durability and ability to withstand the harsh conditions for many years. The tree also includes 3 levels of swings offering children of varied ages the chance to swing from the branches. Safety: Safety is of critical concern with any play-yard and a space in the harsh conditions of the desert presented specific concerns which were addressed with light colored materials to reflect the sun and reduce heat buildup and stainless steel hardware was used to avoid rusting. The myWall accessories all use a locking mechanism which allows for easy adjustments but also securely locks the pieces into place once set. The flooring in the treehouse was also textured to eliminate skidding.

Anchored by the homeowner’s 42-foot-long painting, the interiors of this Palm Springs residence were designed to showcase the owner’s art collection, and create functional spaces for daily living that can be easily adapted for large social gatherings. Referencing the environment and architecture in both form and material, the finishes and custom furnishings bring the interior to life. Alluding to the roofs that suspend over the building, the sofas seem to hover above the carpets while the knife-edge table top appears to float above a metal base. Bleached and cerused wood mimic the “desert effect” that would naturally occur in this environment, while the textiles on the sofa are the same shade as the rocks of the landscape. Monolithic concrete floors connect all of the spaces while concealing mechanical systems, and stone thresholds signal vertical level changes and exterior transitions. Large wall masses provide the optimal backdrop for the homeowner’s oversized art. The wall structures ground the interior, while the opposing expanses of glass frame the desert views. The location and use of operable doors and windows allows the house to naturally ventilate, reducing cooling loads. The furnishings create spaces in an architectural fashion. Designed and fabricated for flexibility, the pieces easily accommodate the owners’ large social gatherings. The dining table can be split into two and the sofas can be pushed out along the walls, opening the center of the space to entertain. The design of the interior spaces and furnishings seamlessly integrates the setting, architecture, artwork and spaces into a cohesive whole.

We were asked by a house builder to build a steel staircase as the centrepiece for their new show home in Auckland. Although they had already decided on the central mono-stringer style staircase (also known as a floating staircase), with solid oak treads and glass balustrades, when we met with them we also made some suggestions. This was in order to help nest the stairs in their desired location, which included having to change the layout to avoid clashing with the existing structure. The stairs lead from a reception area up to a bedroom, so one of our first suggestions, was to have the glass balustrade on the side of the staircase finishing, and finish at the underside of the ground-floor ceiling, and then building an independent balustrade in the bedroom. The intention behind this was to give some separation between the living and sleeping areas, whilst maximising the full width of the opening for the stairs. Additionally, this also helps hide the staircase from inside the bedroom, as you don’t see the balustrade coming up from the floor below. We also recommended the glass on the first floor was face fixed directly to the boundary beam, and the fixings covered with a painted fascia panel. This was in order to avoid using a large floor fixed glazing channel or reduce the opening width with stand-off pin fixings.

Every design decision for this Caribbean beach residence was guided by the desire to maximize the views of the property’s breathtaking natural surroundings. To connect the spaces and reveal the views from every vantage point, the team reconfigured the layout to create vistas, and installed window film to reduce solar heat gain. These modifications increased efficiencies, reused 90% of the interior envelope and did not impact the exterior structure of the building. In addition to providing incredible views, opening up the plan allows cross ventilation, maximizing the use of ocean breezes to cool the interior. The result is an effortless flow and maximization of space. Throughout the interior, dark materials express the concept of respite in the shade, and emphasize the sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. Millwork crafted by local artisans from local materials establishes hierarchy – providing a clear understanding of the layout – and filters light to create privacy and drama. Screens help define the spaces and create suspense. Varying screen opacities serve specific functions: nearly opaque screens build suspense, translucent screens provide privacy, and reflective screens – as seen in the kitchen ceiling – create mystery in the core where light and views are challenged. Referencing the seaside location, the baseboards create a sense of being in a deep shallow. The 16” tall baseboards create a pool effect, engaging the walls with Cradle to Cradle certified Mosa tile flooring. The irregular height also conceals power and data cabling. The resulting space is a contemporary oasis that offers a high-level of comfort and functionality. Anne Rausch Photography

We were asked by a house builder to build a steel staircase as the centrepiece for their new show home in Auckland. Although they had already decided on the central mono-stringer style staircase (also known as a floating staircase), with solid oak treads and glass balustrades, when we met with them we also made some suggestions. This was in order to help nest the stairs in their desired location, which included having to change the layout to avoid clashing with the existing structure. The stairs lead from a reception area up to a bedroom, so one of our first suggestions, was to have the glass balustrade on the side of the staircase finishing, and finish at the underside of the ground-floor ceiling, and then building an independent balustrade in the bedroom. The intention behind this was to give some separation between the living and sleeping areas, whilst maximising the full width of the opening for the stairs. Additionally, this also helps hide the staircase from inside the bedroom, as you don’t see the balustrade coming up from the floor below. We also recommended the glass on the first floor was face fixed directly to the boundary beam, and the fixings covered with a painted fascia panel. This was in order to avoid using a large floor fixed glazing channel or reduce the opening width with stand-off pin fixings.

