Outdoor Living Fabulously starts with a fabulous design and ends with meticulous workmanship. There is a difference between Outdoor Living and Living Outdoors Fabulously and that is by DESIGN. Outdoor Living fabulously designer and founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE Michael Gotowala shows us the secret to success for living beyond the walls of your home outdoors. The idea at hand is to understand the intent of the space and transcribe some of the comfort levels of each family members lifestyle indoors and extend upon it outdoors. The result becomes endless hours of time spent outdoors with friends and family. This outdoor living design build project is truly fabulous. A beautiful gunite pool with Hamptons spa spilling over into the pool. Meandering walls and columns to uphold the sloping hillside. An open air pavilion complete with a swim up bar, bronze sink, tv, EVO grill and fireplace to entertain fabulously. This poolside open air pavilion becomes the focal of living space for those wishing to spend hours outdoors beyond the walls of their home. The curved Maui like pool and stone patio lead back towards the house where a separate Outdoor Kitchen area connects the deck of the main house to the back yard pool area. The outdoor covered kitchen area allows for food, conversation, and fun 10 1/2 months out of the year. Another outdoor living fabulous space by Outdoor Kitchen Fabulous designer Michael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by Preferred Properties. Connecticut's Best in Outdoor Kitchens. The Outdoor Kitchen Design Store located in Connecticut and Hill Street Southampton by Appt. Not feeling fabulous about your outdoor living space? Reconsider your design. Call us at 1-855- GET OUTDOORS THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE Connecticut and Southampton. For more Fabulous Outdoor living design ideas and the best in Outdoor Kitchens go to www.OutdoorKitchenDesigner.com Michael Gotowala

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Living beyond the walls of your home outdoors starts with a fabulous design. There is a difference between Outdoor Living and Living Outdoors Fabulously and that is by DESIGN. Outdoor Living fabulously designer and founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE Michael Gotowala shows us the secret to success for living beyond the walls of your home outdoors. The idea at hand is to understand the intent of the space and transcribe some of the comfort levels of each family members lifestyle indoors and extend upon it outdoors. The result becomes endless hours of time spent outdoors with friends and family. This outdoor living design build project is truly fabulous. A beautiful gunite pool with Hamptons spa spilling over into the pool. Meandering walls and columns to uphold the sloping hillside. An open air pavilion complete with a swim up bar, bronze sink, tv, EVO grill and fireplace to entertain fabulously. This poolside open air pavilion becomes the focal of living space for those wishing to spend hours outdoors beyond the walls of their home. The curved Maui like pool and stone patio lead back towards the house where a separate Outdoor Kitchen area connects the deck of the main house to the back yard pool area. The outdoor covered kitchen area allows for food, conversation, and fun 10 1/2 months out of the year. Another outdoor living fabulous space by Outdoor Kitchen Fabulous designer Michael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by Preferred Properties. Connecticut's Best in Outdoor Kitchens. The Outdoor Kitchen Design Store located in Connecticut and Hill Street Southampton by Appt. Not feeling fabulous about your outdoor living space? Reconsider your design. Call us at 1-855- GET OUTDOORS THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE Connecticut and Southampton. For more Fabulous Outdoor living design ideas and the best in Outdoor Kitchens go to www.OutdoorKitchenDesigner.com Michael Gotowala

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

4 Steps to Achieving a Rewarding Cost Effective Home Renovation 1 Home Renovation an Introduction A home renovation due to changes in family needs and space requirements can be a challenging, but also a rewarding experience. As a homeowner, gathering and coordinating resources and possibly help from professional consultants are required. Once the construction phase has started, patience, endurance and commitment to follow through are necessary. Despite the challenges, the rewards of a well-planned and successfully completed project are meaningful, adding aesthetic and economic value, also providing the opportunity to personalize a home, encompassing the function, comfort and aesthetics to accommodate individual taste and lifestyle. A renovation of an existing home is a viable alternative to moving or building a new home, assuming that a home is structurally sound, the expenditure to enlarge or improve can be a cost effective alternative. A home possessing charm, style, historical significance, established landscaping or an exceptional location could be a significant motivation to consider purchasing another home with the intent to renovate. The complexity of a project could be relatively simple, changing the use of a room, consolidating two rooms into one, or opening up a room to the outdoors. It could also be a more involved task requiring planning, design and construction documents to build a second floor addition, the addition of a new wing or completely gutting the interior. Some projects could be completed in a weekend’s work or more complex projects, using a “Master Plan”, a plan which provides overall guidance; a