Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment. The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends. In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality. Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone. The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch. The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment. Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design Photography by: Emily Keeney

Creating a Dream Kitchen: Where Beauty Meets Functionality
The kitchen is the heart of every modern home. Today, kitchen design goes beyond just cabinet layouts and color schemes—it’s about optimizing space and ensuring high-performance functionality. One often overlooked yet crucial element is a well-designed plumbing system, which can dramatically enhance both the aesthetics and efficiency of your space.
Hidden Plumbing: The Secret to Sleek, Modern Designs
Leading interior designers in Phoenix, Arizona, emphasize that a professional plumbing system can make a significant difference in a kitchen’s final look. Companies like APS Plumbing, with their expertise in concealed plumbing installations, help architects and homeowners achieve that flawless, minimalist design.
5 Key Plumbing Tips for an Efficient Kitchen:
Smart Placement – Strategically position faucets and drainage points to enhance both aesthetics and daily usability.
High-Quality Materials – Invest in durable pipes and fittings to minimize frequent repairs.
Professional Insulation – Prevent energy loss and reduce unwanted noise with proper pipe insulation.
Easy Access – Design the system so future repairs don’t require extensive demolition.
Appliance Compatibility – Ensure plumbing aligns with modern appliances like side-by-side refrigerators and advanced dishwashers.
Choosing the Right Professional
As seen in high-end design projects, working with experienced plumbing teams like APS Plumbing—who understand modern design needs—can prevent costly future issues. Their free pre-installation consultations help homeowners and designers choose the best solutions for combining beauty and functionality.
Final Thoughts
A truly modern kitchen achieves perfection by paying attention to every technical detail. Investing in a professional plumbing system not only increases your home’s value but also enhances everyday cooking and living experiences. For your next project, consult experts who combine technical knowledge with a strong sense of aesthetics.

Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment. The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends. In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality. Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone. The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch. The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment. Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design Photography by: Emily Keeney

Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment. The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends. In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality. Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone. The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch. The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment. Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design Photography by: Emily Keeney

Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment. The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends. In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality. Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone. The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch. The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment. Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design Photography by: Emily Keeney

Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment. The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends. In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality. Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone. The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch. The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment. Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design Photography by: Emily Keeney

