Search results for "Understanding" in Home Design Ideas

A collection that unites the poetic and unique beauty of stones harnessed by Dekton® technology, as those dreams where we observe and vaguely feel in control but only the deepest part of our mind truly understands. The collection is named in honor of the lavish inspiration of the two worlds conveyed in marbled colors to captivate our eyes and bring to any space a feeling we understand but cannot explain.

The Home
The Knollwood’s exquisite exterior is inspired by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It is a prairie architectural style, containing elements to blend in with the natural surroundings. This custom floorplan was specifically designed with a unique arrangement to allow each room on the main level to experience a Pikes Peak view and abundant sunlight.
A wall of sliding windows in the great room and lower recreation room showcases the panoramic view of the three-acre, treed property to blend indoor with outdoor living. The expansive covered deck offers a built-in grill, fire pit, hot tub deck and ample seating to experience the best of Colorado outdoor living.
The Master retreat includes two fireplaces, a large soaking tub and a spacious, zero-entry glass shower. The closet features a custom shelving system, tall windows and a large bench for putting on shoes or placing suitcases for packing. It also offers direct access to the main-level laundry room.
The heated garage offers generous space for four cars, plus additional space for storage or an excellent workshop. The lower-level includes three bedrooms and four baths, laundry, play area, wine room and large rec room with space for multiple game tables.
The Builder
Our goal, as Alliance Builders, is to build a home with incomparable design and functionality, while creating the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget. As a design/build company, Alliance Builders will help with all aspects of site selection, design, construction and financing. There is no disconnect between the designer and builder. We handle it all! Our team has over 80 years of combined, new home building experience in the Colorado Springs area, and we continue due to our reputation and understanding of our customer’s wants and needs.
Alliance Builders understands the significance of customer care – before, during and after move in. As a small building company, we believe our reputation is extremely important for our future success. We invite you to visit one of our homes and see for yourself the foundation of experience our homes are built upon.
The Interior Design
The vision for The Knollwood, by Alliance Builder’s Interior Designer Jennifer Van Dyke, was to bring the beauty of the natural surroundings indoors. Rich warm woods, organic elements and soft grays are complimented by vibrant pops of color and black in this Frank Lloyd Wright meets mountain contemporary style home.
Drawing inspiration from the classic prairie-style exterior, the interior of the home creates the perfect setting to enjoy the breathtaking Pikes Peak view. The home features massive stone columns, custom wood beams and an exquisite oversized entry door. The home is enhanced with warm, wood cabinets and rich, live-sawn, oak flooring, which compliments the crisp gray wall color perfectly. Quartz waterfall accents, sleek modern light fixtures and custom tile details throughout create a luxurious feel. The beautifully designed spacious floor plan and expansive outdoor living area make this a great space for relaxing at home or entertaining!
Find the right local pro for your project

Photography by Jenn Verrier
Eat-in kitchen - large craftsman u-shaped light wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in DC Metro with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, gray backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island
Eat-in kitchen - large craftsman u-shaped light wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in DC Metro with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, gray backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

We have worked with homeowners that understood home construction, what they wanted, and how to do it. Still most home owners do not understand construction and are surprised at what can be changed and how easy it is. Exterior walls can be extended and the windows and doors can be reused. Second floors can be added. We can help you see the possibilities.
As experienced licensed contractors we understand zoning laws, deed restrictions, blueprint approvals, and inspections. We know materials, suppliers, costs, and scheduling. We make what could be complicated, costly, and with overruns into a comfortable, quick, and economical experience.

