Situated mid-way between the historic Philips Academy campus and the bustling downtown area, this property came to life with a design that’s both functional and beautiful. When we initially sat down with the homeowners to discuss their lifestyle, they had just gotten a very exuberant puppy that needed a place to run and play. A traditional fence would isolate the yard and really restrict it’s flow, so we created a ‘puppy lawn’ surrounded by a stainless steel cable system that allows for a safe-dog environment while simultaneously keeping the sight lines open to the remainder of the property. A circular fieldstone fire pit with a hand-tooled, two-piece cap sits perfectly within the bluestone patio. Located adjacent to the screened porch in the most private part of the yard, the location is optimal for this ultimate four-season retreat. “The attention to detail is so critical to our builds. I constantly obsess over the ultimate ‘look’ as well as the fit and finish, as I believe it’s these details that the homeowners deserve. The bluestone cap on this fire pit was spec’d as two pieces to keep the joints minimal and clean. The exterior edge was rock-faced on-site by our masons and a stainless-steel ring in the center will protect the masonry from the heat of the flames. Careful stone selection as well as furniture choices create a composition that’s so very pleasing to the eye.” Russell Throughout the remainder of the property, matching fieldstone walls help with the slight grade change and is complemented by a variety of flowering perennials designed to have a succession of blooms, all within a cool color tone. Sit around the fire pit with a glass of wine on a crisp fall night and enjoy this perfect retreat within the energy of the downtown area; the dog is sure to join you.

Many young homeowners either have been told or believe that since I have a gas fireplace, there’s no need to sweep it. That is a false. Plain and simple. There are many ways you can hurt yourself, family and home by not following the recommendation of the National Fire Protection Association and the Chimney Safety Institute of America. What do they say? Whether you use or never use a wood burning or gas fireplace, it must be swept once per year. Why? Let’s discover the risk factors together. Risk #1 Blockages and Poor Ventilation It may seem like there’s nothing going on in the fireplace, but there’s a lot of activity that you won’t see. The volatility of wind in Chicago is undeniable. This causes leaves and debris to fly around landing in the chimney. Next, with Fall upon us, raccoons squirrels birds bats and other critters are finding a warmer place to camp for the Winter, and your chimney looks pretty good. Blocked by the wind and cold, the fireplace is a good place to sleep for the season. Not only are these blockages dangerous, but carbon monoxide (CO) can back up into your home instead to going up the chimney and outside of your home. Risk #2 Carbon Monoxide Did you know that gas fireplaces produce carbon monoxide? Without a clean and clear vent, carbon monoxide continues to build up inside of your home. What are the side effects? This can lead to dizziness, headaches and feeling sick to the stomach. This can be a serious problem if not caught in time. Risk #3 Damages! If the fireplace and chimney goes for extended periods of time without servicing, moisture can build up inside of the chimney causing damage and a big repair job. But let’s not forget that without good ventilation, the airflow again gets restricted. Now you’ll be stuck with your gas fireplace shutting down or even overheating. Risk #4 Potential for Fire Most times when you purchase a home, someone else lived in it. We don’t ask their habits, we just hope everything works. Before you start that fireplace, do you know if it was used? Do you know if it was a wood burning or gas fireplace? Was it always used in that way? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it’s time for a fireplace sweep & inspection. Here are some warning signs that you have a potential problem: • The smell of gas • A hint of burning smells • Moisture on the glass fireplace doors • Smoky smell • Headaches, dizziness • Carbon Monoxide detector goes off • The discovery of debris • Efflorescence or white color staining • Having trouble keeping the fireplace lit • Sooting or irregular flames Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349. So, when you hear someone say, I have a gas fireplace, no need to sweep it, you now know what you need to tell them.

