Come rain or snow, this 3-stall garage-turned-pickleball haven ensures year-round play. Climate-controlled and two stories tall, it's a regulation court with a touch of nostalgia, with walls adorned with personalized memorabilia. Storage cabinets maintain order, and the built-in A/V system amplifies the experience. A dedicated seating area invites friends and fans to gather, watch the thrilling matches and bask in the unique charm of this one-of-a-kind pickleball paradise.

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

This South Shore of Boston client approached the team of Renovisions to remodel her existing basement bathroom. This bath, with an outdated fiberglass shower stall was cracked and leaking into the concrete floor below. The room had inadequate storage, was dark and did not boost this home’s overall market value. It was definitely time for a Renovision and the client was excited to get started! She was looking forward to sharing the new space with guests that stay at her home and use the bathroom often. Working alongside this client was fun and productive as great design and product choices were selected together. In the design process, Renovisions presented a unique idea; using the basement foundation ledge for a shelf that ran into the shower area, gaining extra space for shampoos and soaps, eliminating the need for a niche. Another great idea was to implement a Grohe Smart Control valve which brings this shower experience to another level; they can choose ways to spray with the right degree of warmth. The stunning stream-lined shower trims in brushed nickel finish match the style and finish on the single-lever vanity faucet. The contrasting dark grey, large format porcelain floor tile’s texture resembles a linen-look pattern the client requested while complimenting the darker veining in the quartz curb, shelf and vanity countertop. The Carrera-look porcelain shower wall tiles boast no-maintenance and provides a clean, brighter appeal seen through the beautiful custom shower glass enclosure. We lightened up the bath with a light blue paint color which added a fresh look, giving the illusion of a bigger space. As you can see, with the right colors, textures and accessories, we transformed this basement bath from Drab to Fab. The client was thrilled with her basement Renovision, a true Breath of Fresh Flair’!

Maybe you can relate to these empty nesters who reached out to us to design and build a new kitchen for their current and long term needs. They do lots of entertaining, have an extensive wine collection and enjoy welcoming more grandchildren into the family. Both cook, although he prefers his grill. They wanted their new kitchen to be an open space that is easier to move around in. They were also looking forward to more storage and new, state-of-the-art appliances. Design objectives: -New layout to accommodate large groups for frequent entertaining -Big island to seat as many people as possible Improve traffic flow by omitting a counter peninsula by the family room and other cabinet barriers -Main cooktop to face visitors with point-of-use spices, utensils, pots & pans nearby -Multiple cooking & refrigeration appliances -Plan for as much countertop space as possible for multiple cooks -Dedicated spaces needed for wine, liquor, cold drinks & decorative glassware -Incorporate special details such as thick or waterfall countertops, unique backsplash, wood accents -Need better task, ambient and general lighting -Make it beautiful – a kitchen the homeowners could be proud of -Seamlessly join kitchen with breakfast room, given load-bearing wall & various ceiling heights -Ensure the large, newly opened space remains intimate and inclusive -Determine how to best utilize the breakfast room, given limited availability of wall space with two sets of French doors and a large window -Relocating two ventilation ducts currently in a wall to be removed -Incorporate multiple appliances while adding functional storage -Integrate special details that wouldn’t be lost in a large room -Utilize multiple finishes and colors that provide continuity Design solutions: -The wall between the kitchen & breakfast nook was completely removed – the structural beam was shortened, providing the largest opening possible -One small wall section remained intact to relocate ductwork, which conveniently created an alcove for the dual refrigerator armoire -Two islands in the same finish visually join the elongated room -The cooking island includes necessary point-of-use storage along with a steam oven and additional storage on the opposite side The wide cooking island allows for two cooks to comfortably share the counter space, allowing casual interaction -The second island fills the center of the former breakfast room; tall cabinets in a contrasting finish flank the French doors and provide visual balance -The sizable second island provides seating for six on a conversation-conducive curve. It houses freezer drawers, a microwave drawer, an under-counter refrigerator, plus additional storage -Docking station inside drawer -Two cabinet styles in three finishes provide continuity, balance and interest in the large room While the clients didn’t have a specific vision of the remodeled space, they were completely open to new ideas and knew which features they wanted when they saw them. They were truly doing the project for their own enjoyment and that of their family and guests. We’re happy to know they are thrilled with the end result. In fact, we had so much fun working together we’re now talking about a new project!

