Fujitsu Heat Pump Mini Split. Two heads-- one in basement.
Family room - craftsman family room idea in DC Metro

A bento box is more than just a lunch container—it’s a reflection of Japanese culture, mindful eating, and balanced nutrition. Traditionally used in Japan, bento boxes have gained global popularity due to their practicality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to promote healthy eating habits. What Is a Bento Box? A bento box is a single-portion packed meal, neatly arranged in a compartmentalized container. The word “bento” originates from the Chinese term meaning convenient, which perfectly describes its purpose. A typical bento includes rice or noodles, protein like fish, meat, or tofu, and a variety of vegetables or side dishes, all placed in separate sections to maintain flavor and presentation. Cultural Significance of Bento Boxes In Japan, bento boxes represent care, effort, and balance. Parents often prepare bento meals for their children as a symbol of love, while office workers rely on them for nutritious meals during busy days. Special versions like ekiben (railway station bento) and character bento (decorated meals shaped like animals or cartoons) highlight the creativity and cultural importance of bento-making. Health Benefits of Using a Bento Box One of the biggest advantages of a bento box is its role in portion control and balanced nutrition. Since the box has fixed compartments, it encourages variety without overeating. A well-prepared bento typically follows the principle of: 40–50% carbohydrates 30–40% vegetables 20–30% protein This balance helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and reduces the reliance on unhealthy fast food. Modern Bento Boxes and Their Uses Today’s bento boxes are designed to suit modern lifestyles. They are available in microwave-safe, leak-proof, and eco-friendly materials such as stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and bamboo fiber. Many come with insulated layers, sauce containers, and cutlery, making them ideal for: Office lunches School meals Travel and picnics Fitness and meal-prep routines With the rise of sustainable living, reusable bento boxes also help reduce single-use plastic waste. Bento Boxes in Everyday Life Bento boxes are no longer limited to Japanese cuisine. People worldwide use them to pack Indian, Western, vegan, or keto meals. From chapati and sabzi to pasta and salads, bento boxes adapt easily to different food preferences while keeping meals fresh and organized. Why Bento Boxes Are So Popular Today The popularity of bento boxes is driven by busy schedules, health awareness, and social media trends. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest showcase beautifully arranged bento meals, inspiring people to eat better and enjoy the process of food preparation. They combine functionality, aesthetics, and mindfulness, making meals more enjoyable. Conclusion A bento box is a smart and stylish way to enjoy homemade meals while staying healthy and organized. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, save money, or reduce environmental impact, a bento box offers a simple yet effective solution. With its deep cultural roots and modern versatility, the bento box continues to be a timeless companion for everyday meals.

These two though.... This retired "simple beach couple" are a couple of our faves. This was a collaboration in every sense of the word from start to finish. This was not a "throw us the keys and we'll do it all for you" type of project. They were very involved in every decision from architect plans all the way to bedside lamp placement. They had this land and former bungalow on a walkstreet in their beloved Hermosa Beach for over 30 years before they enlisted us to help them design and build their dream home. We worked with Lane Design Build and the client in wonderful harmony, and everyone is very pleased with the results.

These two though.... This retired "simple beach couple" are a couple of our faves. This was a collaboration in every sense of the word from start to finish. This was not a "throw us the keys and we'll do it all for you" type of project. They were very involved in every decision from architect plans all the way to bedside lamp placement. They had this land and former bungalow on a walkstreet in their beloved Hermosa Beach for over 30 years before they enlisted us to help them design and build their dream home. We worked with Lane Design Build and the client in wonderful harmony, and everyone is very pleased with the results.

