Blog

  Outdoor kitchen options are increasing as companies offer more durable appliances that will withstand the temperature changes. Refrigerators and wine coolers are options to consider with the sink, the bar area and the grill. Add a pizza oven or a Big Green Egg! Either can be used alone or...

What’s up with roofing? Most people don’t think about their roof until it leaks or the home inspector tells the buyer there are problems! Properly done, a roof in Arizona (This varies greatly by climate.) can last 30 - 40 years with proper maintenance. Check for cracks or other damage...

Stark Carpet manufactures this black wool carpet embedded with Swarovski crystals. This is a very popular area rug for powder rooms and is also used as borders on larger rugs. Yes, it can be vacuumed. Always use a self-adjusting vacuum as the vacuum should not drag on your carpet or...

Natural stone and other fireplace and exterior detailing materials are usually specified by the architect.  Visit local sources for inspiration or take pictures of your preferences to local sources to check availability and cost.  Plan ahead to secure products that will give your home the unique, individualized look you want. ...

Can a designer save you money? That’s a resounding yes! As the quote warns “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” Throwing money at all details does not always create the defined focal points that separate a great look from a confusing one. Scale is so important! Great architects...

What a dilemma! An appliance is failing and needs to be replaced immediately! Recently, a client’s built-in refrigerator was doing just that. The replacement got here before the old one died but that was just the beginning of the work! New wood panels had to be made and anew handle...

When remodeling take every ceiling and door way to a least 8’ and raise as many ceiling above 8’ as you can afford. I tour luxury homes every other week and hear the feedback of the realtors selling luxury homes. They recognize low ceilings as older sections of the house...

A good formula for ceilings is the trim color plus 50% white. Cream is better for the ceiling than a dead white. It is also a good place to save $ as it does not need to be washable. Use a reflective, glossy glaze on a low ceiling for height...

Family photos are the most personal part of your home. If you enjoy having some out, here are a variety of ways to use them: They are typically in the private areas of your home - shelves added in the master bedroom, hallways to bedrooms and large master bath and...

If looking at the black screen is not desirable, there many options for integrating your TV using wood framing or stone. If you want to hide it completely, cabinetry such as this one from Horchow or an antique cabinet won't call attention to the TV. On the other hand, this...