Julia Valenti
Elegant home design photo in New York

Request a copy of the Kuiken Brothers Moulding & Millwork catalog www.kuikenbrothers.com/moulding
Living room - traditional living room idea in New York

Basements in houses built in the 50's face a lot of challenges when it comes to development - bulkheads, uneven floors, small windows, disintegrating plumbing, and cracked walls all need to be dealt with to provide a perfect modern finish. This basement required everything from completely new plumbing from the stack to the street, levelled breathable subfloor, spray foamed walls and rim joists, bulkheads, and a load bearing support wall.

Master Bedroom Suite, Venetian Plaster, Walls & Ceilings San Clemente, CA Our client wanted lighter Venetian Plaster throughout their Master Bedroom in their new home. The old plaster finishes were much too dark and gloomy. We coordinated the tones of the plaster with the stone flooring in the bathroom. The final coat of wax was burnished to a light sumptuous polish, maintaining an overall elegant yet casual feel to this space. The bullnoses were our biggest challenge: the previous plaster job was as closer to an outdoor stucco and was uneven/sloppy overall. The shift in color, texture and quality has our client very happy!

Windlestraw is a picturesque Edwardian manor hotel overlooking the Tweed Valley, near Walkerburn in the Scottish Borders area of Scotland. One of the bathrooms in the manor was in the process of being refurbished when two layers of floor tiles were removed, unveiling an original Marble tiled floor dating back to the 1920s. After the top layers of tile had been removed the Marble was still covered in old adhesive and cement and although Marble is known for its quality and durability the hotel owner didn’t want the building contractor to proceed any further in case they damaged it. The owner was keen to restore the Marble floor as an original feature so we were called in to set the situation right. To restore the floor I used two processes known as milling and burnishing. Milling literally involves grinding down uneven or rough surfaces using very coarse, diamond encrusted pads. The pads are usually used to resolve lippage issues on natural stone but in this case we needed to use the very coarse abrasive pads to grind off the adhesive and cement. I used a set of three coarse milling pads rinsing with water between each pad and starting with a 50 grit pad, before moving on to 100 and 200 grit pads. This process was very effective and ground off the cement and adhesive, while also removing any lippage in the tiles to leave a completely flat surface. Milling leaves the surface of the Marble tiles clean but in a rough condition and this is where the second process Burnishing comes in. Similar to milling, burnishing focuses on achieving a polished finish with the application of ever finer grades of polishing pads and is often used to bring back the polish on Limestone and Travertine as well as Marble. Moving on to the burnishing, I worked my way through the four diamond encrusted pad system lubricating with a little water and again rinsing between each pad to remove the slurry. The grits go from Coarse (400 grit), Medium (800 grit), Fine (1500 grit) and then eventually Very Fine (3000 grit) and come in a 17” pad for use on a rotary floor machine and were applied twice in sequence to achieve a fantastic polished shine. The floor was given a final rinse and then dried with a wet-vacuum before we proceeded to seal the floor using Tile Doctor Shine Powder which is a crystallizing powder that is applied directly to the floor and worked in using a buffing pad fitted to a rotary machine. Shine Powder provides a very high shine (as you can see from the photos), along with a tough durable finish. On top of this, it is suitable for sealing all natural stone, including, of course, Marble, along with Limestone, Granite, Slate and Travertine. The customer was absolutely delighted with the results as were we although it’s now up to them to ensure the bathroom fitters take appropriate care when completing the room which I’m sure will look absolutely fantastic when complete and no doubt add to the allure of this magnificent hotel in the Scottish Borders. Thomas Wilson Edinburgh Tile Doctor

