Designed for the lifestyle and budget of a young married couple and growing family, this home offers a viable alternative to the generic speculative home. Occupying a small leftover developer site, just under four tenths of an acre at the end of a suburban cul-de-sac, the Lanning Residence site is anchored by a one hundred year old oak tree. The parcel, once undesirable to developers and their speculative plans, became the inspiration for the project form. Acting as both designers and builders, the decision was made early to utilize a strategy typical to most suburban construction; maximizing square footage while minimizing the building perimeter. An analysis of the surrounding suburban fabric revealed that the adjoining property lines were heavily planted. Views and window placement were organized to take advantage of the adjacent landscape while maximizing natural light. The house program is distributed within two main volumes that are connected by a translucent circulation volume. The spacious interior volumes, large windows, plywood shear walls, sheetrock, and simple details allowed for a light construction budget. Spray foam insulation and well designed mechanical systems allowed the family to reduce their monthly utility bills by over half, creating a far more energy efficient lifestyle.

Custom Built home designed to fit on an undesirable lot provided a great opportunity to think outside of the box with creating a large open concept living space with a kitchen, dining room, living room, and sitting area. This space has extra high ceilings with concrete radiant heat flooring and custom IKEA cabinetry throughout. The master suite sits tucked away on one side of the house while the other bedrooms are upstairs with a large flex space, great for a kids play area!

This 8' palapa is the smallest of our three standard umbrellas. Also, peep the privacy bamboo fence in the back. We love to combine bamboo and cedar wood! Such a beautiful outcome. We also stain the natural bamboo to ensure durability and to make it match each backyard. These fences are perfect for separating areas in your patio to make you oasis even nicer. I'm not supposed to reveal this, but that bamboo fence is actually hiding all the ugly pool tanks and equipment!!! can be customized to any height or length and perfect to hide any ugly or undesirable patio necessity!

Simonton vinyl windows in bronze create an eye-catching contrast on this Arizona home. These windows not only create a stylish look for your home, but tend to outlast traditional windows.

This is a "before" photo prior Blackwater's design and construction. This project consisted of designing and installing a concrete paver patio area with a central fountain in the side yard, which was primarily weeds and undesirable vegetation.

Custom Built home designed to fit on an undesirable lot provided a great opportunity to think outside of the box with creating a large open concept living space with a kitchen, dining room, living room, and sitting area. This space has extra high ceilings with concrete radiant heat flooring and custom IKEA cabinetry throughout. The master suite sits tucked away on one side of the house while the other bedrooms are upstairs with a large flex space, great for a kids play area!

This early 20th century Indianapolis, IN basement remodel was in desperate need of help. The original and still operating hydronic radiant heating system had its plumbing configured without regard to any other use of the space. Fearful of harming the aged system and the high cost of doing so, these Clients were adamant that the existing system remain intact. Architect Lee Constantine developed a design that maintained the existing heating system while creating "niches" around the perimeter that would conceal the unsightly plumbing. Additionally, by removing free-standing structural supporting posts, amore flexible and inviting space was achieved. Because of an already low ceiling condition, the floor-ceiling structure above was kept exposed, painted and highlighted with indirect lighting to avoid further reducing the ceiling height. Constantine incorporated "clouds" on this ceiling to conceal certain existing components that either were cost prohibitive to relocate or couldn't be relocated. These "clouds"become a "visual element" through their geometry and hidden "indirect" light source rather than an undesirable complication. Now this family entertains frequently in the basement and reports "it doesn't feel like we're in a basement anymore"

This early 20th century Indianapolis, IN basement remodel was in desperate need of help. The original and still operating hydronic radiant heating system had its plumbing configured without regard to any other use of the space. Fearful of harming the aged system and the high cost of doing so, these Clients were adamant that the existing system remain intact. Architect Lee Constantine developed a design that maintained the existing heating system while creating "niches" around the perimeter that would conceal the unsightly plumbing. Additionally, by removing free-standing structural supporting posts, amore flexible and inviting space was achieved. Because of an already low ceiling condition, the floor-ceiling structure above was kept exposed, painted and highlighted with indirect lighting to avoid further reducing the ceiling height. Constantine incorporated "clouds" on this ceiling to conceal certain existing components that either were cost prohibitive to relocate or couldn't be relocated. These "clouds"become a "visual element" through their geometry and hidden "indirect" light source rather than an undesirable complication. Now this family entertains frequently in the basement and reports "it doesn't feel like we're in a basement anymore"

