Sometimes the unique challenges of a site dictate almost everything about the end design. This European-inspired mountain retreat is one classic example. Perched atop a ridge, the buildable area was long but very narrow. A single axial line connects from the initial approach straight through the house and shoots to the view of mountains at the far end. The architecture of the home was envisioned to feel like an old French monastery-turned-family-home which has been restored and added to over several centuries. It is a place of solace and introspection, where the repetition of stone in house and landscape feels imposing, yet safe. Lush plantings line the sun-soaked parking court and dot the back terrace areas, creating delicate play of light and movement. A stepped water rill between terrace levels completes the atmosphere with its soothing babble.

Every remodeling project presents its own unique challenges. This client’s original remodel vision was to replace an outdated kitchen, optimize ocean views with new decking and windows, updated the mother-in-law’s suite, and add a new loft. But all this changed one historic day when the Woolsey Fire swept through Malibu in November 2018 and leveled this neighborhood, including our remodel, which was underway. Shifting to a ground-up design-build project, the JRP team worked closely with the homeowners through every step of designing, permitting, and building their new home. As avid horse owners, the redesign inspiration started with their love of rustic farmhouses and through the design process, turned into a more refined modern farmhouse reflected in the clean lines of white batten siding, and dark bronze metal roofing. Starting from scratch, the interior spaces were repositioned to take advantage of the ocean views from all the bedrooms, kitchen, and open living spaces. The kitchen features a stacked chiseled edge granite island with cement pendant fixtures and rugged concrete-look perimeter countertops. The tongue and groove ceiling is repeated on the stove hood for a perfectly coordinated style. A herringbone tile pattern lends visual contrast to the cooking area. The generous double-section kitchen sink features side-by-side faucets. Bi-fold doors and windows provide unobstructed sweeping views of the natural mountainside and ocean views. Opening the windows creates a perfect pass-through from the kitchen to outdoor entertaining. The expansive wrap-around decking creates the ideal space to gather for conversation and outdoor dining or soak in the California sunshine and the remarkable Pacific Ocean views.

This Pacific Northwest kitchen remodel was all about creating connection, warmth, and thoughtful functionality within a long, narrow footprint. By removing a structural wall and replacing it with a 16-foot steel I-beam, we were able to open sightlines and seamlessly connect the kitchen to the family room, transforming how the space feels and functions. The design balances natural textures and inviting tones, featuring walnut cabinetry, custom green accents, and a one-of-a-kind bar area with an Ash River walnut/resin backsplash. A unique challenge was working around the existing brick fireplace, which we integrated by layering cabinetry and a Cement Elegance surround to visually extend the kitchen while maximizing storage. Custom details like the faux metal beam wraps, appliance garages, and full-height cabinetry elevate both form and function, resulting in a highly personalized space that feels expansive, cohesive, and distinctly Northwest.

This active family needed to overhaul this large property but didn't know where to start. "It's like three acres of boring dirt and weeds", said my client. The steeply sloped property did indeed present unique challenges with ever-present voracious deer, the need for erosion control and bank stabilization, large areas that required planting while still considering water conservation, and the need for beautification and modernization to tie into the aesthetic of the newly renovated home. Concurrently, safety and access to all parts of the property were a consideration. Landscaping goals were accomplished through careful plant selection and judicious use of retaining walls in various styles throughout the property. Generous railroad tie steps were used on sloping side yards. The landscaped portions converge gracefully with the existing oak woodland. Children can play and hide in many fun spots, while my client's elderly grandmother can safely walk around.

This 3,850-square-foot single-family home in New Jersey exemplifies modern design and architectural ingenuity. Built on a tight lot with stringent zoning regulations, the project posed unique challenges that were met with innovative solutions to deliver a truly

Dan has been a successful general contractor for over 15 years, working almost exclusively on Capitol Hill. Extremely familiar with the unique challenges that can be faced with historic homes, he is our resident expert for all things construction. We rely on his expertise for the very best solutions and industry-leading building practices for our clients. He and Lisa have been married for over 20 years and he often fields the question..."are you Leroy"?

