The Lighting was selected by the client and refinished to coordinate with the new color scheme. The foot prints from the previous to new are very similar, just a few minor adjustments to make cabinets more functional for cooking, and improve storage. The whole desk area was custom cabinets designed specifically to address the clients usage and organizational needs. cubbies, file drawers, wine storage, shallow pencil wide drawer, garage to hide landing space for briefcase, phones, etc.

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 gorgeous European Poggenpohl Kitchen is the culinary center of this new modern home for a young urban family. The homeowners had an extensive list of objectives for their new kitchen. It needed to accommodate formal and non-formal entertaining of guests and family, intentional storage for a variety of items with specific requirements, and use durable and easy to maintain products while achieving a sleek contemporary look that would be a stage and backdrop for their glorious artwork collection. Solution: A large central island acts as a gathering place within the great room space. The tall cabinetry items such as the ovens and refrigeration are grouped on the wall to keep the rest of the kitchen very light and open. Luxury Poggenpohl cabinetry and Caesarstone countertops were selected for their supreme durability and easy maintenance. Warm European oak flooring is contrasted by the gray textured Poggenpohl cabinetry flattered by full width linear Poggenphol hardware. The tall aluminum toe kick on the island is lit from underneath to give it a light and airy luxurious feeling. To further accent the illuminated toe, the surface to the left of the range top is fully suspended 18” above the finished floor. A large amount of steel and engineering work was needed to achieve the floating of the large Poggenpohl cabinet at the end of the peninsula. The conversation is always, “how did they do that?” Photo Credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

Like many projects, this began with a discussion about reconfiguring the island and refinishing the cabinets. Then the clients asked if I could change their sink (undermounted below granite), add a second dishwasher, and replace her double oven. When they realized the extent of those requests, they decided they might as well replace the cabinets and get the quality, storage, and finishes they wanted. They desired traditional styling with a French motif, and luxurious, yet durable finishes that would complement her eggplant/gold/green fabrics. To avoid more expense, we kept the existing windows and retained the existing placement of major appliances (except the cooktop which we moved slightly for better function). I relocated the microwave to the island so that we could install a built-in, larger refrigerator. I reconfigured the layout to better accommodate the needs of this large family – they have six children and three dogs. Everyone has breakfast, takes lunches, has dinner at home daily, and even the dog food is cooked from scratch. There are great organizational accessories in the cabinets. The full-extension quiet-close dovetail drawers minimize noise and feel like fine furniture. The cabinet and countertop finishes are extremely durable. Even the Iroko wood eating counter is easily maintained using an oil-wax that repels stains. The island shape provides seating for three as well as room for the cooktop, warming drawer, microwave drawer, and generous storage. The sprawling countertop works well for their volume of food preparation. The desk area now functions with proper phone and electrical outlets, file drawers, and enough counter. The choice of flooring was critical – the kitchen is part of a great room that flows into a large entry hall. The existing travertine, tile, and carpet did not wear well. I selected durable porcelain tiles that resemble limestone and wood and created a European-inspired woven design in the entry. A simpler version of the same materials in the kitchen and an inset real wood into the seating area create flow between the rooms. To create more visual interest, I removed non-critical soffits. The remaining soffits were clad with wood so it appears that all is part of the cabinet design. The mixture of glazed cherry and black rubbed-through-paint on cherry finishes are enhanced by the dramatic black and gold veins in the creamy granite counter. We retained the straw and plaster walls that create an old-world feeling. The custom mahogany and iron pantry door balanced the design and completed this truly unique space. Pewter cabinet hardware and patterned glass accentuate the motif. Many of the cabinet accountrements are made from a compo material and recreate historical French mouldings. The remaining adornments are hand-carved wood. On top of beauty and function, the cabinet boxes are made from environmentally-friendly, no formaldehyde-added agriboard. So we have traditional design, ornate mouldings, multi-step finishes, and are still nice to the earth and my clients! My scope of work encompassed the complete design process: from design concepts, through working drawings, materials specifications, purchasing, and project administration. Ed Gohlich - photographer

