A 1970's Colorado Mountain A Frame gets a complete modern remodel by Trilogy Partners Photo by John Rath
Inspiration for a mid-sized rustic brown two-story mixed siding exterior home remodel in Austin

HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Lopez Outdoor Living Williamsburg, VA Mid Atlantic Enterprise, Inc. The main objective for this project was to turn this Disabled American Veteran’s useless, hilly backyard into a complete outdoor living destination. This meant created a functional place for the client’s needs while being an exciting place for his young family to play and entertain. A major challenge in this project was altering the terrain to suit the design plan. We had to clear-cut the entire backyard and remove over 3,000 cubic yards of earth. Severe drainage issues also had to be corrected before installing the hardscape. To accommodate the elevation changes of the property and to support the necessary ADA compliant ramp, we had to construct two walls. One wall serves as a freestanding and retaining wall specially constructed on a large concrete footer and reinforced with rebar and concrete. We built everything custom; a new deck and pergola to blend the home and hardscape. This included a fully functional outdoor kitchen to meet the entertaining requirements of the clients, a gunite pool & spa large enough to accommodate the client’s ever-growing family, two fire bowls and a fire pit to add the “wow” factor the clients sought. In addition, a shed was built to complement the home while providing much needed storage space. We installed a full landscape; which included five 25 ft Magnolia trees to provide instant privacy in place of the overgrown woody area that was removed. To provide safety at night, we completed the project with strategically placed landscape lighting.

Pondless Waterfall Pondless Waterfalls are simply a re-circulating waterfall and/or stream without the presence of a pond. You can enjoy the sight and sound of running water without the maintenance of a pond. The waterfall is undoubtedly the most beautiful and favored feature in a water garden. If space is lacking in your yard or you have safety concerns with a pond, go Pondless! The name basically explains it all. It’s a waterfall and stream, without the pond. So why would you want a waterfall without a pond? The truth is that a Pondless Waterfall isn’t for everyone, but it can be a great alternative for someone who isn’t quite sure if a pond is right for their family. Safety Because there is no pool of water, a Pondless Waterfall is a great option if you are concerned about safety issues associated with a traditional pond. Cost Cost can be a big factor when considering the type of pond you want to build. In most cases, the price of a Pondless waterfall will be less than a pond, because there is less labor involved, as well as less rock and materials. Operating costs are also less. Because you’re not dealing with an established ecosystem, it’s not necessary to run the pump 24/7. Space The small size of the Pondless Waterfall means you can build and enjoy a beautiful waterfall anywhere in your yard. Maintenance - Taking care of your Pondless Waterfall is easy. Filling the reservoir every few weeks to compensate for water loss because of evaporation is all that’s required. Flexibility Perhaps the best part of the Pondless Waterfall is the possibility for the future. If you change your mind later, wishing you’d build a pond, that’s ok! If you leave enough room around the base of the waterfall, it’s easy to add a pond onto a Pondless Waterfall. Complete System It might be difficult to imagine a waterfall and stream without a pond. Where does the water go? A Pondless Waterfall works much like a regular pond. The hole, deeper than a normal pond, is dug then lined with rock and gravel, and filled with water. The water is then circulated from beneath the rocks and gravel by a pump that sits on the bottom, inside a Snorkel Vault and Centipede Module. A pipe runs from there up to a BioFalls Filter and into an overflowing waterfall, where it falls back into the reservoir. Since the water level never pools above the level of the rock and gravel fill, it give the appearance of a waterfall without a pond, when in fact, the “pond” is there but not visible. The Pondless Waterfall has made many water-lovers who were previously unable to indulge in the sweet sounds of falling water, very happy. It’s a great alternative for those who are trying to get their feet wet, or looking to fit a little bit of paradise into their own backyard. In other words, when all else fails … go Pondless!

Comprehensive Pest Control Solutions for Your Peace of Mind Pests can quickly turn your living or working space into an uncomfortable and unhygienic environment. At Pest Control - skadedyr-kontroll.no, we offer reliable and effective pest control services to protect your property and ensure your well-being. Silverfish consuming poisonous bait/Photo skadedyrkontroll1 The skadedyr-kontroll.no Advantage Choosing the right pest control service can make all the difference. With our years of expertise and commitment to excellence, we provide:

• Tailored Solutions: Each pest problem is unique, and so are our solutions.
• Eco-Friendly Methods: We prioritize methods that are safe for your family, pets, and the environment.
• Expert Team: Our professionals are trained to handle all types of pest issues with precision and care.

