Ann Marie and Mike loved their home and their neighborhood in Holly Springs NC. They had been living there for ten years, but their Master Bath had become outdated and uninspiring. They had a large Jacuzzi garden tub that was never used and took up a lot of floor space. Their shower was outdated and felt small and there was nowhere to put all of the shampoo bottles and shower accessories. They longed for a larger shower and a warm and inviting space. The look and feel of a Spa Bathroom appealed to them, so we got to work. Our solution was to remove the Jacuzzi tub, the old shower, the plain white double vanity and all of the lighting and tile, and start over. We combined the space taken up by the old shower and tub and created a large continuous shower space. We added a half-wall tiled on both sides, with several large “shampoo nooks” inside the shower to hold all of the shower accessories and keep them hidden from sight. A frameless “Rain Glass” shower wall added a measure of privacy. We built a tiled seat just outside the shower enclosure that served as a “drying area”, and added a small tiled foot rest in one corner of the shower for ease of shaving. The multi-purpose shower fixtures included a large overhead “Rain Head”, and a hand-held shower head on a slide bar for showering or hand-held use. We next designed and installed a wall-mounted double vanity, with a storage tower in the middle for storing and hiding every day accessories. The wall hung mirrors, ceiling can lights, and a pendant light over each sink rounded out the amenities. A special touch to the granite counter top was added to hold a hand or shower towel. The warm rich tones of the porcelain tile with generous accents and the exquisite natural pebble shower floor added pizzazz and the “Wow” factor we were looking for. The earth tone color palette accented the rich dark wood of the vanity beautifully. Ann Marie’s and Mike’s new Spa Bath is now a special space and luxurious retreat that they forward to using every day!

Light, bright and inviting, a beautiful entertainer’s kitchen that combines modern features with beachside characteristics. The open-plan layout connecting with a long Island bench, perfect when you need extra space to prepare a meal, it doubles as casual dining space for guests to eat around or enjoy a glass of wine while having a chat. Striking pendant lighting draws the eye towards the spectacular white profile joinery, that actually works to reflect natural lighting and maximise window views. The blue tone acts as a sophisticated backdrop, a statement against the stone countertop leading up and into the splash back, engineered stone in Casablanca form Stone Ambassador helps to open the space and creates the illusion of a larger area. White leather bar stools are a great casual seating option, and a contrast to the "Dulux Sharp Blue” colour palette used on the Island cabinetry. Smartly positioned bar is a nice addition in this entertainer's space, creating an elegant and also practical storage solution, kept away from plain sight but nearby and handy when situations call for a celebration or a relaxing sip before bed. This cleverly designed area is complete with wine fridge, wine rack and shelves for storage. The Ultimate adjoining laundry flowing directly from the kitchen, it’s vital that the design is both practical and functional. Materials continue into this space with the exception of the splash back, the use of textured tiles in a herringbone pattern adds an extra eye-catching element to this desirable laundry space. Ample storage is necessary in your laundry, this space includes a combination of cupboards, overhead, drawers and bench top space, and the inclusion of tall cupboards allowing you to store brooms, mops and vacuum cleaners out of sight. Elements of blue that echo the outside connecting the kitchen and garden, allowing a free- flowing design and plenty of natural light, throw open the doors and straight onto the pool.

For our #ElegantlyModernMakeover project in Holmdel, the client wanted something that felt modern and luxurious, a space that exuded a rich feeling of grandeur without going too over the top. I opted for a range of opulent grays mixed with metallic touches to give the room that added touch of glam. For the paint color, Sherwin Williams Zircon was the perfect match – a neutral gray that’s not too light, not too dark. A luxurious custom bedding ensemble was created using Eastern Accents Hendrix collection as a starting point. The duvet material was changed to the darker shade, “Idris Fog”. The palette was further juxtaposed with cushions and shams that ranged from deep charcoals to rich rippled patterns that shimmered with metallic finishes. To bring everything together, the Eastern Accents bed frame was customized in a muted gray velvet complete with a nailhead trim. At the foot of the bed, we continued with our gray palette featured in the bedding with a custom bench in Velda Charcoal from Eastern Accents. The deep shade of brown in the side tables from Magnussen contrasted with the lightness of the Surya shag rug. No room is complete without a bold table lamp and I couldn’t look past the modern pair from Uttermost that really tied the entire look together. For the seating area, atop the same style of rug that was used under the bed, we completed the space with two chaise lounges from Rowe in a Smoke shade, separated by two ottoman’s from Rowe in Pepper. The room was flooded with lots of natural light that I really wanted to capitalize on, so a floor length shade over allures was a perfect solution. Floor length panels in JF Fabric’s Liberty material over Lafayette Genesis Shades in Pearlescent Glacier gave the windows a sense of grandeur. They were finished with a rod from the Dec & Deco Acrylic Collection in Brushed Nickel, complete with a crystal finial.

