LHQ16-SUMMER by Bowen Enterprises

No. 16

summer 2012

Golden Legacy Illustrious Additions to Walt Disney World Resort

raising the stakes gertler & wente architecture llp / regional focus: majestic homes of aspen, co

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ON THE COVER The exterior shot of this Golden Oak home--the luxury development located at Walt Disney World Resort-showcases the work of CAHILL builders, one of the ten companies who worked on the resort community. Keeping in line with the style Golden Oak focuses on, including Tuscan, French and Mediterranean elements, CAHILL--along with the help of interior design firm Design Specifications--built a warm home complete with a crystal-blue pool that is surrounded by polished tiles, and a rectangular fire pit. Views into the interior can also be seen via the ample seating around the pool. page 74 cover Photo: GREY CRAWFORD

The Andaz 5th Avenue BY TONYCHI & ASSOCIATES 4

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Architects 28 robert Gurney Architects 32 phx architecture 36 Robert m. berger architects 42 STEAMBOAT ARCHITECTURAL ASSOCIATES

44 BERNBAUM MAGADINI ARCHITECTS 48 LS3P NEAL PRINCE 52 THIELSEN ARCHITECTS 56 CAL PETRESCU 58 BORIS BARANOVICH ARCHITECTS

Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort 64 soco interiors 66 J. Richard Watson Construction 68 JONES-CLAYTON construction 69 TONI SIMS 72 ISSA HOMES

74 CAHILL 77 DERRICK BUILDERS 81 GOEHRING & MORGAN 84 DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS 86 rAY COUDRIET builder

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Calendar Trade shows and special events in the coming months page 10

Product Spotlight Highlighting innovation in the field of design page 11

Materials Trends in the medium of creation page 18

Behind the Lines featuring Atelier Gary Lee page 20

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A sampling of content found at LuxuryHomeQuarterly.com

JSPRPlastic Fantastic JSPR, a Dutch furniture and interior design firm, was founded in 2005 by Jasper van Grootel. The company aims to deliver products with unexpected touches, while still being simplistic. The Plastic Fantastic line of durable and flexible furniture is the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best-known creation. Made entirely out of rubber, the chairs, benches and ottomans can be placed indoor or outdoors, and are available in more than a dozen vibrant colors. jspr.eu To view more innovative products, visit our website: luxuryhomequarterly.com

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books

7 Climb

True life: steven harris architects author: Steven Harris Showcasing a trajectory of Steven Harris’ residential work from the past 25 years, True Life succeeds in effortless and accessible spaces that cater to the individuals that inhabit them. Using a collaborative approach, the projects reflect the client’s needs, making each innovative and unique. Princeton Architectural Press; papress.com SHA_book_01_VERBS_pxii_101_ToP.indd 6-7

7/26/10 3:27:17 PM

Expressive modern: THE INTERIORS OF AMY LAU author: AMY LAU A love for 20th-century furniture mixed with the use of luscious colours results in a distinct aesthetic that only Interior Designer Amy Lau could create. Every home she works with is influenced by nature, and she integrates abstract art on the walls as well as in textiles, transforming an ordinary room into a three-dimensional work of art. The Monacelli Press; randomhouse.com/monacelli

THE MODERN CALIFORNIA BEACH HOUSE author: PATRICK KILLEN Founder of studio 9 one 2, architect Patrick Killen incorporates technology into his imaginative and innovative design aesthetic. Not only are the clients’ desires met, but Killen’s attention to basic human needs, such as comfort and safety, are apparent throughout his work. Images Publishing Dist Ac; imagespublishinggroup.com

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custom-home projects of note

Montecito Residence Elisa Revello

The Montecito Residence by Caputo Construction is a spacious, industrial structure poised on the hillside outside of Los Angeles, CA. The all-encompassing glass doors of the home roll up and vanish completely, fusing the indoor living areas with the outdoorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;reaching out from the manicured garden into the vivid landscape. The loft-like design creates an unencumbered space that is carefully accented with modernist furniture and lighting. Neutral hues and minimalist designs are complemented by splashes of lustrous color and fine art. The master bath opens up into surrounding nature neatly concealed by sheer drapery. Flawless masonry flows from the outside in, further facilitating the seamless connection of the exterior and interior.

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Credits Architect Barton Myers Associates Interiors & Landscape Architect Rios Clementi Hale Studios

Exterior Photographer Ciro Coelho Photography Interior Photographers Del Zoppo / Simmons

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Water- Cooled House Elisa Revello

The tranquil and environmentally-chic Water-Cooled House by Wallflower Architecture + Design is nestled among bountiful tropical trees in Bukit Timah, Singapore. A contemporary home designed with ample water that surrounds the property promotes natural cooling by employing the ample cross breeze and thermal insulation. On the second story, the main living areas have minimal enclosures and supporting structures to maximize the connection to the natural surroundings that magnify the tree-lined expanse. A spiral staircase descends to the first story where continuous light lengthens into an infinite koi pond. An oculus acts as spotlight to the main entrance and is vivified by the oscillating waves.

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Credits Architect: Wallflower Architecture + Design Design Team: Cecil Chee + Robin Tan + Sean Zheng Photographer: Albert Lim

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THE CYPRESS RESIDENCE BY PACIFIC PENINSULA GROUP • FEATURED IN LHQ SPRING 2012 / photos by Barry Calhoun N o. 15 spring 2012 Q

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Paciﬁc Palace

Kari Whitman rolls out the red carpet for this regal L.A. pad

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ARCHITECTS A group of skilled and passionate innovators who plan, develop and re-envision buildings and homes for clientele across the globe

Sedona Residence BY PHX ARCHITECTURE / PHOTO Pam Singleton | Image Photography luxuryhomequarterly.com luxuryhomequarterly.com

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Robert Gurney Architects A nature-based palette results in simple design done beautifully

photos: Maxwell MacKenzie Architectural Photographer

by Melissa Fears

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Robert Gurney, who founded his practice in 1990, has risen to prominence by producing dynamic modern structures in urban and rural settings alike. Gurney and his team are versatile designers. “It all starts with the site or in urban areas it starts with the materials,” Gurney says. “We try to do projects that are clean-lined, simple and void of trim.” Especially significant to the firm is site-specific appropriateness, with the decoration of a space intended to complement the building around it as well as the landscape beyond. Whether working on a complex historical project or a vacant site for new construction, the process always involves an understanding of the site, its history and its surroundings.

Wissioming 2 A rare enclave of modern houses in Glen Echo, MD, located just outside of Washington D.C., lies this contemporary masterpiece complete with a wooded lot and distant views of the Potomac River. Positioned to preserve a majority of the mature trees, the house is oriented toward the river views and south-facing slope. Organized into two volumes, this house is connected with glass bridges that

“What’s interesting about the projects we work on is that the apartments and the row houses, where you don’t have a great view or something to focus on, tend to be more inward-focused, more reliant on materials and have really strong detail,” says Gurney. “Once you sort of establish that sort of mindset you don’t lose it on the bigger projects.”

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span a reflecting pool, which separate the volumes. Secondary volumes converge and overlap the larger structures delivering a dynamic composition. Large spans of glass open to a terrace and are arranged around a luxurious swimming pool with two “infinity” edges reinforcing the connection to the forested exterior. Narrow steel window frames constructed in Mondrian-inspired patterns are combined with translucent panels and wenge and white oak millwork. Pompeii Scarpaletto stone defines the light-filled, minimally decorated interior, while white terrazzo flooring complements and unifies the volumes on the main floor.

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photos: Maxwell MacKenzie Architectural Photographer

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He also says that bigger and new projects are not necessarily better. “The reality is it’s harder to find a starting point when you are starting with a new house. My favorite building type is sort of that row house transformation type projects,” says Gurney. “Especially in Washington D.C. when you are working on historical properties in Georgetown and Capitol Hill you can’t really change the front of the building. Then you open the door, and it’s this great surprise when you come inside and it’s filled with modern materials.” Gurney relies on muted backgrounds, a restrained palette of rich colors and materials, and spare, almost sculptural compositions to achieve the distinctive modernism he desires. “We want it to be aesthetically rich, but not austere or sterile,” says Gurney. “It’s basically this really nice combination of simple clean lines, but doing it with rich materials.” Using creative ways to rehab old materials is a specialty Gurney’s team is proud of. Typically a material used for conveyer belts, they use the woven wire and stainless steel wire cloth to make screens that allow light to shine through. It is this type of edgy modernism and creativity that plays a crucial part in the glamour of designing. “One of my favorite stones to use is recycled slate and use it in a dry stack manner of laying the stone,” says Gurney. “It has super thin lines. It’s beautiful to use something that has already been used once before.” Whether it’s reusing old stone or creating a solar panel lighting system, the company attempts to be green while still creating a visually appealing space. “I think the one lesson to be learned about being green is that it doesn’t have to be a compromise, it actually opens up a lot of new doors,” Gurney says. “It’s really refreshing in a lot of ways.”

a message from bloom builders When Robert Gurney Architects called for a builder with talent for innovative construction, they knew award-winning Bloom Builders could bring their concepts to life. Residential clients requiring imaginative input and technical expertise also call on Bloom to build the homes of their dreams. With over 40 years of experience, we are hands-on from design through the finished product – working efficiently within budget and on-schedule. We have gained the reputation for using the most contemporary construction methods and materials in the industry. Our results speak for themselves, with residential and commercial projects of unmatched beauty, quality, and environmental efficiency.

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photos: Pam Singleton – Image Photography

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PHX Architecture Team Design Breaks the Mold Between What is Trending, Durable and Lasting

Sedona Residence Breathtaking views and vortex energy fields (visitsedona.com) captivate as east coast

by Melissa Fears

formal living is left behind for pure natural beauty. “In this specific house there are 360

Since opening in 2002, PHX Architecture has completed over six hundred projects, including custom homes, retail and commercial spaces. The firm joins a passion for detail along with innovative design. “Our business model has changed over the years from being all about one person’s design and more about a team approach,” says Erik Peterson AIA, one of the four principals of PHX Architecture. A studio environment lends itself to a close-knit staff that pride themselves in both contemporary and classic design where each person brings something unique to the drawing board.

The sense of a place can only be gained first hand, she says. “As amazing as technology is, it cannot compare to standing next to a wall that is hundreds of years old,” says Conti. “You engage all the senses beyond just sight by adding touch, smell, feel, sound and gaining an appreciation of the ‘fabric’ of the culture or community.” For the Sedona Residence, one of the firm’s recent contemporary projects, it was important to really design with the light and views in mind.

“We don’t have a specific style that we try to force upon the project; our design style is more diverse,” says Peterson.

“The living room has the canyon face views with sloping ceilings to capture the tops of the cliffs, and material that leads from the inside seamlessly to the outside,” says Peterson.

This experienced team continues to grow internationally with projects scattered as far as Mexico and Nicaragua.

Peterson explains that creating spaces that can be long lasting and engaging throughout generations is a challenge, yet equally rewarding.

The urge for international design came early to Nikal Conti, a principal who studied design abroad in China, Australia, Germany and Italy during her summer breaks.

“We are really proud of our staff, and are consistently blown away with the quality of the work that comes off the drawing board,” says Conti.

With icons such as Carlo Scarpa, Julia Morgan and Antoine Predock as inspiration, it is difficult not to be challenged.

While technology can not recreate touch and feel, architecture has provided the opportunities to be on location without having to travel or need offices abroad.

“It challenges me to judge what we are doing, especially modern design, in terms of what is lasting verses what is trending,” says Conti. “It also reinforces the ‘rules’; if we reinterpret a Mediterraneanstyle house we are grounded in what is authentic, so we can then break or update a design that still will retain a lasting quality.”

“With technology now we connect with those locations using things such as Go To Meeting or Skype where we can have face to face meeting with clients and team,” says Peterson. “Most sites are available through Google Earth where we can see the realistic views of the site and the TOPO which we can merge with our CAD or 3D CAD technology.”

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views that are unbelievable,” Peterson says of framing the views. This contemporary rendition of desert style is located at Seven Canyons of Sedona, Arizona surrounded by Coconino National Forest (fs.usda.gov/ coconino). The estate elicits freedom, the enduring symbol of American life and contentment. “One of the key elements was always getting to experience nature,” says Peterson. The team utilized regional components incorporating Sedona’s rich red stones on the exterior and using copper on the roof and fascia. “The cliff faces reflect the setting sun and in the evening the intensity of the color is intense. It is pretty clear that nature is the best architect!” Conti says.

01 The Sedona residence’s impressive exterior is made complete with views to the interior 02 The walls connected to the stairwell are lined with a row of identical, rectangular windows 03 The bedroom looks out onto Sedona’s breathtaking views 04 The living room blurs the boundary between inside and outside through its combination of locally quarried stone walls, aged copper metal cladding and dark wood floors

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“The living room has the canyon face views with sloping ceilings to capture the tops of the cliffs, and material that leads from the inside seamlessly to the outside.” Nikal Conti, principal

photos: Pam Singleton – Image Photography

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05 The Scottsdale Estate boasts a bright, welcoming living room with punches of orange and blue against a neutral backdrop

home automation lighting

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integration

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06 The exterior seating area is guarded by an open stone wall 07 The natural stone gas fireplace brings warmth to the living room against the harsh exposed concrete block and custom steel book shelving

Overcoming site-specific challenges can be difficult, such as intense sun and lack of water in the southwest. With the Sedona Residence, completed in 2010, they focused on specific rooms based on their orientation to light, view and lifestyle. “The view east out the main sitting room to the cliff faces of the Sedona canyon walls is spectacular,” says Conti. The views are for more than just gazing; for this homeowner it was about pure inspiration. As an artist, the wife needed a space to display her artwork and sculptures. Complete with a second-floor studio above the entry rotunda, the house provides a creative outlet.

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“The home was also designed to almost be a museum for her artwork with the views as a backdrop,” says Peterson. The glass 24-foot walls in the N. Scottsdale Estate project can be considered art in their own right. The UV-resistant Low-E glass panels do not just block heat, but soften the interior light balancing out hard materials, such as exposed concrete block and slate floors. Taking the time to discover each project’s unique attributes, PHX Architecture makes every project a piece of lasting art.

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RMB Designs Inc. Curiosity creates fresh designs by Amy Howell Hirt

Berger, a residential architect and owner of RMB Designs in Westport, CN, doesn’t hesitate to ask subcontractors about audio/visual technology, how to support a floating staircase or the different techniques for applying Venetian plaster. He paints and sculpts – although not for projects, dabbles in woodworking and hangs out enough at the stone yard that the staff jokes that he needs an office. “I’m not afraid to ask questions and learn from anybody,” says Berger, who works primarily in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. With a lifetime of curiosity and several decades of home design and construction under his belt, Berger has amassed a wealth of knowledge that often challenges the duties traditionally ascribed to an architect or builder. Based off his lineage – an artist mother and psychologist father, Berger guesses he was destined to become an architect who sees home construction as a work of art, subject to analysis and scrutiny. Rather than beginning a design with mathematical coordinates plugged into computer software, Berger the artist begins on paper sketching what his mind sees down to the texture of the furniture. “My hand just draws it, and it doesn’t matter if the room is 17 feet long or 20. It saves time and we get everyone on the same page right from the start,” Berger says. For Berger, the work of art includes utilitarian features like the framing and plumbing that often will be concealed in the finished home.

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“I truly design everything inside and outside of the house,” he says. Like any artist in a paying field, Berger is adept at skirting the line between the conventional and unorthodox, and building a touch of tension that creates drama. In a home that someday may be viewed as the origin of a french colonial modern style, a knock-down plaster finish wraps the walls and ceilings in an old world technique and a milky, modern silver glaze, providing a unifying background for the unusual theme. In the master suite, an asymmetrical – and unexpected – oval vestibule introduces a futuristic feel and offsets traditional features like the fieldstone fireplace. In the french-country-meets-modern kitchen, Berger played with the contrast of reflective crystals, seen in the Labradorite Big Blue island countertop, and the somber matte finish of a brushed Black Absolute granite on the surrounding countertop.

01 The exterior landscape is serene with a stone-inlaid pool 02 A vast master suite area looks out onto the surrounding woods 03 Beige and neutral tones accent the home’s living room 04 An avant-garde chandelier pulls together the simplistically-designed dining room 05 A grand piano is set against a natural backdrop in the living room

“It’s traditional but clean and modern and not cold. It’s a very inviting place,” Berger says. For Berger’s clients, this artistic, all-inclusive approach produces one-of-a-kind results but also a better bottom line. He now serves as decorator for most projects - allowing him to directly translate the furniture, colors, stains, light fixtures, surfaces and even area rugs depicted in his drawings. If a subcontractor says something can’t be done – such as creating the luxe look of a seven-inch-thick countertop by engineering a six-inch drawer that can support a one-inch stone slab – he simply will do it himself. And if a component of the design is outside of the client’s budget, he finds affordable options that won’t compromise the look. “If you’re picking out exterior stone, an architect might know enough to specify a Laredo Blend, but

there are standard and extra-large sizes, costing three dollars a foot and six dollars a foot. Because I’m also the builder, I can parlay that and suggest the homeowner do a combination so that you get the sense of the stones being large without the cost,” Berger says. While clients sometimes aren’t aware of the work that goes into the creation of a home, that’s OK with Berger. Artists often aren’t in it for the recognition. “No one knows the effort behind it, and oddly enough, that’s one of my goals,” he says.

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photos: Melani Lust

Robert Berger enjoys learning new things, even if the information doesn’t directly apply to a project or his profession.

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French Colonial Residence Just as Robert Berger’s unorthodox approach to home construction is rewriting what it means to be an architect or builder, it’s also creating new architectural styles. While he admits he was at a momentary loss when a client requested “an old world french and modern home,” the result has the makings of a style all its own. “The project basically developed a style that people call and ask if I can build,” Berger says. While the 03

exterior is purely french colonial, the interior is, in a word, unprecedented. By applying a modern tone to traditional features, Berger created a look that manages to be elegant yet edgy. Although the home boasts classic french doors and arches, it is a “trimless house.” A multi-step stain brings fresh depth to the reclaimed chestnut flooring, which traditionally isn’t stained, and in the kitchen, zebrawood brings bold detail to a classically shaped island. Clean-lined furniture and lighting – from the likes of Holly Hunt and Donghia and local resources including Artifact Design Group - is warmed by natural and old world materials such as antique hewn ceiling beams and fieldstone finishes.

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a message from Royal Closet Did you ever wish you had more closet space, or could alleviate the morning mad dash to find something to wear? The Royal Closet will show you organization is not impossible or expensive! We have long been recognized for innovative designs and superior craftsmanship. Royal Closet has been maximizing space and designing closets, home offices, pantries, mudrooms, entertainment centers, and garages since 1989. We offer a variety of materials from melamine laminates to quality stained woods. The Royal closest manufactures on premises. A complimentary in-home consultation is the first step to making your dream come true. Contact the Royal Closet today!

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photos: Melani Lust

a message from Ed's Garage Doors Your garage door makes a powerful statement about you and your home. That’s why Ed’s Garage Doors offers the finest custom and semi-custom garage doors in Fairfield and Westchester counties. Each of our garage doors is built by craftsmen using state-ofthe-art fabrication technology and installed by Ed’s trained professionals. And our dedicated service technicians are the best in the area. Visit our awardwinning, state-of-the-art showroom in Norwalk, CT, where you can see more than 35 full-size doors on display. For more than 35 years, Ed’s Garage Doors has worked with homeowners, architects and contractors to recommend and install exactly the right garage door for your property.

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Congratulations to Robert M. Berger : A Fine Architect & a Pleasure to work with

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Steamboat Architectural Associates Architect merges natural materials and sophisticated textures into Colorado haven by Melissa Fears Architect Bill Rangitsch may use his home as a tester for new ideas, but that does not mean he would not live in any of the spaces he has created over the past 28 years. Each space he creates is as unique as the client he is designing for. “I always tell clients I have very thick skin,” Rangitsch, lead principal and owner of Steamboat Architectural Associates, says. “You can tell me anything you want about the design and the ways things are going; I won’t be offended. At the end of the day it’s your house and we want to make it right for you.” Not regretting a decision in the long-term is very important to SAA, and they always stand behind their work. “I’m more than happy to speak up to clients if they have an idea or want something I think won’t work,” says Rangitsch. “Most clients can appreciate that.” Honing in on that attention to detail made this Colorado-based architect and designer first come to prominence in the 1980’s. Since the firm was established in 1983, they have been striving not only to create immaculate views, but also to offer extremely livable and sustainable spaces. “Cookie cutter” homes are a thing of the past. Looking at each space individually, SAA offers the idea that a house is very unique to each client. “Something at the end of the day that works specifically for them,” says Rangitsch. “Whether it be they have extended family over a lot and need extra bedroom space or they have a collection of art that needs to be kept safe and visible to everybody; we offer it.” Style is more than just having good looks; it is about having sustainability and purpose. Using natural and borrowed lighting is crucial. “Sometimes you have a view that is not so good, but that’s where all the good light comes from,” says

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Rangitsch. “We find ways to get it into homes without having to look at the neighbor’s garage.” Using energy saving ideas is nothing new to this company, as it has been working with passive solar design and green construction since the mid-eighties. “We don’t actively do sustainable architecture,” he says. “We just incorporate it into everything we do.” Working with natural materials, such as stone and reclaimed wood, SAA offers long-lasting durable materials that look good, and are appropriate for the environments they work in. Environments near the oceanfront or mountain ranges have issues like humidity, salty air and UV rays. Materials such as reclaimed and recycled materials can withstand a lot, as they don’t need to be refinished year after year like stained wood. The Scully residence, a SAA design, was completed in 2009 and is a prime example of using innovative techniques and materials.This project was a challenge as it was one of the first homes built in the area. “You have to design with that in mind,” says Rangitsch. “We had discussions about, so you have this great beautiful view now, but what about when the neighbor blocks that?” With beautiful views of Fish Creek Canyon and a mountain valley, they kept an open floor plan with plenty of indoor/outdoor space. Bringing elements from the exterior of the house, interior designer Leslie Haradin from Silver Creek Design worked with a lot of gray and metal tones. A unique wood finishing technique called sabe adds character to the home. Adding steel wool to white vinegar, it reacts with the natural acids in the wood to create a living finish. Wood may add a look of warmth, but in reality it gets 40 below in the winter months so the home relies on a supplemental heating system.

Scully Residence The homeowners imagined an informal, light-filled dwelling in which they could simply relax. “They wanted something very livable,” says Rangitsch. “They had a number of friends who have contemporary homes where everything has to be staged or placed. It’s hard to keep looking good.” Behind the home’s weathered wood and stone façade (need link) lies a series of informal rooms enlivened by diverse textures. It is not so much a single home as it is several structures of varied personalities unified by their high-ceiling hallways and open spaces. A game of constant and subtle inflection is being played—weathered-wood paneling, warm stone and an exposed metal staircase. Any color present comes from the art, natural wood hues and from the luscious front garden’s shades of green. The restrained palette accommodates the home’s relaxed feel without imposing the formality of a contemporary residence. “We tried to work with warm colors because six or seven months of the year it’s white outside,” he says. “We used spectrally correct fluorescent lights to be not only energy efficient, but to give the home warmth.”

“Using radiant heat, in which lightweight concrete distributes heat within the floor, can keep your house cooler, but still keeps you warm and have no drafty spots,” says Rangitsch. Large overhangs resist solar gain; while in the summer months lower windows can be opened to vent out the home at night so the house stays cool all day. Using innovative sustainable products give this residence and this firm the upper hand.

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photos: John Robledo Foto

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Bernbaum Magadini Architects

Architecture for the Modern World by Amy Lemen Known for its clean style and modern edge, Dallas company Bernbaum Magadini Architects is setting the stage for design with its team-based approach and consummate focus on integrity in both design and business. The firm’s founders, Bruce Bernbaum and Patricia “Tricy” Magadini, first met in college at the University of Arizona in Tucson. Bernbaum was a sole practitioner for several years before Magadini made the move out on her own. When she did, Bernbaum said there was office space available near his own office. She moved in with her own practice, and that’s where the synergy started.

“After working next door to each other and helping each other on projects, we realized that our work got better as a team,” says Magadini. Bernbaum had worked for several firms in Dallas before he went out on his own, while Magadini had worked in Tucson and Dallas for both large and small firms, as well as for a nonprofit organization doing low income housing. And each felt they had something more to offer the market.

