Weston MA real estate agent, Amy Mizner, presents this new home, ready for construction. Elevated to a new level of luxury, a stone and shingle new construction home is being offered by an award winning development team. Comprising over 11,000 SF, the innovative design, by an acclaimed New England architect, is just the starting point. The extraordinarily private 5 acre setting abuts conservation land and scenic town trails. A winding driveway reveals the unique, estate building site with tremendous potential for building a pool, pool house or tennis court. Schedule an appointment for a private tour of the property and begin a collaborative journey to build your dream home. - See more at: http://www.benoitmiznersimon.com/homes/441_Glen_Rd/Weston/MA/02493/AGT-10171651903-831317/index.html#sthash.7rNPvYyq.dpuf

The steep hillside lot had been developed with a single-family residence (1965), which was at the maximum area for local zoning; therefore, the only way to enlarge the residence was to add a basement. During the cost analysis process, it became clear that supporting the house while creating a basement – and then substantially remodeling the remaining structure – would require far more effort and treasure than to replace the house entirely. Located just over one mile from the San Andreas Fault, the Owners tasked the design team to find a superior solution to the “Life Safety” standard required by Code. The team combined advances in seismic analysis and building technology to create for the owners one of the most seismically resilient houses built in the US. The newly designed house takes full advantage of the potential of this beautiful site. The home centers on large public rooms opening to outdoor spaces and the use of natural light. On the top level, the kitchen and family room sit side-by-side creating a shared space, with an expansive floor-to-ceiling folding door system allowing the rooms to open completely to the south-facing upper terrace and garage roof deck. An outdoor cooking area supports both family dinners as well as large gatherings of friends and family. Also on the top level, a living room and lounge area open to a large deck cantilevered high above the ground and oriented to the northern views. The feeling of being “in the trees” enhances the connection to the impressive landscape.

This large sloped lot in Serrano was a new construction project and required low water demand planting with a new pool & backyard entertainment space for the family. To mitigate potential fire risks and maintenance on the rear slopes we installed a native "Mow Free" grass on the slopes which can be kept green with minimal water or not irrigated after getting established which would turn brown in the summer and green in the winter.

Our project Traditional Landscape - Fox Point, WI was featured in the June 2016 issue of M Magazine in the story "Extended Potential".
Large elegant stone patio photo in Milwaukee with a fire pit