Project Completion Announcement: We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of another transformative project by Levite Construction Co.! This time, we had the privilege of working on a unique and exciting project: the design and build of a combined Bathroom and Laundry Room. The transformation from separate spaces to a spacious, functional, and elegant area is a testament to our dedication and expertise in the construction industry. Our skilled team at Levite Construction Co. was tasked to combine a powder room and a storage room, creating a stunningly spacious Bathroom and Laundry Room. The project included: Bathroom and Laundry Room Design and Build: From concept to reality, we executed a seamless transformation that turned two separate spaces into a luxurious bathroom. Our team meticulously incorporated high-quality fixtures, exquisite tiling, and efficient storage solutions to maximize both comfort and functionality. With modern appliances and smart storage solutions, this room is now a hub of convenience for everyday chores. 3D Design and Design Guidelines: Our design team played a pivotal role in this project's success. Through meticulous 3D renderings and comprehensive design guidelines, they brought our client's vision to life. The ability to visualize the end result before construction began ensured a harmonious and well-planned layout, resulting in a space that seamlessly blends elegance and practicality. From Vision to Reality: At Levite Construction Co., we believe in turning dreams into reality. Our team worked tirelessly to blend innovation, functionality, and aesthetic appeal in every corner of this transformed space. The amalgamation of the powder room and storage room resulted in a Bathroom and Laundry Room that exceeded expectations. Client Satisfaction: The smiles on our clients' faces upon seeing their new space for the first time is what drives us forward. We are overjoyed that our work has not only met but surpassed their expectations, and we are proud to have played a role in enhancing their living environment. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our talented team, dedicated clients, and partners who collaborated with us on this remarkable journey. The success of every project is a reflection of our commitment to excellence and innovation in every project we undertake. Stay tuned for more exciting transformations from Levite Construction Co.! If you're looking to bring your construction or remodeling ideas to life, reach out to us today. Together, we can turn your vision into a masterpiece. #LeviteConstruction #ProjectCompletion #BathroomAndLaundryTransformation #InnovationInConstruction #BathroomDesignAndBuild #BathroomRemodeling

Our clients wanted to update their original mid century kitchen with a new, updated version. Walnut boxes with painted doors and drawer fronts was designed with Boomerang pulls to create that retro, but modern look. A huge island was designed so the family could eat dinner together in the kitchen. A long and tall wall of pantry storage was created, along with a small bench for sitting on to take shoes on and off and store grocery bags inside. Custom live-edge walnut shelves were used as storage and for the pony wall cap near the front entry. Large format textured tile was installed to limit grout, but bring in a unique, textural element to the backsplash. Mid century style lighting was installed above the sink and cloud-like pendants were hung high above the island for the tall clients to be able to see around and not bump their heads into. Our clients were truly thrilled with the finished project and have received many compliments on it's true to mid-century design.

We were thrilled to take on this whole home remodel for a growing family in Santa Monica. The home is a multi-level condominium. They were looking for a contemporary update. The living room offers a custom built mantel with entertainment center. The kitchen and bathrooms all have custom made cabinetry. Unique in this kitchen is the down draft. The border floor tile in the kid’s bathroom ties all of the green mosaic marble together. However, our favorite feature may be the fire pit which allows the homeowners to enjoy their patio all year long.

Our clients wanted to update their original mid century kitchen with a new, updated version. Walnut boxes with painted doors and drawer fronts was designed with Boomerang pulls to create that retro, but modern look. A huge island was designed so the family could eat dinner together in the kitchen. A long and tall wall of pantry storage was created, along with a small bench for sitting on to take shoes on and off and store grocery bags inside. Custom live-edge walnut shelves were used as storage and for the pony wall cap near the front entry. Large format textured tile was installed to limit grout, but bring in a unique, textural element to the backsplash. Mid century style lighting was installed above the sink and cloud-like pendants were hung high above the island for the tall clients to be able to see around and not bump their heads into. Our clients were truly thrilled with the finished project and have received many compliments on it's true to mid-century design.

The homeowners collaborated with Schulte Design Build to design and transform their kitchen into a more functional standout space for their family’s growing needs. This large multi-space was designed to be a light, open, and vibrant space for cooking, eating, and studying, as well as an easy place for family and friends to gather. The dark wood cabinets were replaced with ceiling-height white shaker cabinets, a long island was added to the length of the space, and the lighting was reconfigured to highlight the new task areas. A black countertop that now lines the walls to create contrast for the perimeter, while the new marble herringbone backsplash adds a unique spin on the traditional subway tile. The clients are thrilled with the results!