renovation can be accomplished all at once or divided into manageable projects over a period of time. With the home evolving gradually allowing the renovation to be planned, timed and tailored to meet individual needs and circumstances. The due diligence phase should precede the decision to renovate whether it’s an existing home or a home that is purchased with the intent to renovate. The due diligence phase will reveal the factors affecting the nature and scope of the project or if a renovation makes sense. Every renovation project is unique relative to personal requirements, architectural style & construction type. This guide will be helpful in developing an understanding of the preliminary groundwork required to realize a successful project. If properly planned, a home renovation project can be a positive and rewarding experience resulting in a comfortable, practical and an attractive living environment. The first step of the planning process is documenting the goals and long-range plans referred to as the “Project Program”. This will dictate the nature, scope and feasibility of the project. Providing a guide to achieving defined goals, the timing or phasing of the project and budget required to achieve the desired end result. 2 Documenting Existing Conditions Once the “Project Program”, has been established, the next step is to determine what there is to work with. This requires documenting the home’s floor plan and site elements which includes drawing an “as built” floor & site plan consisting of the existing exterior walls, interior rooms, doors, windows, etc. and surrounding site elements, landscape and other significant exterior features. Additionally understanding and noting on the “as built” plan, the structural, mechanical and electrical systems as necessary. Gathering the “existing condition” information defines what there is to work with, creating the framework from which to facilitate and organize the decision making process and develop effective “project program” solutions. 3 Evaluating Existing Conditions The goals and long-range plans have been established, and the existing floor plan and site elements have been documented. Before developing design solutions, the next step is to evaluate existing conditions. The evaluation includes: a detailed analysis of the structural, mechanical and electrical systems, determining the condition of the house, noting functional and aesthetic deficiencies. At the same time recognizing the home’s strengths, assets and evaluating its relationship to its site. The remaining parameters will be defined by the local jurisdiction’s zoning regulations, these regulations will define the “envelope”, within which the proposed project will be required to fit: •required front, side & rear yard setbacks •maximum allowable lot coverage & height The previous three steps have provided the necessary foundation to start the design phase. The goals and long range plans have been established, existing conditions have been documented and the evaluation of what there is to work with are now in place. This will provide the framework from which to facilitate and organize design solutions. The consolidation of this information is manifested in the development of the “Master Plan” which will become the road map by which sound decision-making can be made as a home renovation evolves. Keeping the project, on a linear path, avoiding redundancies and back tracking, on time, within budget, concluding with a well crafted finished product. After all the “up front” research and documentation has been completed, the design phase of the project can now precede, with the creation of diagrammatic design drawings. Organizing interior spaces, taking into account the external elements, prevailing breezes, solar orientation, view, existing outdoor features, etc. Through the development of schematic sketches themes will emerge followed by design development drawings. Wise planning and renovation decisions can save money and time at the same time provide a well crafted finished project. The “Master Plan” provides a strategic path in the planning and decision making process leading to a successful and rewarding home renovation, which will add value and considerable enjoyment, for many years, living in a newly renovated home. By virtue of having gone through these steps, frustrations sometimes encountered during a home renovation will be minimized, allowing the renovation to be a gratifying and rewarding experience. Being aware of the process allows one to become an “Educated Client,” which is worth quite a bit more than one might realize. The uneducated client may not realize the benefit of going through the planning, evaluation and documentation groundwork. He will only realize its benefits after having completed a prior renovation project. This rational approach keeps the design process on a direct path to achieving prescribed goals. 