Certified Green home. 38 Mar Azul N, Ponce Inlet, Florida NEW CONSTRUCTION. Masonry construction with Hurricane standards included. Walk into the front door and see thru to the covered 377 sq Ft Lanai. Open the QUAD sliders for the indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Outdoor shower and plumbed for a outdoor kitchen.Inside is beautiful Porcelain tile thru out. Open floor plan for living, kitchen and dining with soaring ceilings and recessed lighting. The kitchen has a Quartz 10 Foot long Island and walk in pantry. All bedrooms have their own bath and walk in closet plus a half bath for guests. It is definitely a must see to appreciate all the features. https://www.nodalview.com/BxkyYmbx5AcAbWvKcG9D1DgQ?viewer=mls Ponce Inlet Ponce Inlet is small, quiet safe seaside community at the end of the Daytona Beach peninsula. You are walking distance to the beach ,river, jetty, lighthouse and the Park.You are less than an hour away from Orlando. Las Olas Las Olas is the only gated subdivision in Ponce Inlet. There is a deeded beach walkway for the residents. Walking distance to the beach and the river. It is restricted for the protection of the values of the residences. https://floridagreenconstruction.us

Farmhouse style kitchen remodel. Our clients wanted to do a total refresh of their kitchen. We incorporated a warm toned vinyl flooring (Nuvelle Density Rigid Core in Honey Pecan"), two toned cabinets in a beautiful blue gray and cream (Diamond cabinets) granite countertops and a gorgeous gas range (GE Cafe Pro range). By overhauling the laundry and pantry area we were able to give them a lot more storage. We reorganized a lot of the kitchen creating a better flow specifically giving them a coffee bar station, cutting board station, and a new microwave drawer and wine fridge. Increasing the gas stove to 36" allowed the avid chef owner to cook without restrictions making his daily life easier. One of our favorite sayings is "I love it" and we are able to say thankfully we heard it a lot.

Installation by: Altera Landscape Photography by: Jeri Koegel The exterior design of this Shady Canyon estate proved to have several interesting challenges. From the long linear rear yard and the overall pie shape lot, the restrictive setbacks & fuel modification zone requirements, to the numerous design features desired by the Clients, this design layout proved to be intriguing and fun. Some of the main design features includes: an infinity edge and perimeter overflow pool, an infinity edge spa, large baja shelf, fire-pit seating patio, lounge seating patio, large putting green, covered seating area and a BBQ/bar gathering area, just to name a few of the numerous features. Also included in the design is a full renovation of the front and side yards which all blended with the rear into one cohesive exquisite environment

72" diameter Table with 36" built-in lazy susan on custom made ball bearings. Tusk Chairs available in many finishes and fabric or leather options
Dining room - mid-sized contemporary carpeted dining room idea in Portland Maine with beige walls

2016. "African Room" Interior Design Project by #OxaKovalli. The most exotic of all existing styles is the African style. A passion for the unfamiliar is so human. Decorating the interior in the African style excites the imagination and creates a sense of touching a mystery, something special. Maximum exotic and grotesque, it breaks the clichéd notions of how the interior should be. To give your home an African flavor, a global rearrangement of the apartment to arrange not necessarily. This style - is the very embodiment of dynamics, expression, and pounding vital energy. A neatly chosen game of contrasts can achieve an interesting visual effect in this interior. For example, for decorating the room, you can choose warm, soft, muted colors: sandy, terracotta, pale, the color of melted milk, ochre, or wood bark. Against this background, the items of decor, curtains, and drapery of saturated hues will look very impressive: scarlet or lemon-yellow finishing cloth of upholstered furniture, orange fixtures, and motley carpets with characteristic ornaments. In terms of colors, the African style imposes the only restriction: you should not use obviously synthetic, fluorescent colors.

