3,800sf, 4 bdrm, 3.5 bath with oversized 4 car garage and over 270sf Loggia; climate controlled wine room and bar, Tech Room, landscaping and pool. Solar, high efficiency HVAC and insulation was used which resulted in huge rebates from utility companies, enhancing the ROI. The challenge with this property was the downslope lot, sewer system was lower than main line at the street thus requiring a special pump system. Retaining walls to create a flat usable back yard. ESI Builders is a subsidiary of EnergyWise Solutions, Inc. and was formed by Allan, Bob and Dave to fulfill an important need for quality home builders and remodeling services in the Sacramento region. With a strong and growing referral base, we decided to provide a convenient one-stop option for our clients and focus on combining our key services: quality custom homes and remodels, turnkey client partnering and communication, and energy efficient and environmentally sustainable measures in all we do. Through energy efficient appliances and fixtures, solar power, high efficiency heating and cooling systems, enhanced insulation and sealing, and other construction elements – we go beyond simple code compliance and give you immediate savings and greater sustainability for your new or remodeled home. All of the design work and construction tasks for our clients are done by or supervised by our highly trained, professional staff. This not only saves you money, it provides a peace of mind that all of the details are taken care of and the job is being done right – to Perfection. Our service does not stop after we clean up and drive off. We continue to provide support for any warranty issues that arise and give you administrative support as needed in order to assure you obtain any energy-related tax incentives or rebates. This ‘One call does it all’ philosophy assures that your experience in remodeling or upgrading your home is an enjoyable one. ESI Builders was formed by professionals with varying backgrounds and a common interest to provide you, our clients, with options to live more comfortably, save money, and enjoy quality homes for many years to come. As our company continues to grow and evolve, the expertise has been quickly growing to include several job foreman, tradesmen, and support staff. In response to our growth, we will continue to hire well-qualified staff and we will remain committed to maintaining a level of quality, attention to detail, and pursuit of perfection.

The family purchased the 1950s ranch on Mullet Lake because their daughter dreamed of being married on its shores. The home would be used for the wedding venue and then as a wedding gift to the young couple. We were originally hired in August 2014 to help with a simple renovation of the home that was to be completed well in advance of the August 2015 wedding date. However, thorough investigation revealed significant issues with the original foundation, floor framing and other critical elements of the home’s structure that made that impossible. Based on this information, the family decided to tear down and build again. So now we were tasked with designing a new home that would embody their daughter’s vision of a storybook home – a vision inspired by another one of our projects that she had toured. To capture this aesthetic, traditional cottage materials such as stone and cedar shakes are accentuated by more materials such as reclaimed barn wood siding and corrugated CORTEN steel accent roofs. Inside, interior finishes include hand-hewn timber accents that frame openings and highlight features like the entrance reading nook. Natural materials shine against white walls and simply furnished rooms. While the house has nods to vintage style throughout, the open-plan kitchen and living area allows for both contemporary living and entertaining. We were able to capture their daughter’s vision and the home was completed on time for her big day. - Jacqueline Southby Photography

Challenge: To update this 1980's kitchen without adding space and within a budget that felt comfortable for the clients. Many restrictions and limitations existing making this one of the most challenging and problem solving task I had ever undertaken. These include the integrity of the carrying beam which had to remain that held up the second story, a transition to a vaulted ceiling in the adjacent Family Room, a support wall and column that need to be designed around as well as many unseen restrictions inside walls that presented interesting issues to the desired design and some very creative problem solving. Photographed by one of the countries best John Bessler and styled by the very talented Karin Lidbeck- Brent.