Standard annual or mechanical Chimney cleaning for gas and wood burning fireplaces typically works to remove any type of buildup as well as checking for the structural integrity of the chimney. Maintaining an annual chimney cleaning will meet the national safety standard set by the NFPA, CSIA, IRC and NCSG, helping homeowners avoid chimney fires and blockages. Why does safety matter? Did you know that there was a chimney fire in Marengo in January? Or a chimney fire at a Peotone home at the end of March? Or a log cabin fire caused by the chimney in June? That’s just a few that happened in the past 7 months. Why Does a Chimney Cleaning Matter? Chimney sweeps also known as chimney cleanings, fireplace cleanings, or fireplace sweeps. Regardless of what you call it, it still means the same thing. Chimney cleaning for gas and wood burning fireplaces serve 3 key purposes: confirming structural integrity removing flammable deposits and obstruction-free assurance. Homeowners with gas or wood burning fireplaces benefit from each of these safeguards. The National Fire Protection Association addresses this directly through NFPA 211, a widely recognized fire safety code. The standard states that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents require inspection at least once a year for soundness, free from deposits, and correct clearances, with cleaning, maintenance, and repairs to be done whenever needed. This annual requirement applies equally to gas and wood burning fireplaces. Organizations including the Chimney Safety Institute of America, the National Chimney Sweep Guild, International Residential code and the National Fire Protection Association each reference this standard as the requirement for home fire safety. Free 14-Point Certified Written Inspection Every chimney sweep completed through Superior Chimney includes a complimentary 14-point certified written inspection along with photo documentation delivered to you by email. This documentation gives homeowners a clear visual record of their chimney system. The written report covers the condition of the flue liner, smoke chamber, smoke shelf, damper, firebox, chimney crown, and chimney cap, among other components examined during a standard visit. Photo documentation captures each area so homeowners can review the findings independently of the technician’s verbal summary. Written inspection reports allow families to track the condition of their fireplace chimney system over time. Chimney Cleaning and Structural Integrity A CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep technician, such as Superior Chimney technicians, visually examines the chimney from the top opening to the firebox below, gaining a full evaluation of the interior. When chimney rods and brushes pass through the chimney system, loose pieces of fire clay tile, damaged tile joints, or crumbling brick sometimes fall down into the fireplace. This debris can mean there is an integrity problem. By knowing this is a problem, will protect families and their homes. Now it’s time to take care of it and call in a certified chimney technician. Fireplace Cleaning and Creosote Removal Creosote, is the technical name for soot. Soot forms as a natural byproduct of burning wood. Smoke traveling upward through the chimney and leaves deposits of creosote along the interior walls. With every fire, a little more gets built up. The issue with creosote is that it is highly flammable and is the leading cause of chimney fires nationwide. Removing the buildup through regular chimney cleanings keeps a fireplace serviceable for continuous use throughout the spring, fall and winter seasons. Standard and mechanical chimney cleanings pay close attention to the flue liner, smoke chamber, smoke shelf, damper, and firebox in a single service visit. Superior Chimney performs each fireplace chimney inspection using a no-mess process that protects the home during service. This keeps soot contained within specialized equipment rather than the living room. An Obstruction Free Chimney Several conditions create blockages within a chimney system. Bird, squirrel, bat and raccoon nesting material, feces, and debris frequently accumulate inside an unprotected flue, especially during spring and summer months when the fireplace sits unused. Excessive creosote accumulation or a collapsed chimney liner can restrict proper airflow. Homeowners that address obstructions with a chimney inspection will be able to maintain proper draft and ventilation with their gas or wood burning fireplace. This will reduce the risk of smoke backing into the home. Gas Chimney Cleaning Compared to Wood burning Chimney Cleaning Gas and wood burning fireplaces share the same annual chimney inspection requirement. Whether you are burning wood, gas or a “pile of shirts” there is still heat and flame that requires worthy firewalls to protect the home from heat transfer. Fire worthiness and checking the firewall integrity is priority. Wood burning fireplaces generate creosote that builds along the flue liner with every fire. Gas fireplace systems accumulate lighter deposits along with potential venting obstructions, since gas appliances rely heavily on venting for safe combustion byproduct release. Each system accumulates different residues that need attention. A CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep technician from Superior Chimney adjusts the specific cleaning approach based on fuel type. However, the same core safety elements apply: structural integrity, deposit removal, and clear airflow. What Happens During a Chimney Cleaning? A typical chimney inspection begins with a walkthrough of the fireplace and the chimney on top of the roof, allowing the technician to record any visible concerns the homeowner reported in advance as well as any new findings. The certified technician then covers the immediate hearth area with protective material before setting up specialized equipment designed to contain creosote throughout the cleaning and inspection. Chimney rods and brushes pass through the flue liner to loosen and remove creosote deposits along the smoke chamber, smoke shelf, and damper. The certified technician inspects each section closely for loose or crumbling firewall, cracked joints, or other signs of weak structural damage. A final walkthrough of the firebox and chimney completes the visual inspection. Photo documentation captures each component, and the certified written report is sent to the homeowner by email. This consistent process gives homeowners the documentation they need to compare year to year. Chimney Cleaning Safety Standards The table below summarizes the organizations that set national chimney safety standards, along with their specific requirements for fireplace chimney sweeps. NFPA211 National Fire Protection Association Annual inspection for soundness, deposit buildup, and correct clearances; cleaning and repairs completed as needed CSIA Chimney Safety Institute of America Certifies technicians through testing on chimney and venting system knowledge NCSG National Chimney Sweep Guild Establishes trade standards and best practices for chimney sweep professionals How Often Should You Schedule a Chimney Cleaning and Inspection? CSIA recommends scheduling chimney cleaning and inspection annually by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps. This recommendation applies to gas and wood burning fireplaces, regardless of how frequently a household uses the fireplace and especially in freeze/thaw geographic areas. Regular chimney sweeps save lives, since a clean fireplace chimney rarely catches fire. CSIA encourages homeowners to rely on Certified Chimney Sweeps, as these technicians undergo regular testing on the complexities of chimney and venting systems throughout their careers. Frequently Asked Questions What is included in a chimney sweep? A chimney sweep includes the flue liner, smoke chamber, smoke shelf, damper, and firebox, removing creosote while checking for obstructions and structural concerns throughout the chimney system (NOT the ashpit). How often should gas and wood burning fireplaces receive chimney sweeps? CSIA, NFPA, IRC and NCSG guidelines each call for chimney sweeps at least once a year for gas and wood burning fireplace systems. Why does creosote removal matter for fireplace safety? Creosote is highly flammable and builds along the interior walls of a fireplace chimney with every fire, creating conditions that lead directly to chimney fires when left in place over time. Creosote is unburned particles from the combustion chamber. Who should perform a fireplace chimney sweep? CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep technicians complete fireplace chimney sweeps after passing regular testing on chimney and venting system knowledge, meeting the certification standard recognized across the industry. Does a fireplace chimney sweep remove animal nests and debris? No, a fireplace chimney sweep addresses soot and creosote, while significant nesting material, feces, or collapsed liner debris often calls for dedicated obstruction removal alongside the standard service. What does the free 14-point inspection include? The complimentary 14-point certified written inspection documents the flue liner, smoke chamber, smoke shelf, damper, firebox, crown, and cap through photo evidence delivered directly by email for homeowner records. Choose Superior Chimney for Your Certified Chimney Inspection All service technicians completing chimney sweeps through Superior Chimney hold National Certification through the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), reflecting the training standard recommended by fire safety organizations nationwide. Scheduling regular chimney sweeps to clean gas and wood burning fireplace systems protects a home from fire risk, preserves the structural integrity of the chimney, and keeps airflow clear for proper, continuous use throughout the year. Contact us today to schedule a chimney inspection at 877-244-6349.