Example of a home office design in Seattle

Our clients occupied the first two floors of this Manhattan townhouse, converted to condos with coveted access to the outdoors via a patio. The overall space had been well-maintained, but was dated and didn't necessarily reflect the aesthetic of our clients. Our goal was to brighten the home with character alongside modern elements. In addition to a full kitchen renovation, this Manhattan townhouse renovation included installing new flooring; retiling and installing new fixtures in the bathroom and powder room; painting the walls; updating the staircase; renovating all the doors, including closets and to the back patio; and installing new lighting fixtures. EYE-CATCHING KITCHEN The kitchen in this Manhattan townhouse renovation is a galley-style space attached to the dining room. We wanted to connect the two in a more cohesive manner, so we built custom banquette seating benches in the dining room, with the table in the center acting as both a connector and divider. Light wainscoting on the base of the walls and wallpaper above contrast against the bright orange benches and ultra-modern light fixture. Gray Shaker-style cabinets and a true herringbone backsplash are paired with a farmhouse sink set in white quartz countertops for a contemporary take on farmhouse style. TOWNHOUSE CHARACTER For the aesthetic in this Manhattan townhouse, we combined elements of a variety of design styles: farmhouse in the kitchen, transitional in the bathroom, touches of modern throughout. But the one factor shared by all is the charm of character. Retaining and refining that classic character was important to our clients. ‍ Our extensive experience in renovating townhouses and brownstones in New York, including our gut renovation of this landmarked townhome in Hudson Square and this brownstone in Bed-Stuy, we were able to provide our clients with the confidence and clarity needed when entering these types of highly specific renovation projects. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - New select white oak flooring throughout - White gloss penny tiles and black grout in the powder room - Wraparound built-in banquette seating in the dining room - Newly exposed brick wall in hallway leading out to patio, painted white for fresh contrast Thinking about renovating your townhouse? We are a design-and-build firm with a full-scale approach that handles every single aspect of your townhouse renovation, from filing permits to sourcing materials and everything in between. Contact us today to find out how you can benefit from our expertise in remodeling New York City townhomes and brownstones.

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.” Bonus Storage surrounds entire island!

Our clients occupied the first two floors of this Manhattan townhouse, converted to condos with coveted access to the outdoors via a patio. The overall space had been well-maintained, but was dated and didn't necessarily reflect the aesthetic of our clients. Our goal was to brighten the home with character alongside modern elements. In addition to a full kitchen renovation, this Manhattan townhouse renovation included installing new flooring; retiling and installing new fixtures in the bathroom and powder room; painting the walls; updating the staircase; renovating all the doors, including closets and to the back patio; and installing new lighting fixtures. EYE-CATCHING KITCHEN The kitchen in this Manhattan townhouse renovation is a galley-style space attached to the dining room. We wanted to connect the two in a more cohesive manner, so we built custom banquette seating benches in the dining room, with the table in the center acting as both a connector and divider. Light wainscoting on the base of the walls and wallpaper above contrast against the bright orange benches and ultra-modern light fixture. Gray Shaker-style cabinets and a true herringbone backsplash are paired with a farmhouse sink set in white quartz countertops for a contemporary take on farmhouse style. TOWNHOUSE CHARACTER For the aesthetic in this Manhattan townhouse, we combined elements of a variety of design styles: farmhouse in the kitchen, transitional in the bathroom, touches of modern throughout. But the one factor shared by all is the charm of character. Retaining and refining that classic character was important to our clients. ‍ Our extensive experience in renovating townhouses and brownstones in New York, including our gut renovation of this landmarked townhome in Hudson Square and this brownstone in Bed-Stuy, we were able to provide our clients with the confidence and clarity needed when entering these types of highly specific renovation projects. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - New select white oak flooring throughout - White gloss penny tiles and black grout in the powder room - Wraparound built-in banquette seating in the dining room - Newly exposed brick wall in hallway leading out to patio, painted white for fresh contrast Thinking about renovating your townhouse? We are a design-and-build firm with a full-scale approach that handles every single aspect of your townhouse renovation, from filing permits to sourcing materials and everything in between. Contact us today to find out how you can benefit from our expertise in remodeling New York City townhomes and brownstones.

These custom built-ins were designed specifically to accommodate our client's needs. The drawers below provide file storage in this room that doubles as a TV room and an office.

Stain grade hard maple build has flat panel shaker style doors with file drawers and solid hard maple top. We build custom to the specific needs of our clients.

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 Lighting was selected by the client and refinished to coordinate with the new color scheme. The foot prints from the previous to new are very similar, just a few minor adjustments to make cabinets more functional for cooking, and improve storage. The whole desk area was custom cabinets designed specifically to address the clients usage and organizational needs. cubbies, file drawers, wine storage, shallow pencil wide drawer, garage to hide landing space for briefcase, phones, etc.

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.”

We designed this refined executive home office and private library tailored specifically for our client's needs. Featuring floor-to-ceiling cabinetry made of rift cut white oak with a slim shaker profile. Drawers were outfitted for a pull out printer and files and adjustable book shelves wrap around the room.

