This Inner Suburban Cottage is located in Tighes Hill, Newcastle, formerly an industrial area but due to it's proximity to the city is now becoming popular with young families and professionals seeking the inner city lifestyle. The client brief was to replace a rundown two bedroom miners cottage with a modern home for a family of three children and two adults on a 320sqm corner block. The design solution delivered the main house containing open living, dining, kitchen, three bedrooms, main bathroom, laundry and double garage. The large parents retreat comprising of a combined spacious bedroom, lounge and sitting area, seperate kitchen and generous ensuite is located above the double garage, connects to the house via an internal stairway and features a separate entrance to enable the space to be utilised as self-contained guest lodging. The street front facade reflects the original miners cottage with weatherboards, front porch and skillion roof while beyond the street frontage, a stylish transition to finishes such as Colorbond Nail Strip cladding and timber paneling relfect the contemporary style of the young family. Passive solar design was incorporated with north-oriented living, dining, kitchen areas featuring polished concrete slab for thermal mass. Cross-ventilation has been incorporated into the design with strategic window placement throughout. The seamless transition from indoor living areas to covered outdoor entertaining area is achieved through the polished concrete slab continuing from indoors to outdoors, at one level and large sliding stacker doors with screens.

The Smith’s hired us to do several home improvement projects to the exterior of their house, which were inspired by two other homes in the neighborhood. To start, they were looking to add a front porch with a more prominent entrance, as well as a garage eyebrow. In addition, since they were also not happy with the color of their home’s stucco or brick, we were asked to design a new color palette which would utilize the new window color, while also reducing the focus of the stucco. With that, since the homeowners were concerned about efficiency and making sure the house was properly maintained, they requested new windows, as well as new gutters, downspouts, and covers. Their siding was also an issue since a large portion of it had started to rot and since the rear sunroom and deck had sunk 4+ inches, structural issues were also a problem. Our Process: In an effort to create the pleasing exterior that was requested, we reached out to an architectural team member who helped us envision a four color paint palette. We installed a rustic cedar porch post, craftsman-style shutters, and metal roof details for a very pleasing result. As requested, we also installed all-new windows throughout the home and replaced their gutters, downspouts, and covers, as well as the siding that had rotted away. Since their deck was improperly installed, we removed the old sun room and deck footings, and poured new ones. However, I was not comfortable fixing the issue without knowing the cause, so upon closer inspection, we discovered that water from the neighbor’s house, the driveway, and the Smith’s roof was causing drainage issues. To fix the problem, we installed two main underground drainage lines which would divert water away from the home. From there, we were able to bring both structures to level heights where they could be properly secured and as a finishing touch, we added new tile to the sunroom to give it a more rustic feel. As a result of the drainage issues, a large section of the driveway had sunk as well, so we removed the concrete and poured it with proper underlayment, rebar, stronger concrete, and a proper pitch. Extras: While working at the home, the owners asked us to install a new wood-burning fireplace, as well as a new front door and an exhaust fan in the master bathroom. In addition, since we overheard the homeowner say that they wanted to be able to park their car in the garage, we made a point to organize it for them so there was adequate space for a vehicle. Result: The Smith’s had originally found us on Houzz.com and were incredibly pleased with our quality of work, as well as our ability to stay within their budget and stick to a set timeline. Not only did they give us an excellent review, but hugs were given upon our final goodbye as well. It was a great day.

This Inner Suburban Cottage is located in Tighes Hill, Newcastle, formerly an industrial area but due to it's proximity to the city is now becoming popular with young families and professionals seeking the inner city lifestyle. The client brief was to replace a rundown two bedroom miners cottage with a modern home for a family of three children and two adults on a 320sqm corner block. The design solution delivered the main house containing open living, dining, kitchen, three bedrooms, main bathroom, laundry and double garage. The large parents retreat comprising of a combined spacious bedroom, lounge and sitting area, seperate kitchen and generous ensuite is located above the double garage, connects to the house via an internal stairway and features a separate entrance to enable the space to be utilised as self-contained guest lodging. The street front facade reflects the original miners cottage with weatherboards, front porch and skillion roof while beyond the street frontage, a stylish transition to finishes such as Colorbond Nail Strip cladding and timber paneling relfect the contemporary style of the young family. Passive solar design was incorporated with north-oriented living, dining, kitchen areas featuring polished concrete slab for thermal mass. Cross-ventilation has been incorporated into the design with strategic window placement throughout. The seamless transition from indoor living areas to covered outdoor entertaining area is achieved through the polished concrete slab continuing from indoors to outdoors, at one level and large sliding stacker doors with screens.

