Photo by Matchbook Productions - back yard patio and walkway using stamped concrete in vermont slate pattern with a cool gray and dark charcoal color; great use of furniture to create a flow on large patio; dining tables, couches and umbrellas are perfect for the area; the only shade is provided by the house since there are no trees in back yard; umbrellas are necessary to protect from the hot sun; great entertainment space

Artfully crafted, this narrow pool boasts twin cascading waterfalls that infuse serenity into its ambiance. The pool's sleek design optimizes its space, while the generous sun shelf offers a comfortable lounging spot. Enveloping the pool, the expansive screen enclosure strikes a balance between openness and seclusion, creating an intimate oasis protected from the elements. Amidst the gentle sounds of flowing water, this setting invites moments of respite, whether for a refreshing swim, leisurely basking on the sun shelf, or unwinding within the sanctuary of the enclosure. Plaster finish: Midnight Blue with Abalone Shell Tile: NPT GST Blue - NVB370025 Grout: Dove Grey Coping - Shark Tooth

Photo by Matchbook Productions - back yard patio and walkway using stamped concrete in vermont slate pattern with a cool gray and dark charcoal color; great use of furniture to create a flow on large patio; dining tables, couches and umbrellas are perfect for the area; the only shade is provided by the house since there are no trees in back yard; umbrellas are necessary to protect from the hot sun; great entertainment space

Artfully crafted, this narrow pool boasts twin cascading waterfalls that infuse serenity into its ambiance. The pool's sleek design optimizes its space, while the generous sun shelf offers a comfortable lounging spot. Enveloping the pool, the expansive screen enclosure strikes a balance between openness and seclusion, creating an intimate oasis protected from the elements. Amidst the gentle sounds of flowing water, this setting invites moments of respite, whether for a refreshing swim, leisurely basking on the sun shelf, or unwinding within the sanctuary of the enclosure. Plaster finish: Midnight Blue with Abalone Shell Tile: NPT GST Blue - NVB370025 Grout: Dove Grey Coping - Shark Tooth

For home renovations and remodeling projects, Best Electrical Company is the Orange County electrical contractor you can count on to help you with your interior lighting project. Whether you are looking for modern light fixtures, recessed lighting, track lighting, or ceiling fan installation, our expert Orange County lighting contractors will provide you with Service At Its Best. Our team of expert Anaheim lighting technicians will help integrate a beautiful and functional lighting design that will bring light and life to your home. We are available for electrical safety inspections, electrical wiring installation and lighting installation for new houses and home additions as well, ensuring the whole project comes together smoothly. Contact BEC today to discuss your interior lighting design, and allow us to install your lights and ceiling fans with precision and ease.

Photo by Matchbook Productions - back yard patio and walkway using stamped concrete in vermont slate pattern with a cool gray and dark charcoal color; great use of furniture to create a flow on large patio; dining tables, couches and umbrellas are perfect for the area; the only shade is provided by the house since there are no trees in back yard; umbrellas are necessary to protect from the hot sun; great entertainment space

Stunning white and blue kitchen remodel - complete with arabesque backsplash behind the induction cooktop and textured backsplash running the full height of the wall behind the kitchen sink and coffee bar area. Set of Bosch appliances including coffee station and wall ovens. Beautiful Cambria quartz countertops in Portrush with a waterfall edge on the island. Island cabinets are a deep blue to match the veining in the countertops. Tons of storage, cabinets protected with drip trays and other custom features in the kitchen and mud room. (Not pictured, but also part of this project: fireplace with built-ins, pantry storage shelving, and half bathroom.) Engineered hardwood from Mannington throughout the main floor living areas.

This spectacular entryway for the Hayden, Idaho, custom estate acts as a technical architectural bridge. By integrating specialized artisan millwork with advanced smart-home connectivity and complex climate engineering, we’ve created a high-performance first impression that sets the standard for the entire residence. High-Performance Architecture: Custom Entry & Smart Integration This entryway serves as a technical showcase, blending rustic artisan craftsmanship with high-capacity environmental control. We engineered this high-volume space to function as a thermal and visual bridge, leveraging specialized Knotty Alder millwork and advanced construction techniques to prepare visitors for the complexity found deeper in the home (like the 18-head steam suite!). Technical & Artisan Highlights: Custom Aagesen Millworks Door: The focal point is the substantial, hand-crafted Knotty Alder entry door, fabricated by Aagesen Millworks. We integrated a large upper-glass panel featuring a custom "raindrop" texture for immediate architectural interest and privacy, setting an artisan tone for the entire residence. Complex Fenestration Matrix: We engineered this wall with a sophisticated array of matching side-lights and a spectacular semicircular transom window. This complex framing assembly requires precise geometry and structural integration to ensure maximum daylight infiltration while maintaining high-efficiency environmental performance. Architectural Woodwork Integration: The entry door and windows are anchored by a continuous, massive Knotty Alder header and casing assembly. Note the thick, rustic cross-header that bridges the central opening, creating a robust, unified archway that emphasizes the vaulting architecture. Invisible HVAC Integration: To handle the significant volume of this vaulted space, we installed an invisible thermostat-controlled radiant heating system beneath the large-format dark grey tile. This provides consistent, "cold-spot-free" warmth across the entire floor plan. (Note the technical complexity required to fit the baseboard registers into the substantial wood base). Smart Security & Continuity: This entry features integrated high-end dark bronze security and locking hardware (visible on the right-hand jamb), providing professional-grade protection. We ensured design continuity by utilizing the same rustic wood tones and heavy-gauge bronze that are echoed on the specialized DTV plumbing controls in the master en-suite.

