We were contacted by this previous sunroom customer to build him a new "Shop & Greenhouse" although his specifications were not just your typical construction as he is a very "Green" minded person. We needed to use our "Green Built Room Addition" SIP's product for the walls and roof of the shop for energy efficiency as well as the walls of the greenhouse and install insulated polycarbonate roofing panel in the greenhouse for maximum solar and sun control for all of his special plants. The shop is heated by a small gas heater while the green house is almost a completely self contained heat system within itself from the roof panels, very little added heat is needed during the winter months for his seedlings. With an on-demand hot water source, sink, draind as well as portable plant pots he is in heaven when working in his greenhouse

The Pasadena Showcase House 2014 Carriage House Kitchen, by Tocco Finale, featuring Walker Zanger's new hand-painted tile collection Duquesa as the counter backsplash. Duquesa will be arriving in mid May. For more information on our tile, visit http://walkerzanger.com/

Open to the family room beyond, this kitchen uses a warm toned granite to bring in the connamon colors used throughout the home. A golden onyx mosaic tile adds a bit of glam to the backsplash. Photo by Chris Snitko

Wood flooring adds style and warmth to a home. It can greatly enhance the overall beauty of a home and make it look visually pleasing. Although the popularity of wooden flooring has increased significantly in recent years, many people are not aware of the fact that solid hardwood flooring is not the only option available to them. They can also install engineered wood floors and laminate floors in homes and offices. Although, laminate and engineered wood floors look like solid hardwood floors, but they are very different. Engineered wood flooring is made from natural materials. In this type of flooring, several layers of ply are bonded together. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is made from synthetic materials.   Let’s take a look at how engineered wood floors and laminate floors stack up against each other-  

1. Composition

Engineered wood flooring is composed of layers of plywood that are bonded together. The topmost layer is of solid wood. Laminate flooring is made up of various layers that are fused together using a lamination process. It has a surface layer made of resin-infused paper.  

2. Installation

Both these types of flooring can be easily installed. Laminate boards lock into each other and there is no need for glue. Engineered wood, on the other hand, is required to be glued to the floor. The entire installation process of both these types of flooring can be easily completed in short time.  

3. Maintenance

The maintenance of both engineered and laminate flooring is easy. Regular vacuuming can be used to keep them clean. A damp cloth can also be used to clean engineered wooden flooring. In the case of laminate flooring, one can be more generous with the use of water. However, the excess use of water must be avoided.  

4. Life Expectancy and Cost

The life expectancy of engineered wooden floors is higher. While most laminate floors last for around 20 years, engineered floors can last for 6-7 decades. However, the cost of laminate flooring is lower than that of engineered floors. Therefore, it is a good option for anyone who wants to revamp the flooring of his home without spending too much.  

5. Options

As far as the choices are concerned, there is no shortage of options. Both engineered floors and laminate floors are available in numerous options. Depending on your specific needs and tastes, you can easily select the right type of flooring that suits your home decor and looks. Over the past few years, the demand for decorative laminates and engineered wooden flooring has increased considerably. Both have their own unique advantages. However, it is important to ensure that you install the best quality wooden flooring manufactured by a renowned company. There are many reliable manufacturers that offer top-quality wooden flooring at affordable prices. Also, make sure that the flooring is properly installed. This will make it easier for you to avoid a number of hassles in future. With wood floor refinishing NJ Science Articles, you can easily transform the overall look and appearance of your home without spending too much money. For More Information Click Here: Flooring Contractors NJ

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Carolina Coastal in Wilmington, North Carolina, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elements. Specifically engineered for premium waterfront living, this custom house plan features a structural raised piling foundation designed to elevate the home, address regional rising tide concerns, and maximize panoramic vistas. Embodying elite coastal architecture, the layout incorporates a unique upside-down floor plan where the primary common living spaces are strategically elevated to the top level of the home. This upper level features an open great room, a private owner's retreat, and a chef-ready kitchen equipped with a huge central island. The main living zones open up to sweeping double porches on both the front and rear of the home, offering effortless indoor-outdoor flow and unmatched access to beautiful coastal views. The entry level of the residence offers exceptional functional space, accommodating three additional bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a large, versatile flex room conveniently located right off the foyer. Expanding the estate's footprint for private guest hosting or flexible family arrangements, the property features an attached, multi-generational casita. Connected directly to the main home by a scenic covered walkway, this independent guest cottage is fully appointed with its own dedicated kitchen, bedroom, and full bathroom, providing ultimate comfort, independence, and seclusion for long-term visitors.

