A fresh start created a connected space that makes sense in this Arlington (Shirlington), VA condo. The old kitchen was tired and outdated and felt cut off from the rest of the living area. The homeowner's collection of glassware and art was lost in the busyness. While the footprint remained essentially the same, smart touches were added throughout to maximize the functionality and aesthetic. The manmade Quartz counter material continued up the walls for a stunning backsplash look. An enlarged cabinet above the refrigerator transformed that space from unused to functional. An LG double oven range was added to the space of a conventional range. Giant drawers in the peninsula make accessing sullies a breeze. On the back of the peninsula, a cabinet was added in previously wasted space. The cabinetry is Durasupreme with a shaker door style. The lowers are a Lucious Cherry in Dark Stain and the uppers are painted a soft grey. The hardwood floors from the main living area are now carried into the kitchen. New Led slim profile lighting, including stunning geometric LED pendants brighten up the space. The result is a bright kitchen that cohesively brings the living space together and highlights the homeowner’s collected art and glassware.

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting. The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet. Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background. The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting. The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet. Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background. The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

THE SETUP Initially, the kitchen in this prestigious Chicago Gold Coast residence lacked the sophistication and allure that our client desired. With a passion for marble and a vision for a space that would be as suitable for daily use as it was for entertaining, the homeowner sought a transformation that would introduce elegance and drama into the heart of her home. Design Objectives: Introduce opulent marble countertops to create a striking focal point Install a comprehensive high backsplash for continuity and luxe impact Update the range hood with a design that commands attention Refresh the cabinetry with a brighter, more modern finish. THE REMODEL Design Challenges: The quest for the ideal marble slabs was extensive and challenging. Our mission: find the right slabs and match them The homeowner’s preference against metal hoods prompted a creative redesign Design Solutions: We selected exquisite Calacatta Viola marble slabs that encapsulate the desired impact and drama A bespoke marble hood was crafted, serving as a unique and sophisticated component that complements the overall design THE RENEWED SPACE The transformation of this kitchen is nothing short of remarkable. Transitioning from a space that once felt underwhelming to one that exudes boldness and beauty, it now perfectly reflects the elegance and taste of its discerning owner. More than just a kitchen, it’s become a centerpiece for the home, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere for both everyday moments and grand entertaining. It now stands as a testament to timeless design and the unique vision of its homeowner.

Wallpaper Installation – Ceiling in Northbrook Elevate your fifth wall with stunning ceiling wallpaper installation in Northbrook. As your local wallpaper specialist, I create breathtaking overhead statements that transform ordinary rooms into extraordinary spaces with: ✔ Ceiling-Specific Expertise Lightweight vinyl wallpaper designed for overhead application Specialized adhesives for secure, long-lasting holds Precise pattern alignment for visual continuity ✔ Northbrook-Approved Solutions Architectural-grade materials for Chicagoland homes Fade-resistant finishes for sunlit rooms Low-VOC options for family-safe installations ✔ Signature Ceiling Services Tray ceiling treatments with dimensional effects Coffered ceiling enhancements Wallpaper repair for existing installations Why Northbrook Homeowners Choose Us: ✔ Scaffold-Free Installation – Specialized equipment for minimal disruption ✔ Free Design Consultation – Digital previews of your ceiling design ✔ HOA Compliance Knowledge – Understanding local community standards ✔ 1-Day Transformations – Most projects completed same-day Popular Northbrook Ceiling Styles: • Classic Elegance – Subtle damask or metallic patterns • Modern Drama – Bold geometrics or oversized florals • Nature Inspired – Cloudscapes or celestial designs • Architectural Enhancement – Faux tin tile or wood beam effects Serving All of Northbrook – From Techny to Downtown high-rises.