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island. Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair. “We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia. The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design. “When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.” Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space. The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace. The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said. “Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

We used: Custom cherry cabinetry in Arts & Crafts Shaker style by Kabinart in Boulder and Espresso stains. Liberty Hardware Venetian bronze 1-1/2" cabinet knobs. KitchenAid Architect II Series 22 CF counter-depth French door refrigerator. KitchenAid Architect Series II 27" convection single wall oven. KitchenAid 36" 6-burner dual fuel freestanding commercial-style range. KitchenAid Architect II Series 24" dishwasher. Sharp Insight Pro Series 24" built-in microwave drawer (Model #KB6524PS). Crystorama Solaris 12" wide pendant lights in English bronze. Granite countertops in Brown Fantasy. 3"x6" polished marble backsplash. Paint colors: Walls: Glidden Silver Cloud 30YY 63/024 Ceilings/Trims/Doors: Glidden Swan White GLC23 Robert B. Narod Photography

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island. Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair. “We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia. The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design. “When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.” Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space. The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace. The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said. “Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

“House with the Common View,” Wallingford AWARDS: Best of Wallingford, Built Green Hammer Award Description Artistic, sustainable addition to a small Wallingford bungalow which was necessary to allow a growing family to continue to thrive in a neighborhood that they love. Challenge Growing family needed more space but they didn’t want to move. They knew that they would have to build up but don’t want to block views or ruin the experience for their neighbor friends. Because of the size and shape of the lot, there were also permitting and structuring challenges. Inspiration We found inspiration in the family and their commitment to the place, neighborhood and friends. We wanted to create a house that is not only functional and respectful of the neighbor’s view, but that actually gives back to the neighborhood. We had to lean in hard in the design process to pull all of that off. Solutions + Innovations We engaged in a meticulous design process included literal “boots on the ground” elements like standing on the property with sticks to measure the neighbor’s view. We not only maintained that view but enhanced it by giving the neighbors a view of green roof gardens on 4 sides of the house. To support that work, we had to rebuild the foundation. As an amenity for the neighborhood at large, we created a rain path that channeled into living wall and structured rain garden that was adjacent to the sidewalk. How is it sustainable? We salvaged or repurposed all of the materials that we could, including salvaging painted shingles on from house and repurposing them for a tiny play house (which also has a green roof). The old beams from basement became a cabinet in the new bathroom. We also used orchard-salvaged walnut which matched the horizontal grain already existing in the kitchen. We economized on space, saving the footprint on the main floor, and only added 600 feet upstairs which house two bedrooms and one batch. We used casework to create walls, used the stairs for part of the cabinets, and built walk-n cabinets, creating adaptable space for long term needs. More adaptable space included a sharable bathroom/wetroom which is functional for both adults and kids. We developed a green roof system, rain gardens, and a green wall along sidewalk. We took the opportunity to improve the envelope, insulating outside the building before the siding went back on. We also incorporated solar into the design, created the opportunity for natural daylighting all day on upper level and stairwell, as well as using resin-based eco countertops.

Ann Marie and Mike loved their home and their neighborhood in Holly Springs NC. They had been living there for ten years, but their Master Bath had become outdated and uninspiring. They had a large Jacuzzi garden tub that was never used and took up a lot of floor space. Their shower was outdated and felt small and there was nowhere to put all of the shampoo bottles and shower accessories. They longed for a larger shower and a warm and inviting space. The look and feel of a Spa Bathroom appealed to them, so we got to work. Our solution was to remove the Jacuzzi tub, the old shower, the plain white double vanity and all of the lighting and tile, and start over. We combined the space taken up by the old shower and tub and created a large continuous shower space. We added a half-wall tiled on both sides, with several large “shampoo nooks” inside the shower to hold all of the shower accessories and keep them hidden from sight. A frameless “Rain Glass” shower wall added a measure of privacy. We built a tiled seat just outside the shower enclosure that served as a “drying area”, and added a small tiled foot rest in one corner of the shower for ease of shaving. The multi-purpose shower fixtures included a large overhead “Rain Head”, and a hand-held shower head on a slide bar for showering or hand-held use. We next designed and installed a wall-mounted double vanity, with a storage tower in the middle for storing and hiding every day accessories. The wall hung mirrors, ceiling can lights, and a pendant light over each sink rounded out the amenities. A special touch to the granite counter top was added to hold a hand or shower towel. The warm rich tones of the porcelain tile with generous accents and the exquisite natural pebble shower floor added pizzazz and the “Wow” factor we were looking for. The earth tone color palette accented the rich dark wood of the vanity beautifully. Ann Marie’s and Mike’s new Spa Bath is now a special space and luxurious retreat that they forward to using every day!

