Symmetry Spring 2014

Spring-Summer 2014

Design

Build

Remodel

Remodeler’s Resource Guide Included

www.VentanaMan.com 512-388-9400 1609 Chisholm Trail #100, Round Rock

4

Symmetr y

President’s Message

Board of Directors

If you have picked up this issue of Symmetry Central Texas, you are already on the right path to a great remodeling project. Most likely you found this magazine at an Austin Home Show, your favorite vendor’s showroom, or it was handed to you by a contractor or subcontractor. That also means that you just met a member of NARI’s Austin chapter. NARI stands for the National Association of Remodeling Industry and is the only national organization dedicated to the professional remodeling industry.

2014 Board of Directors Austin NARI President

The articles in this magazine feature members from the Austin NARI chapter. The ideas, pictures and quotes in the articles are sourced directly from members. The back section of the magazine also features a full membership guide to the Austin chapter, complete with icons representing the specialties of each member.

Vice President

NARI members are composed of architects, designers, general contractors, vendors and subcontractors. By combining the strength and knowledge base of these various fields, a NARI member is well positioned to deliver a high quality product. Being part of a nationally recognized professional organization speaks to the credibility of its members. We are unique in that members are encouraged to work together on projects and to be sounding boards for each other when a difficult situation arises. Austin NARI strongly believes in keeping its members informed of trends, issues, practices and techniques through semi-monthly meetings.

Additionally, our liaison with the City of Austin keeps members up to date on building code changes.

Savana Beckman Schroeder Carpet

President Elect Chris Risher RisherMartin Fine Homes Jeff Bullard Avenue B Development, LLC

Treasurer Chris Risher RisherMartin Fine Homes

Secretary Mike Cottrell Moore Supply Company

Directors At Large Randy Meek Eastside Lumber & Decking Sandy Weatherford Urban Home Magazine Larry Martin MartinHouse Designs

Austin NARI celebrates its members’ successes and highlights their achievements. In the fall, the Austin NARI chapter holds the Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards to recognize contractors in Central Texas who have demonstrated outstanding work in their projects. Judging is based on problem solving, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation, degree of difficulty and entry presentation. Additionally, the Austin NARI chapter holds an annual Tour of Remodeled Homes. The tour is in open house format allowing you to meet the general contractor and vendors, see the project and gather ideas. This year the tour will be held October 25th and 26th from noon to 6 pm. Visit the Austin NARI chapter website (austinnari.org) for more information.

Jason Crabtree Premier Partners

On behalf of the Austin NARI chapter and the publishers of Symmetry Central Texas and Austin-San Antonio Urban Home magazines, we hope that you enjoy these articles and find them helpful as you enter into your remodeling project.

P.O. Box 9964, Austin, Texas 78766 Office: 512.997.6274, Fax: 512.852.4611

Savana Beckman Schroeder Carpet President | Austin NARI www.austinnari.org

John Gelken Austin Impressions, Inc. Tyson Neal Legend Lighting, Inc.

Past President John Martin Straight and Level Construction, Company, Inc.

Austin NARI

Executive Director | Linda Olivier Mobile: 512.300.5254, linda@austinnari.org Executive Assistant | Rick Rudolphi rick@austinnari.org

See more of our award winning remodels at Avenue Bdev.com Avenue B Development, LLC • 512.638.1514

6

Symmetr y Spring-Summer 2014

Design

Build

Remodel

Publisher Symmetry Central Texas is published by Louis Doucette Big City Media Group, LLC. Advertising rates available upon request. All rights Editors reserved by copyright. No part of this Trisha Doucette and Leslie Woods publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written Editorial Advisory Board consent of publisher. Every effort is made Mike Cottrell – Moore Supply Company / to assure accuracy of the information The Kitchen & Bath Showplace contained herein. However, the publisher Dawn Hearn – Dawn Hearn Interior Design cannot guarantee such accuracy.

Advertising is subject to errors, omissions Strategic Media Placement and/or other changes without notice.

Diane Purcell Mention of any product or service does not Contributing Writers constitute endorsement from Symmetry Central Texas. The information obtained Jackie Benton in this publication is deemed reliable from Michelle Burgess third party sources, but not guaranteed.

Julie Catalano Symmetry Central Texas does not act Mauri Elbel as an agent for any of the advertisers in this publication. It is recommended that Advertising Sales you choose a qualified remodeling, home Sandy Weatherford – Austin furnishings, or home improvement firm Gerry Lair – San Antonio based on your own selection criteria.

Symmetry Central Texas does not act as Design and Production an agent for any of the realtors or builders Jennifer Nelson – Full Nelson Productions in this publication. It is recommended that Printing and Direct Mail you choose a qualified realtor to assist you in your new home purchase.

SmithPrint Symmetry Central Texas will not Phone knowingly accept advertising for real Austin: 512.385.4663 estate that is a violation of the Fair San Antonio: 210.410.0014 Housing Act. All real estate advertising in Symmetry Central Texas is subject to Fax the Fair Housing Act that states, “We 830.981.8887 are pledged to the letter and spirit of Business Office U.S. Policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the 4714 Cambridge / Sugar Land, Texas 77479 nation. We encourage and support an Sales Office affirmative advertising and marketing 10036 Saxet Drive / Boerne, Texas 78006 program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, Email religion, sex, handicap, familial status or louisd@bigcitymagazines.com national origin.” © Copyright 2014 by Symmetry Central Texas. All Rights Reserved.

