When design meets technology, the result is an outdoor space that doesn’t just serve a purpose, it elevates a lifestyle. The Azenco R-BLADE™ system shown here is more than a pergola. It is a seamless architectural feature that brings luxury, performance, and beauty into perfect alignment. Crafted from high-grade aluminum with a smooth, powder-coated finish, the R-BLADE™ integrates fully motorized louvers that adjust for sun, shade, and rain protection. This space showcases the elegance of a fully enclosed ceiling system paired with open louvers over select zones blurring the line between outdoor freedom and indoor comfort. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner, enjoying Sunday brunch, or reading beneath the soft breeze of integrated ceiling fans, this pergola adapts to every moment. The concealed gutter system, ambient lighting options, and minimalist lines make it ideal for contemporary homes like this one. Unlike traditional wood or vinyl covers that fade, warp, or require frequent maintenance, Azenco pergolas are engineered to last. They resist rust, corrosion, and weathering while maintaining a premium look for years to come. With hurricane-grade durability and French-engineered precision, it’s built to endure and designed to impress. This isn’t just shade, it’s a functional design masterpiece made to inspire connection, beauty, and smart living. Let’s bring your dream patio to life. Schedule your custom design consultation today: 516-522-8249

Creating a Dream Kitchen: Where Beauty Meets Functionality
The kitchen is the heart of every modern home. Today, kitchen design goes beyond just cabinet layouts and color schemes—it’s about optimizing space and ensuring high-performance functionality. One often overlooked yet crucial element is a well-designed plumbing system, which can dramatically enhance both the aesthetics and efficiency of your space.
Hidden Plumbing: The Secret to Sleek, Modern Designs
Leading interior designers in Phoenix, Arizona, emphasize that a professional plumbing system can make a significant difference in a kitchen’s final look. Companies like APS Plumbing, with their expertise in concealed plumbing installations, help architects and homeowners achieve that flawless, minimalist design.
5 Key Plumbing Tips for an Efficient Kitchen:
Smart Placement – Strategically position faucets and drainage points to enhance both aesthetics and daily usability.
High-Quality Materials – Invest in durable pipes and fittings to minimize frequent repairs.
Professional Insulation – Prevent energy loss and reduce unwanted noise with proper pipe insulation.
Easy Access – Design the system so future repairs don’t require extensive demolition.
Appliance Compatibility – Ensure plumbing aligns with modern appliances like side-by-side refrigerators and advanced dishwashers.
Choosing the Right Professional
As seen in high-end design projects, working with experienced plumbing teams like APS Plumbing—who understand modern design needs—can prevent costly future issues. Their free pre-installation consultations help homeowners and designers choose the best solutions for combining beauty and functionality.
Final Thoughts
A truly modern kitchen achieves perfection by paying attention to every technical detail. Investing in a professional plumbing system not only increases your home’s value but also enhances everyday cooking and living experiences. For your next project, consult experts who combine technical knowledge with a strong sense of aesthetics.

Full depth utensil dividers were incorporated into the drawers immediately under the Wolf Cooktops. It's a great spot to store cooking utensils to keep them off the counter.

During normal use, hot tub water needs only to be changed about three-four times a year. Each fill up in the Long Island, NY area will require about $10 worth of water. You may want to change your water a little more often if you are using the hot tub frequently with friends and family. Changing Hot Tub Water All you need is a garden hose to fill your hot tub or empty existing water. As for electrical charges, running a Bullfrog Spa in the Long Island area will cost about $25 per month. Each Bullfrog Spa purchased at Best Hot Tubs comes with a chemical start up package. However, to maintain pristine clean water, it will require about $350 additional per year for such products as: the Spa Frog System, Shock pH plus, minus and Alkalinity, Foam Away and Test Strips.