Words cannot describe the level of transformation this beautiful 60’s ranch has undergone. The home was blessed with a ton of natural light, however the sectioned rooms made for large awkward spaces without much functionality. By removing the dividing walls and reworking a few key functioning walls, this home is ready to entertain friends and family for all occasions. The large island has dual ovens for serious bake-off competitions accompanied with an inset induction cooktop equipped with a pop-up ventilation system. Plenty of storage surrounds the cooking stations providing large countertop space and seating nook for two. The beautiful natural quartzite is a show stopper throughout with it’s honed finish and serene blue/green hue providing a touch of color. Mother-of-Pearl backsplash tiles compliment the quartzite countertops and soft linen cabinets. The level of functionality has been elevated by moving the washer & dryer to a newly created closet situated behind the refrigerator and keeps hidden by a ceiling mounted barn-door. The new laundry room and storage closet opposite provide a functional solution for maintaining easy access to both areas without door swings restricting the path to the family room. Full height pantry cabinet make up the rest of the wall providing plenty of storage space and a natural division between casual dining to formal dining. Built-in cabinetry with glass doors provides the opportunity to showcase family dishes and heirlooms accented with in-cabinet lighting. With the wall partitions removed, the dining room easily flows into the rest of the home while maintaining its special moment. A large peninsula divides the kitchen space from the seating room providing plentiful storage including countertop cabinets for hidden storage, a charging nook, and a custom doggy station for the beloved dog with an elevated bowl deck and shallow drawer for leashes and treats! Beautiful large format tiles with a touch of modern flair bring all these spaces together providing a texture and color unlike any other with spots of iridescence, brushed concrete, and hues of blue and green. The original master bath and closet was divided into two parts separated by a hallway and door leading to the outside. This created an itty-bitty bathroom and plenty of untapped floor space with potential! By removing the interior walls and bringing the new bathroom space into the bedroom, we created a functional bathroom and walk-in closet space. By reconfiguration the bathroom layout to accommodate a walk-in shower and dual vanity, we took advantage of every square inch and made it functional and beautiful! A pocket door leads into the bathroom suite and a large full-length mirror on a mosaic accent wall greets you upon entering. To the left is a pocket door leading into the walk-in closet, and to the right is the new master bath. A natural marble floor mosaic in a basket weave pattern is warm to the touch thanks to the heating system underneath. Large format white wall tiles with glass mosaic accent in the shower and continues as a wainscot throughout the bathroom providing a modern touch and compliment the classic marble floor. A crisp white double vanity furniture piece completes the space. The journey of the Yosemite project is one we will never forget. Not only were we given the opportunity to transform this beautiful home into a more functional and beautiful space, we were blessed with such amazing clients who were endlessly appreciative of TVL – and for that we are grateful!