Context Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient. They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible. Response The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy. Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation. The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view. A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.

Context Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient. They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible. Response The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy. Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation. The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view. A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.

Light, bright and inviting, a beautiful entertainer’s kitchen that combines modern features with beachside characteristics. The open-plan layout connecting with a long Island bench, perfect when you need extra space to prepare a meal, it doubles as casual dining space for guests to eat around or enjoy a glass of wine while having a chat. Striking pendant lighting draws the eye towards the spectacular white profile joinery, that actually works to reflect natural lighting and maximise window views. The blue tone acts as a sophisticated backdrop, a statement against the stone countertop leading up and into the splash back, engineered stone in Casablanca form Stone Ambassador helps to open the space and creates the illusion of a larger area. White leather bar stools are a great casual seating option, and a contrast to the "Dulux Sharp Blue” colour palette used on the Island cabinetry. Smartly positioned bar is a nice addition in this entertainer's space, creating an elegant and also practical storage solution, kept away from plain sight but nearby and handy when situations call for a celebration or a relaxing sip before bed. This cleverly designed area is complete with wine fridge, wine rack and shelves for storage. The Ultimate adjoining laundry flowing directly from the kitchen, it’s vital that the design is both practical and functional. Materials continue into this space with the exception of the splash back, the use of textured tiles in a herringbone pattern adds an extra eye-catching element to this desirable laundry space. Ample storage is necessary in your laundry, this space includes a combination of cupboards, overhead, drawers and bench top space, and the inclusion of tall cupboards allowing you to store brooms, mops and vacuum cleaners out of sight. Elements of blue that echo the outside connecting the kitchen and garden, allowing a free- flowing design and plenty of natural light, throw open the doors and straight onto the pool.

Light, bright and inviting, a beautiful entertainer’s kitchen that combines modern features with beachside characteristics. The open-plan layout connecting with a long Island bench, perfect when you need extra space to prepare a meal, it doubles as casual dining space for guests to eat around or enjoy a glass of wine while having a chat. Striking pendant lighting draws the eye towards the spectacular white profile joinery, that actually works to reflect natural lighting and maximise window views. The blue tone acts as a sophisticated backdrop, a statement against the stone countertop leading up and into the splash back, engineered stone in Casablanca form Stone Ambassador helps to open the space and creates the illusion of a larger area. White leather bar stools are a great casual seating option, and a contrast to the "Dulux Sharp Blue” colour palette used on the Island cabinetry. Smartly positioned bar is a nice addition in this entertainer's space, creating an elegant and also practical storage solution, kept away from plain sight but nearby and handy when situations call for a celebration or a relaxing sip before bed. This cleverly designed area is complete with wine fridge, wine rack and shelves for storage. The Ultimate adjoining laundry flowing directly from the kitchen, it’s vital that the design is both practical and functional. Materials continue into this space with the exception of the splash back, the use of textured tiles in a herringbone pattern adds an extra eye-catching element to this desirable laundry space. Ample storage is necessary in your laundry, this space includes a combination of cupboards, overhead, drawers and bench top space, and the inclusion of tall cupboards allowing you to store brooms, mops and vacuum cleaners out of sight. Elements of blue that echo the outside connecting the kitchen and garden, allowing a free- flowing design and plenty of natural light, throw open the doors and straight onto the pool.