4 Exploring Design Solutions & Developing a Master Plan The previous three steps have provided the necessary foundation to start the design phase. The goals and long range plans have been established, existing conditions have been documented and the evaluation of what there is to work with are now in place. This will provide the framework from which to facilitate and organize design solutions. The consolidation of this information is manifested in the development of the “Master Plan” which will become the road map by which sound decision-making can be made as a home renovation evolves. Keeping the project, on a linear path, avoiding redundancies and back tracking, on time, within budget, concluding with a well crafted finished product. By virtue of having gone through these steps, frustrations sometimes encountered during a home renovation will be minimized, allowing the renovation to be a gratifying and rewarding experience. Being aware of the process allows one to become an “Educated Client,” which is worth quite a bit more than one might realize. The uneducated client may not realize the benefit of going through the planning, evaluation and documentation groundwork. He will only realize its benefits after having completed a prior renovation project. This rational approach keeps the design process on a direct path to achieving prescribed goals. After all the “up front” research and documentation has been completed, the design phase of the project can now precede, with the creation of diagrammatic design drawings. Organizing interior spaces, taking into account the external elements, prevailing breezes, solar orientation, view, existing outdoor features, etc. Through the development of schematic sketches themes will emerge followed by design development drawings. Wise planning and renovation decisions can save money and time at the same time provide a well crafted finished project. The “Master Plan” provides a strategic path in the planning and decision making process leading to a successful and rewarding home renovation, which will add value and considerable enjoyment, for many years, living in a newly renovated home.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Astaneh Construction is proud to announce the successful completion of one of our most favourite projects to date - a custom-built home in Toronto's Greater Toronto Area (GTA) using only the highest quality materials and the most professional tradespeople available. The project, which spanned an entire year from start to finish, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. As a leading home renovation and kitchen renovation company in Toronto, Astaneh Construction is dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional results that exceed their expectations. Our custom home build in 2020 is a shining example of this commitment, as we spared no expense to ensure that every detail of the project was executed flawlessly. From the initial planning stages to the final walkthrough, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the project met our strict standards of quality and craftsmanship. We carefully selected the most professional and skilled tradespeople in the GTA to work alongside us, and only used the highest quality materials and finishes available to us. The total cost of the project was $350 per sqft, which equates to a cost of over 1 million and 200 hundred thousand Canadian dollars for the 3500 sqft custom home. We are confident that this investment was worth every penny, as the final result is a breathtaking masterpiece that will stand the test of time. We take great pride in our work at Astaneh Construction, and the completion of this project has only reinforced our commitment to excellence. If you are considering a home renovation or kitchen renovation in Toronto, we invite you to experience the Astaneh Construction difference for yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you turn your dream home into a reality.

Josh Partee Photography With sweeping views of the Willamette river and Mt. Hood, this Atwater Place condo was designed with a balance of minimalism and livability in mind. A complete kitchen remodel brought a dark interior kitchen to the light and a full furnishings package welcomed Los Angeles transplants home to their new modern and bright residence. Our clients, a retired camera operator for both feature films and television and a producer/production manager on numerous television series including Weeds and The Middle, relocated from their traditionally-styled LA bungalow to Portland in the Summer of 2014. The couple sought a design departure from their long-term California residence and a fresh start for their new life in the South Waterfront. With only two pieces of sentimental furniture and a handful of artwork included in the plan, we set out to create a comfortable and clean-lined furnishings package complimenting the broad southeast views. Organically shaped upholstery pieces juxtaposed with angular steel and wood tables create a soft balance in the open floor plan. Several custom pieces, including a dining table designed by our studio and a custom hand-blown glass chandelier crafted by Scott Schiesel with Lightlite compliment timeless pieces from Knoll, Herman Miller, and B&B Italia. The kitchen is designed to reflect light and create brilliance in a space that is otherwise naturally dark. A material balance of stainless steel, back painted glass, quartz composite, lacquer, and mirror all play their part in creating a vibrant cooking environment. We collectively decided to forgo the traditional island pendant for a linear commercial fixture that provides tremendous light to the prep surface and creates an unexpected architectural element. The mirrored prep island creates the illusion of open space while concealing casework and wine storage on the working side of the kitchen. It is worth noting that this project was designed and installed almost entirely while our clients were still living in LA and wrapping up professional obligations and selling their home. This afforded us the tremendous opportunity to send our clients to showrooms not available in Portland to view key pieces before final specification. Textiles and finish samples were approved via mail and communication took place over e-mail, telephone, and an occasional office visit. This unique process lead to a successful result and a beautifully balanced living environment.