Pauline Hartogh of Wetherly’s Interiors was endowed with the task to create a transitional home for a family of four that melded modern luxury with functionality. She divided the home into three residential wings, all of which are structured in clean, contemporary lines. The heart of the home was created by connecting the indoors to the outdoors using floor-to-ceiling glass, which set an open focus for easy entertainment. The landscape further enhanced the clients’ desire to embrace the indoor/outdoor lifestyle that Florida’s climate offers. Amid warm, tropical landscaping, a Chartes-inspired stone labyrinth provides beauty while also providing a place for meditation and relaxation. An exceptional home calls for exceptional products, and when researching which stone to use, Hartogh went straight for Eldorado Stone. “I feel strongly that the use of Eldorado Stone’s products greatly enriched two of the areas in this project which won design awards,” Hartogh explained. The joints are seamless and the end result is always exactly what she aimed for. Hartogh chose Dry Creek Stacked Stone for the entire exterior, including patio walls and pillars, because not only looks current but also allows her the flexibility to create any design. The use of this product not only helped establish the overall tone for the home but it also allowed for architectural details, which was validated by winning the American Society of Interior Design Award 2013 – Outdoor Living, Single Family Home. Accolades: American Society of Interior Design Award 2013 – Bathroom Design, Transitional American Society of Interior Design Award 2013 – Single Residential Space, Contemporary American Society of Interior Design Award 2013 – Outdoor Living, Single Family Home Eldorado Stone Profile Featured: Exterior Façade – Dry Creek Stacked Stone Eldorado Stone Profile Featured: Master Bathroom – Pearl White CoastalReef Interior Design: Pauline Hartogh, Wetherlys Interiors Website: www.wetherlysinteriors.com Phone: (561) 691-4707 Architecture: Henry Franky, Franky & Associates Architect, Inc. Website: www.frankyarchitect.com Phone: (561) 338-3309 Home Builder: Gary Hartogh, Couture Homes Website: www.couture-homes.com Phone: (561) 776-0511 Photographer: David Durbak Website: www.durbak.com Phone: (561) 271.0706