We are thrilled to highlight our recent installation of Garrison Parallels acoustic wall panels at the brand new showroom for Landivar Design, a renowned specialist in kitchen and bath design. Our premium Garrison Parallels collection showcases beautifully designed decorative wall and ceiling panels that are not only visually stunning but also feature high-quality acoustic properties. These panels provide effective sound absorption, ensuring a quieter, more pleasant environment. Garrison Parallels panels were carefully selected to complement the modern aesthetic of the Landivar Design showroom. The panels’ versatility allows them to be seamlessly installed on both walls and ceilings, creating a cohesive and stylish look throughout the space. The ease of installation ensures that the panels can be tailored to fit any unique design style, making them the perfect choice for a dynamic and sophisticated showroom. This installation not only elevates the showroom’s design but also showcases the practical benefits of acoustic wall panels, making it an exemplary project in our portfolio. The sleek design of the Garrison Parallels adds a touch of elegance and modernity, enhancing the overall look of the showroom. Additionally, the panels significantly reduce noise, creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere for clients and designers to collaborate. We are proud to have contributed to the success of Landivar Design’s new showroom, providing a stylish and functional solution that meets their high standards. Product Name: Warm Oak Collection: Parallels Brand: Garrison Collection Location: Los Angeles, CA

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

Jennifer Hazen from Reico Kitchen and Bath in Charlottesville, VA, collaborated with Nick Greenwood of Prevail Construction to create a transitional kitchen design featuring Merillat Masterpiece cabinetry. The kitchen’s perimeter cabinets feature the Montresano door style in a Moonshine finish, while the beverage bar and wall cabinets are in a Lagoon finish. The countertop is MSI Q Calacatta Miraggio Cielo. The kitchen also features a Whirlpool beverage refrigerator and an 18” full height quartz backsplash in the same color as the countertop for clean, continuous look and feel. The client, delighted with the project outcome, shared their experience. “Our project involved a complete demolition of four areas—our Kitchen, Bathroom, Pantry, and Laundry Room. These were all combined into one open space Kitchen area. Jennifer has excellent taste and skillfully recommended elements that seamlessly came together to create a functional, aesthetically pleasing kitchen. The level of detail that she put into the plan amazed me and it ensured that all of the contractors knew exactly what to do.” “We are extremely happy with the outcome of the kitchen. The open space is very functional and makes using our kitchen a joy. Thank you Reico and Jennifer for such a positive experience!” Jennifer shared insights into the labor of love behind the design, stating, “The most challenging part was concealing a full-size stackable washer/dryer within a run that included a double oven, a 36" refrigerator, and an unmovable wall due to water pipes. We bumped everything out to 36" to create a functional face-frame for laundry, double oven, and a 9" pantry.” During the planning stage, Jennifer expressed her excitement about the homeowners embracing unique design elements. "I was thrilled as the homeowners selecting design elements such as the full-height splash behind the range and the waterfall leg at the espresso bar bookcase." Photo courtesy of Tim Snyder.

This zen inspired vegetable garden is so beautiful and unique! Our customer was beyond thrilled when she was the final product, and so were we! Enter through the gate and guide yourself down the spiral path that lets you see and have access to every inch of the garden. There are so many veggies this family will be enjoying fresh harvests well into fall! The flowers planted around the garden on the outside of the fence provide so much vibrant color they definitely won't need to buy any store made bouquets this year! Frank Crandall

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Murals in a bedroom by Tom Taylor of Mural Art LLC. The theme for the room was to create the bridge of a star destroyer from Star Wars. Being a huge Star Wars fan myself, I was thrilled to have had the opportunity to create this room. Star Wars themed rooms have been very popular, especially with the new series of movies that Disney has produced. Star Wars art is perfect for any themed room, media room, home theater, office or your children's bedroom. Items featured throughout the room to complete the look: Exploding Death Star Chandelier, bunk bed, Star Wars comforter set, throw pillows, drapes, room darkening shades, table lamps, Star Wars toys and hand painted kids furniture.

The Design Team at The Elements is thrilled to partner with Mark Kiester and Unique Homes to present Home 1 for the Home Show Expo 2017 in The Estates on the Ridge development at Echo Valley in Norwalk. The home’s Arts and Crafts exterior belies an interior rich with a sophisticated mix of styles and textures. The warm finishes make this home instantly comfortable, and the fine craftsmanship mean many years of worry-free enjoyment in this incredible home. Photo by Mary Rose Timko, The Elements at Prairie Trail

A tiny home on Waiheke Island needed a staircase to access the loft that was not only a space-saving staircase, but also safe for guests to access. Additionally, the owner wanted a balustrade that required craftsmanship with intricate designs and a beach inspired style to match the interior design of this tiny home. The original design included a wooden staircase, however the owner wanted that replaced with steel stairs to save space. A spiral staircase was considered, but was still too big for what she wanted, which led us to design a ladder. Because the owner is an artist, she wanted a more unique balustrade design. This was quite a different style from our usual fabrications, but we welcomed the challenge. We then brought all the pieces to Waiheke Island and completed the installation in a day. The owner was thrilled with the end result and is now renting out the tiny home as holiday rentals.