Every element of this kitchen remodel was purposefully planned to give these homeowners a classic yet modern farmhouse feeling. The white shaker cabinets, rustic wood accents, shiplap detailing, and subway tile backsplash give this kitchen a timeless appeal. We layered modern details including black gridded windows, and matte black fixtures and hardware. The L-shape layout of the kitchen makes daily use and entertaining a breeze. The expansive 9-foot island provides generous counterspace, extensive storage, and a place for guests or children to gather round. Numerous windows allow for an abundance of natural light and captivating panoramic views. These distinctive elements enhance the overall allure of this design. Throughout the base cabinets, we chose custom organization solutions to maximize the function and capacity of the lower cabinets. Modern white appliances with brushed bronze hardware give the kitchen a clean and uninterrupted look. Barn light fixtures bring a touch of farmhouse flair. A striking yet subtle veined quartz carries the light and airy feeling throughout the kitchen and are incredibly durable for this young family. Updated flooring, windows, and fixtures, along with a fresh coat of paint throughout the home create a seamless renovation that brings continuity from one space to the next. New rustic exterior doors tie in with the wood elements of the kitchen & the hand-hewn beams that partition the open concept. The fireplace in the family room was entirely renovated as well, featuring custom built-ins on either side, a brick tile surround, and knotty alder mantel. These elements come together to provide the warmth and coziness this family wanted. The shiplap detailing in the built-ins and above the fireplace add to the collective farmhouse charm.

This kitchen isn’t just a pretty face—it’s built to perform! Think maxed-out storage, a massive island that does it all, bold finishes, and plenty of room to breathe. Want your kitchen to do more? Here are ways to get the most out of your space: Take cabinets all the way up—more storage, less clutter. Use your island for seating, prep, and storage. Mix light and dark finishes for a modern, balanced look. We also added open shelving. Open shelving isn't just about storage—it’s about creating a stunning focal point that breathes life into your kitchen! Here, we designed custom floating shelves that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding space, thanks to a striking backsplash tile that continues from the kitchen walls. The result? A cohesive, elevated aesthetic that balances both beauty and practicality. Maximize your open shelving with these design tips: Curate with intention – Display a mix of functional and decorative pieces to create visual interest: cookbooks, plateware, and art. Stick to a color palette – Keep it cohesive by coordinating dishware, frames, and accessories. Layer textures – Combine ceramics, glass, and natural elements like wood or greenery for added depth. Prioritize accessibility – Keep everyday essentials within reach while showcasing special pieces up top.

A fresh start created a connected space that makes sense in this Arlington (Shirlington), VA condo. The old kitchen was tired and outdated and felt cut off from the rest of the living area. The homeowner's collection of glassware and art was lost in the busyness. While the footprint remained essentially the same, smart touches were added throughout to maximize the functionality and aesthetic. The manmade Quartz counter material continued up the walls for a stunning backsplash look. An enlarged cabinet above the refrigerator transformed that space from unused to functional. An LG double oven range was added to the space of a conventional range. Giant drawers in the peninsula make accessing sullies a breeze. On the back of the peninsula, a cabinet was added in previously wasted space. The cabinetry is Durasupreme with a shaker door style. The lowers are a Lucious Cherry in Dark Stain and the uppers are painted a soft grey. The hardwood floors from the main living area are now carried into the kitchen. New Led slim profile lighting, including stunning geometric LED pendants brighten up the space. The result is a bright kitchen that cohesively brings the living space together and highlights the homeowner’s collected art and glassware.

THE SETUP Initially, the kitchen in this prestigious Chicago Gold Coast residence lacked the sophistication and allure that our client desired. With a passion for marble and a vision for a space that would be as suitable for daily use as it was for entertaining, the homeowner sought a transformation that would introduce elegance and drama into the heart of her home. Design Objectives: Introduce opulent marble countertops to create a striking focal point Install a comprehensive high backsplash for continuity and luxe impact Update the range hood with a design that commands attention Refresh the cabinetry with a brighter, more modern finish. THE REMODEL Design Challenges: The quest for the ideal marble slabs was extensive and challenging. Our mission: find the right slabs and match them The homeowner’s preference against metal hoods prompted a creative redesign Design Solutions: We selected exquisite Calacatta Viola marble slabs that encapsulate the desired impact and drama A bespoke marble hood was crafted, serving as a unique and sophisticated component that complements the overall design THE RENEWED SPACE The transformation of this kitchen is nothing short of remarkable. Transitioning from a space that once felt underwhelming to one that exudes boldness and beauty, it now perfectly reflects the elegance and taste of its discerning owner. More than just a kitchen, it’s become a centerpiece for the home, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere for both everyday moments and grand entertaining. It now stands as a testament to timeless design and the unique vision of its homeowner.