Spring-Summer 2014

Dawn F. Hearn, ASID, NARI, CAPS Texas Registered Interior Designer #9501

New Construction Remodeling Space Planning Consultation Furnishings Accessories

www.dawnhearn.com 512.930.0250

7

8

Symmetr y

12

32

22

36

Symmetry Central Texas / Spring-Summer, 2014 f e at u r e

Labor of Love

Transforming a 1930s bungalow into a modern day dream

12

10 11

Open Season Baths

European Design in Texas Bathrooms Outdoor

Outdoor Showers

Rinse off and rejuvenate in your own backyard products

Indoor/Outdoor

Buyer Beware

Cut-rate bargain materials can come at hight cost

And the winners are...

NARI CotY Award Winners

trends

Kitchens

perspectives

22 28 36 42

20

Simplicity Makes a Comeback in AppHappy Smart Homes

32

Realistic Budgets

Stay within budget with these simple tips remodeler’s resource guide

44

Austin NARI Members

Spring-Summer 2014

A DESIGN AND BUILD FIRM We bring forth the best design, craftsmanship and overall experience for your home renovation.

Integrity Trust Peace of Mind CALL TODAY 512.215.2120 www.austinimpressions.com

Voted Best Source for carpet and hardwood

Stark J.D. Staron emma gardner design Fabrica & More

schroedercarpet.com ŠTrent Lee Photography

9

10

Symmetr y

Buyer Beware Cut-rate bargain materials can come at high cost

By Jackie Benton

“Caveat emptor!” was the cautionary Latin phrase that alerted Roman citizens to beware and think twice before making that impulsive purchase. But even though the times may have changed, human nature never will. The desire to cut a better bargain is an essential human characteristic, and always at the heart of buyer’s remorse, when the actual purchased product doesn’t live up to its promise. Purchasing materials for a special remodeling or building project is no exception.

Reputable Central Texas building trade professionals are sadly familiar with the phrase, “It seemed like such a good idea at the time!” when called upon to help clients who find themselves in a jam from deciding to order materials at cut-rate bargain prices from inexperienced or unknowledgeable sources.

There is great value in working with an established and experienced professional, says Tommy Johnson, owner of CR Window Coverings. “Working with window coverings is very specialized. I’ve been in business for 26 years, and while I don’t know everything, I know quite a bit and know what will work and what won’t. I have had customers tell me when they call the Big Box stores, they get a different person every time they call and different answers – and this is because their employees don’t have the training they need, and they can’t answer knowledgeably, which ends up costing the customer when he or she receives misinformation.”

There are also hidden costs for installation that can come with an online materials order, says Curtis Hausmann, Market Sales Manager with BMC Building Materials, as well as issues with returning goods that might be inferior quality or not the right fit for the project. “You get into issues when what you ordered online doesn’t have a

guarantee for the product, so if it’s not what you need, the most they’ll do is offer a replacement, but many times it’s not about getting a replacement for the door – it’s that the homeowner wants to return the door and order a completely different door because it’s just never going to fit. We have hardware experts that are going to take care of any issues or problems. We’re going to have the door installed, and the locks keyed to match the other locks in the home, and if you’re having issues right away or even a year from now, we’ll take care of it. You’re just not going to get that kind of guarantee if you order online.”

Gabe Sutton, co-owner of Harway Supply, Inc., counts his company’s excellent and personable relationship with suppliers and vendors as another plus for his customers versus ordering online. Knowing who to call and having a good working relationship with other companies helps get issues sorted out quickly. “We’re a relatively small operation in a specialized area. Harway Appliances does not have to be a Jack-of-All-Trades. This affords us the luxury of becoming the master of one. Each project usually requires a couple of favors to meet expectation. It is imperative to have great relationships with local trades.

Simple issues or “gotchas” can easily be fixed by a favor from a specialty local retailer. Online retailers do not benefit from partnering with local, construction professionals.

Ensuring that each project goes smoothly and resulting customer testimonials is the lifeblood of smaller, specialty operations.”

There’s also something to be said for seeing the wide array of product selection in person rather than just scanning over products on a website, says Bob Contos, owner of Lights Fantastic. “The advantages we afford the consumer are the breadth of selection and uniqueness of product that just can’t be found on the internet or box store. We give the consumer the opportunity to see the product or a similar product so they can gain a better understanding of what it truly looks like to fit their application.

Lighting is becoming more technical, so it’s not just about how it looks, it’s about how to control the different aspects offered by these new products, from how they dim, how they change color, and even how to control your lighting with your phone,” he says.

The peace of mind that comes with speaking with a sourcing professional, understanding what is being ordered as well as why, and knowing the product will work with its environment and the installation will be handled by experts who guarantee their work are all more than worth any sort of bargain basement discount. As Contos puts it, commitment to making their customers happy is the real reason for his and other local stores’ success over product websites and Big Box stores. “It’s not just a question about the cost. If you want to understand how best to use your product, what are its technical aspects, and how to incorporate it into their overall design scheme, it’s better done with an expert in that field,” says Contos. “There’s a tremendous amount of technical knowledge that goes with these new products and how to use and install them that just doesn’t translate well over the internet. It’s much better to go through a shop like ours, where you can gain understanding, see them for yourself, and how to best use them in your environment.” n

RESOURCES BMC – Building Materials and Construction Services 512.977.7401 – Millwork 512.378.9411 – Lumber www.buildwithbmc.com

CR Window Coverings

512.329.5741 www.craustinwindowcoverings.com

Harway Supply, Inc.