This Divisadero Street remodel project brought new life to a classic San Francisco home, revealing an elegant Victorian façade and a polished, contemporary interior. Working to blend the two styles, a simple yet elegant design was employed with specific accents to add life and a modern sensibility to the home. Making the most of the home’s backyard was of great concern for the owner. The decking was designed to maximize the space for entertaining, and complement beauty of the landscaping. Traditional ornamental millwork was used throughout to match the existing wainscoting and crown molding. Rendered as a monochromatic white without any color differentiation from the interior walls, the effect is contemporary, as if it were a blank canvas with detailed articulations on its surface. Furthermore, the contrast of its dark wood floors to the home's largely white color scheme gives it a modern aesthetic.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Carolina Coastal in Wilmington, North Carolina, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elements. Specifically engineered for premium waterfront living, this custom house plan features a structural raised piling foundation designed to elevate the home, address regional rising tide concerns, and maximize panoramic vistas. Embodying elite coastal architecture, the layout incorporates a unique upside-down floor plan where the primary common living spaces are strategically elevated to the top level of the home. This upper level features an open great room, a private owner's retreat, and a chef-ready kitchen equipped with a huge central island. The main living zones open up to sweeping double porches on both the front and rear of the home, offering effortless indoor-outdoor flow and unmatched access to beautiful coastal views. The entry level of the residence offers exceptional functional space, accommodating three additional bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a large, versatile flex room conveniently located right off the foyer. Expanding the estate's footprint for private guest hosting or flexible family arrangements, the property features an attached, multi-generational casita. Connected directly to the main home by a scenic covered walkway, this independent guest cottage is fully appointed with its own dedicated kitchen, bedroom, and full bathroom, providing ultimate comfort, independence, and seclusion for long-term visitors.

Getting your homeowner's association board to approve your new custom garage doors can seem daunting. Dynamic Garage Door as a custom design and manufacturing firm has come across this situation quite frequently with a phenomenal success approval rate! In order to get approval for your custom garage door approval there are a few basic points you must understand. First off, your HOA is committed to preserving the neighborhood's curb appeal integrity by focusing on the impact your new custom garage doors might have on your house and the houses of your neighbors. It is important to understand that your curb appeal decisions will impact your home and neighborhood alike. Too many companies offer semi-custom wood doors without the true understanding of the client's need and the essence of their home's architectural style. The garage door design you choose needs to comply with neighborhood regulations while complement your home's architecture. At Dynamic Garage Door, our designers are well-rounded in the garage door industry and so we can suggest or develop designs that will reinforce the natural appearance of your home's style. If you can prove to your HOA that you've done your homework and that the garage door design you chose will complement not only your home but the neighborhood you'll be surprised when your proposal is marked with the approval stamp! This garage door is actually a single double-car door not two as it appears. The reason is that this garage used to have two separate doors with a post in the middle. The post in the middle made it difficult to use the garage on a daily basis so the post was removed to facilitate the use of the garage. The HOA wasn't too happy about the removal of the post as it was an essential part of the arches located right above the garage doors. You can clearly see how that would have been disruptive if the homeowner went with a regular wood door and not one custom designed and manufactured by Dynamic Garage Door. This garage door was specifically designed to address the HOA's concern about the center post removal and the effect it would have on the curb appeal of the home with the incomplete double arch look. So we addressed this by crafting the door with a false center post in the middle that was textured and painted the same color of the house to give off that illusion that the post is still there. Overall, it gives the home a complete finished appearance with two independent-looking doors and original post. The homeowner got the entire width of the opening to use at the push of a button so having a larger car won't be a problem anymore. The neighbors are all happy and no one seems to notice the center post is actually fake! Got an interesting garage door project you want our designers to review and price out for you? Give us a call at (855) 343-DOOR