## Professional Wallpaper Installation Lincoln Park Project Wallpaper installation Lincoln Park requires expert techniques for this stunning greystone renovation. Lincoln Park's architectural heritage includes beautiful greystones, vintage condos, and historic buildings that demand specialized installation approaches respecting original craftsmanship. ## Materials and Products Used We utilized premium vinyl wallpaper with fabric backing for durability. Additionally, commercial-grade adhesives from Benjamin Moore ensure long-lasting application. Furthermore, we applied specialized primers designed for vintage plaster surfaces common in Lincoln Park homes. ## Four-Step Installation Process First, complete removal of existing wallpaper and surface preparation. Second, repair any wall imperfections and apply appropriate primer. Third, precise measurement and cutting with careful pattern matching. Finally, professional installation with seamless application and detailed finishing. ## Chicago Home Challenges Chicago's harsh winters create expansion and contraction issues requiring flexible adhesives. Moreover, older Lincoln Park buildings often have uneven plaster walls needing extensive preparation. Additionally, potential lead paint concerns in vintage homes require certified safe work practices. ## Results and Quality Standards Perfect pattern alignment across all seams creates seamless appearance throughout the space. Furthermore, moisture-resistant materials ensure longevity against Chicago's humidity fluctuations. The finished installation enhances the home's architectural character while providing modern durability. ## Professional Tips Always test adhesive compatibility on small areas first. Moreover, control room temperature and humidity during installation for optimal results. Additionally, choose wallpaper appropriate for Chicago's climate conditions. See more work and request free estimate at windypainters.com. ## Frequently Asked Questions Q: How long does wallpaper installation Lincoln Park typically take for one room? A: Most single rooms completed within one to two days including preparation, removal, and professional wallpaper installation Lincoln Park application. Q: What wallpaper types work best in Chicago's climate conditions? A: Vinyl and fabric-backed wallpapers offer superior durability against humidity and temperature changes affecting wallpaper installation Lincoln Park projects. Q: Can you install wallpaper over existing painted walls in older homes? A: Yes, with proper surface preparation and primer application, wallpaper installation Lincoln Park works excellently over previously painted surfaces. Q: Do you handle complete wallpaper removal before new installation? A: Absolutely, comprehensive wallpaper removal and surface preparation included in all wallpaper installation Lincoln Park project estimates and services. Q: What preparation is required for vintage Lincoln Park home wallpaper installation? A: Surface cleaning, repairs, lead paint testing if applicable, and proper primer application essential for successful wallpaper installation Lincoln Park. Q: How do you ensure perfect pattern matching across large walls? A: Expert measuring, cutting, and installation techniques guarantee seamless pattern alignment throughout every wallpaper installation Lincoln Park project we complete. Q: What warranty coverage do you provide for wallpaper installation work? A: All wallpaper installation Lincoln Park projects include comprehensive warranty coverage protecting your investment and ensuring long-lasting beautiful results. Q: Can wallpaper installation work in Lincoln Park condos and smaller spaces? A: Yes, we specialize in all housing types including condos, requiring precise wallpaper installation Lincoln Park techniques for optimal results. Q: How do Chicago weather conditions affect wallpaper installation timing and materials? A: We schedule wallpaper installation Lincoln Park during optimal conditions and recommend climate-appropriate materials for Chicago's challenging weather patterns. Q: What makes Windy City Painters different for wallpaper installation Lincoln Park projects? A: Local Chicago expertise, understanding of neighborhood architecture, and proven wallpaper installation Lincoln Park experience delivering exceptional quality results.

Master Bedroom Suite, Venetian Plaster, Walls & Ceilings San Clemente, CA Our client wanted lighter Venetian Plaster throughout their Master Bedroom in their new home. The old plaster finishes were much too dark and gloomy. We coordinated the tones of the plaster with the stone flooring in the bathroom. The final coat of wax was burnished to a light sumptuous polish, maintaining an overall elegant yet casual feel to this space. The bullnoses were our biggest challenge: the previous plaster job was as closer to an outdoor stucco and was uneven/sloppy overall. The shift in color, texture and quality has our client very happy!

Small townhouse deck remodel completed with full replacement of the old painted pressure-treated wood deck using Trex composite decking, Trex posts, and Trex railing for a longer-lasting and lower-maintenance finish. The project included removal of deteriorated materials, correction of uneven framing, and installation of new level structural components to support the new deck surface. The finished result provided a clean, durable, and updated outdoor space with improved appearance and performance.

A small powder room off the kitchen matches the island in finishes. With a vessel sink and brick column the space brings additional character to the room.

Basements in houses built in the 50's face a lot of challenges when it comes to development - bulkheads, uneven floors, small windows, disintegrating plumbing, and cracked walls all need to be dealt with to provide a perfect modern finish. This basement required everything from completely new plumbing from the stack to the street, levelled breathable subfloor, spray foamed walls and rim joists, bulkheads, and a load bearing support wall.

Example of a trendy dining room design in San Francisco

Natural, raw wood finishes fused with the mid-century modern design give the pieces of the Palermo collection their characteristically organic look. This platform bed frame has a live edge headboard fashioned from acacia wood featuring uneven edges along the top. The dark brown finish of the floor-to-mattress base provides a nice contrast to the raw look and feel of the headboard. This bed frame fits a standard eastern mattress for the king, and standard queen mattress for the queen, and requires assembly.

Small townhouse deck remodel completed with full replacement of the old painted pressure-treated wood deck using Trex composite decking, Trex posts, and Trex railing for a longer-lasting and lower-maintenance finish. The project included removal of deteriorated materials, correction of uneven framing, and installation of new level structural components to support the new deck surface. The finished result provided a clean, durable, and updated outdoor space with improved appearance and performance.