Today, most of the firm’s work is the result of referrals – a true testament to any firm’s success – and Bernbaum-Magadini is no exception, whether the project is a large commercial

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The Beavers Clark Residence A 4,400-square-foot-space was built for a professional couple whose two daughters recently moved away. They wanted a home big enough for two bedrooms, as well as a small sitting area, for when their daughters visit. The husband is an amateur photographer, so Bernbaum Magadini made sure to provide ample wall space to display his ever-changing photographs. The couple also loves to read, so in lieu of a larger master bedroom the home has a small library/sitting area right outside of the room. The kitchen opens up to the large family room, making the area perfect for cooking and entertaining. The exterior of the home houses a long lap pool that is partially under a large covered terrace. The pool also provides views to the interior, including the entry, family room and kitchen.

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photos: Charles Davis Smith

“We both wanted to go out on our own because we wanted the freedom to work on projects we could be really invested in,” says Magadini. “We offer very personalized services no matter what the project is, and we value good design and good documentation for our designs so that our projects are successful both visually and technically.” That shared interest in a common goal combined with successful project work led to a partnership, and Bernbaum -Magadini launched in 1998 as a full-service architectural firm, serving residential, commercial, and municipal clients.

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“We are very attentive to our clients needs, and I think they appreciate that,” says Magadini. “We are also a small firm so our clients always have the attention of one or both of the partners, as well as our staff. The design and attention to details is the same.” With an architectural philosophy that successful buildings come from the integration of both individual needs and ultimate form, it’s the firm’s soft, yet contemporary style that sets it apart. Magadini says that the firm’s evolution throughout the years is the result of several benchmark projects that have helped it develop its unique style. “Our buildings have very clean contemporary lines and details, but are also warm and livable – they’re user-friendly,” says Magadini. “Our choice of materials also varies with the project, based on style or client preferences.” Since its inception, the firm has had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects – from huge

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residential endeavors to fire stations for cities and other municipalities to small commercial projects. The firm is designing its first freestanding commercial building – a project that the entire team is looking forward to doing. “We are proud that we have maintained our level of service to our clients even as the firm has grown,” says Magadini. “Our goal is to always make our architectural designs timeless so our clients are happy with their home or business for years to come, and I think we have accomplished that because we value integrity in business and design.” As for the future, the firm is always on the lookout for new opportunities – both in the Lone Star State and beyond, even setting its sights to international projects and considering adding an interior designer to its staff at some point.

01 Exterior views of the home show an expansive wooden door and lush greenery 02 A stone wall houses a long pool of water in the home's backyard 03 A simplistic block walkway leads to the entryway for this modern home 04 Simple clean lines inspire a modern aesthetic while offering a warm and livable space 05 The modern kitchen features an island, complete with a sink and sleek cabinetry

“We would also like to do more small commercial buildings, and we love unique residential projects,” says Magadini. “We have had some great clients and want to continue that into the future.”

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photos: Charles Davis Smith

venture or something as simple as a design for a front door.

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ARCHITECTs

LS3P Neal Prince Design firm greets design challenges with unsurpassed creativity by Tricia Despres Chances are you can’t easily identify a LS3P Neal Prince design…simply by its look on the outside. And that’s exactly how they want to keep it. “There are many designers and architects out there that once people see their work, they always recognize it as such,” says Matt Tindall, a member of LS3P Neal Prince. “We approach projects differently here because we focus on designing for each specific client, with no overwhelming, specific style or tailored features.” Indeed, the firm stands out from the rest, and rightfully so. Encompassing six offices with over 200 employees, LS3P Neal Prince provides high quality, custom services in architecture and interior design that seems to thrive when presented with challenges. “I have walked many sites with clients, and inevitably, a constraint can develop into an opportunity,” says

Frank Bain, Associate Principal at LS3P Neal Prince. “There are always going to be things about a piece of property that you can’t change, but coming up with solutions to deal with them is what it’s all about.” “I definitely think we are unique in the way we approach different challenges,” says Tindall. The firm was forever changed when Greenville, SCbased Neal Prince Architects and LS3P Associates LTD. merged in late 2010. Since then, their target audience has changed dramatically, now encompassing the commercial and residential market equally and essentially broadening their design approach, whether on the peaks of the mountains or the lakes and coasts of the Carolinas. “The merger offered us an expanded network of experience and strengths that would help lead us into a number of exciting new markets,” says Tindall, who has worked for the firm for the past six years. “Specifically, the addition of custom residential expe-

01 The Glassy Mountain Residence challenges the relationship between structure and the surrounding landscape 02 LS3P's Top Ridge Drive Residence highlights the stacked stone and wood accents while incorporating unique window designs that offer 180-degree views of Lake Keowee 03 The star of this room is the ceiling, with cherry-wood beams and matching wood trim for the windows 04 The breezeway offers views for the front and backyard. Skylights shine down on the main entryway that features a floor-to-ceiling window with views of the interior 05 For the Wood Sage Residence LS3P designed a multi-functional fireplace that serves as storage and media center for the sitting area

photos: Taylor Architectural Photography

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“There are always going to be things about a piece of property that you can’t change, but coming up with solutions to deal with them is what it’s all about.” Frank Bain, Associate Principal

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Expanding on their expertise certainly means being exposed to not only different markets, but also a wide range of clients with specific needs. Marrying architects with clients is an act that when done precisely can ultimately lead to successful outcomes. “We have several talented residential architects,” says Bain. “It's important to find out what the client is looking for and then align them with an architect or team that will be able to work with them in a rather seamless manner. The chemistry has to be right.” Sometimes, connecting the right client with the right architect can take time. “I remember meeting

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with the client for two hours one afternoon, and then not hearing back from them for about two years,” says Bain of a three story, 5,100-square-foot mountain home located in Landrum, SC. “I was pleased to know that in that span of time, they actually interviewed with a number of different designers, but continued to come back to Neal Prince.” In response to a still somewhat shaky economy, the firm has had to evolve constantly in terms of coming up with more creative solutions to the money spent on the project. The firm’s Top Ridge Drive project at the Reserve at Lake Keowee is one of those examples of amazing architecture performing efficiently. Encompassing over 8,900 square feet of living space, the palatial surroundings was something that the homeowner wanted to keep as understated as

possible. “The lot is set on a peninsula, and the homeowner has nine grandchildren who would be there often to play on the lake,” says Tindall. “They didn’t want it to look like just another massive home.” And if the property doesn’t offer its ample share of inspiration, LS3P executives say they will continue to seek it out. “We often travel to other areas such as Texas, Colorado and California to check out dramatically different building styles,” says Bain. “We also spend a tremendous amount of time researching information in books and periodicals that illustrate unique design styles and turn of the century architects. They all offer us ideas that we can draw from for inspiration.”

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photos: Taylor Architectural Photography

rience has been a huge advantage for us. Ultimately, we feel like the merger also broadened up our reach in both of the Carolinas.”

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Thielsen Architects Service and space equals success for firm by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford

With its location on Lake Washington, Thielsen Architects’ Lakeview Cottage overcame numerous zoning challenges that were turned into unique design aspects of this modern split-level home. The external brick façade gives a classy touch to a split entrance to the master bedroom, two additional bedrooms and a laundry room in the upper level. The central core area is highlighted by a built-in desk and a piano. “Circulation space is often overlooked, but the walk through areas at Lakeview increases floor area,” says Thielsen. The eastern half of the property is located on a steep slope, and when the original house on the property did not conform to zoning, the grade difference between water and street and a raised roadway all had to be addressed. “The area has the most restrictive development requirements in the state of Washington,” says Thielsen. “But Lakeview does not feel like your parent’s split-level home.”com). All of these ingredients come together to make the Cypress Ridge the ideal family space.

photos: Art Grice

Lakeview Cottage

ARCHITECTs

Before ‘green design’ was a hip trend in the architecture industry, and before the term existed, Dave Thielsen established Thielsen Architects to create building forms and interior spaces that are responsive to the site, local climate and seasonal changes in natural light. “We design architecture that is not only functional and beautiful today, but will remain so over time,” says Thielsen, who is based in the Seattle suburb of Kirkland, WA and has practiced architecture in the Pacific Northwest for nearly 30 years. “Architecture firms need to respond to local settings and environments and thankfully in the last ten years we have seen a shift back to regional design. That building that works in the south probably won’t work in the northwest.” What works is the detailed services Thielsen Architects provides for their clients. An initial feasibility study determines if the property is a viable building site, and their intense site analysis includes investigation of zoning restrictions, geotechnical issues and environmentally sensitive areas. “During our programming phase we meet with our client, set out sketch paper and everyone gets pencils and we all sketch together,” says Thielsen.

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“We encourage them to sketch their ideas during the preliminary design process. We want our clients to address their relationship with space and functionality issues.” This close working relationship with the client minimizes unexpected changes during the preliminary design and design development process. Thielsen stands out from its competitors during the advanced visualization process, which has been recognized regionally and nationally for the quality of their computer-generated images and animations. “Our clients do not completely understand our process until after they have moved in and lived in the house,” says Thielsen. “When they do, and see how all of their individual needs are met, they know it is a success.” A lot of that success is the result of Thielsen’s spatial organization and environmental concepts in design. “It is important to me to create space with natural light and balancing it from more than one source,” says Thielsen. “We want to create spaces that are light-filled and exciting to be in. We like the fact that our clients do not have to turn on lights until after the sun goes down.”

01 Perched on the upper level, the master bedroom enjoys an unrestricted view of Lake Washington and the Seattle city skyline from the floor to ceiling windows. Natural daylight and air flow is balanced by operable windows on three walls of the bedroom 02 The lake side of the home features three levels, each with its own exterior space. The covered patio on the lower level connects the recreation room to the lawn and lake. The large concrete deck on the main level offers both covered and open areas while the private deck on the upper level provides commanding views and a direct connection from the master suite. The stepped design of the upper floor allows lake views from each of the children’s bedrooms 03 Simple shed forms are juxtaposed, creating the winged roof line of the Joyous House. These forms create volume within the great room and master suite while introducing natural light deep into the home and facilitating natural ventilation

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05 03

“These are the goals we are trying to achieve with every client and we are happy that we are among the founders of the green design movement in this region,” says Thielsen. As the region recovers from the design era based on Spanish-style homes requested by over a decade of new residents from California, Thielsen is glad to see architecture firms return to their roots, which include modern split-level homes like his criticallyacclaimed Lakeview Cottage residence.

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“That whole era in design did not make any sense to me,” he says. “I purposely limit my practice to parts of the country where I am familiar with their environment. I have turned down work because I felt I was not qualified to do a project well enough to maintain my credibility and reputation.” The credibility and reputation of Thielsen Architects is solidified by their satisfied clients. So much in fact that Thielsen allows prospective clients to tour the homes of former clients so they can receive the first-hand client experience and examine the end results of the process. “We enjoy allowing a past client to host a prospective client so they can talk privately about the experience,” says Thielsen. “I tell all my clients that I can put a pretty face with any building; but a building is like dating in a personal relationship--you may be infatuated with what is outside, but it is what is inside that really matters.”

Joyous Renovation The 2,060-square-foot residence is the result of renovations done to a 1960's home located in Kirkland, WA. The house is divided into two spaces; one for the three bedrooms and the other for the rest of the rooms, including two bathrooms and a reading loft. The home also features a covered porch, which allows the homeowners to mingle with neighbors. but the walk through areas at Lakeview increases floor area,” says Thielsen.

a message from Structural Designs Thielsen Architects has clarity of vision and design intent that elevates their projects from above average to spectacular. At Structural Designs, we value our relationship with Thielsen Architects, and are proud to partner with them to provide engineering design.

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photo: Art Grice

Thielsen Architects strives to maximize natural light in the interior while using building forms to minimize summer solar heat gain. These activities include sizing and locating roof overhangs, canopies, trellises and other building elements. The goal is to provide excellent natural ventilation for houses to remain comfortable in the summer without the use of air conditioning. This is done by taking advantage of the site microclimate, a thoughtful arrangement of interior spaces and carefully locating and sizing operable windows.

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Cal Petrescu Architecture & Design Architect returns to design after developing retail destinations by Amy Howell Hirt Architect Cal Petrescu is behind the brick-andmortar image of several well-known consumer brands. In the early 1990’s, he was busy building Tiffany’s worldwide presence after designing classic looks for Brooks Brothers stores. He later helped develop the fresh, funky look that’s become synonymous with Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters locations, and was responsible for the planning and construction of stores for names like Levi’s and the Discovery Channel. But in 1999, the Scarsdale, NY-based architect left the corporate world behind and established his own brand, Cal Petrescu Architecture and Design, where he uses his creativity and retail experience to bring clients’ visions to life. For Petrescu, designing one to three-million dollar homes rather than one to three-million dollar stores brings him back to where he loves to be, fully immersed in the details of a project.

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“Architects have various talents. I always had a passion for design, and now I made the time,” he says. Just as in the retail world, he relies on his ability to read clients’ lifestyles in order to balance aesthetics and cost, and excels at finding the relevant ground between dissimilar interests and styles. A young family in Scarsdale presented one such challenge: They asked Petrescu to bring an urban touch to their 4,200-square-foot colonial home to help differentiate the outside from their cookiecutter neighbors, without disturbing the neighborhood’s traditional feel. Petrescu navigated the request by “putting a little twist on the outside,” he says. While features like gables and well-proportioned, “beefy” columns at the entrance solidify the classic look, a secondary, lower roof line, oversized bay windows and an eyebrow window bring a contemporary feel to

the old standard and introduce the mix of styles inside the home. The open staircase, a true expression of interpretive modernism, with minimalistic treads, angular oak posts and sleek stainless-steel balustrades greets guests with a smart, urban style. The family-friendly kitchen balances cool modern features, like the absolute black granite countertops, with the warmth of natural oak cabinetry. On some projects, the challenge facing Petrescu is how to answer the homeowner’s needs, yet leave the exterior untouched. In another Scarsdale home, Petrescu explains, a “tall” couple was looking to add onto their home and longing for 20-foot ceilings and transitional interiors, but lived in a “Hanseland-Gretel gingerbread-style” cottage. To vertically expand the interior space without sacrificing the architectural integrity of the 1920’s structure, Petrescu simply “scooped out” parts of the second floor without altering the deeply

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pitched roofline. This created soaring ceilings in the two-story entry hall and exposed second-story dormers that draw the eye upward and drench the space in natural light, setting the stage for the grand, sun-lit family room and kitchen. Creative lighting is an integral part of Petrescu’s work–whether to direct sales in a store or to highlight a home’s features. Task cable lighting floats over the kitchen island and is discreetly supplemented by indirect lighting of the high ceilings. Perhaps through his exposure to advertising and public relations campaigns in the corporate world, Petrescu has a heightened awareness of perspective and how it can be manipulated. On the additions built to the left and right of the original house, he repeated the home’s tudor façade but angled the additions and added various projections and dormers to “visually subdivide” the bulk and create wings that disguise the 100-foot-length and help retain a cozy character. “Lower rooflines give it a more ‘human’ scale, not like a ‘McMansion,’” Petrescu says. “It reads as a collection of authentic, small cottages.” While there’s no comparison between the scope of a typical home and a commercial development, Petrescu says, “Today’s residential design demands the same or more knowledge of current trends,” and a much larger scope of options.

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Boris Baranovich Architects, P.C. Architect firm boldly reinterprets English country classicism and blends it with American traditions by Melissa Fears Architect Boris Baranovich has been delivering extraordinary, and livable spaces for more than 25 years. The creations by this New York-based architectural firm and his eight associates are broad in scope—from classic English to traditional and contemporary—always remaining solid in execution. From start to finish Baronovich is at the construction site ensuring every meticulous detail, from the drawings and sketches, is carried out.The business philosophy of this fast-growing company is classically unique, always taking an original approach. “Just like anything else every design evolves over time, there’s a newer fresher look at something,” Baranovich says. A project not only needs to be fresh and evolved, but it’s especially important to the firm for the project to be accessible. Each decoration complements the room. “Whether its a contemporary thing or classical thing or traditional, it still has to function as a modern house; that’s our guiding principal,” says Baranovich. Each client’s taste is vastly different so it’s important to stay flexible.

“There’s so much information surrounding you, that even if you aren’t aware… by instinct it attracts your eye,” says Baranovich. Greatly influenced by his travels abroad, his rooms are often distinguished by a seductive combination of spirited color schemes and lavish fabrics. “What I find most important is that you have to have a sense of place,” he says. “You don’t want to do something just to be done.You want to have a place.” New York City is the place to be for any aspiring designer because of its multi-cultural influences

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that allows for creative freedom. As a native New Yorker, Baranovich has thrived not only as an architect, but as an interior designer. “When I worked with David Easton, one lesson that I learned is that architecture is not independent of what goes in the room,” says Baranovich. “You learn that lighting, what goes in the room, the furniture and everything else contributes to the atmosphere as a whole.” “Working in interior design and architecture is wonderful because you’re having full control of

a space rather than just part of it,” he says of his recent work adding interior design to his resume five years ago. Learning interior design wasn’t the only challenge Baranovich has had to learn. He says that being realistic in your market is extremely important. “There are only three people in the room, the architect, the owner and the budget,” says Baranovich. “No matter who it is you never have an open checkbook… It actually makes all the creative juices flow better because you work harder to cre-

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photos: Chong B. Tan

“Sometimes a client starts very traditional then over time they start to shed their possessions wanting to start having simpler cleaner lines so it becomes more contemporary,” he says. Clean lines are nothing new to this veteran designer. At an early age, Baranovich was inspired by the work of David Easton, a celebrated self-proclaimed neoclassicist whom he worked under early in his career. This relationship and his keen eye for detail have led Baranovich to acclaimed design success.

Greystone Residence This elaborate fieldstone home in Conyers Farm, CT is anything but modest. “When you look at English homes, everything is bold and nothing is subtle,” Baranovich says of the vibrant color choices. “They used different rooms for each part of the day, so the rooms reflect that and the mood.” Choosing rich reds and wood tones for the library and living room, the client, who acted as the decorator, incorporated English classicism to its finest with embellished interiors and lustrous walls. “The homeowner wanted the family room to be cozier and more English; there’s almost a gothic-like ceiling motif,” he says. The estate, with its sweeping white and mahogany staircase and white Roman columns, has a truly classical center with the kitchen, family room, garage on one side and the living room, library and upstairs master suite on the other. The homeowners are left complete with a breathtaking panoramic view of the rolling hills and lawn from the main house.

ate something sometimes for less.” Every successful project begins with the dreams and collaborations of the client and architect. “It’s like a painter starting with a new painting; the hardest thing is to face an empty canvas,” says Baranovich. Always up for a challenge and never liking to start with a preconceived idea, the blank canvas of the Greystone Residence was perfect for Baranovich and his team. This massive estate in Greenwich, CT has created elaborate details replete with alluring delights. Completed in 2004, Baranovich’s design is a sixbedroom 10,000-square-foot home, which has a paneled library, gourmet kitchen, master suite and formal dining area with an exquisite French mural. This North County Greenwich classic home, complete with acres of rolling landscape, tennis court, barn and guest cottage, is perfected with a grey stone exterior. Bringing glamour and warmth, Baranovich does what he does best and summons distinguished English design using classically inspired pieces interpreted for the modern age. “You take their dream and put it into realistic construction terms,” says Baranovich.

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Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort

Featuring: SOCO Interiors j. Richard Watson Construction Jones-Clayton CONSTruction Toni Sims Issa Homes Cahill Derrick Builders Goehring & Morgan Construction Design Specifications Ray Coudriet Builder

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or generations, children across the world have traveled to Disney resorts in Florida and California in search of their own happily ever after. Under warm skies, children and their families commune with Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck as a kind of renewal. But often those happy trips are over in just a few nights. What if you could actually build a home inside the park?

In the last half-century, the Disney company has continuously expanded its brand from animation, movies and theme parks to include a variety of lifestyle and travel opportunities from cruise ships to resort hotels. Perhaps the one offering missing was a luxury homes community. Enter Golden Oak, comprised of 81 intended lots with the first eight homes--built in a traditional Floridian blend of Caribbean and Mediterranean influences--recently completed, in addition to a private residents’ clubhouse with a restaurant, fitness center and pool. “We think we do a very good job meeting their needs and creating magical memories, but this is the first time a fan could own a home at Disney World,” says Paige Pierce, the development’s Vice President. “We’re finding that this appeals to a lifelong Disney fan.” Another part of the Golden Oak development is a new Four Seasons Hotel.

photo: Rixon Photography

Although Disney is new to the home-building market, the company is already experienced at providing matchless service and amenities. “We have unique services and access that is just exclusive for Golden Oak residents,” Pierce says. “You have access to the hotel and its restaurants, spa and golf course.” Pierce also says that Golden Oak offers private clubhouses and transportation access to the theme park, making the community not only livable, but also enjoyable. “We’re finding though that there are families who would like to call Golden Oak their first home,” Pierce says. “They say, ‘This is where we’d love to live and raise our children. We’re also finding a good percentage of our customers are looking for us to furnish the homes as well,” Pierce says. “We think it’s the ultimate resort community.” oOo

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Soco Interiors Jill Cotton and Natalie Kibler Work to Make Each Village Home Unique by Christine Cox

ill Cotton, principal at Soco Interiors in Winter Park, FL, has enjoyed a long relationship with Issa Homes, the builder her firm worked with on the Golden Oak team.

“When they came to us to join this project, we were thrilled,” says Cotton. “From the beginning we were excited about the unique opportunity to be included on a Disney property project.” Natalie Kibler, a senior interior designer at Soco Interiors, worked as the lead designer on the 4,272-square-foot Issa model home, which was completed in August 2011. “Most of the Village homes are built as vacation homes, so they need to be easily maintained for the owners since they aren’t there year round,” says Kibler. “So we kept that in mind when we were designing the interiors.” Since all of the homes have the same amenities, it was easier to be consistent in design materials, while still customizing per each owner’s requests.

‘heavy themes,’” says Kibler. They designed all the bedrooms in a non-gender specific way, and chose to decorate with a ‘classic’ look.

tiles with modern Tuscan details.” The plumbing fixtures in both the baths and kitchen feature an Italian flare.

“When we work on a model home, we want it look as if people already live there,” says Cotton. “We use original art in the house, place live plants and trees throughout.” Soco introduced products like Caesarstone in the kitchen and paired it with a hand-painted tile. “We kept the finishes somewhat light, and the baths have contemporary

“Soco Interiors is excited to continue working in the Golden Oak community. We love what we do and are fortunate to work with Issa Homes on such a wonderful and unique project” says Cotton. Soco is currently working on projects throughout Florida and various states such as North Carolina and Ohio. oOo

When designing the model home, as Soco often does for builders, Kibler says that she tried to introduce a contemporary twist in the overall theme. “Generally, if the wood flooring is dark, we keep the wall colors light and creamy.” Disney places strong emphasis on landscape architecture, so the interior palettes are made to match the natural exterior colors. “Full height windows offer a view of everything beyond your lot,” Kibler says. “The floor plans are open, so the outside of the house is an extension of the interior.” From the upstairs of the Issa/Soco model, there’s a view of the fantastic fireworks display that Disney hosts at the Magic Kingdom every night. “It’s very festive and potential buyers get a kick out of this feature.” Kibler says that the style of the home feels elegant but casual. “We use furnishings that are very collected and transitional; we try to stay away from

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photos: Doug Scaletta

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J. Richard Watson Construction Experienced construction company builds strong relationships by Brian Libby

wenty-five years ago, Rick Watson of J. Richard Watson Construction relocated from his native Tennessee, to Orlando, FL. The result, a quarter century later, is a vast portfolio of luxury homes and an extensive list of satisfied homeowners.

Their dedication to quality, integrity and client satisfaction has resulted in J. Richard Watson Construction becoming one of the premier custom home builders in the Orlando area. “Home building is something I've always had a passion for,” says Watson, President of J. Richard Watson Construction. Their creativity and unique design fit well with the vision for Disney’s Golden Oak community. “When you have [as much] hands-on experience in home building as I have, you earn respect of your team because you’re not asking them to do anything that you haven’t done,” says Watson. “It’s a team we’ve had for many years. We expect them to build a house like they would want to live in.” J. Richard Watson Construction earned the privilege of building the Estate and Grand Estate homes in the Carolwood and Silverbrook neighborhoods of Disney’s Golden Oak development.