Our Key Services Rodent Control Rodents can wreak havoc by damaging property and spreading diseases. Our comprehensive rodent control services ensure thorough removal and long-term prevention strategies to keep your property safe. Silverfish Treatment Silverfish are not just unsightly but can also damage valuable items. Learn more about our specialized silverfish control methods at Silverfish - skadedyr-kontroll.no/skjeggkre-alt-du-trenger-a-vite/. Droplet size/Photo Skadedyrkontroll1 Insect Management Insects such as ants, cockroaches, and wasps can disrupt your peace. Our targeted treatments eradicate these pests efficiently and prevent future infestations. Our Approach to Pest Management

1. Thorough Inspection: We identify the type and extent of the pest problem on your property.
2. Customized Plan: A detailed plan is crafted to address your specific pest issue.
3. Effective Execution: Using advanced tools and methods, we eliminate pests swiftly and safely.
4. Preventive Guidance: Our team provides tips and solutions to prevent pests from returning.

Why Regular Pest Control Matters Pest control is not just about elimination; it’s about prevention and maintaining a healthy environment. At skadedyr-kontroll.no, we empower our clients with knowledge and solutions to ensure long-term protection against pests. Placement of bait/Photo Skadedyrkontroll1 AS Get Started Today Don’t let pests compromise your comfort and safety. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, silverfish, or other pests, Pest Control - skadedyr-kontroll.no is your trusted partner for comprehensive pest management. Contact us now and take the first step toward a pest-free environment.

Cast Iron Cook Stove La Nordica "Suprema Cream" Manufactured in northern Italy these cook stoves feature superb design, durability, efficiency, safety, and quality. The primary function of these appliances is indoor cooking however they also provide a significant source of secondary heat for your home. Keeping in mind that all wood heating stoves are space heaters this stove is capable of heating an open concept area of approx. 25x30 with 10`ceiling. Nevertheless the stove should not be relied upon as a primary source of heat. However it can totally be relied on as primary source for cooking! This particular model is called "Suprema" and is available in 2 colors: anthrathite black and matt cream. The fire chamber is located on the left and provides heat for both the baking oven on the right and the cooking top above. Features include: External facing of enameled cast-iron Frame, plate and rings from cast-iron Enameled oven Wood drawer Dimensions : 38.5"x33.8"x26" Net weight : 490 lb Hearth opening size : 9.25"x8.85" Hearth size : 10.9"x12"x18.11" Oven size : 17.1"x16.5"x17" Chimney diameter : 15 cm (5.9") Hearth material: Cast Iron Heatable area: 8080 ft3 Nominal thermal power : 27000 BTU Adjustable primary air Adjustable secondary air Pre-adjusted tertiary air Efficiency : 77,8 % Hourly wood consumption : 5 lb/h

These homeowners approached Renovisions to remodel their master bath. With their kids off at college it was time to do something for themselves. They wanted an elegant upscale look with a spacious shower with glass enclosure, a high-end whirlpool bathtub and custom built in for towels. Their existing tub presented a safety issue when they opened & closed the windows which were located directly behind the tub. The new design includes a free standing tub/whirlpool with custom rounded and removable wood panels to access electrical and plumbing components. This allows a safe pass way around the tub as well as a more open feel. The adjacent shower boasts a generous space with an open style created by the use of 3/8” shower glass enclosure on 2 sides. Custom cubbies and corner seat were built into the Crema marfil marble tiles. 12″x24″ porcelain tiles were installed in a herringbone pattern providing a beautiful and unique appearance setting a neutral stage to showcase the burgundy cherry custom vanities with beaded detail and matching tower with Victorian glass. Crema Marfil marble countertops on the vanities and slab on tub featured ogee edges lending a real elegant feel to the room. The Piece de Resistance was the exquisite antique brass widespread faucets, hand held shower, shower head, matching antique brass accessories and cabinet hardware all decorated with Swarovski cut crystals.

HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Lopez Outdoor Living Williamsburg, VA Mid Atlantic Enterprise, Inc. The main objective for this project was to turn this Disabled American Veteran’s useless, hilly backyard into a complete outdoor living destination. This meant created a functional place for the client’s needs while being an exciting place for his young family to play and entertain. A major challenge in this project was altering the terrain to suit the design plan. We had to clear-cut the entire backyard and remove over 3,000 cubic yards of earth. Severe drainage issues also had to be corrected before installing the hardscape. To accommodate the elevation changes of the property and to support the necessary ADA compliant ramp, we had to construct two walls. One wall serves as a freestanding and retaining wall specially constructed on a large concrete footer and reinforced with rebar and concrete. We built everything custom; a new deck and pergola to blend the home and hardscape. This included a fully functional outdoor kitchen to meet the entertaining requirements of the clients, a gunite pool & spa large enough to accommodate the client’s ever-growing family, two fire bowls and a fire pit to add the “wow” factor the clients sought. In addition, a shed was built to complement the home while providing much needed storage space. We installed a full landscape; which included five 25 ft Magnolia trees to provide instant privacy in place of the overgrown woody area that was removed. To provide safety at night, we completed the project with strategically placed landscape lighting.

Comprehensive Pest Control Solutions for Your Peace of Mind Pests can quickly turn your living or working space into an uncomfortable and unhygienic environment. At Pest Control - skadedyr-kontroll.no, we offer reliable and effective pest control services to protect your property and ensure your well-being. Silverfish consuming poisonous bait/Photo skadedyrkontroll1 The skadedyr-kontroll.no Advantage Choosing the right pest control service can make all the difference. With our years of expertise and commitment to excellence, we provide: Tailored Solutions: Each pest problem is unique, and so are our solutions. Eco-Friendly Methods: We prioritize methods that are safe for your family, pets, and the environment. Expert Team: Our professionals are trained to handle all types of pest issues with precision and care. Our Key Services Rodent Control Rodents can wreak havoc by damaging property and spreading diseases. Our comprehensive rodent control services ensure thorough removal and long-term prevention strategies to keep your property safe. Silverfish Treatment Silverfish are not just unsightly but can also damage valuable items. Learn more about our specialized silverfish control methods at Silverfish - skadedyr-kontroll.no/skjeggkre-alt-du-trenger-a-vite/. Droplet size/Photo Skadedyrkontroll1 Insect Management Insects such as ants, cockroaches, and wasps can disrupt your peace. Our targeted treatments eradicate these pests efficiently and prevent future infestations. Our Approach to Pest Management Thorough Inspection: We identify the type and extent of the pest problem on your property. Customized Plan: A detailed plan is crafted to address your specific pest issue. Effective Execution: Using advanced tools and methods, we eliminate pests swiftly and safely. Preventive Guidance: Our team provides tips and solutions to prevent pests from returning. Why Regular Pest Control Matters Pest control is not just about elimination; it’s about prevention and maintaining a healthy environment. At skadedyr-kontroll.no, we empower our clients with knowledge and solutions to ensure long-term protection against pests. Placement of bait/Photo Skadedyrkontroll1 AS Get Started Today Don’t let pests compromise your comfort and safety. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, silverfish, or other pests, Pest Control - skadedyr-kontroll.no is your trusted partner for comprehensive pest management. Contact us now and take the first step toward a pest-free environment.

These homeowners approached Renovisions to remodel their master bath. With their kids off at college it was time to do something for themselves. They wanted an elegant upscale look with a spacious shower with glass enclosure, a high-end whirlpool bathtub and custom built in for towels. Their existing tub presented a safety issue when they opened & closed the windows which were located directly behind the tub. The new design includes a free standing tub/whirlpool with custom rounded and removable wood panels to access electrical and plumbing components. This allows a safe pass way around the tub as well as a more open feel. The adjacent shower boasts a generous space with an open style created by the use of 3/8” shower glass enclosure on 2 sides. Custom cubbies and corner seat were built into the Crema marfil marble tiles. 12″x24″ porcelain tiles were installed in a herringbone pattern providing a beautiful and unique appearance setting a neutral stage to showcase the burgundy cherry custom vanities with beaded detail and matching tower with Victorian glass. Crema Marfil marble countertops on the vanities and slab on tub featured ogee edges lending a real elegant feel to the room. The Piece de Resistance was the exquisite antique brass widespread faucets, hand held shower, shower head, matching antique brass accessories and cabinet hardware all decorated with Swarovski cut crystals.