512.491.7600 www.harwaykitchenanddesign.com

Lights Fantastic

512.452.9511 www.lightsfantastic.com

Spring-Summer 2014

11

And the winners are‌ Each year, The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) hosts Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards at both regional and national levels. Awards are presented by NARI Headquarters to NARI members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. Judging is based on problem solving, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation and degree of difficulty. Winners are honored at an Evening of Excellence Reception where National winners are also announced.

The Austin NARI Chapter is proud to present the 2014 CotY Regional Award Winners.

Residential Kitchen Under $40,000

Residential Addition Over $250,000

Residential Kitchen $80,001 to $120,000

RisherMartin Fine Homes

Texas Construction Company

Realty Restoration, with team member Twelve Stones Designs

512.495.9090 www.rishermartin.com

512.451.8050 www.txconstruct.com

Realty Restoration, LLC

512.454.1661 www.realtyrestoration.com

Twelve Stones Designs

512.705.2121 www.twelvestonesdesigns.com

Residential Bath Under $30,000

Residential Bath Over $60,000

RRS Design + Build

CG&S Design-Build

512.745.2768 www.rrsdesignbuild.com

512.444.1580 www.cgsdb.com

Entire House Over $1,000,000 David Wilkes Builder, with team member Alan Heine Painting, Inc. David Wilkes Builders

512.328.9888 www.davidwilkesbuilders.com

Residential Exterior Specialty

Residential Historic Renovation/Restoration

Realty Restoration

Avenue B Development, LLC

Residential Addition $100,000 to $250,000

Commercial Specialty

Vorspan Design Build, LLC

David Wilkes Builders

512.454.1661 www.realtyrestoration.com

512.524.1679 www.vorspandesignbuild.com

512.638.1514 www.avenuebdev.com

512.328.9888 www.davidwilkesbuilders.com

Alan Heine Painting, Inc. www.alanheinepaint.com

12

Symmetr y

Labor of Love Transforming a 1930s bungalow into a modern day dream Front, before

By Mauri Elbel Photography by Johnny Stevens

Spring-Summer 2014

13

Tucked in the eclectic Travis Heights neighborhood, just behind the buzz of the hip shops and eateries lining South Congress Avenue, Barbara Wohlgemuth and her partner, Carrie Stapleton, finally feel at home.

Gathered in what could be considered any chef’s fantasy kitchen, they happily chat about their recent renovation that just garnered the “People’s Choice Award” at the 2013 NARI tour of Remodeled Homes.

Leaning over slate-swirled soapstone counters, a highly-durable, impervious material, balanced with a pearly Carrara marble backsplash, and bright white cabinets featuring maroon blown glass pulls which coordinate perfectly with the signature red knobs on their stainless Wolf® oven, Wohlgemuth delves into the story behind their revamped nearly century-old home - a labor of love backed by 16 years of dreaming.

“I purchased this house when Travis Heights was still affordable and used it as a rental until 2012 when we finally decided to make it into what it is today,” Wohlgemuth says of their 1930s bungalow. “From 1996 until 2012, I dreamed about doing this house.”

The 900-square-foot, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom bungalow had an Arts and Crafts aesthetic and had been added on to at least twice over the years. Wohlgemuth and Stapleton wanted to increase the space of the home, but rather than tear it down and start over, they felt strongly about preserving as much of its historical charm as possible.

14

Symmetr y

“We have always loved this neighborhood, but we don’t like the way people come in and tear down the original homes and build McMansions,” says Wohlgemuth. “We wanted to expand the footprint and have everything open out to the courtyard because we love outdoor spaces, but we tried to keep the old bungalow feel with modern updates and touches. And we really feel like we have done that.”

Working alongside architect Emily Little of Clayton & Little and Jason Crabtree of Premier Partners, the design team collaborated to expand the space to 2,400-square-feet, comprising 2 bedrooms, an office and 2.5 bathrooms.

“Finding builder Jason and Premier Partners at the 2011 NARI Tour was perfect timing for us,” says Stapleton. “We were already working with Emily Little. They did a beautiful job on our dream home.”

The house sits on a through-property,

comprising one-and-a-half lots. Most Travis Heights properties don’t have a garage, but having an entry in the back enabled the design to go up by adding a second story over the garage while maintaining the bungalow’s original feel from the front. The home’s traditional layout was rearranged, but the addition begins just beyond the kitchen with the master suite and hallway featuring a built-in storage area and continues upstairs with the second story that houses an office, guest bedroom and bathroom.

“There are so many projects all over the city and you can always tell what is new, but people can walk in here and not really tell - it just really flows,” says Crabtree of the remodel.

Wohlgemuth wanted to make the home L-shaped, wrapping it around the courtyard, but no matter how many times they tried to draw it out on graph paper, they couldn’t get it right.