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The Klimala’s and their three kids are no strangers to moving, this being their fifth house in the same town over the 20-year period they have lived there. “It must be the 7-year itch, because every seven years, we seem to find ourselves antsy for a new project or a new environment. I think part of it is being a designer, I see my own taste evolve and I want my environment to reflect that. Having easy access to wonderful tradesmen and a knowledge of the process makes it that much easier”. This time, Klimala’s fell in love with a somewhat unlikely candidate. The 1950’s ranch turned cape cod was a bit of a mutt, but it’s location 5 minutes from their design studio and backing up to the high school where their kids can roll out of bed and walk to school, coupled with the charm of its location on a private road and lush landscaping made it an appealing choice for them. “The bones of the house were really charming. It was typical 1,500 square foot ranch that at some point someone added a second floor to. Its sloped roofline and dormered bedrooms gave it some charm.” With the help of architect Maureen McHugh, Klimala’s gutted and reworked the layout to make the house work for them. An open concept kitchen and dining room allows for more frequent casual family dinners and dinner parties that linger. A dingy 3-season room off the back of the original house was insulated, given a vaulted ceiling with skylights and now opens up to the kitchen. This room now houses an 8’ raw edge white oak dining table and functions as an informal dining room. “One of the challenges with these mid-century homes is the 8’ ceilings. I had to have at least one room that had a higher ceiling so that’s how we did it” states Klimala. The kitchen features a 10’ island which houses a 5’0” Galley Sink. The Galley features two faucets, and double tiered rail system to which accessories such as cutting boards and stainless steel bowls can be added for ease of cooking. Across from the large sink is an induction cooktop. “My two teen daughters and I enjoy cooking, and the Galley and induction cooktop make it so easy.” A wall of tall cabinets features a full size refrigerator, freezer, double oven and built in coffeemaker. The area on the opposite end of the kitchen features a pantry with mirrored glass doors and a beverage center below. The rest of the first floor features an entry way, a living room with views to the front yard’s lush landscaping, a family room where the family hangs out to watch TV, a back entry from the garage with a laundry room and mudroom area, one of the home’s four bedrooms and a full bath. There is a double sided fireplace between the family room and living room. The home features pops of color from the living room’s peach grass cloth to purple painted wall in the family room. “I’m definitely a traditionalist at heart but because of the home’s Midcentury roots, I wanted to incorporate some of those elements into the furniture, lighting and accessories which also ended up being really fun. We are not formal people so I wanted a house that my kids would enjoy, have their friends over and feel comfortable.” The second floor houses the master bedroom suite, two of the kids’ bedrooms and a back room nicknamed “the library” because it has turned into a quiet get away area where the girls can study or take a break from the rest of the family. The area was originally unfinished attic, and because the home was short on closet space, this Jack and Jill area off the girls’ bedrooms houses two large walk-in closets and a small sitting area with a makeup vanity. “The girls really wanted to keep the exposed brick of the fireplace that runs up the through the space, so that’s what we did, and I think they feel like they are in their own little loft space in the city when they are up there” says Klimala. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Set upon an oversized and highly sought-after creekside lot in Brentwood, this ​two story home and full guest home exude a casual, contemporary farmhouse style and vibe. The main residence boasts 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, each ensuite with thoughtful touches that accentuate the home’s overall classic finishes. The master retreat opens to a large balcony overlooking the yard accented by mature bamboo and palms. Other features of the main house include European white oak floors, recessed lighting, built in speaker system, attached 2-car garage and a laundry room with 2 sets of state-of-the-art Samsung washers and dryers. The bedroom suite on the first floor enjoys its own entrance, making it ideal for guests. The open concept kitchen features Calacatta marble countertops, Wolf appliances, wine storage, dual sinks and dishwashers and a walk-in butler’s pantry. The loggia is accessed via La Cantina bi-fold doors that fully open for year-round alfresco dining on the terrace, complete with an outdoor fireplace. The wonderfully imagined yard contains a sparkling pool and spa and a crisp green lawn and lovely deck and patio areas. Step down further to find the detached guest home, which was recognized with a Decade Honor Award by the Los Angeles Chapter of the AIA in 2006, and, in fact, was a frequent haunt of Frank Gehry who inspired its cubist design. The guest house has a bedroom and bathroom, living area, a newly updated kitchen and is surrounded by lush landscaping that maximizes its creekside setting, creating a truly serene oasis.

The interior of the cabinets in this kitchen were not working well for the homeowner. They wanted to keep their kitchen design and improve the functionality with convenient storage options. We added 2 garbage drawers that worked around the sink plumbing, double tiered corner cabinet pull out system and roll out drawers in other cabinets.

Set upon an oversized and highly sought-after creekside lot in Brentwood, this ​two story home and full guest home exude a casual, contemporary farmhouse style and vibe. The main residence boasts 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, each ensuite with thoughtful touches that accentuate the home’s overall classic finishes. The master retreat opens to a large balcony overlooking the yard accented by mature bamboo and palms. Other features of the main house include European white oak floors, recessed lighting, built in speaker system, attached 2-car garage and a laundry room with 2 sets of state-of-the-art Samsung washers and dryers. The bedroom suite on the first floor enjoys its own entrance, making it ideal for guests. The open concept kitchen features Calacatta marble countertops, Wolf appliances, wine storage, dual sinks and dishwashers and a walk-in butler’s pantry. The loggia is accessed via La Cantina bi-fold doors that fully open for year-round alfresco dining on the terrace, complete with an outdoor fireplace. The wonderfully imagined yard contains a sparkling pool and spa and a crisp green lawn and lovely deck and patio areas. Step down further to find the detached guest home, which was recognized with a Decade Honor Award by the Los Angeles Chapter of the AIA in 2006, and, in fact, was a frequent haunt of Frank Gehry who inspired its cubist design. The guest house has a bedroom and bathroom, living area, a newly updated kitchen and is surrounded by lush landscaping that maximizes its creekside setting, creating a truly serene oasis.