This modern green home offers both a vacation destination on Cape Cod near local family members and an opportunity for rental income. FAMILY ROOTS. A West Coast couple living in the San Francisco Bay Area sought a permanent East Coast vacation home near family members living on Cape Cod. As academic professionals focused on sustainability, they sought a green, energy efficient home that was well-aligned with their values. With no green homes available for sale on Cape Cod, they decided to purchase land near their family and build their own. SLOPED SITE. Comprised of a 3/4 acre lot nestled in the pines, the steeply sloping terrain called for a plan that embraced and took advantage of the slope. Of equal priority was optimizing solar exposure, preserving privacy from abutters, and creating outdoor living space. The design accomplished these goals with a simple, rectilinear form, offering living space on the both entry and lower/basement levels. The stepped foundation allows for a walk-out basement level with light-filled living space on the down-hill side of the home. The traditional basement on the eastern, up-hill side houses mechanical equipment and a home gym. The house welcomes natural light throughout, captures views of the forest, and delivers entertainment space that connects indoor living space to outdoor deck and dining patio. MODERN VISION. The clean building form and uncomplicated finishes pay homage to the modern architectural legacy on the outer Cape. Durable and economical fiber cement panels, fixed with aluminum channels, clad the primary form. Cedar clapboards provide a visual accent at the south-facing living room, which extends a single roof plane to cover the entry porch. SMART USE OF SPACE. On the entry level, the “L”-shaped living, dining, and kitchen space connects to the exterior living, dining, and grilling spaces to effectively double the home’s summertime entertainment area. Placed at the western end of the entry level (where it can retain privacy but still claim expansive downhill views) is the master suite with a built-in study. The lower level has two guest bedrooms, a second full bathroom, and laundry. The flexibility of the space—crucial in a house with a modest footprint—emerges in one of the guest bedrooms, which doubles as home office by opening the barn-style double doors to connect it to the bright, airy open stair leading up to the entry level. Thoughtful design, generous ceiling heights and large windows transform the modest 1,100 sf* footprint into a well-lit, spacious home. *(total finished space is 1800 sf) RENTAL INCOME. The property works for its owners by netting rental income when the owners are home in San Francisco. The house especially caters to vacationers bound for nearby Mayo Beach and includes an outdoor shower adjacent to the lower level entry door. In contrast to the bare bones cottages that are typically available on the Cape, this home offers prospective tenants a modern aesthetic, paired with luxurious and green features. Durable finishes inside and out will ensure longevity with the heavier use that comes with a rental property. COMFORT YEAR-ROUND. The home is super-insulated and air-tight, with mechanical ventilation to provide continuous fresh air from the outside. High performance triple-paned windows complement the building enclosure and maximize passive solar gain while ensuring a warm, draft-free winter, even when sitting close to the glass. A properly sized air source heat pump offers efficient heating & cooling, and includes a carefully designed the duct distribution system to provide even comfort throughout the house. The super-insulated envelope allows us to significantly reduce the equipment capacity, duct size, and airflow quantities, while maintaining unparalleled thermal comfort. ENERGY EFFICIENT. The building’s shell and mechanical systems play instrumental roles in the home’s exceptional performance. The building enclosure reduces the most significant energy glutton: heating. Continuous super-insulation, thorough air sealing, triple-pane windows, and passive solar gain work together to yield a miniscule heating load. All active energy consumers are extremely efficient: an air source heat pump for heating and cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation (ERV), and high efficiency appliances. The result is a home that uses 70% less energy than a similar new home built to code requirements. OVERALL. The home embodies the owners’ goals and values while comprehensively enabling thermal comfort, energy efficiency, a vacation respite, and supplementary income. PROJECT TEAM ZeroEnergy Design - Architect & Mechanical Designer A.F. Hultin & Co. - Contractor Pamet Valley Landscape Design - Landscape & Masonry Lisa Finch - Original Artwork European Architectural Supply - Windows Eric Roth Photography - Photography

Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment. The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends. In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality. Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone. The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch. The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment. Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design Photography by: Emily Keeney

