Old Lyme, CT. Prime property for good reason, beach homes beckon you outside by appealing to the senses. The lulling sounds of rolling waves, the beauty of a seemingly eternal body of water, the salty smell of evening breezes, and the tickle of changing terrain underfoot all make waterside setups particularly peaceful. So with sand and sea bumping up to their backyard, these Connecticut homeowners were ready to max out their space for maximum outdoor living. To take on the transformation, they hired designer Michael Gotowala, president of Preferred Properties Landscaping & Masonry. Multiple terraces of stone and granite patios feature a breakfast nook, seating under a sail-inspired cloth shade, fire pit, and hot tub installed in stone. The outdoor kitchen’s design is especially distinct for two reasons: One, this section is built out and fully finished with stone and granite, and two, the space is sunken into the landscape to block the wind and protect from the elements. Outfitted with all the appliances needed for gourmet grilling in the great outdoors, additional amenities such as the gas fireplace for warmth and ambiance as well as a granite surround for seating complete this Connecticut cookery for optimum outdoor living. For more Outdoor kitchen ideas go to THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by PREFERRED PROPERTIES.. www.OUTDOORKITCHENDESIGNER.com Are you satisfied with your outdoor beach side space? If not reconsider your design. You too can feel fabulous about living beyond the walls of your home. It begins with a fabulous design and ends with meticulous workmanship. CALL 1-855- GET OUTDOORS to get started today

This project was a portion of a larger remodeling of a classic mid-century deck house in Weston, MA. The primary areas of focus for the landscape were an interior courtyard and rear terrace, both of which were overgrown and unused. In order to keep within budget limitations, our strategy consisted largely of editing the existing plants on site and reusing the best ones, maintaining existing groupings where appropriate. In keeping with the arts and crafts style of the home with its exposed beams and attention to detail, we implemented a simpler palette of rich materials with well-articulated detailing for a more pared-down contemporary aesthetic. Scott Carman

concrete looking luxury tile which looks like wallpapers. Perfect for urban style condo or loft or luxury house.
Bathroom - modern bathroom idea in Los Angeles

The Control/Shift House is perched on the high side of the site which takes advantage of the view to the southeast. A gradual descending path navigates the change in terrain from the street to the entry of the house. A series of low retaining walls/planter beds gather and release the earth upon the descent resulting in a fairly flat level for the house to sit on the top one third of the site. The entry axis is aligned with the celebrated stair volume and then re-centers on the actual entry axis once you approach the forecourt of the house. The initial desire was for an “H” scheme house with common entertaining spaces bridging the gap between the more private spaces. After an investigation considering the site, program, and view, a key move was made: unfold the east wing of the “H” scheme to open all rooms to the southeast view resulting in a “T” scheme. The new derivation allows for both a swim pool which is on axis with the entry and main gathering space and a lap pool which occurs on the cross axis extending along the lengthy edge of the master suite, providing direct access for morning exercise and a view of the water throughout the day. The Control/Shift House was derived from a clever way of following the “rules.” Strict HOA guidelines required very specific exterior massing restrictions which limits the lengths of unbroken elevations and promotes varying sizes of masses. The solution most often used in this neighborhood is one of addition - an aggregation of masses and program randomly attached to the inner core of the house which often results in a parasitic plan. The approach taken with the Control/Shift House was to push and pull program/massing to delineate and define the layout of the house. Massing is intentional and reiterated by the careful selection of materiality that tracks through the house. Voids and relief in the plan are a natural result of this method and allow for light and air to circulate throughout every space of the house, even into the most inner core. Photography: Charles Davis Smith

Contrasting textures: The entry court brick wall provides a balanced separation between the arrival courtyard and meadow.
Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional partial sun backyard concrete paver garden path in New York for spring.

This project is full of unique features, and as always lots of variation in textures and materials. The homeowners had just finished complety renovating the inside of this home, and were ready to tackle the outside environment surrounding it. Now the outside is just as gorgeous as the inside!!! We have a two tiered IPE (Brazillian Walnut) deck with a covered pergola over half of the space. Large 10"x10" cedar post & large cedar beams make this not just any........ "PERGOLA". Fans, TV, and lighting make this an area to enjoy all year long. The lower deck features a linear firepit stacked with dual 8' gas burners. Since its an elevated deck railing is important for saftey of their guests, but who wants to obstruct the view of those beautiful sunsets over the pond, so we decided to use custom cable railing to finish the deck space. We then hardscaped along the front of the home layering it into the natural terrain of the property. As you enter the front entrance there is a wonderful piece of artwork that is highlighted in hte space. As if that is not enough we then transformed the north end of the home with a private patio space with "ANOTHER" one of a kind pergola. It is so hard to put all this work into perspective in just photos, but we tried our best. We hope you enjoy the awsome transformation!!! Another reason to ask Fiano Landscapes to transform your world!!!

