This cottage is situated on Lake Simcoe, Ontario. The owners of this cottage had a family cottage on Lake Simcoe that was grandfathered into the current shoreline regulations. We were able to build on the original cottage footprint using steel screw pile foundation drilled down to bedrock to maintain a stable foundation on the sand. The cottage features a large common room with a cathedral ceiling and clear storey windows. The cottage also has a two way fireplace and a cupula to bring light into the interior of the space. The cottage sits very close to the lake and features an expansive deck to take in the magnificent lake views.

The objective of this project was to create privacy and a new entrance for the street frontage of property, around existing mature trees. The design brief included carefully positioning timber steps and decking to protect tree roots, creating an inviting pathway to an obscured front door, implementing soft landscaping that would grow quickly to enhance privacy whilst conforming with strict regulations working within a heritage area.

Will Austin Photography
Inspiration for a modern kitchen remodel in Seattle

Starting with removal of old decks and railroad tie walls, the construction of this new asphalt basketball court replaced the lower level of this client's backyard that was originally hard to access. New walls were built and new pewter nicolock border was installed as a reinforcement for the asphalt edge. 8 inches of state approved RCA was installed and compacted and 2 inches of new asphalt was then installed and rolled over. One basketball hoop, one court light, a regulation key was striped on the asphalt floor, and a black chain link fence was installed around court, along with a row of arborvitaes and skip laurels complete the landscaping around the court.

This lower level space was inspired by Film director, write producer, Quentin Tarantino. Starting with the acoustical panels disguised as posters, with films by Tarantino himself. We included a sepia color tone over the original poster art and used this as a color palate them for the entire common area of this lower level. New premium textured carpeting covers most of the floor, and on the ceiling, we added LED lighting, Madagascar ebony beams, and a two-tone ceiling paint by Sherwin Williams. The media stand houses most of the AV equipment and the remaining is integrated into the walls using architectural speakers to comprise this 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos Setup. We included this custom sectional with performance velvet fabric, as well as a new table and leather chairs for family game night. The XL metal prints near the new regulation pool table creates an irresistible ambiance, also to the neighboring reclaimed wood dart board area. The bathroom design include new marble tile flooring and a premium frameless shower glass. The luxury chevron wallpaper gives this space a kiss of sophistication. Finalizing this lounge we included a gym with rubber flooring, fitness rack, row machine as well as custom mural which infuses visual fuel to the owner’s workout. The Everlast speedbag is positioned in the perfect place for those late night or early morning cardio workouts. Lastly, we included Polk Audio architectural ceiling speakers meshed with an SVS micros 3000, 800-Watt subwoofer.

Inspiration for a farmhouse pool remodel in Baltimore

This lower level space was inspired by Film director, write producer, Quentin Tarantino. Starting with the acoustical panels disguised as posters, with films by Tarantino himself. We included a sepia color tone over the original poster art and used this as a color palate them for the entire common area of this lower level. New premium textured carpeting covers most of the floor, and on the ceiling, we added LED lighting, Madagascar ebony beams, and a two-tone ceiling paint by Sherwin Williams. The media stand houses most of the AV equipment and the remaining is integrated into the walls using architectural speakers to comprise this 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos Setup. We included this custom sectional with performance velvet fabric, as well as a new table and leather chairs for family game night. The XL metal prints near the new regulation pool table creates an irresistible ambiance, also to the neighboring reclaimed wood dart board area. The bathroom design include new marble tile flooring and a premium frameless shower glass. The luxury chevron wallpaper gives this space a kiss of sophistication. Finalizing this lounge we included a gym with rubber flooring, fitness rack, row machine as well as custom mural which infuses visual fuel to the owner’s workout. The Everlast speedbag is positioned in the perfect place for those late night or early morning cardio workouts. Lastly, we included Polk Audio architectural ceiling speakers meshed with an SVS micros 3000, 800-Watt subwoofer.

Minimalist entryway photo in Other

DESIGN BY Robert M. Gurney, FAIA. This four-time award-winning St. Michael’s property is a contemporary gem on the water. The owners of the property originally intended to renovate an existing ’80s structure, but soon realized it was beyond repair. Our team commenced a full tear down and rebuild on the existing footprint to keep with county regulations for waterfront structures. The result is a modern take on the lake house, a light-filled sanctuary built with integrity to stand the tests of time and the elements. Excellence in Custom Building Winner in Annapolis Home Magazine 2017.

90x210 LOT by levee! Walk thru beveled glass DBL doors into a grand foyer w/18 ft ceiling, marble floors & crystal chandelier. Elegant dining room w/crystal chandelier & buffet. Built to entertain w/2 story brick fireplace, parlor, full size bar or relax in sauna, play a game of basketball or tennis on lit regulation size court. Master w/fireplace, 2 walk-in closets, Jacuzzi. Kitchen w/granite tops, DBL ovens, ice maker, Subzero frig, walk-in pantry. Covered patio w/built-in bque pit. 2 car garage+workshop

DESIGN BY Robert M. Gurney, FAIA. This four-time award-winning St. Michael’s property is a contemporary gem on the water. The owners of the property originally intended to renovate an existing ’80s structure, but soon realized it was beyond repair. Our team commenced a full tear down and rebuild on the existing footprint to keep with county regulations for waterfront structures. The result is a modern take on the lake house, a light-filled sanctuary built with integrity to stand the tests of time and the elements. Excellence in Custom Building Winner in Annapolis Home Magazine 2017.