Build Iconic Inc. specializes in kitchen renovations for Brooklyn’s historic homes — brownstones, pre-war buildings, and landmarked properties where getting it right means respecting the original character while bringing the space fully up to modern standards. As a licensed NYC general contractor (DCA #2107844), we understand the unique challenges of working within older structures: uneven floors, outdated wiring, plaster walls, and, in some cases, Landmarks Preservation Commission requirements. We blend historical sensitivity with modern function, preserving original details like moldings, exposed brick, and period-appropriate finishes while updating the kitchen for how people actually cook and live today. Our historical kitchen remodeling includes: • Structural and layout updates that respect original building bones • Electrical and plumbing upgrades brought fully up to current code • Custom cabinetry and finishes that complement a home’s original era and style • Careful integration of modern appliances and smart home technology without disrupting historic character • Coordination with Landmarks requirements where applicable

For the Blackhorse Houston home, we removed the wooden balusters and installed our PC4/1, PC4/4, and PC6/1 powder coated wrought iron balusters with our Midnight Bronze finish. To finish out this 1 for 1 baluster swap, we installed our large 60/7 shoes, giving the staircase a mediterranean look that will be the focal point of the entryway.

Listing is for table only! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - With its rounded top and wood pedestal base our gorgeous Rustic X Round Pedestal Farmhouse Dining Room Table will be the perfect gathering spot for lingering mornings and entertaining gatherings. With its timeless style and beautiful construction you are sure to enjoy this table for many years to come. Hand built from solid pine wood, the table shown is 48" round x 30" high. First 5 pictures are golden oak stain and the last few are kona. Three coats of polyurethane are applied for protection. Other stain or paint colors are also available. If you would like to add chairs, please view our line of solid wood chairs. First group of pictures shows table stained in golden oak with chairs that are not ours and not available through us. Outside pictures show table stained in golden oak. Last picture was another customer provided picture - table stained in cypress. First 3 pictures by: Photography courtesy of Tyler Norman Photography http://www.tylernormanphotography.com Design and styling by Christine McCall Home https://www.christinemccallhome.com/weston-drive **Please note that this item is artisan crafted with meticulous care. Each item is unique and no two are exactly alike. The finish you may receive won't be the exact reproduction of what you see in the pictures, due to variations in each board used. Further, by their nature, wood planks may be somewhat uneven, and may cup or bow slightly over time, further enhancing their rustic one-of-a-kind character; cracks, dents, scratches, etc may be present. Given its handmade and hand-finished nature, variations in the wood are to be expected and celebrated. ++Decorations not included.++ Proudly made in the USA! Thanks for checking out Penn Rustics! Copyright © Penn Rustics

Listing is for table only! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - With its rounded top and wood pedestal base our gorgeous Rustic X Round Pedestal Farmhouse Dining Room Table will be the perfect gathering spot for lingering mornings and entertaining gatherings. With its timeless style and beautiful construction you are sure to enjoy this table for many years to come. Hand built from solid pine wood, the table shown is 48" round x 30" high. First 5 pictures are golden oak stain and the last few are kona. Three coats of polyurethane are applied for protection. Other stain or paint colors are also available. If you would like to add chairs, please view our line of solid wood chairs. First group of pictures shows table stained in golden oak with chairs that are not ours and not available through us. Outside pictures show table stained in golden oak. Last picture was another customer provided picture - table stained in cypress. First 3 pictures by: Photography courtesy of Tyler Norman Photography http://www.tylernormanphotography.com Design and styling by Christine McCall Home https://www.christinemccallhome.com/weston-drive **Please note that this item is artisan crafted with meticulous care. Each item is unique and no two are exactly alike. The finish you may receive won't be the exact reproduction of what you see in the pictures, due to variations in each board used. Further, by their nature, wood planks may be somewhat uneven, and may cup or bow slightly over time, further enhancing their rustic one-of-a-kind character; cracks, dents, scratches, etc may be present. Given its handmade and hand-finished nature, variations in the wood are to be expected and celebrated. ++Decorations not included.++ Proudly made in the USA! Thanks for checking out Penn Rustics! Copyright © Penn Rustics

Basements in houses built in the 50's face a lot of challenges when it comes to development - bulkheads, uneven floors, small windows, disintegrating plumbing, and cracked walls all need to be dealt with to provide a perfect modern finish. This basement required everything from completely new plumbing from the stack to the street, levelled breathable subfloor, spray foamed walls and rim joists, bulkheads, and a load bearing support wall.