We recently had the pleasure of completing a remarkable backyard makeover that presented us with some exciting challenges and opportunities for creativity. Our clients wanted to revamp their backyard, focusing on enhancing functionality and creating a low-maintenance, beautiful outdoor space. One of the main objectives was to expand the usable patio area without the need to tear out and pour new concrete. To achieve this, we carefully considered the existing patio curves, respecting their unique shape and making the entire area look intentionally designed. Additionally, drainage was a crucial concern. We took the initiative to install proper drainage solutions to prevent water pooling and ensure the longevity of the space. Our client, an MMA enthusiast, had a specific request to elevate his training experience. To accommodate this, we designed a raised platform with putting-green turf, providing the ideal spot for his Body Opponent bag while maintaining a clean and mud-free training area. For the plant-loving homeowner, we incorporated beautiful Austin limestone chopped block raised beds with a central irrigation system. This resulted in aesthetically pleasing and low-maintenance raised planters, adding vibrant greenery and a touch of nature to the backyard. We utilized the pallet of paver bricks they already had on hand to create practical hardscape walking pads, connecting different areas of the backyard while seamlessly blending with the design. Despite the challenges, we successfully turned their backyard into a fully functional and inviting outdoor retreat. The space now embraces their passions, meets their desires, and offers a tranquil escape for relaxation and enjoyment.

THE SETUP “You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'” The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place. THE REMODEL The objectives were: Enlarge and open the space Find a classic look that incorporates blues Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances Hide an office space within the space Ample storage for dishes Design challenges: Uneven window alignment on the back wall Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header Large island that seats six easily Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way. “In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.”

THE SETUP “You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'” The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place. THE REMODEL The objectives were: Enlarge and open the space Find a classic look that incorporates blues Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances Hide an office space within the space Ample storage for dishes Design challenges: Uneven window alignment on the back wall Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header Large island that seats six easily Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way. “In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.”

woven wood on door and kitchen window For this project we were hired to help with window treatments for multiple rooms with different options. We helped design each room specifically for the functional and aesthetic needs. We did Woven wood shades in the family and kitchen area without a lining since privacy was not a concern. For the master bedroom, we did shutters with a split tilt feature for added privacy and light control. For the bathroom we did a fun patterned roman shade option with the larger window with the top down feature to give added light and maintaining privacy. We also did custom fabric valances in the guest room.

The homeowner is a retired professional and a passionate home chef who desired to have the finest in luxury appliances. They interviewed several large design build firms that just didnt listen to them. After approaching our company they discovered we were a perfect fit as we listened to their specific remodeling needs and were not concerned about making the sale. This couple entertains large crowds of people and their kitchen was tiny and outdated for their needs. We opened up the wall between the kitchen and dining room, removed an awkward drop ceiling, added square footage to the kitchen and dining room spaces. Finally adding exterior sliding door with a La Cantina Bi-Fold door. We moved and installed a new sink window at the wall between the kitchen and dining room. The new configuration allowed for more working area as well as much needed additional kitchen storage. An integrated flush Subzero Refrigerator and Freezer are the perfect for this home owners entertaining needs. The island features a Miele Range with and island sink, the second sink is a necessity for this Chef. The details are not overlooked in the cabinetry with the beveled door by Ovation Cabinetry available exclusively at Signature Designs Kitchen Bath in San Diego.

THE SETUP “You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'” The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place. THE REMODEL The objectives were: Enlarge and open the space Find a classic look that incorporates blues Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances Hide an office space within the space Ample storage for dishes Design challenges: Uneven window alignment on the back wall Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header Large island that seats six easily Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way. “In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.” This is a custom specialty bread drawer!