“House with the Common View,” Wallingford AWARDS: Best of Wallingford, Built Green Hammer Award Description Artistic, sustainable addition to a small Wallingford bungalow which was necessary to allow a growing family to continue to thrive in a neighborhood that they love. Challenge Growing family needed more space but they didn’t want to move. They knew that they would have to build up but don’t want to block views or ruin the experience for their neighbor friends. Because of the size and shape of the lot, there were also permitting and structuring challenges. Inspiration We found inspiration in the family and their commitment to the place, neighborhood and friends. We wanted to create a house that is not only functional and respectful of the neighbor’s view, but that actually gives back to the neighborhood. We had to lean in hard in the design process to pull all of that off. Solutions + Innovations We engaged in a meticulous design process included literal “boots on the ground” elements like standing on the property with sticks to measure the neighbor’s view. We not only maintained that view but enhanced it by giving the neighbors a view of green roof gardens on 4 sides of the house. To support that work, we had to rebuild the foundation. As an amenity for the neighborhood at large, we created a rain path that channeled into living wall and structured rain garden that was adjacent to the sidewalk. How is it sustainable? We salvaged or repurposed all of the materials that we could, including salvaging painted shingles on from house and repurposing them for a tiny play house (which also has a green roof). The old beams from basement became a cabinet in the new bathroom. We also used orchard-salvaged walnut which matched the horizontal grain already existing in the kitchen. We economized on space, saving the footprint on the main floor, and only added 600 feet upstairs which house two bedrooms and one batch. We used casework to create walls, used the stairs for part of the cabinets, and built walk-n cabinets, creating adaptable space for long term needs. More adaptable space included a sharable bathroom/wetroom which is functional for both adults and kids. We developed a green roof system, rain gardens, and a green wall along sidewalk. We took the opportunity to improve the envelope, insulating outside the building before the siding went back on. We also incorporated solar into the design, created the opportunity for natural daylighting all day on upper level and stairwell, as well as using resin-based eco countertops.

Context Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient. They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible. Response The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy. Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation. The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view. A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures. Photo credit Chris Smith

The client purchased this property with grand plans of renovating the entire place; from top to bottom, and from inside to outside. And while the inside canvas was very generous and even somewhat forgiving, the outside space would be anything but. We wanted to squeeze in as much seating space as possible in their limited courtyard area, without encroaching on the already compact-sized pool. The first and most obvious solution was to get rid of the trees and shrubs that separated this house from its zero-lot-line neighbor. With the addition of Lueder limestone slabs, this alone would free up nearly 120 additional square feet, which happened to be the perfect amount of space for a mobile gas fire pit and sectional sofa. And all of this would make for the perfect place to enjoy the afternoon sunset with the implementation of a custom-built metal pergola standing above it all. The next problem we saw was that around the patio area, there were too many levels of steps and stairs, which meant that it would have been difficult to have any sort of traditional furniture arrangement. Randy knew that it only made sense to bring in a wood deck that could be mated to the highest level of the patio, thus creating gaining the most continuous amount of flat space that the client was wanting. But even so, that flat space would be limited to a tight "L-shape" around the pool. And knowing this, the client decided that the larger space would be more valuable to them than the spa, so they opted to have a portion of the deck built over it in order to allow for a more generous amount of patio space. And with the edge of the patio/deck dropping off almost 2 feet to the waterline, it now created the perfect opportunity to have a visually compelling raised wall that could be adorned with different hues of plank-shaped tiles. From inside the pool, the varying shades of brown were a great accent to the wood deck that sat just above. However, the true visual crowning jewel of this project would end up being the raised back wall along the fence, fully encased in a large format, 24x24 slate grey tile, complete with a custom stainless steel, square-tube scupper bank, installed at just the right height to create the perfect amount of water noise. But Randy wasn't done just yet. With two entirely new entertaining areas opened up at opposite ends of the pool, the only thing left to do now was to connect them. Knowing that he nor the client wanted to eliminate any more water space, he decided to bring a new traffic pattern right into the pool by way of two "floating", Lueder limestone stepper pads. It would be a visually perfect union of both pool and walking spaces. The existing steps and walkways were then cut away and replaced with matching Lueder limestone caps and steppers. All remaining gaps were then filled with Mexican beach pebble, which helped to promote a very "zen-like" feel in this outdoor space. The interior of the pool was coated with Wet Edge Primerastone "Blue Pacific Coast" plaster, and lit up with Pentair GloBrite LED pool lights. In the end, the client ended up gaining the additional entertaining and seating space that they needed, and the updated, modern feel that they loved.