This is an example of a traditional landscaping in Other.

This lower level space was inspired by Film director, write producer, Quentin Tarantino. Starting with the acoustical panels disguised as posters, with films by Tarantino himself. We included a sepia color tone over the original poster art and used this as a color palate them for the entire common area of this lower level. New premium textured carpeting covers most of the floor, and on the ceiling, we added LED lighting, Madagascar ebony beams, and a two-tone ceiling paint by Sherwin Williams. The media stand houses most of the AV equipment and the remaining is integrated into the walls using architectural speakers to comprise this 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos Setup. We included this custom sectional with performance velvet fabric, as well as a new table and leather chairs for family game night. The XL metal prints near the new regulation pool table creates an irresistible ambiance, also to the neighboring reclaimed wood dart board area. The bathroom design include new marble tile flooring and a premium frameless shower glass. The luxury chevron wallpaper gives this space a kiss of sophistication. Finalizing this lounge we included a gym with rubber flooring, fitness rack, row machine as well as custom mural which infuses visual fuel to the owner’s workout. The Everlast speedbag is positioned in the perfect place for those late night or early morning cardio workouts. Lastly, we included Polk Audio architectural ceiling speakers meshed with an SVS micros 3000, 800-Watt subwoofer.

Clients love to entertain! And why wouldn't they, when they have a space like this? When I arrived, this huge space was nothing but bare soil. What a transformation! Project goals primarily focused on the creation of a beautiful space to enjoy with multiple outdoor rooms, space to grow food and space to play outside with guests. We created a regulation-size bocce ball court, large fountain and pond, and used an incredible and diverse selection of drought-tolerant plants including California native selections as well as plants from South Africa, Australia and beyond. Textures and colors form a buzzing, living tapestry which is framed by magnificent views of the fields and distant mountains. All garden elements are connected by winding decomposed granite pathways so the frequent guests, children and grandchildren can roam freely. Raised veggie beds provide a bountiful harvest of veggies and tomatoes. The sound of flowing water and the tranquil garden make it impossible to go inside; this is outdoor living at its finest!

Von Jover of Pleiocene Pictures
Minimalist living room photo in Other

As we are committed to continuing education and to staying abreast of developments in industry construction methods, safety regulations and technology, Riverbend Sandler Pools is a proud member of Carecraft, The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) and The Better Business Bueau (BBB).

When I came to this property not only was the landscape a scrappy mess the property also had some very real grading and drainage issues that were jeopardizing the safety of this house. As recent transplants from New Jerseys to Southern California these clients were in awe of all the plants they were seeing in their neighborhood. Living on the water at the Ventura harbor they wanted to be able to take full advantage or the outdoor lifestyle and cool ocean breeze. Being environmentally conscious citizens, these clients were very concerned that their garden was designed with sustainability as a leading factor. As they said in our initial consultation, “Would want or garden be part of the solution not part of the problem.” This property is the last house on the bottom of a gently sloping street. All the water from the neighbor’s houses drain onto this property. When I came into this project the back yard sloped into the house. When it would rain the water would pool up against the house causing water damage. To address the drainage we employed several tactics. Firstly, we had to invert the slope in the back yard so that water would not pool against the house. We created a very minor slope going away from the house so that water drains away but so the patio area feels flat. The back of the back yard had an existing retaining wall made out of shabby looking slump stone. In front of that retaining wall we created a beautiful natural stone retaining wall. This retain wall severs many purposes. One it works as a place to put some of the soil removed from the grading giving this project a smaller carbon foot print (moving soil of a site burns a lot of fossil fuel). The retaining wall also helps obscure the shabby existing retaining wall and allows for planting space above the footing from the existing retaining wall. The soil behind the ne retaining wall is slightly lower than the top of the wall so that when the run on water on from the neighbor’s property flows it is slowed down and absorbed before it has a chance to get near the house. Finally, the wall is at a height designed to serve as overflow seating as these clients intend to have occasional large parties and gatherings. Other efforts made to help keep the house safe and dry are that we used permeable paving. With the hardscape being comprised of flag stone with gravel in-between water has a chance to soak into the ground so it does not flow into spots where it will pool up. The final element to help keep the house dry is the addition of infiltration swales. Infiltration swales are depressions in the landscape that capture rain water. The down spouts on the sides of the houses are connected to pipe that goes under the ground and conveys the water to the swales. In this project it helps move rain water away from the house. In general, these Infiltration swales are a powerful element in creating sustainable landscapes. These swales capture pollutants that accumulate on the roof and in the landscape. Biology in the soil in the swales can break down these pollutants. When run of watered is not captured by soil on a property the dirty water flows into water ways and then the ocean were the biology that breaks down the pollutants is not as prolific. This is particularly important in this project as it drains directly into the harbor. The water that is absorbed in to the swales can replenish aquafers as well as increasing the water available to the plants planted in that area recusing the amount of water that is needed from irrigation. When it came to the planting we went with a California friendly tropical theme. Using lots of succulents and plants with colorful foliage we created vibrant lush landscape that will have year around color. We planted densely (the images in the picture were taken only a month after installation). Taller drought tolerant plants to help regulate the temperature and loss of water from the plants below them. The dense plantings will help keep the garden, the house and even the neighborhood cooler on hot days, will provide spaces for birds to enjoy and will create an illusion of depth in a somewhat narrow space. Today this garden is a space these homeowners can fully enjoy while having the peace of mind that their house is protected from flooding and they are helping the environment.