The Control/Shift House is perched on the high side of the site which takes advantage of the view to the southeast. A gradual descending path navigates the change in terrain from the street to the entry of the house. A series of low retaining walls/planter beds gather and release the earth upon the descent resulting in a fairly flat level for the house to sit on the top one third of the site. The entry axis is aligned with the celebrated stair volume and then re-centers on the actual entry axis once you approach the forecourt of the house. The initial desire was for an “H” scheme house with common entertaining spaces bridging the gap between the more private spaces. After an investigation considering the site, program, and view, a key move was made: unfold the east wing of the “H” scheme to open all rooms to the southeast view resulting in a “T” scheme. The new derivation allows for both a swim pool which is on axis with the entry and main gathering space and a lap pool which occurs on the cross axis extending along the lengthy edge of the master suite, providing direct access for morning exercise and a view of the water throughout the day. The Control/Shift House was derived from a clever way of following the “rules.” Strict HOA guidelines required very specific exterior massing restrictions which limits the lengths of unbroken elevations and promotes varying sizes of masses. The solution most often used in this neighborhood is one of addition - an aggregation of masses and program randomly attached to the inner core of the house which often results in a parasitic plan. The approach taken with the Control/Shift House was to push and pull program/massing to delineate and define the layout of the house. Massing is intentional and reiterated by the careful selection of materiality that tracks through the house. Voids and relief in the plan are a natural result of this method and allow for light and air to circulate throughout every space of the house, even into the most inner core. Photography: Charles Davis Smith

This project is full of unique features, and as always lots of variation in textures and materials. The homeowners had just finished complety renovating the inside of this home, and were ready to tackle the outside environment surrounding it. Now the outside is just as gorgeous as the inside!!! We have a two tiered IPE (Brazillian Walnut) deck with a covered pergola over half of the space. Large 10"x10" cedar post & large cedar beams make this not just any........ "PERGOLA". Fans, TV, and lighting make this an area to enjoy all year long. The lower deck features a linear firepit stacked with dual 8' gas burners. Since its an elevated deck railing is important for saftey of their guests, but who wants to obstruct the view of those beautiful sunsets over the pond, so we decided to use custom cable railing to finish the deck space. We then hardscaped along the front of the home layering it into the natural terrain of the property. As you enter the front entrance there is a wonderful piece of artwork that is highlighted in hte space. As if that is not enough we then transformed the north end of the home with a private patio space with "ANOTHER" one of a kind pergola. It is so hard to put all this work into perspective in just photos, but we tried our best. We hope you enjoy the awsome transformation!!! Another reason to ask Fiano Landscapes to transform your world!!!

Experience the serenity of your own moss retreat resplendent with various moss species, ferns, moss-as-art stumps and forest driftwood. Stroll along your mossy path barefoot to experience the magic. Photo by Annie Martin, www.mountainmoss.com

Location: Cohasset, MA, United States This elegant property has gorgeous views of the harbor, with sweeping stone walls that create a terraced effect. Since the house was a warm beige, I felt a bold red would really bring it to life, mixed with burgundy foliage and big, dramatic grasses. Hay Scented Fern, Solomon's Seal and Hellebore create a dense, naturalistic ground cover along this slope at the bottom on a ledge cliff.

Inspiration for a contemporary landscaping in Boston.

This project is full of unique features, and as always lots of variation in textures and materials. The homeowners had just finished complety renovating the inside of this home, and were ready to tackle the outside environment surrounding it. Now the outside is just as gorgeous as the inside!!! We have a two tiered IPE (Brazillian Walnut) deck with a covered pergola over half of the space. Large 10"x10" cedar post & large cedar beams make this not just any........ "PERGOLA". Fans, TV, and lighting make this an area to enjoy all year long. The lower deck features a linear firepit stacked with dual 8' gas burners. Since its an elevated deck railing is important for saftey of their guests, but who wants to obstruct the view of those beautiful sunsets over the pond, so we decided to use custom cable railing to finish the deck space. We then hardscaped along the front of the home layering it into the natural terrain of the property. As you enter the front entrance there is a wonderful piece of artwork that is highlighted in hte space. As if that is not enough we then transformed the north end of the home with a private patio space with "ANOTHER" one of a kind pergola. It is so hard to put all this work into perspective in just photos, but we tried our best. We hope you enjoy the awsome transformation!!! Another reason to ask Fiano Landscapes to transform your world!!!

This landscape retrofit integrated existing cobble walls with new timber stair case.

The star of the back yard is Western Redbud / Cercis occidentalis. It flowers briefly at the end of winter; then heart-shaped leaves appear and turn a soft yellow fall color.

This is an example of a tropical landscaping in Charleston.