A symphony of sophistication, this geometrically shaped pool stands as a contemporary marvel. Its raised spa, adorned with shimmering glass tiles, offers a visual spectacle that transcends ordinary luxury. A sun shelf beckons for leisurely lounging, while travertine coping enhances both aesthetics and functionality. Embracing this aquatic haven, a sleek screen enclosure strikes a harmonious chord between openness and protection, creating an inviting oasis shielded from the elements. Whether indulging in the spa's tranquility, soaking in sunlit relaxation, or taking a refreshing plunge, this space weaves together design, comfort, and elegance, offering a refined retreat for all seasons. Plaster Finish: Blue Pearl Pool Tile: NPT SQZ Grey Grout: Beach Glass Spa Tile: NPT ECD Aqua Coping: Travertine Ivory 12"x12" Deck: Belgard Lafitt Grana Slab Napoli

Stunning white and blue kitchen remodel - complete with arabesque backsplash behind the induction cooktop and textured backsplash running the full height of the wall behind the kitchen sink and coffee bar area. Set of Bosch appliances including coffee station and wall ovens. Beautiful Cambria quartz countertops in Portrush with a waterfall edge on the island. Island cabinets are a deep blue to match the veining in the countertops. Tons of storage, cabinets protected with drip trays and other custom features in the kitchen and mud room. (Not pictured, but also part of this project: fireplace with built-ins, pantry storage shelving, and half bathroom.) Engineered hardwood from Mannington throughout the main floor living areas.

Stunning white and blue remodel - complete with arabesque backsplash behind the induction cooktop in the kitchen and laundry room, and textured backsplash running the full height of the wall behind the kitchen sink and coffee bar area. Beautiful Cambria quartz countertops in Portrush with a waterfall edge on the island. Island cabinets are a deep blue to match the veining in the countertops. Tons of storage, cabinets protected with drip trays and other custom features in the kitchen and laundry room. (Not pictured, but also part of this project: fireplace with built-ins, pantry storage shelving, and half bathroom.)

Stunning white and blue kitchen remodel - complete with arabesque backsplash behind the induction cooktop and textured backsplash running the full height of the wall behind the kitchen sink and coffee bar area. Set of Bosch appliances including coffee station and wall ovens. Beautiful Cambria quartz countertops in Portrush with a waterfall edge on the island. Island cabinets are a deep blue to match the veining in the countertops. Tons of storage, cabinets protected with drip trays and other custom features in the kitchen and mud room. (Not pictured, but also part of this project: fireplace with built-ins, pantry storage shelving, and half bathroom.) Engineered hardwood from Mannington throughout the main floor living areas.

Trees are an object of supreme beauty that brings a sense of pride and character to any property. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, they also offer a wealth of additional benefits. They can help reduce the cost of heating and cooling as well as increase the curb appeal of a property. Trees also benefit the environment by reducing pollution and providing refuge to local wildlife. If you happen to have oak trees on your property, it is especially important to make sure your trees undergo general maintenance and tree care. One of the most common problems landowners with oak trees face is oak wilt. Five Star Tree Services is here to let you know how to spot and protect your green friends from this debilitating tree ailment. What Is Oak Wilt? Oak wilt is a very aggressive form of tree fungus that attacks the oak species in particular. It grows on the outer sapwood of the tree and slowly starts to sap away nutrients and water from the tree itself. Left untreated, oak wilt can cause the tree to dieback or even expire completely. Oak wilt targets healthy oak trees, mature oak trees, and stressed oak trees in equal measure. It is easiest to spot the symptoms of oak wilt in the early spring or summer. The most common signs of oak wilt are bronze and wilting foliage. Where Does Oak Wilt Start? Most oak wilt will start along the tips of the branches and the top of the oak tree. One reason it may take so long to spot a problem is that it begins out of the usual line of sight. Most homeowners will notice a sudden decline in the health of a usually healthy tree that starts along its crown. Another sign of oak wilt is when the outer side of the tree bark starts to develop gum. This gum attracts other pests such as birds, insects, and squirrels who then carry the fungus from sick trees to healthy trees. Along with spores, the fungus can also spread through the root system of one oak tree to the other, but it is hard to notice unless you happen to be digging around the trees for another reason. When Are Oak Trees Most Susceptible? Healthy and stressed oak trees are equally prone to catching oak wilt, but is it more likely to occur in the spring. It is always best to avoid pruning oak trees in the spring to reduce the chance of new fungal infections or for infections from other trees being spread to healthy trees. Wounds or environmental damage during the spring should be cared for by professionals to help reduce the chances of oak wilt infection. Is There A Cure For Oak Wilt? There is no cure for oak wilt, so the best method is prevention. Avoid pruning and damage during growing seasons and stick to winter pruning in Richmond Hill to cut down on infection rates. If you do have an oak tree that is showing signs of oak wilt, the best course of action is to have it removed to prevent the fungus from spreading to other trees. If you think your oak trees may be showing signs of oak wilt, give Five Star Tree Services a call at (416) 990-3355 for an in-person assessment today.