Renovating a home can completely transform the way a space looks, feels, and functions, but successful improvements require thoughtful planning rather than rushing into expensive changes. These renovation tips and tricks house ideas can help homeowners organize projects, control costs, select practical materials, and create rooms that remain useful for years. Start by identifying what genuinely needs improvement, such as outdated finishes, poor lighting, inefficient storage, damaged surfaces, or an inconvenient layout. Create a realistic budget that includes materials, labor, permits where applicable, and a contingency amount for unexpected issues. Taking measurements, collecting inspiration, and deciding priorities before work begins can prevent unnecessary purchases and make the renovation process much easier to manage.
One of the most useful renovation tips and tricks house projects can benefit from is improving the layout before focusing on decoration. A beautiful room will still feel inconvenient if furniture blocks walkways or storage is insufficient. Consider how people actually use each space and whether doors, windows, lighting, electrical outlets, and storage are positioned effectively. In kitchens, for example, practical work zones and accessible storage can make everyday tasks easier. In bedrooms and living rooms, built-in shelving, multifunctional furniture, and organized storage can reduce clutter without making the space feel crowded. Whenever possible, repair or improve the existing structure before replacing everything, because thoughtful upgrades can deliver significant results without creating unnecessary renovation costs.
Choosing materials carefully is another important part of renovation tips and tricks house planning. Look beyond appearance and consider durability, maintenance, safety, and suitability for the room. High-moisture areas require materials that can handle regular exposure to water, while frequently used floors and work surfaces should be selected for durability. Neutral foundations can also provide flexibility because wall colors, textiles, artwork, and accessories can be changed later without another major renovation. Lighting deserves equal attention: combine general illumination with task and accent lighting to make rooms more functional and visually comfortable. Energy-efficient lighting, improved insulation, weather sealing, and efficient fixtures may also contribute to better long-term household performance.
Before beginning major work, divide the project into manageable stages. A useful approach is to complete structural or repair work first, followed by electrical or plumbing updates when necessary, then walls, flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, and finally decorative details. This order can reduce the chance of damaging newly finished surfaces. Keep a record of measurements, product specifications, receipts, and important project decisions so replacements or future repairs are easier. For specialized work involving structural changes, electrical systems, plumbing, gas, or other regulated areas, consult appropriately qualified professionals and follow local requirements. Among the most practical renovation tips and tricks house owners can follow is to avoid changing too many things simultaneously; completing priority areas systematically makes budgets, timelines, and quality easier to control.
Finally, focus on improvements that combine appearance with everyday usefulness. Fresh paint, updated hardware, better organization, improved lighting, refreshed flooring, and carefully selected fixtures can make a noticeable difference without requiring a complete transformation. Outdoor areas can also benefit from simple maintenance, improved lighting, seating, planting, or repaired surfaces that extend the usable living space. Before declaring the project finished, inspect each room for functionality, storage, lighting, ventilation, safety, and finishing quality. The best renovation tips and tricks house approach is not necessarily about spending more it is about making informed choices that solve real problems and create a home that feels comfortable, practical, and personal.

We were asked by a house builder to build a steel staircase as the centrepiece for their new show home in Auckland. Although they had already decided on the central mono-stringer style staircase (also known as a floating staircase), with solid oak treads and glass balustrades, when we met with them we also made some suggestions. This was in order to help nest the stairs in their desired location, which included having to change the layout to avoid clashing with the existing structure. The stairs lead from a reception area up to a bedroom, so one of our first suggestions, was to have the glass balustrade on the side of the staircase finishing, and finish at the underside of the ground-floor ceiling, and then building an independent balustrade in the bedroom. The intention behind this was to give some separation between the living and sleeping areas, whilst maximising the full width of the opening for the stairs. Additionally, this also helps hide the staircase from inside the bedroom, as you don’t see the balustrade coming up from the floor below. We also recommended the glass on the first floor was face fixed directly to the boundary beam, and the fixings covered with a painted fascia panel. This was in order to avoid using a large floor fixed glazing channel or reduce the opening width with stand-off pin fixings.