Is it necessary to clean gas fireplace? It’s intuitive that the dark black buildup of combustion needs to be cleaned from a typical wood burning fireplace, but is it needed to clean a gas fireplace? It’s gas…right? Gas fireplaces do not have a visible buildup of combustion, but should be cleaned at least once a year to prevent serious problems with the fireplace. Gas vs. Wood Burning Fireplaces When thinking of the inside of a family home, we think about the most comfortable room: the living room or family room. This is where the family meets, watches movies, and plays board games during rainy days, evenings and family time. It usually has a lofty, cozy couch and a wood burning fireplace. Nothing’s more comforting than falling asleep to the dim light of the fireplace and faint smell of burning wood. Nowadays, we have a close alternative to this old fashioned comfort: the gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces don’t leave much creosote behind, however gas fireplaces should be cleaned once a year, per the CSIA, due to dust, pet hair, insects, and other debris that can build up and cause performance problems. Chimney sweep are primarily for firewall worthiness assurance, cleaning and obstruction free assurance. Gas fireplaces look similar to wood burning fireplaces, with a live flame. The logs inside the gas fireplace look real, but are not actually burning. Oftentimes, they are made of ceramic. A gas fireplace produces much less heat than a wood burning fireplace, but can retain more heat inside your home based on its type and configuration. Gas fireplaces can be low maintenance and energy friendly alternatives to a wood burning fireplace. Some Signs to Clean Gas Fireplace 1. Buildup: Although gas fireplaces do not produce as much visible flammable and hazardous buildup, it does produce some corrosive substances and flue gasses that may settle inside your home without you knowing. Burning natural gas leaves a residue that must be cleaned annually. Failing to clean the residue may cause health risks if left untouched. 2. Technical Issues: There may be technical problems that are not visible, such as issues with the burner. Gas fireplaces are usually built to last long term but it’s imperative to check if there are any unnoticed technical issues at least once a year. 3. Gas Leaks: Over time, valves and pipes turn weaker and become corroded. It’s important to inspect these valves, as a gas leak is extremely hazardous. A certified chimney specialist must inspect and determine any damage or future damage to prevent this serious problem. 4. Condensation: Due to the high temperatures in the flue, there’s a buildup of condensation when the fireplace vapors are cooled. Natural gas exhaust also contains a high content of water vapor in emissions. The condensation reacts with byproducts and is acidic and corrosive, and must be cleaned at least once a year to not pose a potential health hazard. It’s just as important to clean a gas fireplace at least once a year to prevent long term issues that could pose health risks if not cared for. A certified chimney professional from Superior Chimney will inspect and sweep the fireplace and ventilation system. Contact us today to clean gas fireplace at 877-244-6349.

