Example of a mid-sized classic enclosed carpeted family room design in Cleveland with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Penza Bailey Architects was contacted to update the main house to suit the next generation of owners, and also expand and renovate the guest apartment. The renovations included a new mudroom and playroom to accommodate the couple and their three very active boys, creating workstations for the boys’ various activities, and renovating several bathrooms. The awkwardly tall vaulted ceilings in the existing great room and dining room were scaled down with lowered tray ceilings, and a new fireplace focal point wall was incorporated in the great room. In addition to the renovations to the focal point of the home, the Owner’s pride and joy includes the new billiard room, transformed from an underutilized living room. The main feature is a full wall of custom cabinetry that hides an electronically secure liquor display that rises out of the cabinet at the push of an iPhone button. In an unexpected request, a new grilling area was designed to accommodate the owner’s gas grill, charcoal grill and smoker for more cooking and entertaining options. This home is definitely ready to accommodate a new generation of hosting social gatherings. Mitch Allen Photography

Penza Bailey Architects was contacted to update the main house to suit the next generation of owners, and also expand and renovate the guest apartment. The renovations included a new mudroom and playroom to accommodate the couple and their three very active boys, creating workstations for the boys’ various activities, and renovating several bathrooms. The awkwardly tall vaulted ceilings in the existing great room and dining room were scaled down with lowered tray ceilings, and a new fireplace focal point wall was incorporated in the great room. In addition to the renovations to the focal point of the home, the Owner’s pride and joy includes the new billiard room, transformed from an underutilized living room. The main feature is a full wall of custom cabinetry that hides an electronically secure liquor display that rises out of the cabinet at the push of an iPhone button. In an unexpected request, a new grilling area was designed to accommodate the owner’s gas grill, charcoal grill and smoker for more cooking and entertaining options. This home is definitely ready to accommodate a new generation of hosting social gatherings. Mitch Allen Photography

This home was themed to have an old world feel to it. In order to achieve the desired look, the wrought iron steel needed to be hand hammered, twisted and bent. The rivets match throughout the interior and exterior of the home, to bring each piece together. The handrail was built to look like it was riveted together and was installed prior to the stone to conceal the attachment points. The retaining wall rail was welded to appear as one solid piece of metal bent into a U shape. All of the door hinges, handles and knockers match in one way or another. They were hand hammered and forged to accent the beauty of the wood. The iron really brought the great room together. Starting with the five foot tall fireplace doors, the hand made branch work, leaves and handles make it one of a kind. The massive seven and a half foot diameter chandelier that includes 12 large, ten inch candles fills the ceiling with a wrought iron work of art. Lastly, the Juliet balcony with its curved and riveted design, gives this room the finishing touch. For their privacy and security we installed an electronic gate system at the entrance to the property. All in all, the combination of steel, rock and wood; truly brings out the old world feel.

Penza Bailey Architects was contacted to update the main house to suit the next generation of owners, and also expand and renovate the guest apartment. The renovations included a new mudroom and playroom to accommodate the couple and their three very active boys, creating workstations for the boys’ various activities, and renovating several bathrooms. The awkwardly tall vaulted ceilings in the existing great room and dining room were scaled down with lowered tray ceilings, and a new fireplace focal point wall was incorporated in the great room. In addition to the renovations to the focal point of the home, the Owner’s pride and joy includes the new billiard room, transformed from an underutilized living room. The main feature is a full wall of custom cabinetry that hides an electronically secure liquor display that rises out of the cabinet at the push of an iPhone button. In an unexpected request, a new grilling area was designed to accommodate the owner’s gas grill, charcoal grill and smoker for more cooking and entertaining options. This home is definitely ready to accommodate a new generation of hosting social gatherings. Mitch Allen Photography

Penza Bailey Architects was contacted to update the main house to suit the next generation of owners, and also expand and renovate the guest apartment. The renovations included a new mudroom and playroom to accommodate the couple and their three very active boys, creating workstations for the boys’ various activities, and renovating several bathrooms. The awkwardly tall vaulted ceilings in the existing great room and dining room were scaled down with lowered tray ceilings, and a new fireplace focal point wall was incorporated in the great room. In addition to the renovations to the focal point of the home, the Owner’s pride and joy includes the new billiard room, transformed from an underutilized living room. The main feature is a full wall of custom cabinetry that hides an electronically secure liquor display that rises out of the cabinet at the push of an iPhone button. In an unexpected request, a new grilling area was designed to accommodate the owner’s gas grill, charcoal grill and smoker for more cooking and entertaining options. This home is definitely ready to accommodate a new generation of hosting social gatherings. Mitch Allen Photography

