Search results for "Regularly maintained" in Home Design Ideas

Inspiration for a 1960s open concept beige floor, exposed beam, vaulted ceiling and wood ceiling living room remodel in Charlotte with green walls

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
This family is very involved with their church and hosts community events weekly; so the need to access the kitchen, seating areas, dining and entryways with 100+ guests present was imperative. This prompted us and the homeowner to create extra square footage around these amenities. The kitchen also received the double island treatment. Allowing guests to be hosted at one of the larger islands (capable of seating 5-6) while hors d'oeuvres and refreshments can be prepared on the smaller more centrally located island, helped these happy hosts to staff and plan events accordingly. Placement of these rooms relative to each other in the floor plan was also key to keeping all of the excitement happening in one place, making regular events easy to monitor, easy to maintain and relatively easy to clean-up. Some other important features that made this house a party-palace were a hidden butler's pantry, multiple wetbars and prep spaces, sectional seating inside and out, and double dining nooks (formal and informal).
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!
Find the right local pro for your project

These traditional closet doors feature smaller, fixed louvers in the top and colonial raised panels in the bottom and are custom sized to fit your openings.
To receive a quote on our Fixed Louver over Raised Panel doors follow the "Visit Store" link: below.

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
This family is very involved with their church and hosts community events weekly; so the need to access the kitchen, seating areas, dining and entryways with 100+ guests present was imperative. This prompted us and the homeowner to create extra square footage around these amenities. The kitchen also received the double island treatment. Allowing guests to be hosted at one of the larger islands (capable of seating 5-6) while hors d'oeuvres and refreshments can be prepared on the smaller more centrally located island, helped these happy hosts to staff and plan events accordingly. Placement of these rooms relative to each other in the floor plan was also key to keeping all of the excitement happening in one place, making regular events easy to monitor, easy to maintain and relatively easy to clean-up. Some other important features that made this house a party-palace were a hidden butler's pantry, multiple wetbars and prep spaces, sectional seating inside and out, and double dining nooks (formal and informal).
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
This family is very involved with their church and hosts community events weekly; so the need to access the kitchen, seating areas, dining and entryways with 100+ guests present was imperative. This prompted us and the homeowner to create extra square footage around these amenities. The kitchen also received the double island treatment. Allowing guests to be hosted at one of the larger islands (capable of seating 5-6) while hors d'oeuvres and refreshments can be prepared on the smaller more centrally located island, helped these happy hosts to staff and plan events accordingly. Placement of these rooms relative to each other in the floor plan was also key to keeping all of the excitement happening in one place, making regular events easy to monitor, easy to maintain and relatively easy to clean-up. Some other important features that made this house a party-palace were a hidden butler's pantry, multiple wetbars and prep spaces, sectional seating inside and out, and double dining nooks (formal and informal).
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
This family is very involved with their church and hosts community events weekly; so the need to access the kitchen, seating areas, dining and entryways with 100+ guests present was imperative. This prompted us and the homeowner to create extra square footage around these amenities. The kitchen also received the double island treatment. Allowing guests to be hosted at one of the larger islands (capable of seating 5-6) while hors d'oeuvres and refreshments can be prepared on the smaller more centrally located island, helped these happy hosts to staff and plan events accordingly. Placement of these rooms relative to each other in the floor plan was also key to keeping all of the excitement happening in one place, making regular events easy to monitor, easy to maintain and relatively easy to clean-up. Some other important features that made this house a party-palace were a hidden butler's pantry, multiple wetbars and prep spaces, sectional seating inside and out, and double dining nooks (formal and informal).
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