This large sloped lot in Serrano was a new construction project and required low water demand planting with a new pool & backyard entertainment space for the family. To mitigate potential fire risks and maintenance on the rear slopes we installed a native "Mow Free" grass on the slopes which can be kept green with minimal water or not irrigated after getting established which would turn brown in the summer and green in the winter.

After undertaking a few minor updates over the years, these homeowners came to us ready to tear out their kitchen and start from scratch. The existing kitchen was large, but not laid out well for the everyday use it was getting. A bulky double fireplace in the center of the living space took up a lot of room and made the dining room feel disconnected from the kitchen, despite the substantial opening between the two. We removed the oversized wood burning fireplace and replaced it with a smaller gas one with shiplap above, creating a stylish featured piece. Meanwhile the kitchen was reimagined and reorganized into a functional space for a home chef that will work better for years to come. These homeowners’ main concern was to update the style and function, as well as having quality materials that would stand the test of time. They wanted updated, gray cabinets; but didn’t want to lose any of the warm feeling of their home. Together with our design team they chose a light, warm gray for the perimeter cabinets and a darker gray to make the island a focal piece. The warm, light colored quartz countertops blend with the lighter gray and contrast nicely with the island. The textured dark blue backsplash tile adds a fun and exciting pop of color without stealing attention from any of the other pieces. To further maintain the warmth, they chose a rich walnut flooring with bold grain patterns. When the homeowners fell in love with some contemporary brass colored light fixtures, they were nervous that they would compete with their stainless steel appliances and other silver toned pieces. By keeping all the lights in the same color family, we were able to achieve a look that feels intentional and modern. The corner 3-light pendant adds light and interest to the space. Not wanting to take up wall cabinet space with a bulky microwave, they opted for one built into a base cabinet. The other small appliances are neatly hidden away behind custom appliance garages. For the fireplace, we focused on a clean, bright look that would stand out and look beautiful without competing with the neighboring kitchen. A small powder bathroom was also reorganized to better utilize the potential storage space and add counter space for guests. The style of the kitchen cabinetry was incorporated into the bathroom as well as into the dining room, which featured glass front cabinets to display dishes and mementos. The redesigned space resulted in a warm and beautiful kitchen and dining area that will be enjoyed for years to come. The main floor living space now feels as cohesive as it was always meant to.

Timeless, warm French limestone with a medium grain, medium dark beige color, embedded with small fossils. The potential uses are limitless. Featured here with a brushed finish.

This large sloped lot in Serrano was a new construction project and required low water demand planting with a new pool & backyard entertainment space for the family. To mitigate potential fire risks and maintenance on the rear slopes we installed a native "Mow Free" grass on the slopes which can be kept green with minimal water or not irrigated after getting established which would turn brown in the summer and green in the winter.

Bathroom - bathroom idea in Other

This is a substantial remodel. The existing kitchen was outdated, small, and enclosed. The owner wanted light and view. There was potential to work with. The remodel included demolishing walls and incorporating an adjacent patio and laundry area to create an open-floor kitchen. New windows were created to capture views into the garden, as well as a large skylight to capture more light. The connection with the dining room was improved with a pair of large sliding doors. The color pallet and material selection is timeless yet warm to reflect the personality and taste of the owners.

This is a substantial remodel. The existing kitchen was outdated, small, and enclosed. The owner wanted light and view. There was potential to work with. The remodel included demolishing walls and incorporating an adjacent patio and laundry area to create an open-floor kitchen. New windows were created to capture views into the garden, as well as a large skylight to capture more light. The connection with the dining room was improved with a pair of large sliding doors. The color pallet and material selection is timeless yet warm to reflect the personality and taste of the owners.

This large sloped lot in Serrano was a new construction project and required low water demand planting with a new pool & backyard entertainment space for the family. To mitigate potential fire risks and maintenance on the rear slopes we installed a native "Mow Free" grass on the slopes which can be kept green with minimal water or not irrigated after getting established which would turn brown in the summer and green in the winter.