Dennis and Joe have a large, light-filled house. New construction meant lofted space and open floor plans with traditional styling. Running a busy dental practice by day and engaged in a rich social life by night, this couple needed a professional to take the lead on making their house a home. That’s my cue! They wanted to take risks, and stay away from “matchy-matchy”. We gussied up a plain ol’ TV room and gave it a healthy dose of luxury. Our plan was initially inspired by an abstract painting hanging over their stone fireplace. We brought in their love of the outdoors to make things cozy and used family furniture whenever possible for nostalgia and comfort. I took their love for one-of-a-kind objects and started making a design plan, aiming to solve their biggest frustration: the family room. They had a tortured relationship with a “forgotten family room,” a great space that was spacious and bright, but not at all cozy or joyful, and certainly not “them.” I wanted to create a cozy space functional for everyday curling up with puppies and watching TV after dinner, yet chic enough for hosting the pre-dinner kitchen overflow and cocktails during parties. I went looking for contrasting textures and materials. I wanted to balance patterns and scale, and use non-traditional colors as neutrals to create an overall sense of “BAM!” Dennis and Joe loved the nod to the classics juxtaposed with new and different globally-inspired pieces. For this project our design aesthetic can be described as Middle Eastern/tribal meets mid-century modern. We played to their sensible side with proportion and balance, and stayed as far away from boring/bleh as we could. You could say this room was pretty successful...It was featured in DC Modern Luxury. (#nobigdeal, right?) From there we moved on to other spaces.. We added colorful pillows and sheer drapery to finish off their formal living room. We kept an inherited bedroom set from Dennis’ Mom and added color, draperies, and pillows to overhaul the guest bedroom. Their project was not a rip-and-replace, we weren’t starting from scratch with a blank piece of paper. Rather, our goal was to take what was already there and make it better, more like them. Using functionality first, we focused on giving the house a soothing, joyful aesthetic. We upped the chic factor by a gajillion and helped them find their ‘happy’ at home. See more Safferstone stuff at www.safferstone.com. Connect with us on Facebook, get inspired on Pinterest, and share modern musings on life & design on Instagram. Or, send us a love note at hello@safferstone.com. Photo: Angie Seckinger

CertainTeed vinyl siding gave this Dartmouth, MA home loads of curb appeal! This homeowner eliminated the costly maintenance of painting every 5-7 years by choosing CertainTeed’s Restoration Classic vinyl siding in the color, Midnight Blue. Manufactured for both beauty and durability, this siding mimics the wood grain and shadow lines of painted, cedar clapboard siding. The realistic texture lines and fade-resistant colors make this siding an easy choice for homeowners who want to worry less and live more! CertainTeed, a leader in the vinyl siding industry, offers a gorgeous collection of colors that will suit your personal style. Whether you prefer deep colors, like Midnight Blue, or soft shades of gray and taupe – CertainTeed vinyl siding gives homeowners a lifetime of curb appeal. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs. Value report, vinyl siding offers a 74.7% return on investment. This means vinyl siding offers one of the highest returns when compared to other home remodeling projects. Thanks to our CertainTeed 5 Star Siding Contractor status, our customers know they are working with a company that is held to the highest industry standards. Since 1978, our family business has provided professional residential and construction services to thousands of Cape Cod, Southeastern Massachusetts, and Rhode Island homeowners. We have over 40 years of success in business and have been an Accredited, A+ Rated Member of the Better Business Bureau for over 25 years. Explore our online portfolio and extensive list of industry credentials and awards to see why many of your town neighbors have chosen Care Free Homes, Inc. as their preferred contractor. We ask for absolutely no money down and have financing options available for qualified homeowners. Get started on your siding, roofing, window, or construction project with a FREE quote! Call (508) 997-1111 or contact us online to schedule your consultation. Make your house a Care Free home!