This project was such an incredible design opportunity, and instilled inspiration and excitement at every turn! Our amazing clients came to us with the challenge of converting their beloved family home into a welcoming haven for all members of the family. At the time that we met our clients, they were struggling with the difficult personal decision of the fate of the home. Their father/father-in-law had passed away and their mother/mother-in-law had recently been admitted into a nursing facility and was fighting Alzheimer’s. Resistant to loss of the home now that both parents were out of it, our clients purchased the home to keep in in the family. Despite their permanent home currently being in New Jersey, these clients dedicated themselves to keeping and revitalizing the house. We were moved by the story and became immediately passionate about bringing this dream to life. The home was built by the parents of our clients and was only ever owned by them, making this a truly special space to the family. Our goal was to revitalize the home and to bring new energy into every room without losing the special characteristics that were original to the home when it was built. In this way, we were able to develop a house that maintains its own unique personality while offering a space of welcoming neutrality for all members of the family to enjoy over time. The renovation touched every part of the home: the exterior, foyer, kitchen, living room, sun room, garage, six bedrooms, three bathrooms, the laundry room, and everything in between. The focus was to develop a style that carried consistently from space to space, but allowed for unique expression in the small details in every room. Starting at the entry, we renovated the front door and entry point to offer more presence and to bring more of the mid-century vibe to the home’s exterior. We integrated a new modern front door, cedar shingle accents, new exterior paint, and gorgeous contemporary house numbers that really allow the home to stand out. Just inside the entry, we renovated the foyer to create a playful entry point worthy of attention. Cement look tile adorns the foyer floor, and we’ve added new lighting and upgraded the entry coat storage. Upon entering the home, one will immediately be captivated by the stunning kitchen just off the entry. We transformed this space in just about every way. While the footprint of the home ultimately remained almost identical, the aesthetics were completely turned on their head. We re-worked the kitchen to maximize storage and to create an informal dining area that is great for casual hosting or morning coffee. We removed the entry to the garage that was once in the informal dining, and created a peninsula in its place that offers a unique division between the kitchen/informal dining and the formal dining and living areas. The simple light warm light gray cabinetry offers a bit of traditional elegance, along with the marble backsplash and quartz countertops. We extended the original wood flooring into the kitchen and stained all floors to match for a warmth that truly resonates through all spaces. We upgraded appliances, added lighting everywhere, and finished the space with some gorgeous mid century furniture pieces. In the formal dining and living room, we really focused on maintaining the original marble fireplace as a focal point. We cleaned the marble, repaired the mortar, and refinished the original fireplace screen to give a new sleek look in black. We then integrated a new gas insert for modern heating and painted the upper portion in a rich navy blue; an accent that is carried through the home consistently as a nod to our client’s love of the color. The former entry into the old covered porch is now an elegant glass door leading to a stunning finished sunroom. This room was completely upgraded as well. We wrapped the entire space in cozy white shiplap to keep a casual feel with brightness. We tiled the floor with large format concrete look tile, and painted the old brick fireplace a bright white. We installed a new gas burning unit, and integrated transitional style lighting to bring warmth and elegance into the space. The new black-frame windows are adorned with decorative shades that feature hand-sketched bird prints, and we’ve created a dedicated garden-ware “nook” for our client who loves to work in the yard. The far end of this space is completed with two oversized chaise loungers and overhead lights…the most perfect little reading nook! Just off the dining room, we created an entirely new space to the home: a mudroom. The clients lacked this space and desperately needed a landing spot upon entering the home from the garage. We uniquely planned existing space in the garage to utilize for this purpose, and were able to create a small but functional entry point without losing the ability to park cars in the garage. This new space features cement-look tile, gorgeous deep brown cabinetry, and plenty of storage for all the small items one might need to store while moving in and out of the home. The remainder of the upstairs level includes massive renovations to the guest hall bathroom and guest bedroom, upstairs master bed/bath suite, and a third bedroom that we converted into a home office for the client. Some of the largest transformations were made in the basement, where unfinished space and lack of light were converted into gloriously lit, cozy, finished spaces. Our first task was to convert the massive basement living room into the new master bedroom for our clients. We removed existing built-ins, created an entirely new walk-in closet, painted the old brick fireplace, installed a new gas unit, added carpet, introduced new lighting, replaced windows, and upgraded every part of the aesthetic appearance. One of the most incredible features of this space is the custom double sliding barn door made by a Denver artisan. This space is truly a retreat for our clients! We also completely transformed the laundry room, back storage room, basement master bathroom, and two bedrooms. This home’s massive scope and ever-evolving challenges were thrilling and exciting to work with, and the result is absolutely amazing. At the end of the day, this home offers a look and feel that the clients love. Above all, though, the clients feel the spirit of their family home and have a welcoming environment for all members of the family to enjoy for years to come.

The clients wanted a small, simple pool house to compliment their historic farmhouse and provide abundant capabilities for outdoor entertaining. They settled on a small, open structure with a vaulted cedar ceiling and task/ambient lighting. An outdoor kitchen, a covered seating area, a storage/changing room and an all-weather Azek pergola with party-lighting were included. A structural retaining wall was needed to provide level ground for both the in-ground pool and pool house, along with strategically planted ornamental grasses for privacy. The green standing seam roof, sliding barn door, board & batten siding and period-correct trim all mirror details from the residence and detached barn.

The "Dream of the '90s" was alive in this industrial loft condo before Neil Kelly Portland Design Consultant Erika Altenhofen got her hands on it. No new roof penetrations could be made, so we were tasked with updating the current footprint. Erika filled the niche with much needed storage provisions, like a shelf and cabinet. The shower tile will replaced with stunning blue "Billie Ombre" tile by Artistic Tile. An impressive marble slab was laid on a fresh navy blue vanity, white oval mirrors and fitting industrial sconce lighting rounds out the remodeled space.

