Search results for "Systems increases" in Home Design Ideas

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space.
Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings.
Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes.
Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command.
Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models.
Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices.
Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor.
Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated.
If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

The original home was a tiny 1000 square foot house that had been built in the 40's and never had been updated, typical of many of Los Angeles' post-war neighborhoods. By converting the attached single-car garage into living space and strategically re-configuring walls, we accomplished an open floor plan that dramatically increased the spaciousness of the house, while sticking to a limited budget.
To minimize the environmental impact of our project, we donated and reused materials as much as possible, and chose new finishes such as bamboo and cork floors, and Kirei board. The durability and recycled content of materials were also considered in their selection.
Energy efficiency was also a concern. Thus appliances and heating systems were selected for their efficiency, and LED lighting was installed in the kitchen.

This pool just screams outdoor fun! Pool Fountains are such a valuable asset, they not only look cool but they also add some benefits. Pool Fountains cool the water through aeration. When the pool water is sprayed into the air, oxygen is introduced to all the tiny droplets. This cools them down. When they fall back into the pool, they bring that cooler temperature with them. Run a fountain long enough, and you can see a drop in temperature from 2 to 4 degrees. You know pool circulation is essential to distributing water chemicals, moving pool water through the filtration system, and preventing yucky things from growing in stagnant water. You may already suspect this from personal experience. But it’s documented that listening to water sounds has a stress-reducing effect for many people. Swimming is already one way to lower stress. Add a fountain to your pool, and increase that benefit even more. Pool fountains create some of that fun, and can possibly even keep a rainbow around for a little longer than one splash could. They’re just pretty. Pool fountains you install may not be masterpiece sculptures, but a fanned water spray is just as beautiful to watch.
Find the right local pro for your project

More than just a cosmetic remodel, this kitchen and dining room received a dynamic floor plan update. Without having to add square footage, we were able to double the size of the kitchen, add a wine bar, and increase the size of the previously disconnected dining room. Interior walls were removed to accomplish this open concept entertaining area. Harwood flooring throughout the areas connect the kitchen and dining areas, as well as warm up the space and add character. The warm gray accent cabinets coordinate and compliment the white kitchen. The large glass door system brings the outdoors in and allows for seamless entertaining and dining. The landscaping in the backyard was completely redone, including hardscape, walk ways, fire features, and pergola and trellis structures. The upstairs bath is an unexpected surprise with navy blue cabinetry, polished nickel plumbing fixtures, and glass accent tile. The cement look floor tile is both sophisticated and unique.

The client's master suite was dark with outdated wallpaper. They wanted the vanity with the floating mirrors to remain the focal point of the bathroom, so for the most part, the layout stayed the same. We went in, removed all finishes and started over; keeping with the style of the house. Grand Mirrors with integrated lighting were installed over the center vanities. The only change in the layout was that the bath tub was removed and replaced shower. The shower was lined with solid white marble tiles and accented with a cool Valentino parquet marble. The old shower became a linen storage closet and cabinets for additional storage. The lower cabinets are a deep espresso finish with contrasting linen finished cabinets up top. The door to the water closet was replaced with a pocket door, creating more space.
The guest bathroom felt claustrophobic with the wall between the vanity and toilet/shower area. We removed the wall and used a pony wall at the end of the vanity instead to hide the toilet. Being a guest bath there was no need double sinks, so one was removed, increasing the cabinet space. The crown molding stayed but the popcorn ceiling texture was removed in both bathrooms. The clients love their new sleek, brighter bathrooms.
Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

The design of this master bathroom is set to compliment the natural stone slab floor that sets the tone for this room. Because the entire second floor of the house was renovated into a master suite, the client requested an open concept plan for the entire suite.
This allowed Equilibrium to increase the floor area of the bathroom and design an incredible statement piece which is the floor. Honey onyx slabs were cut into oversized tiles to make them more manageable and installed in a diamond pattern preserving continuity of lines from tile to tile, and slab to slab. Furthermore, what otherwise would be waste cut material, it was chiseled, flamed, and fabricated into custom mosaic installed on the back wall of the bathroom and on shower floor.
To ensure Client’s safety, slabs were treated with anti slippage treatment and shower floor was finished with matching mosaic.
Client requested that the shower is oversized and feels like showering under a waterfall. This was accomplished by running four separate water lines to feed the shower plumbing. When the two oversized rain heads, two shower heads, and six water jets are all on, you get the feeling of being under a natural waterfall in the Amazon. Non of this would be possible in today’s water starved world if it wasn’t for harvesting and special filtration system installed on this property that allows recirculation of water.
Variation of lighting types allows for various theme settings, and energy efficient LED lighting further enhance the beauty of this bathroom with minimum energy consumption.
Even edges of slabs were polished to ensure maximum light refraction with beveled seams that create purposeful patterns instead of hiding seams. Shower doors were etched with a pattern that adds dimension and provides privacy while complimenting the mosaic pattern on the back wall.
The double sink vanity was floated off the floor allowing for maximum visibility of this artistic installation. It was made of rosewood and designed with three sections for drawers and storage. The three levels create a scalloping effect allowing each to be illuminated by LED lights which reflect elegantly in the onyx slab floor. Complimented by honey onyx top, and placed against a 42” high onyx wainscot, it is a functional and beautiful millwork.
This master bathroom is a testament to engineering, originality, and beauty seen in every detail.
Interior Design, Decorating & Project Management by Equilibrium Interior Design Inc
Photography by Craig Denis