Spring-Summer 2014 “We tried and tried to design this ourselves and once I saw Emily’s design, she did it,” says Stapleton. “She did such an amazing job.”

Wohlgemuth is a CPA but her passions have always been in real estate –– she has renovated around 25 homes in her lifetime and Stapleton has renovated about 10. The homeowners admit they are both addicted to “renos,” but they hired professionals for all the design and build work and handled much of the interior selections themselves. While Crabtree and his team were working on the main house, Stapleton actually renovated the two-story town home located in the back of the property which was added in the 1980’s and now used as a rental so she was on-site during much of the project.

Throughout the redesign, a deliberate attempt was made to preserve the home’s original aesthetic while adding modern touches and updates. In the revamped dining

room, where the living room once sat, a combination of wainscoting, white floralpatterned wall paper and a matching branchlike crystal chandelier and two sconces conjure the Arts and Crafts vibe.

Structural elements were changed to create the open feel now experienced throughout the space. For example, the original hip roof had to be raised to accommodate the addition of the wrap-around porch. The increased ceiling height now facilitates better ventilation and provides a subtle contemporary element to the traditional bungalow.

“When you walk in, it just feels so much more up-to-date,” says Crabtree. “That one little change made such an impact.”

In the main living space, a peninsula fireplace framed by copper-hued glass tiles connects the dining, kitchen and family rooms, furthering the open flow between the redefined spaces. Inside, the hands-down favorite element of the remodel is the original

15

16

Symmetr y

longleaf pine floor Stapleton and Wohlgemuth went to great lengths to keep and refurbish.

“They were in bad shape,” says Stapleton.

“I tried taking one plank to scrape out the groove and it was like petrified dirt - you couldn’t do anything with it.”

Still, the two remained adamant about keeping them. While more expensive and labor-intensive in the long run than installing a new wood floor, the result is undeniably their favorite part of the remodel. Wohlgemuth and Stapleton went to House+Earth, a green building material store in Austin, to match the home’s original long leaf pine, as there weren’t enough boards to cover the increased square footage. There, they were directed to matching longleaf pine boards that were being recycled and sold out of a Dallas apartment building where Lee Harvey Oswald once lived and referred to Jeff Hodges of Austin Sand & Finish Hardwood

Flooring who removed, cleaned and sanded the home’s original boards. The boards were placed in an alternating pattern - one original board, one from the Oswald apartment building - which created a unique and rich texturing and variation across the floor.

“That is what I love most about it - the variation,” says Wohlgemuth. “The floors are a showstopper.”

Throughout the house, a great effort was made to maintain original elements wherever possible. Some of the home’s window frames were kept while others were made to match and Crabtree reused bead board in the new cabinets while refinishing portions of the original wood siding.

Today the bungalow’s vibe is coastal and calming. Sherwin-Williams® Repose Gray covers the home’s walls, achieving an almost blue and sometimes green tint depending on the light. A soothing color palette is found

Spring-Summer 2014

throughout - Sherwin-Williams Snow Bound on the trim, Quietude in the master bedroom, Rain Washed in the master bathroom and Respite in the guest bathroom.

But it’s the special touches and unique finds that really speak to the homeowners’ style and captivates the attention of guests.

Those spaces like the eye-catching copperand-cork covered half-bath adjacent to the kitchen; the coffee bar upstairs outfitted with cobalt counters made from recycled Skyy® vodka bottles, and a rainbow’s worth of blown glass knobs found on cabinets throughout the house spanning in colors from translucent green to deep crimson.

The master bath exudes a spa-like feel with a calming mix of subtle greens, raised floating vanities, green glass sink basins surrounded by white speckled quartz and river stone shower floors. A spacious closet extends like a hallway and features a

17

18

Symmetr y

secondary exit near the laundry.

Despite all the interior charms, one of the biggest allures is found outside. A zenlike courtyard wraps the front and sides of the home, creating an extended living area off the living room and master bedroom when the La Cantina rolling doors are opened.

“To me, that’s the best thing about this house - the open feeling,” says Crabtree.

“When it is a beautiful Austin summer day, you can open the doors to the porch and it feels like the house is twice as big as it really is. It honestly feels like you are in a beach house somewhere but you are in downtown Austin.”

The wrap-around porch, constructed from Indonesian hardwood called Red Balau, gives off a southern vibe with overhead pine roofing stained to match. The courtyard is xeriscaped with a combination of pink and white granite and recycled tumbled glass Wohlgemuth and Stapleton did much of it themselves. Custom-made touches by Rafael Huichapa of Huichapa Construction border the property and provide privacy, including a horizontal cedar fence and stucco retaining

walls as well as the wall feature behind the one-of-a-kind fountain from Indonesia, a rare find from Miguel’s Gallery and Garden that drowns out the noise of the surrounding downtown blocks.

The homeowners are obviously content, comfortable and very much at home in their renovated retreat in the heart of downtown Austin.

“I am home here - this really feels like home,” says Wohlgemuth. “It is the feeling I get each time I walk in. I love this house. I love the lot. I love the location, and I love the finish out. Our team did a fabulous job.”