Primary Bathroom Remodel – Material & Design Details Vanity & Cabinetry: Custom Canyon Creek cabinetry featuring frameless Equinox doors in Beech wood with a Veil stain finish. Hardware includes wrought iron pulls with grey leather accents. Countertops are Amazing Grey marble. Plumbing Fixtures: Kohler fixtures sourced from Martz Supply – Solutions Kitchen and Bath. Shower Design: Shower walls feature Tilebar Enso Ribbed Charcoal 24"x48" tile (approximately 150 sq. ft.) installed per layout plan with Dove Grey grout (1/16") and black Schluter trim. Custom glass shower enclosure cut to accommodate built-in benches. Bench & Tile Detailing: Bench fronts are wrapped with cut pieces of the back wall tile to maintain continuous pattern alignment. Benches extend fully to the edge of the 39" wall for a seamless finish. Soffit Detail: Soffit dimensioned at 11-7/8" above glass to allow two full 48" tile pieces to align on back and side walls. Soffit finished in drywall and painted to match wall color. Niche Detail: Back of niche features a 24"x24" cut piece of wall tile. Sides finished in matching wall tile. Bottom shelf in marble with Schluter edging. Plumbing Layout: Valve centered on back shower wall for balanced symmetry.

This kitchen isn’t just a pretty face—it’s built to perform! Think maxed-out storage, a massive island that does it all, bold finishes, and plenty of room to breathe. Want your kitchen to do more? Here are ways to get the most out of your space: Take cabinets all the way up—more storage, less clutter. Use your island for seating, prep, and storage. Mix light and dark finishes for a modern, balanced look. We also added open shelving. Open shelving isn't just about storage—it’s about creating a stunning focal point that breathes life into your kitchen! Here, we designed custom floating shelves that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding space, thanks to a striking backsplash tile that continues from the kitchen walls. The result? A cohesive, elevated aesthetic that balances both beauty and practicality. Maximize your open shelving with these design tips: Curate with intention – Display a mix of functional and decorative pieces to create visual interest: cookbooks, plateware, and art. Stick to a color palette – Keep it cohesive by coordinating dishware, frames, and accessories. Layer textures – Combine ceramics, glass, and natural elements like wood or greenery for added depth. Prioritize accessibility – Keep everyday essentials within reach while showcasing special pieces up top.

Upper Valley Estate Curb Appeal – El Paso, Texas This curb appeal transformation was conceived as a deliberate sequence—an arrival experience where architecture, landscape, and lighting work together as one. Every element was designed to honor the home’s stone construction, turreted forms, and Old World character while responding precisely to the Upper Valley climate and lifestyle. By day, the experience is grounded and composed. Brick-edged concrete drives establish order and permanence, guiding movement through the property with clarity and intention. Natural stone walls and columns anchor the architecture, while layered gravel beds, drought-tolerant plantings, and manicured turf soften transitions and connect the home to its desert setting. Mature trees were preserved and carefully integrated, providing scale, shade, and a sense of continuity. As afternoon shifts toward sunset, the materials begin to speak differently. Stone warms, textures deepen, and sightlines subtly draw the eye toward the front entry. The landscape narrows the focus, creating a moment of pause before arrival—calm, quiet, and refined. At night, the design reveals its final layer. Low-voltage lighting is integrated with precision, washing stone surfaces, tracing architectural curves, and uplighting specimen trees to create depth without glare. The drive, walkways, and entry feel safe, legible, and inviting, while the home itself glows with a restrained elegance. Coming home after dark feels intentional—protected, welcoming, and unmistakably yours. What was created is more than curb appeal. It is a cohesive design-build solution where nothing is ornamental without purpose and nothing is built without intention. A daily experience of arrival that reflects craftsmanship, care, and the enduring character of the Upper Valley.