We loved this project due to the uniqueness of the space, and the challenges it presented. We installed a 5.1 surround sound system using hidden speakers, as well as, a hidden tv that retracted seamlessly into the furniture. To make this system customer friendly, we custom programmed a universal remote eliminating the need for a basket full of remotes.

Peter Lavenson
Large traditional white one-story vinyl exterior home idea in Boston

Who said a Laundry Room had to be dull and boring? This colorful laundry room is loaded with storage both in its custom cabinetry and also in its 3 large closets for winter/spring clothing. The black and white 20x20 floor tile gives a nod to retro and is topped off with apple green walls and an organic free-form backsplash tile! This room serves as a doggy mud-room, eating center and luxury doggy bathing spa area as well. The organic wall tile was designed for visual interest as well as for function. The tall and wide backsplash provides wall protection behind the doggy bathing station. The bath center is equipped with a multifunction hand-held faucet with a metal hose for ease while giving the dogs a bath. The shelf underneath the sink is a pull-out doggy eating station and the food is located in a pull-out trash bin.

After - Blending contemporary forms and lush plantings, this Garden maximizes the sensory experience of the materials and planting from inside and outside the home. The garden occupies an interior courtyard framed by four interior walls. The home, designed by Architect Cliff May was built in 1948 and the following year was featured in House Beautiful Magazine. The clients list of needs and desires was brief. They wanted a space that would complement the mid century modern home and provide visual interest from inside the home. Some form of water was also requested. They had a budget of $30,000. In order to stay within their budget the clients performed the demolition of the old garden. The designer’s intent was to create a garden that would possess a clear sculptural quality and would be as visually striking from inside the home as it would be from inside the courtyard. The strategy behind the design was to use hardscape materials characterized by simple geometric forms and a planting palette that would emphasize form over color, and then to arrange the materials to achieve an interpretation of modern aesthetic. The views from inside the homes three main living rooms present the garden as a graphic composition of space, hardscape materials and planting. Inside the courtyard the edges are defined by stone and planting. The floor is composed of rectangular slabs of Teakwood flagstone with a counterpoint of Mexican beach pebbles set within the joints and around the edges. Concrete along the edges of the Teakwood pads reduces migration of the modified stone and sand base. The contrast of the Mexican beach pebbles accentuates the pattern of the flagstone. The outside perimeter of the pebbles is contained with low profile edging. An existing catch drain was utilized for storm water runoff. A concrete block pier set on a concrete footing is covered with black stucco and provides a perch for a custom made copper bowl that circulates water into the L shaped water feature. The water features subterranean basin is constructed of pressure treated wood with a custom box liner insert. Since the Teakwood flagstone was unavailable as coping for the water feature, the designer chose Shawnee Buff stone to complement the Teakwood flagstone. The subtle sound of water spilling from the copper bowl and the reflective qualities of the water help to create an atmosphere of relaxation. The planting is composed of shades of green with white flowers in order to accentuate the graphic design. ‘Justin Brouwer’ Boxwood, ‘Sum and Substance’ Hosta, white Anemones, black bamboo and ornamental grasses contrast dramatically with the clean lines of the hardscape elements. The black bamboo is set in 30” diameter concrete containers to control the vigorous plant from spreading. The construction of the interior courtyard space challenged the building team. They set up baffles between the front door and the door to the courtyard as well as temporary protection over the floor to allow the process to move forward without too much disturbance to the client’s lives. All of the materials were shuffled through the temporary portal. The clients love the space and recently said that “the design is so well thought out and simple that they would never get tired of it.” The designs sculptural quality compliments the modern feel of the home and creates a sublime yet dramatic view from within the house or within the courtyard. The clients plan to purchase two black Bertoia Diamond chairs with red cushions which should perfectly integrate with the space.

The Pumpkin Ridge Passive House harnesses the simplicity of Passive House design to deliver superb comfort and efficiency at minimal added construction cost. The Pumpkin Ridge Passive House is no more expensive to own on a monthly basis than a conventional custom home, when monthly energy costs are considered alongside mortgage, taxes and insurance. Yet the high performance green building will consume 90% less heating energy and offer exceptional comfort and indoor air quality. The project, designed by Scott Edwards Architecture and built by Hammer & Hand, is one of six homes in the Pacific Northwest to be featured by Northwest ENERGY STAR® as a demonstration super-efficient home. Photography by Jeff Amram.

ShadeFX custom fabricated a 16’ x 8’ Freestanding Canopy in a daring Arcade FR Red. The two-post Slate Grey structure provides an open concept with minimal structure and maximum protection.