Motorized spice rack hides behind upper cabinet when not in use. The vignette within Barrett Technology’s Design Center is one of its kind in the industry. Built to inspire and inform, this kitchen showcases today’s most innovative solutions in real world settings. All the technology (video, audio, lighting, security and HVAC) is controlled through a single app on the iPad. Even the motorized window shades, task & accent lighting are controlled via the Lutron Lighting Control System. It allows for lighting scene selection at the touch of a single button – including a “Cook” scene which when pressed will activate the lighting to an optimal 100% over the kitchen sink & island areas and will also drop the motorized spice rack from behind the wall cabinet. Project specs: Thermador appliances, Caesarstone countertops in honed Pebble. Single app control system by Savant. Photographer - Bruce Van Inwegen

Technology closet for the wired home. © Holly Lepere
Inspiration for an eclectic built-in desk terra-cotta tile study room remodel in Santa Barbara with beige walls

Inspiration for a cottage home design remodel in Minneapolis

I am devoted to illuminating the carbon footprint a building leaves upon the planet. Therefore, my exterior and interior designs are focused on optimizing a building’s potential to react to, rather than impose upon, the landscape and surrounding elements. Each project is an opportunity to explore new avenues of state-of-the-art interior design, building science and construction methodologies. I like to state: “DESIGN IT SMART, BUILD IT STRONG, FINISH IT RIGHT!” Smart technology is factored into my designs so that a building can intuitively sense and change with the surrounding environment. Intuitive Smart Technology allows a building to perform as a self-contained and self-sustaining structure. For my residential clients, Intuitive Smart Technology provides a seamless integration of a home’s operational systems – and security rooms and safe haven is taking a lead in homes where privacy is of the utmost importance. My designers, planners and consultants, strive to achieve every project’s goal with a new and unique approach. We specialize in every aspect of design; ranging from branding to urban planning. Sandra Costa Design Group Is a firm with partners and networks all over the world. We have a global perspective, enhancing the outcome of our design. Our international reputation for innovative design and a unique view of design gives clients a new aperture to there project. I am always interested in hearing about a new project and can be reached at 310 874 3739 to discuss yours. Sandra Costa Exterior design and furniture by Sandra Costa Real Estate Images by Angelo Costa 310 985 5509

Tru Fig outlet in backsplash. Flush mounted. The vignette within Barrett Technology’s Design Center is one of its kind in the industry. Built to inspire and inform, this kitchen showcases today’s most innovative solutions in real world settings. All the technology (video, audio, lighting, security and HVAC) is controlled through a single app on the iPad. Even the motorized window shades, task & accent lighting are controlled via the Lutron Lighting Control System. It allows for lighting scene selection at the touch of a single button – including a “Cook” scene which when pressed will activate the lighting to an optimal 100% over the kitchen sink & island areas and will also drop the motorized spice rack from behind the wall cabinet. Project specs: Thermador appliances, Caesarstone countertops in honed Pebble. Single app control system by Savant.

Northern Michigan is the ultimate getaway destination with serene views and abundance of outdoor recreation. This remote Up North house offers nothing short of that. With the nearest major town almost 45 minutes away, it was essential this vacation home offered all the amenities for entertainment and relaxation. Spire worked with the client to create the perfect lake house retreat with comfort and convenience during any season or weather. The living room with an attached game room is a versatile space that offers endless entertainment. A 65” TV was installed over the fireplace in the custom stone wall. The adjustable mount allows the TV to lower for comfortable viewing from either the couch or pool table. A pair of Meridian Audio DSP7200 custom color matched speakers equipped with a Meridian Audio 218 digital controller were strategically installed on each side of the fireplace. The floor-standing speakers compliment the natural stone while providing astonishingly life-like sound, perfect for streaming live concerts. The powerful audio extends to the upper level of the home. Spire installed B&W 700 series bookshelf speakers in the executive office and a Triad custom speaker bar in the master bedroom. These speakers are ideal for smaller rooms, while elevating the TV experience. The large living room windows offer beautiful lake views and ample lighting. Lutron Palladiom shades were installed to easily control the natural light in the living room, master bedroom and bathroom. They are custom designed and fully automated to let in the morning sun or achieve partial shading or complete privacy. Whether set on a schedule or controlled from an iPad, the shades operate quietly and seamlessly. The technology was designed to be enjoyed just as much indoors as outdoors. With the whole home audio system, high-quality sound can flow throughout the indoor rooms as well as the outdoor patio. While the location may be remote, Spire ensured the WiFi and network connection is strong both throughout the yard and inside the home. A Lutron HomeWorks QS system integrates the control of all the interior and exterior lighting including motion sensing for the exterior pathway. Since this is not a permanent residence, a control and security system was very important. A personalized Savant system was integrated for full home control of lighting, climate, entertainment and security from anywhere with a smart device . This includes the ability to control the multiple landscape light zones with timed scenes. The Doorbird cameras and chimes with the integration of camera feeds into the Savant Control provides remote communication with visitors at any of the exterior doors. Remote access also allows rebooting of all essential systems from any location.