Outdoor living fabulously here starts with a swim up bar and Hibachi. For more outdoor fabulous ideas go to THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE. There is a difference between Outdoor Living and Living Outdoors Fabulously and that is by DESIGN. Outdoor Living fabulously designer and founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE Michael Gotowala shows us the secret to success for living beyond the walls of your home outdoors. The idea at hand is to understand the intent of the space and transcribe some of the comfort levels of each family members lifestyle indoors and extend upon it outdoors. The result becomes endless hours of time spent outdoors with friends and family. This outdoor living design build project is truly fabulous. A beautiful gunite pool with Hamptons spa spilling over into the pool. Meandering walls and columns to uphold the sloping hillside. An open air pavilion complete with a swim up bar, bronze sink, tv, EVO grill and fireplace to entertain fabulously. This poolside open air pavilion becomes the focal of living space for those wishing to spend hours outdoors beyond the walls of their home. The curved Maui like pool and stone patio lead back towards the house where a separate Outdoor Kitchen area connects the deck of the main house to the back yard pool area. The outdoor covered kitchen area allows for food, conversation, and fun 10 1/2 months out of the year. Another outdoor living fabulous space by Outdoor Kitchen Fabulous designer Michael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by Preferred Properties. Connecticut's Best in Outdoor Kitchens. The Outdoor Kitchen Design Store located in Connecticut and Hill Street Southampton by Appt. Not feeling fabulous about your outdoor living space? Reconsider your design. Call us at 1-855- GET OUTDOORS THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE Connecticut and Southampton. For more Fabulous Outdoor living design ideas and the best in Outdoor Kitchens go to www.OutdoorKitchenDesigner.com Michael Gotowala

Here we have a six year old Indian Sandstone tiled floor located a property on the outskirts of Lancaster. Measuring 100 metres squared, the very large floor had under floor heating in the concrete sub base. The type of stone used inside the property is what we commonly refer to as ‘patio Sandstone’, a material which is usually used outside because of its very rough texture. It’s not particularly comfortable to walk across in bare feet, hence why many people consider it be impractical for internal flooring. Nonetheless, the property owner was keen to make the rough textured floor as feet-friendly as possible for people walking over it. At Tile Doctor we have developed a process known as milling, which utilises diamond encrusted pads combined with a weighted rotary machine to smooth the rough surface, leaving it looking and feeling a lot nicer and more practical to live with. The milling process is only done once, but while the Sandstone will still need cleaning and sealing in the future, it won’t be nearly as difficult as when it was rough. The job would take over two weeks to complete due to the fact that the existing grout needed to be removed and replaced with a flexible floor grout: a very time consuming process. As mentioned, the surface of the Sandstone was very rough, and so needed to be milled down to make it a lot smoother to look after and make it easy to clean and seal. This was achieved by using Tile Doctor’s 50 Grit diamond encrusted burnishing pads, fitted to a weighed rotary machine and run along the entire surface area of the floor. Through this process the stone became much smoother and more aesthetic – completing one of our main objectives for the customer. Next, we started breaking out the already loose and badly applied grout with our grout removal tools. The builder who had installed the floor had used a sand/cement-based grout which wasn’t flexible. As a result, it started to crumble and loosen quite quickly after exposure to the underfloor heating. We removed this and replaced it with a far more flexible grout. Once the whole area had been successfully milled and the grout replaced, the Sandstone floor was left to dry out over the weekend. Upon our return to the property, we cleaned off any dust and resin left over from the milling and grouting processes, before leaving it to dry for a further 24 hours. The next day we returned to seal the whole floor with two coats of our impregnating sealer Tile Doctor Colour Grow. The sealer fills the pores of the Sandstone to prevent ingrained dirt and stains, while also emphasising the natural colours in the stone. It also provides a robust matte finish, which is what the customer wished for. It wasn’t the easiest of processes to get the Indian Sandstone into a condition where it would be both suitable for internal flooring and aesthetically pleasing, but the results proved to be very much worth the time and effort invested. The customer was very pleased with the transformation. Russell Taylor Lancashire Tile Doctor