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

It’s important to make sure that all trees on your property are healthy and in good condition. This means hiring professional tree trimming services to maintain your trees yearly in order to keep them looking beautiful and healthy. In late winter or early spring is the best time to trim your trees. Doing so will help to improve the new growth that happens later in the spring. But fruit bearing trees and damaged trees can benefit from careful pruning in the summer. It takes an expert to skillfully trim trees during the summer without damaging them or causing harm and our team at Five Star Tree Services is just a call away to help you with your tree trimming needs!
Why Trim Your Trees?
By trimming your trees annually, this will not only open up your landscaping, which allows more sunlight to get to your property, but there are many other benefits.
These can include:
-Keep Trees Healthy and Promote Growth
When you trim your trees in the spring, before they start producing buds, this helps to stimulate more new growth, which helps to keep trees in excellent condition. This can be especially important for saplings as it encourages them to fill out nicely and in a controlled and structurally sound way. If you are not maintaining your trees properly, they can become too dense, which causes a bunch of problems. One being that it restricts the amount of sunlight getting to all the leaves and it reduces the amount of nutrient circulation needed to support the tree.
Professional tree pruning properly aids in tree growth and its overall aesthetic. Cutting off unneeded or unwanted branches allows other parts of the tree to grow easier. Ridding the tree of these extra branches also stimulates more leaf and fruit production.
-Increased Safety
Your landscape is affected when you neglect to take care of your trees, along with everything else on your property. If you have any dead trees remaining on your property, not only are you putting yourself at risk of injury, but you are putting your family, neighbours, pedestrians, and guests at risk as well. Dead or damaged branches can also be a hazard as they could fall at any time and impact with anyone standing too close to it, or it can fall on your house, which is another issue altogether, if it causes damage. Luckily, you are able to avoid all of this by simply having regular trimmings that will keep your trees healthy. You also need to make sure that all branches close to power lines are cut. This especially, should only be done by a trained professional in order to avoid potential electrocution.
-Increase Production of Fruit
If you are lucky enough to have a fruit bearing tree, it is especially important to have it professionally trimmed before and after it fruits. Doing so helps to improve its overall health and ability to bear fruit by getting rid of unhealthy branches. New fruit also develops and spurs for bearing fruit for the following year.
-Manage Spreading Diseases
Tree branches that are damaged tend to be prone to diseases which are able to spread to other plants and trees in your yard. Branches that are dead also have the potential to easily fall with any wind and especially during a storm. Severely damaged branches can even fall without reason. When you get your trees trimmed and pruned regularly, this prevents these things from happening. It also prevents spreading disease to other trees. Any disease branches should especially be trimmed if they are close to where kids play, people walk, or by doors.
-Increase the Value of Your Property and Overall Appearance
Continuous maintenance and trilling will improve the aesthetic of your property. It controls clutter and opens up the space of the landscaping. Meaning that the curbside appeal to your property increases. This is especially important if you are planning to sell your house, which will actually raise the value of your property. The first step in enhancing the appearance of your property is properly taking care of your trees. The first thing people see when they pull up to or go past your house is the trees. By simply pruning your trees you can make a good impression on potential buyers and your neighbours as well.
-Safeguarding Your Property
Owning a house is the biggest investment you will probably ever make. Making the effort to maintain and increase its value by keeping it in good condition should be your first priority. By trimming your trees regularly, you will be protecting your investment. Not to mention this also allows you to enjoy a nicely manicured property.
Why Professionals Are Essential
Professionals help to improve the health and overall condition of your trees. Trying to trim or prune your trees when you don’t know how can be detrimental. This is why hiring a professional, who has the right knowledge and tools, is better than trying to do it yourself.
-Cost-Effective
Think of it as a short-term expense for a long-term return on your investment. Allowing professional arborists to do your tree maintenance can potentially help to negate the costs of injuries attained from DIY home improvements related to trees, replacements and repairs.
-Skilled and Experienced
Real tools required for trimming a tree need to be handled properly and by the appropriate people. If a regular person were to try and use these tools, the end result could be injury and property damage. This is especially true for any trimming required around power lines. All professionals will have the right experience and skills required to wield these tools in a safe way. This minimizes the likelihood of hazards, injuries, and life-threatening incidents.
-Proper Tools
Heavy-duty chainsaws, ladders, and protective gear are all needed to safely and properly trim a tree. When you hire a professional, they have all the required tools and more. Meaning that you won’t have to go out and buy these tools yourself. As a professional, they also make sure that their tools are reliable and well-maintained in order to efficiently get the job done well.
-Insured
Professionals are also always insured with liability insurance when doing jobs to cover any damages or injuries attained while working. They are able to also provide a guarantee for the safety of your property and belongings while they are doing a job for you.
How Five Star Tree Services Can Help
Although trimming your tree might seem like an easy job, it’s always best to trust the professionals. Proper execution of the task requires the right skills, experience, and knowledge. Our team at Five Star Tree Services have all of this and more! Give us a call at (416) 990-3355 to enlist us for all your Toronto Tree Trimming needs!