After - added sod, cleared out undesirable shrubbery, new windows throughout, updated outdoor lighting
Large transitional two-story brick and board and batten house exterior photo in Oklahoma City with a shed roof and a shingle roof

The neutral, porcelain floor replaced undesirable carpet. The owners also removed the rarely used tub and made the shower bigger lining it with oversized accent tile. Air plants and succulents bring a touch of green indoors and brighten up the space. Top down, bottom up shades add desirable light while maintaining privacy.

This early 20th century Indianapolis, IN basement remodel was in desperate need of help. The original and still operating hydronic radiant heating system had its plumbing configured without regard to any other use of the space. Fearful of harming the aged system and the high cost of doing so, these Clients were adamant that the existing system remain intact. Architect Lee Constantine developed a design that maintained the existing heating system while creating "niches" around the perimeter that would conceal the unsightly plumbing. Additionally, by removing free-standing structural supporting posts, amore flexible and inviting space was achieved. Because of an already low ceiling condition, the floor-ceiling structure above was kept exposed, painted and highlighted with indirect lighting to avoid further reducing the ceiling height. Constantine incorporated "clouds" on this ceiling to conceal certain existing components that either were cost prohibitive to relocate or couldn't be relocated. These "clouds"become a "visual element" through their geometry and hidden "indirect" light source rather than an undesirable complication. Now this family entertains frequently in the basement and reports "it doesn't feel like we're in a basement anymore"

Custom Built home designed to fit on an undesirable lot provided a great opportunity to think outside of the box with creating a large open concept living space with a kitchen, dining room, living room, and sitting area. This space has extra high ceilings with concrete radiant heat flooring and custom IKEA cabinetry throughout. The master suite sits tucked away on one side of the house while the other bedrooms are upstairs with a large flex space, great for a kids play area!

The goal of this project was to provide a lush and vast garden for the new owners of this recently remodeled brick Georgian. Located in Wheaton this acre plus property is surrounded by beautiful Oaks. Preserving the Oaks became a particular challenge with the ample front walk and generous entertaining spaces the client desired. Under most of the Oaks the turf was in very poor condition, and most of the property was covered with undesirable overgrown underbrush such as Garlic Mustard weed and Buckthorn. With a recently completed addition, the garages were pushed farther from the front door leaving a large distance between the drive and entry to the home. This prompted the addition of a secondary door off the kitchen. A meandering walk curves past the secondary entry and leads guests through the front garden to the main entry. Off the secondary door a “kitchen patio” complete with a custom gate and Green Mountain Boxwood hedge give the clients a quaint space to enjoy a morning cup of joe. Stepping stone pathways lead around the home and weave through multiple pocket gardens within the vast backyard. The paths extend deep into the property leading to individual and unique gardens with a variety of plantings that are tied together with rustic stonewalls and sinuous turf areas. Closer to the home a large paver patio opens up to the backyard gardens. New stoops were constructed and existing stoops were covered in bluestone and mortared stonewalls were added, complimenting the classic Georgian architecture. The completed project accomplished all the goals of creating a lush and vast garden that fit the remodeled home and lifestyle of its new owners. Through careful planning, all mature Oaks were preserved, undesirables removed and numerous new plantings along with detailed stonework helped to define the new landscape.

When all but the master suite was redesigned in a newly-purchased home, an opportunity arose for transformation. Lack of storage, low-height counters and an unnecessary closet space were all undesirable. Closing off the adjacent closet allowed for wider and taller vanities and a make-up station in the bathroom. Eliminating the tub, a shower sizable to wash large dogs is nestled by the windows offering ample light. The water-closet sits where the previous shower was, paired with French doors creating an airy feel while maintaining privacy. In the old closet, the previous opening to the master bath is closed off with new access from the hallway allowing for a new laundry space. The cabinetry layout ensures maximum storage. Utilizing the longest wall for equipment offered full surface space with short hanging above and a tower functions as designated tall hanging with the dog’s water bowl built-in below. A palette of warm silvers and blues compliment the bold patterns found in each of the spaces.