Two Bathroom Remodels in Queen Anne
We can handle all small and big projects. Whether you want to consider replacing the shower in your master bath, guest bath, or common bath, we have the resources and manpower to do the job. Not only will your shower area look more advanced and modern, but we will also make sure that your new space is built to last, and we can design it with your budget in mind.
Our team of highly trained specialists understands the importance of delivering a professional and quality service that meets your specific needs and will help you create a space that's functional, soothing, and beautiful.
Our personal approach to every client allows us to understand their requirements fully, guaranteeing a result that exceeds expectations.
Levite Construction Co
• A family-owned business
• Customer satisfaction guaranteed
• Licensed, Bonded and Insured
Contact us for a free consultation today!
info@leviteconstruction.com
Call 425-998-8958 and for a free consultation today!
#leviteconstruction #constructioncompanyinseattle #bathroomdesign #kitchendesign #kitchen #bathroom #kitchenremodeling #bathroomremodeling #roofing #decksandfencess #garageconversion #basementremodeling #landscaping #seattlehome #seattlebusiness #remodeling #homeproject #seattlehomeowner #seattlecontractor #homerenovation #homeaddition

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill
This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life.
Understanding Their Needs:
From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved.
Addressing Their Concerns:
We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises.
Our Personalized Solutions:
We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires:
● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience.
● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine.
● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience.
● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating
countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives.
● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere.
Navigating the Challenges Together:
Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions
and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process.
The Joy of Transformation:
The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience.
A Space to Cherish:
The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together.
Memorable Moments and Hiccups:
● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

While building her second home in wine country, Tineke had a revelation. She recognized her unique ability to understand design concepts and transform them into creative living solutions that embody personality and lifestyle. With this understanding, Tineke founded Artistic Designs for Living (ADL) and continues to challenge the norms of the industry today. Start your Tineke Triggs makeover here http://www.decorist.com/designers/31043/tineke-triggs/

This country estate was inspired by the stone cottages dotting the beautiful English Cotswolds. With a large parcel of land, the design of the house was stretched along the east – west axis to maximize the natural light and views of the serene setting. Main spaces were created with offsets to allow multiple walls of windows and combining this effect, tall ceilings with floor to ceiling windows allow the natural light to be dispersed throughout the house.
After many discussions with our clients, we were able to understand the living patterns, likes and dislikes of the family. With this understanding, the design was articulated to best accommodate their lifestyle in a beautiful and uplifting manner.

This home, located in Millis, MA, had originally had 5-year old Certainteed Weatherboard fiber cement installed that was improperly installed by the builder and had cracks and rot already setting in. This homeowner heard about Everlast Composite Siding and decided to reach out to us because the idea of having a low maintenance siding appealed to her.
Understandably, this Millis homeowner did every bit of her homework to ensure she found the right product and the right company to replace her failing siding.
As the most experienced composite installer in New England and installing Everlast for close to a decade we’ve perfected the installation and understand what procedures are necessary to ensure the longevity of the product.
We loved restoring this homeowners confidence and restoring their love for their home again. We did so by installing Everlast Composite Siding in the 7” exposure of Sand Dune and a new Provia Entry Door with Sidelites.

The Beaumaris Kitchen Design project is a stunning example of our commitment to creating beautiful, functional, and personalized spaces for our clients. From the custom shaker door profile to the brushed golden brass finish of the Belwith Keeler Brownstone Cabinet knobs and pulls, every detail was carefully chosen to create a cohesive and elegant space.
We understand that lighting is an important aspect of any space, and we took great care in selecting the mini lantern pendant light fixtures in brass finish for the kitchen and the Kate Spade Sawyer Pendant dining room fixture to add a touch of glamour and sophistication. We understand that lighting is an important aspect of any space, and we took great care in selecting the mini lantern pendant light fixtures in brass finish for the kitchen and the Kate Spade Sawyer Pendant dining room fixture to add a touch of glamour and sophistication.
We take pride in our ability to create stunning and functional kitchen and dining designs that meet the unique needs of our clients. At every step of the Beaumaris Kitchen Design project, our team of expert designers and craftsmen paid attention to every detail, from the custom glass door style for display to the built-in microwave and marble backsplash in a herringbone pattern.