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
This family is very involved with their church and hosts community events weekly; so the need to access the kitchen, seating areas, dining and entryways with 100+ guests present was imperative. This prompted us and the homeowner to create extra square footage around these amenities. The kitchen also received the double island treatment. Allowing guests to be hosted at one of the larger islands (capable of seating 5-6) while hors d'oeuvres and refreshments can be prepared on the smaller more centrally located island, helped these happy hosts to staff and plan events accordingly. Placement of these rooms relative to each other in the floor plan was also key to keeping all of the excitement happening in one place, making regular events easy to monitor, easy to maintain and relatively easy to clean-up. Some other important features that made this house a party-palace were a hidden butler's pantry, multiple wetbars and prep spaces, sectional seating inside and out, and double dining nooks (formal and informal).
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Maintaining a pest-free home requires attention throughout the year. Seasonal changes affect pest behavior, and understanding these patterns can save homeowners from costly damage and health hazards. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for spring pest prevention tips, ensuring your property stays protected through every season. From spotting early signs to implementing proactive measures, these steps empower homeowners to take control before infestations occur.
Understanding Seasonal Pest Patterns
Pests adapt to changing weather, and knowing their patterns helps prevent infestations effectively.
Spring: Awakening Pests
Spring signals the end of winter dormancy for many pests. Rodents, ants, and termites start seeking food and warmth. Effective spring pest prevention tips include:
● Cleaning gutters and removing debris
● Sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls
● Inspecting wood piles and compost areas
● Monitoring early signs of termite activity
Pro Tip: Conduct a termite inspection or a professional evaluation to catch infestations early before they spread.
Summer: Peak Pest Season
Warm temperatures accelerate pest breeding cycles. For a comprehensive summer pest prevention guide:
● Maintain lawns and trim vegetation away from homes
● Check window and door screens for tears
● Store food in sealed containers
● Inspect water sources that attract mosquitoes
Do You Know? Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a teaspoon of water. Eliminating stagnant water is crucial to reducing their population.
Fall: Preparing for Winter
As temperatures drop, pests search for warm indoor spaces. Key actions include:
● Inspecting for winter rodent entry points
● Sealing attic vents, crawl spaces, and foundation gaps
● Cleaning storage areas to minimize hiding spots
● Checking chimney and fireplace openings
Quick Fact: Rodents can enter homes through openings as small as ¼ inch.
Seasonal Pest Checklist for Homeowners
Creating a structured seasonal pest checklist simplifies preventive measures and ensures nothing is overlooked.
Season
Key Actions
Spring
Inspect for termites, seal exterior gaps, clean gutters, and check compost
Summer
Repair screens, trim vegetation, remove standing water, and secure food
Fall
Seal entry points, inspect attic/crawlspace, clear debris, and prepare storage
Winter
Monitor indoor activity, keep firewood away from walls, and maintain traps
Inspection & Maintenance Tips
● Schedule annual pest inspections by professional Virginia pest control consultation to detect hidden problems
● Keep a log of pest sightings and treatment dates
● Regularly replace weather stripping and caulk cracks
Note: Even small preventive steps, when consistently applied, drastically reduce infestations.
Common Pests and Their Seasonal Behaviors
Understanding how different pests behave each season helps homeowners take timely action to protect their property.
● Ants and Termites: Ants emerge in spring seeking food, while termites become active and can damage wood unnoticed. Early detection is critical.
● Rodents and Mice: Fall and winter increase rodent intrusions. Block all entry points and keep food sealed.
● Mosquitoes and Flies: Summer creates the ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water and use physical barriers like nets.
