Saturday July 18, 3:30 to 6:00pm | Lakeville Native Wildflower Meadow and Woodland Garden Larry Weaner of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates In the area surrounding Lake Wononskopomuc in northwest Connecticut, two landscapes, each distinct yet inspired by the region’s natural environment, offer insight into the design of native landscapes and the role of the landscape architect in determining the trajectory of site evolution. Once a field of barren turf located along the lake’s northern shoreline, the first site has been transformed into a mature, native meadow, with spectacular diversity and full floral display. The second site, a more recent woodland planting on the lake’s eastern shoreline, supports a landscape in an earlier stage of evolution. While evidence of establishment techniques remain visible, this season marks a distinct moment in the landscape’s advance toward full maturity. Despite their modest size, these landscapes provide a momentous occasion to better understand designed, native landscapes and their growth and evolution. Born in the mind of the designer and bearing his thumbprint, these native landscapes spring from the dance between humans and the patterns and processes of nature. Photos courtesy of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Photography by: Caryn B. Davis This project included a two-story addition with a kitchen/dining area on the first floor and bedroom/bathroom on the second floor. The house is located on a gently sloping site surrounded by woods and meadows. The kitchen features grey lower cabinetry and white upper cabinetry with a subtle, rounded board and batten backsplash. The dining area features a large picture window flanked by double hungs that look out over the meadow. The upstairs bathroom shares a tub/shower with another bathroom in Jack-n-Jill fashion. Phase II will include first and second floor renovations and an expansive rear deck and stone terrace. John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

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.

Elevate Your Pool Experience with Babcock Custom Pools’ Portfolio Pool Equipment Introduction When it comes to creating the ultimate backyard oasis, Babcock Custom Pools is the name to trust. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Babcock Custom Pools brings together cutting-edge technology, superior craftsmanship, and stunning design to transform your dream pool into a reality. In this article, we will explore the remarkable portfolio pool equipment offered by Babcock Custom Pools, highlighting their expertise in delivering straight lines with plumbing precision and a flawless compilation of pool plumbing, all aimed at ensuring your pool not only functions seamlessly but also looks perfect. Excellence at Every Step At Babcock Custom Pools, excellence is the cornerstone of their work. From the initial design consultation to the final installation, their team of skilled professionals leaves no stone unturned in delivering exceptional results. Every pool project undertaken by Babcock Custom Pools is treated as a work of art, crafted with attention to detail and a commitment to surpassing customer expectations. Straight Lines with Plumbing Precision One distinguishing feature of Babcock Custom Pools’ portfolio pool equipment is their unwavering dedication to achieving straight lines with plumbing precision. Proper plumbing is vital for a well-functioning pool, and Babcock Custom Pools understands this importance. They employ experienced technicians who meticulously plan and execute every plumbing aspect, ensuring that your pool’s plumbing system is not only efficient but also aesthetically pleasing. Babcock Custom Pools takes pride in their ability to seamlessly integrate the plumbing elements into the pool’s design, creating a visually appealing and functional masterpiece. By utilizing the latest technology and employing industry best practices, they guarantee that your pool’s plumbing will not only withstand the test of time but also provide optimal performance. A Flawless Compilation of Pool Plumbing The compilation of pool plumbing is an intricate process that requires expertise and finesse. Babcock Custom Pools excels in this area, showcasing their mastery by delivering flawless pool plumbing systems. From the pump and filter setup to the water circulation and drainage, every component is skillfully installed and interconnected, creating a cohesive and efficient plumbing network. By employing advanced techniques and using high-quality materials, Babcock Custom Pools ensures that your pool’s plumbing operates smoothly, minimizing the risk of leaks, blockages, or other issues that can disrupt your pool experience. Their team’s attention to detail and commitment to perfection guarantees that your pool’s plumbing will be a seamless part of the overall design, enhancing the beauty and functionality of your pool. Conclusion When it comes to creating a remarkable pool experience, Babcock Custom Pools stands head and shoulders above the competition. Their portfolio pool equipment exemplifies excellence, with a particular focus on achieving straight lines with plumbing precision and delivering a flawless compilation of pool plumbing. By entrusting Babcock Custom Pools with your pool project, you can rest assured that your pool will not only be a stunning visual centerpiece but also a meticulously engineered and reliable oasis for years to come. Contact Babcock Custom Pools today and let their expertise transform your dream pool into a reality.