There are a lot of different materials used in making a roof. In the past, roofs were made out of wood and shingles. Now, they are made out of a variety of different materials like steel and plastic. But, no matter what material your roof uses, it needs to be durable and waterproof. The new roof system that was developed by GM Systems Inc. combines different materials to make a sturdy and durable roof that is also very easy to install. This new roof is designed to keep the elements away from your home. It will also protect you from the heat of the sun. This means that you won't have to worry about the roof causing you problems. You will be able to enjoy the comfort of your home while using a product that works great. This is something that you can't say for many other products. The roof that GM Systems Inc. created has been tested and approved by many experts in the industry. So, you can rest assured that you are using a quality product. 1. What is GM Systems Inc.? GM Systems Inc. is a company that is dedicated to providing top-quality roofing systems. They provide quality roofing materials and services that exceed all expectations. They offer an extensive line of products that are durable and energy-efficient. In fact, the company was able to produce a great product because it invested heavily in research and development. The company invested thousands of dollars to create a unique product. It is because of this that the company can claim that it has the best product on the market. 2. Features of GM Systems Inc. Roof system GM Systems Inc. Roof system is a new type of material that can protect the roof of your home. It is very versatile, and you can use it for any type of roof, including flat and curved roofs. If you need a new roof, GM Systems Inc. can help you to replace the old one. You can either repair the old roof or completely replace it with this new roof. The new roof is a great solution because it protects your home. It will keep the rain and wind out. It will also reduce your monthly bills. In addition, it helps you to reduce the chances of your home getting damaged by the weather. The new roof can help you to get a longer lifespan for your roof. You can also use the roof to save energy. It will help you to lower your utility bills. 3. Types of roofing system Many companies make roofing systems. They provide different types of roofs. They can be categorized into three types: flat roofs, sloped roofs, and steel roofs. Flat roofs: A flat roof has a smooth surface. This is because the roof is made of asphalt or tar. They are easy to maintain. They can last for a long time and they are usually affordable. They are usually found in houses. Slope roofs: A sloping roof has a steep incline. They can be made of clay tiles, cement tiles, or a combination of materials. They can withstand heavy winds. Steel roofs: Steel roofs are available in different sizes. The size is dependent on the amount of space you need to be covered. The larger the size, the more you pay for the roof. Steel roofs are also easy to repair. They are very simple to put together and take apart. They have an open structure and they don't require any kind of insulation. A steel roof doesn't require much maintenance either. The main issue with steel roofs is that they can get too hot in certain weather conditions. 4. How is it different from the conventional roofing system? You can buy a steel roof for many reasons. It is easier to install than a conventional roof and it is also less expensive to install. It's a durable roof that lasts for years. It requires less maintenance than conventional roofs and is easy to repair. 5. GM Systems Inc. Roofing material GM Systems Inc.. is used to protect building materials and it keeps the rain away. Steel roofs are made of metal and aluminum. They are lightweight and durable. They can withstand wind and rain. They don't rust. Steel roofs can be bought in many colors. They can also be designed according to your taste. Steel roofs are known to be one of the best roofing systems. 6. The installation process of the new roof system The installation process of the new roof system is simple. It is the best way to ensure that your roof lasts for a long time. You should hire the best roof installation company to install the new roof system. Steel roofs are the best for you if you want to protect your house from the elements. They will also protect your house from moisture and snow. These roofs can last a lifetime. It is recommended to buy steel roofs because they can withstand extreme weather conditions. 7. What are the benefits of the new roof system from GM Systems Inc.? The benefits of the new roof system from GM Systems Inc. include being able to install the new roof easily. You can just call them and ask for a quote. You will get a price estimate immediately. There is no need to pay for an installation person first. It's time-consuming, and you may have to wait around for them. You will not have to go through the hassle of having to hire a different contractor for the roof repair. If you are not sure about your options, then you can always call the company. They will provide you with the right information. It is also easy to find the new roof system. It is located in the roofing section.

Embarking on a bathroom remodeling project is an exciting endeavor that can greatly enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and value of your home. However, finding a reliable and skilled contractor in a bustling city like Los Angeles can be a daunting task. To simplify the process and ensure a successful bathroom renovation, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to find a reputable bathroom remodeling contractor in Los Angeles, California. Start with Online Research: The first step in your quest for a reliable contractor is to conduct thorough online research. Utilize search engines like Google to find bathroom remodeling contractors in Los Angeles. Be sure to include specific keywords such as "bathroom remodeling," "contractor," and "Los Angeles" to refine your search results. Check Online Directories and Review Platforms: Explore online directories and review platforms like Yelp, Angie's List, and Houzz to find a curated list of bathroom remodeling contractors in Los Angeles. These platforms often provide detailed information about contractors, including customer reviews, ratings, project photos, and contact details. Assess the overall rating and read through multiple reviews to gauge the contractor's reputation and reliability. Seek Recommendations: Ask friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues who have recently undergone a bathroom remodeling project in Los Angeles for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences that online research may not uncover. Inquire about the contractor's professionalism, craftsmanship, adherence to timelines, and overall satisfaction with the project. Verify Credentials and Licensing: Once you have shortlisted potential contractors, it is crucial to verify their credentials and licensing. Check if they are licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) in California. A valid license ensures that the contractor meets the state's requirements and regulations. Additionally, inquire about their insurance coverage to protect against any potential liabilities during the remodeling process. Evaluate Experience and Expertise: Assess the experience and expertise of the contractors on your list. Look for contractors who specialize in bathroom remodeling and have a proven track record of successful projects. Review their portfolios or ask for references to see examples of their previous work. A skilled contractor should be able to handle a variety of bathroom designs and styles, and provide creative solutions to meet your specific needs. Schedule In-Person Consultations: Arrange in-person consultations with the shortlisted contractors. Use this opportunity to discuss your remodeling goals, budget, timeline, and any specific requirements you may have. A reputable contractor will listen attentively, provide insights, and offer suggestions based on their expertise. Pay attention to their communication style, professionalism, and responsiveness, as these qualities are crucial for a smooth working relationship. Request Detailed Quotes and Contracts: Ask the contractors for detailed written quotes that outline the project's scope, materials, labor costs, and any additional expenses. A comprehensive quote will help you compare the estimates provided by different contractors effectively. Once you have selected a contractor, ensure that you have a detailed contract in place that covers all aspects of the project, including timelines, payment schedules, warranties, and dispute resolution processes. Seek Permits and Building Code Compliance: Bathroom remodeling projects often require permits and adherence to building codes. A reputable contractor will be familiar with the local building regulations in Los Angeles and should handle the permit application process on your behalf. Verify that the contractor will obtain the necessary permits and ensure that all work is compliant with local codes and regulations. Conclusion: Finding a bathroom remodeling contractor in Los Angeles, California, may seem overwhelming, but by following these guidelines, you can streamline the process and select a contractor who meets your expectations. Conduct thorough online research, seek recommendations, verify credentials, evaluate experience, and schedule in-person consultations to make an informed decision.