Laundry room - traditional laundry room idea in Philadelphia

Rooftop Garden drip irrigation c: RR Irrigation
Trendy exterior home photo in New York

At the intersection of functionality and style you will find this completely reimagined Transitional style kitchen — a highlight in our client’s beloved Derwood, Maryland home. Chateau tiling begins in the foyer and expands out into the kitchen for a seamless look and feel. Once in the kitchen you are greeted with a subtle sparkle from the Mystic-Glass backsplash and Blanco Crystal countertops. The richly contrasted perimeter and wall cabinetry allows for the ultimate in organized and easy-to-clean living. Appliance and spice rack hideaways are delightful accents for the passionate home chef! The under-cabinet lighting with adjustable color sets the mood — whether entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet, cozy meal with family. Built-in TV to stay caught up on the day’s news. A full built-in beverage center makes entertaining a breeze and the under-cabinet reverse osmosis filtration system ensures long-lasting clean, healthy water without the need for frequent filter changes.

Discover an unparalleled, luxurious outdoor resort defined by clean, contemporary lines and multi-functional zones, expertly designed for both grand entertaining and tranquil personal indulgence. This premier project centers on a sleek rectangular pool featuring a deep, inviting blue interior perfectly framed by bright, light-toned coping. The design always incorporates a generous, shallow tanning ledge for ultimate sunbathing comfort, often allowing for in-pool furniture. An integrated raised spa serves as a luxurious sanctuary, clad either in dark stacked stone or shimmering blue mosaic tile. This spa is frequently elevated and accented by a dramatic water feature, employing elegant sheer descent scuppers or waterfalls that cascade into the water, providing a constant element of soothing sound and motion. The surrounding leisure area showcases sophisticated landscaping and hardscaping, utilizing both expansive, light-toned paving and lush artificial turf. The turf areas are often sectioned by bold, geometric stepping stones, enhancing the modern aesthetic. The retreat thoughtfully creates distinct zones for activity and relaxation, ranging from built-in lounge areas with square fire pits to elaborate covered pavilions with integrated seating, fireplaces, and entertainment systems. This versatile environment successfully combines high-end style with family-friendly recreation, sometimes even including a custom putting green or an in-pool basketball hoop.

Discover an unparalleled, luxurious outdoor resort defined by clean, contemporary lines and multi-functional zones, expertly designed for both grand entertaining and tranquil personal indulgence. This premier project centers on a sleek rectangular pool featuring a deep, inviting blue interior perfectly framed by bright, light-toned coping. The design always incorporates a generous, shallow tanning ledge for ultimate sunbathing comfort, often allowing for in-pool furniture. An integrated raised spa serves as a luxurious sanctuary, clad either in dark stacked stone or shimmering blue mosaic tile. This spa is frequently elevated and accented by a dramatic water feature, employing elegant sheer descent scuppers or waterfalls that cascade into the water, providing a constant element of soothing sound and motion. The surrounding leisure area showcases sophisticated landscaping and hardscaping, utilizing both expansive, light-toned paving and lush artificial turf. The turf areas are often sectioned by bold, geometric stepping stones, enhancing the modern aesthetic. The retreat thoughtfully creates distinct zones for activity and relaxation, ranging from built-in lounge areas with square fire pits to elaborate covered pavilions with integrated seating, fireplaces, and entertainment systems. This versatile environment successfully combines high-end style with family-friendly recreation, sometimes even including a custom putting green or an in-pool basketball hoop.

Discover an unparalleled, luxurious outdoor resort defined by clean, contemporary lines and multi-functional zones, expertly designed for both grand entertaining and tranquil personal indulgence. This premier project centers on a sleek rectangular pool featuring a deep, inviting blue interior perfectly framed by bright, light-toned coping. The design always incorporates a generous, shallow tanning ledge for ultimate sunbathing comfort, often allowing for in-pool furniture. An integrated raised spa serves as a luxurious sanctuary, clad either in dark stacked stone or shimmering blue mosaic tile. This spa is frequently elevated and accented by a dramatic water feature, employing elegant sheer descent scuppers or waterfalls that cascade into the water, providing a constant element of soothing sound and motion. The surrounding leisure area showcases sophisticated landscaping and hardscaping, utilizing both expansive, light-toned paving and lush artificial turf. The turf areas are often sectioned by bold, geometric stepping stones, enhancing the modern aesthetic. The retreat thoughtfully creates distinct zones for activity and relaxation, ranging from built-in lounge areas with square fire pits to elaborate covered pavilions with integrated seating, fireplaces, and entertainment systems. This versatile environment successfully combines high-end style with family-friendly recreation, sometimes even including a custom putting green or an in-pool basketball hoop.