Scott and Janet of Elgin have had four design to build renovations with Advance Design over the last decade. We got the chance to sit down and talk with Janet about her experience working with Advance Design on so many different areas of her home. Starting with her kitchen in 2009, Janet proclaimed, “The reason we kept coming back is because our first [renovation] went so extremely well, exceeding all of my expectations.” Since their kitchen renovation with Advance Design ten years ago, Scott and Janet have also worked with Advance to remodel their master bedroom, their power room, a wet bar, and most recently their master bath. Having renovated practically every major room in the house with the team, we asked Janet what made her experience with Advance Design so special. “We went with Advance Design because we trusted them so much more, their experience, and everything that they brought. We were confident they were giving us what we wanted for the money we were spending.” For their most recent renovation, Scott and Janet clearly knew what to expect going into their master bath renovation. They were familiar with Advance’s step by step design process that epitomizes the “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy applied in every project Advance creates. After once again experiencing the careful budgeting analysis, the pointed design meetings, and the clear documentation that leads up the a thoroughly managed installation, Janet’s simple summary of their experience is this; “The word I would use to describe the process is – collaboration!” Working closely with Advance Design kitchen designer Michelle Lecinski, together they were able to develop a new master bath design that not only worked with their investment goal, but also made sense for their lifestyle. “Oh Michelle, my designer! I connected with her immediately. She spent time getting to know us, our lifestyle, even the setting of our house.” The threesome had a great experience designing and producing yet another successful project together. When it came to their new project plans, Scott and Janet were interested in creating a relaxing “spa-like” experience in their master bath. One of the many ideas Michelle introduced during the design process was installing a Kohler Alteo series showerhead for a rain-like shower experience. This designer showerhead, mixed with the warm ambiance of the lighting and pebble accent running throughout the shower make for what Janet calls a “luxury spa essence”. From the oversized glass sliding door to the recessed niche for accessories, each special detail was considered and implemented intentionally so as to create the maximumly optimized use of the compact space. Not only was this transformation one of beauty and luxury, but special attention was given to every way possible to provide additional storage to maximize the functionality of the bath area as a whole. Once design was complete and the bath construction project began in their home, making sure everything happened efficiently and on schedule became new priority number one. “Having a project manager made an enormous difference,” Janet said, “It was so worth it to hire professionals that knew exactly what they were doing. Even after all of these years, I wouldn’t change a thing.” “It was a pleasure working together with Janet and Scott to create this beautiful space that will enhance their lives for many years,” says Michelle. “It is so much fun to get to do this job every day, I love that I can have this sort of impact on their lives by doing something for them [Janet & Scott] that comes so naturally to me!” After reviewing the long-term relationship with clients like Scott and Janet, owner Todd Jurs had this to say, “Clients returning and asking us to transform that next area of their home really warms my heart. It reaffirms that every decision to please clients no matter what is always the right choice, and that our honesty and integrity along with the immense collective talent of this team is recognized and appreciated by those who continue to return to us year after year.” He continued to say, “I always say how blessed we truly are to be able to do what we do, and experiences like this one put a smile on my face every time.”

Simple and straightforward with all the warmth that the word "home" implies. While Cherry cabinetry is sometimes considered formal, the loose rendition of a Hoosier cabinet is a showcase to serveware on the left, leaving the distinct impression that this kitchen is meant to be lived in and enjoyed. A fully functional island that mimics a farm table adds to the casual charm of Shaker style kitchen cabinets. Huxley door from Schrock in Cinnamon finish

This beautiful kitchen would make anyone never want to leave their cottage. Simple, elegant and airy would be the best way to describe this design. Timeless white shaker cabinets and dramatic quartz countertops make for a match made in heaven. Clean and fresh are words that come to mind for this large kitchen space. A peaceful, yet exciting flair of finishes create a comfortable environment suited for everyone. Simplistic and natural elements make this style absolutely timeless. A calming feeling takes over when entering a kitchen that reminds us all to relax and enjoy the sound of waves. Who wouldn’t want to do their dishes in this kitchen? Now that’s a statement you don’t hear everyday.

This beautiful kitchen would make anyone never want to leave their cottage. Simple, elegant and airy would be the best way to describe this design. Timeless white shaker cabinets and dramatic quartz countertops make for a match made in heaven. Clean and fresh are words that come to mind for this large kitchen space. A peaceful, yet exciting flair of finishes create a comfortable environment suited for everyone. Simplistic and natural elements make this style absolutely timeless. A calming feeling takes over when entering a kitchen that reminds us all to relax and enjoy the sound of waves. Who wouldn’t want to do their dishes in this kitchen? Now that’s a statement you don’t hear everyday.

Pallas' name was derived from the Greek word “pallô”, meaning spear. This sleek yet balanced fire feature is perfect for large gatherings and groups. Pallas linear fire pit comes complete with 190K BTU Manually Lit natural gas Linear Cross Fire Burner, flex line and key valve set. Black lava rock is included. Available in three concrete finish colors. Measures: 60"L X 24"W X 14"H, approximate weight 400 lbs.

The client challenged ARCA Unlimited to give his existing three-bedroom house in Southdowns an overhaul using as little construction as possible - to give the house, in the client’s own words, “Botox, not plastic surgery.” A less is more philosophy is central to this refurbishment. Living spaces are opened up to spill out onto the green zone in front of the house. The strategic demolition of carefully selected areas, such as, the fireplace, original kitchen, and room openings, coupled with the insertion of big stacking doors, make spaces appear larger and lighter. Downplaying the red Irene stone on the exterior gives the house a more elegant, simple look. Pergola structures integrate outdoor and indoor spaces; a connection that is fortified through the incorporation of landscaping elements.