Photography by Meredith Heuer
Mid-sized ornate master multicolored tile and ceramic tile marble floor and white floor claw-foot bathtub photo in New York with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, white walls and a trough sink

How Planning Leads to Successful Construction Construction projects, whether small residential jobs or large commercial builds, require more than just skilled labor and high-quality materials. The foundation of a successful project lies in effective planning. Proper planning ensures efficiency, minimizes risks, and keeps the project within budget and on schedule. Here’s how thorough planning leads to successful construction: 1. Clear Project Scope and Objectives Defining the project scope early on helps prevent scope creep and miscommunication. Establishing clear goals, deliverables, and timelines ensures that everyone involved understands the expectations. This prevents delays and unnecessary changes during construction. 2. Accurate Budgeting and Cost Control A well-planned project includes a detailed cost estimation. This accounts for labor, materials, permits, and unexpected contingencies. Without proper budgeting, costs can spiral out of control, leading to financial strain and potential project failure. 3. Efficient Resource Management Proper planning helps allocate resources effectively, including manpower, equipment, and materials. Scheduling workers and ordering materials at the right time avoids delays caused by shortages or logistical issues. 4. Risk Identification and Mitigation Every construction project comes with risks—weather delays, supply chain issues, safety hazards, or regulatory compliance concerns. Planning ahead allows for risk assessment and the implementation of strategies to mitigate potential problems before they occur. 5. Compliance with Regulations and Permits Failing to secure the necessary permits or adhere to building codes can halt a project indefinitely. Planning ensures that all legal requirements are met in advance, avoiding costly fines and legal complications. 6. Seamless Communication and Coordination A structured plan includes clear communication protocols between contractors, architects, engineers, and clients. When everyone is on the same page, mistakes are reduced, and the workflow remains smooth. 7. Improved Project Scheduling A construction schedule outlines each phase of the project, from site preparation to finishing touches. A well-planned schedule helps keep tasks on track, prevents unnecessary delays, and ensures timely project completion. 8. Higher Quality Workmanship Planning allows for a structured approach to quality control. By setting benchmarks, conducting inspections, and using the right materials, projects meet industry standards and client expectations. 9. Better Client Satisfaction When a project is completed on time, within budget, and meets quality expectations, client satisfaction increases. A satisfied client is more likely to recommend your services and return for future projects. Conclusion In construction, planning isn’t just a step—it’s the backbone of success. From budgeting and resource management to compliance and scheduling, thorough planning prevents costly errors, improves efficiency, and ensures a high-quality outcome. Whether you're working on a small driveway installation or a large-scale commercial project, investing time in planning will always pay off in the long run. Do you need expert concrete construction services that prioritize planning and quality? Contact us today!