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting. The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet. Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background. The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting. The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet. Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background. The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

u2014 ALE: Wayne Rain Garden Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association u2014 ALE: Wayne Rain Garden Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence winner Category: Residential Up to $15,000 Award Level: Gold Project Description: Our company was contracted by the client to provide a creative solution to an ongoing drainage problem. Their property is located within 30 feet of a local stream that collects storm water from the surrounding area. The nearby stream and high water table caused the lawn area at the side of their home to flood and to remain waterlogged for a few days after each storm. The client not only had difficulty growing plants in the existing conditions, but also had a problem with mosquitoes due to standing water. Our goal was to design a self-contained, naturalistic rain garden that slowed storm water runoff, allowed for percolation, and promoted infiltration while permitting excess clean water to enter the nearby stream with diminished force. As designed, the rain garden allows the earth to slowly and more naturally absorb excess storm water while filtering out toxins such as excess nitrogen and phosphorous which are frequently found in the landscape, therefore reducing the contaminants entering the stream. A percolation test was conducted with criteria of absorbing a one-inch rainstorm within four hours without overflow. The one-inch storm calculation included an existing downspout from the home, which would be piped into the rain garden to reduce roof runoff. The first test failed due to a deep layer of high clay-content soil. Excavation continued until a layer of sandy loam was reached, the percolation test was repeated, and a successful test result was achieved. Next, the entire rain garden basin was excavated to the sandy loam layer and the soil amended with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media. Geotextile fabric was placed to help reduce migration of the surface stone into the soil and allow for minimal maintenance. Gravel, river stone and small boulders were carefully placed to achieve the look of a natural streambed. A palette of mostly native plants with a few non-invasive ornamentals were chosen for their ability to survive in extreme conditions ranging from floods to drought and were placed according to their specific preferences. Wetland plants were chosen for the lowest portion of the rain garden as that area remains saturated for longer periods of time, with a Chionanthus virginicus as a focal point surrounded by irises and ferns at the lowest depth. Plants tolerant of drier conditions were chosen for the upper edges of the garden. The beautiful colors of Monarda, Ligularia, Eupatorium, Solidago, Chelone, and Rudbeckia were scattered within the upper edge, while movement and softness were incorporated by use of the graceful Nassella that lines the border. Finally, winter interest was provided with a backdrop of Cornus sericea. As built, this small rain garden creates tremendous impact by decreasing the amount of storm water runoff not only on our client's property, but also in the neighboring stream. It serves as a means of slowing the water and providing an area for infiltration back into the earth. The plants provide a habitat for birds, butterflies, and insects, working in harmony with nature and providing beautiful visual interest year-round. Photo Credit: Lisa C. Falls

Small elegant gray one-story mixed siding gable roof photo in Charleston

Historical Renovation Objective: The homeowners asked us to join the project after partial demo and construction was in full swing. Their desire was to significantly enlarge and update the charming mid-century modern home to meet the needs of their joined families and frequent social gatherings. It was critical though that the expansion be seamless between old and new, where one feels as if the home “has always been this way”. Solution: We created spaces within rooms that allowed family to gather and socialize freely or allow for private conversations. As constant entertainers, the couple wanted easier access to their favorite wines than having to go to the basement cellar. A custom glass and stainless steel wine cellar was created where bottles seem to float in the space between the dining room and kitchen area. A nineteen foot long island dominates the great room as well as any social gathering where it is generally spread from end to end with food and surrounded by friends and family. Aside of the master suite, three oversized bedrooms each with a large en suite bath provide plenty of space for kids returning from college and frequent visits from friends and family. A neutral color palette was chosen throughout to bring warmth into the space but not fight with the clients’ collections of art, antique rugs and furnishings. Soaring ceiling, windows and huge sliding doors bring the naturalness of the large wooded lot inside while lots of natural wood and stone was used to further complement the outdoors and their love of nature. Outside, a large ground level fire-pit surrounded by comfortable chairs is another favorite gathering spot.