Time had stood still at this 1970s ranch in Armonk when the owners invited us to collaborate with them to transform it into a modern, light-filled home for their young family. The budget was lean, so economy was a primary consideration for every design decision. The challenge was to identify the modest home’s virtues – vaulted ceilings and a lovely backyard – and accentuate them by strategically optimizing available funds. We were tasked with rectifying a dysfunctional interior stair, connecting to the outdoors with new large windows, and updating the exterior. We focused our attention on a finite set of architectural moves which would have the biggest impact and improve our clients’ daily experience of the home. Detailing was kept simple, using common grade materials and standard components. All exterior walls were revamped with new windows and siding. Although these materials were not particularly costly, thoughtful layout of boards, battens, and openings produced a cohesive, rigorous composition at each facade. Since the budget would not cover the homeowners’ complete wish list, some items were bracketed for subsequent phases. The challenge was to establish a framework that would allow future work – including a new roof and kitchen renovation – to proceed smoothly. The homeowners, both scientists, were enthusiastic collaborators, contributing their outstanding design sensibilities to selection of fixtures and finishes. Construction ended just in time for the arrival of their baby – and with that, the transformation of their family home was complete.

This spacious kitchen design in Yardley is a bright, open plan space bathed in natural light from the large windows, doors, and skylights. The white perimeter cabinets from Koch and Company are complemented by handmade subway tile and MSI Surfaces Calcatta Venice quartz countertop. The white color scheme is beautifully contrasted by blue island cabinetry with a bi-level countertop and barstool seating. The island also includes a Task Lighting angled power strip, a narrow wine refrigerator, and a white Blanco Siligranit apron front sink with a Riobel Edge faucet and chrome soap dispenser. The kitchen cabinets are accented by Top Knobs Lydia style pulls in chrome. Bosch stainless appliances feature throughout the kitchen, including a microwave drawer and a Bosch stainless chimney hood. Dark hardwood flooring from Meridian brings depth to the style. The natural lighting is complemented by pendant lights from Wage Lighting, undercabinet lighting, and upper glass front cabinets with in cabinet lighting.

This client approached us to help her redesign her kitchen. It turned out to be a redesign of their spacious kitchen, informal dining, wet bar, work desk & pantry. Our design started with the clean-up of some intrusive structure. We were able to replace a dropped beam and post with a larger flush beam and removed and intrusively placed post. This simple structural change opened up more design opportunities and helped the areas flow easily between one another. Special attention was applied to the show stopping stained gray kitchen island which became the focal point of the kitchen. The previous L-shaped was lined with columns and arches visually closing itself and its users off from the living and dining areas nearby. The owner was able to source a beautiful one piece slab of honed Vermont white danby marble for the island. This spacious island provides generous seating for 4-5 people and plenty of space for cooking prep and clean up. After removing the arches from the island area we did not want to clutter up the space, so two lantern fixtures from Circa lighting were selected to add an eye attracting detail as well as task lighting. The island isn’t the only pageant winner in this kitchen, the range wall has plenty to look at with the Wolf cook top, the custom vent hood, by Modern-Aire, and classic Carrera marble subway tile back splash and the perimeter counter top of honed absolute black granite. Phoography: Tina Colebrook

A sitting area with desk is right next to the living room and is a great little place to take care of minor tasks or read the mail.
Example of a mid-sized danish open concept light wood floor living room library design in Milwaukee with white walls

We planned a thoughtful redesign of this beautiful home while retaining many of the existing features. We wanted this house to feel the immediacy of its environment. So we carried the exterior front entry style into the interiors, too, as a way to bring the beautiful outdoors in. In addition, we added patios to all the bedrooms to make them feel much bigger. Luckily for us, our temperate California climate makes it possible for the patios to be used consistently throughout the year. The original kitchen design did not have exposed beams, but we decided to replicate the motif of the 30" living room beams in the kitchen as well, making it one of our favorite details of the house. To make the kitchen more functional, we added a second island allowing us to separate kitchen tasks. The sink island works as a food prep area, and the bar island is for mail, crafts, and quick snacks. We designed the primary bedroom as a relaxation sanctuary – something we highly recommend to all parents. It features some of our favorite things: a cognac leather reading chair next to a fireplace, Scottish plaid fabrics, a vegetable dye rug, art from our favorite cities, and goofy portraits of the kids. --- Project designed by Courtney Thomas Design in La Cañada. Serving Pasadena, Glendale, Monrovia, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, and Altadena. For more about Courtney Thomas Design, see here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/portfolio/functional-ranch-house-design/