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.”

Our clients occupied the first two floors of this Manhattan townhouse, converted to condos with coveted access to the outdoors via a patio. The overall space had been well-maintained, but was dated and didn't necessarily reflect the aesthetic of our clients. Our goal was to brighten the home with character alongside modern elements. In addition to a full kitchen renovation, this Manhattan townhouse renovation included installing new flooring; retiling and installing new fixtures in the bathroom and powder room; painting the walls; updating the staircase; renovating all the doors, including closets and to the back patio; and installing new lighting fixtures. EYE-CATCHING KITCHEN The kitchen in this Manhattan townhouse renovation is a galley-style space attached to the dining room. We wanted to connect the two in a more cohesive manner, so we built custom banquette seating benches in the dining room, with the table in the center acting as both a connector and divider. Light wainscoting on the base of the walls and wallpaper above contrast against the bright orange benches and ultra-modern light fixture. Gray Shaker-style cabinets and a true herringbone backsplash are paired with a farmhouse sink set in white quartz countertops for a contemporary take on farmhouse style. TOWNHOUSE CHARACTER For the aesthetic in this Manhattan townhouse, we combined elements of a variety of design styles: farmhouse in the kitchen, transitional in the bathroom, touches of modern throughout. But the one factor shared by all is the charm of character. Retaining and refining that classic character was important to our clients. ‍ Our extensive experience in renovating townhouses and brownstones in New York, including our gut renovation of this landmarked townhome in Hudson Square and this brownstone in Bed-Stuy, we were able to provide our clients with the confidence and clarity needed when entering these types of highly specific renovation projects. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - New select white oak flooring throughout - White gloss penny tiles and black grout in the powder room - Wraparound built-in banquette seating in the dining room - Newly exposed brick wall in hallway leading out to patio, painted white for fresh contrast Thinking about renovating your townhouse? We are a design-and-build firm with a full-scale approach that handles every single aspect of your townhouse renovation, from filing permits to sourcing materials and everything in between. Contact us today to find out how you can benefit from our expertise in remodeling New York City townhomes and brownstones.

Our clients occupied the first two floors of this Manhattan townhouse, converted to condos with coveted access to the outdoors via a patio. The overall space had been well-maintained, but was dated and didn't necessarily reflect the aesthetic of our clients. Our goal was to brighten the home with character alongside modern elements. In addition to a full kitchen renovation, this Manhattan townhouse renovation included installing new flooring; retiling and installing new fixtures in the bathroom and powder room; painting the walls; updating the staircase; renovating all the doors, including closets and to the back patio; and installing new lighting fixtures. EYE-CATCHING KITCHEN The kitchen in this Manhattan townhouse renovation is a galley-style space attached to the dining room. We wanted to connect the two in a more cohesive manner, so we built custom banquette seating benches in the dining room, with the table in the center acting as both a connector and divider. Light wainscoting on the base of the walls and wallpaper above contrast against the bright orange benches and ultra-modern light fixture. Gray Shaker-style cabinets and a true herringbone backsplash are paired with a farmhouse sink set in white quartz countertops for a contemporary take on farmhouse style. TOWNHOUSE CHARACTER For the aesthetic in this Manhattan townhouse, we combined elements of a variety of design styles: farmhouse in the kitchen, transitional in the bathroom, touches of modern throughout. But the one factor shared by all is the charm of character. Retaining and refining that classic character was important to our clients. ‍ Our extensive experience in renovating townhouses and brownstones in New York, including our gut renovation of this landmarked townhome in Hudson Square and this brownstone in Bed-Stuy, we were able to provide our clients with the confidence and clarity needed when entering these types of highly specific renovation projects. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - New select white oak flooring throughout - White gloss penny tiles and black grout in the powder room - Wraparound built-in banquette seating in the dining room - Newly exposed brick wall in hallway leading out to patio, painted white for fresh contrast Thinking about renovating your townhouse? We are a design-and-build firm with a full-scale approach that handles every single aspect of your townhouse renovation, from filing permits to sourcing materials and everything in between. Contact us today to find out how you can benefit from our expertise in remodeling New York City townhomes and brownstones.

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 rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home. The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living. The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home. The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play. The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. Energy Efficient features include: • The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade • 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques • Foil covered roof sheathing • Extensive use of blown in cellulous • All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass • Tank-less water heaters • Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV. Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency. These items include: • 2x6 walls with staggered studs • Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting • Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows • ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls. The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.