● Spiders and Other Insects: Seasonal shifts cause spiders to move indoors. Regular vacuuming and decluttering reduce hiding spots.
Eco-Friendly Prevention Methods
● Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or diatomaceous earth
● Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to reduce pest populations
● Plant pest-deterring plants near home boundaries, like marigolds or lavender
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Adopt an IPM approach by combining physical barriers, monitoring, and environmentally safe treatments. This minimizes chemical use while maintaining a pest-free home.
Quote: “Prevention is the most effective form of pest control.” – National Pest Management Association
Seasonal Pest Prevention Tools
● Snap traps and humane rodent traps
● Sticky traps for insects
● Outdoor perimeter sprays (eco-friendly)
● Moisture meters to detect early termite or mold problems
Pro Tip: Keep tools organized and accessible to act quickly when pest activity is noticed.
Planning: Annual Pest Calendar
Month
Recommended Action
March-April
Spring pest prevention tips: Inspect, seal, clean gutters
June-July
Summer pest prevention guide: Screens, standing water, food storage
September
Seasonal pest checklist: Seal entries, declutter, prep storage
November
Winter rodent entry points: Monitor indoors, maintain traps
Key Takeaways
● Seasonal awareness prevents infestations and property damage
● Consistent inspections and maintenance are essential
● Simple eco-friendly measures can significantly reduce pests
● Use a structured checklist and calendar for effective prevention
Conclusion
Homeowners who stay proactive and follow spring pest prevention tips, along with year-round monitoring, ensure their properties remain safe and comfortable. Using a summer pest prevention guide, checking winter rodent entry points, and maintaining a seasonal pest checklist ensure your home remains safe and comfortable. Remember to combine inspections, physical barriers, and environmentally friendly methods for the best results.
FAQs
Q1: How often should I perform a termite inspection?
A1: Conduct inspections annually, especially in spring, to detect early signs of termite activity and prevent extensive damage.
Q2: Can pests enter my home during winter?
A2: Yes, rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter indoors. Sealing entry points and monitoring for activity is crucial.
Q3: What is the most effective eco-friendly method for pest prevention?
A3: Using natural repellents, encouraging beneficial insects, and eliminating water sources effectively reduces pest populations without chemicals.
Ensure your home is ready for every season. Schedule a professional Virginia pest control consultation or a termite inspection in Suffolk, VA, today and stay ahead of potential infestations.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Like the regular sized Moonrise, the Moonrise XL power reclining chair from Famaliving California reflects modern style due to its contemporary, rounded shape and extra large size, making it look almost like a small sofa. But what’s really special about the Moonrise XL is that it was designed as a recliner for two, making it a perfect choice for couples or close friends. It features rocking motion, 360 degrees rotation, and reclining capability, which will only enhance your experience; plus, it also comes with a powered reclining mechanism that allows the seat to be adjusted with a touch of a button. Built to last using pine wood and MDF materials in its frame construction, this special recliner is custom made and crafted by world-renowned Spanish manufacturer Famaliving. It’s also built with comfort in mind because of the cushioned foam used in the seat and fibersilk used in the back cushion and oversized arm pillows. And like all other Famaliving products, the Moonrise XL is made with a webbing system for suspension and support instead of the old spring design of the past, which typically sags over time. With more than 600 fabrics to choose from, the Moonrise XL can come upholstered in a wide range of colors or patterned fabrics, which means you’ll have plenty of choices to choose from to add to your home’s decor. The bottom has a circular metal base in a black finish that helps to maintain its low profile design and allow the 360 degree rotation.