Our Carmel design-build studio was tasked with organizing our client’s basement and main floor to improve functionality and create spaces for entertaining. In the basement, the goal was to include a simple dry bar, theater area, mingling or lounge area, playroom, and gym space with the vibe of a swanky lounge with a moody color scheme. In the large theater area, a U-shaped sectional with a sofa table and bar stools with a deep blue, gold, white, and wood theme create a sophisticated appeal. The addition of a perpendicular wall for the new bar created a nook for a long banquette. With a couple of elegant cocktail tables and chairs, it demarcates the lounge area. Sliding metal doors, chunky picture ledges, architectural accent walls, and artsy wall sconces add a pop of fun. On the main floor, a unique feature fireplace creates architectural interest. The traditional painted surround was removed, and dark large format tile was added to the entire chase, as well as rustic iron brackets and wood mantel. The moldings behind the TV console create a dramatic dimensional feature, and a built-in bench along the back window adds extra seating and offers storage space to tuck away the toys. In the office, a beautiful feature wall was installed to balance the built-ins on the other side. The powder room also received a fun facelift, giving it character and glitz. --- Project completed by Wendy Langston's Everything Home interior design firm, which serves Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Indianapolis. For more about Everything Home, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/portfolio/carmel-indiana-posh-home-remodel

Our Carmel design-build studio was tasked with organizing our client’s basement and main floor to improve functionality and create spaces for entertaining. In the basement, the goal was to include a simple dry bar, theater area, mingling or lounge area, playroom, and gym space with the vibe of a swanky lounge with a moody color scheme. In the large theater area, a U-shaped sectional with a sofa table and bar stools with a deep blue, gold, white, and wood theme create a sophisticated appeal. The addition of a perpendicular wall for the new bar created a nook for a long banquette. With a couple of elegant cocktail tables and chairs, it demarcates the lounge area. Sliding metal doors, chunky picture ledges, architectural accent walls, and artsy wall sconces add a pop of fun. On the main floor, a unique feature fireplace creates architectural interest. The traditional painted surround was removed, and dark large format tile was added to the entire chase, as well as rustic iron brackets and wood mantel. The moldings behind the TV console create a dramatic dimensional feature, and a built-in bench along the back window adds extra seating and offers storage space to tuck away the toys. In the office, a beautiful feature wall was installed to balance the built-ins on the other side. The powder room also received a fun facelift, giving it character and glitz. --- Project completed by Wendy Langston's Everything Home interior design firm, which serves Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Indianapolis. For more about Everything Home, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/portfolio/carmel-indiana-posh-home-remodel

Our Carmel design-build studio was tasked with organizing our client’s basement and main floor to improve functionality and create spaces for entertaining. In the basement, the goal was to include a simple dry bar, theater area, mingling or lounge area, playroom, and gym space with the vibe of a swanky lounge with a moody color scheme. In the large theater area, a U-shaped sectional with a sofa table and bar stools with a deep blue, gold, white, and wood theme create a sophisticated appeal. The addition of a perpendicular wall for the new bar created a nook for a long banquette. With a couple of elegant cocktail tables and chairs, it demarcates the lounge area. Sliding metal doors, chunky picture ledges, architectural accent walls, and artsy wall sconces add a pop of fun. On the main floor, a unique feature fireplace creates architectural interest. The traditional painted surround was removed, and dark large format tile was added to the entire chase, as well as rustic iron brackets and wood mantel. The moldings behind the TV console create a dramatic dimensional feature, and a built-in bench along the back window adds extra seating and offers storage space to tuck away the toys. In the office, a beautiful feature wall was installed to balance the built-ins on the other side. The powder room also received a fun facelift, giving it character and glitz. --- Project completed by Wendy Langston's Everything Home interior design firm, which serves Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Indianapolis. For more about Everything Home, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/portfolio/carmel-indiana-posh-home-remodel