Awarded "Best Smart Home of the Year" by EH, this home's kitchen features a floor lift which allows for entertainment, but can be tucked away when distractions are not wanted. To control the lighting and offer privacy from the large windows, Spire installed Lutron motorized shades that seamless descends from hidden soffits. Spire outfitted this beautiful Michigan home with the best in high quality luxury technology. The homeowners enjoy the complete control of their home, from lighting and shading to entertainment and security, through the Savant Control System.

Advanced Integated Controls was givin the opportunity to work alongside Sandcastle Construction to create a pimped out Man Cave out of a garage. The garage itself is a Home Technology love fest. Complete with a 70" Smart LED TV, full surround sound using KEF flat panel LCR speakers and a Sunfire Subwoofer to add the kick ass factor. the garage is also completely automated using the Elan Home systems g' platform. The owner is able to control the custom LED ceiling lighting, the security system, and the A/V system using the Elan g' home Automation App.

CPI implemented a home security system with remote access and the ability to control all aspects from any location. From locking doors to checking security footage, CPI's home automation solutions give you complete control.

AVDG oversaw a wide array of technology integrations for this stunning residential property in Woodside, California. An ambitious project from the start, the family tore down their existing house to build a modern smart home, equipped with the latest innovations in automation and audiovisual systems. AVDG’s experts guided the client through all phases of the project, providing insight and options to meet the family’s specific needs. AVDG also worked closely with the general contractor, partnering on everything from wire placement to security system integration. In addition to the technology integrations in the 7,786-square-foot home, the project also included work on two additional structures: a pool house and an in-law unit. Homeowners Carol and John Hamilton had braced themselves for the challenges of completing such an ambitious undertaking, but they soon found that AVDG’s problem-solving and project management would make the project far smoother than they anticipated.

Iron Entry Doors from First Impression Ironworks are crafted uniquely for your home. Our steel entry doors are an investment that will truly add value to your home, since each door is custom built to your home’s specifications and made from the highest quality materials. Each wrought iron door, whether solid steel, iron and glass, or wrought iron and wood, is expertly made in Arizona by our talented iron artisans. Our wrought iron is sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Every iron entry door is crafted from the strongest, most robust steel in the door, frame, iron pull handles, and even the standard 10" steel latch and lock guard. Name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, so your new front door can be upgraded with the latest technology and integrated with alarm and monitoring systems. We’re here to bring your dreams to life with customization available for whatever needs fit your home best, whether it’s removable sunscreens, sidelights, transoms, or elegant iron hardware. Create the first impression you’ve always wanted for your home today with your vision and our expertise!

A beautiful home theatre featuring a 110" video projection screen and a UHD (4K) video projector, which delivers a outstanding picture. The front speakers, subwoofer and all electronic equipment are hidden behind cabinet doors. Four in-ceiling speakers fill the space with full surround sound. The entire system including a Lutron lighting system are controlled via a handheld remote control.