Laundry rooms and mudrooms can be a headache for many homeowners. They are usually cramped with poor functionality and little storage space. Joe and Kristin suffered all those aches and more, as their laundry room lacked clothing storage. Shoes were crammed in every corner. There was nowhere to fold clothes without taking them to the kitchen. They were ready for a complete laundry room remodel project. Joe and Kristin interviewed several local remodeling companies but didn’t connect with anyone who could understand their vision. During the summer, when they were attending their son’s race venue, they noticed fellow kart racers Todd and Christine Jurs’ sponsor banner for their remodeling company, Advance Design Studio. Immediately they were thrilled that they knew someone they trusted who could handle the renovation. “We wanted someone that we actually knew, who has a little bit more invested than an outside person that we don’t have any ties to,” Kristin said. Project Designer Nicole Ryan came to their home in Warrenville for the initial consultation. Kristin, an avid HGTV viewer, brought her ideas to Nicole. Throughout the design process, they worked together designing the space, selecting materials, and choosing colors. Nicole made sure to incorporate Kristin’s must-haves into the finished laundry room remodel. “It was really easy. Nicole made the transition very easy,” Kristin said of Nicole’s work in the design phase of the project. With the materials selected and the drawings finalized, it was time to begin construction. Kristin and Joe were impressed with how quickly and cleanly this phase went. “Everyone that came in was very respectful, very neat, and that was a big part for me because I didn’t want dust going through the rest of my house,” Kristin said. The new combination mudroom/laundry room is everything Kristin and Joe hoped. There is plenty of storage, three pull-out laundry hampers for presorting laundry, a large central island for folding clothes, a designated bar to hang dry, and even a unique rotating shoe rack to keep shoes from cluttering the space. “My rotating shoe rack,” Kristin said when asked what her favorite part of her new laundry room was. “We have four kids. We have a lot of shoes and sporting events. So it makes sense to have all that space for shoes.” The center island has an exceptional feature as well. It has wheels. Kristin wanted to be able to move the island out of the way for different functions in the room. An island with wheels can be placed wherever needed in the space. The two existing closets were reconfigured with built-in closet storage systems to make them more functional than before with shelves for baskets holding gloves and hats, umbrellas, and coats. “They love it,” Project Designer Nicole Ryan said. “They had a vision of how they wanted the space to function but didn’t know exactly how to get it there. My design took all their needs and used the most efficient products to get them the desired outcome. Tons of function, while still looking beautiful!” The “White” Hudson Panel Dura Supreme cabinetry on the perimeter brightens the space and contrasts the popular blue “Gale Force” Dura Supreme cabinetry of the rolling island. The black and white encaustic design porcelain tile backsplash adds visual interest to the room above the white quartz countertops. Additionally, an oil-rubbed bronze bar for hanging clothes is conveniently located above the washer/dryer, and a stainless-steel under-mount sink with a matching Kohler faucet offers perfect functionality. “I would definitely recommend Advance Design; they’ve been wonderful. They were so helpful. Any little changes we had, they were able to accommodate,” Kristin said.

Two totally refreshed bathroom remodels take center stage in this St. Louis Park home. The homeowners loved their 1968 split level home and its unique period features. It was a well-built custom home with gorgeous maple trim and oak floors throughout. However, the main bathroom had water damage to the sub-floor that needed to be replaced. The owners decided to go ahead and update the rest of the bathroom at the same time, taking care of other items they had long wanted to do. For example, the plumbing was outdated, and the shower didn’t drain well. They also hoped for a wood vanity that would match the rest of the home, in look and era, and wished the previous homeowners hadn’t painted the original. As the couple discussed the remodel, they ultimately decided to take the plunge and take advantage of work being done in the home and update both the main floor bathroom and the master bathroom at the same time. Tackling both projects at once made sense for project efficiency, both in time and budget, and they are thrilled to now each have “their own” new bathroom!

We were thrilled to take on this whole home remodel for a growing family in Santa Monica. The home is a multi-level condominium. They were looking for a contemporary update. The living room offers a custom built mantel with entertainment center. The kitchen and bathrooms all have custom made cabinetry. Unique in this kitchen is the down draft. The border floor tile in the kid’s bathroom ties all of the green mosaic marble together. However, our favorite feature may be the fire pit which allows the homeowners to enjoy their patio all year long.