KC Architects, led by licensed architect Katarzyna Cimoch, provides exceptional residential architectural services throughout Chicago and surrounding communities. As a Polish architect Chicago residents trust, we specialize in custom home design, additions, renovations, and new construction projects. Our comprehensive approach includes initial consultation, design development, permitting assistance, and construction supervision. We understand Chicago's unique architectural landscape and building requirements, ensuring every project meets both aesthetic and regulatory standards. Our team combines European design sensibilities with local expertise to create spaces that reflect your lifestyle and preferences. From modern additions to historic renovations, we handle projects of all scales with meticulous attention to detail. As an experienced Polish architect Chicago homeowners recommend, Katarzyna brings bilingual communication and cultural understanding to every project. We pride ourselves on transparent communication, realistic timelines, and innovative solutions that maximize your property's potential while respecting your budget.
FAQs:
1. What architectural services do you provide? We offer residential design, additions, renovations, and new construction.
2. Are you licensed in Illinois? Yes, Katarzyna Cimoch is licensed in both Illinois and Florida.
3. Do you handle permits? Yes, we assist with all permitting and approval processes.
4. What's your design process? We follow a five-step process from consultation to final walkthrough.
5. Do you supervise construction? Yes, we provide construction supervision services.
6. What areas do you serve? We serve Chicago and surrounding communities.
7. Do you work on historic homes? Yes, we have experience with historic renovations.
8. What's included in consultation? Initial consultation covers project scope, timeline, and budget discussion.
9. Do you provide 3D renderings? Yes, we create detailed visualizations during design development.
10. How long does design take? Timeline varies by project complexity and scope.

Interior design: ZWADA home - Don Zwarych and Kyo Sada
Photography: Kyo Sada
Example of a small trendy open concept medium tone wood floor living room design in Vancouver with white walls
Example of a small trendy open concept medium tone wood floor living room design in Vancouver with white walls

This country estate was inspired by the stone cottages dotting the beautiful English Cotswolds. With a large parcel of land, the design of the house was stretched along the east – west axis to maximize the natural light and views of the serene setting. Main spaces were created with offsets to allow multiple walls of windows and combining this effect, tall ceilings with floor to ceiling windows allow the natural light to be dispersed throughout the house.
After many discussions with our clients, we were able to understand the living patterns, likes and dislikes of the family. With this understanding, the design was articulated to best accommodate their lifestyle in a beautiful and uplifting manner.

In the trails located in the heart of Westlake Village, a homeowner embarked on a transformative journey. Feeling the urge to expand, refresh, and breathe new life into their space, they envisioned more than just additional square footage; they dreamed of a home capable of hosting their large family and grandchildren, becoming the backdrop for countless cherished memories.
Understanding our client’s vision, our team set out to create an open, inviting space bathed in natural light. We aimed to seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living while radiating warmth and brightness throughout the home. This commitment to our client’s dream guided us as we transformed every corner of the house.
The transformation began with a significant addition to the back of the house. We knocked down walls, relocated the stairs, and reconfigured the floorplan to enhance flow and functionality. To further enhance the connection with the outdoors, we replaced traditional French doors with a stunning LaCantina door. This change not only expanded the view but also invited the beauty of the outdoors into the heart of the home.
Turning our attention to the dated red brick that adorned the home’s facade, we applied a mortar overlay with creativity and skill. This transformed the tired brick into a fresh, unique feature that set the tone for the entire remodel. Our dedication to detail extended to every inch of the home, with custom finishes and upgrades in the kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces. Each detail was carefully chosen and executed to reflect our client’s taste and elevate their living experience.
Understanding our client’s desires for outdoor gatherings, we added two patios—one roofed and one louvered—complete with an outdoor fireplace, lounging, and dining areas. We also built a new pool and added an outdoor BBQ island, creating inviting retreats perfect for family gatherings, relaxation, and making new memories.
As the project neared completion, our client’s dream home stood transformed—a bright, open sanctuary perfectly tailored to their family’s needs and desires. While we provided the expertise, guidance, and craftsmanship, it was our client’s vision, passion, and trust that made it all possible.
In the end, this project was about more than just remodeling a house; it was about crafting a home where love, laughter, and memories could flourish for years to come.
Photographer: Andrew Orozco