For this couple, planning to move back to their rambler home in Arlington after living overseas for few years, they were ready to get rid of clutter, clean up their grown-up kids’ boxes, and transform their home into their dream home for their golden years. The old home included a box-like 8 feet x 10 feet kitchen, no family room, three small bedrooms and two back to back small bathrooms. The laundry room was located in a small dark space of the unfinished basement. This home is located in a cul-de-sac, on an uphill lot, of a very secluded neighborhood with lots of new homes just being built around them. The couple consulted an architectural firm in past but never were satisfied with the final plans. They approached Michael Nash Custom Kitchens hoping for fresh ideas. The backyard and side yard are wooded and the existing structure was too close to building restriction lines. We developed design plans and applied for special permits to achieve our client’s goals. The remodel includes a family room, sunroom, breakfast area, home office, large master bedroom suite, large walk-in closet, main level laundry room, lots of windows, front porch, back deck, and most important than all an elevator from lower to upper level given them and their close relative a necessary easier access. The new plan added extra dimensions to this rambler on all four sides. Starting from the front, we excavated to allow a first level entrance, storage, and elevator room. Building just above it, is a 12 feet x 30 feet covered porch with a leading brick staircase. A contemporary cedar rail with horizontal stainless steel cable rail system on both the front porch and the back deck sets off this project from any others in area. A new foyer with double frosted stainless-steel door was added which contains the elevator. The garage door was widened and a solid cedar door was installed to compliment the cedar siding. The left side of this rambler was excavated to allow a storage off the garage and extension of one of the old bedrooms to be converted to a large master bedroom suite, master bathroom suite and walk-in closet. We installed matching brick for a seam-less exterior look. The entire house was furnished with new Italian imported highly custom stainless-steel windows and doors. We removed several brick and block structure walls to put doors and floor to ceiling windows. A full walk in shower with barn style frameless glass doors, double vanities covered with selective stone, floor to ceiling porcelain tile make the master bathroom highly accessible. The other two bedrooms were reconfigured with new closets, wider doorways, new wood floors and wider windows. Just outside of the bedroom, a new laundry room closet was a major upgrade. A second HVAC system was added in the attic for all new areas. The back side of the master bedroom was covered with floor to ceiling windows and a door to step into a new deck covered in trex and cable railing. This addition provides a view to wooded area of the home. By excavating and leveling the backyard, we constructed a two story 15’x 40’ addition that provided the tall ceiling for the family room just adjacent to new deck, a breakfast area a few steps away from the remodeled kitchen. Upscale stainless-steel appliances, floor to ceiling white custom cabinetry and quartz counter top, and fun lighting improved this back section of the house with its increased lighting and available work space. Just below this addition, there is extra space for exercise and storage room. This room has a pair of sliding doors allowing more light inside. The right elevation has a trapezoid shape addition with floor to ceiling windows and space used as a sunroom/in-home office. Wide plank wood floors were installed throughout the main level for continuity. The hall bathroom was gutted and expanded to allow a new soaking tub and large vanity. The basement half bathroom was converted to a full bathroom, new flooring and lighting in the entire basement changed the purpose of the basement for entertainment and spending time with grandkids. Off white and soft tone were used inside and out as the color schemes to make this rambler spacious and illuminated. Final grade and landscaping, by adding a few trees, trimming the old cherry and walnut trees in backyard, saddling the yard, and a new concrete driveway and walkway made this home a unique and charming gem in the neighborhood.

This is another example of using a cable rail system to make a small space seem bigger. Because of square footage restrictions and & site conditions the front entry was limited to a small set of steps and overhang. The cable rail provided visual interest without diminishing the view of the house from the street.

This homeowner had their cabinets painted white a few years ago and they were already starting to see the wear. They were actually glad that they initially painted, because it gave them time to realize refacing was the way they wanted to update their cabinets. They wanted a different look to complement their existing quartz countertop. They selected the Shaker style door in the Swiss Elm Skye wood-grain finish. We also replaced all the drawers with new custom solid wood drawers with soft-close heavy-duty glides. Before, their corner cabinets were restricted due to the double doors only opening at 90 degrees. By replacing the hinges, they can now fully open the doors and access the cabinets. The homeowners are so happy with their refaced kitchen. They say it looks crisp and clean and more their style now.

Completed in 2011 this 4 BR, 3 1/2 bath custom home is situated on a very tight urban infill lot in Northern, Virginia. Our clients were relocating to the D.C. area from New England and wanted to retain some of the New England vernacular they were familiar with in their new home. Due to heavy zoning restrictions, stylistic CCR's and a large program of almost 7000 sf, our design response is a modern take on a traditional hipped 4-square. We intentionally kept the skin and form of the building simple in order to contain cost and allow for a higher level of interior finish. The main level employs our favorite Great Room scheme that merges cooking, eating and entertaining into one seamless space that flows onto an expansive deck overlooking the rear yard. The entry elevation welcomes guests with a traditional front porch and stone path that passes by a small rain garden. The basement accommodates a guest room, media room, exercise area, and full shop while the upper level orients 2 kid's bedrooms, a Jack-n-Jill bath and the master suite toward a territorial view of the rear yard. All of this program is housed beneath a hipped roof that minimizes the scale of the house while presenting a thoughtful appearance toward the street and neighbors.