Like the regular sized Moonrise, the Moonrise XL power reclining chair from Famaliving California reflects modern style due to its contemporary, rounded shape and extra large size, making it look almost like a small sofa. But what’s really special about the Moonrise XL is that it was designed as a recliner for two, making it a perfect choice for couples or close friends. It features rocking motion, 360 degrees rotation, and reclining capability, which will only enhance your experience; plus, it also comes with a powered reclining mechanism that allows the seat to be adjusted with a touch of a button. Built to last using pine wood and MDF materials in its frame construction, this special recliner is custom made and crafted by world-renowned Spanish manufacturer Famaliving. It’s also built with comfort in mind because of the cushioned foam used in the seat and fibersilk used in the back cushion and oversized arm pillows. And like all other Famaliving products, the Moonrise XL is made with a webbing system for suspension and support instead of the old spring design of the past, which typically sags over time. With more than 600 fabrics to choose from, the Moonrise XL can come upholstered in a wide range of colors or patterned fabrics, which means you’ll have plenty of choices to choose from to add to your home’s decor. The bottom has a circular metal base in a black finish that helps to maintain its low profile design and allow the 360 degree rotation.

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

Sealers really do bring out the best in Terracotta tiles, however the catch is they will wear off over time and if you want to maintain that appearance you have to work out a regular maintenance plan. If you don’t maintain the sealer you will find that the sealer near the most heavily used areas such as doors etc. will wear away first and once that happens dirt will become ingrained in the tile and becomes difficult to clean resulting in a patchy appearance.
The remaining sealer on this Terracotta tiled kitchen floor at a house in the town of Wickford, Essex was no longer effective and had worn completely off in places. The solution was to strip off the old sealer, clean the Terracotta tile and gout and then re-seal with a fresh seal.
I started by giving the floor a deep clean with Tile Doctor Pro Clean diluted 2 parts water to 1 part cleaner. This is quite a strong dilution designed to allow the removal of the sealer and was left to dwell on the floor for ten minutes before working it into the floor using a scrubbing machine fitted with a black pad. Surprisingly the sealer was proving difficult to shift in certain areas and I had to repeat the process a few times and made sure to give the grout a good scrubbing as well.
I managed to get rid of most of the sealer using this process and for the remaining stubborn areas I used a stronger product called Tile Doctor Remove and Go which is a very effective coatings remover that is safe to use on tiles. This did the trick and the floor was now free of sealers and the grout was looking much better too, the resultant slurry was removed using a wet vacuum and I then rinsed the floor several times with water before leaving it to dry for weekend.
Tile Doctor Colour Grow which is an impregnating sealer that seeps into the pores of the tile to block them and prevent contaminates becoming ingrained in there and it also enhances the natural colours. Once this was dry I followed up with a number of coats of Tile Doctor Seal and Go which is topical sealer that will protect the surface and adds a nice sheen to the floor and is a popular choice for Terracotta and Quarry tiles.
I’m not sure my photographs do this post any justice however hopefully you can see that floor was quite transformed, the grout is much cleaner and the colours in the Terracotta have really come to life.
Nick Murphy
South Essex Tile Doctor

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

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
This family is very involved with their church and hosts community events weekly; so the need to access the kitchen, seating areas, dining and entryways with 100+ guests present was imperative. This prompted us and the homeowner to create extra square footage around these amenities. The kitchen also received the double island treatment. Allowing guests to be hosted at one of the larger islands (capable of seating 5-6) while hors d'oeuvres and refreshments can be prepared on the smaller more centrally located island, helped these happy hosts to staff and plan events accordingly. Placement of these rooms relative to each other in the floor plan was also key to keeping all of the excitement happening in one place, making regular events easy to monitor, easy to maintain and relatively easy to clean-up. Some other important features that made this house a party-palace were a hidden butler's pantry, multiple wetbars and prep spaces, sectional seating inside and out, and double dining nooks (formal and informal).
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Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya
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