“It just feels so warm and inviting to me - there is nothing I would change about this house,” Stapleton agrees. “We finally feel like we did everything right.” n

RESOURCES Premier Partners

512.215.4797 www.premierpartnershomes.com

a statement “ Make without saying a word.

“

Let one of our window covering experts inspire you to make your own statement.

Our new showroom has a fantastic selection of blinds, solar control window film, automated shades, plantation shutters, custom draperies and much more.

Alustra® Woven Textures® Roller Shades

Visit our showroom LOCATED IN THE SHOPS AT THE GALLERIA

PHONE 512.608.0302 12918 SHOPS PARKWAY, SUITE 700

BEE CAVES, TEXAS 78738

austintatiousblinds.com

512 608 0302

620

FREE ESTIMATE

HILL COUNTRY GALLERIA

HWY 71

2244

&

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE INSTALLATION

HWY 71 SHOPS AT THE GALLERIA

We are located at the intersections of Bee Caves Rd/Hwy 71/Hwy 620 at the Shops at the Galleria (across from the Hill Country Galleria) next door to Faraday’s Kitchen Store.

20

Symmetr y

Simplicity Makes a Comeback in App-Happy Smart Homes

By Jackie Benton

With the age of information upon us, there’s seemingly no end to what our integrated tech devices can do for us. Smart phones and tablet computers keep us connected with emails and news, and yes, even entertain with cute cat videos and Angry Birds. Smart homeowners can now take advantage of a wide array of new gadgets, software and mobile apps to control everything from the thermostat and temperature inside their homes to opening windows and garage doors outside their homes. So, with the connectivity offered by these innovations, tech-savvy homeowners should be sitting pretty, right? Not so fast: just because smart technology exists doesn’t mean homeowners are making efficient use of it. In fact, misunderstanding how to use smart tech can leave app-happy homeowners feeling a little dumb.

Spring-Summer 2014 “What we’re finding is that each technology has its own app, just as each electronic in the Eighties had its own remote control,” says Chris Pearson, president of Service Tech. “The universal remote was the result of having five remotes sitting on the coffee table, and we’ve got the modern version of that, only it’s now five apps on our tablet computer, so we’re jumping from app to app to app, just as we were jumping from remote to remote to remote. Our clients just want simplicity, so the true smart homes have a single app for the entire system, instead of an app for the security camera, one for the video, one for the pool, etc.”

Pearson notes another issue peculiar to Smart Homes is getting the apps and technologies to work together cohesively.

Do-it-yourselfers pose particular problems for Pearson and his crew because new tech systems marketed as easy-to-install, plugand-play unfortunately don’t play well or nicely with other technology systems. “People are their own worst nightmare,” says Pearson.

“Technology is depicted as so easy to use in stores, and then you get it home, and you’re like, ‘What did that guy say? What do I do first?’ People are being bombarded by the media with messages that say, ‘Just download this app’ and it works. But it doesn’t,” Pearson laments.

“Technology is like a double-edged sword — you have all of these technologies and all of these copyrights, with different policies all colliding at the same time as studios and companies try to prevent pirating and introduce even newer technology on the market. What happens is half the stuff that’s on the market, if not more, doesn’t work the way the client expects it to,” Pearson explains. “As a professional deliverer of these technologies, we have become incredibly conservative as we design our systems to guarantee our results. We only use technologies we can prove work. We have a nice share of clients that didn’t want to invest in a partner up front, but came back when they realized their time is valuable, and they needed to stop being their own personal AV guy and look for a professional to do it.”

Integration and streamlining is everything, agrees Tim Branch of Austin Home Theater.

“We are working on a large project right now, using the Crestron Home Control System, where the client will be able to pick up his iPad and open the garage door, turn on the fire pit outside, open his front gate, turn on and control his speakers throughout his

house, change channels on his TV and view his grounds through security cameras — everything will be in one large controlled interface.”

But the price point for these integrated systems can be steep for many, notes Branch, and sometimes people are happy to just use a narrow set of technology systems. “The 20-30 somethings generally don’t fall into the demographic that would have money for one of the big systems. I just wired a house for a guy who will be able to watch his new baby in her crib while she’s sleeping — that’s just a real basic security system. With everything going wifi, you have some options, and not everything needs to be in one package. If you want to install less expensive versions of the technology you want, it might not be integrated through a single app, but all would accessible through your tablet. There are those who will be quite happy controlling their audio and video separately from their heating and air conditioning, with their lights and security on another app, as the price point can be fairly intimidating.”

Branch does warn it is important to read the fine print when agreeing to years-long contracts offered by companies that promise to be all-inclusive. “The big security companies offer their security services bundled together with these other applications such as audio and video.

Typically people don’t think much of a $40 or so monthly bill, and they think they’re getting a bargain having things integrated into the house for a flat fee and a discount installation. But think of it this way: you’ll be paying $40 a month for however long you continue to use that account or those services, so after a year or two it becomes a fairly expensive service as the equipment itself will depreciate.”

The best approach, says Branch, is to think ahead when the building project is underway, and pre-wire, which preps the home being built or remodeled for whatever tech the homeowner might desire.”When I do a new build with a client and my builder wants a turnkey pre-wire put in place, I can provide that so it’s ready for security, audio, video, cameras. We do this during the construction of a home or business, so when you finish all that, it’s ready to accept almost any integration system. There are a lot of systems that don’t require pre-wire application, such as radio frequency based technologies, that use light switches or Z Wave or proprietary wireless systems.”