The kitchen features strategically placed skylights to provide natural day lighting while minimizing undesirable heat gain.
Kitchen - craftsman medium tone wood floor kitchen idea in Los Angeles with raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, ceramic backsplash and a farmhouse sink

A young CEO wanted new corporate offices that reflected the company brand and their conservative, traditional values. It was explicitly stated that beyond the cubicle bullpen and entry to mid-level offices, an “office furniture” look and feel was completely undesirable. Instead, topping the desirability list were: comfortable furnishings; a relaxed upscale feel; a casual collaborative meeting space for staff; a world class boardroom for hosting meetings, and a way to showcase items from the CEO’s entrepreneurial family history. Walls were moved to create a cockpit CEO office that includes a second conference table and lounge area, a new employee kitchen, a new employee lounge and an enlarged boardroom. Glass walls were used in both the reception area and the employee lounge to enhance lighting and provide a sense of spaciousness. Company brand colors are woven throughout and their logo was used as a creative flourish in the custom area rug in reception and glass signage in the boardroom. Photography by David Van Scott

This Master Bathroom was outdated in appearance and although the size of the room was sufficient, the space felt crowded. The toilet location was undesirable, the shower was cramped and the bathroom floor was cold to stand on. The client wanted a new configuration that would eliminate the corner tub, but still have a bathtub in the room, plus a larger shower and more privacy to the toilet area. The 1980’s look needed to be replaced with a clean, contemporary look. A new room layout created a more functional space. A separated space was achieved for the toilet by relocating it and adding a cabinet and custom hanging pipe shelf above for privacy. By adding a double sink vanity, we gained valuable floor space to still have a soaking tub and larger shower. In-floor heat keeps the room cozy and warm all year long. The entry door was replaced with a pocket door to keep the area in front of the vanity unobstructed. The cabinet next to the toilet has sliding doors and adds storage for towels and toiletries and the vanity has a pull-out hair station. Rich, walnut cabinetry is accented nicely with the soft, blue/green color palette of the tiles and wall color. New window shades that can be lifted from the bottom or top are ideal if they want full light or an unobstructed view, while maintaining privacy. Handcrafted swirl pendants illuminate the vanity and are made from 100% recycled glass.

When all but the master suite was redesigned in a newly-purchased home, an opportunity arose for transformation. Lack of storage, low-height counters and an unnecessary closet space were all undesirable. Closing off the adjacent closet allowed for wider and taller vanities and a make-up station in the bathroom. Eliminating the tub, a shower sizable to wash large dogs is nestled by the windows offering ample light. The water-closet sits where the previous shower was, paired with French doors creating an airy feel while maintaining privacy. In the old closet, the previous opening to the master bath is closed off with new access from the hallway allowing for a new laundry space. The cabinetry layout ensures maximum storage. Utilizing the longest wall for equipment offered full surface space with short hanging above and a tower functions as designated tall hanging with the dog’s water bowl built-in below. A palette of warm silvers and blues compliment the bold patterns found in each of the spaces.

A young CEO wanted new corporate offices that reflected the company brand and their conservative, traditional values. It was explicitly stated that beyond the cubicle bullpen and entry to mid-level offices, an “office furniture” look and feel was completely undesirable. Instead, topping the desirability list were: comfortable furnishings; a relaxed upscale feel; a casual collaborative meeting space for staff; a world class boardroom for hosting meetings, and a way to showcase items from the CEO’s entrepreneurial family history. Walls were moved to create a cockpit CEO office that includes a second conference table and lounge area, a new employee kitchen, a new employee lounge and an enlarged boardroom. Glass walls were used in both the reception area and the employee lounge to enhance lighting and provide a sense of spaciousness. Company brand colors are woven throughout and their logo was used as a creative flourish in the custom area rug in reception and glass signage in the boardroom. Photography by David Van Scott