Green Home Systems provides reliable solar power solutions to residential and commercial customers all over the country. Recently, we had the opportunity to work with Bruce D. in Jacksonville, IL to provide a 19kW solar system for his home. We were able to complete this job quickly and efficiently, delivering a high quality product at an affordable price. At Green Home Systems, our mission is to provide our customers with the best customer service in the industry as well as unparalleled solar solutions at the most economical price. We understand that not everyone can afford large upfront costs associated with installing solar systems and we are proud to offer competitive financing options that make it easier for our customers to go solar without breaking the bank. This was certainly true for Bruce D., who took advantage of our financing options and was able to have his new solar system installed within a couple of weeks time. Our team worked hard to ensure everything went smoothly when installing Bruce’s new system. We began by inspecting his roof to determine if it was suitable for installation and if there were any potential problems that needed addressing before beginning work. Once we determined everything was in order we then moved on to designing and installing the system itself. Our team of experienced professionals worked diligently to ensure each component was installed properly and securely so that it would be able to withstand years of exposure to the elements without issue. We also made sure that Bruce was aware of all the financial benefits associated with having a photovoltaic system installed on his home. He was now able to take advantage of numerous tax credits available in Illinois as well as decreased utility bills due to reduced consumption from his local electricity provider. Additionally, he will be able to increase the value of his home by having a solar power system installed which will make it more attractive should he decide he wants to sell it down the line. In conclusion, we are proud of our work with Bruce D. in Jacksonville, IL and were happy to provide him with an efficient and cost-effective way to add renewable energy sources into his home’s power grid. Our team worked diligently throughout every stage of this project from design through installation until completion and we are thrilled with the results. We look forward to continuing our work throughout Illinois providing reliable solar solutions at competitive prices so that more people can benefit from this clean source of energy!

Green Home Systems provides reliable solar power solutions to residential and commercial customers all over the country. Recently, we had the opportunity to work with Bruce D. in Jacksonville, IL to provide a 19kW solar system for his home. We were able to complete this job quickly and efficiently, delivering a high quality product at an affordable price. At Green Home Systems, our mission is to provide our customers with the best customer service in the industry as well as unparalleled solar solutions at the most economical price. We understand that not everyone can afford large upfront costs associated with installing solar systems and we are proud to offer competitive financing options that make it easier for our customers to go solar without breaking the bank. This was certainly true for Bruce D., who took advantage of our financing options and was able to have his new solar system installed within a couple of weeks time. Our team worked hard to ensure everything went smoothly when installing Bruce’s new system. We began by inspecting his roof to determine if it was suitable for installation and if there were any potential problems that needed addressing before beginning work. Once we determined everything was in order we then moved on to designing and installing the system itself. Our team of experienced professionals worked diligently to ensure each component was installed properly and securely so that it would be able to withstand years of exposure to the elements without issue. We also made sure that Bruce was aware of all the financial benefits associated with having a photovoltaic system installed on his home. He was now able to take advantage of numerous tax credits available in Illinois as well as decreased utility bills due to reduced consumption from his local electricity provider. Additionally, he will be able to increase the value of his home by having a solar power system installed which will make it more attractive should he decide he wants to sell it down the line. In conclusion, we are proud of our work with Bruce D. in Jacksonville, IL and were happy to provide him with an efficient and cost-effective way to add renewable energy sources into his home’s power grid. Our team worked diligently throughout every stage of this project from design through installation until completion and we are thrilled with the results. We look forward to continuing our work throughout Illinois providing reliable solar solutions at competitive prices so that more people can benefit from this clean source of energy!