This large sloped lot in Serrano was a new construction project and required low water demand planting with a new pool & backyard entertainment space for the family. To mitigate potential fire risks and maintenance on the rear slopes we installed a native "Mow Free" grass on the slopes which can be kept green with minimal water or not irrigated after getting established which would turn brown in the summer and green in the winter.

When it comes to hiring general contractors in Los Angeles, you can rest assured that we would offer you the right solutions at the right prices. Our kitchen remodeling service in Los Angeles is meant to suit your needs as our bathroom remodeling service in Los Angeles focuses on style and functionality. Kitchen Remodel in Los Angeles, CA - https://www.jayremodeling.com/

AFTER making adjustments and suggestions following Feng shui principles house was sold in less than two days for full price. Prior to that it was on the market for two month with lot of interest but no closing deals. Establishing the appropriate energy flow in the house and maximizing the potential we improve longevity and prosperity of its owners.

Some rooms never quite find their purpose. That was the case with this space, which had gradually become a combination home office, pantry overflow area, pet zone, and general catch-all for daily life. While it offered plenty of square footage, it wasn’t helping the homeowners stay organized, and valuable storage was scattered between an overcrowded pantry closet and various pieces of furniture throughout the room. Having previously partnered with Drury Design on a kitchen remodel, these homeowners once again turned to Senior Designer Samantha Schoell to help them rethink how their home could better support the way they actually live. What began as a conversation about adding some cabinetry quickly evolved into a comprehensive storage solution — one designed to accommodate everything from groceries and sports equipment to pet supplies and everyday household essentials. Design Objectives: Create Organization: Consolidate pantry overflow, household supplies, and everyday essentials into a single, highly functional space. Support Family Life: Provide dedicated storage for coats, bags, sports equipment, and the routines of an active household. Accommodate Pets: Incorporate thoughtful features for the family’s dogs while maintaining a clean, organized appearance. Maximize Existing Space: Transform an underutilized room without expanding the home’s footprint. Maintain Flexibility: Preserve the room’s long-term versatility and appeal for future homeowners. Design Challenges: Multiple Functions: The room was being used simultaneously as a home office, pantry, storage area, and pet space without a cohesive organizational strategy. Insufficient Pantry Storage: The nearby pantry closet had become overcrowded and difficult to navigate. Visual Clutter: Everyday items, pet supplies, and household necessities lacked dedicated storage locations. Unused Potential: Despite its generous size, the room was not contributing meaningfully to the home’s overall functionality. Balancing Practicality and Style: The homeowners wanted substantial storage without creating a space that felt overly utilitarian. Design Solutions: Purpose-Built Storage Plan: Custom cabinetry was designed to support multiple functions within a unified storage system, allowing the room to serve as a mudroom, pantry extension, household hub, and pet station. Expanded Pantry Capacity: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a secondary refrigerator, and extensive drawer storage dramatically increased food storage and organization capabilities. Hidden Organization: Closed cabinetry conceals household items, sports gear, pet supplies, and everyday clutter, creating a calm and orderly appearance. Full-Room Transformation: Rather than simply adding cabinets to one wall, the design reimagined the entire room, utilizing its footprint to create a true family command center. Furniture-Inspired Cabinetry: Warm wood finishes, decorative hardware, open display shelving, and thoughtful detailing elevate the room beyond pure utility, helping it feel like a natural extension of the home’s design. The most successful remodeling projects often solve problems homeowners have simply learned to live with. In this case, a room that once served several purposes — but excelled at none — was transformed into one of the hardest-working spaces in the home. Today, groceries, pet supplies, seasonal gear, household essentials, and daily routines all have a designated place. Even the family’s dogs were thoughtfully considered, with a built-in resting area integrated into the cabinetry. The result is a room that feels remarkably organized despite supporting countless everyday activities — a reflection of how thoughtful design can bring clarity, efficiency, and calm to the busiest parts of family life.

This large sloped lot in Serrano was a new construction project and required low water demand planting with a new pool & backyard entertainment space for the family. To mitigate potential fire risks and maintenance on the rear slopes we installed a native "Mow Free" grass on the slopes which can be kept green with minimal water or not irrigated after getting established which would turn brown in the summer and green in the winter.