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photos: Lawrence Taylor

Watson credits much of his success to the relationships that he has developed with the area’s most talented craftsmen and design professionals. “Mutual loyalty between a builder and his subcontractors is crucial to the quality of construction in a well built home,” Watson says. He also cares about the J. Richard Watson staff, loyal enough that no one has ever left the company. “My employees understand the importance of making sure our home owners have a great building experience. You’re only as good as your last house,” says Watson. Watson and his team take pride in creating and maintaining strong relationships with their home owners. “You can’t spend enough money in advertising to get the kind of referrals that your past clients give you for free,” says Watson. Their loyalty to their clientele can be seen through many of the homes they have built throughout the community. oOo

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“It’s a team we’ve had for many years. We expect them to build a house like they would want to live in.” J. RICHARD WATSON, Principal

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Jones-Clayton Construction Award-winning builder stays true with authentic details by Christine Cox

ial Jones, President of the award-winning construction company, Jones-Clayton Construction in Orlando, FL, has enjoyed a long, 25-year track record in Central Florida as a premier luxury home builder. As one of the original Celebration builders (the town Disney founded near Orlando in 1994) it comes as no surprise that his team was selected to work on the 980-acre Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort, which was unveiled in 2010.

“Disney has a reputation for insisting on high standards in everything they are involved in,” says Jones. “So when we accepted this project, with great pride, we knew we’d be building architecturally correct, authentic replicas of European homes; from Tuscan to Italianate to Dutch Colonial, and that the details would be of utmost importance and significance.”

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Jones Clayton began building in Silverbrook, featuring estate homes on half-acre lots, and the Carolwood Grand Estate neighborhood, with three-quarter acre lots. Homes are constructed using architectural plans based on a specific pattern book and developer guidelines created by Walt Disney Imagineering. The multi-million dollar homes (priced starting at $1.5 million and going as high as $8 million) are architecturally authentic from roof to foundation, and must be constructed correctly to those classic design standards. “It takes more planning and research to make sure all proportions and details are correct,” says Jones. “But at the end of the day, every house is a truly beautiful, authentically correct home. The specifications are carried through to the landscaping, the roof tiles, the colors.”

For example, the roof tiles on these spectacular homes are created from authentic clay. Usually, contractors build ‘clay-tiled’ roofs by using clay colored, painted concrete tiles. But Golden Oak uses true clay tiles with a bit of irregularity that allows for more texture, more vivid colors, and makes the look of the house appear as if it’s been standing for 200 years. “Golden Oak is one of the few neighborhoods enjoying a good amount of new construction activity in Central Florida right now,” says Jones. Jones says his team is thrilled to be a part of this exceptional project. “It’s our life’s work to provide our clients with the most sophisticated and innovative design for their home, to ensure that it fulfills their highest expectations,” says Jones.We are creating a place that a family will cherish for years, even generations to come.” oOo

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Toni Sims Interior firm and Derrick Builders customize client dreams by Brian Libby

hen Orlando interior designer Toni Sims was a teen, she remembers thinking she wanted to pursue a career in accounting. As the daughter and granddaughter of entrepreneurial artists, Sims grew up in a highly creative environment and developed an eye for balance and scale. She ultimately followed her creative heritage and developed a career in design. Today she heads Toni Sims Design Studio, and is the lead designer for Derrick Builders, one of a select few home builders Disney handpicked to build at Golden Oak--its luxury resort community inside Walt Disney World. “Orlando has been a great place to raise our family and grow our business, people here are friendly and welcoming,” Sims says. Sims possesses an acute vision for color and the ability to blend modern and traditional touches effortlessly, which create a sophisticated yet inviting home environment. “It's vital to communicate with my clients to draw out of them the type of living space they want to create,” Sims says. “My job is to help my clients translate their own personality and lifestyle into wonderful living spaces within their homes.” A San Francisco Bay Area native, Sims and her family took quickly to the Florida way of life. “Florida has a peaceful resort-like feel to it,” Sims says. “The joy for me comes in balancing the elegant with the casual. And of course being from California I bring a fresh perspective to each of my projects. I do love the Santa Barbara look and feel. It's natural and organic and uses many interesting finishes and textures that keep your interest over the years.”

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“My job is to help my clients translate their own personality and lifestyle into wonderful living spaces within their homes.” toni sims, owner

Sims and her colleagues at Derrick sought that same relaxed natural sophisticated balance in designing the estate model home for Golden Oak. “We knew we wanted to showcase a blend of authentic textures and patinas while incorporating some clean updated lines purposefully placed within the overall design. There were times in the process that we really meticulously considered each selection in order to not tip the scale of the style too far one way or the other, we wanted to keep it interesting but never imposing.” oOo

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Issa Homes Celebrity home builder transforms Celebration, Fl by Brian Libby

hen Disney began selecting builders for its resort community, Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort, experience and quality were paramount. It was no surprise, therefore, when Issa Homes was one of the companies chosen. Issa has enjoyed four decades of experience building luxury homes in Florida, dating back to its founding by Francis Issa in 1972, and particularly flourishing when the company joined forces with Arvida, a large Florida developer. Issa has built in communities such as Arvida’s Weston, Baldwin Park, and Lake Nona Golf and Country Club, including homes for local celebrities and former professional athletes like Cortez Kennedy and Bernie Kosar. Issa also spent ten years working in the Disneydeveloped town of Celebration, which sits several miles outside Disney World. Golden Oak represents the culmination of Issa’s experience in the luxury market and working with Disney. The company even relocated from its South Florida headquarters to Orlando to take advantage of the opportunity. “It’s almost like we’ve gone full circle,” says Don Hempel, partner at Issa. “At Disney, they’re huge on customer care. That’s obvious to anyone who has visited their theme parks or stayed in a Disney Resort. We gave them an unabridged list of 400 homeowners and they called every single one of them they could reach.” Obviously,the testimonials were decidedly in Issa’s favor. Issa Homes is one of the builders in Kimball Trace, the Tuscan Village neighborhood within Golden Oak that also is home to Summerhouse, the community clubhouse. “These are some of the smaller homes and tighter lots, but plenty luxurious,” he says. “Disney was looking for true Tuscan architecture, and developed guidelines that builders followed to ensure the massing and detailing of the homes were architecturally correct. The level of architectural detail is extremely important in Golden Oak. We are utilizing all natural materials, such as natural stone and true clay tile roofs.You are not in Tuscany living here, but that sense of romanticism is as present as the Florida sunshine.” oOo

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“You’re not in Tuscany living here, but that sense of romanticism is as present as the Florida sunshine.” don hempel, partner

SUMMER 2012

Your Door and Trim Specialists

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Cahill Florida-based company builds on family-friendly environment by Brian Libby

or more than three decades, dating back to its founding by Steve Cahill in 1977, CAHILL has been one of Central Florida’s most successful home builders. “Customer service has always been a priority for CAHILL, like it is with Disney” says the company’s vice president, Chad Cahill, Steve’s son. “We have a long a history with Disney. There’s a trust that was built between us.”

Building luxury homes like those in Golden Oak at Walt Disney world is “what we do, but it’s a community like no other,” Cahill says. “The opportunity to live just steps away from one of the most if not the most popular tourist destinations in the world is really unique. It’s continuing to do what we have always done but we’re able to design the homes to what we believe the lifestyle to be of a Golden Oak buyer.

steve cahill

chad cahill

Along with customer service, a key for CAHILL is to design a home that fits within its surroundings. Architecturally speaking, if it’s in a neighborhood with homes of Tuscan, French or Mediterranean style, they will design their homes so it works with the existing streetscape. “Designing the inside flow is a priority for us”, says Cahill. “We are always aware of how the house will actually be used, and how people will move around in the space. Being able to truly use the entire home is very important. You can have really cool features but if it doesn’t function it won’t always make a lot of sense.”

bottom photo: Jeremy Flowers Photography

Whether it’s used as a second home or a primary residence, “Our houses are designed around the family spending time together. We have large open kitchens and family gathering areas to watch TV and relax in.” Cahill says. “We try hard on all of our designs to allow the main living areas to open up onto outdoor living space. By opening your living room doors you can take the inside to the outside and further extend your living space. In Florida outdoor space can be used virtually year-round.” Cahill also places a priority on building with green products. “By using green products we are not only helping the environment, but we are allowing the home to run more efficiently. We are always looking for new products that will help the home to be more efficient in its use of energy, as well as be aesthetically pleasing to the eye.” oOo

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photos: Rixon Photography

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Derrick Builders Family-owned builder creates charming, luxurious spaces by Christine Cox

“It was a highly competitive process; being picked among the seven builders chosen to execute this development was a huge honor,” he says. Koger started in 2010 with the first Golden Oak model home in the Estate division. “It sold shortly after the building process began” he says, “and we’ve already sold five more.”

As a lead builder on the Celebration, FL community creation, completed in 2008, Koger has enjoyed a long relationship with the Walt Disney World empire, and naturally was approached to join the carefully selected team of builders for Golden Oak.

Estate homes range in sizes from 5,000 to 10,000 square feet of living space, totaling between 8,000 to 13,000 square feet, and Koger confirms that the elevations and the materials all follow very strict standards that set Golden Oak

apart. “The interiors are appointed by the builders, so each builder does things a little differently,” he says. “But buyers expect 5-star finishes, and we make sure to deliver.” According to Koger, buyers purchase the lot they like and then interview the builders and make the selection as to which builder they want to use. “It’s highly competitive, and we love it. We are pleased with our sales to date,” Koger says, Koger also talks about the authenticity of the architectural finishes and materials. “We use

Photo: Michael Lowry Photography

errick Koger has owned Derrick Builders in Orlando, FL, since 1989. As a residential home builder, he’s witnessed the ups and downs in the housing market on the Southeastern coast, but it hasn’t dampened his love for the business. “Both of my kids work for me,” Koger says. “The three of us make a great team.”

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copper for the gutters, high-end wood casement windows, super-lush landscaping packages.” He foresees the street scape to be spectacular in 10 years or so, rife with character because of the raw, earthy materials used to create the vision.

a message from Cabinetry Dynamics At Cabinetry Dynamics it is all in the details from start to completion. The quality of our product begins with the design phase and continues throughout the project. By ensuring that all our clients’ needs and wants are fulfilled, the end product is always a beautiful yet functional space. Our goal is always to maintain the highest quality with superior customer service. a message from The Flooring Center The Flooring Center has been and will continue to be a leader in the Central Florida market, catering to the premier custom builder and quality oriented consumer. We are proud to have been chosen by Cahill Custom Homes, Goehring & Morgan Construction, Jones Clayton Construction, Derrick Builders, and J. Richard Watson Construction Company as their excusive supplier of hardwood and carpet for the Golden Oak community. We would welcome the opportunity to have you visit our award winning showroom and look forward to working with you on your next project.

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PhotoS: Michael Lowry Photography

Koger explains that the Estate homes have lots of courtyard space meandering and mitigating to continue the house while making it the size you want. “These homes are very graceful, charming, and quiet, regardless of their size. It’s what I call ‘calmed-down architecture.’ One gets a very ‘garden’ feeling.” Koger also believes the Golden Oak development is one with great vision. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to build a development patiently and to do it right.” oOo

ARCHITECTs

At Derrick Builders, we strive to create a home that reďŹ&#x201A;ects quality and warmth inside and out. With an attention to detail accompanied with an honest desire to satisfy, we set about the task of creating truly one of a kind residences that are not only beautiful, but also built to stand the test of time.

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Ron Manzo Design, www.ronmanzodesign.com | Toni Sims Design Studio , www.tonisimsdesign.com lHQ

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Goerhing & Morgan Construction company focuses on local craftsmanship by Christine Cox

PhotoS: Michael Lowry Photography

rom a handful of carefully-selected builders, native Floridians Kim Goehring and Chris Morgan of Goehring and Morgan Construction, Inc. were honored to be chosen to work on homes within Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort. Also having been a part of building the Celebration, FL, community, the 28 year old firm, known for its fine craftsmanship, developed a showcase home for the Kimball Trace neighborhood of the gated development, drawing inspiration from old-world Mediterranean and Caribbean architecture. “Sales started over a year ago for these luxury homes, but the concept began several years ago” says Goehring. “We are looking at a 10- to 12year-long build-out.” But what makes this project unique to all other projects the team has executed over the years can be described in three words: extremely high standards. “Golden Oak is just exciting. Disney standards are different from anywhere else in the world,” says Morgan. “Their market is worldwide; this opportunity has given us a worldwide showcase, an opportunity to reach out to the entire world.” Goehring points out that the architectural details are ‘almost unheard of in this business.’ “Even when a house is finished, there is a review board that comes through to inspect every detail. The pattern book we follow is very lengthy; from the front doors to the dormers to the porches and window sizes; we have to stick with what is historically accurate at all times.” Being true to the architectural style of each country/region repre-

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sented is key to this project. The only time there is any leeway is if the builder can prove historical context or precedent.

shipped in from France.” But, he says, all of the sub-contractors are from Florida, helping to keep the state working.

“Disney is all about ‘making dreams come true’,” Goehring reminds us. “When you build houses like these, you’re making homeowners’ dreams come true for the owners and their children and their grandchildren. It’s an exciting, spectacular way to build!”

These homes are green certified by the USGBC. “The expectation for every Disney client is perfection. We want to follow that pattern in every way possible,” says Morgan. Goehring & Morgan has partnered with some of the finest architectural and interior design firms in the coastal South to create specially unique living spaces. They work alongside and closely with homeowners to ensure an exceptional experience during the building process. oOo

While most of the materials used to build these homes are made in the USA, there are times when things have to be imported. “For instance,” Goehring says, “the clay tiles for roofing were

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a message from Millennium Systems Design From consultation to installation, Millennium Systems Design, Inc are experts at providing the best in audio and video systems. We have the ability to work effectively with every client, architect, builder, designer or necessary entity to integrate the perfect system within your home. Our engineers marry world-class technology with the best in design and construction for a flawless system that compliments your style and design. By blending these components seamlessly we ensure complete customer satisfaction.

SUMMER 2012

PhotoS: Michael Lowry Photography

a message from Holloway Plumbing Company Holloway Plumbing has had the honor of serving Central Florida since 1979. We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of the plumbing industry in design and new technology installation. Experience the difference “Quality Without Compromise” brings to your project. Knowledge, Commitment, Trust..

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Design Specifications This design team Works Together to Make Each Village Home Unique by Christine Cox

endy Kensler of Design Specifications in Maitland, FL likes the fact that her team has previously worked alongside Cahill Homes and Goehring & Morgan, and was happy to be chosen to partner with them for the homes in Kimball Trace, the Tuscan village neighborhood of the Golden Oak project. Kimball Trace includes home sites up to one-quarter acre as well as Summerhouse conservation area. “When a buyer selects one of the villa homes, they then meet with us to go over their interior specifications,” Kensler says. “We discuss everything from tile to cabinet hardware. Design Specs created three style packages for owners to choose from so that buyers can decide between a Tuscan, Santa Barbara or transitional look. “In one meeting an owner can choose everything they need,” says Kensler, whose firm has specialized in new home design in Central Florida for over 25 years.

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PhotoS: Michael Lowry Photography

“Since the villas are generally considered second homes, we pre-selected a fantastic package of choices within our budgeted allowances from the builders,” says Kensler. “And it’s exciting to work on those! When our first homeowner moved in, everything was completely ready. Not only was her home fully furnished, but art was hung and beds were made. We even stocked the baths and kitchen, right down to the Tupperware so she could arrive with just her clothes and her toothbrush.” Kensler’s voice delights with the memory of the homeowner’s first look at her new, fully furnished home. “We just love this project! These are really great houses to work on. The buyers are always in a good mood! After all, they’re going to live at Disney World, where dreams come true,” Kensler says. “People see these as family homes that they’ll pass down from generation to generation, so they’re excited to make them special. They’re making memories and it’s fun to watch.” oOo

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Brilliance

with the touch of a button.

Ray Coudriet Builder bringing unique touches to Orlando by Brian Libby

hen Ray Coudriet Builder of Orlando was named America’s top custom homebuilder in 1998, it was the culmination of a long career. Coudriet himself had built his first home at the age of 20, borrowing money from an auto executive-client of his builder father when the banks found him too young. But since then, success has only continued with clients from basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal to Disney. Coudriet believes his company’s success starts with his team members. “We’re fortunate to have the pick of the litter,” he explains. “You put a good team together and it clicks very well.” The company first worked with Disney in the town of Celebration, but eventually came to focus instead on Central Florida’s luxury market, building homes in well-known communities like Isleworth, Cypress Point, Isle of Osprey, Lake Butler Sound and Windsong, which have attracted numerous celebrities and professional athletes.

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Hence the relationship with Shaq. “We became friends when he first came to Orlando to play for the Magic,” Coudriet says. “Soon I was doing all of his construction work, and over the years he would constantly be adding on: an indoor gym, or another garage.The last one we did had five more bedrooms and a pool he calls ‘Shaq-apulco’ where you can dive off the rocks into the water. He’s very charitable and a good person. He’s a big jokester, a big kidder.” Coudriet and O’Neal even formed a spec-home building business together called Coudriet Custom Shaqs. When applying to build in Disney’s Golden Oak development, Coudriet had a helpful bit of experience. The company previously built a home for the president of Walt Disney World Resort. “On that house we did a bunch of hidden Mickeys,” Coudriet says of the project’s wrought iron staircase and other architectural elements containing the three-circle outline of Mickey Mouse’s head and ears. Beyond the recommendation of any one client, though, the company prides itself on craftsmanship. “I like to far exceed the code and pair up with people known for doing it right,” he says. “It was such a natural blend. Once I looked at the project and the locations, I knew it was a home run. It’s such a unique offering, and it’s exactly what Orlando needed and didn’t have for all these years. To have these kinds of homes being built and sold in today’s market tells you they’re doing it the right way.” oOo

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Dedicated contractors, with a unique approach, pay keen and thoughtful attention to remodeling residences and homes from the ground up

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builders

Foster Design Build Century-old residence receives updated look by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford Builders face many challenges and obstacles during the design process, but Foster Design Build faced a unique challenge for its remodel project in Chicago – the Secret Service. “The house is 108 years old and is next door to President Obama’s Hyde Park residence,” says Robert Berg, president of Foster Design Build. “We shared a driveway with the President and had Secret Service vehicles and bomb-sniffing dogs on our property. Overall, they were fantastic to us—it wasn’t an easy process but they made it easy as possible; it was a once in a lifetime project.” The project, located at 5040 South Greenwood, was showing every year of its century-old age. Cracked windows, a falling ceiling and a completely dilapidated exterior were the starting points for Foster Design Build. Foster Design Build also dealt with the City of Chicago’s Department of Landmarks to ensure the brick

exterior façade met requirements of matching the original design. Inside, the contemporary design tastes of the client perfectly complemented the historic residence. 5040 South Greenwood can be controlled completely by iPad, iPhone, Mac or personal computer. A 14-foot island is featured in the kitchen that also has a modern, sleek fireplace. “I brought my commercial construction management experience and philosophy into the residential projects,” says Berg, who began his career leading commercial construction projects in high-rise buildings, factories and schools. His clients included the U.S. Navy, Northwestern University, American Airlines at O’ Hare Airport and the Hospital for Great Lakes. “When I began I was surprised how unsophisticated and unorganized the residential process was, and often it showed in the quality of the home,”

01 The living room in the historic residence looks out onto a terrace complete with French doors 02 Foster Design Build was relieved of the historical development design restrictions for the rear of the 5040 South Greenwood property. RCP insulated panel, stainless steel slate grey railings and custom windows by Pella give the property a distinct look 03 The sitting room is colorfully decorated with a bold red table and mustard-yellow armchairs 04 A rolling ladder was a key part of the client request for the mudroom, as the lockers are home to the children's electronics, backpacks and school supplies 05 The spare bedroom features a palette of bright colors and a custom light fixture as a centerpiece. The home also features three children's bedrooms uniquely designed for each child's preference

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Artcraft Construction elegant tile services for clients across the Chicagoland area

photos: Katrina Wittkamp

PH. 773.491.1873 / F. 630.968.1470 JULYURSUS@GMAIL.COM luxuryhomequarterly.com

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he says. “It was very frustrating to me, and I knew we could do so much better if we worked like professionals and returned every call.” The professional environment at Foster Design Build is fostered with an efficient small staff, and Berg is accompanied by a Chief Financial Officer, an office manager/interior designer, an additional interior designer, two full-time project managers and two construction management student interns. The physical environment is also important to Foster Design Build, as the team is committed to using healthy and environmentally-friendly building practices. With a motto of ‘treading lightly on the earth,’ they implement sustainable solutions to achieve the desired outcome for their clients. Client service and intensive construction management are the foundation of Foster Design Build, as all projects are designed to exceed client expectations. “We began Foster Design Build in January 2010—right in the middle of the recession,” says Berg. “We knew client satisfaction and project management would establish us—we have no competition.” Foster Design Build has established themselves so quickly by implementing a strict, innovative proj-

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ect management schedule. Clients can view all projects via streaming video to ensure the highest level of client engagement for transparency. Property managers are assigned to one house each, instead of attempting to oversee multiple projects. “Our projects managers are on site 12 hours a day until the job is complete,” says Berg. “That is rare in the residential construction industry.” Foster Design Build’s success is rare in the new economic status, but so is their attention to detail. “When you orchestrate a job we believe you have to have the highest level of attention to detail – 100% of the time,” says Berg. The 5040 South Greenwood project is a testament to their philosophy, as shown by renovating the original 6,000-square-foot home in an 11,000-square-foot manor. “Our clients were very patient and that helped immensely,” says Berg. “The home has amazing attributes and the historical district location allowed us to show the high quality of our project management process. We truly do it right and have the results to prove it.”

a message from ArtCraft Construction Providing elegant tile services for clients across the Chicagoland area, Artcraft Construction has earned a reputation of quality and integrity by general contractors and homeowners alike. Meticulously placing each tile, Artcraft employees strive for perfection while aiming to exceed customer expectations. Ranging from simple backsplashes to sophisticated murals, Artcraft has been creating works of art for over eight years.

a message from Brian Allendorfer Co., Inc. Contractors Since 1885…A Family Tradition For 5 Generations. Brian Allendorfer Company was chosen to install the Energy-Star performance rated roofing system, custom-fabricated decorative copper cornice and stainless steel fascia and gutter system. Their expertise, which has been handed down for five generations was a perfect fit for this project that involved both historic renovation and modern design.

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photos: Katrina Wittkamp

215 Coffee Pot Drive | Sedona, AZ P. 928.204.5542 | F. 928.282.2002 Mon-Fri: 9am to 5pm Saturday: 8am to 2pm

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builders

De Tar Construction A custom company built on small-town friendships by Amy Howell Hirt On Joel DeTar’s website, there are plenty of comments that attest to his skills as a custom builder. Satisfied customers applaud his attention to detail, professionalism and craftsmanship. But just as many offer unexpected words of gratitude, thanking him for his “warm personal friendship.” In the small towns of Sedona and neighboring Cottonwood, AZ, DeTar has had a hand in many of the custom homes constructed, but also in making sure a local food bank has enough resources for holiday meals and that a youth soccer team has a shot at the championship. Since moving to the area from Detroit in 1973, DeTar has become embedded in the community - volunteering with local foundations and building true friendships that support his 31-year-old business. DeTar has never needed to build outside the local area--which is home to about 25,000--or to invest in advertising. New business comes strictly through referrals, and most of his new friendships evolve from satisfied clients, DeTar says.

“That’s my favorite part of the job,” he says. “The vast majority of my friends are people I’ve built for in the past.”

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photos: Gene Sasse

Although DeTar builds homes that span from traditional Craftsman styles to curving contemporary creations, he works with the same architectural firm – Design Group Architects – on many of them, and often uses the same contractors. The goal is to pump dollars back into the local community, but DeTar has found that this sense of hometown responsibility also means the work will be on time and high quality.

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builders

The Gelb Residence

The 3,100-square-foot home by Design Group Architects (www.designgrouparchitects.net) is built on a steep, restrictive site at the top of a red rock canyon. Custom work by local artisans, including a curving leather couch by Design Group Architects, a walnut coffee table in the living room by Mike Bartell (www.mikebartell.com), a copper backsplash and range hood by metalworker David Platt (www.3dogstudio.com) and heating-return grills by Les Palmer with Stone Ascension mimic the rugged shapes, terracotta-colored soil, rust-hued buttes and riparian vegetation of the setting. Beyond the stone and stucco exterior, natural materials continue throughout the house, from flagstone floors and custom milled maple ceilings to marble countertops. But the star of the home is a reinforced glass floor in the dining room, which extends three-to 12-feet above the natural ravine. This unexpected drama below is accentuated by the organic energy of a blown glass chandelier by Newt Grover (www.newtglass.com).