The story of this home is very unassuming, but that was the objective, to create the most intuitive, discreet, thoughtful smart home possible for our client. The clients are very tech-savvy individuals, but not over the top. They knew what they wanted, and what they wanted was clean and reliable technology in their home. Simple as that. A complete smart home system built just for them, providing a seamless experience. Automated lighting and shades timed and tuned to their preferences, security and surveillance giving them 24/7 peace of mind, climate control always at the ideal temperature, and an audio/video system that is not only brilliant in sound, but modern, easy to control, and beautiful. Two words come to mind for these clients after the project was complete… “Welcome Home.”

Alpine, funk, gezellig - these words drove the design direction of this modern ski chalet. To emphasize the high ceilings and huge windows, a simple color palette of a custom black, white and whitewashed wood were incorporated, along with calculated hits of color and pattern. A reverse floor plan, with the kitchen and living room on the third floor, highlight the importance of the two spaces where the family spends most of their time together. Here, windows surround the space on all four sides providing ample natural light. A large, stoic fireplace is balanced with a not so basic Ikea sectional covered in a playful, funky, custom designed fabric based off of a 16th century Dutch painting. Function and durability reign supreme in the entrance and bedrooms, where rubber flooring was used for use with wet snow gear and bunks were installed for ultimate sleepover and mountain vibes. Through layered textures, a high contrast palette and unconventional design elements, this ski chalet is anything but ordinary. Interior Design: Casework General Contractor: Ethan Beck Homes Architect: Keystone Architecture Photography: Mikola Accuardi Press: Dwell, Sunset, Schoolhouse Best 9, Schoolhouse, Contemportist, Uncrate On the Blog: Custom Floral Fabric, Big Dreams of a Small Chalet

Gorgeous, clean, simple - a few words to describe this fantastic kitchen remodel! This is a very functional kitchen and GREAT for entertaining! Beautiful finishes, great layout!

Example of a farmhouse exterior home design in Birmingham

Five words: it’s all about the glass. Vintage takes its cues from antique power-pole insulator glass. We make beautiful pieces of recycled glass in vintage spiral or fluted shapes and pair them with our simple chrome fixtures. It’s just the right amount of vintage and modern in one sleek, eco-friendly package. Overall Dimensions: 6.625 "Ext. x 21 "W x 12.125 "H

These two though.... This retired "simple beach couple" are a couple of our faves. This was a collaboration in every sense of the word from start to finish. This was not a "throw us the keys and we'll do it all for you" type of project. They were very involved in every decision from architect plans all the way to bedside lamp placement. They had this land and former bungalow on a walkstreet in their beloved Hermosa Beach for over 30 years before they enlisted us to help them design and build their dream home. We worked with Lane Design Build and the client in wonderful harmony, and everyone is very pleased with the results.

The client challenged ARCA Unlimited to give his existing three-bedroom house in Southdowns an overhaul using as little construction as possible - to give the house, in the client’s own words, “Botox, not plastic surgery.” A less is more philosophy is central to this refurbishment. Living spaces are opened up to spill out onto the green zone in front of the house. The strategic demolition of carefully selected areas, such as, the fireplace, original kitchen, and room openings, coupled with the insertion of big stacking doors, make spaces appear larger and lighter. Downplaying the red Irene stone on the exterior gives the house a more elegant, simple look. Pergola structures integrate outdoor and indoor spaces; a connection that is fortified through the incorporation of landscaping elements.

The Elivia 2HS (two horizontal stripes) model, a fully integrated member of this interior door collection, was inspired by a sign in musical notation called longa, which consisted of two parallel horizontal lines framed by two vertical stems. It was widely used in the Middle Ages as a symbol for a quadruple whole note (which is a pretty long note, you might say): a note so perfectly placed and of such celestial sound one didn't want it ever to end. What does this have to do with interior doors? Simple: as a timely longa summarized and harmonized the entire music piece for the listener, so will the interior door model you see before you give impart a perfect overall harmony to your decor. It will invite you to enjoy the moment for as long as possible. It is amiable and soothing. As all interior door models in the Elivia collection, this one is highly elegant and easy on the eyes. It comes in a great variety of finishes and in all standard configurations. Custom sizes are also available: just say the word.

This beautiful kitchen would make anyone never want to leave their cottage. Simple, elegant and airy would be the best way to describe this design. Timeless white shaker cabinets and dramatic quartz countertops make for a match made in heaven. Clean and fresh are words that come to mind for this large kitchen space. A peaceful, yet exciting flair of finishes create a comfortable environment suited for everyone. Simplistic and natural elements make this style absolutely timeless. A calming feeling takes over when entering a kitchen that reminds us all to relax and enjoy the sound of waves. Who wouldn’t want to do their dishes in this kitchen? Now that’s a statement you don’t hear everyday.