German Embassy in Pristina - Kosovo, contracted the architecture office “Ferizi + Ferizi Architects” to plan and implement an Annex Office building for their purposes. As detached part of this building is designed the waiting area, as alone standing structure. This Office Building is constructed by assembling of Eight used office containers that were delivered on trucks and set up after only a few hours on the basis of the LEGO principle, according to the planning on strip foundations. By removing the flexible exterior wall panels, a large room of 115 m² was created, with the counter wall as a room partition between two office spaces, each with seven workstations as well as three counters for agents on one side and a room for visitors on the other side. With this system, room solutions can be easily implemented in all dimensions. The container, seen as a geometric shape, is a simple, octagonal, solid box. The standardized perfection of its dimensions is striking: 2.44 meters wide, 2.59 meters high and 6.06 meters or 12.19 meters long. Since its introduction in 1956 by the American transport entrepreneur Malcom McLean, the container has become a standardized transport module worldwide, whether on ships, trucks or construction sites. The shipping containers have additionally revolutionized the transport industry, pushed the globalization noticeably, and thus directly or indirectly influenced all our lives. But after only a few years, when the first overseas containers wore out, many engineers recognized the positive properties of used shipping containers for building houses, especially since they are robust, flexible, multifunctional and second-hand relatively inexpensive to purchase. The time has long passed by to treat containers exclusively as transport objects. As a "measure of all things", containers can hardly be ignored in construction. Their use is no longer limited to temporary use since school containers, information containers, office containers or entire residential buildings are now part of our everyday life in the construction industry. However, current examples of the container architecture prove that even the most demanding solutions for container building are feasible. For their specific aesthetic and spatial qualities, containers also serve as design parameters for the development of new forms of architecture and urbanity. The office building as an extension of the visa section, characterized by modern materials and contemporary aesthetics has been designed and built mainly as a low-energy building. Extensive insulation to achieve a comfortable and sustainable constant temperature in the interior, high window quality and low energy consumption make the building energy-efficient. The sophisticated lighting technology, networks, heating systems and air-conditioning systems are also components of this equipment. It creates an overall harmonic picture and guarantees the highest standard in sustainable construction, taking into consideration the fact that environmentally friendly recycling and reutilization have become an increasingly important issue in our society. West and East side of the wooden facade is compact and has few openings, while the southern facade is completely open with lot of glass. Its spatial openness ensures a transparent, friendly work environment, which allows a lot of light into the space. This openness allows an uninterrupted, pleasant and close-to-nature view from interior spaces into the beautiful garden. During the installation of sophisticated light sources in the garden, emphasis was not only put on functionality and security, but also on the beauty of the garden shown through the illumination in the evening. Large, horizontal white “brisole” serve as external sun protection systems, mounted on the canopies of the entrance areas of the modular construction and the enclosure, adeptly cast shade on these areas and at the same time shape the entire architectural language. While on one hand, the two quadratic ledges suspended in the air, are docked with steel stairs and match the wooden façade, lead the staff to their office space, the artful modern interior, on the other hand, perfectly unites the functionality, innovative technology, culture and positive effects on the employees' efficiency and wellbeing. A lot of white, interjected by warm wooden and colored accents, determines the ambience. In the case of the lighting solution, the mainly linear ceiling lighting is used as the overlapping design element both for the offices of the visa section as well as for the counters and the waiting area for the visitors. They underline the puristic design in order to create a pleasant light for a desired general illumination and ensure optimal light conditions without causing disturbing reflections on the computer screens. In addition, precisely positioned pendant luminaires are installed at the workstations, which ensure pleasant room brightness. In the entrance area, the harmonic and uniform lighting effect from the ground highlights the integration of photography and architecture. Photographs of landscapes, people, places, expressing unforgettable, impressive moments and memories have been lovingly engraved on 8 x 8cm square oak blocks. The idea of an effective, impressive environment that stimulates and inspires the work was the premiss on which the whole design concept was based. Consequently, the modular construction was no longer viewed through its history of utilization and scars, but rather as a structure of work ambiance, art and elegance. FERIZI + FERIZI Architects Photo: Arben Llapashtica

Inspiration for a modern family room remodel in Toronto

A Canadian Sound completed home automation feature.
Inspiration for a modern family room remodel in Toronto

Example of a minimalist family room design in Toronto

Minimalist family room photo in Toronto