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours The design goal was to produce a corporate or family retreat that could best utilize the uniqueness and seclusion as the only private residence, deep-water hammock directly assessable via concrete bridge in the Southeastern United States. Little Hawkins Island was seven years in the making from design and permitting through construction and punch out. The multiple award winning design was inspired by Spanish Colonial architecture with California Mission influences and developed for the corporation or family who entertains. With 5 custom fireplaces, 75+ palm trees, fountain, courtyards, and extensive use of covered outdoor spaces; Little Hawkins Island is truly a Resort Residence that will easily accommodate parties of 250 or more people. The concept of a “village” was used to promote movement among 4 independent buildings for residents and guests alike to enjoy the year round natural beauty and climate of the Golden Isles. The architectural scale and attention to detail throughout the campus is exemplary. From the heavy mud set Spanish barrel tile roof to the monolithic solid concrete portico with its’ custom carved cartouche at the entrance, every opportunity was seized to match the style and grace of the best properties built in a bygone era.

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours The design goal was to produce a corporate or family retreat that could best utilize the uniqueness and seclusion as the only private residence, deep-water hammock directly assessable via concrete bridge in the Southeastern United States. Little Hawkins Island was seven years in the making from design and permitting through construction and punch out. The multiple award winning design was inspired by Spanish Colonial architecture with California Mission influences and developed for the corporation or family who entertains. With 5 custom fireplaces, 75+ palm trees, fountain, courtyards, and extensive use of covered outdoor spaces; Little Hawkins Island is truly a Resort Residence that will easily accommodate parties of 250 or more people. The concept of a “village” was used to promote movement among 4 independent buildings for residents and guests alike to enjoy the year round natural beauty and climate of the Golden Isles. The architectural scale and attention to detail throughout the campus is exemplary. From the heavy mud set Spanish barrel tile roof to the monolithic solid concrete portico with its’ custom carved cartouche at the entrance, every opportunity was seized to match the style and grace of the best properties built in a bygone era.

Our client hired us to renovate their yard that had an old patio that was installed incorrectly years previous. They wanted as maintenance free as possible but with a definite budget in mind. Lastly, they wanted to begin to grow a lot of vegetables at home and therefore wanted some raised cedar planters to suit their needs. We utilized rundle for the bedding areas and concrete edges for ease of maintaining the property in their retirement years. Great project!!

Solus contemporary drinks ring/table accessory for the Hemi fire bowl shown here at Predator Ridge resort, BC, Canada. Hemi fire bowl available in sizes 26" 36" and 48" The Solus thin elegant profile adds an artistic architectural element to any outdoor space. At 16.5” ( 415mm ) tall, the fire bowl creates an instant gathering place, providing warmth and atmosphere for relaxed conversation, al fresco dining or having outdoor time with the family ( kids love it ! ). The standard Fire pit Hemi 36 is available with a natural gas/lp or bio fuel burner. We offer manual lit and electronic ignition which produces substantial heat for any outdoor space. Should it be a requirement for a residence, hotel or restaurant an additional glass protective shield can be ordered. The Firebowl Hemi 36 is available in 10 Solus High Performance Concrete colours. Solus has also designed a custom hardwood table top and all metal tops which can be utilized on those days that you need a table and not a roaring fire. An all weather cover custom fabricated for Solus is an option which greatly extends the warranty of all Solus fire pits.