Photography by: Caryn B. Davis This project included a two-story addition with a kitchen/dining area on the first floor and bedroom/bathroom on the second floor. The house is located on a gently sloping site surrounded by woods and meadows. The kitchen features grey lower cabinetry and white upper cabinetry with a subtle, rounded board and batten backsplash. The dining area features a large picture window flanked by double hungs that look out over the meadow. The upstairs bathroom shares a tub/shower with another bathroom in Jack-n-Jill fashion. Phase II will include first and second floor renovations and an expansive rear deck and stone terrace. John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

When your pipes burst, a toilet overflows, or you notice suspicious dampness, you need more than a plumber—you need an emergency plumber in Atlanta you can trust. Meet Atlantis Plumbing, a family-owned, trusted local company serving the greater Atlanta area with fast, friendly, and reliable plumbing services 24/7. Decades of Experience Rooted in the Community Established over 60 years ago and now with thousands of satisfied customers, Atlantis Plumbing has built a reputation on steady, dependable service. Their licensed professionals bring years of experience to every job, giving you peace of mind when you're dealing with urgent, unexpected plumbing disasters. 24/7 Availability When You Need It Most Emergencies don't wait for business hours—and neither does Atlantis. With around-the-clock service, including live operators ready to take your call, they ensure help is just a phone call away. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a busy weekend, Atlantis is on call and on site fast. Upfront Pricing and Honest Communication A plumbing emergency shouldn't add financial stress. Atlantis offers transparent, upfront pricing so you're never blindsided. Before any work begins, they'll provide a clear estimate—no hidden fees, no surprises. Speed Meets Expertise Emergencies demand swift action—but not at the cost of quality. Atlantis strikes the perfect balance: rapid response paired with the skilled, licensed professionals who understand the complexity of modern plumbing systems. Fully Equipped to Handle Any Crisis From burst water lines to sewer backups and leaking water heaters, Atlantis’s team carries the tools and know-how to address your emergency promptly: • Water leaks: Quick diagnosis and repair, including high water bill analysis. • Clogged drains and sewer issues: Advanced solutions ranging from snaking to hydro-jetting or camera inspection. • Sewer repair & replacement: Trenchless methods available to minimize disruption. • Water heaters: Repair or replacement—gas, electric, or tankless. • Polybutylene pipes: Experts in identifying and replacing this outdated material. • Gas leaks: Safe, professional response (after gas company clearance). Trusted Service with a Personal Touch Emergencies are stressful. Atlantis eases the burden with professional, courteous technicians who get the job done with respect and care for your home. Their approach is old-fashioned in the best way—friendly, honest, and dedicated to customer satisfaction. Multiple local voices have recommended them as the one plumber they’d always call. It's that level of trust that assures homeowners and businesses alike in times of crisis. Comprehensive Coverage Throughout Metro Atlanta Whether you're in Atlanta proper or surrounding areas—like Marietta, Smyrna, Roswell, or Lawrenceville—Atlantis covers it. Their reach spans Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, Dekalb, Cherokee, and more, ensuring emergency plumbing help isn't far when you need it most. Value Beyond the Emergency Atlantis doesn’t just put out fires—they help prevent them. With services like free high water bill analysis and long-term maintenance options, they add value that stretches well beyond the immediate fix. They offer senior and military discounts, plus financing with approved credit—helping ease the financial burden of unavoidable plumbing repairs. Hiring an Emergency Plumber: Why Atlantis Stands Out 1. 24/7 live support—get help when it counts. 2. Licensed, experienced plumbers—quality you can rely on. 3. Transparent pricing—know what you're paying. 4. Quick, efficient responses—fast relief without sacrificing standards. 5. Wide range of services—from leaks to sewers to water heaters. 6. Easy scheduling and flexible payment options—designed for your convenience. Sample Emergency Scenarios & How Atlantis Helps Your Basement Is Flooding at 2 AM A frozen pipe has burst, sending water everywhere. You call Atlantis. Their team answers immediately, dispatches licensed plumbers within the hour, stops the leak, assesses the damage, and begins cleanup and pipe repair—all before breakfast. Sewer Backup During Dinner Party Your main sewer line backs up, and your guests are greeting more than your cooking. Atlantis arrives pronto, uses a camera inspection to pinpoint the blockage, resolves it with hydro-jetting or replacement, and gets everything draining again—without using your yard as a trench. Unexplained Spike in Your Water Bill You notice a huge spike in your bill—but no visible leak. Atlantis sends a tech for a free high water bill analysis, finds a small underground leak, and repairs it promptly—saving you money on unnecessary wastage. Water Heater Fails on a Winter Morning No hot water on a chilly morning? Atlantis arrives, diagnoses the heater issue, and either repairs it or replaces it with a similarly warranted unit—serving gas, electric, or tankless systems with equal confidence. Outdated Polybutylene Pipes Start Failing You suspect your home has older polybutylene piping prone to leaks. Atlantis offers specialized inspection and replacement options, bringing your plumbing system back up to modern safety and reliability standards. Final Thought In crisis situations, you don’t want to waste time or money. Atlantis Plumbing delivers fast, knowledgeable, and compassionate emergency plumbing services across Atlanta. With fair pricing, skilled professionals, and full-service capabilities—from leak detection to sewer repair to water heater replacement—you’re not just hiring a plumber. You’re hiring peace of mind. When plumbing emergencies strike, remember: Atlantis Plumbing is standing by, 24/7, ready to restore order to your home or business.