The goal here is to install washer and dryer under countertop. To solve this task, countertop was elevated a little bit higher then average standard. Since space under countertop is busy with washer and dryer, the biggest challenge was to install sink boul. If simply put sink on the countertop, then it goes to high, because countertop already was elevated to allow washer and dryer remain under it. I did not consider shallow sinks, because they are not convenient at all. Also it was not possible to install under mount sink, because there are washer and dryer. Eventually i found sink that is half in, and half above countertop, and increase a little bit of countertop thickness. As a result this solution allow to have both washer and dryer, comfortable pretty deep sink and huge countertop to keep bathroom stuff on it.
Another important element in the bathroom is tankless electrical water heater, Its New York, so water tank for all units installed on the roof. Building is old and big, so sometimes building tank is lack of hot water. To set tankless electrical water heater two extra valves were installed on hot and cold pipes. In case there is no hot water, i close main hot water valve, open cold one that right before heater, to let cold water go inside heater, and open another valve, that deliver hot water into the system after heater. This task also required installation of new electrical cable, because tankless heaters requires a lot of power.
The last thing is pretty big, 48”x30”, embedded wall cabinet, with three big parts and mirror doors. To support this cabinet, extra wood frame structure was built inside wall, that was designed thicker to allow build-in cabinet set inside.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space.
Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings.
Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes.
Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command.
Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models.
Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices.
Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor.
Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated.
If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

Wine tasting tables give this custom wine cellar in Chicago greater functionality, and offer a nice place for wine lovers to sit and enjoy their favorite drink.
We constructed the wine cabinets in unfinished and lacquered white oak and the interior wine racks from unfinished mahogany. Mahogany is a type of wood popular for its natural beauty and durability.
The rolling library ladders were a great addition to the wine cellar space. They provide convenience in accessing wines located high above the racking.
The LED lighting system we installed add a warm ambiance to the hotel's dining area. Making sure that your customers have an unforgettable experience in your establishment can help increase sales.
Take a video tour of this project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bFYemSqEMA
Wine Cellar Specialists
+1 (773) 234-0112
http://www.winecellarspec.com
info@winecellarspec.com
Check us out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WineCellarSpecialists

Patio kitchen plans these days require the ability to incorporate high-tech, modern appliances into rustic, timeless – even ancient-looking – outdoor design styles.
You can see this juxtaposition pulled off perfectly in this outdoor kitchen by Outdoor Homescapes of Houston.
“A smart patio kitchen plan requires not only a balance of the new and old,” says Outdoor Homescapes owner Wayne Franks, “but a blending of new elements – like an outdoor kitchen – with the existing home and outdoor living features like a pool, hardscaping or landscaping.”
In this case, explains Franks, the existing 25-by-15-foot pool had a craggy edge of moss rock boulders, plus a spa and firepit faced with a rough Scabos splitface travertine.
“The overall look was rustic and naturalistic,” says Franks, “so we of course wanted the new outdoor kitchen island to match.”
Hence the 14-foot-long outdoor kitchen island with a raised bar, also faced in the Scabos splitface travertine and topped with a Normandy granite countertop. The hardscaping around it is Kool Deck® textured concrete.
“People used to shy away from busy textures in outside patio kitchen plans, but now they’re embracing them,” notes Franks. “They’re increasingly attracted to the beautiful imperfections and irregularities of nature – there’s more of an authenticity and character to it.”
Now, for the high-tech part: A Traeger wood pellet grill. Traeger grills are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to infuse amazing, rich flavor and for their versatility (they can grill, bake, smoke, slow cook, braise and barbecue).
This premier model, the Memphis Pro 304, features 562 square inches of cooking space and a three-in-one cooking system (high-temperature grill, low-and-low smoker and true-convection-oven roasting and baking). It also has an intuitive Intelligent Temperature Control (see the display panel to the left of the grill) that can be set for cooking and internal temperature.
A programmable food probe tells you when the internal temperature is reached and drops the grill down to a programmed lower temperature to keep the food warm till serving.
The dual-fan convection system, with reliable metal blades, circulates heat evenly for tender, juicy results. Double-walled and sealed construction of 304 stainless steel allows for optimum heat retention and consistent temperatures in all weather conditions. A direct-flame “flavorizer” insert delivers the added flavor of a seared finish.
Outdoor Homescapes also added a mount sink with a custom oil-rubbed bronze faucet by Moen and the following RCS stainless steel accessories: a pull-out trash door, a countertop trash chute, dual horizontal grill utensil drawers and a swing-out storage door.
“At first, you’d think all this technology and the smooth, modern stainless steel would fight with the rustic look of the rough-faced stone in outdoor patio kitchen plans,” says Franks. “But it actually provides some visual rest from all the rugged textures and busyness.”
Serving a similar function is the smooth, polished Scabos travertine tile used for the pool coping and firepit ledge.
“It’s a perfect environment for the client to entertain business associates,” says Franks. “He’s very happy with the old-meets-new approach, and so are we.”
More patio kitchen plans can be found at Outdoor Homescapes of Houston’s website, at www.outdoorhomescapes.com