Saturday, May 30, 1:30 to 3:00pm | Santa Monica Hightree by Jay Griffith of Jay Griffith Design This half-acre site is nestled into the Rustic Canyon neighborhood, and is the second collaboration between the landscape designer and client. Architect Steven Ehrlich designed the striking Modernist home fifteen years ago. It is set on the canyon floor amidst native California sycamores, the only holdover from the previous design. The garden is naturalistic in spirit, but carefully calibrated to include species that thrive in the canyon’s specific microclimate, primarily determined by soil conditions and limited light quality. A dramatic rectilinear elevated pool, based on the house’s strong geometry, offsets the sycamore’s angularity and curvilinear nature. The pool’s design is practical, it’s five-foot tall walls address safety concerns associated with having small children; but It’s also very sculptural, a seamless, buff-colored plaster-coated concrete monolith. The watery surface suggests one of the house’s giant windows. Vast sweeps of understory plantings offer subtle contrasts both textural and though tonal variations of green. Photos by Jorge Rafael

This design / build project in Los Angeles, CA. focused on a couple’s master bathroom. There were multiple reasons that the homeowners decided to start this project. The existing skylight had begun leaking and there were function and style concerns to be addressed. Previously this dated-spacious master bathroom had a large Jacuzzi tub, sauna, bidet (in a water closet) and a shower. Although the space was large and offered many amenities they were not what the homeowners valued and the space was very compartmentalized. The project also included closing off a door which previously allowed guests access to the master bathroom. The homeowners wanted to create a space that was not accessible to guests. Painted tiles featuring lilies and gold finishes were not the style the homeowners were looking for. Desiring something more elegant, a place where they could pamper themselves, we were tasked with recreating the space. Chief among the homeowners requests were a wet room with free standing tub, floor-mounted waterfall tub filler, and stacked stone. Specifically they wanted the stacked stone to create a central visual feature between the shower and tub. The stacked stone is Limestone in Honed Birch. The open shower contrasts the neighboring stacked stone with sleek smooth large format tiles. A double walnut vanity featuring crystal knobs and waterfall faucets set below a clearstory window allowed for adding a new makeup vanity with chandelier which the homeowners love. The walnut vanity was selected to contrast the light, white tile. The bathroom features Brizo and DXV.

THE SETUP “You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'” The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place. THE REMODEL The objectives were: Enlarge and open the space Find a classic look that incorporates blues Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances Hide an office space within the space Ample storage for dishes Design challenges: Uneven window alignment on the back wall Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header Large island that seats six easily Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way. “In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.”

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Carolina Coastal in Wilmington, North Carolina, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elements. Specifically engineered for premium waterfront living, this custom house plan features a structural raised piling foundation designed to elevate the home, address regional rising tide concerns, and maximize panoramic vistas. Embodying elite coastal architecture, the layout incorporates a unique upside-down floor plan where the primary common living spaces are strategically elevated to the top level of the home. This upper level features an open great room, a private owner's retreat, and a chef-ready kitchen equipped with a huge central island. The main living zones open up to sweeping double porches on both the front and rear of the home, offering effortless indoor-outdoor flow and unmatched access to beautiful coastal views. The entry level of the residence offers exceptional functional space, accommodating three additional bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a large, versatile flex room conveniently located right off the foyer. Expanding the estate's footprint for private guest hosting or flexible family arrangements, the property features an attached, multi-generational casita. Connected directly to the main home by a scenic covered walkway, this independent guest cottage is fully appointed with its own dedicated kitchen, bedroom, and full bathroom, providing ultimate comfort, independence, and seclusion for long-term visitors.

For years we have honed our skills and become one of the most widely regarded suppliers of natural stone kitchen countertops in Raleigh and the surrounding area. We have the massive benefit of being able to store large quantities of our material in our warehouse so we can make your custom countertops on premise and on demand. This allows us to be able to make counters to your specifications, not have to rely on a third party product that might fall short and not meet our standards. Call the team at Geo’s Marble & Granite today to ask about our free estimate for competitive prices. We will also be glad to answer any and all questions you have and address any concerns. We expertly measure your space so we can accurately advise you on the best course of action. Ordering marble, granite and quartz is similar to ordering fabric in that the raw materials come in prefabricated slabs that must be cut down to size. Luckily that’s where we shine, making each countertop to order. We guarantee nothing but the best high-quality materials with competitively low prices because we are able to house our materials rather than ship them in every time we need to fulfill an order.