This remodel addressed issues including peeling vinyl flooring, outdated fixtures, and safety hazards due to deferred maintenance. Challenges included: sourcing budget-sensitive materials with a high-end feel; slip-resistant hexagon floor tiles; a new pedestal sink; a water-saving toilet; and a larger medicine cabinet, while correcting code violations. Universal Design created an open floor plan, low-maintenance finishes, zero-threshold entries into the bathroom and shower, in addition to highly-contrasting materials, grab bars with blocking, accessible towel bars for user convenience, and dimmable lighting with anti-glare trim. We combined modern materials for a noir style and universal functionality for our aging-in-place clients and their forever home.

Architect: Cheryl O'Brien Firm: C. O'Brien Architects Inc. Photo Credit: Lex Wainwright All images appearing in the C. O'Brien Architects Inc. web site are the exclusive property of Cheryl A. O'Brien and are protected under the United States and International Copyright laws. The images may not be reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without the written permission of Cheryl A. O'Brien. Use of any image as the basis for another photographic concept or illustration (digital, artist rendering or alike) is a violation of the United States and International Copyright laws. All images are copyrighted © 2001 - 2014 Cheryl A. O'Brien.

Transitional master white tile bathroom photo in Orange County with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets and gray walls

Marengo Morton Architects, Inc. in La Jolla, CA, specializes in Coastal Development Permits, Master Planning, Multi-Family, Residential, Commercial, Restaurant, Hospitality, Development, Code Violations, Forensics and Construction Management.

Marengo Morton Architects, Inc. in La Jolla, CA, specializes in Coastal Development Permits, Master Planning, Multi-Family, Residential, Commercial, Restaurant, Hospitality, Development, Code Violations, Forensics and Construction Management.

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

Inspiration for a timeless exterior home remodel in Los Angeles

This 10,000 sf townhouse sits on one of Manhattan’s most beautiful Upper East Side streets and so the goal of the project was to return the house to its original grandeur. Previously a Kips Bay designer showcase house, the rooms were each designed in a differing style and therefore the lack of cohesion and flow made the house seem choppy. In addition, much of the interior was superficial in the sense that plumbing fixtures were not all connected, walls were “false walls” built in front of existing and much of the construction had to be rebuilt. The scope included creating a large gourmet kitchen in the rear of the ground floor by closing off the winding corridor and creating a new door opening centered on the main entry hall with a paneled arched pocket door mimicking the original detailing of the parlor floor. The kitchen has a Calacatta Gold stone center island and dinning area flanked by counters that run the length of the east and west walls with glass front upper cabinets. A built-in buffet on the south wall anchors the space. A mud room, with access to the delivery entrance and additional storage space was added off the kitchen. A new slim profile steel and glass French door provides access to a new steel rear deck and stairs to the rear yard. On the second floor, a new tile floor was added throughout and RRA designed new stone mantle pieces fabricated from England in the living and dining rooms. On the 3rd floor, a new wall was constructed in the 11’ wide central hallway to allow a new 135 sf master closet with custom designed built-in storage units and accessories. This concept was carried through to the 4th floor on a smaller scale and 4 new storage closets were added in the hallway. The existing bathroom on the 4th Floor was gutted and redesigned including a new 5’x5’ extra deep soaking tub and new fixtures. Silver travertine tiles were used throughout to give the room a durable, waterproof finish while also providing a warm, luxurious feel. The 5th floor was converted into a playroom and TV room for the family’s two young children and was outfitted with chalkboard paint along the entire east wall in the play area and a bold color block wall treatment in the TV room. A new cork floor was installed for durability and resilience to lots of activity yet providing a soft and sustainable floor treatment for its intended user. A full laundry room was also created floor with new cabinetry, plumbing, and floor and wall tile. Additionally, 3 full baths and a powder room were refitted with tumbled travertine tiles on the top two floors. The exterior of the building was refurbished and new lighting and painted doors and frames were installed in accordance with Landmark designation. An additional challenge on the project was that a previously built extension on the PH level was illegally overbuilt and the property had received a violation. A 9 month process of filing drawings, completing zoning analyses and meetings with the DOB Commissioners ensued to get the extension approved allowing us to obtain a permit for the remainder of the work and complete the Certificate of Occupancy. In spite of the complex process and scattered program, the completed townhouse has a cohesive aesthetic throughout, with upgraded amenities befitting this grand representation of elite New York living.