Every remodeling project presents its own unique challenges. This client’s original remodel vision was to replace an outdated kitchen, optimize ocean views with new decking and windows, updated the mother-in-law’s suite, and add a new loft. But all this changed one historic day when the Woolsey Fire swept through Malibu in November 2018 and leveled this neighborhood, including our remodel, which was underway. Shifting to a ground-up design-build project, the JRP team worked closely with the homeowners through every step of designing, permitting, and building their new home. As avid horse owners, the redesign inspiration started with their love of rustic farmhouses and through the design process, turned into a more refined modern farmhouse reflected in the clean lines of white batten siding, and dark bronze metal roofing. Starting from scratch, the interior spaces were repositioned to take advantage of the ocean views from all the bedrooms, kitchen, and open living spaces. The kitchen features a stacked chiseled edge granite island with cement pendant fixtures and rugged concrete-look perimeter countertops. The tongue and groove ceiling is repeated on the stove hood for a perfectly coordinated style. A herringbone tile pattern lends visual contrast to the cooking area. The generous double-section kitchen sink features side-by-side faucets. Bi-fold doors and windows provide unobstructed sweeping views of the natural mountainside and ocean views. Opening the windows creates a perfect pass-through from the kitchen to outdoor entertaining. The expansive wrap-around decking creates the ideal space to gather for conversation and outdoor dining or soak in the California sunshine and the remarkable Pacific Ocean views.

Our Gold Dust project is what we would call a rip out and replace, but with more effort. The kitchen before was decent, however it had an angle that protruded in the kitchen that only allowed for a small island. With keeping the floor, we knew that this was going to be a unique challenge. We also remodeled the bar and updated the laundry room as well. For the kitchen, our clients wanted more function and cohesive movement throughout the space. In the beginning, if you were standing at the sink, and turn, you would get hip checked by the island. So, we pushed back the angled walls that cut into the kitchen, then turned and extended the island to host more seats. We kept the rest of the kitchen with the same layout and updated the cabinetry. Our clients went with a classic white shaker for the perimeter and for the island they chose a dark blue stain on a poplar wood species. For the countertops, they went with a beautiful white quartz everywhere and a three inch mitered edge for the island. Marble backsplash was put in to continue that classic timeless style. For the hardware, a gold finish was chosen to add warmth and to compliment the black plumbing fixtures. In the bar, there were two massive columns that were taking up too much real estate. By removing them, we were able to add in a full-size wine refrigerator and open the space for a more functional entertaining bar. We kept the laundry with the same layout, but just updated the cabinets and added the same marble backsplash from the kitchen. By keeping the bar and the laundry room the same cabinets as in the kitchen, this house now feels timeless, classic, and cozy. We had such a joyful time working with our clients on this home.

Our Gold Dust project is what we would call a rip out and replace, but with more effort. The kitchen before was decent, however it had an angle that protruded in the kitchen that only allowed for a small island. With keeping the floor, we knew that this was going to be a unique challenge. We also remodeled the bar and updated the laundry room as well. For the kitchen, our clients wanted more function and cohesive movement throughout the space. In the beginning, if you were standing at the sink, and turn, you would get hip checked by the island. So, we pushed back the angled walls that cut into the kitchen, then turned and extended the island to host more seats. We kept the rest of the kitchen with the same layout and updated the cabinetry. Our clients went with a classic white shaker for the perimeter and for the island they chose a dark blue stain on a poplar wood species. For the countertops, they went with a beautiful white quartz everywhere and a three inch mitered edge for the island. Marble backsplash was put in to continue that classic timeless style. For the hardware, a gold finish was chosen to add warmth and to compliment the black plumbing fixtures. In the bar, there were two massive columns that were taking up too much real estate. By removing them, we were able to add in a full-size wine refrigerator and open the space for a more functional entertaining bar. We kept the laundry with the same layout, but just updated the cabinets and added the same marble backsplash from the kitchen. By keeping the bar and the laundry room the same cabinets as in the kitchen, this house now feels timeless, classic, and cozy. We had such a joyful time working with our clients on this home.

Philadelphia’s mix of historic buildings and new developments brings unique challenges. I’ve installed wallcoverings in cafes, workspaces, and medical practices, always focusing on prep, clean lines, and materials that complement both modern and classic architecture.