Discover an unparalleled, luxurious outdoor resort defined by clean, contemporary lines and multi-functional zones, expertly designed for both grand entertaining and tranquil personal indulgence. This premier project centers on a sleek rectangular pool featuring a deep, inviting blue interior perfectly framed by bright, light-toned coping. The design always incorporates a generous, shallow tanning ledge for ultimate sunbathing comfort, often allowing for in-pool furniture. An integrated raised spa serves as a luxurious sanctuary, clad either in dark stacked stone or shimmering blue mosaic tile. This spa is frequently elevated and accented by a dramatic water feature, employing elegant sheer descent scuppers or waterfalls that cascade into the water, providing a constant element of soothing sound and motion. The surrounding leisure area showcases sophisticated landscaping and hardscaping, utilizing both expansive, light-toned paving and lush artificial turf. The turf areas are often sectioned by bold, geometric stepping stones, enhancing the modern aesthetic. The retreat thoughtfully creates distinct zones for activity and relaxation, ranging from built-in lounge areas with square fire pits to elaborate covered pavilions with integrated seating, fireplaces, and entertainment systems. This versatile environment successfully combines high-end style with family-friendly recreation, sometimes even including a custom putting green or an in-pool basketball hoop.

Discover an unparalleled, luxurious outdoor resort defined by clean, contemporary lines and multi-functional zones, expertly designed for both grand entertaining and tranquil personal indulgence. This premier project centers on a sleek rectangular pool featuring a deep, inviting blue interior perfectly framed by bright, light-toned coping. The design always incorporates a generous, shallow tanning ledge for ultimate sunbathing comfort, often allowing for in-pool furniture. An integrated raised spa serves as a luxurious sanctuary, clad either in dark stacked stone or shimmering blue mosaic tile. This spa is frequently elevated and accented by a dramatic water feature, employing elegant sheer descent scuppers or waterfalls that cascade into the water, providing a constant element of soothing sound and motion. The surrounding leisure area showcases sophisticated landscaping and hardscaping, utilizing both expansive, light-toned paving and lush artificial turf. The turf areas are often sectioned by bold, geometric stepping stones, enhancing the modern aesthetic. The retreat thoughtfully creates distinct zones for activity and relaxation, ranging from built-in lounge areas with square fire pits to elaborate covered pavilions with integrated seating, fireplaces, and entertainment systems. This versatile environment successfully combines high-end style with family-friendly recreation, sometimes even including a custom putting green or an in-pool basketball hoop.

This custom mudroom combines clean architectural lines with practical everyday storage. A soft sage-gray shiplap accent wall creates a beautiful backdrop for the built-in organization system, complemented by a warm natural wood shelf with black metal brackets. Multiple matte-black coat hooks provide convenient storage for jackets, bags, and everyday essentials, while three woven baskets add warmth and concealed storage above. The custom built-in bench offers comfortable seating with three open cubbies below for shoes, baskets, or frequently used items. The decorative patterned floor tile adds character and visual interest, completing a functional yet polished transitional design ideal for a mudroom, laundry room, or family entry.

Discover an unparalleled, luxurious outdoor resort defined by clean, contemporary lines and multi-functional zones, expertly designed for both grand entertaining and tranquil personal indulgence. This premier project centers on a sleek rectangular pool featuring a deep, inviting blue interior perfectly framed by bright, light-toned coping. The design always incorporates a generous, shallow tanning ledge for ultimate sunbathing comfort, often allowing for in-pool furniture. An integrated raised spa serves as a luxurious sanctuary, clad either in dark stacked stone or shimmering blue mosaic tile. This spa is frequently elevated and accented by a dramatic water feature, employing elegant sheer descent scuppers or waterfalls that cascade into the water, providing a constant element of soothing sound and motion. The surrounding leisure area showcases sophisticated landscaping and hardscaping, utilizing both expansive, light-toned paving and lush artificial turf. The turf areas are often sectioned by bold, geometric stepping stones, enhancing the modern aesthetic. The retreat thoughtfully creates distinct zones for activity and relaxation, ranging from built-in lounge areas with square fire pits to elaborate covered pavilions with integrated seating, fireplaces, and entertainment systems. This versatile environment successfully combines high-end style with family-friendly recreation, sometimes even including a custom putting green or an in-pool basketball hoop.