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home.
This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality
The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout.
The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan.
This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets.
Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams.
The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools.
Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking.
To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter.
The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination.
The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close.
Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry.
The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door.
Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room.
Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look.
The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses!
Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space.
This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made.
If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

Morpurgo Architects was retained by a Fortune 100 CEO and his wife, owners of this grand brick manor house, to renovate the lower level of their home and increase the existing area for a spa and entertainment. Above this new space, we created an expansive deck, accessible from the kitchen and the first floor living areas.
Our firm surmounted numerous challenges presented by the significant height of the deck and our clients’ desire for immediacy to the pond below. We mitigated and resolved the height differences by designing a system of stairs and platforms that provide overlooks to the landscape, thereby facilitating transitions among the many levels.
Between the first floor and the lower level, we have constructed a mezzanine that is situated between two levels of stairs. This spacious landing prompts one to pause and view the family room through a wood-arched ceiling, with flanking wood display cases, before entering this well-appointed social area that contains the family room with a fireplace, pub, billiard room and solarium. A separate apartment, full-service cabana with kitchen and two bathrooms, sauna and a gym were also developed to satisfy the owner’s program.
Morpurgo Architects is known for its fastidious detailing, exemplified in this magnificent home by walnut-blasted oak paneling and built-ins that the firm designed to enhance the family’s entertainment space.

This pool just screams outdoor fun! Pool Fountains are such a valuable asset, they not only look cool but they also add some benefits. Pool Fountains cool the water through aeration. When the pool water is sprayed into the air, oxygen is introduced to all the tiny droplets. This cools them down. When they fall back into the pool, they bring that cooler temperature with them. Run a fountain long enough, and you can see a drop in temperature from 2 to 4 degrees. You know pool circulation is essential to distributing water chemicals, moving pool water through the filtration system, and preventing yucky things from growing in stagnant water. You may already suspect this from personal experience. But it’s documented that listening to water sounds has a stress-reducing effect for many people. Swimming is already one way to lower stress. Add a fountain to your pool, and increase that benefit even more. Pool fountains create some of that fun, and can possibly even keep a rainbow around for a little longer than one splash could. They’re just pretty. Pool fountains you install may not be masterpiece sculptures, but a fanned water spray is just as beautiful to watch.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

In this project, our clients purchased an existing restaurant fraught with stormwater management issues on the property. Runoff from an adjacent state highway and parking lot regularly flooded the kitchen. Additionally, a man-made pond on the property had become a problematic breeding ground for mosquitos that virtually prohibited outdoor dining during the summer. Both challenges restricted the restaurant from operating at its fullest potential. Our design/build team’s goals were to address the water runoff and mosquito issues using environmentally and financially sustainable practices. Lowering the grades around the building and parking, we were able to direct the runoff into a dry streambed enriched with water-worn cobbles and river stones and planted banks. We addressed the mosquito problem by increasing the pond’s depth, adding an aeration system, and planting the banks with wildflowers. By raising the outdoor dining, guests now overlook the pond and pleasing landscape. Natural breezes at this higher level help alleviate mosquitosl.