This 3,850-square-foot single-family home in New Jersey exemplifies modern design and architectural ingenuity. Built on a tight lot with stringent zoning regulations, the project posed unique challenges that were met with innovative solutions to deliver a truly

The primary bath presented a unique challenge with its compact footprint, but we made it feel airy and open while maximizing storage. The vanity was extended to its full potential, offering ample drawer storage, and a triple-medicine cabinet mirror above. To keep the shower feeling open and spacious, we added a small bench along the back wall and cleverly extruded a stone shampoo tower, creating a seamless and functional design element.

16' Wide x 11'8" Max. Fabric Projection Nuimage 8700 Series Awning by Douglas L. Gibson Enterprises Inc. in Malvern, Pa. Custom measured, to the inch, to fit under an existing pergola. Mounting: Wall - Anchored into Fieldstone Wall. Unique Challenges Overcome: The backside of the Hood had to scribed to allow room for existing downspout to fit through the awning (left side). This ensured that the transition from building to awning above bar table would be Gapless for light rain protection. Frame Color: Black/Brown Powder Coated to match outdoor lighting fixtures. Fabric = Sunbrella 100% Woven Acrylic - Silica Stone #4861

On top of many other considerations, sound was a significant factor – in more ways than one – when it came time for prentiss+balance+wickline ARCHITECTS to design Seattle’s “Ballard Cut” house. In fact, it was particularly relevant to the home’s fenestration. Situated on a patch of ground that offered gorgeous views of Puget Sound on one side but a railroad cutback on the other, Ballard Cut presented a unique challenge. To address this conundrum, the designers at prentiss+balance+wickline wanted windows with optimal sightlines to augment the inlet-side views and proper sound absorption to negate the roar of the trains. After considering many options, prentiss+balance+wickline ultimately found what they were seeking in Milgard Windows & Doors’ aluminum windows. Read full story: https://www.milgard.com/blog/aluminum-windows-milgard-ensure-fabulous-views-seattle

This 3,850-square-foot single-family home in New Jersey exemplifies modern design and architectural ingenuity. Built on a tight lot with stringent zoning regulations, the project posed unique challenges that were met with innovative solutions to deliver a truly

A bathroom to suit a tween both now and as she grows was a unique challenge. By avoiding clichéd childish decor and incorporating timeless, elegant elements, we achieved a design that will evolve with her. We used classic materials like white subway tiles and recycled glass penny rounds for a pop of color and shimmer.

Sometimes the unique challenges of a site dictate almost everything about the end design. This European-inspired mountain retreat is one classic example. Perched atop a ridge, the buildable area was long but very narrow. A single axial line connects from the initial approach straight through the house and shoots to the view of mountains at the far end. The architecture of the home was envisioned to feel like an old French monastery-turned-family-home which has been restored and added to over several centuries. It is a place of solace and introspection, where the repetition of stone in house and landscape feels imposing, yet safe. Lush plantings line the sun-soaked parking court and dot the back terrace areas, creating delicate play of light and movement. A stepped water rill between terrace levels completes the atmosphere with its soothing babble.

This Pacific Northwest kitchen remodel was all about creating connection, warmth, and thoughtful functionality within a long, narrow footprint. By removing a structural wall and replacing it with a 16-foot steel I-beam, we were able to open sightlines and seamlessly connect the kitchen to the family room, transforming how the space feels and functions. The design balances natural textures and inviting tones, featuring walnut cabinetry, custom green accents, and a one-of-a-kind bar area with an Ash River walnut/resin backsplash. A unique challenge was working around the existing brick fireplace, which we integrated by layering cabinetry and a Cement Elegance surround to visually extend the kitchen while maximizing storage. Custom details like the faux metal beam wraps, appliance garages, and full-height cabinetry elevate both form and function, resulting in a highly personalized space that feels expansive, cohesive, and distinctly Northwest.

San Diego’s coastal climate and modern interiors make wallpaper installation a unique challenge. I’ve worked on commercial projects in offices, spas, and lobbies installing everything from textured vinyls to bold accent walls with clean, moisture-resistant results.