Author: Yarstions

Geometric wallpaper, traces of natural substances and thoughtful personal touches fully remodeled this nook in a San Francisco Bay Area kitchen. Interior designer Cristin Priest was tired of this dark space that sat just around the corner from her kitchenand wanted to inject it with color and a feeling of relaxation. A fun new palette and practical additions make this perfect hangout area for her and her kids. Cristin Priest Simplified Bee The 6- by 6 1/2-foot nook now has a brand new feel. A mix of cheerful green and warm organic tones creates an inviting area. Before Photo Cristin Priest Simplified Bee BEFORE: Constructed in 1940, Priest’s house had the proof of its era. The nook was initially equipped simply with wooden benches and a Formica table (which had already been replaced when this photo was taken). “It was magical, but it needed a little facelift,” she says. The kelly…

As the wife of an expert carpenter, I’ve been spoiled by being able to fill my house with rich architectural details for merely the cost of stuff. We have established a space with a coffered ceiling, added crown molding throughout our house and even appointed carriage doors to our garage from scratch. Next on our architectural jazzification list is installing vertical tongue and groove wall paneling in our dining room. Tongue and groove joints allow flat pieces of wood to be combined together to create a single level surface. Famous for their rich texture, stripy pattern and ability to dramatically heighten the interest of a space, vertical tongue and groove walls are spectacular in comparison to the blank canvas of shingles. We are especially excited to include tongue and groove since it’s an efficient method to provide the illusion that a space is larger than it actually is. Our dining…

Often it seems we hear more awful stories than good in regards to client-contractor relations. Miscommunication on either side is a frequent culprit. In my experience it has been simpler to discuss topics and aligning present relationships compared to start over entirely with a new company. Due to mutual respect and an awareness of each other’s expectations, my builders and I’ve build lasting relationships. They believe vested in the project and take a personal interest in helping me look good in the opinion of my clientele. Listed below are a some tips that have helped me get the best from my builders — and from other support professionals as well. Remember that payment is overriding. Pay your builders in a timely manner, in accord with the work completed. This stage cannot be stressed enough. Your payment makes it possible for the builder to cover his or her subcontractors, vendors and…

“My clients are parents and grandparents that love spending time with family and enjoy life,” says architect Mark Tate. Thus, they proposed their dream retirement home in Desert Mountain, Arizona, to add three guest rooms so everyone could come live with them. This magnificent desert home opens to views that stretch 40 miles, whereas cautious orientation and overhangs protect the insides out of the relentless desert sun. Outdoor living has been a priority also, so there’s a lounging patio an outdoor kitchen, a pool and a hot tub. “I wanted to bring the desert to the house for my clients to appreciate,” says Tate. “We very carefully incorporated the house to the landscape and treated the website as gently as possible.” at a GlanceWho lives here: A retired couple with a major family who loves to visitLocation: Scottsdale, ArizonaSize: 5,600 square feet; 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 bathrooms, office, workout roomThat’s intriguing:…