"Integrity" displays intricately beautiful rugs with a geometric uniqueness, perfect for adding a spark to your living space. This collection offers a spectrum of hues and patterns, making it impossible not to find the perfect one for you. True to it's name, a percentage of the collection's proceeds will go toward funding care for our veterans through "Wounded Warrior Project." Pieces such as these can pull together any area in your home, as well as helping those who have risked their lives pulling together our nation.

"Integrity" displays intricately beautiful rugs with a geometric uniqueness, perfect for adding a spark to your living space. This collection offers a spectrum of hues and patterns, making it impossible not to find the perfect one for you. True to it's name, a percentage of the collection's proceeds will go toward funding care for our veterans through "Wounded Warrior Project." Pieces such as these can pull together any area in your home, as well as helping those who have risked their lives pulling together our nation.

"Integrity" displays intricately beautiful rugs with a geometric uniqueness, perfect for adding a spark to your living space. This collection offers a spectrum of hues and patterns, making it impossible not to find the perfect one for you. True to it's name, a percentage of the collection's proceeds will go toward funding care for our veterans through "Wounded Warrior Project." Pieces such as these can pull together any area in your home, as well as helping those who have risked their lives pulling together our nation.

"Integrity" displays intricately beautiful rugs with a geometric uniqueness, perfect for adding a spark to your living space. This collection offers a spectrum of hues and patterns, making it impossible not to find the perfect one for you. True to it's name, a percentage of the collection's proceeds will go toward funding care for our veterans through "Wounded Warrior Project." Pieces such as these can pull together any area in your home, as well as helping those who have risked their lives pulling together our nation.

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

Leslie Fine Interiors
Home design - transitional home design idea in Boston

There are a few reasons why it is critical that your trees have a regular schedule for pruning and maintenance. Pruning helps trees to maintain a tree’s health as well as form it to a pleasing aesthetic shape. Furthermore, pests and diseases are also controlled by regular pruning and care. When pruning is properly performed, your trees will be healthy and attractive all year long. Five Star Tree Services has put together a list of seven things you should keep in mind regarding your tree pruning. Tree Inspection Before any tree pruning job, the tree should be properly inspected. This will allow you or our tree care service team to determine which branches should be cut. It will also allow any diseases or pests to be identified and dealt with. Remove Dead, Weak & Crossed Branches Dead and weak branches are a hazard to your property and those who happen to walk or lounge under the tree. They also suck vital nutrients away from healthy branches and the tree trunk. Removing them will prevent accidents and allow your tree to thrive. Crossed branches can also cause problems later down the line. They affect the airflow to the crown and can also prevent sunlight from passing through the tree. Pay Attention to Spacing It’s important to pay attention to branch spacing when pruning your tree. Lateral branches should be spaced evenly, especially when pruning trees that have yet to mature. Follow the Basic Pruning Rules It’s important that the 1/4th and 1/3rd rules of pruning are followed. This means that you should never cut more than a third of the total height of the tree. This length is measured from the bottom up. You should also only cut 1/4th or less of a tree’s crown when you prune at any one time. Get Your Tools Ready The tools you use to prune should be ready well before you make the first cut. You should start your project equipped with a pole pruner, pruning saws, hedge shears, loppers, and pruning shears. They also need to be properly sharpened before you start your pruning project. Each of these tools will allow you to reach different parts of the tree and prune them in a safe manner. If your tools are dull, they can damage the tree or even cause accidents when you attempt to cut. Prune on Schedule There are schedules for pruning that should be followed according to the type of tree you are caring for. Summer blooming trees should be pruned in early spring while evergreens and hedges should be taken care of in the early part of summer. Fruit-bearing trees should be pruned late in winter ahead of the frost. If there is damage to your tree, it doesn’t matter what time of year it may be, correct the problem as soon as possible. Avoid Protecting Post-Pruning Pruning leaves behind wounds, but they will heal. Though they may be unsightly for a while, the marks will heal and return back to its natural beauty. Don’t paint the pruning wounds to protect the tree, it actually has no effect on decay prevention. Painting may even trigger diseases or encourage pests to take up residence. How We Can Help Tree pruning is a complication job, but with our tips, you can do it right. It is always a good idea to leave the job to the professionals here at Five Star Tree Services instead. Our Toronto tree care experts have the tools, experience, and skills to get the job done right the first time. Get in touch with us at (416) 990-3355 today for more information.

Shop the Look, See the Photo Tour here: https://www.studio-mcgee.com/studioblog/2016/4/4/modern-mountain-home-tour Watch the Webisode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtwvqrNPjhU Travis J Photography

We used: Custom cherry cabinetry in Arts & Crafts Shaker style by Kabinart in Boulder and Espresso stains. Liberty Hardware Venetian bronze 1-1/2" cabinet knobs. KitchenAid Architect II Series 22 CF counter-depth French door refrigerator. KitchenAid Architect Series II 27" convection single wall oven. KitchenAid 36" 6-burner dual fuel freestanding commercial-style range. KitchenAid Architect II Series 24" dishwasher. Sharp Insight Pro Series 24" built-in microwave drawer (Model #KB6524PS). Crystorama Solaris 12" wide pendant lights in English bronze. Granite countertops in Brown Fantasy. 3"x6" polished marble backsplash. Paint colors: Walls: Glidden Silver Cloud 30YY 63/024 Ceilings/Trims/Doors: Glidden Swan White GLC23 Robert B. Narod Photography

Photos by Patrick Brickman
Kitchen - farmhouse kitchen idea in Charleston

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.