21

As for home remodels, Pearson says it is possible to update and upgrade a home’s technology, no matter what the age. “Every home can be a Smart Home, absolutely!” says Pearson enthusiastically. “There are so many things we have to do to ‘outsmart the Smart Home’ just to ensure all things work.

That’s the scariest part. On the remodeling side, we have to deal with curve balls, such as lack of wire, or walls you can’t touch for historic reasons, or the impact of the remodel.

The good news is there is technology to compensate for the lack of wires. We have condo units on top of each other, we have people living in close proximity to each other, or you may have a large house that requires two or more access points so you don’t notice an interruption in your service as you move from one side of your home to the other.”

Pearson also suggests that older clients, such as Empty Nesters, are also cautious about integrating new tech in their homes, and with good reason. “Empty Nesters are apt to do the research, and are a little more savvy on what’s out there. The younger crowd just tends to take everything and assume it works and goes from gadget to gadget, only to realize that of the 50 apps they downloaded, they only use four. There are all kinds of technology out there, but we’re careful and conservative about what we offer and we make sure it’s vetted before setting it up for our clients.”

Most important, Pearson says a professional tech installation allows a Smart Home to work at its best, keeping its owners happy. He offers this analogy: “Think of the internet as a multilane highway. I’ve got six lanes of traffic. Now if I take out my lane dividers, from my HOV lanes with my faster traffic to my bike lanes, sooner or later I’m going to have collisions, traffic jams and things will just break down. We need those lane dividers. That’s basically your network, and that is how we differentiate between audio, streaming video, surfing the internet and so forth. The most critical component is the network, and how we distribute wifi is the most important part of the house’s technology. n

RESOURCES Austin Home Theater

512.659.8105 www.austinhometheater.com

Service Tech Audio Visual 512.456.2800 www.servicetechav.com

22

Symmetr y

Open Season

By Julie Catalano They’re sleek, stylish, contemporary, even industrial. They showcase prized collections and keep useful tools at hand. Open shelves are coming out of the cabinet like never before and show no signs of going into hiding.

For many they are the stuff dream kitchens are made of; for others they can verge on a neatnik’s nightmare. In short, open shelves may not be for everybody — but they can be.

Designer: Dawn Hearn Interior Design Builder: Audino Construction, Inc. Photographer: Tre Dunham

Spring-Summer 2014

23

24

Symmetr y

Builder: Austin Impressions, Inc. Photography courtesy of Austin Impressions, Inc.

Austin interior designer Dawn Hearn of Dawn Hearn Interior Design says with the move toward contemporary, the clean look of open shelving is “on the uptick right now as far as trends and popularity.” But she emphasizes that open shelving requires that you know yourself, your lifestyle and what will take priority — form or function. “Either you want to be able to have something handy, or you want to show off something. A gourmet cook needs pots and pans at the ready, while a collector wants a place to showcase art glass, pottery or, in the case of bachelors I’ve known, their shot glass collections.”

John Gehlken, owner of Austin Impressions, a Design and Build firm, observes that “in the last few years, we have seen our customers develop a new interest in open shelving. As opposed to closed cabinets, open shelving offers a more visually artistic and hospitable atmosphere.”

And attention-grabbing. As design accents go, they are hard to beat in the eye-catching department. After all, if something is on display, it must be special in some way. We’re back to form vs. function, says Hearn, who compares it to accent walls (another huge trend of late): “If it’s not a logical thing that you’re accenting, then it’s a distraction.” The same applies to open shelving. “You want it to be in a good spot, be balanced and definitely planned out with the rest of the room, and not just have some weird, randomly placed open shelves.” Because the eye is almost invariably drawn to open shelves, they have to be “attention-grabbing in a good way.”

Gehlken also points out that “numerous challenges need to be factored into the design, such as whether open shelves provide sufficient storage, as open shelves do not provide the same amount of storage found in closed cabinets.” Makes sense, since you

Spring-Summer 2014

wouldn’t be stacking an open shelf with the sheer number of mismatched pans, old Tupperware® and plastic colanders that you can cram into a cabinet.

Decisions, decisions. “Do you want to see your plates and glasses?” asks Hearn. “Or is it going to bother you if the stacks are askew or the glasses aren’t lined up? If yes, then you don’t need to be seeing them.” And neither does anyone else.

Fortunately, open shelves are not an all-ornothing proposition. In fact, both designers feel open shelving is at its best when combined with traditional storage, giving clients the best of both worlds.

“We generally use open shelving selectively, where it is combined with closed cabinetry.

Our Romeria project,” says Gehlken of a home in Austin’s north central Crestview neighborhood, “is a great example of how to integrate both closed and open shelving.”

All of the closed cabinetry was from IKEA,

and the shelving for the project was custom made from IKEA butcher block countertop material. “The no bracketed shelving involved a support system that was built into the wall framing. This offered the appearance of free floating, unsupported shelving.”

Hearn’s client for a Lost Creek home in southwest Austin is a “talented and frequent cook who loves to entertain.” In addition to warm bamboo cabinets, “we ran open shelves across the window to display bar and stemware.” Chefs, she says, are usually “grabbing things from all over the place.” As for materials, “All things are possible if you have the time and money to investigate what you’re going to use open shelving for.” Wood shelving allowed them to install small LED recessed stainless mini puck lights within the shelves for illumination.