Morpurgo Architects was retained by a Fortune 100 CEO and his wife, owners of this grand brick manor house, to renovate the lower level of their home and increase the existing area for a spa and entertainment. Above this new space, we created an expansive deck, accessible from the kitchen and the first floor living areas.
Our firm surmounted numerous challenges presented by the significant height of the deck and our clients’ desire for immediacy to the pond below. We mitigated and resolved the height differences by designing a system of stairs and platforms that provide overlooks to the landscape, thereby facilitating transitions among the many levels.
Between the first floor and the lower level, we have constructed a mezzanine that is situated between two levels of stairs. This spacious landing prompts one to pause and view the family room through a wood-arched ceiling, with flanking wood display cases, before entering this well-appointed social area that contains the family room with a fireplace, pub, billiard room and solarium. A separate apartment, full-service cabana with kitchen and two bathrooms, sauna and a gym were also developed to satisfy the owner’s program.
Morpurgo Architects is known for its fastidious detailing, exemplified in this magnificent home by walnut-blasted oak paneling and built-ins that the firm designed to enhance the family’s entertainment space.

In this project, our clients purchased an existing restaurant fraught with stormwater management issues on the property. Runoff from an adjacent state highway and parking lot regularly flooded the kitchen. Additionally, a man-made pond on the property had become a problematic breeding ground for mosquitos that virtually prohibited outdoor dining during the summer. Both challenges restricted the restaurant from operating at its fullest potential. Our design/build team’s goals were to address the water runoff and mosquito issues using environmentally and financially sustainable practices. Lowering the grades around the building and parking, we were able to direct the runoff into a dry streambed enriched with water-worn cobbles and river stones and planted banks. We addressed the mosquito problem by increasing the pond’s depth, adding an aeration system, and planting the banks with wildflowers. By raising the outdoor dining, guests now overlook the pond and pleasing landscape. Natural breezes at this higher level help alleviate mosquitosl.

This pool just screams outdoor fun! Pool Fountains are such a valuable asset, they not only look cool but they also add some benefits. Pool Fountains cool the water through aeration. When the pool water is sprayed into the air, oxygen is introduced to all the tiny droplets. This cools them down. When they fall back into the pool, they bring that cooler temperature with them. Run a fountain long enough, and you can see a drop in temperature from 2 to 4 degrees. You know pool circulation is essential to distributing water chemicals, moving pool water through the filtration system, and preventing yucky things from growing in stagnant water. You may already suspect this from personal experience. But it’s documented that listening to water sounds has a stress-reducing effect for many people. Swimming is already one way to lower stress. Add a fountain to your pool, and increase that benefit even more. Pool fountains create some of that fun, and can possibly even keep a rainbow around for a little longer than one splash could. They’re just pretty. Pool fountains you install may not be masterpiece sculptures, but a fanned water spray is just as beautiful to watch.

In this project, our clients purchased an existing restaurant fraught with stormwater management issues on the property. Runoff from an adjacent state highway and parking lot regularly flooded the kitchen. Additionally, a man-made pond on the property had become a problematic breeding ground for mosquitos that virtually prohibited outdoor dining during the summer. Both challenges restricted the restaurant from operating at its fullest potential. Our design/build team’s goals were to address the water runoff and mosquito issues using environmentally and financially sustainable practices. Lowering the grades around the building and parking, we were able to direct the runoff into a dry streambed enriched with water-worn cobbles and river stones and planted banks. We addressed the mosquito problem by increasing the pond’s depth, adding an aeration system, and planting the banks with wildflowers. By raising the outdoor dining, guests now overlook the pond and pleasing landscape. Natural breezes at this higher level help alleviate mosquitosl.

Morpurgo Architects was retained by a Fortune 100 CEO and his wife, owners of this grand brick manor house, to renovate the lower level of their home and increase the existing area for a spa and entertainment. Above this new space, we created an expansive deck, accessible from the kitchen and the first floor living areas.
Our firm surmounted numerous challenges presented by the significant height of the deck and our clients’ desire for immediacy to the pond below. We mitigated and resolved the height differences by designing a system of stairs and platforms that provide overlooks to the landscape, thereby facilitating transitions among the many levels.
Between the first floor and the lower level, we have constructed a mezzanine that is situated between two levels of stairs. This spacious landing prompts one to pause and view the family room through a wood-arched ceiling, with flanking wood display cases, before entering this well-appointed social area that contains the family room with a fireplace, pub, billiard room and solarium. A separate apartment, full-service cabana with kitchen and two bathrooms, sauna and a gym were also developed to satisfy the owner’s program.
Morpurgo Architects is known for its fastidious detailing, exemplified in this magnificent home by walnut-blasted oak paneling and built-ins that the firm designed to enhance the family’s entertainment space.
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