  Phoenix's food scene is vibrant and thriving, but also one of the most closely watched in the country. Health inspectors in Maricopa County are strict, and customers expect spotless dining spaces.  To stay competitive, restaurant owners and food vendors must stay on top of evolving health codes, sanitation protocols, and food safety benchmarks. That starts with a firm grip on restaurant cleaning safety standards. Ignoring sanitation rules risks more than bad reviews. It invites citations, customer complaints, and operational shutdowns. Whether you're operating a food truck or a restaurant, following these Phoenix cleaning standards helps you stay compliant, pass health inspections, and build customer trust. Importance of a Clean Phoenix Restaurant that Follows Food Health and Safety Standards The restaurant industry in Phoenix operates under strict oversight. The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department conducts regular inspections, and violations can result in fines or closures. In this climate, restaurant cleaning is not just a hygiene standard. It is a business-critical measure. Proper food handling and establishment cleaning protocols reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, control pests, protect equipment, and keep your staff safe. Inconsistent practices, on the other hand, can quickly become liabilities. Start With the Food Code Phoenix food vendors must comply with the 2017 FDA Food Code as adopted by Maricopa County. This includes rules on:

• Sanitizing food-contact surfaces after each use
• Maintaining proper water temperatures for dishwashing
• Cleaning restrooms frequently and keeping them stocked
• Storing cleaning chemicals away from prep areas

Each violation tier, from Priority to Core, has consequences. Priority violations (like improper sanitization) trigger repeat inspections and possible permit suspensions. Establish a Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Cleaning Routine for Phoenix Restaurants and Commercial Kitchens High-performing food vendors operate with cleaning checklists categorized by frequency:

• Daily: Wipe prep tables, mop floors, clean grills, sanitize cutting boards
• Weekly: Deep clean kitchen hoods, polish cooking equipment, disinfect drains
• Monthly: Check pest control measures, clean freezer coils, and inspect HVAC filters

Your routines should align with the facility’s risk level and menu complexity. A meat-heavy kitchen faces a higher risk of contamination than a coffee cart. Build your cleaning schedule accordingly. Train Staff on Cleaning Protocols Staff must be trained to clean as effectively as they cook and do food preparation. This includes:

• Using the right sanitizers and PPE
• Logging cleaning times and who performed the task
• Identifying signs of mold, grease buildup, or rodent activity
• Conducting thorough surface cleaning to ensure all food-contact surfaces are sanitized regularly

Training is not one-time. Update it quarterly and post protocols in shared areas. Use EPA-Approved  Cleaning Products for Arizona Food Business Phoenix regulations call for cleaning products that meet EPA standards. These should be:

• Food-safe and non-corrosive
• Effective against norovirus, salmonella, and E. coli
• Clearly labeled and stored in original containers

Over-the-counter products won’t always meet the grade. Confirm that all cleaning products meet EPA standards by checking them against the official List N for food-contact disinfectants. Maintain Clean Air and Water Systems Your HVAC system can be a hidden contamination source. Dirty filters affect air quality and can lead to dust settling on surfaces. Water lines used in ice machines and beverage dispensers must also be sanitized. Schedule routine inspections with licensed technicians and keep maintenance logs. Phoenix’s dry climate compounds dust issues, making this step even more essential. Waste Management Is Part of Cleaning Waste bins should be emptied multiple times a day and sanitized regularly. Grease traps, in particular, require strict oversight. Phoenix plumbing codes demand regular removal of grease buildup to prevent clogs and contamination. Document waste pickup schedules and trap cleanings to show inspectors you take this seriously. Be Pest-Prevention Oriented Phoenix’s warm climate creates a year-round pest risk. From roaches to rodents, pest sightings during inspections can instantly tank your sanitation score. To avoid this:

• Seal gaps around doors and pipes
• Store dry goods in sealed, elevated containers
• Keep outdoor waste bins locked and distanced from entry points

Implement a pest control plan that follows local best practices. Proactive prevention will save your operation from reputational damage. Comply With Local Licensing and Inspections Food establishments and vendors must display current food permits and be ready for unannounced inspections. In Phoenix, inspectors from Maricopa County use a digital scoring system, and all inspection results are publicly available online. That means your customers can see your cleaning track record before ever placing an order. If you want to access your past inspection scores or understand local codes better, refer to the official Maricopa County site. The Role of Digital Logs and Compliance Software Many Phoenix-based vendors now use cleaning log apps or digital food safety checklists. These tools:

• Record cleaning completion in real time
• Alert managers when tasks are missed
• Keep a historical record for inspections

Adopting digital systems minimizes human error and provides credibility when auditors review your procedures. Monitor Cleaning Performance Through Internal Audits Routine cleaning is only effective when verified. Conduct regular internal audits to identify missed steps, correct improper practices, and maintain accountability. Assign a team member to perform weekly sanitation checks using a standardized checklist. Focus on key areas like surface residue, properly labeled chemicals, and temperature logs. Document each audit and review the results with your team during pre-shift meetings. This ensures your staff stays inspection-ready and fosters a culture of vigilance. In Phoenix’s competitive food market, consistent self-checks help prevent issues before inspectors arrive. When to Hire Restaurant Cleaning Services in Phoenix Some cleaning jobs go beyond what your in-house team can handle. Tasks like vent hood cleaning, ceiling dusting, or chemical deep cleaning are best left to commercial cleaning services. Choose a cleaning vendor who:

• Is certified and understands the Arizona food codes
• Provides documented service reports
• Offers customized cleaning plans
• Offers flexible scheduling around your operating hours

Outsourcing specialized cleaning ensures your facility stays compliant without interrupting your business flow. Cleaning Practices for Food Prep Areas In Phoenix, with its dry climate and year-round warmth, food prep areas are especially vulnerable to contamination. To comply with restaurant cleaning safety standards, these areas require focused cleaning efforts to prevent cross-contamination and maintain food safety. Here’s how to integrate cleaning into your food prep protocols:

• Cross-contamination prevention: Regularly clean food prep surfaces and tools, and use separate equipment for raw meats, vegetables, and ready-to-eat foods. Proper cleaning prevents any contact with food that could lead to cross-contamination and affects food quality.
• Temperature monitoring: While not directly related to cleaning, maintaining proper food temperature is essential. Hot foods should be stored above 140°F, and cold foods below 40°F. Regularly monitor temperatures and clean temperature gauges to ensure accuracy.
• Proper storage: Use clean storage containers and shelving for food storage, keeping items off the floor. Ensure all food is sealed and labeled to avoid contamination risks and comply with food safety standards.

Food Safety Starts With What Customers Can’t See In Phoenix's food service industry, cleanliness is essential to your success. But cleanliness goes deeper than shiny tables and spotless floors. It’s the behind-the-scenes work: the sanitizing, logging, and double-checking that keep your kitchen safe and your customers confident. When you take both sides seriously, your business doesn’t just stay open; it thrives. Meta Title: Restaurant Cleaning Safety Standards for Phoenix Food Vendors Meta Description: Explore Phoenix-specific restaurant cleaning safety standards so your food business stays compliant, avoids fines, passes inspections, and earns customer trust.  

This dark, dreary kitchen was large, but not being used well. The family of 7 had outgrown the limited storage and experienced traffic bottlenecks when in the kitchen together. A bright, cheerful and more functional kitchen was desired, as well as a new pantry space. We gutted the kitchen and closed off the landing through the door to the garage to create a new pantry. A frosted glass pocket door eliminates door swing issues. In the pantry, a small access door opens to the garage so groceries can be loaded easily. Grey wood-look tile was laid everywhere. We replaced the small window and added a 6’x4’ window, instantly adding tons of natural light. A modern motorized sheer roller shade helps control early morning glare. Three free-floating shelves are to the right of the window for favorite décor and collectables. White, ceiling-height cabinets surround the room. The full-overlay doors keep the look seamless. Double dishwashers, double ovens and a double refrigerator are essentials for this busy, large family. An induction cooktop was chosen for energy efficiency, child safety, and reliability in cooking. An appliance garage and a mixer lift house the much-used small appliances. An ice maker and beverage center were added to the side wall cabinet bank. The microwave and TV are hidden but have easy access. The inspiration for the room was an exclusive glass mosaic tile. The large island is a glossy classic blue. White quartz countertops feature small flecks of silver. Plus, the stainless metal accent was even added to the toe kick! Upper cabinet, under-cabinet and pendant ambient lighting, all on dimmers, was added and every light (even ceiling lights) is LED for energy efficiency. White-on-white modern counter stools are easy to clean. Plus, throughout the room, strategically placed USB outlets give tidy charging options.