Beez Kneez Pleez is an ceramic sculpture approximately 8 to 10-feet high by 3-feet in diameter. The piece has grown into a concrete art concept after I participated as part of an unplanned group, called "The Bee Swarm" in the Marche du Nain Rouge parade in Detroit. Visually noticing the decline of the honey bee in addition to being fascinated with the structure of the bee itself, I've begun a love for all the bee represents: hard work, happiness, warm sun, clover, industriousness and flowers. The use of carved and stacked honeycomb cells, fun, furry colors, and whimsical characterizations present the underlying seriousness and interconnectivity of this environmental issue, with a more lighthearted approach. This sculpture is a nod to the bee and the imperative role they play in the delicate balance of survival. The bee reminds us to leave that dandelion, violet, reduce pesticide use and preserve habitat. A totem of ceramic bees, leaves, flowers, corn, butterflies, frogs, rabbits, extruded hexagons, and perhaps a few other surprises arranged along an 10-foot steel pole. The pole will thread into a sturdy base via a threaded rod. Weight should not exceed 250 hundred pounds. The use of celadon glazes will highlight the intricate carving on the bees, honeycomb and other items which are nestled, hung with manilla rope or stick mounted along the length of the totem. The stabile and it's stoneware components is suited to indoor or outdoor areas. Created for ArtPrize 10 in 2018: Venue: Grand Rapids Public Museum. Permanently installed at Central Insurance Company Headquarters, Van Wert, Ohio

We were asked by a house builder to build a steel staircase as the centrepiece for their new show home in Auckland. Although they had already decided on the central mono-stringer style staircase (also known as a floating staircase), with solid oak treads and glass balustrades, when we met with them we also made some suggestions. This was in order to help nest the stairs in their desired location, which included having to change the layout to avoid clashing with the existing structure. The stairs lead from a reception area up to a bedroom, so one of our first suggestions, was to have the glass balustrade on the side of the staircase finishing, and finish at the underside of the ground-floor ceiling, and then building an independent balustrade in the bedroom. The intention behind this was to give some separation between the living and sleeping areas, whilst maximising the full width of the opening for the stairs. Additionally, this also helps hide the staircase from inside the bedroom, as you don’t see the balustrade coming up from the floor below. We also recommended the glass on the first floor was face fixed directly to the boundary beam, and the fixings covered with a painted fascia panel. This was in order to avoid using a large floor fixed glazing channel or reduce the opening width with stand-off pin fixings.

We were asked by a house builder to build a steel staircase as the centrepiece for their new show home in Auckland. Although they had already decided on the central mono-stringer style staircase (also known as a floating staircase), with solid oak treads and glass balustrades, when we met with them we also made some suggestions. This was in order to help nest the stairs in their desired location, which included having to change the layout to avoid clashing with the existing structure. The stairs lead from a reception area up to a bedroom, so one of our first suggestions, was to have the glass balustrade on the side of the staircase finishing, and finish at the underside of the ground-floor ceiling, and then building an independent balustrade in the bedroom. The intention behind this was to give some separation between the living and sleeping areas, whilst maximising the full width of the opening for the stairs. Additionally, this also helps hide the staircase from inside the bedroom, as you don’t see the balustrade coming up from the floor below. We also recommended the glass on the first floor was face fixed directly to the boundary beam, and the fixings covered with a painted fascia panel. This was in order to avoid using a large floor fixed glazing channel or reduce the opening width with stand-off pin fixings.

We were asked by a house builder to build a steel staircase as the centrepiece for their new show home in Auckland. Although they had already decided on the central mono-stringer style staircase (also known as a floating staircase), with solid oak treads and glass balustrades, when we met with them we also made some suggestions. This was in order to help nest the stairs in their desired location, which included having to change the layout to avoid clashing with the existing structure. The stairs lead from a reception area up to a bedroom, so one of our first suggestions, was to have the glass balustrade on the side of the staircase finishing, and finish at the underside of the ground-floor ceiling, and then building an independent balustrade in the bedroom. The intention behind this was to give some separation between the living and sleeping areas, whilst maximising the full width of the opening for the stairs. Additionally, this also helps hide the staircase from inside the bedroom, as you don’t see the balustrade coming up from the floor below. We also recommended the glass on the first floor was face fixed directly to the boundary beam, and the fixings covered with a painted fascia panel. This was in order to avoid using a large floor fixed glazing channel or reduce the opening width with stand-off pin fixings.