This project is full of unique features, and as always lots of variation in textures and materials. The homeowners had just finished complety renovating the inside of this home, and were ready to tackle the outside environment surrounding it. Now the outside is just as gorgeous as the inside!!! We have a two tiered IPE (Brazillian Walnut) deck with a covered pergola over half of the space. Large 10"x10" cedar post & large cedar beams make this not just any........ "PERGOLA". Fans, TV, and lighting make this an area to enjoy all year long. The lower deck features a linear firepit stacked with dual 8' gas burners. Since its an elevated deck railing is important for saftey of their guests, but who wants to obstruct the view of those beautiful sunsets over the pond, so we decided to use custom cable railing to finish the deck space. We then hardscaped along the front of the home layering it into the natural terrain of the property. As you enter the front entrance there is a wonderful piece of artwork that is highlighted in hte space. As if that is not enough we then transformed the north end of the home with a private patio space with "ANOTHER" one of a kind pergola. It is so hard to put all this work into perspective in just photos, but we tried our best. We hope you enjoy the awsome transformation!!! Another reason to ask Fiano Landscapes to transform your world!!!

Dry laid retaining wall made up of a mix of both granite and natural fieldstone supported by interior mortar. Perennial plantings supported by a custom stained farm style fence providing a privacy screen for this residents side yard.

Now mow fescue lawn, with sawn cut flagstone stepping stones and rock edging for planting beds. Evergreen planting edges the yard and stone front walls. The front yard has become a perfect practicing range for disc golf.

Everywhere we look, we’re surrounded by structures and designs that captivate and draw us in, allowing us to truly appreciate the art of modern architecture. I was very excited to receive a couple of beautiful installation images of our H Series vent-free gas fireplace from Matt Brazeau of Stove King, which operates in Putnam, CT, and Medford, MA. The images show a stunning living room that features large sliding doors and an open layout to the kitchen. What caught my eye was the detailed woodwork and the choice of wall color – I know “dark and moody” is trending but seeing it in a Boston multi-family and done so well, I was captivated and wanted to learn more. Developer Marc Savatsky, owner of Choose Boston, LLC, a multi-function development and real estate company, was behind this project. Marc’s company works throughout Boston and surrounding suburbs to redevelop and market multi-unit properties. Situated in Dorchester’s Neponset section, the property comprises four townhomes styled in a classic federalist design, paying homage to the rich history of the area. Remarkably, all units were spoken for during construction, which reflects a perfect alignment with what buyers are looking for, which is not common at all. Collaborating with Architects and Partners Working with architect Peter Vanko of Vanko Studio and Marc’s spouse and partner, Jessie Franco, the group designed this inviting and sought after living space. Warm and welcoming, with an open and inviting feel, unique building materials, lots of natural light and outdoor living spaces were on the list for what they felt would provide the right character for this property. Elements such as fluted wood were chosen to add visual interest, while the darker palette around the fireplace contributed to the overall aesthetic appeal. The project faced significant challenges with the sloping terrain because Marc had not expected the need for so many retaining walls. But, once they were designed and put in, the challenge turned to charm and provided the landscaping with additional character. Overcoming Development Challenges Addressing the Sloping Land Besides the sloping terrain, another major challenge was adding gas fireplaces into each unit. Due to building constraints preventing traditional venting, the fireplaces were as tricky as the retaining walls. It was important to Marc and Jessie to include fireplaces in these units. They felt that fireplaces provide a beautiful focal point and with the cold months Boston experiences, they would make the units so much more welcoming. After consulting with Matt Brazeau, the choice became clear: the European Home H Series Vent-Free Natural Gas Fireplace. Vent free gas fireplaces are safe alternatives to direct vent fireplaces. They solve the challenge of where to run the venting and provide the living space with a real flame, heat efficiency (99%) and with the H Series, a very clean, European design. The H Series installs similarly to a gas stove – connected to gas and built with an outer body to insulate it from combustibles. It is an easy choice when gas is the preferred type of fuel and venting is difficult or the budget does not allow for the additional space, time, and cost of venting. Vent-free gas fireplaces have been allowed in Massachusetts for 20 years (since 2004) due to their safety, efficiency and practicality. Marc Savatsky: The Developer’s Background From New Jersey to Boston: A Passion for Building Marc grew up in New Jersey and received a construction management degree from Purdue. As the chair of the housing committee on Mayor Walsh’s young advisory council, his love for Boston and building came together. Immersed in the dynamic environment of Boston, he discovered his passion for the city and appreciation of the architectural legacy. Suffolk Construction provided Marc with his formative, early years in the construction business. Over time he honed his skill and knowledge of the construction industry. Having Marc as a developer who values the essence of local history and architecture adds a distinctive touch to his endeavors. It reflects not only a commitment to excellence in construction but also a dedication to harmonizing modern development with the rich tapestry of Boston’s past.