Britain Way Apartments, located at 333 Lane St. in Irving, has reborn with a fresh rejuvenated appeal. Built in 1962, the original development structure had been noticeably deteriorating in recent years. It had limited amenities, 17 repetitive, monotonous buildings with dull colors and obsolete mansard roofs in dilapidated condition. There was poor on-site drainage and lighting, no perimeter fencing, and several city code violations were recorded in prior years. The Developer’s mission was to convert this dated project into a high quality, eco-friendly, modern, and affordable housing community for the citizens of Irving. After the remodel was completed, enhanced features include visually pleasing facades using heavy stone accents and sloping roofs, and lush landscaping distributed throughout the site. Additional improvements include expanded kitchen areas with upgraded interior amenities and energy efficient appliances; second bathrooms added to select two- and three-bedroom units; a brand-new spacious clubhouse and community center was provided; pool and picnic areas and an on-site resident activities coordinator to lead an abundance of community services provided to residents at no extra cost. Strategic partnerships, with community-based organizations, local volunteer groups and non-profits offer lifestyle and learning activities such as arts and crafts and after-school reading and tutoring for children, computer classes, lifestyle enrichment classes, nutrition classes and aquatic activities for children and adults. Britain Way is the first LEED Gold Certified affordable multifamily community in the city of Irving. LEED certification ensures the property will be healthier and safer for residents in addition to providing lower utility expenses, as well as, conserving energy and water. Obtaining LEED Gold Certification for a 60-year-old project was a herculean effort. Further enhancing the project’s resident quality of life initiatives, the new, stylish Britain Way is designed per implementing “Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design” (CPTED) requirements. Among several other updates, the property was made safer by adding perimeter fencing and increasing lighting levels throughout the site. To tour Britain Way or for more information on availability of this apartment community or any other available properties, please visit www.omhousing.com or https://www.britainwayapts.com/ This Home of the Week is presented by the Dallas Builders Association. For information on the Association please visit www.dallasbuilders.com.

The covered patio has loads of customizations. To start, we built a custom outdoor dining table made of glass, tigerwood, and stainless steel. The outdoor kitchen features a Bull grill and a honed granite counter. A fiber cement alcove was designed to house the television and is flanked by tigerwood privacy walls with cool cut outs that hide LED lights and floating granite shelves to display accessories. There is a ceiling fan for added comfort, pendant lights above the dining table and track lighting in the kitchen and living areas.

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

Despite being in the middle of the home's first floor, the kitchen felt cut off from the rest of the house. By removing the end wall by the foyer, removing the code violating ducting on the dining room side and lifting up the header over the eating bar, the kitchen was given equal billing with the other spaces on the first floor. The gray cabinetry with stainless steel accents provide a neutral backdrop for the homeowners' McKenzie Childs collectables. Photo Courtesy WestSound Home and Garden by Iklil Gregg