This home was themed to have an old world feel to it. In order to achieve the desired look, the wrought iron steel needed to be hand hammered, twisted and bent. The rivets match throughout the interior and exterior of the home, to bring each piece together. The handrail was built to look like it was riveted together and was installed prior to the stone to conceal the attachment points. The retaining wall rail was welded to appear as one solid piece of metal bent into a U shape. All of the door hinges, handles and knockers match in one way or another. They were hand hammered and forged to accent the beauty of the wood. The iron really brought the great room together. Starting with the five foot tall fireplace doors, the hand made branch work, leaves and handles make it one of a kind. The massive seven and a half foot diameter chandelier that includes 12 large, ten inch candles fills the ceiling with a wrought iron work of art. Lastly, the Juliet balcony with its curved and riveted design, gives this room the finishing touch. For their privacy and security we installed an electronic gate system at the entrance to the property. All in all, the combination of steel, rock and wood; truly brings out the old world feel.

Large trendy enclosed dark wood floor game room photo in Cleveland with brown walls, a standard fireplace, a brick fireplace and a media wall

This home was themed to have an old world feel to it. In order to achieve the desired look, the wrought iron steel needed to be hand hammered, twisted and bent. The rivets match throughout the interior and exterior of the home, to bring each piece together. The handrail was built to look like it was riveted together and was installed prior to the stone to conceal the attachment points. The retaining wall rail was welded to appear as one solid piece of metal bent into a U shape. All of the door hinges, handles and knockers match in one way or another. They were hand hammered and forged to accent the beauty of the wood. The iron really brought the great room together. Starting with the five foot tall fireplace doors, the hand made branch work, leaves and handles make it one of a kind. The massive seven and a half foot diameter chandelier that includes 12 large, ten inch candles fills the ceiling with a wrought iron work of art. Lastly, the Juliet balcony with its curved and riveted design, gives this room the finishing touch. For their privacy and security we installed an electronic gate system at the entrance to the property. All in all, the combination of steel, rock and wood; truly brings out the old world feel.

Gorgeous master bath with dramatic retro "wave" tile. Peak Photography
Example of a 1950s bathroom design in Los Angeles

This custom-crafted industrial console combines rugged mobility with premium mixed-material design. Built on a heavy-duty dark welded steel skeleton frame and set on durable locking casters, the unit is easily positioned to suit any space. It is crowned with a rich, solid wood countertop and features matching solid wood side panels that introduce an organic warmth to the strong metal architecture. The highly functional storage layout centers around an open shelving bay positioned directly above a solid wood drawer. This central section is flanked by two large cabinet compartments, each secured by custom doors featuring industrial expanded metal mesh inserts. These mesh panels offer bold visual texture while providing excellent airflow for electronics. Every door and drawer front is meticulously encased in a custom-welded steel frame and fitted with sleek dark hardware and prominent exterior barrel hinges, emphasizing the premium craftsmanship of this versatile piece.

This standout custom-fabricated media console seamlessly integrates the warmth of a modern electric fireplace with the rugged, heavy-duty aesthetic of industrial metalwork. Built upon a robust dark steel skeleton frame, the piece is finished with a stunning solid wood countertop and matching solid wood side panels, providing a rich, organic contrast to the dark metal. Designed as the ultimate living room centerpiece, the unit features an expansive, open horizontal shelving bay across the top—ideal for housing a soundbar, media players, or gaming consoles. The focal point is the built-in electric fireplace insert, flanked by two highly functional storage cabinets. These side compartments are secured by custom cabinet doors featuring industrial expanded metal mesh inserts heavily encased in welded steel frames. This mesh design not only adds raw visual texture but also allows for excellent airflow and remote control functionality for any housed electronics.

Angle Eye Photography
Example of a country front door design in Philadelphia with a white front door

This standout custom-fabricated media console seamlessly integrates the warmth of a modern electric fireplace with the rugged, heavy-duty aesthetic of industrial metalwork. Built upon a robust dark steel skeleton frame, the piece is finished with a stunning solid wood countertop and matching solid wood side panels, providing a rich, organic contrast to the dark metal. Designed as the ultimate living room centerpiece, the unit features an expansive, open horizontal shelving bay across the top—ideal for housing a soundbar, media players, or gaming consoles. The focal point is the built-in electric fireplace insert, flanked by two highly functional storage cabinets. These side compartments are secured by custom cabinet doors featuring industrial expanded metal mesh inserts heavily encased in welded steel frames. This mesh design not only adds raw visual texture but also allows for excellent airflow and remote control functionality for any housed electronics.