Custom Curved Wooden Slides by Top Tread Stairways ~
Transform Your Home Into Something Extraordinary
Custom Curved Wooden Slides
When was the Last Time Someone Walked Into Your Home and Their Jaw Literally Dropped?
Picture this: Your guests arrive for dinner. They step into your foyer, and suddenly—silence. Wide eyes. A moment of pure disbelief. Then, inevitably, the question: “Is that really what I think it is?”
Welcome to the world of custom curved wooden slides, where Top Tread Stairways turns childhood dreams into sophisticated architectural statements.
The Secret is Out
For years, Clyde Martin and his team at Top Tread Stairways in Sierra Vista, Arizona, have been quietly building something extraordinary. While most stair companies focus on traditional projects, TopTread Stairways has been perfecting the art of custom hardwood slides—creating installations so remarkable that we joke about renaming the business “Chutes and Ladders.”
The truth? These aren’t just slides. They’re conversation pieces. Works of functional art. The kind of architectural element that sets your home apart from every other one on the planet.
And we build so many of them that we’ve shipped custom slides all over North America and beyond.
Four Ways to Make Your Home Unforgettable
Every slide project we undertake is unique, but they generally fall into four categories:
1. Curved Stair-Slide Combinations – The ultimate space-efficient solution, where stairs and slide spiral together in a stunning combination of form and function.
2. Curved Slides Separate from Stairways – For those who want the drama of a standalone curved slide that makes its own architectural statement.
3. Straight Stair-Slide Combinations – Perfect for modern, linear spaces where clean lines meet playful innovation.
4. Straight Slides Separate from Stairways – Sometimes simplicity creates the most powerful impact.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Some slides feature flat seat areas with vertical sides. Others embrace a barrel shape for enhanced comfort. We’ve built slides wide enough for several people to descend shoulder-to-shoulder, laughing all the way down. And we’ve crafted intimate slides designed for solo adventures, regardless of age or size.
Our clients? They absolutely love them.
Stories That Will Make You Rethink What’s Possible
Take the 11,000-square-foot home in Beverly Hills, overlooking the famous Sunset Strip. In one child’s bedroom, we installed a 12-foot curved slide crafted from white oak. Understated location, extraordinary feature.
Or consider the 35-foot-high round tower room in an 8,500-square-foot custom home bordering the Sacramento River in Northern California. This project has become our most famous installation—a stunning 33-foot curved stair-slide combination built entirely from solid black walnut, featuring 445 layers of cross-laminated hardwood and a spiral newel post that took eight months to construct in our shop.
The homeowners had searched for eight years to find someone “crazy enough” to build their dream. When we completed it, one of Clyde’s trusted business partners—someone who’d seen him tackle countless unique projects—admitted he thought Clyde had lost his mind taking this one on. He genuinely didn’t believe we could pull it off.
We did. And the homeowners? Still thrilled years later.
Where Imagination Meets Reality
But these slides aren’t just for private estates. We’ve installed a 24-foot hickory slide in an elementary school library just east of Dallas, where kids absolutely love it. And here’s something that will make you smile: We built the longest wood slide ever for a children’s hospital in Springfield, Illinois.
Have you ever heard a child beg to go to the doctor?
We’re pretty sure it happens in Springfield. That walnut slide stretches 45 feet long and 3 feet wide—spacious enough for three children to sit side-by-side or for an adult and child to slide together comfortably. We built it in one piece, filling an entire semi-trailer for transport. It lives in the hospital lobby, and no appointment is needed to experience it yourself.
In Raleigh, North Carolina, we installed a 36-foot white oak slide in a custom home. The client loved it so much they ordered a second one—literally 15 minutes after we finished the installation. When Clyde returned to the office, there was already a check in the mailbox for slide number two. This 14,000-square-foot home now features 72 linear feet of curved white oak slide: one connecting the second floor to the main level, another linking the main floor to the finished basement.
What a ride, indeed.
Then there’s the curved stair-slide combination in Visalia, California—32 feet of knotty alder complemented by a hanging netted loft and climbing wall. Creative? Absolutely. Fun? Beyond measure.
The People Behind the Dreams
What inspires us most isn’t the technical challenge of building these slides—though engineering a 33-foot curved slide from 445 layers of cross-laminated hardwood certainly keeps us engaged. It’s working with clients who refuse to think inside the box.
These are creative individuals willing to explore ideas that set their homes and businesses apart. They dream of installations that make people stop and stare. They understand that architecture can—and should—inspire joy.
Listening to them describe their visions, explaining their dreams of a slide design unlike anything else on earth? That’s a privilege. And bringing those dreams to life? That’s what we live for.
My team and I have as much fun designing and building these slides as our clients have riding them. We’d love nothing better than to hear from you!
Custom Curved Wooden Slides
What Sets Top Tread Stairways Apart
Since 2006, Clyde Martin has built Top Tread Stairways on a simple premise: there’s a better way to build stairs. With roots in eastern Pennsylvania and years of experience installing hundreds of pre-built stairways, Clyde brought that expertise west and founded a company dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship.
We stock thousands of stair parts in more than ten wood species—hickory, jatoba, maple, cherry, mahogany, alder, red oak, white oak, poplar, Douglas fir, and walnut. Quality levels are high. Lead times are short. We understand the urgency of your project schedule and deliver accordingly.
But here’s what really matters: When it comes to custom wooden slides, Top Tread Stairways is one of—if not the—premier builders of indoor wooden slides in the United States. This isn’t a side project for us. It’s a specialty we’ve refined through years of experience, countless installations, and an unwavering commitment to turning impossible dreams into breathtaking reality.
Your Home, Reimagined
Whether you’re envisioning a straight wooden stand-alone slide for your office or a jaw-dropping curved wooden slide/stairway combination that will become your home’s signature feature, we’d love to hear from you.
We’re not here to build ordinary. We’re here to build extraordinary.
Ready to set your home apart?
~ Custom Curved Wooden Slides ~ ART YOU RIDE!