As in any tight knit community, there’s not much room for misunderstandings or unsatisfied customers, and DeTar goes to great lengths to deliver a fair price and peace of mind, practicing an “open book” policy with clients. “I have a fiduciary responsibility [to them],” he says. “They know exactly what the costs are and what I’m making.” Although all the homes DeTar builds are local, their inspirations often are far flung, and DeTar is happy to go the distance to understand what a client wants – like traveling to Pasadena, CA, to see the Gamble House. The client, a California native, wanted his home modeled off this landmark of American Arts and Crafts-style architecture. For another client--a retired mathematics professor with an interest in the never ending nature of the Fibonacci principle--DeTar and Design Group Architects created a curving, 4,500-square-foot home that’s designed around 13 different radius points. Despite the diversity of local home designs, DeTar says nearly all clients want to take full advantage of their home sites, located in the heart of Red Rock Country. “It’s a gorgeous place to live, and everyone wants to maintain their vistas,” DeTar says. Liberal amounts of casing free windows and bump outs surround homeowners with views of sunkissed peaks, and the homes themselves seem to grow from the grounds.

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A ground hugging Santa Fe-style home in Seven Canyons incorporates “Anasazi-style” rock walls near the perimeter of the property that bring an archaeological feel to the site. Another home, the Gelb residence, is situated at the head of a tight canyon and embraces the surroundings that envelope it. The curving walls are freeform and unsymmetrical and the four to five ton boulders surrounding it were reclaimed from the site and situated to give the illusion that the home is literally emerging from the earth. “It was interesting having a crane out there swinging these big rocks over the house,” DeTar says. DeTar says here, on-site and in the trenches, is where he’s always been the most comfortable – whether coaching a soccer team, helping local nonprofits or running his business.

01 The living area offers shades of orange and brown, which provide a relaxing quality and pull inspiration from the surrounding landscape and beautiful mountain vistas 02 The modern kitchen with marble, wood and stone finishes offers ample space for cooking while entertaining 03 Glass is the focal point for this dining area, which offers views of the mountain tops ahead and the tree tops below

“I conduct the orchestra and they produce the work,” he says. “Then we let our work speak for itself.”

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01 Large glass doors separate the bedroom and outdoor terrace open to the city below 02 This brightly lit cozy kitchen embraces functionality and stainless steel

Mark Tanner Construction Inc. offering quality at various scales by Andrew Santa Lucia

Described as a “design-build” firm, Mark Tanner Construction approaches each project as a case-bycase scenario. They offer services and a vision of completion through employing design consultants in their office closely working side-by-side to realize ideas. “Because we are so involved with the design and construction of our homes, specifically in their interior/exterior finishes, I have chosen, as a company, to use in-house particular subcontractor trades,” Tanner says. “We have a full cabinet shop and millwork shop.” With that, they “are able to give a client the vision of what they are looking at. We really play a critical role in developing those finish selections, in terms of driving the project towards a completion.” Tanner’s approach focuses on nuance and finish, craft and quality, and a list of other bifurcations that define his firm.

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04 Distressed hardwood floors run throughout the kitchen and living area, adding a rustic feel to the adjoining rooms

The Donner Pass Road mixed-use prototype in the Truckee Rail Yard Project is not different in quality, but definitely in scope. Envisioned by Holliday Development in 2004, Tanner partnered with Holliday to bring the first phase of their plan into reality. The entirety of the Railyard Project calls for phases of redevelopment of this industrial sector, looking to create in-fill urban corridors with living and working incorporated into its architecture. A relationship between, “indoor and outdoor living, is very important in the mountains to develop.” The aforementioned conceptual armature allowed the Donner Pass Road project to achieve similar effects both in its architectural and urban intentions. One sentiment that Tanner stressed is how engaged they have become with the Truckee Railyard Project. Through a continued interest in the local culture and economy they are, “taking a critical role into the future of Truckee, says Tanner. “Tanner was able to be flexible and creative through every step of the process,” says Kevin Brown of Holliday Development, “because this building was a prototype, the design was continually evolving as work continued. Engaging with Tanner on the concept, and having all of those skills and talent inhouse were critical to creating a home that could speak volumes about the potential of downtown Truckee living.” This is of course indicative that they are not only invested in what they develop – buildings, interiors, and built-in furniture – but why they develop – culture, locality, and lifestyle – in a way stretching past the conventional description of what builders do and more concretely saying that they realize environments, both physical and immersive.

Donner Pass Residence Donner Pass Road borders a historic building on one side and an underutilized piece of land on the other. Tanner says he constructed, “a new building and extended a new streetscape to create a more pedestrian welcoming area making it more of interest for shopping and visiting.” Mixing 800 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor and 1,300 square feet of loft living on the top two floors, Donner Pass Road creates identity in its architectural expression, as well as a palpable urban character that will begin to pop up around downtown Truckee. This project has the interior quality characteristic of Tanner’s work, and has become a new character in the urban landscape that is happening in Truckee. Blending the use of historic and local material with a modern sensibility of construction finishes becomes very appealing to old locals and new residents. Familiarity through clean, yet rustic materiality is coupled with contemporary production to create a new look for Truckee without mimicking its past.

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photos: ©VANCEFOX.COM

Since 1994, Mark Tanner Construction has been in the building and custom home industry in Truckee, CA and Lake Tahoe area, completing a myriad of projects, from built-in cabinets, expertly finished homes and infill urbanisms, showing versatility in scale. They have received C.A.T.T.’s Builder of the Year 2007 award in Truckee. Accolades accrued over time can help enable a paper trail of strengths, but when you describe your firm not as a “typical paper general contractor,” the process and progress your work imbues becomes the distinguishing factor between what you’ve done and how you’ve done it. Mark Tanner Construction addresses vision and completion; two elements that can singularly define the fruits of your labor, as mutually entwined in the built product they deliver. Of course, when one focuses too much on either, work can stay as a visual idea or become completely forgettable. It is not a stretch to call Mark Tanner Construction’s work as envisioned completely and easily identifiable.

03 The bedroom's character is complete with multitextured wood and views of the city ahead

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;We work together as a team. We are one segment of that team to bring implementation of that design." Mark Tanner, owner

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building relationships.

European heritage blends effortlessly with new world American design by Andrew Santa Lucia Jablonski Associates, founded by Jeremi Jablonski, is a stellar builder of custom homes in New Canaan and throughout Fairfield County, CT. They have won numerous awards, including the AIA’s People Choice and Electronic House of the Year award, and have travelled as far as Boca Raton to build for their clients.

Lic.#: 827269

Custom Homes | Remodels Cabinetry | Woodwork Design Center

Firm profiles can help paint a general picture of the personal relationships and philosophies that define a firm, but it is not every day that a business has a leader like Jablonski at the helm. He regularly pulls in his Polish heritage and skill with language to create the warm atmosphere he brings to any meeting. “I came from Europe in 1985 and from the very beginning I was fortunate to work for amazing clientele; I met the right people at the right time,” Jablonski says. “I continue to carry some of my old-fashioned European background with the corporate American discipline I use to drive my business.” That is a fairly standard answer for a European transplant, but when asked about the quality of the product Jablonski Associates delivers, he says that, “more exciting to me than the exquisite details and moldings we create for each one of our projects is the technology that is available today to incorporate into the home.” This shows quickly that despite commitment to quality, as well as relevancy, periodicity and confidence, Jablonski Associates is interested in the contemporary, regardless of how traditional or modern their work is. Characterizing Jablonski Associates goes beyond aggrandized descriptions of their craft and quality, instead focusing on the more intangible elements such as identity that sets construction management firms apart. His company’s identity derives majorly from the people he works with. Jablonski has succeeded in “assembling the best team for the project, since each one is different and we can use different players…after all these years, I have the expertise to propose the best players for each situation,” he says. “A

Modern Pool House Modernizing the pool house means crafting an impeccably detailed minimalist project. Located in New Canaan, near Philip Johnson’s modern masterpiece Glass House, Jablonski Associates Pool House reacts not only to the history and location it is situated in, but also to the contemporary necessity of being energy efficient. Opulent, yet subtle, the pool house provides its users with a transparent enclosure that allows for an airconditioned interior break from fun in the summer sun or a much-needed fireplace heated getaway from the frigid Connecticut winters. The brick, wood and glass work together in a performance of material that cannot be more than a 1/16” off. Near perfection in construction gives a modern charm to a contemporary building.

lot of people make a great team, but you need a quarterback; and an architect is like a coach.” Jablonski’s impressive team took their talents to Connecticut when designing for client Philip Johnson and his glass house. When asked the project, Jablonski says, “it is huge! I think that modern architecture is finally coming back (in vogue) and it’s pretty awesome to do this in New Canaan.” Jablonski’s team, who have an affinity for detailing and foresight in contemporary building, have tackled adverse ecological effects of buildings through sustainable building strategies. Jablonski

530.587.4000 MarkTannerConstruction.com SUMMER 2012

photos: Phillip Ennis

building more than just beautiful spaces,

Jablonski Associates

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01 Brick, stone and impressive lighting bring out the features of The Modern Pool House 02 A seating area, complete with a fireplace bring a cozy atmosphere to the pool house 03 The Jablonski Associates “A Cellar to Envy,” holds more than 4,000 bottles of wine and has ample space for private dining 04 The award-winning “Art Deco Theater,”has a 1930’s aesthetic complete with an LED lighting system by ColorKinetics

Jablonski also believes that the most important part of his practice is “project psychology.” Aside from his project team quarterbacking and his commitment to detail in New Canaan, as well as his understanding of true energy efficiency, Jablonski understands that projects get sidelined all the time, so to realize these visions there is a necessity for “discipline and speed after initial excitement of the project.” This is done to “try and avoid the low point of the job and keep us grounded.” Grounded would be insufficient to describe Jablonski Associates, but their strong personality has grounded them more than the quality of their building foundations have kept their projects standing. That is certain.

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photos: Phillip Ennis

has publicly stated his appreciation of creating environmentally-friendly homes through making them energy efficient using Energy Star’s Rating System. The glaring thing missing from his already vast repertoire of approaches is the absence of chic LEED. monikers. “The problem is widely publicized… builder and architects are not really participating in this (LEED) because of the bureaucracy and because is not as practical, as well as it being a very complicated process of certification,” says Jablonski. “That is why we are more interested in the energy efficiency (ratings), since we can measure the final results…when you do the pressure test on the house; it just shows everything.”

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Custom Homes and Remodeling. Proudly Serving all of Northern Michigan.â&#x20AC;?

AT RENDER CONSTRUCTION,

we believe that truly superior homes are built by people of high character, whose values are marked by honesty, accountability, and a dedication to doing things right the first time. Based on these timeless principles, our goal is to create long-term business relationships; to treat every project as if it were our own; and to stand behind everything we say and do. This is our passion, our mission, and our commitment to our clients.

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ph. 989.786.4801 | ph. 231.499.7754 | renderconstruction.com

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Render Construction Unique, highly customized homes are this Michigan-based builders specialty by Jamie Farshchi Since its establishment in 1999, Render Construction has been charting its own course with elegant design, master craftsmanship and a leading-edge approach to construction that strives for customer satisfaction and efficiency. Behind this full-service firm, which offers general construction, project management and design consultation, is Eric Render. Render prides himself on a creative and flexible approach to each project. “The team is able to be the most effective when we have a full understanding of the clients needs; we don’t have a set process, we have a fluid model and we make adjustments in line with what is best suited for the client.” The company’s central location, in Lewiston, MI, allows Render to cover a large service area, working across Northern Michigan to build predominantly high-end homes and cottages. “We focus not on the number of homes we build but the quality,” Render says. “The projects we work on are highly customized and quite personal so we want all of our clients to get the benefit of our full attention.” The Render Construction team works closely with clients even in the initial design phase of the project.

photos: amphotographystudio.com

“From a feasibility and cost control standpoint, we’ve found we can be a valuable part of the design team,” Render says. With its team of master craftsmen, Render Construction can also execute highly-customized designs. “Our ability to customize offers an immense amount of flexibility to discerning clients,” Render says. “It’s that level of customer service and overall value that has been a key factor in our business thriving during one of the most dismal economic periods in our nation’s history.”

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The Belanger Residence The “Belanger Residence,” a 4,500-squarefoot vacation home located on the famed Chain O’ Lakes of Michigan’s Grand Traverse region, is constructed from locally harvested white and red pine logs, large natural stone and extensive outdoor living areas finished with Canadian granite flagstone. The stonework throughout the project is the work of Sean Dupuie of Dupuie’s Masonry. A large, handcarved entry door by Whitehead Carvings, featuring three bear cubs - representing the client’s three children - is one of the home’s many custom features and was sourced by the homeowner prior to the build. The living area's unique fireplace is constructed from locally-sourced stone and features a large pink stone that was excavated onsite when the home’s foundation was being dug. The color is complemented by an oversized antler chandelier by Arte de Mexico. The communal areas of the home feature heated Idaho silver flagstone flooring, while wide plank black walnut adds warmth to the kitchen, loft and bedrooms.

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Because the company works with clients from all over the United States, they utilize a web-based project management platform that allows clients to login with a secure password to view photos and updates on the progress of their project. “It has definitely added value to our company,” Render says. “The platform centralizes everything so that clients who may live out of the area can still feel that they are a part of the day-to-day action on their project, even from half the world away. It has shortened our build times and made communication with the client and subcontractors more efficient.” Render Construction is a member of the invitation only “Hammers Club,” a network of awardwinning builders from across the United States who meet to compare business practices, with the overall purpose of improving the business of each member. The club is linked to the National Association of Home Builders and consists of 20 builders at any one time working in non-competing markets. “Essentially, it’s about making the commitment to constantly improve and to stay on the cutting

edge of our industry,” Render says. “We have the opportunity to network with the nations top custom home builders from across the country. It gives us a broader perspective and is a great way to improve the business overall. I come back from our bi-annual meetings with a lot of new ideas to bring to our clients.” Render says it is establishing quality relationships with clients in order to build their home that is the most rewarding part of his job. “I enjoy working with people,” he says. “Building a retirement or vacation home is often the culmination of a life’s achievement. It is very important to our clients, so we take our role very seriously.” Render says it is working in the picturesque surrounds of Northern Michigan that motivates his work. “I like to build homes that complement and enhance their surroundings. It is very gratifying to build a home that adds to the serenity of its natural environment. To look back at projects and see what we’ve been able to achieve is a really satisfying part of the job.”

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Comito Building & Design Eco-Friendly innovations offer quality and longevity to custom homes in Cedar Heights by Tara Imperatore Look out one window and catch a glimpse of the Front Range Mountains; glance out another and see the twinkling city lights. Residents in Cedar Heights are doing just that with the recent help of Comito Building and Design. The company has just completed a 7,231-square-foot home in the exclusive gated Colorado Springs community. Custom built from the ground up, the expansive property was finished with only the most innovative features, including various eco-friendly components that include closed cell foam insulation. “There aren’t a lot of people who walk in the door and say they want to build a ‘green’ house but they understand their utility bills,” Claude Comito, owner of Comito Building and Design says.

Comito Building and Design is a third generation custom home building firm with over 28 years of experience. Comito was inspired by his father’s trade as a contractor in New York, and after working with him as a young man, decided to study business and real estate to cultivate his craft. Soon after marrying his wife Debbie, the two moved to Colorado Springs in 1983 and started building luxurious custom homes in the area. Their daughter Lauren recently joined the family business as the operations and marketing manager. Together, they have consistently produced award-winning homes with their “designbuild concept” that combines the collaborative ideas and goals of both the expert architects

The Cedar Heights Residence The newly completed Cedar Heights property from Comito Building and Design showcases advanced technological features and energy efficient construction, all enveloped in breathtaking mountain and city views. With the outdoors being their clients’ passion, the four bedroom, seven-bathroom home contains open air cooking and entertaining spaces, while the interiors reflect its natural surroundings through rich wood, stone and granite throughout. The home’s Outback locale is just 15 minutes from the bustling city but offers serene vistas of Pikes Peak and the Front Range Mountains. “It’s a real blend of suburbia and mountain and park-like environment,” Comito says.

photos: Beightol Photomedia

Along with the more common use of low E glass, low flow toilets and showerheads, Comito has paved the way toward the use of a new environmentallyconscious basic home necessity. “We were the ones to pioneer the use of foam insulation in the Pikes Peak region,” Comito says. “In my mind it’s

a revolutionary thing.” The product works to even out temperature fluctuations in the house, and though slightly more expensive, is a smart investment. “There are not many things you can invest in in terms of energy efficiency and get the pay back,” Comito says.

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and designers with the owner or buyer into one cohesive result. Constructing these beautiful homes in the region’s rugged terrain definitely comes with some obstacles. Varying elevations and multiple soil types require extra attention when excavating and building the foundations. “In the Outback at Cedar Heights it’s mostly rock and organic and clay soil,” Comito says. “Along the Front Range there are fairly challenging soil conditions like clay, rock, sandstone and claystone. One of the things in Colorado we want to be aware of is keeping water away from the foundation.” Knowing that these soils have a tendency to move around, individual tests are taken of each,

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along with a geological survey of the area to ensure the conditions are adequate to begin creating their clients’ dream homes. Comito is looking to take his company into the future with a mission to design and build custom homes that are made with the highest quality in mind. “We deal with mostly people who are building their second or third homes and know what they want and are determined to really do it right this time. But people are very concerned about maintenance and want to keep utility bills low,” Comito says. In compliance with that, Comito Building and Design will continue conceiving and executing custom homes that are going to outlast their clients.

“Their home is going to be there for a long period of time and be relevant in the long run. People are really starting to think long term and are going to spend a little more and do a little better job,” Comito says. “Quality never goes out of style.” a message from Bradford Homes, a Division of Brad's Construction Brad's Construction Inc., has had the pleasure of working with Claude Comito for the past 25 years. We have always had innovative designs, superior subcontractors and highly qualified supervisors to work with. Your attention to the details of each project makes it very successful. As a team we build the projects as if they were our own. Thank you for the opportunity and loyalty you have shown to our company. Brad & Chris Pfeif

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Bradford Homes Inc. a dIvIsIon of Brad’s constructIon Inc.

Rooms to Use, Rooms to Live In. At the end of the day, it’s all about style and function.

Custom Framing at it’s Finest

custom Homes • remodelIng Basement completIons addItIons • decks • Barns resIdentIal • commercIal QualIty Work • skIlled crafstmen

Winner of the NKBA Pinnacle of Design award, Liz Firebaugh, CKD, creates kitchens, baths and unique living spaces for professionals and homeowners alike.

Bradford Homes Bradford pfeIf, presIdent a local, famIly oWned BusIness sInce

colorado sprIngs, co pH. 719.593.8542

1979

231.439.0100 signaturekitchensonline.com Northview Centre, Petoskey, Michigan Liz Firebaugh, Certified Kitchen Designer

painting • staining interiors • exteriors power washing • wallpapering ofﬁce: 231-439-5127 cell: 231-838-2680 fax: 231-439-9154

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The Cottage Company of Harbor Springs partners furnishing extraordinary service by Elisa Revello Rob andVee Mossburg are in the midst of achieving a lifelong dream. After visiting the lakeside resort community of Harbor Springs for many years, the husband-wife team established The Cottage Company of Harbor Springs, a premier building and interior design firm located in scenic northern Michigan. Often compared to Martha’s Vineyard and sometimes referred to as the Aspen of the Midwest, this tiny resort community is an inspiring venue for the creation of their trademark coastal, cottage interiors.

PhotoS: Beth Singer and Cottage Company Interiors

Based in a mixed-use building, the firm overlooks Lake Michigan’s picturesque Little Traverse Bay. The Cottage Company’s footprint can be seen across the country and include a horse ranch in Santa Barbara, a contemporary golf course in Naples, FL, an authentic log cabin and a grand shingle-style cottage on the shores of their beloved town. While Vee and Rob are considered rising stars in the design industry with Cottage Company Interiors, a sister company, they are well known for their meticulous construction of custom homes and development projects. The Cottage Company has been named one of Michigan’s finest builders and has attracted national attention for environmentally-sensitive and new-urbanism inspired development projects. Bay Street Cottages, a sustainable, walkable community of 18 single-family cottages built on a redevelopment site, is a model that exemplifies the use of sensible scale, reusing and recycling, and conservation. The company donated a portion of the project’s profits to a local land conservancy to protect a nearby centennial farm from suburban sprawl. Aside from a conscientious approach to design and construction, Rob and Vee feel that their approach to service separates the Cottage Company Interiors from others in the industry. “We don’t define ourselves as being in the interior design business,” Vee says. “Rather, we understand that we are really in the service business.

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The Cedar Heights Residence Completed in 2011, the project is a redesign of a 20-year old cottage on Walloon Lake, the childhood vacation area of Ernest Hemingway. When Vee Mossburg first visited the cottage she felt that it had lacked personal touches, and she focused on making the home a true reflection of her client. She used shades of yellow throughout the home; the client’s favorite color. A staple of her design aesthetic, Vee incorporated oak tables and family accessories passed down from previous generations. "One of the wonderful opportunities afforded in remodels is the chance to use the best of a client's existing furniture and sentimental pieces," Vee says. The family room, centered on a fieldstone fireplace with original artwork above exudes what Vee says is a "sophisticated take on cottage vernacular." When asked what Vee liked best about the project, she says, "The client! We thank our lucky stars everyday for the extraordinary engagements we undertake and the amazing people who ask us to do so."

To do so, Vee spends an inordinate amount of time getting to know clients, often traveling to their other homes, engaging in social activities and meeting with their children. Vee says she is proud that she cannot recall a client collaboration that has not turned into a friendship. “How can I possibly help my clients–check that, my friends–execute their vision if I don’t understand how they live, how they spend their recreational time, how their physical and emotional worlds interrelate?” Vee says. For the Cottage Company Interiors and their clients, having a designer who also has a building background is a unique capability. “With our building background, we understand the scheduling and budgetary implications of design decisions which makes us exceptional fiduciaries of

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our clients’ resources,” says Rob. “We also consider ourselves a true interior design firm with a strength in developing interior architecture– including trims, moldings, built-ins and other millwork that enhance the furniture and fabrics so important to the overall design aesthetic.” When designing living spaces Vee frequently finds herself surrounded by beautiful natural scenery so she ensures that the interiors are a window to the captivating exterior landscapes and that these spaces “flow” from one to another–considering everything from daily travel patterns to and from the beach to the logistics of cocktail parties. To make the space an extension of the client, Vee often incorporates sentimental family pieces and sources one-of-a-kind products.

creating storybook interiors and lasting friendships along the way. Shortly, they will be breaking ground on their most significant collaboration to date: a new luxury hotel in downtown Harbor Springs whose interiors they enthusiastically describe as “barefoot elegance.”

a message from Signature Kitchens Liz Firebaugh, CKD, of Signature Kitchens, has put her imprint on over 1,000 kitchens. Her designs have been featured in countless magazines and have garnered numerous national awards, including the National Kitchen & Bath Association “Pinnacle of Design,” the nation’s top kitchen design award. Firebaugh’s most memorable designs are collected in her book Design with Taste.

“I’ve been fortunate to have lived in and traveled to many parts of the country, and the world, and have developed a wonderful collection of vendors that can efficiently deliver unique products for our clients,” Vee says.

signaturekitchensonline.com | 231.439.0100 a message from Lakeside Painting A company whose foundation is built on Honesty, Integrity and Customer Satisfaction. We partner with the area's finest craftsmen to provide professional home finishes;

Despite the firms accelerated growth, Rob and Vee have vowed to stay closely connected their clients,

with unmatched customer service. We would be happy to assist you in turning your decorating ideas into reality.

SUMMER 2012

PhotoS: Beth Singer and Cottage Company Interiors

Exceptionally functional, fresh designs are essential but only half of the deliverables. When the entire client experience–from initial consultation to install–in and of itself is enjoyable, that’s when we’ve delivered real, memorable value.”

builders

Evergreen Homes by Gio personal touches to European-style homes

The Strongville Residence

by Melissa Fears

The five-bedroom, six-and-a-half bathroom home has a surprising intimacy about it

The English Tudor style has long been a pervasive influence on the projects of northern Ohio builder Brian Giovinazzi, principal of Evergreen Homes by Gio. Timelessness is echoed in the palette of the firm’s warm, traditional rooms, many of which are conceived while the residences are still in the planning stage. Though the home’s structure is time-honored— Giovinazzi is a great admirer of quintessential English and French country style—the atmosphere he creates is always fresh and relaxing, a contemporary take on the tried and true. Giovinazzi is no newbie on the building scene. Prior to building million-dollar homes, he was a framer for several years. He started his own company in 2005, and has gone on to complete 10-plus homes.

showcased by its intricate craftsmanship details. High ceilings and exquisite millwork highlight the impeccable detail throughout the house. A perfect combination of white

“I’ve become really close friends with a lot of my clients afterwards, Giovinazzi says. “Whether it’s an invitation over for parties or in the sense that we stay connected that in a few years they have an issue, I take care of it.”

and deep-stained custom cabinetry accent the richness of the home’s warm tones. The serene setting and design of this exclusive property features its very own 3,500-squarefoot basketball court, 2,100-square-foot garage, spa and pool with sweeping views of

These dream homes are pulled from deep-rooted influences of French-Country and Tudor styles as Giovinazzi loves to pull inspiration from long drives alongside upscale neighborhoods.

the estate from every window. The elegant home boasts a one-of-a-kind audiovisual system by Dream Space Company, solely reliant on Apple products. “It’s an IP delivered audio video distribution system,” says Giovin-

“There’s just something about old houses with a lot of intricate millwork and beautiful natural stone,” he says.

azzi. “Basically it has a separate mechanical room solely to house these components. All the rooms that have any audio component like a TV, all feeds back to this one room. So

Sophisticated details are nothing new to Giovinazzi’s team. They pulled together to create a traditional European-style home for a sports lover and

instead of having a remote control for your TV, you can use iPod touch, iPad, iPhone. The possibilities are endless,” he says.

photo: Linda Mauck Smith

A small tight-knit company, consisting of his brother, himself, architect Steve Schill and interior de-

signer Jennifer Monachino, of Monarch Interiors Inc. strive to maintain the client-builder relationship even after the project is completed.