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

Tileware Bathroom Fixtures - Promessa Series Rectangular Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 6 1/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 10 1/2" length x 5 1/4" width x 4" depth Triangle Corner Soap Basket available in 3 sizes Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 2 1/4" depth Dimensions 7 3/4" length x 4 7/8" width x 1 3/8" depth Dimensions 13 3/4" length x 8" width x 5" depth Combination Basket Shampoo Soap Basket Dimensions 17 7/8" length x 3 1/2" width x 3" depth Available in 3 Finish In stock - Ship Same Day Solid brass basket, brazed construction FlooringSupplyShop.com is pleased to introduce an installation system designed and engineered specifically for tile mechanics from Tileware. Traditional hardware installation requires drilling, compromising tile installations. Now, with the PermaTile™ System, tile mechanics have a clear advantage: a simple installation system that adds value to the tile professional PermaTile™ Fasteners The first non-penetrating, non-intrusive tile fastening system This high quality, stainless steel fastening component will attach with unprecedented strength to wall surfaces with latex modified mortar. This system provides a solution that is simple and measurably strong. PermaTile™ Systems will end unnecessary damages resulting from drilling finished tile work. • Will not violate waterproofing, plumbing or wiring no more drilling • Mortar-based fastening system • Non-corrosive stainless steel fastener • Over 10X the strength of standard fastener • Tested by TCNA (Tile Council of North America) • Designed specifically for tile applications by tile installers • Will work with all standard tile products and thicknesses • Designed specifically for tile professionals • Encourages quick turnaround where shelving is required • Eliminates failures resulting from drilling into completed tile work - such as puncturing waterproofing, tile breakage, plumbing and wiring intrusions • Eliminates the need for wood blocking behind the wall • Installation can occur within the body of a tile or a grout joint • Basket mounting can occur immediately after grouting - no special trips • Learn how to install in minutes • No special tools required our store open to the public 5047 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles CA 90016 Mon - Fri 7:00 am - 5:00pm Sunday 8:00 - 12:00 pm

This remodel addressed issues including peeling vinyl flooring, outdated fixtures, and safety hazards due to deferred maintenance. Challenges included: sourcing budget-sensitive materials with a high-end feel; slip-resistant hexagon floor tiles; a new pedestal sink; a water-saving toilet; and a larger medicine cabinet, while correcting code violations. Universal Design created an open floor plan, low-maintenance finishes, zero-threshold entries into the bathroom and shower, in addition to highly-contrasting materials, grab bars with blocking, accessible towel bars for user convenience, and dimmable lighting with anti-glare trim. We combined modern materials for a noir style and universal functionality for our aging-in-place clients and their forever home.

Architect: Cheryl O'Brien Firm: C. O'Brien Architects Inc. Photo Credit: Lex Wainwright All images appearing in the C. O'Brien Architects Inc. web site are the exclusive property of Cheryl A. O'Brien and are protected under the United States and International Copyright laws. The images may not be reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without the written permission of Cheryl A. O'Brien. Use of any image as the basis for another photographic concept or illustration (digital, artist rendering or alike) is a violation of the United States and International Copyright laws. All images are copyrighted © 2001 - 2014 Cheryl A. O'Brien.

Please note: Chandeliers are not to be hung above bath tubs per code; this homeowner signed off on the code violation. If you are going to install this yourself, please make sure you do not touch any electricity in the proximity of water!

A new cabin on this property overlooking Sugar Lake near Annandale, Minnesota, was built in place of an old cabin. The existing cabin was in desperate need of some major maintenance and updating, however due to a number of issues and problems, it seemed like a compelling case for a total rebuild. Therefore, to design a new cabin, a number of important considerations had to be made. Most importantly, the cabin orientation to the lake. To take advantage of the best views, the original cabin was sited diagonally with respect to its lot. However, as the result parts of the cabin was non-conforming! Meaning, it was intruding into the lot setbacks, violating the local zoning requirements. To address this concern and to maintain the desired sights and views of the lake, the architect approached the problem by introducing a system of layers at the exterior walls, to expose the views, seamlessly to the cabin's interior. This approach was the basis for the design concept and the exterior architecture. The open floor plan, extended the views throughout the interior spaces and provided ample natural lighting by utilizing a number of windows, located strategically. Another concern with the old cabin was about flooding and water intrusion. The architect observed the existing grades and by elevating the new cabin and proper grading around the new cabin, not only solved the drainage issue, he introduced the opportunity for daylight windows in the new basement. The new windows also provided the means of egress and addition living space, as the result. The homeowners were also concerned about the afternoon sun and how the old Maple tree which had to be removed earlier provide much needed shade during the afternoon. The design addressed that issue by adopting deeper eaves and overhang around the perimeter, including the gable ends and utilizing roof eyebrows, as architectural elements.