Elegant gender-neutral dark wood floor walk-in closet photo with raised-panel cabinets and white cabinets

Our Carmel design-build studio was tasked with organizing our client’s basement and main floor to improve functionality and create spaces for entertaining. In the basement, the goal was to include a simple dry bar, theater area, mingling or lounge area, playroom, and gym space with the vibe of a swanky lounge with a moody color scheme. In the large theater area, a U-shaped sectional with a sofa table and bar stools with a deep blue, gold, white, and wood theme create a sophisticated appeal. The addition of a perpendicular wall for the new bar created a nook for a long banquette. With a couple of elegant cocktail tables and chairs, it demarcates the lounge area. Sliding metal doors, chunky picture ledges, architectural accent walls, and artsy wall sconces add a pop of fun. On the main floor, a unique feature fireplace creates architectural interest. The traditional painted surround was removed, and dark large format tile was added to the entire chase, as well as rustic iron brackets and wood mantel. The moldings behind the TV console create a dramatic dimensional feature, and a built-in bench along the back window adds extra seating and offers storage space to tuck away the toys. In the office, a beautiful feature wall was installed to balance the built-ins on the other side. The powder room also received a fun facelift, giving it character and glitz. --- Project completed by Wendy Langston's Everything Home interior design firm, which serves Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Indianapolis. For more about Everything Home, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/portfolio/carmel-indiana-posh-home-remodel

The clients, a young professional couple had lived with this bathroom in their townhome for 6 years. They finally could not take it any longer. The designer was tasked with turning this ugly duckling into a beautiful swan without relocating walls, doors, fittings, or fixtures in this principal bathroom. The client wish list included, better storage, improved lighting, replacing the tub with a shower, and creating a sparkling personality for this uninspired space using any color way except white. The designer began the transformation with the wall tile. Large format rectangular tiles were installed floor to ceiling on the vanity wall and continued behind the toilet and into the shower. The soft variation in tile pattern is very soothing and added to the Zen feeling of the room. One partner is an avid gardener and wanted to bring natural colors into the space. The same tile is used on the floor in a matte finish for slip resistance and in a 2” mosaic of the same tile is used on the shower floor. A lighted tile recess was created across the entire back wall of the shower beautifully illuminating the wall. Recycled glass tiles used in the niche represent the color and shape of leaves. A single glass panel was used in place of a traditional shower door. Continuing the serene colorway of the bath, natural rift cut white oak was chosen for the vanity and the floating shelves above the toilet. A white quartz for the countertop, has a small reflective pattern like the polished chrome of the fittings and hardware. Natural curved shapes are repeated in the arch of the faucet, the hardware, the front of the toilet and shower column. The rectangular shape of the tile is repeated in the drawer fronts of the cabinets, the sink, the medicine cabinet, and the floating shelves. The shower column was selected to maintain the simple lines of the fittings while providing a temperature, pressure balance shower experience with a multi-function main shower head and handheld head. The dual flush toilet and low flow shower are a water saving consideration. The floating shelves provide decorative and functional storage. The asymmetric design of the medicine cabinet allows for a full view in the mirror with the added function of a tri view mirror when open. Built in LED lighting is controllable from 2500K to 4000K. The interior of the medicine cabinet is also mirrored and electrified to keep the countertop clear of necessities. Additional lighting is provided with recessed LED fixtures for the vanity area as well as in the shower. A motion sensor light installed under the vanity illuminates the room with a soft glow at night. The transformation is now complete. No longer an ugly duckling and source of unhappiness, the new bathroom provides a much-needed respite from the couples’ busy lives. It has created a retreat to recharge and replenish, two very important components of wellness.

The kitchen is the heart of every home and Pinnacle Custom Cabinets out of Chilliwack worked hand in hand with our clients to make a functional, warm, inviting space. Lots of task specific lighting and lighting above to highlight special kitchen items. Opening into the dining and living spaces, this kitchen also is designed to take full advantage of the beautiful lakefront view! Photo by Brice Ferre