BEFORE: A massive star pine (behind bottlebrush) dominates this garden. Between the shade and water restrictions, the owners realized the lawn was a lost cause. The existing flagstones did the job, but a safer, more attractive route to the front door would improve access and appearance. And the hard soil and sloping soil around the crown of the star pine made it impossible to bring in any horticultural interest.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living. Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected. Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives. We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings. Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed. Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home. The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply. What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful. Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces. To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next. The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

Our latest project, Fish Camp, on Longboat Key, FL. This home was designed around tight zoning restrictions while meeting the FEMA V-zone requirement. It is registered with LEED and is expected to be Platinum certified. It is rated EnergyStar v. 3.1 with a HERS index of 50. The design is a modern take on the Key West vernacular so as to keep with the neighboring historic homes in the area. Ryan Gamma Photography

Our latest project, Fish Camp, on Longboat Key, FL. This home was designed around tight zoning restrictions while meeting the FEMA V-zone requirement. It is registered with LEED and is expected to be Platinum certified. It is rated EnergyStar v. 3.1 with a HERS index of 50. The design is a modern take on the Key West vernacular so as to keep with the neighboring historic homes in the area. Ryan Gamma Photography

Welcome to St. Andrew's walk! This TOP floor LUXURY studio apartment boasts CHIC trendy finishing’s and is one of the most AFFORDABLE ways to enjoy all that the Bear Mountain RESORT lifestyle has to offer. Just steps to the golf course itself as well as the gym, spa, fine dining, casual cafe/bistros, nature walks, running, and biking trails. BEAR MOUNTAIN offers it all. Enjoy fantastic views of Mt Finlayson from your private extra-large expansive rare patio, which allows BBQs. This EXTENSIVE private space is covered and set up for outdoor living. The 4th floor also includes another shared deck for gatherings which is beautifully surrounded by greenery, serenity & seasonal displays of the mountainside. This location has city convenience that is only a stone's throw away from all amenities. The 14 1/2-foot soaring ceilings make this approx. 700 sq ft (indoor/outdoor combined) space bright, airy, and open. Some of the features in the unit include cherry wood flooring throughout, stainless steel appliances, an electric wall-mounted fireplace, and beautiful granite countertops. This trendy unit has a classic open NY LOFT STYLE layout that offers in-suite laundry, double patio doors, big picture windows, a built-in Murphy Wall Bed, a huge walk-in closet/utility/storage room. Also, you will have secure underground parking, extra communal storage, a bike lock-up, and another separate storage locker. There are no age or rental restrictions, and you can bring your pet. Whether you chose to fall in love and stay or hold it as an investment property. Currently rented for $1400 the month-to-month tenants are extremely flexible and may stay or move out depending on the buyer’s desire. This gorgeous west shore find is where the possibilities are endless, up incoming, and exciting!| Karen Love (250)-727-5868 | RE/MAX Island Properties & www.KarenLove.com |

The house is located in Conyers Farm, a residential development, known for its’ grand estates and polo fields. Although the site is just over 10 acres, due to wetlands and conservation areas only 3 acres adjacent to Upper Cross Road could be developed for the house. These restrictions, along with building setbacks led to the linear planning of the house. To maintain a larger back yard, the garage wing was ‘cranked’ towards the street. The bent wing hinged at the three-story turret, reinforces the rambling character and suggests a sense of enclosure around the entry drive court. Designed in the tradition of late nineteenth-century American country houses. The house has a variety of living spaces, each distinct in shape and orientation. Porches with Greek Doric columns, relaxed plan, juxtaposed masses and shingle-style exterior details all contribute to the elegant “country house” character.

The Cloud Villa is so named because of the grand central stair which connects the three floors of this 800m2 villa in Shanghai. It’s abstract cloud-like form celebrates fluid movement through space, while dividing the main entry from the main living space. As the main focal point of the villa, it optimistically reinforces domesticity as an act of unencumbered weightless living; in contrast to the restrictive bulk of the typical sprawling megalopolis in China. The cloud is an intimate form that only the occupants of the villa have the luxury of using on a daily basis. The main living space with its overscaled, nearly 8m high vaulted ceiling, gives the villa a sacrosanct quality. Contemporary in form, construction and materiality, the Cloud Villa’s stair is classical statement about the theater and intimacy of private and domestic life.