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his family after some miscommunications with a previous architect. “He paid good money to have someone design him a house, but he was so unhappy with the way the process was going,” he says. “He told the guy ‘I like this and this’ and when the draft came back the things he wanted weren’t on it. That’s when Steve Schill got involved.” The over 13,000-square-foot home in suburban Cleveland took nearly two years to complete, but the homeowner was beyond relieved and happy. With a full-sized basketball court, locker room and soon to be completed pool and spa, it isn’t hard to understand why.

Featuring:

“He didn’t want it (the court) to look like a big commercial structure attached to his house,” says Giovinazzi. “Steve had to find a way to really blend it into the rest of the house, but also into the landscape.” With the house spanning nearly 190 feet wide, the four-car garage in front masks the main structure of the court.

Lost Creek Stone quarried the natural stone “Wild Horse” and its array of colors blend with the oversized white brick. Asphalt shingles mimic the look of slate tiles and add an affluent touch to the large roof area. Similarly thoughtful details are evident all over the house. A wood and tile inlay floor adds drama to the main entertaining area of the home and by using the same natural stone from the exterior on the fireplace the home feels connected to the outside. Mosaic glass tiles in the range backsplash and adjacent hearth room bring the two spaces together. With a reputation for precisely elegant homes with attention to detail, Evergreen Homes by Gio has, in the short time of their firm’s existence, garnered a stellar list of luxury homes to add to their portfolio.

a message from DreamSpace DreamSpace is a unique, multi-faceted company specializing in Audio/Video design and installation, custom

WEST SHOWROOM 975 Crocker Rd.| Westlake, OH P: 440.892.9400

THOMASBRICK.COM

cabinets, and complete home renovation. We worked closely with Brian Giovinazzi at Evergreen Homes on his latest project, providing his client with a state-of-the-art Audio/Video distribution system. It featured full 1080P

Entertaining is equally important to this busy family, so with a 500-square-foot communal entertainment area in the kitchen, wet bar and hearth room, guests can relax and enjoy themselves comfortably. The kitchen also overlooks the great room, which adds an additional 500 square feet of living space.

video distribution from a variety of sources to each room of this expansive home. The entire system is controlled via iPad and iPhone custom applications. We are proud to be associated with a custom builder such as Evergreen Homes by Gio and appreciate the passion we share for unmatched attention to detail and customer satisfaction.

SUMMER 2012

photo: Linda Mauck Smith

EAST SHOWROOM 27750 Chagrin Blvd. | Cleveland, OH P: 216.831.9116

With a discreet hidden staircase leading from the garage to the court, the rest of the family is left undisturbed when guests come over to play.

Simple luxury, at its best.

Falcon Custom Homes A building team with a shared vision for high-caliber projects by Jamie Farshchi Every Monday evening Nathan Abbott and Dustin Carpenter have a standing invitation for dinner at one of their client’s homes. Their Grand Rapids, MI-based construction company, Falcon Custom Homes, completed a project for a client in 2010, and there have been numerous invitations since, most taking place in the home their team built. “Many of our homeowners have become good friends,” Abbott says. “We have great relationships that often move beyond the project. We look at it as not just a home, but a relationship we’re building that we hope will be long lived.” The two met after graduating from Michigan State University, in 1997 and 1998 respectively. Both studied construction management and went on to work for the same Michigan-based Construction Company before establishing Falcon in 2003. Abbott says it is a relationship that was born from a shared vision and the on the job experience of working with a large residential builder. “We knew that the luxury market is where we wanted to be,” he says, “because that world would give

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us the opportunity to work on the unique details and features that we really enjoy. We also knew what kind of volume of work we wanted to take on and we knew we had to show the market what we could do so we built spec homes and with those projects we proved the caliber of our projects.” A full-service builder, Falcon Custom Homes works with the client to select an architect and designer with whom they work closely to develop plans, select interior design features and build their client’s dream home. The company specializes in luxury primary, secondary and vacation homes. “All our work is within a four-hour radius of Grand Rapids, which encompasses the entire lower part of Michigan,” Abbott says. “The area has a number of high caliber designers and architects. As a builder, we diversify, we’re not pigeon-holed to one style and that’s a testament to the designers we work with who enable us, along with our trade base, to build in a variety of styles.” One of Falcon’s recent projects, a 7,300-square-foot primary residence located in Grand Rapids, was a build that, initially, was scheduled with another build-

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Showroom Locations: Grand Rapids & Saginaw, MI Ph. 616.459.8367

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Grand Rapids Residence This charming, three level, 7,300-square-foot-home located in Grand Rapids, MI houses some unexpected features, such as a split-level basement that functions as both an entertainment area, a full-sized basketball court and a large living space featuring a bar. The exterior is a natural stone veneer with brick details and cedar pattern board at the entranceway, designed to mirror the property's natural environment. The main floor features a built-onsite circular stair which runes from the foyer to the family room, which utilizes a stone fireplace to separate the space from the dining room. The master bathroom includes a clear-glass enclosed shower supplied by local company, Absolutely Glass, with showerheads built into the ceiling. The bathroom also features an elevated tub, which overlooks the bathroom below.

er. It was only after the homeowner saw Falcon’s work in the area that they opted to have Abbott and Carpenter build their home. “We helped him finalize the plans and we did what we call “Falconize” them,” Abbott says. “We added the details we thought were needed and built upon what was already in the process of being designed.” It was through that design and build process that the Falcon team established the close working relationship with the client that enabled him to be involved in Falcon’s progress day-to-day. Tresham

Tresham gives a subtle twist to the tradition of classic Americana by introducing a modern eclectic sensibility to the designs. Endlessly playful, yet elegant, Tresham furniture, sinks, toilet and receptors invite you to live your life–with a twist. Visit our KOHLER showroom to experience the new Tresham collection.

“Our relationship with the client was very tight, he wasn’t demanding but he wanted to be quite involved and was very excited to see what we were doing,” Abbott says. “The largest investment most people have in their lifetime is their home, especially at the calibre we build, they work hard for that home so they have to be satisfied with the end result.”

It is the trust of the client and the collaborative effort between builder, architect and designer that Abbott says Falcon strives to achieve.

“I wake up every day and think ‘I love my job’, he says. “It’s the entire process, I love working with the client, I love considering the plan.We have the best interests of the client in mind and when everything comes together and you see a well designed, well built home on a property where there was nothing built before, that’s very satisfying.”

a message from Genzink Plumbing Genzink Plumbing, Inc is delighted to partner with Falcon Custom Homes on all their projects. Come visit our 5,000-square-foot showroom featuring over 40 vignettes to help you visualize your next high-end kitchen and bath project or new home construction. Open 7 to 5, Monday through Friday. a message from Belden Brick & Supply Belden Brick and Supply is the leader in providing quality brick, stone, and hearth products for your home and landscape needs. For amazing inspiration to fit many styles and budgets, visit our indoor and outdoor showrooms at our Grand Rapids and Saginaw locations or tour us at, www.BeldenBrickandSupply.com.

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DESIGNERS Creative and enthusiastic minds with a flair for enhancing spaces that reflect a mix of their imagination alongside a clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personality, needs and desires

The Barnhart Ranch BY WORTH INTERIORS / PHOTO Benjamin Benschneider luxuryhomequarterly.com luxuryhomequarterly.com

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Juan Montoya Design Translating the past for modern luxury by Chris Terry Since starting his own firm in 1978, Juan Montoya’s design sensibility has continued to develop. “As time goes by, things are becoming more complex in terms of detailing,” says Montoya, designer and owner of Juan Montoya Design. “You have to really research techniques that will be unique ways to meet the client’s demands.” In the 1980’s, Montoya was a forerunner in the trend of using industrial design techniques in the home. Aluminum stretched across ceilings that hung over rubber floors, while industrial grating was used to separate spaces in roomy lofts. Montoya continued to evolve while pioneering this one technique.

and statuettes all seem to be in motion, reaching skyward. The end result is sleek and modern, while maintaining a high level of comfort and accessibility. “When I do a project, I always want to make sure that every time the owner comes back from wherever they were, they feel that they have entered a warm, welcoming environment,” he says. “I want it to feel like a good dish that is given to you in a fantastic restaurant, that you smell and taste and want to repeat.”

The Gill Residence The Gill residence is a 3,200-squarefoot Park Avenue pied-a-terre, which was designed for a New York businessman. The resident wanted a peaceful, quiet retreat where he could enjoy a respite from his busy travel schedule, as well as an opportunity to display his art collection. Every room in the home is complete with impressive elements. The den

To Montoya, homes are not static. The right design has subtleties that only rise to the surface over time. He says, “I want the client to say, ‘Every time I walk in, I discover something.’”

features oak cabinetry and leather cabinetry pulls from Turnstyle designs. The entrance hallway, which is made of anigre wood, displays work by Antonio Tapies and a sculpture by

“We as designers and architects look at things from the past and are recreating them as a translation,” says Montoya. “We are constantly researching, looking at things that were done before, with a new eye, a new concept of how we can use that today.” Space was at a premium in the New York residence. To raise the height of the rooms, Montoya employed verticality. The tall art pedestals, slim lamps

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While considering each home, Montoya asks himself, What is the client thinking? What is the client feeling? But, Montoya’s design work is not limited to apartments. He has done projects across the United States, and even internationally in France, Russia, Kuwait, Canada, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina and Colombia. When asked how region affects a project, Montoya says, “It varies because of climate. Because of what is available in the country that you are in. You look at the light, terrain and humidity… all the things that are part of the place that you are working [on]. One thing I always say is that you should keep the integration of the country as a turning point; don’t import or bring everything. See if you can actually come up with ideas that will be part of the national character of the country. First I analyze what they have to offer.”

Xavier Mascaro. In the living room, bold and colorful numbers by Robert Indiana are showcased. The modern table lamp was designed by Roman Thomas, and the sofa is by DDC. One of the bathrooms, located in the library, is adorned with teakwood marble walls and a custom eucalyptus vanity, and the kitchen was custom built with Douglas fir cabinetry. There is also an elevator in the home, surrounded by black stone detailing on the floor. A regal sculpture by Laura de Santillana, can be found alongside a Michael Eastman photograph, in the hallway leading to the main bedroom.

Take, for example, the Peisach Residence in Florida, which radiates a sunny, bohemian feel.

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photos: Tim Street-Porter

“At the same time, I was using a lot of fashion fabrics, integrating them into chairs, says Montoya. “The ideas evolved and industrial design became obsolete because people wanted something more luxurious.” As the economy has taken a downward turn, industrial styles for the home have come back in vogue. Now, industrial elements meld with more fashionable aesthetics in Montoya projects such as the Gill Residence, where doors feature sterling silver lined, diamond-shaped cutouts and metal studs inspired by a 17th-century metal trunk.

Peisach Residence

“An interesting thing about design is the discovery aspect, not the beginning or the end. The process is just as interesting as the end result.” Juan Montoya, Owner

The decorations are ornate, giving the home a Picasso-esque style that flows from room to room, floor to floor.

Montoya views each project as an opportunity. While each home has a program, with its own advantages, needs and even limitations, it’s impossible to predict the specifics of the finished space. Not only is Montoya’s style constantly evolving, this development takes place within each project. Montoya says, “An interesting thing about design is the discovery aspect, not the beginning or the end. The process is just as interesting as the end result. It’s fascinating.”

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photos: Ken Hayden

“They have four children, and wanted something elegant but easy to maintain,” says Montoya. “I like a feeling of continuity. No room has an identity that is so different that it doesn’t fit with the rest of the project.”

Elaina Barbosa | Faux Finishes

P. 305.582.4011 584 NE 199 Terrace | Miami, FL

Worth Interiors Team work and perseverance transform a Big Sky, MT mansion by Tara Imperatore

The Barnhart Ranch One space in this Montana mansion that relies more on modern influences is the kitchen, with its sleek custom cabinetry and large-scale island. “The kitchen was really all about the views,” Kanning says. “There was that big window that has you looking out on the mountain range. It was really more about function outside.” The same beautiful views can be seen from the casual dining area that the Barnhart’s specifically requested be more comfortable than formal. “When we started we were on site in the summer and the color palate reflects what you’re seeing outside the windows,” says Kanning. “In the winter it just brings that same warmth to the house when you have all of the snow outside. It doesn’t really read rustic and it doesn’t really read modern; it’s transitional in that it encompasses a little bit of everything, but it’s not in your face in any one way.”

photos: Benjamin Benschneider

and not detracting from what you’re seeing

designers

01 Dining sofa from K and F European Upholstery shows off leather from Moore and Giles, Inc. and fabric from Donghia, Inc. The Live Edge dining table comes from Robin Dorn and Associates.

After the framing is complete and the walls are up, when the plumbing is done and electrical wiring in place, it comes time to transform the cold skeleton of a house into a warm place to call home. When trying to add style to a space, we look toward interior designers and their expertise to give personality to what could otherwise be a boring or disjointed room. Worth Interiors is doing just that with over a decade of experience, a unique point of view and numerous accolades to back up their designs that grace homes, restaurants and hotels all over the country. “I have clients who continually want to renew and refresh,” says Lisa Kanning, one of the principals at Worth Interiors. “So it’s not unusual to have 15 things going on at one time but all at different levels.” Kanning studied at Colorado’s Institute of Art, but originally had a background in psychology “which actually comes in handy in residential interior design,” she says. On a whim she changed courses and started working in the design field, at which time Kanning met Eddy Doumas. After developing a great professional relationship, they decided to combine their mutual passions and open a firm of their own. Thirteen years later, the two have created a thriving company with offices in both Denver and Vail and a portfolio that includes many new and repeat clients in locations ranging from Palm Beach to San Diego to Chicago.

02 Master suite has a clever combination of elegance and rusticity. The stack stone and reclaimed wood is off set by the Jean de Merry “Lumiere” light fixture. 03 Rustic Timbers mix with tailored furnishing. The swivel club chairs are upholstered with a sheepskin seat and trimmed the custom sofa from John Brooks Inc. Masculine lamps are from Visual Comfort in Dallas.

Richard and Barbara Barnhart are among the happy homeowners who enlisted the help of Worth Interiors to make their 10,000-square-foot Big, Sky, MT residence into the mountain retreat of their dreams. Kanning and her team first got to work on the separate carriage house, testing their vision of mixing modern and mountain aesthetics while the main house was being framed. A few snags in the plan halted the project, but not the creative minds at Worth. “While it was paused, ideas were still being thrown around,” Kanning says. “So while construction had stopped, the creative process hadn’t.”

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The same concept of blending the mountainous surroundings with contemporary decor was the focus for the main house as well. “The homeowners’ one request was that even though we were cleaning up the furnishings and going more clean line and modern, they still wanted it to feel like a rustic mountain house, so in each room there’s an element that lets you know where you’re located,” Kanning says. Such elements include the

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third guest room’s twisted wood bed frame, wide plank flooring throughout, rough cut stone in the entryway and master bathroom, and custom hide wall coverings. “We try to stay out there and bring different stuff to the table so we’re not doing what everyone else is…Highline had all of these fantastic local craftspeople who could really do absolutely anything and do it brilliantly,” Kanning says. At the end of this whirlwind six-month-long creative and collaborative design experience, Kanning can truly say that they are pleased with the product, and more importantly, the Barnhart’s love their new Big Sky abode. “It was just such a great project because of the team who was put together and all of the craftspeople that were brought on board as well,” Kanning says. “It was a lot of fun and everyone worked really well together and you can see it in the end result. The clients are extremely happy, which is what you always want.”

05 Custom cabinetry and large scale island bring added function to the walkthrough pantry in the residence’s kitchen. Views of the mountains can be seen outside of the large kitchen windows. 06 Large scale custom bed sets the tone for the organic 3rd guest bedroom. A lofted sleeping area provides additional beds for overnight guests.

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photos: Benjamin Benschneider

On the search for new contractors, the Barnhart’s came across Highline Partners, “who are two young guys with brilliant vision that got the whole thing and were just able to run with it,” Kanning says. From that point on the homeowners, Worth Interiors and Highline Partners’ Rob McRae and Todd Thesing, worked together on everything from the custom light fixtures to the reclaimed wood wall art and the very real buffalo head that guards the front entrance.

04 Front entry of home features a custom hide wall installation, large two-sided fireplace, inlaid tile detailing and large buffalo head. Current view illustrates the entry in relation to the front stair case with a faux finished decorative ceiling detail

WHEN PASSION

IS PRINCIPLE, THE ONLY RESULT CAN BE

PERFECTION

58 PEREGRINE WAY BOZEMAN, MT 59718 P 406.587.6114 | F 406.556.8419 INFO@MONTANATILE.COM

MONTANATILE . COM

Harry Heissmann, Inc. NYC-based designer creates modern flAir with an edge by Melissa Fears

Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2011 Heissmann chose pieces that visually made a big statement. Bold lamps, such as the vintage Elton John cobra lamp add unexpected twists to the dark canvas. Using a mix of textures and fabric make the room come alive. Along with the shag carpet as the comforter, Heissmann chose to use colorful haute couture rhinestone fabric (savelinc.com)

roomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most important pieces; the winged club chair. The custom designed small scale chair is upholstered in a vintage Lilly Pulitzer beach dress and a fuchsia-colored silk velvet. (scalamandre.com) A rare yellow E.T. pillow adds spunk to the chair.

photos: Peter Rymwid

for the bed pillows. His playful attitude on color is what led him to one of the

designers

In a world full of beige and neutrals, decorator Harry Heissmann, pushes the boundaries of the unexpected where color and design are expressed with a superior mix of variety. Having a design itch since he was a child, he sold his collection of nearly 300 antique cast iron German Christmas tree stands to finance his move to New York in 1995. “I literally got here very cliché, with two plastic bags, six thousand dollars and two friends,” says Heissmann. “You come to New York and fall in love with it.” The German-born designer landed his first job with Juan Pablo Molyneux before he began his nine-year collaboration with design great Albert Hadley. “It was just one of those things where everything came together at the same time,” Heissmann says of launching his own firm nearly three years ago. While he pulls inspiration from his mentor Hadley, Heissmann creates his designs by combining style, sophistication and whimsical fun. Being in New York enables Heissmann to dream big and never say never. “If you have the idea that you want to put a full size plaster horse in a clients living room, you know that you can find it,” says Heissmann. “The city has a never ending supply of what you need to make every possible design dream come true. Dreaming is essential to designing,” Heissmann says. Drawing inspiration from childhood, his designs often reflect imagination and bold colors. “You can’t learn that,” he says. “It just happens. I often get asked how do I do this. I am sitting there and can’t really explain it. At the end of the day it’s all a big dream.” Gaining these intuitive skills was something Heissmann learned early on. Relishing in the closeness of the tight-knit design community, he has nurtured his skills over the years. These close relationships, “a circle of friends,” have developed into numerous collaborations, he says. “I could not live without the circle of friends in my job, it is my everything and I'm so fortunate to know all the amazing talent surrounding me,” says Heissmann. “All this wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for the amazing craftsmen and artisans. That’s what we strive for…to see ideas come true.” One of his dreams that came to fruition was to be a decorator for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House. After designing alongside Kips Bay veteran Hadley in 2011, he was ready to break out on his own.

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“I find inspiration in most everything I see, even in the iridescent colors of a gasoline puddle.” harry heissmann, owner

With a time crunch and a small dark one window room to work with, Heissmann immediately began work on playing with the light aspect. He chose to add bronze mirrors and Chanelstyle quilted chocolate brown wallpaper, which laid down the canvas for the room’s whimsical color palette. “If there was one thing this room didn’t feel, it was claustrophobic or small,” says Heissmann. The bed is where the room started. The floating clear Lucite bed had become an obsession. Knowing he had to use it, he set off the unique bed with a Moroccan Tulu carpet, which was Heissmann’s own. “I didn’t have to worry what was going to be the bed, the comforter, the pillow, so I just put this on and was just done with it,” he says.

“I find inspiration in most everything I see, even in the iridescent colors of a gasoline puddle.” Heissmann wanted a mascot for the room, and he found it with the attention-getting FAO Schwarz giraffe. Adding scale, he put it in the corner of the room like his mentor Hadley did with carousel animals. “I think most people really liked the surprising aspect of the room and were amused by what they saw, which is what you want from a show house,” says Heissmann.

a message from Christopher Spitzmiller, Inc. What I both love and admire about Harry is

Inspiring vintage pieces such as the rock crystal fixture on the ceiling, the striped custom bedside lamps or the vintage Yves Saint Laurent 'Love Print' from 1972 add character to the room. Finding inspiration in little things is key, says Heissmann.

his daring, original spirit. Harry worked with Albert Hadley for 10 years, his rooms are completely different and entirely his own. He builds a level of trust with his client’s and they let him go, and the magic he works is a visual feast!

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Mark Weaver & Associates Inc. Los Angeles interior designer cherishes time-tested classics

by Brian Libby When Mark Weaver began his career approximately 40 years ago in Los Angeles, “Interior design as a career was in its infancy,” he says. “Today it’s an enormous business, even entertainment on television. It’s interesting how it’s evolved.” But Weaver has evolved as well. His designs are not just about creating a feeling of comfort or being aesthetically pleasing, although they possess both qualities. Part artist, part scientist, he fills architectural spaces with a museum curator’s devotion to historic periods and craftsmanship, arranging furniture and objects according to time-tested principles of color, light and balance. Yet, he’s less of a historian or designer to his clients, and more of a friend to them. “Eighty percent of the work we do is repeat business,” says Weaver, a native of Palm Springs, CA. “If you have a body of clients who have been loyal to you over several years, they’re like family members. It’s very satisfying to be able to create for someone you have a deep affection for: to change their lifestyle, to enrich their life and make them comfortable, and to show them the beauty around them and make their life function better. I get to go out and find the greatest things I can find for them. Then we go back and look at the cost, the history of the pieces and decide what they are passionate about. There’s the element of trust. They have faith in you because they know you.” Although his portfolio includes clients in LA’s Brentwood and Malibu areas, as well as Santa Barbara, New York, Hawaii and Europe, Weaver’s best calling card may be his weekend home in Montecito, CA. Designed in collaboration with the late architect O. Douglas Phillips, the Mediterranean-style architecture and olive trees outside his home set the stage for the stunning artwork on the walls and furniture. A lover of Italian design (his mother was born in Italy), Weaver had numerous pieces custom built to replicate antiques found in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum near his home.

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01 Muted yellow tones and crushed corduroy seating complete the Santa Barbara home’s living room

02 The family room is surrounded by large windows that overlook the wooded landscape 03 The designer’s home includes an ecclectic mix of wares including furniture designed by Weaver himself 04 The living room is complemented by a sofa that was inspired by a day bed Weaver saw at the Getty Museum

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designers

The Weaver Residence The historically inspired custom furniture is the centerpiece of Mark Weaver’s home in Montecito, CA. “The sofa’s one of my most favorite pieces I’ve ever created,” he says. “It was taken from an Ionian day bed at the Getty Museum and was copied from that piece and scaled exactly as the original was. The original daybed was in bronze and I executed this in wood and added the arms back to it. I was so taken by it that the Getty helped me do a drawing of the piece, and I worked for over a year with my cabinetmakers to perfect it.”

Yet, neither Weaver’s home, nor his clients’, looks like museums. For every antique there is a modern piece nearby, such as a sleek glass coffee table, which Weaver says is a reflection of the biggest change in interior design over the past 40 years. “I think the days of static interiors are behind us,” he says. “Today people want to have things around them they’ve collected on their travels or belonged to family members. It might not be the exactly perfect piece to them, but it’s important to them.”