This article is posted here with the consent of the author. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, view, or opinion of Crestron Electronics, Inc., or of any of its employees. Crestron Electronics is not responsible for, and does not verify the accuracy of, any of the information contained in this article.
By Jeff Singer
The “smart” revolution began several years ago with smartphones (a.k.a phones) and has extended in recent years to thermostats, doorbells, alarm systems, and kitchen appliances. Smart devices are so ubiquitous that the term “smart” is overused to the point that it is almost meaningless. Companies are eager to jump on the bandwagon and claim their products are “smart,” and consumers proudly claim they have a smart home because they have lighting control. Misconceptions about smart homes are prevalent and create confusion in the marketplace. This can have deleterious effects on businesses and underserve consumers. Here are seven of the most popular misconceptions about smart homes:
1. Apps are smart
Apps are convenient and easy to use. Yes, it seems there’s an app for everything. People expect to be able to download an app and do just about anything. App developers and many companies do not disavow consumers of this myth. On the contrary, they promote this idea with carefully worded descriptions. The promise of having the world at your fingertips for $1.99 is very enticing. Although it sounds too good to be true, it is also too good to pass up for many people. This leads to undervaluing home control and disappointment when the apps don’t work, which undermines confidence in our industry. The fact is that apps are not smart. They do not control anything. They must connect to and communicate with a control system or cloud service that processes, prioritizes, and executes commands. That’s the real magic and what most people do not understand.
2. Smart devices work together
With so many smart appliances and devices on the market today, it’s understandable that the average consumer might think that they actually communicate and work together. This is simply not the case. Smart devices are not that smart. They are designed and manufactured by different, often competing, companies. There are no national or industry standards governing these products. Even if they all operate using Wi-Fi® communications, that doesn’t mean they work together. Some companies promote a home control platform, which unites different devices from different companies – in theory. The platform is yet another third-party software totally dependent on other companies developing APIs and writing control modules for their hardware to run on that piece of software. The devices are not independently compatible. Also, when updates are made to either the hardware or the software, functionality may be affected for some period. That’s a nice way of saying the device or system won’t work and there’s no way of knowing for how long.
3. It’s a DIY project
Which brings us to the next myth, which is that the average person can do it themselves. Unless you are a skilled professional, I would not advise taking on a smart home project. You want to make a light turn on and off with your Alexa® or Google Assistant™ virtual assistant software, go for it. A smart home takes much more planning and expertise. I have no problem changing a light bulb or hanging a light fixture in my dining room; however, I am not going to rewire my house. I may change the flush valve in my toilet, but I’m not going to replace the pipes in my house. You get it. Integrating devices and systems, establishing different zones, creating scenes, designing the UI with a balance between control, feedback, and simplicity – all takes experience and skill.
4. Need a programmer to make changes
Early adopters may have experienced the pain of trying to make a simple change or update to their home control system. Years ago, if the cable provider changed the channel line-up, the homeowner would have to call the dealer or programmer to make an appointment for them to come out to the house to reprogram the system. The system wouldn’t work as expected until it was updated, which often took several days and beaucoup bucks. Not anymore. Technology has evolved so now it’s easy for system owners to change favorite channels, create scenes, rename buttons, update images, and more. While a professional is needed for the initial installation and setup, the system is easy to manage once it’s up and running. This makes life so much easier for both dealer and customer.
5. Tech becomes obsolete quickly
Similar to updating the UI, updating firmware or hardware used to be a stressful process. A smart home should be intelligent enough to update itself. Apps don’t become obsolete. Updates are constantly pushed out from the cloud, making them better all the time. The same is true for a good smart home system. New features, functions, and device support gets added in the background consistently, so the system you installed (or purchased) yesterday gets better over time. Swapping out decorative elements, such as keypads, dimmers, and touch screens is also seamless. When a new device is added, all the settings are pulled down from the cloud and it just works. No system interruptions. No sunk costs. No imposing house calls. No surprise bills.
6. Lighting control saves energy and money
Lighting control is one of the most popular smart systems, but it takes more than just one system to make a home smart. On the surface, it makes sense that if you dim the lights ten percent, then you save ten percent of energy costs. If the shades are raised during the day to take advantage of sunlight so the lights don’t need to be on (or at least not 100%), but that causes the room temperature to rise a few degrees, which triggers the air conditioner to run longer and more often, was energy usage (or cost) reduced? A smart home integrates all the various systems and technology to optimize comfort, convenience, safety, and sometimes energy.
7. Home technology is easy to hack
Security is at the forefront of people’s minds these days. Personal identities are stolen; email accounts hacked; private photos publicized; and more. A smart home must outsmart those who don’t respect privacy. Crestron control systems adhere to the strictest security standards. The same Crestron control system that goes into a home is also installed in secure government and military facilities, global banking institutions, hospitals, and other mission critical applications. When installed correctly by a trained professional, a Crestron smart home is the gold standard for security, comfort, and convenience.

