A luxury farmhouse estate with a wrap-around porch and expansive scenic acreage, featuring white siding, black windows, and board-and-batten details. The property includes a barn, landscaped grounds, and outbuildings, highlighted by a small bridge over a garden pond. Designed as a modern farmhouse retreat, this exterior blends rustic charm with timeless elegance.

Example of a large beach style backyard stone and rectangular infinity pool fountain design in Chicago

Example of a trendy open concept brown floor family room design in Las Vegas with beige walls, no fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Originally a sunroom or sitting area, quickly became a cozy and custom built-in home office as remodel occurred during Covid shutdowns.
Home office - craftsman home office idea in San Francisco

A challenging aspect of this project was the heating system. We installed Runtal hydronic radiators in place of the existing hot water/ fan convector system. The building didn’t have boiler local shutoffs and therefore would’ve required several building wide heat shutdowns. To avoid these shutdowns and cause further tension with the neighbors the team froze the water boiler pipes to install the local shutoffs without any downtime to the building heating system. Another challenge was having to use makeup air in the kitchen due to a large kitchen exhaust hood. The make up air was routed under the floor and then through a plenum behind the cooktop. In order to hide the air shaft we fabricated a custom, stainless steel cover to sit flush to the countertop and blend with the cooktop appliance.

Steam Showers Inc. Imagine the sensation to dip your entire body in this simple yet fashionably elegant whirlpool bathtub. Within this deep tub are a set of superior hydro-massage jets specifically designed to target the user's pressure points to give a therapeutic soothing effect with a modern touch of sophistication. Equipped with our elegant LED chromatherapy lighting system and touch sensitive LCD control panel, we are confident that this product will make you leave feeling renewed and refreshed. AM128JDCLZ Dimensions: 71" x 37.4" x 28" ETL listed (US & Canada electrical safety) 110v Whirlpool Bath System Handheld Showerhead 14 Whirlpool Massage Jets Chromatherapy Lighting Computer Control Panel 60 Minute Auto Shutdown Function FM Radio Thermostatic Faucet Auto Pipe Cleaning Tub Capacity 91 Gallons

Back yard patio with fire pit sitting on concrete pavers and decomposed granite under a sail shade.
This is an example of a small drought-tolerant backyard concrete paver landscaping in Los Angeles with a fire pit.

We were super fortunate to squeeze into cabinetmaker Ryan Mathern's schedule to get this beautiful modern vanity and storage cabinet built before the holiday shutdown! They are white lacquer (we used Benjamin Moore's Simply White as a color match) and matte chrome finger pulls. The marble, Pearl Grey, is locally mined in Georgia and has a light grey overall tone with deeper grey veining. It is not as common as Carrara and way, way cheaper than popular Statuary and Calacatta.

This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

We managed to install the climbing wall before the pandemic shut-downs, and these kids put it to good use! The monkey bar installation had to wait until last winter to keep everyone as safe as possible.

Example of a mid-sized 1960s open concept light wood floor living room design in Seattle with a standard fireplace and a brick fireplace

This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

  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 was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

After years of searching for the perfect spot to build their cabin in Hood River Valley, Oregon, Risa discovered a defunct state park for sale known as Dimmick Park. Originally spanning 22 acres, the park had been flooded in the 1980s and was later traded to the Western River Conservancy. To protect the East Fork of the Hood River that boarders the property, the conservancy imposed restrictions on the deed before listing it for sale. Risa and her family, along with her brother-in-law’s family teamed up to purchase the property. They chose the cabin’s site to take advantage of the best possible view of the majestic Mt. Hood to the south. For several years, the two families camped on the land in a vintage Airstream and a refurbished shipping container while designing and building the house. Construction began shortly after the COVID-19 shutdown in 2020, and the cabin took shape with the help of subcontractors and a lot of sweat equity. Designed to accommodate the two families as a weekend retreat, the cabin features a bedroom and bathroom at each end and a double-height living space in between. An upper level includes a den and a bunk room connected by a steel and wood staircase and bridge. The house opens up to a view overlooking a meadow, complemented by an in-ground pool and a cedar hot tub that enhance the outdoor space. The simple form of the house was inspired by the classic barn structures commonly found in the surrounding orchards and farmlands. With a tight budget, much of the finishing work was completed by the two families themselves. Risa’s brother-in-law, a GC who has a steel shop, fabricated and installed all the metalwork, contributing significantly to the project’s personal and budget-conscious approach.

Located on approximately 12 acres of upland hillside that include old bluestone quarry sites, this project has developed over time through a series of alterations and additions to an existing late eighteenth century farmhouse. Initial new work included a new entry, screen porch and shed dormer additions to the main house, as well as a subsequent detached new ceramics studio. More recent complimentary additions include new dining, living and screened in porch spaces as well as new entry and connection links. Conceptualized as a cascading series of vernacular forms on a moderately sloping hillside, all new spaces feature extra height ceilings and plenty of glass and light connecting inside to out with new bluestone terraces, retaining walls and garden features. We also created a 246 square foot studio with a generous southwestern exposure and a passive cantilevered roof coverage for an aspiring ceramic artist. Inspired by local agrarian features, this new structure takes its cue from nearby chicken coops, but transforms with careful window, door and exterior material detailing. Built upon the tailings of an early bluestone quarry, the exterior landscaping includes the integration of existing adjacent ledge outcropping, dry laid bluestone walls, steps and terraces with a mature hardwood canopy. Planned for year round occupation (although with easy seasonal shutdown mode), amenities include: in floor radiant heating, slop sink, floor drains, insulated windows and doors, code compliant (spray foam) insulation envelope