More good news from Hearn: “From a budget standpoint, there’s so much less to open shelving. There’s no door, no hinges,

25

26

Symmetr y

no exposed decorative hardware. I would think it’s a more affordable alternative to a traditional cabinet.” Albeit a bit more high maintenance one, adds Gehlken, to keep shelves “well organized and dust free.

In addition, consider the safety of small children who may be able to reach and pull down items.” You also have to be aware of sturdy supports and proper, professional installation as opposed to the DIY approach.

The Romeria project involved “a great deal of design and planning to deliver an open shelving design that provided clean modern lines, and the ability to support heavier items.”

If you’re the nervous type, one way around the weight issue is to use freestanding open shelving units that let you think beyond the wall. “Baker’s racks were really big in the 90s,” says Hearn, “then they kind of fell out of fashion.” Nowadays freestanding units featuring partial open shelving can fill the gap, like the minimalist Williams-Sonoma® Reclaimed Pine and Marble Island made

from reclaimed solid pine and topped with a veined white marble inlay and one lower shelf. Or Sierra Living Concepts’ Kitchen Island Industrial Mango Wood (an ecofriendly tropical hardwood) and Iron Rolling Storage Cabinet with a long open shelf directly below the work surface, perfect for stashing essential tools without having to open and close drawers. Other styles feature diminutive rounded shelves on the corners, much like those little half-moons on either side of the kitchen sink that Hearn remembers from her grandmother’s kitchen, and actually installed in a period home for a client who collects antique pottery. “That’s a very minimal open shelf,” muses Hearn.

Open shelving needn’t be intimidating, she adds. “It can take on a rustic, eclectic, even hippie-type vibe. Some people derive peace from having all of their things on display around them. Some feel better in a more serene, tailored environment. You’ve got to know your personality and know what makes you happy.” n

RESOURCES: Dawn Hearn Interior Design 512.930.0250 www.dawnhearn.com

Audino Construction, Inc.

512.258.6728 www.audinoconstruction.com

Austin Impressions

512.215.2120 www.austinimpressions.com

Spring-Summer 2014

www.UrbanHomeMagazine.com 210.410.0014 - San Antonio 512.385.4663 - Austin

27

28

Symmetr y

Axor® Urquiola by Hansgrohe

European Design in Texas Bathrooms

By Michelle Burgess

Homeowners have always had a lot to think about when planning their dream bathroom remodel, from layout and logistics to color and fixtures. These days, there’s another consideration for them to evaluate, a sort of old-is-new, less-is-more concept applied to plumbing: should we go with traditional, enclosed plumbing, or European-style exposed pipes?

The exposed-pipes option has been gaining in popularity over the past few years, say those in the business, thanks to the flexibility it allows in layout and design.

Suitable for any aesthetic, from supertraditional to ultra-modern, this style allows for a tub to be placed just about anywhere in the room and for easier access if future repairs are needed or remodeling is done.

Leah Winckler is KIVA Kitchen & Bath’s lead plumbing consultant and says that while customers are beginning to appreciate the

European import, many are still leery simply because the look of exposed pipes will take some getting used to.

“Unfortunately, I see several clients not wanting to go out of the proverbial ‘plumbing box’, and this is a very different look,” she says. Still, she adds, there has been a definite upswing in American interest lately, especially in parts of the country with a lot of older homes. “The reason that a lot of Europeans have this setup in their homes is because their homes are too old, and it is too costly

Spring-Summer 2014

29

Axor® Montreux by Hansgrohe

to redo all the plumbing to accommodate a shower-pipe installation. In the northeastern United States, it is becoming popular to do this because it’s a way to retrofit the plumbing without opening up a wall.”

The showroom manager at Moore Supply Company has also seen more customers going with the new style, though he’s quick to point out that it isn’t really new at all.

“We are just circling back to how plumbing used to be and putting a modern flair to it,” Mike Cottrell says. “You have almost endless options as far as hardware and finishes, and it just provides a very interesting option when building a new home or remodeling.

The exposed tub faucets are increasing in popularity, as well as freestanding tubs for master baths.”

Beyond aesthetics, exposed plumbing offers plenty of other advantages. Plumbing professionals cite easier repair access for design and repair as a plus. Also, having a freestanding tub rather than one built into a deck is a great space-saver.

Still, there are important factors to keep in mind when considering implementing exposed pipes into a bathroom design project. Cheryl Smarr is a showroom sales

consultant with Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery with a lot of experience in high-end residential projects. She says that the installation of European-style plumbing can be tricky.

“This is a precise install demanding centerline rough-in for the water supply, drain/trap and shut-off valves,” Smarr explains. “The height of these rough-ins must be correct as well, taking into consideration the height of the homeowners and of the risers. The free-standing tubs require precise drain location if installed in a slab, and with the free-standing faucets for them, the hot/ cold supplies must be correctly located as well.”

All of that precision definitely comes at a price. So, too, do materials, which need to be pleasing to the eye and not just functional.