A collection that unites the poetic and unique beauty of stones harnessed by Dekton® technology, as those dreams where we observe and vaguely feel in control but only the deepest part of our mind truly understands. The collection is named in honor of the lavish inspiration of the two worlds conveyed in marbled colors to captivate our eyes and bring to any space a feeling we understand but cannot explain.

Western Outdoor Design, Landscape Design Process
Our design process begins with an initial consultation to understand and review your style and vision for your outdoor living space. We also work with you to understand how you plan to use the space and the desired feel you would like to achieve. Once these factors are identified, we examine your homes existing architecture to ensure continuity and flow to your new outdoor living space. Taking into consideration locations, views, site conditions and accessibility, we design your outdoor living space to flow from inside your home, out. We can establish a budget to build your project prior to the design phase.
Upon completion of the consultation, our design teams of license landscape architects and landscape designers will translate the vision into conceptual drawings and renderings. A visual presentation will also be prepared to convey the look and feel of the proposed project. Our goal is to come up with a design that is within your budget and surpasses your expectations.
Western Outdoor Design & Build is the ONLY call you need to make. We are your COMPLETE FULL SERVICE OUTDOOR LIVING COMPANY, from concept to completion. #sandiegolandscapedesigner #landscapedesignersinsandiego
www.westernoutdoordesigns.com
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