Weaver also places great importance on art in his work. A recent project in Santa Barbara, for example, makes colorful, compelling works by legendary abstract expressionist painters such as Robert Motherwell and Helen Frankenthaler a focal point of the rooms in which they hang. In his own home, an early 19th-century Venetian painting hangs above the sofa, taken from the wall panel of an Italian palazzo. “If you have a great piece of art in a room, obviously it’s going to take prominent position,” Weaver says. “But several elements are important in creating a successful space. There’s scale and proportion, balance, light, comfort. And you’re creating something within a certain budget. We have projects that we’ve designed with the greatest things we can find, and others with constraints. You take the constraints and work it until you get all the right elements. But in creating a room, you want the right balance of furniture and objects. You want comfortable furniture placed in a way that can be conversational. And there are things to tantalize the eye, to tease the eye.”

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TAYLOR SCOTT COLLECTION

FURNITURE BUILT THE “OLD FASHIONED WAY”

BALCORP BALCORP

Construction & & Development Construction Development

BENCH MADE ONE AT A TIME PROUDLY IN THE USA

General Contractors Builders of Quality Homes homes 2852 Colorado Ave. Santa Monica, CA 90404 310.453.0204 Ph. 310. 453.0204 • F. 310.453.0209 info@balcorpconstruction.com info @BalcorpConstruction.com B 509082

PlatyPus Painting inc. Craftsmanship, Commitment, & Care 1129 32nd st. | Oakland, CA 94608 (510) 508-0736 | (415) 633-6564 Info@PlatypusPainting.com www.PlatypusPainting.com

tscollection@earthlink.net taylorscottcollection.com

designers

Kristina Wolf Design From Police Commander to Interior Designer by Isabel Eva Bohrer Kristina Wolf, now a leading interior designer in the San Francisco Bay Area, spent 27 years working as a police commander. Upon retirement from public service, she decided to dedicate herself to her passion, interior design. That was four years ago. Now, her firm Kristina Wolf Design is a milliondollar company, specializing in residential interior design, decoration, project management, renovation and remodeling, as well as custom furniture design. Primarily based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Southern California, Kristina Wolf Design has recently branched out to the East Coast, to Washington D.C.

photos: Chipper Hatter

Throughout the design process, Wolf draws on what she learned as a police commander. “I know how to work with budgets, timelines and accountability. We offer excellent customer service,” she explains. “That’s from the business side.” From a design perspective, Wolf says that she “also use[s] what [she] learned as a police commander to actually listen to what my clients have to say.” This way, “everyone feels like his or her voice is being heard,” she says. Working with Wolf is often a discovery process for her clients. Wolf begins each and every consultation with “interactive homework,” requiring clients to browse through Dream Homes, 100 Inspirational Interiors by Andreas von Einsiedel and Johanna Thornycroft. “The book has every design style, from traditional to modern, to exotic,” Wolf says. She requires that her clients look through every page, putting sticky notes on pages they like. If the clients are husband and wife, for example, each person will have different colored sticky notes. At the next meeting, Wolf discusses the preferences with the clients. Wolf underlines the importance of this interactive homework: “I won’t work with a client unless we do this.” Wolf says, “My design style is to take from my clients what their desires are and integrate their choices into the final design. It’s an eclectic style, based on taking my clients a touch out of their comfort zone.” Wolf’s own personal preference? “The edgier, the better.” She particularly enjoyed redesigning an old firehouse in San Francisco. “It’s a five-story house, where we mixed traditional metal fire

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Wolf enjoys working with local manufacturers, many of which produce furniture and finishings custom-made exclusively for her projects. “Every time I can get a California piece, I will,” Wolf says. At the Babb residence, we see the custom white sofa from the Taylor Scott collection (taylorscottcollection.com), with black fur pillows, which are by 18 Karat, the same company that provided the ceramic pieces (eighteenkarat. com). The glass tables, in turn, are from Worlds Away (worlds-away.com). At the Bolen residence, the white lamp with shells is from Currey & Company (curreycodealers. com), while the custom metallic chandelier lamp is by Trend tlighting.com). A silver Z Gallerie bowl adorns the living room table (zgallerie.com). You can admire yourself, as well as the beautiful interior design, in the mirror by Arteriors (arteriorshome.com). In the dining room, the clients eat, drink and sit at Domitalia tables and chairs (domitalia. it). Wolf explains, “the only thing that [Ms. Bolen] had was the artwork.” Wolf took care of the rest.

hoses with concrete. We needed to add in an element of warmth to create a good balance, so there is not such a cold industrial feel,” she says. Right now, she is working on another favorite project: the home of the inventor of Siri, the interactive talking feature of the new iPhone 4S. “What I love about this project is that the client wants it to be over the top,” she says. “It’s very much like the W Hotel, but with a cozy ‘home’ feel as well.” Two additional projects Wolf wanted to highlight are the Babb and Bolen residences in Moraga and Oakland, CA, respectively. With the Babb project, the clients themselves have traveled extensively, collecting souvenirs, sculptures and artwork from all over the world. They “wanted their home to reflect the world traveler, the exotic feel,” Wolf says.

formal room [at the Babb residence] is the same fabric that is used in the living room at the Bolen loft.” Wolf highlights that her clients are always involved at all stages of the design process. “The only thing I ask from my clients is that they trust me,” she says. And again, the important thing for Wolf is that her clients transcend their comfort zone. What makes her company unique and successful? “We all love what we do, we have fun,” Wolf replies. “It’s a happy company.” And that feeling translates to her clients and permeates her projects.

a message from Taylor Scott Collection The visionary inspiration of Jeff Gold is to provide comfort and beauty to the world. His upholstery is hand made, in the USA, individually, the old fashioned way. White goose down, Alder Wood, hand tied springs and hands on approach, is only part of recipe for quality.

Ms. Bolen, in contrast, “just moved from the wine country to a city and loft living space in the Jack London Square area of Oakland,” says Wolf. “She has several pieces of art and wanted [her home] to reflect an edgy, loft feeling and at the same time be luxurious and comfortable.”

a message from platypus painting inc. Platypus Painting Inc. specializes in custom coating systems for both interior and exterior surfaces. From small residential repaints, to expansive commercial or new construction, Platypus Painting Inc. has been pleasing discerning customers for years. When embarking on your

What unifies the two residences is the white Anaconda fabric by Clarke & Clarke. “What I wanted to show is how something can be so versatile,” Wolf says. “This fabric that you see in an exotic, more

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next project, consider the value in enlisting the help of our qualified team of craftsmen and women. Our quality and service are as memorable as the name, Platypus Painting Inc., “Craftsmanship, Commitment, Care”

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photo: Chipper Hatter

Locals Only

designers

tonychi and associates New York City-based design studio gives priority to collaboration, artistic expression, and luxury

The Andaz 5th Avenue The energy of New York City’s inhabitants, as well as the New York City

by Lauryn Allison Lewis

Public Library situated across the street, inspired design of the Andaz 5th Avenue hotel (newyork.5thavenue.

Reverence, balance and harmony: these are just a few of the philosophical and aesthetic tenets that Tony Chi, Principal of tonychi and associates, applies to every project his firm undertakes. The meticulously crafted spaces function as an extension of the designer himself; the vision culled through intimate collaboration, and a deep and abiding trust he extends to the other members of his team. “My total staff consists of nearly 40 designers who come from over 10 different nationalities,” says Chi. “This diversity in our backgrounds allows for a fascinating results when we come together to collaborate.” The self-proclaimed perfectionist goes on to explain that, “By working holistically, every aspect of the space is integrated into one functional component: interiors, lighting, tabletop accessories...branding and graphic. We collaborate intensely with architects at the pre-concept phase so that the interior space is integrated with the exterior structure. It is applying the art of perfec-

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tion and finesse down to every minute detail. No detail can be too minimal.”

andaz.hyatt.com). The color palette references industrial energy, New York City in the rain and the silence

Communication and collaboration are central to what defines tonychi and associates, and sets it apart from other design studios. “I do not use the word client as it is a word that, to me, implies a stark distance and a certain limitation with whom I collaborate,” says Chi. “A client pays and the designer does the service. This is not the relationship that my studio wants or expects in a design project. A design project is about a shared conceived vision and it is a voyage of collaboration. A designer with such a powerful collaboration could result in a project of limitless and rewarding perfection in a design project and that is the relationship I strive for with those with whom I collaborate.”

of Midtown before dawn. Black and whitewashed poplar, white lacquer, gray basalt and mineralized oak were used cohesively throughout the space. David Singer of Arclight Design (arclightdesigngroup.com) created the unique and functional lighting fixtures. The stairway boasts a wall sculpture by Edward Lam, inspired by sheaves of paper and the turning pages of a book. Elegant walnut-framed, hand-crafted chairs were designed by Deirdre Jordan of Troscan Design + Furnishings (troscandesign.com), and leather cab chairs by Cassina (cassina.com)

Within the studio’s expansive portfolio, there is no evidence of projects hastily completed. Phrases

provide places for guests to relax at the end of an exciting day.

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such as “rush job” and “quick turn around” do not exist within the tonychi and associates lexicon, and the celebrated designer would not have it any other way. “Each project that our studio commits [to] consumes three to five years of my life,” he says. “I go to extreme lengths to be personally familiar with the owner of the space or property; this is a process that takes extensive time and a meeting of shared minds. There has to be a particular connection and chemistry. A design project is quite an intimate experience.” Drawing on metaphor to illustrate further, Chi says, “If I were a painter, I would be an expressionist as opposed to an impressionist. I like to be very minimal in the materials I use. I follow function first and then form. As designers, we are forming the soul from within the skeleton which is the external structure. The use and application of geometry in design guides to establish order from the chaos within finding a purpose whether it is the light from outside, people from the inside or movement within that particular space.”

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“By working holistically, every aspect of the space is integrated into one functional component interiors, lighting, tabletop accessories...branding and graphic.” Tony Chi, Principal

The newest addition to the tonychi repertoire, the Andaz 5th Avenue project in New York City’s Midtown exemplifies the studio’s vision. A high-end offshoot of the Hyatt Corporation, Andaz 5th Avenue takes a whole new approach to luxury and strives to accommodate guests in unique and surprising ways. Though modesty is the designer’s strong suit, he can’t help but express some delight with the outcome. “I am fascinated by how Andaz 5th Avenue embraces its surroundings and integrates elements of its locale and how it supports a unique and modern vision of hotel operation,” he says. When all aspects of a design project come together, the effect is homogenous, seamless and the satisfaction one feels when inhabiting the space is nearly inexpressible, due in part to the lengths the tonychi team goes to ensuring that all of one’s senses are engaged within it. “Design must reflect the natural beauty and energy all around us,” says Chi. “It is designing the intangibles that surround us, those qualities that we do not see but feel, touch and taste.”

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3 Fold Design Studio Creating sustainable, modern and universal design by Jessica Kirby Page Gandy’s passion for design is something she believes is an intrinsic part of her. As a child she spent countless hours rearranging the furniture in her room and experimenting with style, but it was a high school trip to Frank Lloyd Wright’s house in Oak Park that convinced her that the truth in design was in the details. “I saw how much effort he placed into every single thing from the china and sometimes even the clothes, and into learning how a family functions,” says Gandy. “I started thinking then about how this could be a profession and a career.” She studied psychology and political science at Rice University in Houston, but soon the call of her childhood passion took over and she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Atlanta. Gandy worked for several

The studio is founded on a vision to bring sustainable, modern and universal design to residential clients in innovative ways. 3 Fold leans toward a modern direction, relying on rich neutral palettes into which fresh, innovative pieces and technologies bring interest and color. “You never know what the avocado green of this decade is going to be,” says Gandy. “I try to stay neutral and make it interesting with textures, pillows and rugs that liven the space.” The natural Texan landscape—rustic cacti, deep sunsets—inspires many of Gandy’s designs. “There are times when it is a single paint color that brings to mind an entire room,” she says. “I also get inspiration from nature and then decide

01 The dining room peers into the living room through a wooden and brick breezeway 02 High, wooden ceilings and tall, immense windows surround the living room 03 A mix of brick and wood complement the natural wood table in the dining room 04 The muted color palette of the home’s living room is brightened by large windows that overlook the wooded exterior

photos: Casey Dunn

high-profile design firms in Atlanta and Austin before opening Austin-based 3 Fold Design Studio with partner Tracy Curtis in 2007.

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Sustaining Style Gandy first felt inspired by green design in college when she embarked on a project to research sustainable materials and implement them into an interior design. “It first struck me then that an industry where everyone is always tearing out and redoing things puts a lot of pressure on our natural resources,” says Gandy. “I try to educate clients about the materials out there and what is possible.” New materials are always coming to market,” she says. Cork floors and paper-based counters ground a space with warmth and rich tones and recycled glass tiles can add a shimmer or sparkle of elegance in any space. Shading, solar screens, and layered lighting systems can also reduce energy use and create a multi-faceted ambiance that invites interaction and creates depth in a room. “We try to make these solutions functional and natural, so you don’t even realize they are there,” says Gandy.

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Page Gandy, partner how to tie it all together and bring it into someone’s home.”

Schroeder Carpet is a unique flooring boutique serving Austin, Texas for the past 30 years. Family-owned and operated, Schroeder has earned a reputation for offering a wide and fashionable selection of floor products, the best customer service and product knowledge, as well as quality installations. We serve Interior Designers, Home Builders, Remodelers and individual homeowners. As an excellent resource for designers and builders, we offer a wide range of quality products as well as the expertise to guide homeowners through the selection process; balancing functionality, budget requirements and style. For more information, please visit our website at www.schroedercarpet.com

704 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78704

Although her designs tend toward high-end, sophisticated styling, a key element of Gandy’s work is creating spaces that are easy to be in. “I want rooms that make you happy,” she says. “I want a space to be beautiful, but one that isn’t too precious—one where you aren’t worried about spills and where sofas are for napping.” The Hancock Residence is built on this principle, seamlessly blending clean, elegant lines with the intimacy that inspired the design concept. The kitchen was an empty space when the project began, and a desire for entertainment-friendly functionality was only half the equation. “The homeowners love to be together,” says Gandy. “We wanted to incorporate that into the design, so it isn’t just a kitchen but a place they can feel good spending time together.” A second, but equally important objective was opening the space to the incredible view of a natural creek to the back of the house. “We wanted to open it up and let the view flow around the kitchen,” says Gandy. The kitchen is divided into three zones by an island—in one area a generous counter invites tandem meal preparation--while a bar on the din-

ing room side welcomes guests. A built-in table and seating bench create aesthetic harmony while curving gracefully around a structural post for a comfortable oasis. A key aesthetic inspiration for the space was a silver and blue veined piece of travertine on the counter, from which the sleek but subtle theme of the entire room was born. The lines were kept fresh and open with a gray glass backsplash and by eliminating upper cabinets altogether. “The room has this fantastic, clean simplicity that we achieved while still creating enough storage space below,” says Gandy. “We were able to think outside the traditional.” The bathroom was also remodeled to bring the couple together in comfort. The double shower is enclosed in frameless glass while two countertop-mounted sinks slope inwards adding a splash of creativity to the space. Pulling the room together is natural stone plank flooring arranged in varying widths to create interest beyond the typical 12 x 12 inch tile. Natural materials like honed marble on the countertops and a generous picture window create an unmistakable connection to the outdoors. “The push behind all of the designs was ensuring the colors remained neutral so that nothing overpowered the view,” says Gandy.

Phone: 512.462.1551 | Fax: 512.462.2671 SUMMER 2012

photos: Casey Dunn

Flooring & Carpet Specialists of Austin

“I want a space to be beautiful, but one that isn’t too precious one where you aren’t worried about spills and where sofas are for napping.”

designers

Boutique firm blends unique design with individualized details by Isabel Eva Bohrer “The style question is always hard for me to answer,” says April Sheldon. She has been involved in the design industry since 1987, and in 1992, established her own boutique firm, April Sheldon Design. “Because I’m such a boutique designer, I don’t have to have, and don’t want to have, a branded style,” she says. “The great pleasure of my work is that I get the opportunity to work in many styles.” Though based in San Francisco, April Sheldon Design operates on a national base. “Right now, I am working on a very large penthouse in San Francisco, a remodel of a post and beam beach house in Carmel, CA, and a loft in NYC that is in an old bank building across from the New York Stock Exchange,” says Sheldon. To Sheldon, each project is entirely unique, as is the architecture and the client. “However, what is inherent in everything I do is a clean rational approach to planning,” Sheldon says. “The function and fit of the rooms has to feel right, and un-fussed.” Specifically, she says she “love[s] to layer beautiful materials and combine colors and textures that are rich and dramatic.”

photos: john casado

An example of such a rich and dramatic project is the Shepard residence. “[The Shepard’s] are a dynamic couple,” says Sheldon. “Brad is a very successful dentist and Joni is a Realtor specializing in Marin County. They are very athletic, both bike, do Triathlons and ocean swimming. They are well traveled, lived in Europe a number of years ago and spent a year in Africa when their son Jacob was young just for the experience,” she says. Sheldon’s goal was to make the Shepard’s home vibrant and modern. “The area in which they live was built as a development in the 50's,” she says. “The house is very typical of California residential building of that era.” That is, the rooms are of a significant size, with great light and a style that Sheldon refers to as a “classic ranch style.” “But it had become dated over the years,” she says. Sheldon took charge of the modernization. “I opened the rooms to one another as much as pos-

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Shepard Residence Sheldon tailors each of her projects specifically to the clients in question. This is evident in the Shepard residence, a home replete with unique products, all of which contribute to achieve the "modern and vibrant" feel that the interior designer sought to create. The living and family feature products from Ted Boerner, Boyd Lighting, Holly Hunt, Donghia Furniture, Geoffrey De Sousa and Michael Berman. In Sheldon's own words, choosing this design was "add(ing) some punch to the simple architecture."

Sheldon is especially proud of the bathroom. “The original bathroom gave you the feeling that you had just fallen into a rabbit warren that had been lined with aqua blue tile and fitted with gold fixtures in shell shapes!” she recalls. “It was dark and closed in with only one small high window.” The renovation, in turn, included a new room with a “raised ceiling, large windows and generous use of the beautiful shimmering mosaics that feels relaxing and clean,” Sheldon says. “It was a true transformation.” “The other thing I am most proud of is how much the client's love to entertain now,” she says. “Joni is an amazing chef, and they now entertain constantly because they love sharing their new environment with their friends.”

When asked what makes her company unique and successful, Sheldon says, “I think it’s that I am like a fine tailor. I can come up with solutions for individuals’ unique fits and types while maintaining a real aesthetic integrity.” As for the future, Sheldon says she has been “toying with the idea of going back to some commercial work just to mix it up a bit.” She says that her start in the business was at Skidmore Owings and Merill. “I sometimes miss those big collaborative efforts,” she says. “But then again, I love what I do. I love giving my client's a great place to come home to. I believe it makes a difference in quality of life to be surrounded by comfort and beauty.”

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It is such transformations that Sheldon tends to achieve for her clients through her design work.

new homes, complete interior and exterior renovations, additions and light commercial projects.

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photos: johN casado

sible by removing headers between rooms, getting rid of soffits and doorway returns, and in general making the space clean and modern and open,” she explains. “I wanted a clean, crisp background on which we could layer rich and vibrant colors to add some punch to the simple architecture.”

designers

Joy Moyler Interiors Joy Moyler brings eclectic influences to the homes of celebrities and high-end clientele by Tara Imperatore They say inspiration can come from the most unexpected places; for Joy Moyler, that place was Spain. At fourteen years old, she found herself enveloped in the country’s rich history and captivated by the sites surrounding her. “The trip to Spain was a poignant element in my life at that time,” Moyler says. Gazing upon the work of greats like Antoni Gaudi, she became enamored with its complexity. “I was captured by the amount of technique that went into the buildings that he [Gaudi] designed. I just fell in love with the cultural details of the architecture.”

incredibly immersed in because it’s so diverse,” she says. “You’ll find very Fifth Avenue design elements, which are very bespoke and you’ll find country elements as well.” Having such a range has been extremely beneficial for Moyler, as her own business, Joy Moyler Interiors, just landed a new project for a celebrity client in Montana. “He knew my reputation for doing sleek work, but also knew that I was at Ralph and could do western,” she says. “That’s going to be very different from a lot of the modern projects that I’ve been working on so we’re both incredibly excited.”

Moyler decided to explore her interest further with a degree in architecture. After graduating, she worked for highly esteemed architecture and design firms including Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, John Saladino and Ralph Lauren. “The wonderful thing about the Ralph influence is that it continues to this day. It’s a culture that you become

Directing much of its attention toward residential interior design, Joy Moyler Interiors recently completed a 4,000-square-foot loft for a young celebrity violinist in Manhattan. She had worked with the client on a previous residence that was much darker and edgier with lots of grays and black throughout, but he was looking for a different vibe this time

01 Clean, white walls pour into the cream flooring, where comfortable seating completes the room 02 A contemporary, minimalist fireplace stands out with modern, pop art, which Moyler has an affinity for 03 The homeowner lined the walls of his home office with numerous musical awards and certificates 04 Asian influences accent the owner’s bedroom

photo: Nick Carter Photography

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around. “By contrast he wanted a very crisp environment,” Moyler says. “He wanted to feel as if he was walking amongst the clouds.” After a long sixmonth search for the perfect space, they happened upon the Chelsea property. “He made a request that he initially wanted everything in the apartment to be white,” Moyler says. She and her team went to work filling it with modern, white furniture and sandblasting the floors to expose the original granite. The end result saw the contemporary, ‘dreamlike’ domain that the client envisioned. "With the influence of my style icons Fred Astaire and costume designer, Edith Head, I always aim to design environments clients would be comfortable

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in; where I imagine them having a drink, listening to Frank Sinatra or some 'Mood Indigo' and staying awhile,” Moyler says. Bringing in the unfamiliar is also fun for the experienced designer, as she likes to introduce her clients to unique, new elements. “One of the things you’ll always find in my projects is a cultural reference,” says Moyler. “Even if a client isn’t particularly interested initially in using cultural items in their home, on collecting pieces, presenting them, and explaining their history, they always respond to say ‘I have to have these!’ because they’ve been educated along the way.” With impressive work experience, a successful interior design business, and a long list of clients,

Moyler moves into the future with the same enthusiasm as the day she discovered her love for architecture as a kid. “I’m definitely going to continue doing other residential work, and probably a few commercial projects,” she says. “I’m at the point where I never want to say no to anything especially if it’s a good project. If someone comes to me with something that’s incredibly wonderful I don’t want anyone else to get it. I’m kind of selfish in that way.” Her strong work ethic and exuberance for life keep her, and her many clients, happy and coming back for more. “I do have a motto, though,” she says, “which is ‘the client isn’t always right, that’s why they hire professionals.’”

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photoS: Nick Carter Photography

"With the influence of my style icons Fred Astaire and costume designer, Edith Head, I always aim to design environments clients would be comfortable in; where I imagine them having a drink, listening to Frank Sinatra or some 'Mood Indigo' and staying awhile." Joy Moyler, owner

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photo: Joy Moyler Interiors

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Wick Design Group California-based company finds its calling in contemporary and playful residential design by Brian Libby

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Whether it’s an idyllic California winery or any number of residences, interior designer Will Wick and his San Francisco firm, Wick Design Group, have, in just a few years assembled a portfolio that is fun yet restrained and contemporary with an eye for texture and art. But Wick was not one of those creatives already sure of his calling by kindergarten. In college, he’d studied environmental policy, then interned at a financial-management firm. After dabbling in graphic design, Wick still was unsatisfied, and it was only after working for two interior designers that Wick was at home.

zinc counters at the bar. When the design team considered weathered steel, a popular material today, Wick suggested galvanized metal instead, “for a more dusty-gray feel,” he says. But there are also tobacco brown wide plank floors and oxidized cedar-planked walls, and a huge old farm table from the south of France, balancing modern with rustic. An additional speakeasy-themed bar became a mix of Gold Rush-era California and French bistro, with a tin ceiling, chocolaty-brown barstools and a painting of a Native American chief donated by local artist Wade Heofer.

“There was a lot I didn’t know, and maybe I jumped a little prematurely. I always wanted to be my own boss,” says Wick, who founded Wick Design Group in 2008. “But without trying to toot my own horn, I knew I had a knack for design and sculpture.You can’t learn a knack.You either have it or you don’t.”