This dark, dreary kitchen was large, but not being used well. The family of 7 had outgrown the limited storage and experienced traffic bottlenecks when in the kitchen together. A bright, cheerful and more functional kitchen was desired, as well as a new pantry space. We gutted the kitchen and closed off the landing through the door to the garage to create a new pantry. A frosted glass pocket door eliminates door swing issues. In the pantry, a small access door opens to the garage so groceries can be loaded easily. Grey wood-look tile was laid everywhere. We replaced the small window and added a 6’x4’ window, instantly adding tons of natural light. A modern motorized sheer roller shade helps control early morning glare. Three free-floating shelves are to the right of the window for favorite décor and collectables. White, ceiling-height cabinets surround the room. The full-overlay doors keep the look seamless. Double dishwashers, double ovens and a double refrigerator are essentials for this busy, large family. An induction cooktop was chosen for energy efficiency, child safety, and reliability in cooking. An appliance garage and a mixer lift house the much-used small appliances. An ice maker and beverage center were added to the side wall cabinet bank. The microwave and TV are hidden but have easy access. The inspiration for the room was an exclusive glass mosaic tile. The large island is a glossy classic blue. White quartz countertops feature small flecks of silver. Plus, the stainless metal accent was even added to the toe kick! Upper cabinet, under-cabinet and pendant ambient lighting, all on dimmers, was added and every light (even ceiling lights) is LED for energy efficiency. White-on-white modern counter stools are easy to clean. Plus, throughout the room, strategically placed USB outlets give tidy charging options.

We designed and constructed the master bathroom in this Fulton Award winning custom home, built by Merv Miller Builder LLC. The bathroom won Best Bath in it's category and the home was awarded Best Single Family Home in the Lancaster BIA's Parade of Homes, 2014. We worked with kitchen and bath designer, Pat Caulfied, for this project and were thrilled with the end result. The home craftsman style but the open concept and use of lighter and painted wood finishes instead of traditional dark woods makes the house feel light and spacious. Universal Design makes things safer, easier, and more convenient for everyone. This bath was designed using the principles of universal design, which is the term used for a space can be used by the widest range of people possible. Everyone faces difficulties at any given point in their lives – from a sprained ankle to a serious injury – universal design addresses the needs of people using the space for the longevity of the space. At Re Bath & More, we feel that a universal space can be beautiful as well as functional. One of the key points we incorporated into this bath was to design a space for all the senses. As we age, our vision yellows and depth perception can become an issue. By using a high contrast of light colored flooring, darker cabinets and lighter countertops there is a clear definition of space. The floor is also textured for safety in walking on a wet area and the long vanity can provide support when walking through the space.

These homeowners approached Renovisions to remodel their master bath. With their kids off at college it was time to do something for themselves. They wanted an elegant upscale look with a spacious shower with glass enclosure, a high-end whirlpool bathtub and custom built in for towels. Their existing tub presented a safety issue when they opened & closed the windows which were located directly behind the tub. The new design includes a free standing tub/whirlpool with custom rounded and removable wood panels to access electrical and plumbing components. This allows a safe pass way around the tub as well as a more open feel. The adjacent shower boasts a generous space with an open style created by the use of 3/8” shower glass enclosure on 2 sides. Custom cubbies and corner seat were built into the Crema marfil marble tiles. 12″x24″ porcelain tiles were installed in a herringbone pattern providing a beautiful and unique appearance setting a neutral stage to showcase the burgundy cherry custom vanities with beaded detail and matching tower with Victorian glass. Crema Marfil marble countertops on the vanities and slab on tub featured ogee edges lending a real elegant feel to the room. The Piece de Resistance was the exquisite antique brass widespread faucets, hand held shower, shower head, matching antique brass accessories and cabinet hardware all decorated with Swarovski cut crystals.