Concrete can be made to look like any substance. Tile, stone, wood, brick, etc. With unlimited color options, Ky-Kan Coatings can transform any room in your home or business using lightweight, beautiful concrete.

This project was do in collaboration with my friends at Sweetwater Collaborative. Sweetwater Collaborative is a non-profit organization that work to educate the public about water wise and regenerative landscape practices. Funded by the City of Santa Barbara as well as several other business and agency Sweetwater Collaborative and I worked to installed this project with the help of volunteers. In a hands-on work shop we explained principles of water wise gardening and demonstrated best practices when installing sustainable landscapes. When the owner of this property decided to build an ADU ( Auxiliary Dwelling Unit) in their back yard they expanded the roof line of their property. In order to be in compliance with new California building the project required that a portion of the rain water coming onto this property must be stored on the property. That is where we came into help. Directing down spouts into basins, or swales in the soil is one of the most efficient and cost-effective way to capture and store rain water on a piece of land. Calculations were done to determine the volume of water coming of the roof line in a given rain event from the ADU. The calculations go: square footage of roofline times .62 times 1, for 1” of rain. That total gives you the amount of water in gallons. Then divide the number in gallons by 7.48 find the cubic feet in that number of gallons. Then a basin with that holding capacity was designed into the landscape. Then the plantings were chosen. In this project we went with an 100% California Native Plant palette. We did this to help educate people about all the benefits of growing natives and to show case some of the beautiful plants native to Southern California. Sothern California is how to some of the greatest biodiversity of plants in the world. Native Plants are best adapted to thrive conditions from which they are natively found plus they help provide forage to the native fauna such as birds and insects. Now the tenants in the ADU can look out and enjoy this colorful garden without the home owners needing to pay a huge water bill.

Challenge This Lafayette kitchen was dark and poorly-lit due to the unsightly soffits that hindered adequate lighting throughout the space. A bulky microwave cabinet impeded the homeowners’ ability to use the counter space below it, and the full range cooktop on the center island took up valuable prep space. Additional space was lost in an unused desk area that had no functional purpose. To make matters worse, a leaky appliance damaged their beautiful hardwood floors. Needless to say, these Lafayette homeowners were ready to remodel. With insurance check in hand, they contacted Riverside Construction to help them design and build a kitchen that would solve all of their functional challenges. Solution By removing the soffits, Riverside Construction was able to design the cabinets to reach all the way to the ceiling. This allowed for ample storage, and the ability for the homeowner to display her pretty dishes and other kitchen collectibles along one wall. A non-removable pipe along the second wall and above the sink prohibited Riverside Construction from adding glass panels. However, we were still able to attach a standard cabinet door instead and preserve the seamless look that the homeowner was looking for. The appliances were rearranged to make better use of the workspace and create better traffic flow. Luckily, we were able to locate the same hardwood flooring that had been laid in their kitchen (not always feasible). This allowed us to repair the damaged wood and blend it seamlessly with the existing floor. Although required by code, the homeowner didn’t like the outlets disrupting the visual appeal of the backsplash. She wanted Riverside Construction to figure out a way to hide all of the outlets. Our solution was to install power strips that mounted under the cabinets at a slight angle where the cabinet met the wall, making them less visible but still easily accessible. Results The homeowners were thrilled they didn’t need to pay for the cost of an entire new floor. They were also pleased with a beautiful new kitchen that met all of their needs exactly.