UltraMedia featured in Electronic House magazine: "Reaching this point of acoustical nirvana required plenty of calculations, CAD drawings and calibration, says Mike Brock of custom electronics design and installation firm UltraMedia, Richardson, Texas. His company worked directly with the manufacturer—Auralex—to make sure every inch of wall surface, both inside and out, was covered with the perfect type and amount of acoustical material. “We sent the room dimensions and the planned locations of the video projector, speakers and other equipment to the engineers at Auralex,” Brock explains. Using this information, the company was able to specify products and determine their proper placement. “This was the first time where I actually had the manufacturer come down and take an active role in the project and it really worked to everyone’s advantage,” Brock continues. Home-Theater-Wolf-Projector.jpg Auralex’s help with the design of the acoustical treatments afforded Brock the time to implement other sound-enhancing solutions. For example, he filled the hollow metal legs of the bar with sand to prevent them from resonating during loud passages in movie soundtracks. A thick, heavily padded carpet was added, and the general contractor constructed the shell of the room with sound-reducing drywall and installed a solid core door to prevent audio from seeping out into other areas of the house. Lastly, the sound system was calibrated. Unlike many acoustically treated theaters, where the speakers are installed within the walls and covered with special fabric, in this room UltraMedia kept the nine Vienna Acoustic speakers completely exposed. The front three Vienna Acoustics Klimt Music speakers (as well as two REL sub bass units) were positioned on the floor, and the back six speakers were mounted to the surface of the walls. “The cherry in this theater are the Klimts,” says Brock. “We really dialed them in for the best possible sound.” By “dialing in,” Brock means using his and his team’s critical listening skills to position the speakers properly, then using the Integra receiver’s built-in Audyssey technology (a combination of sophisticated software and microphones) to calibrate the speakers to compensate for any acoustical anomalies. The end result: audio perfection." Photo credit: UltraMedia, Inc.

Context Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient. They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible. Response The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy. Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation. The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view. A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures. Photo credit Chris Smith

The client purchased this property with grand plans of renovating the entire place; from top to bottom, and from inside to outside. And while the inside canvas was very generous and even somewhat forgiving, the outside space would be anything but. We wanted to squeeze in as much seating space as possible in their limited courtyard area, without encroaching on the already compact-sized pool. The first and most obvious solution was to get rid of the trees and shrubs that separated this house from its zero-lot-line neighbor. With the addition of Lueder limestone slabs, this alone would free up nearly 120 additional square feet, which happened to be the perfect amount of space for a mobile gas fire pit and sectional sofa. And all of this would make for the perfect place to enjoy the afternoon sunset with the implementation of a custom-built metal pergola standing above it all. The next problem we saw was that around the patio area, there were too many levels of steps and stairs, which meant that it would have been difficult to have any sort of traditional furniture arrangement. Randy knew that it only made sense to bring in a wood deck that could be mated to the highest level of the patio, thus creating gaining the most continuous amount of flat space that the client was wanting. But even so, that flat space would be limited to a tight "L-shape" around the pool. And knowing this, the client decided that the larger space would be more valuable to them than the spa, so they opted to have a portion of the deck built over it in order to allow for a more generous amount of patio space. And with the edge of the patio/deck dropping off almost 2 feet to the waterline, it now created the perfect opportunity to have a visually compelling raised wall that could be adorned with different hues of plank-shaped tiles. From inside the pool, the varying shades of brown were a great accent to the wood deck that sat just above. However, the true visual crowning jewel of this project would end up being the raised back wall along the fence, fully encased in a large format, 24x24 slate grey tile, complete with a custom stainless steel, square-tube scupper bank, installed at just the right height to create the perfect amount of water noise. But Randy wasn't done just yet. With two entirely new entertaining areas opened up at opposite ends of the pool, the only thing left to do now was to connect them. Knowing that he nor the client wanted to eliminate any more water space, he decided to bring a new traffic pattern right into the pool by way of two "floating", Lueder limestone stepper pads. It would be a visually perfect union of both pool and walking spaces. The existing steps and walkways were then cut away and replaced with matching Lueder limestone caps and steppers. All remaining gaps were then filled with Mexican beach pebble, which helped to promote a very "zen-like" feel in this outdoor space. The interior of the pool was coated with Wet Edge Primerastone "Blue Pacific Coast" plaster, and lit up with Pentair GloBrite LED pool lights. In the end, the client ended up gaining the additional entertaining and seating space that they needed, and the updated, modern feel that they loved.

Context Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient. They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible. Response The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy. Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation. The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view. A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures. Photo credit Chris Smith