This backyard got a major upgrade - we started with a clean slate: removed queen palms + citrus trees, cleared select plants, moved existing granite to the side, handled grading, and took care of hauling/dumping so the new layout could shine. Then we brought the “outdoor kitchen goals” to life: ✅ Gas + electric utilities trenched and run to the BBQ area ✅ Irrigation updates for a healthier, cleaner system ✅ The centerpiece: a 15’ BBQ island with a backsplash + stainless setup — Travertine top + Turbo 4 grill, Ooni pizza oven, charcoal grill, griddle — Access door, utensil drawer, install kit — Finished with stucco + paint surround — Deco tile backsplash + turndown for a polished custom look ✅ Concrete pavers expanded the entertainment footprint — BBQ patio + walkway to the garden area + filled in patio space near the garden ✅ Desert-fresh finishing touches — 6 tons of ½” screened Mad Gold granite — New plant palette: 3 tall accent trees, 15 five-gallon plants, plus 2 citrus trees ✅ Lighting ✨ ✅ And the comfort-maker: Alumawood shade structure End result: a true Peoria entertaining hub—shade, lighting, pavers, and a kitchen setup that’s ready for BBQ nights and pizza parties. ??

Great curb appeal, low maintenance, and cost effective was our marching orders on this project. We designed a nice and clean looking yard that has lots of Wow! factor and is easy to maintain. Our client wanted a secure walkway from front to back but one that is easy on the wallet. Utilizing man-made stone steps and retaining systems we were easily able to build that for them. We also added a cedar privacy screen under the walkout deck that is louvered so they can open or close it depending on the circumstances.

Our client hired us to renovate their yard that had an old patio that was installed incorrectly years previous. They wanted as maintenance free as possible but with a definite budget in mind. Lastly, they wanted to begin to grow a lot of vegetables at home and therefore wanted some raised cedar planters to suit their needs. We utilized rundle for the bedding areas and concrete edges for ease of maintaining the property in their retirement years. Great project!!

Together with our client, the project goal was to creatively transform an under-utilized rear garden using architectural cues and personal detailing to develop a cohesive material enriched design with multiple focal points and uniquely placed vegetation. Taking advantage of the mature vegetation, bamboo fencing and existing hot tub, we had the opportunity to design and create integrated lounging and seating. We enhanced the garden's multiple focal points by importing hand-selected rockery, specimen trees, cascading evergreens, and groups of perennials. Each rock was rotated numerous times to expose the best face and right pitch to ensure the stones' sun, shade, and patterns were all highlighted. With the addition of an open-sided pergola and raised deck along with side projections, we were able to integrate the limbs of an existing majestic Japanese Maple creating the perfect location to lounge, drink a morning coffee or entertain while gazing back at unique architecture and at-grade hot tub. The hot tub buried in the ground is surrounded by dark oiled cedar decking and edged by a concrete patio, large stepping slabs and raised planter. The mixture of wood, concrete and greenery was a great contrast of natural finishes seamlessly blended by elongated trim boards and intentional lines. Staining the fence framing black and oiling the bamboo added the final fresh touches this garden needed connecting these new spaces from the entrance gate to the BBQ and dining patio.

Our client gave us the go ahead to "do what we do" having seen our portfolio. So this is what we did..... One of our most creative grade changes to date utilizing multiple products from Ideal Concrete and weathered boulders from the property. The goal was to create a space that fit in to the unique architecture of the house yet appears to have always been there. We specialize in natural outdoor spaces with a niche for landform design. https://youtu.be/FB7SsIR671E

2018 HNA Awards Honorable Mention - Concrete Paver - Commercial (size more than 15,000 sf) Contractor: B&D Contractors Inc. Producer: Keystone Hardscapes Designer: OJB Landscape Architects Once modest and tucked away off a dead end road, Levy Park received a revitalization to re-engage the local community. CityStone, Holland, Roman Cobble and Verona pavers were chosen in the design to help separate different areas of the park, add a sense of playfulness and accentuate natural features. The transformation included native landscaping, interactive water features, a dog park, garden, park pavilion and children’s play area. Pavers helped create and define each of these spaces through use of colors, shapes and inlay patterns. Variegated and whimsical paver patterns invoke a sense of spirited movement and fun. The use of multiple paver shapes, colors, and upgraded textures added depth and beauty to this cunningly conceived urban space, by accenting native grass areas and designating different park sections. The central grand walkways gracefully arc throughout the space with large plank style pavers, creating a modern boardwalk feel. Recognizing the park’s development history dating back to 1941, incorporating new design elements while maintaining original aspects was important to the redesign. The chosen pavers were able to integrate with the longstanding historical elements, while adding an artful refresh to the park. A local resident stated, “This is hands down the most gorgeous and well-designed park I’ve ever seen. I fell in love the second I stepped foot into it.” Through thoughtful design and paver choices utilizing different shapes, colors and textures, Levy Park is now a community hot spot.