This project was do in collaboration with my friends at Sweetwater Collaborative. Sweetwater Collaborative is a non-profit organization that work to educate the public about water wise and regenerative landscape practices. Funded by the City of Santa Barbara as well as several other business and agency Sweetwater Collaborative and I worked to installed this project with the help of volunteers. In a hands-on work shop we explained principles of water wise gardening and demonstrated best practices when installing sustainable landscapes. When the owner of this property decided to build an ADU ( Auxiliary Dwelling Unit) in their back yard they expanded the roof line of their property. In order to be in compliance with new California building the project required that a portion of the rain water coming onto this property must be stored on the property. That is where we came into help. Directing down spouts into basins, or swales in the soil is one of the most efficient and cost-effective way to capture and store rain water on a piece of land. Calculations were done to determine the volume of water coming of the roof line in a given rain event from the ADU. The calculations go: square footage of roofline times .62 times 1, for 1” of rain. That total gives you the amount of water in gallons. Then divide the number in gallons by 7.48 find the cubic feet in that number of gallons. Then a basin with that holding capacity was designed into the landscape. Then the plantings were chosen. In this project we went with an 100% California Native Plant palette. We did this to help educate people about all the benefits of growing natives and to show case some of the beautiful plants native to Southern California. Sothern California is how to some of the greatest biodiversity of plants in the world. Native Plants are best adapted to thrive conditions from which they are natively found plus they help provide forage to the native fauna such as birds and insects. Now the tenants in the ADU can look out and enjoy this colorful garden without the home owners needing to pay a huge water bill.

This project was do in collaboration with my friends at Sweetwater Collaborative. Sweetwater Collaborative is a non-profit organization that work to educate the public about water wise and regenerative landscape practices. Funded by the City of Santa Barbara as well as several other business and agency Sweetwater Collaborative and I worked to installed this project with the help of volunteers. In a hands-on work shop we explained principles of water wise gardening and demonstrated best practices when installing sustainable landscapes. When the owner of this property decided to build an ADU ( Auxiliary Dwelling Unit) in their back yard they expanded the roof line of their property. In order to be in compliance with new California building the project required that a portion of the rain water coming onto this property must be stored on the property. That is where we came into help. Directing down spouts into basins, or swales in the soil is one of the most efficient and cost-effective way to capture and store rain water on a piece of land. Calculations were done to determine the volume of water coming of the roof line in a given rain event from the ADU. The calculations go: square footage of roofline times .62 times 1, for 1” of rain. That total gives you the amount of water in gallons. Then divide the number in gallons by 7.48 find the cubic feet in that number of gallons. Then a basin with that holding capacity was designed into the landscape. Then the plantings were chosen. In this project we went with an 100% California Native Plant palette. We did this to help educate people about all the benefits of growing natives and to show case some of the beautiful plants native to Southern California. Sothern California is how to some of the greatest biodiversity of plants in the world. Native Plants are best adapted to thrive conditions from which they are natively found plus they help provide forage to the native fauna such as birds and insects. Now the tenants in the ADU can look out and enjoy this colorful garden without the home owners needing to pay a huge water bill.

Challenge This Lafayette kitchen was dark and poorly-lit due to the unsightly soffits that hindered adequate lighting throughout the space. A bulky microwave cabinet impeded the homeowners’ ability to use the counter space below it, and the full range cooktop on the center island took up valuable prep space. Additional space was lost in an unused desk area that had no functional purpose. To make matters worse, a leaky appliance damaged their beautiful hardwood floors. Needless to say, these Lafayette homeowners were ready to remodel. With insurance check in hand, they contacted Riverside Construction to help them design and build a kitchen that would solve all of their functional challenges. Solution By removing the soffits, Riverside Construction was able to design the cabinets to reach all the way to the ceiling. This allowed for ample storage, and the ability for the homeowner to display her pretty dishes and other kitchen collectibles along one wall. A non-removable pipe along the second wall and above the sink prohibited Riverside Construction from adding glass panels. However, we were still able to attach a standard cabinet door instead and preserve the seamless look that the homeowner was looking for. The appliances were rearranged to make better use of the workspace and create better traffic flow. Luckily, we were able to locate the same hardwood flooring that had been laid in their kitchen (not always feasible). This allowed us to repair the damaged wood and blend it seamlessly with the existing floor. Although required by code, the homeowner didn’t like the outlets disrupting the visual appeal of the backsplash. She wanted Riverside Construction to figure out a way to hide all of the outlets. Our solution was to install power strips that mounted under the cabinets at a slight angle where the cabinet met the wall, making them less visible but still easily accessible. Results The homeowners were thrilled they didn’t need to pay for the cost of an entire new floor. They were also pleased with a beautiful new kitchen that met all of their needs exactly.