The Wick Design Group portfolio also includes residential projects like the Woodside residence, with a more stately traditional feel contrasted with eclectic bits of folk art and Americana. The living room fireplace is bracketed by two old New York subway signs on each side, and a vintage American flag hanging freely and unframed above the mantel “It certainly had that East Coast, Hamptons feel, but with a lot of unexpected turns,” Wick says. For the San Francisco residence, which Wick describes as a “summery, coastal feel,” delicate white-patterned curtains and soft textures are paired with creamy tones accented by the occasional autumnal orange wall or animal-print throw rug, mixed with unconventional touches such as leather folding chairs. The

Wick Design Group partnered with architect Luke Wade and landscape architect Nelson Berg Wolff to renovate a century-old general store and bar into a tasting room at Medlock Ames Winery in Sonoma County, retaining its historic East of Eden-like feel but through a modern lens. Black plumbing pipe was used for foot rails on the bar and handrails in the bathrooms for an industrial, utilitarian feel, and

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San Francisco 2010 Showcase House Wick has numerous times participated in the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, the region’s largest interior design exhibit, most recently in 2010 creating a bedroom in the event’s showcase house meant to subvert notions that his design was masculine. This was my version of feminine, if you will,” Wick says. “I did a four-poster bed with white linen. I don’t think I even put a duvet on the bed, just a white sheet. There were billowy white draperies and coverings. I think restraint for me has been my greatest gift and my biggest challenge. I brought all the furniture in and before the end I think I’d removed five of nine pieces. I edited it down to one nightstand with one lamp, a dresser hanging on a wall, a hanging chair and a desk for writing and a massive Richard Misrach photo of the ocean.”

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03 01 The century-old bar and store, located in Sonoma County, was transformed into a tasting room at Medlock Ames Winery 03 The four-poster bed is part of the San Francisco 2010 Showcase House 03 The living room has subtle, patriotic hues of red, white and blue that complement the american flag that hangs over a traditional fireplace 04 Rustic wooden floors lend to the cottage-like feel of the home’s kitchen

“I obviously follow the rule of what the client wants, but you’re trying to have some fun with it, to challenge yourself and subvert some of the rules: to create your own point of view.” Will Wick, owner

Pacific Heights residence was for a bachelor “not afraid to use pink,” Wick says. “He was from southern California and he loved the beach. So I went with the more natural bleached woods, and organic elements like a petrified tree stump.”

Recently, Wick has been at work on a house in Big Sky, MT. “You’ve got your mountain modern aesthetic with steel and glass and wood, and your home with the massive chandelier and the Black Forest furniture,” he says. “Then you have your kind of barn aesthetic. We didn’t want any of those. This has a European architectural aesthetic, and we kept the interior very simple: white stucco interior walls with cracked hewn giant beams and post, and beautiful wide oak plank flooring, with a massive sort of central fireplace that goes up the three stories of the house. My mind created a story as if the client were from Brussels or London who liked the modern aesthetic. But they also maybe were maybe born in South Africa and had a lot of antique objects and curiosities sprinkled about the house. I obviously follow the rule of what the client wants, but you’re trying to have some fun with it, to challenge yourself and subvert some of the rules: to create your own point of view.”

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designers

Lee Douglas Interiors Self-Made Business Finds Success in Expansion by Amy Lemen There’s nothing quite like being in demand – and Lorele Lesoing and Doug Dittoe of Lee Douglas Interiors know that feeling well these days. The husband-and-wife team founded the Lincoln, NE-based firm in 1989 – the company’s name combines their own names – after Lesoing had enjoyed success as an independent designer. But her path to design was a circuitous one – an often all-too-common journey for those with a passion for the creative. Lesoing earned a bachelor’s degree in home economics from the University of Nebraska, and then worked in the insurance industry for Mutual of Omaha for 15 years. It was a successful career for Lesoing – she achieved district manager status – but she always knew she wanted to explore her creative side. “I knew I needed to make a career change that was a better fit for my degree and talent,” she says. “We

started small, but the residential referrals started coming at a pace where we needed more help.” In 2002, the company purchased a building in Lincoln, taking their passion for design to the retail market, offering furniture, accessories and artwork, and also hired three additional designers to support its growing clientele base. Today, Lee Douglas Interiors is a full service commercial and residential design firm that caters to private clients, builders and outside designers – adapting its style to client needs.

01 Brick accents and granite countertops give the kitchen an earthy feel 02 The home’s sitting area is complete with a grand piano and towering windows 03 The dimly-lit dining room has a regal, yet intimate feel

“We’re not defined by a specific style,” says Lesoing. “I’m most proud of our team’s ability to do any style well and finish it with the detail clients wants.” The success of the Lincoln location had auspicious beginnings – eventually leading to the expansion of the company to Sioux Falls, South Dakota in 2010. Lesoing had hired Megan Peterson as her intern and assistant while Peterson was a

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student at the University of Nebraska, working with her for three years on multiple design projects. Peterson was originally from Sioux Falls and, upon graduation, she moved back to Sioux Falls with her husband. “Megan was working independently as an interior designer, using retailers and vendors from the Sioux Falls area, but she thought she would be much more effective as a part of Lee Douglas Interiors,” says Lesoing. Peterson pitched the idea to Lesoing, and after researching the market, demographics and competition, she agreed. The team decided to open an office in Sioux Falls in 2010 – hiring Peterson as lead designer to operate the new location. It was a decision Lesoing was glad to make, because it meant expansion into a market that was not on the company’s radar, and it gave an opportunity to a trusted former assistant. “I am most proud of the niche we have developed in both markets,” says Lesoing. “The staff in both markets has really completed our firm.” The success of Lee Douglas’ staff is apparent in the accolades the company has earned through various projects. They have been named lead designer at Governor Mike Johannes’ inaugural ball; they have been selected to host a fundraiser featuring HGTV’s Frank Fontana and they participated in an Extreme Makeover home addition that specialized in faux finish.Lesoing is proud of the firms’ ability to adapt to any situation with a staff that is both flexible and talented.

As for the future, Lesoing’s plans include an online store and an addition to the company’s Lincoln, NE location that would house more inventory. Other plans include developing the company’s own line of furniture. “It’s our priority to work with clients to incorporate their unique style into the project, while also making recommendations that complement personal taste, needs and budget,” says Lesoing. “I’m proud to have developed a staff that provides the level of design Lee Douglas Interiors has become known for.”

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regional focus / ASPEN

The Red Mountain Residence BY AUGUST RENO / PHOTO: Michael Brands

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regional focus / ASPEN

Aspen REGIONAL FOCUS

Aspen, nestled deep in Pitkin County of Colorado, has been one of the nations best-known ski resorts and tourist centers for more than 50 years. The city, named after the abundance of trees scattered throughout, also showcases impressive and breathtaking views of the Colorado Mountains. Historically, Aspen began as a mining area, known in the late 1890â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as the most productive silver mining district in the United States. Now, the area has more than 6,500 inhabitants, and an endless amount of unique spectacles such as snowcapped peaks. Perfect for weekend getaways, much of Aspenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s allure comes from its endless blankets of white. Visitors will find, along with the many snow-centric sights that can be enjoyed year round, numerous other thrilling activities, such as horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, rafting and family-themed events. For those looking to stay a while longer, the city offers many hotels, lodges and home rentals. The companies featured here play a pivotal role not only in shaping the Aspen community, but they also bring their own beauty to an already flawless landscape. Each has a vision that captures the resort-feel of the city, as well as providing a welcoming place to live.

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Brikor Associates Splitting the Difference for a Dynamic Aspen Home

photos: Mountain Home Photo

by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford

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regional focus / ASPEN

“Under the circumstances we felt like we got a great value on a tremendous property.” Craig Morris, Realtor

01 The entryway framed with stacked stone and wood accents complements the surrounding landscape

03 Rich tones for the wood floors and ceiling create a contrast to the white walls and natural stone fireplace

02 Glass walls run throughout the sun-drenched split-level home and present unique views of the Maroon Bells

roperties all across Aspen boast some of the most unique features that you can find in the U.S.--ski-in, ski-out homes, extensive interior designs, but the Silverking Residence’s split home feature, and how it was built, makes it a definite standout from others.

Developer Briston Peterson and realtor Craig Morris were longtime friends when they acquired the property; an old chalet. “Under the circumstances we felt like we got a great value on a tremendous property,” says Morris. The duo joined forces and spent 18 months designing and developing the Silverking Residence, which features a mirror image exterior and equally split residences of about 5,800 square feet. Silverking boasts stunning views–even by Aspen’s lofty standards–highlighted by the Maroon Bells; one of the top five mountain views in the country, says Peterson. On Peterson’s side, 12-foot glass walls presented a stunning view from the kitchen sink. “Our friendship made it easy to communicate during the process,” says Morris. “We did not build it as fast as we could have, but in the end it worked out fine.” The split-levels of the Silverking residence adds to the property’s distinct feel. An elevator on each side is key for moving around between levels. Peterson’s entry level led to the garage, while the main level featured the master bedroom, fireplace and living room. The pair enjoyed their time living in the Silverking Residence as their primary residence, eventually selling their individual sides of the residence. The views, unique design and maximization of the property’s square footage did not make it hard to find a buyer. More importantly, both Peterson and Morris enjoyed the experience and remain close friends to this day.

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Committed to Electrical Contracting Excellence

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Rowland + Broughton This multi-disciplinary firm takes a collaborative approach to design by Jamie Farshchi

Broughton is one half of the design team that makes up the multi-disciplinary architecture firm, Rowland + Broughton. Broughton and her partner, John Rowland established the firm in 2003 and work from two studio office spaces: Aspen and Denver, CO. Broughton says it is the firm’s affinity for reuse and sustainable design that sets them apart. “A large percentage of our work is remodel but we love doing ground-up, it’s definitely one of our strengths,” she says.

Ph. 970-945-6500 5317 County Rd 154, Suite 201 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

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The firm’s “Slope Style Condo,” situated directly beneath the Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen Mountain is one such remodel. Completed in 2010, the design took queues from original elements in the home such as the entranceway’s Mid-Century stained glass window. Rowland says it’s the firm’s commitment to their clients and a collaborative approach to design that drives their work.

“Just as much as we’re committed to the Aspen community we’re committed to our clients,” Rowland says. “Designing a home or a commercial space is so personal and such a responsibility we make sure every person is involved in the conceptual side. I think it’s a richer experience for all.” The firm’s “Caribou 6” home, an interior design project for a Canadian client, utilized a combination of custom and off-the-shelf pieces to achieve a modern aesthetic on a limited budget. The design incorporated what Rowland + Broughton call a “wood box” theme throughout. Using a wire-brushed hemlock fir, the firm created multi-use spaces that considered the particular needs of the client, such as a creative station in the living room, which allows the family to be together while doing different activities, and a lower-level office space that can be partitioned off with a sliding barn door. Both Rowland and Broughton pride themselves on being involved in each of the firm’s projects and each says the collaboration makes for a positive atmosphere that is unique in the design world. “Because John and I are family by extension we’ve created a family here, we like having that relationship and it sets a different tone,” Broughton says.

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photos: Ben Moss Photography

“It’s so gratifying to take something that looks dated and recreate it with a fresh design,” Sarah Broughton says.

“Just as much as we’re committed to the Aspen community we’re committed to our clients.” JOHN ROWLAND, PARTNER

01 The entranceway’s features are prime examples of the Mid-Century elements that can be found throughout the Slope Style Condo 02 Two custom sectional sofas upholstered in Holland and Sherry wools anchor the living room. A George Kovacs arc floor lamp and a Room and Board hair-onhide ottoman bring texture and vibrancy to the space 03 The kitchen walls were removed to provide a seamless transition between spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere

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“When Quality and Dependability Count”

Peach Valley Woodworks Custom Cabinetry & Design

Ph. 970.274.8227 5339 Peach Valley Rd. New Castle, CO PeachValleyWoodworks.com

Architectural Concrete Finishes, Inc. Glenwood Springs, CO Ph. 970.947.1616 | F. 970.947.9641 acﬁnc@sopris.net acﬁncofcolorado.com

Innovative Painting Systems, Inc. Ph. 970-963-1245 898 Hwy. 133, Suite 403 Carbondale CO, 81623 Owners Bill Barham - Efrain Martinez

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Janckila Construction

ARCHITECTs

Principles Over Ego Powers Aspen Developer

photo: Mountain Home Photo

by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford

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“We have always felt that what separates us from most builders is that we are very ethical and place our principle and purpose above our ego and economics.”

06 01 The cozy living room, complete with fireplace, is the perfect respite from the Aspen chill

Ken Janckila, principal

02 A large, glass shower has its own window that captures the Aspen views 03 One of the bedroom's in the home has a fireplace and plush couch 04 A porch overlooking Aspen trees is attached to another one of the home's bedrooms

05 The kitchen and dining area is surrounded by polished wood

esign and development trends may change over the years in residential real estate, but a firm commitment to principles is the foundation built by Janckila Construction that has led to their long-term success in the Aspen market.

06 Unique lighting fixtures bring a fresh look to the vacation home

“We have always felt that what separates us from most builders is that we are very ethical and place our principle and purpose above our ego and economics,” says Ken Janckila, owner-principal. “No matter if the project is 2,000 or 20,000 square feet, we take pride in our principles of our planning and the purpose of our work.” These principles and purpose are on full-display at Janckila’s 511 Edgewood project, a 5,000-square-foot residence with five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms and vaulted ceilings throughout the home.

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“We worked extensively with the architect to maximize spaces for living and entertainment because this is a vacation home,” says Janckila. “Vacation homes often have more specific purposes than a primary residence and you have to build with that in mind.”

Our commitment to quality and innovative craftsmanship has allowed us to competitively thrive in the high end custom home market. We pride ourselves on positive relationships and being able to meet the demands of customer suggestions to contract deadlines. We invite you

511 Edgewood is a vacation home that features a ski-in, ski-out entry. The property lot is tight and steep, which made for unique design challenges. Despite these challenges, the client was so pleased with 511 Edgewood that he has since hired Janckila for another project.

to contact us to help create the fun transition from dreams to reality! A MESSAGE FROM Architectural Concrete Finishes OUR SUCCESS is based on building relationships with the

“We take the responsibility of working with the owner, architect and interior design team to ensure a smooth process and a make it a fun and enjoyable experience for our client,” says Janckila. “We respect our clients and fulfill their needs, while they respect our principles, purpose and expertise. Regardless of the project, that will not change.”

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Architect, Contractor & Owner. The Architectural Concrete Finishes Team believes that to be successful we need to build those relationships with Integrity, Honesty & Respect . Please allow our team to build a relationship with you on your next Concrete project.

SUMMER 2012

regional focus / ASPEN

photoS: Mountain Home Photo

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Charles Cunniffe Architects A Collaborative Approach To Progressive Design

photos: David O. Marlow

by Jamie Farshchi

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02 01 Large gilded doors open to the foyer featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of Aspen's glorious mountains and valleys

“T

here’s something really special about Aspen,” says Charles Cunniffe, principal at Charles Cunniffe Architects. “There’s a magic to the town, the scale of the mountains, the valleys, the quality of the light, you can’t help but have that influence your work.”

02 Warm lighting and neutral colors create a classic and relaxing space for the master bathroom 03 Black and cream tones play a central theme in the bedroom

After moving to the mountain town in the late 70’s to work on the renovation and addition of the historic Hotel Jerome, Cunniffe established his namesake architecture firm out of a desire to work on progressive design in a collaborative environment. “It’s still at the heart of what we do,” he says. “We want our work to be of today with a respect for the past. We want our work to be influenced by the buildings and the surrounding landscape.”

04 The sleek 12-seat dining table faces floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the trees below

One of the firm’s local projects, “Aspen Manor,” a bold, 25,000-square-foot-residence with views of the Roaring Fork Valley, was built as a secondary residence with the intention of eventually becoming the client’s home. Cunniffe says the way the manor is scaled is an important element of its design. “It’s a large home but we didn’t want it to appear large,” he says. “We broke it into segments, each the scale of an average house. That means from most view points the home isn’t overwhelming and it relates better to its neighbours.”

top photo: David O. Marlow / lower photos: Steve Mundinger

This consideration of scale is also at work in the firm’s Little Nell residence, a vacation home perched directly beneath the Gondola on Aspen Mountain.

The three-story residence is designed to function in a number of different ways. The living area, kitchen, dining and master suite are positioned on the main floor, with lower levels dedicated to larger family living spaces and guest suites. The firm strives to find a balance between the design and its environment in each of their projects. “The site should speak to the architecture and the architecture should speak to the site,” Cunniffe says. It’s a design philosophy that Cunniffe says benefits from the efforts of many. “I am fortunate to work with a wonderful team of professionals,” Cunniffe says. “Our team’s approach is an in-depth collaboration between ourselves, our clients and all members of the building process.”

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we cover a lot of ground

Soil & Foundation Studies Geological & Environmental Assessments Construction Materials Quality Control

Z Group Architects Colorado firm transforms iconic public buildings into modern residential homes by Jamie Farshchi

Formed in 2004 as an offshoot of Caudill Gustafson & Associates Architects, the oldest continual architectural firm in Aspen, Z Group Architects has become a proficient full service firm in its own right. With principals Seth Hmielowski and Jim Gustafson at the helm, the firm has steered away from the public projects that served as Caudill Gustafson’s bread and butter for over 50 years, into the high-end residential market. Whether iconic public buildings or private residences, Z Group Architects strives to design projects that are appropriate to the surrounding environment.

Ph. 970.945.7988 5020 County Rd 154 Glenwood Springs, CO

“One of the things about working in a sparsely populated part of the country is that any single public building often has a significant impact within its community,” Gustafson says. “We pride ourselves on being contextual architects. We design buildings that are avant-garde but still fit within the context of the community.”

The firm’s “Northstar Residence” is proof positive. The 10,750-square- foot mountain contemporary residence is at once distinctive yet fitting into the mountain locale. “The clients came to us with a vision of a contemporary home that incorporates the character of the Rocky Mountains,” Seth Hmielowski says, “They wanted it to be light-filled, modern but appropriate to the mountain setting. So the same materials were utilized both inside and out to give it a sense of cohesiveness.” The residence is set on a long, narrow building enveloped between a steep slope and a major Aspen road. The challenge was to achieve the square footage the program required on such a narrow site. “The overall concept was formed naturally by the site,” Hmielowski says, “to fit the program to the site became a challenge, the constraints of the site forced the floor plan to go very linear.” “The more significant the challenge the more interesting the solution becomes,” Gustafson adds, “the solution that evolved in this instance was quite unique and that was in response to a unique challenge.”

HPGeotech.com SUMMER 2012

photos: Jason Dewey

Known as an architecture firm that has produced some of the most contemporary residences in Aspen, Z Group Architects is firmly rooted in history.

01 The kitchen is nestled within the long row of natural stone walls 02 The exterior of the home is modern with touches of natural elements 03 The residence mirrors the distinctive features of the Rocky Mountains where it resides

A MESSAGE FROM HP Geotech HP Geotech is a traditional geotechnical engineering company that provides support to local architects, engineers, contractors and owners throughout Aspen and the Roaring Fork River valley. We specialize in the challenges that face mountain designs. Our primary goal is to maintain client loyalty through personal excellent service on every project.

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Weiss & Wirth

Work hard and work smart is central to this aspen team by Jamie Farshchi

The effervescent Wirth established her Aspen, CO-based design firm in August 2001. With a background in fashion, as a buyer for Ralph Lauren and formal training in art history and graphic design, some might say the transition to interiors was almost preordained. Wirth herself says it was through a lot of hard work and dedication that she came to operate a successful design firm. “I really believe that I’m only as good our team,” she says. “We have an amazing team of people here and it’s the team that ultimately makes these projects what they are - the amazing clients we have and the terrific architects, builders, and subcontractors we’re working together to do something unusual, to create something special.”

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One such project is the firm’s Maroon Creek Cabana, a 1,100-square-foot-poolside cabin just meters from the client’s main house, featuring a spectacular infinity-edge swimming pool, outdoor living and dining area and “his and hers” steam room and shower. The clients have an affinity with the water and love to boat around Nantucket Island. Wirth translated this affinity by incorporating Nantucket green – which resembles faded sea foam - into the cream, black and ivory color palette. It’s this gentle, guiding-hand approach to design that Wirth says is central to the way her firm operates. “We really pride ourselves in designing for the client, for their wishes and wants,” she says. “We really want the client very involved. By taking them through the design process the way we do, it’s easy for them to say, ‘I picked it!’ ”

01 The custom designed infinity-edge swimming pool sits just feet away from the outdoor living area and his and hers steam showers 02 Natural stone and a warm color palette create a cool and relaxing space in the cabana bathroom 03 The outdoor living area offers comfortable lounge seating with views of the mountain tops

photos: Deborah Cota, Studo

“Design is like braiding a horse’s tail,” Joyce Wirth says, “all that loose hair is wild in the wind. Then you braid the tail. Braid over braid over braid, you tie up all that loose hair and come to a finished, polished look.”

Credits Architect: Brewster Mcleod Architects Builder: Brikor Associates

SUMMER 2012

August Reno Architects Reliability of Long-Time Reputation Matched by Focus on Sustainability by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford August Reno Architects has built a stellar reputation in the Aspen market for the past 25 years, focusing on high-end residential and commercial work. Although veterans of the industry, they were quick to implement sustainable building practices, and this aspect has become a focus of their firm. “A key element of our mission statement is creating architecture with lasting value,” says Principal August Reno.

AUGUST RENO PHOTO: MICHAEL BRANDS / KAREN WHITE INTERIOR DESIGN PHOTO: Jeremy Swanson

Their Red Mountain Residence boasts that type of lasting value, as it was a comprehensive remodel and

addition project. A new master suite, three-car garage, elevator, golf room, recreation area and decks were designed as additions to the existing structure. “We had to deal with the strict county development codes and restrictions during this process,” says Reno. “It was an interesting challenge because we had to deal with the wildlife, too. That made for an even more intense site analysis that had to mesh with the zoning restrictions and the client’s needs.” The 7,500-square-foot home underwent extensive remodeling, allowing natural light to work with the

architectural lighting that is the primary lighting source throughout the rooms. These custom lighting layers were built at the owner’s request. The interior design is highlighted by smoked oak wood floors and custom African wenge woodwork that complements the concrete structure. The modernization of the Red Mountain Residence interior was equally as important as the exterior additions to transform the estate into a modern, Aspen residence. Despite the dramatic changes, Reno stayed true to his firm’s sustainability principles and satisfied all his client’s needs for the project. “We were practicing sustainability here long before green building was in style,” Reno says. “And for this project we satisfied the three clients--the real client, the government zoning client and the neighborhood.”

Karen White Interior Design Selecting the Right Interior Design for the Modern Mountain Style Home by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford Karen White has established herself in the Aspen market with a mountain contemporary style influenced by the needs of her clients. Her company, Karen White Interior Design, was hired by builder Mike Tanguay of Aspen Constructors, Inc.to design the Aspen Speculative Residence Project. “We used rich walnut wood finishes, floors and doors,” she says. “We used a lot of blue stone, contrasts and rich finishes. The high-end smooth color walls and white finishes made the blue and walnuts pop. We kept the main pieces neutral in the living room, utilizing off-white, tan and beige.”

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White’s attention to detail for lighting is what differentiates her from many of her peers. The Aspen Speculative Residence Project is a testimony to that detail. The entire residence maximizes light sources throughout, most notably in the kitchen and living room area. White performed an in-depth analysis of light sources for the property before implementing her design. “We have intense light in Colorado and it is always changing from winter to summer,” says White. “It is always better to have too many light sources than not enough. That is a significant part of my mountain contemporary style design and it helps us stay in demand.”

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"we ask the right questions so we can produce the right results.” STEVE WHIPPLE, PRINCIPAL

WWII Hangar Developed Into Stunning Aspen Property by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford A property that served as a hangar during World War II does not seem like the foundation of a modern day residential development in Aspen, but Snowdance Ranch is just that, though it is less surprising once you know the family history of its developer. Steve Whipple, Principal of Whipple & Brewster, has developing in his blood. Brewster is his mother’s surname and they established their name in the transportation industry early in the 20th century building carriages for a legendary client list including, Rolls Royce, Tiffany and the Rockefeller and Astor families.