Our client hired us to renovate their yard that had an old patio that was installed incorrectly years previous. They wanted as maintenance free as possible but with a definite budget in mind. Lastly, they wanted to begin to grow a lot of vegetables at home and therefore wanted some raised cedar planters to suit their needs. We utilized rundle for the bedding areas and concrete edges for ease of maintaining the property in their retirement years. Great project!!

Together with our client, the project goal was to creatively transform an under-utilized rear garden using architectural cues and personal detailing to develop a cohesive material enriched design with multiple focal points and uniquely placed vegetation. Taking advantage of the mature vegetation, bamboo fencing and existing hot tub, we had the opportunity to design and create integrated lounging and seating. We enhanced the garden's multiple focal points by importing hand-selected rockery, specimen trees, cascading evergreens, and groups of perennials. Each rock was rotated numerous times to expose the best face and right pitch to ensure the stones' sun, shade, and patterns were all highlighted. With the addition of an open-sided pergola and raised deck along with side projections, we were able to integrate the limbs of an existing majestic Japanese Maple creating the perfect location to lounge, drink a morning coffee or entertain while gazing back at unique architecture and at-grade hot tub. The hot tub buried in the ground is surrounded by dark oiled cedar decking and edged by a concrete patio, large stepping slabs and raised planter. The mixture of wood, concrete and greenery was a great contrast of natural finishes seamlessly blended by elongated trim boards and intentional lines. Staining the fence framing black and oiling the bamboo added the final fresh touches this garden needed connecting these new spaces from the entrance gate to the BBQ and dining patio.

Great curb appeal, low maintenance, and cost effective was our marching orders on this project. We designed a nice and clean looking yard that has lots of Wow! factor and is easy to maintain. Our client wanted a secure walkway from front to back but one that is easy on the wallet. Utilizing man-made stone steps and retaining systems we were easily able to build that for them. We also added a cedar privacy screen under the walkout deck that is louvered so they can open or close it depending on the circumstances.

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.

Our client hired us to renovate their yard that had an old patio that was installed incorrectly years previous. They wanted as maintenance free as possible but with a definite budget in mind. Lastly, they wanted to begin to grow a lot of vegetables at home and therefore wanted some raised cedar planters to suit their needs. We utilized rundle for the bedding areas and concrete edges for ease of maintaining the property in their retirement years. Great project!!

2018 HNA Awards Honorable Mention - Concrete Paver - Commercial (size more than 15,000 sf) Contractor: B&D Contractors Inc. Producer: Keystone Hardscapes Designer: OJB Landscape Architects Once modest and tucked away off a dead end road, Levy Park received a revitalization to re-engage the local community. CityStone, Holland, Roman Cobble and Verona pavers were chosen in the design to help separate different areas of the park, add a sense of playfulness and accentuate natural features. The transformation included native landscaping, interactive water features, a dog park, garden, park pavilion and children’s play area. Pavers helped create and define each of these spaces through use of colors, shapes and inlay patterns. Variegated and whimsical paver patterns invoke a sense of spirited movement and fun. The use of multiple paver shapes, colors, and upgraded textures added depth and beauty to this cunningly conceived urban space, by accenting native grass areas and designating different park sections. The central grand walkways gracefully arc throughout the space with large plank style pavers, creating a modern boardwalk feel. Recognizing the park’s development history dating back to 1941, incorporating new design elements while maintaining original aspects was important to the redesign. The chosen pavers were able to integrate with the longstanding historical elements, while adding an artful refresh to the park. A local resident stated, “This is hands down the most gorgeous and well-designed park I’ve ever seen. I fell in love the second I stepped foot into it.” Through thoughtful design and paver choices utilizing different shapes, colors and textures, Levy Park is now a community hot spot.