This dark, dreary kitchen was large, but not being used well. The family of 7 had outgrown the limited storage and experienced traffic bottlenecks when in the kitchen together. A bright, cheerful and more functional kitchen was desired, as well as a new pantry space. We gutted the kitchen and closed off the landing through the door to the garage to create a new pantry. A frosted glass pocket door eliminates door swing issues. In the pantry, a small access door opens to the garage so groceries can be loaded easily. Grey wood-look tile was laid everywhere. We replaced the small window and added a 6’x4’ window, instantly adding tons of natural light. A modern motorized sheer roller shade helps control early morning glare. Three free-floating shelves are to the right of the window for favorite décor and collectables. White, ceiling-height cabinets surround the room. The full-overlay doors keep the look seamless. Double dishwashers, double ovens and a double refrigerator are essentials for this busy, large family. An induction cooktop was chosen for energy efficiency, child safety, and reliability in cooking. An appliance garage and a mixer lift house the much-used small appliances. An ice maker and beverage center were added to the side wall cabinet bank. The microwave and TV are hidden but have easy access. The inspiration for the room was an exclusive glass mosaic tile. The large island is a glossy classic blue. White quartz countertops feature small flecks of silver. Plus, the stainless metal accent was even added to the toe kick! Upper cabinet, under-cabinet and pendant ambient lighting, all on dimmers, was added and every light (even ceiling lights) is LED for energy efficiency. White-on-white modern counter stools are easy to clean. Plus, throughout the room, strategically placed USB outlets give tidy charging options.

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.

Michelle AM Dolce Vita, Scandinavian cottage style, Nordic cottage style, Scandinavian living room, modern rustic living room, Rove Concepts Norman counter stools, Florence Knoll style tufted sofa, floating TV cabinet, Ikea Stockholm coffee table bench, Tonic living pillow, faux fiddle leaf fig tree in a basket, salt and pepper cowhide rug, modern rustic living room, pink kilim pillow, African mudcloth pillow, Structure chair, hygge home

Let’s be honest. Chimney cleaning probably isn’t the first thing on your spring to-do list. But if you used your fireplace this past winter, scheduling a chimney sweep before warm weather arrives is one of the best home maintenance decisions you can make. Here’s why Spring is the best time to schedule your chimney cleaning. Your Chimney Just Worked Hard All Winter It’s tired, simply burnt out! Every time you burned wood this season, creosote, also known as soot, was clinging to the inner walls of your chimney. It’s a natural byproduct of burning wood, but it’s also highly flammable and the leading cause of chimney fires. The longer it sits, the more it builds up. A professional chimney sweep, such as Superior Chimney, takes a look at your chimney flue liner, damper, and firebox — clearing it all out before that creosote becomes a serious issue. Spring is the Best Time to Take Care of the Chimney Fall is when everyone panics. The temperature drops, and the fireplace suddenly seems appealing. By scheduling now, in spring, you get to clean your chimney now so your house doesn’t smell from the creosote left in your fireplace and chimney Superior Chimney includes a FREE 14-Point Certified Written Inspection with photo documentation sent straight to your email with every chimney sweep we do. That’s the kind of full-service you want, and you’re more likely to get it when things aren’t hectic. Catch Problems Before They Get Expensive Here’s something homeowners don’t regularly remember: a chimney sweep isn’t just about cleaning. It’s about integrity. When a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep technician pushes rods and brushes through your chimney system, if pieces of fire clay tile, tile joints, or brick start falling, that tells you exactly where a structural issue exists. That’s critical information for fireworthy, continued use of your fireplace. Avoid Any Obstructions Obstruction-free chimney systems is another key reason for a spring chimney sweep. Birds, squirrels, and raccoons love a quiet chimney during the warmer (and definitely the cold) months. Nesting, debris, and feces can create blockages, and a simple cleaning alone won’t remove most of them. Knowing what’s going on inside your chimney before critters move in is a whole lot easier than dealing with it in October. It’s the National Safety Standard — Not Just a Suggestion The NFPA 211, CSIA, NCSG, and IRC all recommend annual chimney inspections and cleanings for both wood burning and gas fireplaces. It’s not optional; it’s a safety standard. As the CSIA puts it simply: clean chimneys don’t catch fire. Well put CSIA. Did You Know? All of Superior Chimney’s technicians are certified by the CSIA, so you know you’re getting expertise you can trust. Then we take the extra step of taking pictures so you can ‘see’ exactly what’s going on with the chimney. Everything looks good from the ground. We’ll email the pictures to you so you can keep your own records of what we all saw during the last visit. Now you know why spring is the best time to schedule your chimney cleaning. Contact us or give us a call today at 877-244-6349 to get started.

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.