This sophisticated home is located in the highly sought after Westlake Village, and ideally situated at the end of the most private Cul-De-Sac lots with pocket views. Enter through custom iron gates and stone walkway, into a tranquil courtyard w/ fountain, and step inside this rare gem. Reap the benefits of SoCal living in this single story Ranch home, boasting abundant natural light, vaulted ceilings, and a refreshing connection between the interior/exterior spaces. Attention to luxurious detail throughout! Relax to the sound of the majestic stone waterfall, which pours into the Pentair and PebbleTek pool and spa-all operated by mobile device. Flanking the custom pool are two fire feature structures: A stacked stone gas fireplace with fireglass, custom iron gates, and hearth AND a stacked stone firepit with fireglass and ceramic sphere. Stamped, stained, and sealed concrete, professional landscape lighting, high-end American made artificial grass, and lush landscape. Attached Cabana boasting tongue & groove pine ceilings, Infratech electric heaters, ceiling fans, dimmable can lights operated via mobile device, string lights, and split-faced travertine stacked stone! Cook like a pro both inside and outside! INSIDE: Gourmet kitchen w/custom cherrywood cabinets, cabinetry lighting, Ubatuba Brazilian granite counters, Viking professional hood, Viking 6 burner + griddle range w/double oven, Viking Warmer, GE compactor, Miele dishwasher. Showcase your private vino collection with the built-in 178 bottle temperature dual regulated Wine Refrigerator. OUTSIDE: Enjoy preparing meals and entertaining al fresco, with the new entertainer's back yard oasis. Built-in Memphis Elite-Wifi compatible BBQ and convection oven, dual fridges, Hot/Cold plumbed Sink, additional storage cabinets, and an oversized stained concrete island- all crowned by an attached redwood pergola with twinkle lights. Perfectly sized master suite featuring paper glazed metallic walls, oversized French doors, expansive walk-in closet with built-ins, and a crème de la crème master bathroom. Skip the day spa and step into your Kohler Steam shower with rain head, artistic imported granite, dimmable lighting, pebble flooring, bench seat & frameless glass enclosure. Custom cabinetry with sleek counters, dual sinks, dimmable lighting & views of the private yard. Additional Features/Upgrades: Paid Solar panels, Tesla ready charging port in garage, Tankless water heater, Concrete roof, Indoor laundry, Dual pane windows, plantation shutters, crown molding, recessed lights, classic French doors, Santos Brazilian wood flooring, Interior/Exterior built-in Bose speaker system, Interior/Exterior security camera system, venetian plaster/designer wall finishes, new silent garage door motor, newer HVAC system, and more. Don't miss this opportunity to have it all!

a classic city home, built in the 50’s. Her family moved in August of ’18, and in less than a year, she’s already completed a number of remodel projects including additions to the master bedroom and 2-bedroom + bath “kids’ wing.” She’s opened walls from the kitchen to the living and dining rooms creating a massive open floor plan and refinished all the original hardwood floors. After seeing her beautifully furnished space and hearing her listing everything she’s done to get her house the way it looks today, I had so many exciting ideas to help her add the finishing touches she was needing and to give her the look she was going for. Referencing her inspiration pics saved to Houzz and Pinterest, the first item on the list was to add window treatments. These were presented in a soft, crisp white fabric which maintains the brightness for each room, diffusing the sunlight throughout, keeping each space light and airy. The simple functional panels give her the privacy she wanted from all the passersby walking the park, which are lined to help regulate the temperature differences she needed. The hardware for these panels is something to mention –simple, modern, matte black rods and brackets, highlighted with acrylic finials and gold rings. This combination is an exclamation point showcasing what custom window treatments can really do for a room. The main dining room window boasts a striking contrast of rich black wide leather tape, drawing your eye right to the beautiful picture window, which in and of itself is a perfect accent to this space. From there, adding the right wall hangings and artwork, task lighting, accessories, and accents layered throughout, mixing lots of textures, metal finishes, and varying shades of color synchronizes one room to the next buttoning up the entire design concept she was striving to achieve.