THEME The theme in this space is defined by the design and flow of the rest of this beautiful contemporary home. They needed the space to blend with the home while still providing the youngest family members with all the enjoyment of a dedicated play room. FOCUS The focus of this space changes with the configuration of the modular pieces around the room. One configuration could put focus on the television for movie night, another could create a stage for a musical performance, while another could close off the kids play area all together keeping the focus on adult conversation. Every configuration provides focus on the activity or plans for that moment. STORAGE Each of the modular pieces includes multiple storage options. The multimedia section ensures that all electronic equipment and remote devices have a dedicated home no matter where the section is placed. The large dedicated storage unit provides open blocks that can be filled with baskets of toys or books while creating the perfect wall in any configuration. The magnetic section allows for display of artwork or calendars while the lower box provides closed storage and a cushioned seating area. GROWTH These modular pieces will always be a useful and functional addition to this space providing the family with endless configuration options ensuring that the space will mature with the family. SAFETY Safety is always a concern and modular pieces require added attention to stability and security to ensure that they will provide the desired flexible functionality along with the safety of built in elements. Custom made brackets lock the sections together at multiple points to keep them linked once placed and the rolling castors under each section also lock into place to ensure that they will not continue to move across the floor.

Door #10 FP3190 Flat 3 Panel Interior Door with Farmhouse Sticking Solid Poplar stiles and rails MDF panels Painted White 1 x 4 door casing 1 x 6 baseboard Bravura 336B door knob Call us for a quote on your door project 419-684-9582 Visit https://www.door.cc

4 Meadow Green Court, Wichita Falls, TX FEATURED HOME IN THE PARADE OF HOMES. 4885 Total SF Under Roof 3500 sq. ft. Living Area ½ Acre, Cul-de-Sac location Two story, 4 Bedroom, 3 ½ Baths, Study, Formal Dining Room & Bonus Room Two, two-car Garages and Large Rear Patio (Master bedroom, Study & 4th bedroom all located on first floor) Amenities Include: • Kitchen • Stainless Wolf, Sub-Zero & Scottsman Appliances: o 36" Gas cook top & range; cast iron grates and sealed burners o Energy Star qualified dishwasher, with purge filtration system o 1200 watt Microwave Oven o 15" Scottsman ice maker o 36" Sub-Zero Counter depth Refrigerator • Large, Open design, with prep island and floating sink island • Quartz countertops. • 42" high Knotty Alder custom cabinets. • Under cabinet lighting • Oversized Breakfast area with large windows • Great Room, 19' 6" x 17' with wood burning fireplace and gas starter. • Great Room wired for surround sound. • Formal Dining Room with large picture window. • Master Bedroom, 16' x 17' with double layered crown molding. • Master Bath has 60" whirlpool tub & 4' x 6' shower o Quartz counter top, double sinks and framed mirrors o Walk in master closet with lots of shelving & rods • Study / Office has coffered wood beam ceiling. • Bonus Room upstairs, 15' x 21' • Laundry room includes sink, cabinets and bench seating. • Rear Patio, 18" 6" x 14' 4" includes built-in roll top, stainless Grill. • Rinnai Tank-less high capacity hot water system. • Two, Two-car Garages (4 stalls) with twin door openers & insulated doors. Expanded Driveway. • Foam wall and sub-floor insulation. • Outdoor roll-top Grill. • Radiant barrier roof decking to reduce attic heat • Vapor barrier house wrap diminishes moisture accessibility and drafts • Low E tilt out windows reduce radiant heat and harmful UV rays • 14 Seer, high efficient, HVAC unit with zone controls. Natural gas heater and electronic thermostat. • Security System on all exterior doors and operating windows. • Landscaping includes Bermuda grass, automatic sprinklers, Oak trees, shrubs, and 6' wood privacy fence with concrete curbing. • On site Water well; • Price $497000.

THEME The theme in this space is defined by the design and flow of the rest of this beautiful contemporary home. They needed the space to blend with the home while still providing the youngest family members with all the enjoyment of a dedicated play room. FOCUS The focus of this space changes with the configuration of the modular pieces around the room. One configuration could put focus on the television for movie night, another could create a stage for a musical performance, while another could close off the kids play area all together keeping the focus on adult conversation. Every configuration provides focus on the activity or plans for that moment. STORAGE Each of the modular pieces includes multiple storage options. The multimedia section ensures that all electronic equipment and remote devices have a dedicated home no matter where the section is placed. The large dedicated storage unit provides open blocks that can be filled with baskets of toys or books while creating the perfect wall in any configuration. The magnetic section allows for display of artwork or calendars while the lower box provides closed storage and a cushioned seating area. GROWTH These modular pieces will always be a useful and functional addition to this space providing the family with endless configuration options ensuring that the space will mature with the family. SAFETY Safety is always a concern and modular pieces require added attention to stability and security to ensure that they will provide the desired flexible functionality along with the safety of built in elements. Custom made brackets lock the sections together at multiple points to keep them linked once placed and the rolling castors under each section also lock into place to ensure that they will not continue to move across the floor.