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Photography by: Caryn B. Davis This project included a two-story addition with a kitchen/dining area on the first floor and bedroom/bathroom on the second floor. The house is located on a gently sloping site surrounded by woods and meadows. The kitchen features grey lower cabinetry and white upper cabinetry with a subtle, rounded board and batten backsplash. The dining area features a large picture window flanked by double hungs that look out over the meadow. The upstairs bathroom shares a tub/shower with another bathroom in Jack-n-Jill fashion. Phase II will include first and second floor renovations and an expansive rear deck and stone terrace. John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

1.Stable performance with advanced PLC and conveying preforms automatically with conveyor. 2.Strong penetrability and good and swift distribution of the heat by letting the bottles rotate by itself and revolute in the rails simultaneously in the infrared preheater. 3.High adjustability to enable the preheater to preheat preforms in shapes by adjusting the light tube and the length of the reflecting board in the preheating area and eternal temperature in the preheater with an automatic thermostatic apparatus. 4.High safeties with security automatic-locking apparatus in each mechanical action,which will make the procedures turn into a state of safety in case of a breakdown in certain procedure. 5.No contamination and low noise with the air cylinder to drive the action instead of the oil pump. 6.Satisfaction with different atmospheric pressure for blowing and mechanical action by dividing the blowing and action into three parts in the air pressure diagram of the machine. 7.Strong clamping force with high pressure and double crank links to lock the mold. 8.Two ways of operating: Automatic and manual. 9.Safe,reliable and unique design of the position of valve to make the air pressure diagram of the machine easier to understand. 10.Low cost,high efficiency,easy operation,easy maintenance,etc. 11.Contamination is avoided for the bottle body. 12.Ideal effect of the chilling with the chilling system for the bottle mould.

"We would definitely look TaylorPro up for future remodeling projects. We would also not hesitate to recommend TaylorPro's services based on our experience with our bathroom remodeling project. Even prior to signing a contract with us, Mr Taylor (Kerry) was very patient with us and generous in sharing information pertaining to remodel options, material choices and general advice. At least one other dedicated 'Remodeler' we contacted thought we were too much of a nuisance and suggested we sign up before he could spend more time with us. Kerry has a very transparent pricing policy, which allows someone unfamiliar with the scope of the work ( us) to understand the cost implications of each step or feature. His style allows complete flexibility in material choice. He also has a roster of 'favored suppliers' who extend sensible pricing to his clients. Kerry also accommodates change requests at reasonable cost, while only requiring sufficient advance notice. Further, he was honest about not having expertise in certain features I wanted implemented - he executed them well anyway. The job was very well planned and executed, with perhaps only one silent day in over 8 weeks of effort. We are very happy with this aspect also. Kerry remained very responsive to any issues or requests through the duration of the project. We of course had set backs and surprises (+$) through the course of this project, but perhaps that is par for course. Finally, a word about his crew: They were all courteous, trustworthy, efficient and pleasant. We were comfortable with their presence at home. " ~ Uma & Sumant I, Clients Photo By: Kerry W. Taylor

Photo by Jody Dole John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

Saturday July 18, 3:30 to 6:00pm | Lakeville Native Wildflower Meadow and Woodland Garden Larry Weaner of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates In the area surrounding Lake Wononskopomuc in northwest Connecticut, two landscapes, each distinct yet inspired by the region’s natural environment, offer insight into the design of native landscapes and the role of the landscape architect in determining the trajectory of site evolution. Once a field of barren turf located along the lake’s northern shoreline, the first site has been transformed into a mature, native meadow, with spectacular diversity and full floral display. The second site, a more recent woodland planting on the lake’s eastern shoreline, supports a landscape in an earlier stage of evolution. While evidence of establishment techniques remain visible, this season marks a distinct moment in the landscape’s advance toward full maturity. Despite their modest size, these landscapes provide a momentous occasion to better understand designed, native landscapes and their growth and evolution. Born in the mind of the designer and bearing his thumbprint, these native landscapes spring from the dance between humans and the patterns and processes of nature. Photos courtesy of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates

Discover our revolutionary line of customizable biophilic home-office furniture WellthyFlex. WellthyFlex is crafted from natural stone and carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic with its tree branch-inspired form. It brings the beauty of nature indoors. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to create a harmonious and soothing environment, allowing you to thrive in your work. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of your surroundings as our furniture's gentle curves and organic textures evoke a sense of calm and balance. Experience the power of biophilia as you tap into the therapeutic qualities of nature, boosting your focus, creativity, and overall well-being. Embrace the future of work with our biophilic home workplace furniture and create a sanctuary that inspires success. Lightweight carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, which would be algae-based in the near future, is used for table structure. With tensile strength at one-quarter the weight of steel, and lighter than aluminum, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic legs are further optimized with generative design algorithms to use less material. Algae-based carbon fiber: https://www.compositesworld.com/articles/technical-university-of-munich-researchers-explore-using-algae-to-make-carbon-fiber

Photo by Jody Dole John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

Transitional kitchen photo in San Francisco

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Example of a mid-sized eclectic brown tile and stone tile powder room design in Other with brown walls and a vessel sink