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“Knowing my family’s history has been an obvious influence in my career,” says Whipple. “I have always wanted to make my developments bigger and better with elegance throughout. The owner of Snowdance Ranch wanted a property with a history to it and we accomplished just that with the development.” To create the desired end product at Snowdance Ranch, a perfect alignment of trees were created to surround the property to create its own atmosphere. Irrigation lines were placed on the property as well as a manmade lake Whipple jokingly refers to as a “half-million gallon

aquarium,” filled with carp and several other types of fish. The Snowdance Ranch property also is home to an entire animal ecosystem. “We created a true, one-of-a-kind sanctuary,” says Whipple. Stunning views are always important in Aspen residential real estate development, and Snowdance Ranch boasts the largest windows the market would produce. Although materials, design and development are key elements to the success of Whipple & Brewster, Whipple believes in an old-fashioned business tradition for his success, placing himself in his client’s position. “You have to personalize each development and imagine your own family living there,” says Whipple. “Sometimes you can do too much market research and forget how family life works. That is important in our design philosophy--we ask the right questions so we can produce the right results.”

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photos: Michael Brands

Whipple & Brewster

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Koru Ltd. Award-Winning Historical Aspen Ambiance by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford

“It was a tight lot, so we were very happy to see how it all came out and the recognition it has received,” says Antony Cullwick, principal of Koru LTD. “The tight space was an enjoyable and fun issue that allowed us to create a unique finished product that is different from what you see in east Aspen.” The Riverside Residence is three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, and was designed by Studio B, a local Aspen architecture firm. A unique railing structure with holes supports the

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structure’s offset exterior design. Glass panels separate the floors and light is transmitted up and down the staircase. “Riverside was built for a young local Aspen couple who wanted a house to live in, but still have fun, relax and showcase their fine art,” says Cullwick. “There are a number of customized built-in features in the house to maximize the use of space. We like to create the perfect environment for all of our clients and take on ownership across an entire project.” The custom-built cabinetry is another highlight of Riverside, described by Cullwick as “fun, practical, modern and warm.” The upper cabinets feature a high-gloss white laminate and the base cabinets feature zebrawood.

“Susan Okie with Studio B did the interior package and came up with several creative solutions and features that is a big part in the recognition it has received,” says Cullwick. The custom cabinets are a great fit for the handtextured oak wood floors from Arrigoni Woods, a Vail, CO-based company. LED lighting is also another customized feature that utilizes green design. “We are not a typical construction company--we are enthusiastic and committed to delivering on our promise,” says Cullwick. “Our experience within all phases of the construction process and our practical knowledge and appreciation for a wide variety of design styles enables us to deliver remarkable results. Riverside is a beautifully-designed contemporary home and it is worthy of all the accolades it is receiving.”

SUMMER 2012

photos: Jason Dewey

History tends to repeat itself, but for the Riverside Residence in Aspen, everything that is old is new again as the development was recently awarded the Historical Preservation Award in 2011 from the Aspen Historical Society.

Richard Wax & Associates Traditional Aspen Home Shows Luxury Living at its Finest by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford In nearly a half-century as one of Aspen’s top residential real estate developers, Richard Wax & Associates have earned a stellar reputation for luxury in one of the country’s most prestigious markets. A recent highlight in their portfolio is 386 Pfister Drive, a five bedroom, seven-bathroom residence priced at $12 million.

The master bedroom suite is 1,500 square feet with ski-in, ski-out access. Not to be outdone, the kitchen was designed by Sub-Zero & Wolf Appliances and won an Aspen award for kitchen of the year in 2008. An indoor theater and recreation room features a beautiful waterfall and ski-in, ski-out access.

“It is a marvelous, refreshing floor plan that is not stuffy and implements an innovative design with contemporary features with a true meaning and purpose using the Aspen environment,” says Jeff Davis, Vice President at Richard Wax & Associates. “It is a ski-in, ski-out home that features timber tresses, timber beams and a wood ceiling. We were looking for the timber, cabin, chalet lodge traditional Aspen feel, but in a current 21st century fashion.”

Despite the vastness of its estate, Richard Wax & Associates paid close attention to detail throughout the residence. The state-of-the-art technology is combined with a craftsmanship, spirit and ambiance of the luxury experience, providing the client with the long-term satisfaction they originally requested.

photo: Michael Brands

386 Pfister Drive is nestled in the Aspen Forest on Tiehack Mountain at the renowned Maroon Creek Golf Club. It boasts stunning views of the Aspen Highlands, Red Mountain, Hunter Creek and Tiehack Mountain.

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“The residence is traditional Aspen, but almost urban in its refinement,” says Davis. “That is the most fulfilling part of the project, when the client gets to move into their dream home and enjoy the finished product. This is an estate that exceeds expectations and provides the client with a brilliant living experience that can last a lifetime.”

Brewster Mcleod Architects Limiting Projects Maximizes Attention to Clients for Architecture Firm by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford

1560 Tiehack Road is one of these precision projects. Completed in the summer of 2010, this single-family home is 14,000 square feet with four-bedrooms and six-bathrooms. The residence features an interior lap pool, full theater and exercise area.

work can be done without the interruption of guests on the other levels. It also has its own bathroom, deck and patio. A recreation room with a pool table, bar and wine room on the same level adds a distinct feel, along with separate living quarters for staff that features a kitchen, bathroom and living area. Brewster McLeod did just that with The Hill residence project, which has a unique Cabana with a spa, putting green and infinity pool that connects to the home. The Cabana also has a large, prep kitchen, inside and outside living space and doors that open to the fireplace.

“It is a steep, unique lot because it goes down to the river and we needed to screen it from the Heated patios and heated walking paths make the development across the river for privacy purposes,” cabana area enjoyable during the winter or sumsays Owner and Principal Jamie L. Brewster mer and breathtaking views of two ski mountains McLeod. “It is really a four-level house with a sub are available from the pool. grade, basement, office and main level. All the “Even though every project is special, we still want main services are on the main level because they wanted the residence to live like a small house.” to make sure it has that Aspen flair,” says McLeod. “I push luxury living, enjoying a residence that lives A unique touch to 1560 Tiehack is the executive well and is designed for you, not just something suite on the upper level, an isolated level where that looks good on paper.”

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01 Creative lighting in the home's infinity pool blurs the line of perception mimicking the seamless transition from interior to exterior space 02 The dining room has cozy seating options and views to the surrounding Aspen woods from full-scale windows 03 The home rests peacefully on Aspen's green landscape

photos: Michael Brands

The competitive, fast-paced nature of Aspen’s residential development market is to be expected, and even enjoyed by some architects. But for Brewster McLeod Architects, a hands-on approach with their clients leads to precision projects in the high-end luxury home market.

SUMMER 2012

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Robert G. Sinclair Architecture Superb design is in the details for Aspen based firm by Jamie Farshchi A ski vacation brought Robert Sinclair to Aspen in 1991. Twenty years later he’s still there, having worked for a number of local firms before opening Robert G. Sinclair Architecture in 2002. “Aspen is an amazing place to live,” he says, “with access to world class skiing and amazing cultural and community opportunities. It’s a great place to raise a family.” Sinclair studied architecture at University of Southern California and Syracuse University in Italy before settling in Aspen. The firm designs residential projects countrywide and has offices in both Aspen, CO and Milwaukee, WI. Sinclair says it’s the varied client base that takes the firm all over the country. “Aspen is the kind of place where your client might be from Australia or Europe or New York,” he says. “They have or want to build homes across the country so that affords you opportunities when you do great work for them here.”

The stately 15,000-square-foot residence is situated on 44 acres near the base of the West Buttermilk chairlift. The property also features a 6,000-square-foot stable along with a two-bedroom caretaker apartment. The house features reclaimed wood and slate; a consideration Sinclair says was integral to the design. “Even in such a large house we still design them to be as efficient as possible,” he says, “with this kind of scale, selecting reclaimed materials is a challenge; you have to ensure that the reclaimed material is in plentiful supply.” It is details like these that are central to the firms design ethos, offering unique solutions for each project.

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01 The formal dining room imparts an air of elegance with traditional and vibrant interiors 02 A vintage aesthetic fills the bathroom with aged wood floors and cabinets

photos: David O. Marlow

The firm designed their West Buttermilk Estate for a repeat client who had owned property in Aspen and opted to move their family there full time. “It was nice to build for a specific family, we knew them before but definitely got to develop a better understanding of how they live through the design process,” he says.

03 The lavish living area features high wood-beamed ceilings with natural stone and reclaimed wood floors

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ARCHITECTs

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was nice to build for a specific family, we knew them before but definitely got to develop a better understanding of how they live through the design process.â&#x20AC;? Robert G. sinclair, principal

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Hayes Construction Aspen builder has high expectations and an affinity for fine details by Jamie Farshchi

With a background in fine woodworking, founder of Hayes Construction, Doug Hayes, says it’s his attention to the specifics of the project that allows him to meet client expectations. “Fine woodworking is a great discipline to come from, I’ve always enjoyed doing the fine details and it informs a lot of my work.” Hayes’ Maroon Creek Residence is a case in point. The company built the home from the ground up in 2007 and was brought back to do a remodel for new owners after the house was sold. “The new owners brought in fantastic designers from Florida, we redid the interior in a style

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they call Mountain contemporary around here – modern fixtures with a warmer feel,” he says. It’s this attention to detail and commitment to client relationships that Hayes says is at the core of the business’ success. “It’s valuable to me to maintain that relationship with the client, so we stay in contact with them and make sure they’re happy,” he says. Hayes’ “Starwood Residence” is a project the company has worked on over a number of years, building a strong relationship with the client. The company was hired to create some stunning additions to the home, such as the large copper inground pool and spa.

01 The copper swimming pool by Diamond Spa Inc. is a natural blend with the home's exterior for the Starwood Residence 02 Views of the skyline from the terrace and swimming pool offer a calm and tranquil retreat 03 The Maroon Creek Residence captures mountain contemporary at its finest with a mixture of clean lines and traditional materials

“The clients we work with in Aspen have a very refined taste, but it’s one of the few places where you can really enjoy the process,” Hayes says. “It’s rewarding when you finish and think, ‘that’s really, really cool.’ It’s not always fun, like in any job there’s a lot of work involved, but it is very rewarding."

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Copper Pool Images: Brent Bingham | Photo Effects | Edwards, CO

After 10 years in Aspen, CO, Hayes Construction has built an impressive portfolio of mountain homes. From remodels of historic buildings to ground-up builds of modern retreats, Hayes specializes in unique projects built in the stunning but often harsh climate of Aspen and its surrounds.

regional focus / ASPEN

“Fine woodworking is a great discipline to come from, I’ve always enjoyed doing the fine details and it informs a lot of my work.” Doug Hayes, founder

a message from Pine Mountain Electric, Inc. Pine Mountain Electric, Inc. is located in the Roaring Fork Valley. We pride ourselves in the relationships we have built with general contractors, owners & designers. In order to achieve the results our clients expect, we realize that communication skills with all involved is important. Our work ethic and customer service are our top priority from start to finish. Your goals are our goals. Contact us at 970-945-1395 or rob@pinemtn.net.

03 a message from Diamond Spa Inc. Diamond Spas manufactures custom stainless steel and copper spas, swimming pools, swim spas, cold plunge pools, water features and bath fixtures. In addition, Diamond Spas is launching a new Architectural Metal Products division fabricating outdoor kitchens, custom copper and stainless steel cabinetry, stairway systems and decorative artistic metal for both indoor and outdoor applications. All product is fabricated by hand and built precisely to the clients specifications. Diamond Spas is family owned and operated and since 1996 has been providing luxury markets around the world with with the very best in sustainable, sophisticated custom metal products. Proudly made in the USA. www.diamondspas.com 1.800.951.7727

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If it’s electrical, we’ll do it.

Greg Watts Photography

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PROJECTS A look into how industry professionals turn lackluster spaces into livable, yet intriguing residences

The Tribeca Loft BY GRADE ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN / PHOTO Francis Dzikowski luxuryhomequarterly.com

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Gertler &Wente Architects LLP Environmental gestures in form and practice

photos: Gertler & Wente Architects

by Andrew Santa Lucia

PROJECTS

t best, architecture is situated in a two-fold way: as an environment and in an environment. Gertler & Wente Architects LLP do not shy away from either consideration, instead using a relative approach to craft and construction, which achieves their responsibility to both. Couple this with a strong commitment to social sustainability and you have the foundation for a truly engaged contemporary architecture practice.

Gertler & Wente Architects from New York, NY, “started in 1985 and from the very beginning we made a decision to be as diverse as we possibly could be…to keep the projects more engaging, more interesting, by making them more varied. We do everything from retail work to institutional (university buildings), not-for-profit, residential and healthcare,” says Larry Wente, one of the founding principals of Gertler and Wente Architects. This approach has not only yielded a lucrative and versatile business model, but also an extremely creative and optimally varied oeuvre for 26 years. When Wente was asked about the formal differences in his firm’s buildings, he says, “The retail and residential work is extremely related.”

the contractor’s side are that the retail work is as finely executed as the residential work, therefore we are extremely demanding on-site.” This demand and control effectively guides the work from a highly articulate idea to an expertly detailed reality.

business as usual for Gertler & Wente. “Before we did the center project we have worked with Louis Vuitton-Moët Hennessy (L.V.M.H.) for 12-13 years at that point, starting with Christian Dior stores…and moving into working with Luis Vuitton stores about 8 years ago,” says Wente.

At the center of this relative approach is detail. Aside from their responsibilities to their clients, as well as society and ecology, Gertler & Wente’s process begins in the disciplinary realm of drawing. “They (drawings) form to a very high level of detail,” says Wente. “Every inch is poured over and thought through. Our expectations from

This is exemplified clearly in their Louis Vuitton Flagship Store at City Center in Las Vegas, NV completed in 2009. Inserting themselves into the global discussion of corporate branding and immersive architectural environments, alongside the likes of practices such as O.M.A. with Prada, as well as Zaha Hadid with Chanel Mobile, it was

This megalithic structure is also a L.E.E.D. Gold project, meaning it had to mitigate its environmental impact, as much as it had to create a reflective global brand and icon in Las Vegas.

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Oddly enough, Wente says that, “the smallest portion of our work is commercial work,” while,

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a message from Heitmann Builders Heitmann Builders has been building and renovating some of the finest homes in the Hudson Valley for over 50 years. From historic renovation to contemporary designs, Heitmann Builders brings our extensive experience, attention to detail, and the highest standards in craftsmanship and quality, to help realize your dream home. a message from Jay Brennan Fine Woodworking. Jay Brennan has fulfilled architects, designers and builders designs in wood for over 34 years. Manufacturing architectural woodworking, including whole house cabinetry and stand alone furnishings - Exotic and domestic species - Traditional and contemporary designs - "Discover a Quality Experience" Call Jay - (845) 265-1068 8:005:00 EST or Email: jbfw@live.com. www. JayBrennan.com a message from Creekside Millwork With outstanding precision and world-class architectural designs, Creekside Millwork will deliver finely handcrafted hardwood doors that will create elegance and grace to your homes decor. Make a statement -entering or exiting- with quality interior and exterior doors from the superb craftsmen of Creekside Millwork, LLC. a message from Norwood The skilled designers and craftspeople of Norwood’s custom shop have been turning dreams into reality for over 60 years. Using exotic woods, custom shapes, specialized colors and intricate designs, Norwood’s custom shop

Millerton Residence

reaches beyond our standard product line to create the truly unique and unusual.

The Millerton House is one of the most sustainable houses built by Gertler & wen-

a message from Herrington's

te, employing everything from gray water In terms of orientation and site design the house is in line with wind control in mind. Building materials used throughout the house included recycled tiles and stone; and all the wood was registered and purchased from green sustainable forests. Keeping up with their social sustainability they hired local craftsmen and builders to execute the construction. It’s become commonplace for their residential work. Gertler & Wente also identify building waste as another key issue and based the Millerton House on a four-foot grid, “because a lot of material comes in fourfoot increments - to mitigate building and construction waste.”

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Ed Herrington, Inc., is a family owned and

“retail is about a one third of our work all around the country…we have managed to remain engaged with all those (aforementioned) sectors.” In regards to which sector they feel most engaged with, they stressed a strong local community relationship in New York City. “We have a strong commitment to the not-for-profit world, specifically community health centers around the poorest parts of New York and other not-for-profit institutional clients.”

operated building materials supplier that has been serving Architects, Fine Home Builders, and Homeowners in Eastern New York and Western New England for over 100 years. Herrington’s offers residential building and renovation solutions with quality lumber (FSC available on request), hardware, custom doors and windows, replacement windows, kitchen design, countertop fabrication, architectural and landscaping stone, and the complete line of Benjamin

Gertler & Wente bring out expertly-crafted private residences through versatility in the drawing of an idea, detailed craft and a commitment to a home’s surrounding environment. This kind of dedication is why Gertler & Wente continue to aim for, and succeed in, quality residences.

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SUMMER 2012

photos: Gertler & Wente Architects

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Dave Tuggey Construction California builder turns a 1960's home into tropical oasis

photos: jon robershaw

by Brian Libby

PROJECTS

ave Tuggey, of Dave Tuggey Construction, grew up in Los Angeles amongst furniture built by his carpenter-grandfather. As a teen, he built a kayak for a school project and fell in love with making and designing things. College classes in architecture followed, but when a construction-technology professor invited Tuggey to work on his crew, he could not pass on the opportunity, and accepted. “I had a knack and just stayed with it,” he says. “We were working on houses for movie stars and having fun.” This continued until 1984, when Tuggey started his own company and he has worked on various projects since. One of Tuggey’s recent projects, the Martin Lane residence, is the renovation of a 1962 house, which faintly resembles the famed Case Study houses of that period; glassy boxes by architects such as Richard Neutra. But the design-construction team—including architect Kalani Jensen and interior designer Kym Rodger, both longtime friends of Tuggey—shared a desire to add warmth, water and greenery. “I’d worked on modern houses with a lot of Terrazzo floors and stone, but I’d always felt them a little cold,” Tuggey says. “The owner of Martin Lane had seen those houses and asked me if we’d like to do something similar for a

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Martin Lane Residence If shared living and dining spaces in the Martin Lane residence flow into one another, the master suite is a more secluded oasis. “To me when the house seemed old Hollywood where you’d have guests over for the weekend

ate more of an escape in the master,” interior designer Kym Rodger says. Floor-to-ceiling glass offers panoramic views of Pacific Ocean. The pool and hot tub just beyond the glass walls act as a natural buffer from the rest of the outdoor deck. “You feel like you’re looking out at a lagoon,” builder Dave Tuggey says. Twin bathrooms, one masculine with Balinese pebbled walls and the other in Calcutta white marble and teak, also include a glass-enclosed steam shower and soaking tub, respectively. They lead outside to a shared shower. “There’s nothing better than a shower outside,” Rodger says. “Very liberating.”

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house he just bought, but to add some more textures that weren’t so sharp–to just soften it up and make it more of a home.” The team dedicated a wall in Tuggey’s office to pinning photos and magazine clippings for inspiration, which helped lead toward a tropical feel. “I started pinning up inspiration from all over the world: Balinese, Japanese, Chinese. It was a really organic project,” says Kym Rodger. The house’s new entry

creates a transformation for people coming inside, a glassy pavilion with a living wall and water flowing down on either side. “One of the key words we used was ‘floating,’” says Rodger. “I knew the house needed something at the opening to make you say, ‘Wow.’” The floor plan of the original house was expanded with new bedrooms and bathrooms and a reconfigured master suite, the latter of which includes

SUMMER 2012

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his and hers bathrooms. Besides the main rooms, there are small adjacent spaces such as a wine room and a bar area with cozy seating. More than just space inside, though, the team sought to bring the outdoors in. “Wherever you are in the house, you’re getting to feel the landscaping,” Rodger says. “We really stood back at every angle and said, what are you going to look at here? What’s beautiful?” Most of the house, including the living area and master bedroom, open onto the pool.

to a more casual attached family room and views of downtown Los Angeles. “When we first put the kitchen in, I worried it might be a little too clean,” Tuggey says. “But as people moved in and began to use it, the warmness of it all came out. The way it all flows is perfect. It’s just a little bit of heaven in that house. “It’s been my greatest joy to see all of it come together.”

For added warmth in texture, the team chose European white oak flooring with teak doorframes. “A walnut might have been a little too dark, and to continue the teak everywhere might have been overbearing,” Tuggey says. “This light wood was just perfect.” This contrasts with the sleekness of the kitchen, with its black limestone floors and stainless steel mono-block countertop, giving way

a message from executive stone

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Fully licensed and insured, Executive Stone has been providing Southern California with exceptional ceramic, stone, mosaic, and stone-veneer installation for over 20 years. From residential to commercial projects, we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and attention to detail. We are proud to work with Dave Tuggey Construction and KRodger3.

7402 Varna Ave. North Hollywood, Ca 91605 P: 818.765.0900 • F: 818.765.0999 Info@ExecutiveStone.com www.ExecutiveStone.com

projects

GRADE Architecture & Interior Design Edward Yedid and Thomas Hickey excel at designing a “captivating space for entertaining” by Isabel Eva Bohrer photos Francis Dzikowski + Michael Weber

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The Tribeca Loft The New York City loft, which used to be an artist’s studio, is three floors consisting of a media room, salon, as well as living room, dining room and master bathroom. The living room and dining room area exemplify a superb confluence of light and texture within a black and white palette. Light from pre-existing skylights strikes against ebonized wood floors and mahogany door frames painted black. Breaking from the apartment’s stark black and white motif, the kitchen’s design exudes a sense of softness and warmth, flowing overinto the adjacent dining area. A combination of Makassar ebony andwhite glass cabinets and white Caesar stone countertops lend this room a delicate, almost ethereal quality. Wood beams and exposed brick were left in their original condition to juxtapose otherwise tailored elements like ebonized oak floors and the GRADE custom designed and stained cerused white oak media unit.

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“The challenge was to take a loft that was originally designed for entertaining and transform it into a home for family living.” Edward Yedid, principal

hen interior designer Edward Yedid’s close college friend Marc Ravner asked him for help with renovating his family’s Tribeca loft, he immediately said yes. This original favor among friends turned into a full-on involvement of GRADE, the architecture and interior design firm led by Yedid and his business partner, Thomas Hickey. Hickey,Yedid’s former studio professor at Parsons School of Design, founded GRADE in 2001. After graduating in 2003,Yedid seized the opportunity to join the firm in 2004 and quickly became a partner.

Collaborating on every aspect as they do with all their projects, Yedid and Hickey began by renovating the top two floors of the Tribeca Loft. “The clients asked us to design a place where they could hang out after a night out – after the club, after hours,” Yedid says. “They wanted a captivating space for entertaining.” The overall design of the loft was to be “cool and sexy,” he says. Incorporating the clients’ love of black and white was also key. This year, after the Ravner’s had their second child, a third floor was added, making the overall residence span over 7,000 square feet. “The challenge was to take a loft that was originally designed for entertaining and transform it into a home for family living,” says Yedid. The initial emphasis on entertainment is not new to the building. The Tribeca Loft is part of a condominium that used to house Tribeca’s famous underground nightclub, The Mudd Club. In fact, Ravner is a principal at Magnum Real Estate Group, and it was his choice to turn the location of this subversive club into a condominium that includes his family’s multi-floor home. Occupying the top three floors, the Tribeca Loft used to be an artist’s studio. In its newly renovated state, it still retains traces of this former locale. The living room, for example, includes a painting by the artist who used to work within precisely these creative walls.

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The first room when you enter the loft serves multiple purposes. For one, it is a circulation room for visitors to transition to the larger salon. More than that, it is also a Media Room. Hickey and Yedid designed a custom stained media unit, including a hidden pocket for a screen. This way, the room can tastefully serve as both family room and home theater (when the screen is down). In addition to the media unit, Hickey and Yedid are particularly proud of the dining table and the glass coffee table, both of which they also custom designed. The composition in the master bathroom, including a floating bathtub, is another favorite of theirs. Here, in the master bathroom, they resorted to grigio carnico, an Italian marble that fits in perfectly with the black and white theme that characterizes the loft throughout. Overall, the Tribeca Loft is more than representative of Hickey and Yedid’s working style. “The approach we have to design is a rather traditional process of research and analysis of precedence,” says Hickey. “Through this process, we translate

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our research in to a modern vision resulting in a design solution that is grounded and personal to each client.” As such, the final product also corresponds to the lifestyles of their clients. “Sexy, fresh and clean,” is the running leitmotif of their designs, says to Hickey. As for the future of GRADE, Yedid hints that their next project might be a hotel. “Between doing high-end residential homes, luxury retail, restaurants and different public spaces, we would like to bring that all together in a hotel,” he says. A hotel, he feels “will exhibit all of our strengths in one space.” But Yedid and Hickey will not yet reveal where that space will be. Though GRADE is based in Manhattan, the firm has clients all over the world. “I think our global exposure is starting to connect in a lot of different markets,” says Hickey. “We have projects in South America, India, U.A.E., Turkey, East Asia. We haven’t had Japan yet, but we’ve been told that’s where we need to go next.”

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