New to the area, this client wanted to modernize and clean up this older 1980's home on one floor covering 3500 sq ft. on the golf course. Clean lines and a neutral material palette blends the home into the landscape, while careful craftsmanship gives the home a clean and contemporary appearance. We first met the client when we were asked to re-design the client future kitchen. The layout was not making any progress with the architect, so they asked us to step and give them a hand. The outcome is wonderful, full and expanse kitchen. The kitchen lead to assisting the client throughout the entire home. We were also challenged to meet the clients desired design details but also to meet a certain budget number.

Collaboration with Canonbury Homes and Frank Neely Design Associates.
Inspiration for a timeless open concept kitchen remodel in Atlanta with beaded inset cabinets and two islands

Two Birds Photography
Kids' room - transitional kids' room idea in Chicago

Example of a large classic master blue tile freestanding bathtub design in Charlotte with furniture-like cabinets, blue cabinets, blue walls, an undermount sink and marble countertops

Are you looking for the perfect late spring and early summer wispy, white, fragrant flowering tree? If so, the fringe tree is what you are looking for! Not only do these trees create a beautiful addition to any yard, they can also make it look like it snowed when their petals fall. These trees don’t grow as tall as some other flowering trees, making them perfect for planting close to your patio, in small yards, under power lines, or as a shrub border. Our team at Five Star Tree Services has come up with some tips on how to care for these delightful trees and the different varieties they come in. Fringe Tree Appearance The average height of a fringe tree is about 10-20 feet tall. This makes it easy for it to fit into any garden nicely. The most prominent thing about this beautiful tree is its white fragrant flowers which bloom in May and early June. These flowers are grouped together in thin, fleecy hanging bands that are 6-8 inches long. These flowers appear all over the tree just before all the leaves start to sprout. After the flowers have fallen, you can enjoy the oval-shaped, dark green leaves for the summer and then the delightful yellow leaves during the fall. The female trees can produce a blackish-blue fruit after the flowers fall, this is a great way to attract your local birds. The bark on the tree is scaly and has red furrows with dark brown ridges. It does best in full sun with well drained but moist soil. It can also tolerate drought and is good with air pollution. With its strong branches but delicate flowers, in order to maximize your enjoyment of the flowers, make sure to plant this tree somewhere that is sheltered from the wind. The Facts Fringe trees are actually related to the olive family and are native to easters North America. They naturally grow on streambanks and hillsides in moist woods. Due to the tassel-like flowers, another name for this tree is Old Man’s Beard. As a remedy for gallbladder inflammation, previously, the bark from the fringe tree has been used in herbal medicine. It has also historically been used as a way to treat wounds. Varieties of Popular Fringe Trees There are 2 popular fringe trees: Chionanthus Retusus- this is a Chinese fringe tree. It is tall with lush branches and beautiful leaves. Other varieties under this are: -Pizazz -Carolina Moonlight -Rubrum -Emerald Snow -Burgundy -Snowdance Chionanthus Virginicus- this is the native easters North American fringe tree we have been focusing on. Care Instructions Luckily, these trees are easy to care for. To have a happy tree and many blooms, follow these tree care tips. Growth Zones- 3-9 Plant- in moist soil that has good drainage. Height- 12-20 feet when mature. The growth rate is about 6-10 inches a year. Sun Exposure- full sun Flowers- May to early June. The blossoms usually last about 2 weeks. Prune- Do not prune during dormant times. Once the tree is older, it won’t require much pruning. Simply cut out damaged, weak, or dead branches. Deer Resistance- deer rarely damage these trees. Threats With this easy to care for tree, you don’t have to worry about much. However, there are a few pests to look out for. In order to fight off pests like spider mites and scales, proper planting, watering, and fertilizing will keep it healthy and pest free. If a tree gets stressed, borers will take this opportunity to tunnel inside the tree and eat the bark. To keep these trees safe, avoid injuring them. These trees can also act as a secondary host for the emerald ash borer. Avoid planting a fringe tree in known areas where these invasive insects like to live. How Five Star Tree Services Can Help If you have been looking for the perfect flowering tree to plant in your yard, the fringe tree might be the best one for you! If you have any questions about what trees are best for your property, make sure to give us a call at (416) 990-3355! Here at Five Star Tree Services, we can offer different options and also offer you our Richmond Hill Tree Planting Services!

Gorgeous master bath finished with Dal-Tile's Fabrique porcelain tile in the color Noir Linen polished. Tile size is 12"x24" installed in a brick joint pattern. The floor boasts underfloor heating on a timed thermostat.

Great spacious bathroom with lot of amenities. Photographer: Jon Upson
Large elegant master beige tile and porcelain tile drop-in bathtub photo in San Diego with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige walls and a two-piece toilet

Tucked away in the backwoods of Torch Lake, this home marries “rustic” with the sleek elegance of modern. The combination of wood, stone and metal textures embrace the charm of a classic farmhouse. Although this is not your average farmhouse. The home is outfitted with a high performing system that seamlessly works with the design and architecture. The tall ceilings and windows allow ample natural light into the main room. Spire Integrated Systems installed Lutron QS Wireless motorized shades paired with Hartmann & Forbes windowcovers to offer privacy and block harsh light. The custom 18′ windowcover’s woven natural fabric complements the organic esthetics of the room. The shades are artfully concealed in the millwork when not in use. Spire installed B&W in-ceiling speakers and Sonance invisible in-wall speakers to deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint. Spire also installed a Sonance Landscape Audio System so the homeowner can enjoy music outside. Each system is easily controlled using Savant. Spire personalized the settings to the homeowner’s preference making controlling the home efficient and convenient.