This article is posted here with the consent of the author. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, view, or opinion of Crestron Electronics, Inc., or of any of its employees. Crestron Electronics is not responsible for, and does not verify the accuracy of, any of the information contained in this article. By Jeff Singer The “smart” revolution began several years ago with smartphones (a.k.a phones) and has extended in recent years to thermostats, doorbells, alarm systems, and kitchen appliances. Smart devices are so ubiquitous that the term “smart” is overused to the point that it is almost meaningless. Companies are eager to jump on the bandwagon and claim their products are “smart,” and consumers proudly claim they have a smart home because they have lighting control. Misconceptions about smart homes are prevalent and create confusion in the marketplace. This can have deleterious effects on businesses and underserve consumers. Here are seven of the most popular misconceptions about smart homes: 1. Apps are smart Apps are convenient and easy to use. Yes, it seems there’s an app for everything. People expect to be able to download an app and do just about anything. App developers and many companies do not disavow consumers of this myth. On the contrary, they promote this idea with carefully worded descriptions. The promise of having the world at your fingertips for $1.99 is very enticing. Although it sounds too good to be true, it is also too good to pass up for many people. This leads to undervaluing home control and disappointment when the apps don’t work, which undermines confidence in our industry. The fact is that apps are not smart. They do not control anything. They must connect to and communicate with a control system or cloud service that processes, prioritizes, and executes commands. That’s the real magic and what most people do not understand. 2. Smart devices work together With so many smart appliances and devices on the market today, it’s understandable that the average consumer might think that they actually communicate and work together. This is simply not the case. Smart devices are not that smart. They are designed and manufactured by different, often competing, companies. There are no national or industry standards governing these products. Even if they all operate using Wi-Fi® communications, that doesn’t mean they work together. Some companies promote a home control platform, which unites different devices from different companies – in theory. The platform is yet another third-party software totally dependent on other companies developing APIs and writing control modules for their hardware to run on that piece of software. The devices are not independently compatible. Also, when updates are made to either the hardware or the software, functionality may be affected for some period. That’s a nice way of saying the device or system won’t work and there’s no way of knowing for how long. 3. It’s a DIY project Which brings us to the next myth, which is that the average person can do it themselves. Unless you are a skilled professional, I would not advise taking on a smart home project. You want to make a light turn on and off with your Alexa® or Google Assistant™ virtual assistant software, go for it. A smart home takes much more planning and expertise. I have no problem changing a light bulb or hanging a light fixture in my dining room; however, I am not going to rewire my house. I may change the flush valve in my toilet, but I’m not going to replace the pipes in my house. You get it. Integrating devices and systems, establishing different zones, creating scenes, designing the UI with a balance between control, feedback, and simplicity – all takes experience and skill. 4. Need a programmer to make changes Early adopters may have experienced the pain of trying to make a simple change or update to their home control system. Years ago, if the cable provider changed the channel line-up, the homeowner would have to call the dealer or programmer to make an appointment for them to come out to the house to reprogram the system. The system wouldn’t work as expected until it was updated, which often took several days and beaucoup bucks. Not anymore. Technology has evolved so now it’s easy for system owners to change favorite channels, create scenes, rename buttons, update images, and more. While a professional is needed for the initial installation and setup, the system is easy to manage once it’s up and running. This makes life so much easier for both dealer and customer. 5. Tech becomes obsolete quickly Similar to updating the UI, updating firmware or hardware used to be a stressful process. A smart home should be intelligent enough to update itself. Apps don’t become obsolete. Updates are constantly pushed out from the cloud, making them better all the time. The same is true for a good smart home system. New features, functions, and device support gets added in the background consistently, so the system you installed (or purchased) yesterday gets better over time. Swapping out decorative elements, such as keypads, dimmers, and touch screens is also seamless. When a new device is added, all the settings are pulled down from the cloud and it just works. No system interruptions. No sunk costs. No imposing house calls. No surprise bills. 6. Lighting control saves energy and money Lighting control is one of the most popular smart systems, but it takes more than just one system to make a home smart. On the surface, it makes sense that if you dim the lights ten percent, then you save ten percent of energy costs. If the shades are raised during the day to take advantage of sunlight so the lights don’t need to be on (or at least not 100%), but that causes the room temperature to rise a few degrees, which triggers the air conditioner to run longer and more often, was energy usage (or cost) reduced? A smart home integrates all the various systems and technology to optimize comfort, convenience, safety, and sometimes energy. 7. Home technology is easy to hack Security is at the forefront of people’s minds these days. Personal identities are stolen; email accounts hacked; private photos publicized; and more. A smart home must outsmart those who don’t respect privacy. Crestron control systems adhere to the strictest security standards. The same Crestron control system that goes into a home is also installed in secure government and military facilities, global banking institutions, hospitals, and other mission critical applications. When installed correctly by a trained professional, a Crestron smart home is the gold standard for security, comfort, and convenience.