“There is a large cost differential between the standard PVC p-traps, braided steel hoses and stops, and the decorative bottle traps and sleek supplies and stops,” Smarr continues.

But Winckler is quick to stress that while there are some added costs to European plumbing, others are actually decreased.

She points out that the pipe valves sit on top of the finished wall, making the shower more flexible in terms of positioning. These

are cheaper to install than a valve buried in the wall and easier to access if repairs are necessary.

The size of a bathroom’s available space is generally not really a consideration when it comes to deciding on standard versus European plumbing. More room isn’t needed; in fact, an especially large shower doesn’t lend itself to exposed pipes because everything is located on one wall, and the shower hose isn’t long enough to reach all areas of the enclosure. Beyond that, though, plumbing professionals say that any space could be a good candidate for this look.

“We are seeing more and more buyers, especially in the Austin market, who love its simplicity,” KIVA’s Winckler says. She adds, though, that there are a few things that need to occur before European-style pipes will compete with traditional hidden plumbing.

“I think that this style will become a fairly common installation in the future, so far as maybe seeing some of the bigger box stores carrying a version of it,” she says. “As far as it becoming the standard, I don’t think it will make it that far up the ladder because most of these are a thermostatic installation, which enables you to control temperature with one handle and volume/diverter with the other,

30

Symmetr y

and many people just don’t know how to use these. I believe the simple pressure-balance systems will stay the standard, at least in a guest bathroom, for some time.”

How high this trend will peak with Texas homeowners and remodelers remains to be seen. But for those who go with this novel — at least to most Texans — look, the possibilities for visual impact are many.

“Regardless of whether we’re talking about traditional, transitional or modern, this can fit into any bathroom,” Winckler says. “It brings an edgier look to a home. Whether the design is strictly practical or selected for looks, it offers a truly different look” than most of us are used to. n

RESOURCES Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery 512.445.5140 www.ferguson.com

KIVA Kitchen & Bath/McNairs Appliance Gallery 512.454.4526 www.kivahome.com

Moore Supply Company 512.454.4619 www.bkshowplace.com

Croma Showerhead by Hansgrohe

Radford Collection from Victoria + Albert

32

Symmetr y

Realistic Budgets Stay within budget with these simple tips

By Mauri Elbel Photography courtesy of Parrish & Company

Higher end kitchen with painted maple cabinetry (Woodmont Cabinetry).

Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or revamping your entire home, remodeling costs can soon grow higher than that stack of design ideas you’ve been collecting. While you might have poured hours into fantasizing about your dream-come-true kitchen, bringing the look to life is often accompanied by a less-than-desirable price tag. But before you lose hope, you can achieve a look you love without blowing your budget. Below, experts representing various facets of the remodeling industry weigh in on some common mistakes to avoid and provide some key pieces of advice when it comes to being realistic with your budget.

Spring-Summer 2014 Parrish & Company The number one piece of advice given by remodeling experts across the board?

Prioritize what you want the most.

“When a client comes to us, we have them create a wish list,” says Kelly Parrish Walker.

In her position as vice president of marketing for Parrish & Company, Parrish Walker and her staff offer a wide range of products from cabinetry, appliances and countertops to garage doors and fireplaces, and work with remodelers, builders and homeowners to guide them through the selection process.

“We ask them questions like ‘What are your must haves?’ If it is most important to have high-end appliances, maybe get less expensive cabinetry. You have to balance it out.”

Avoid a remodeling financial disaster by sharing your budget from the start and don’t be afraid to let the professionals guide you toward what will be the proper fit for your budget and lifestyle, says Parrish Walker.

“Be willing to share your budget,” suggests Parrish Walker. “A lot of people don’t want to tell you, but we want to know so we can help you get the most product for what you are willing to spend. We know how to work within budget and we have a wide range of products in every price point.”

When it comes to remodeling, always be prepared for the unexpected. Unanticipated costs can creep up so factoring a little wiggle room into the equation provides a cushion that can keep your budget from topping out.

“With new construction you can control the outcome to some extent, but in a remodel, you never know what you are going to get into,” she says.

Parrish Walker also suggests creating look books which are helpful to convey a client’s tastes and styles. But at the same time, clients need to be realistic and know that the products in the pictures are often priced way above their budget. Many consumers lack previous building and remodeling experience so they might not have a clue how much something is going to cost. For example, an appliance might be advertised at a certain price, but what isn’t included in that number is the shipping and storage costs.

Every remodeling project is different, as is each client’s budget. However, budget proportions often result in a similar breakdown, says Parrish Walker. For example, whether your kitchen remodel budget is $20,000 or $50,000, the cabinetry will be a large portion costing anywhere from one-third

to one-half, she says. Parrish Walker sited a Better Homes and Gardens® article that included a general kitchen remodeling budget guideline, estimating that labor comprises about 20 percent of the overall budget while materials account for 80 percent. The budget breakdown for a kitchen remodel, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), listed cabinetry as the largest expense in a kitchen remodel accounting for about 30 percent. After labor, appliances are the next largest cost, comprising about 15 percent of the budget followed by countertops (10 percent) and flooring (7 percent) and smaller expenses such as lighting, plumbing fixtures, doors and windows, and walls and ceilings (5 percent each).

“But it really all goes back to what that person perceives as the most valuable part of their kitchen remodel,” says Parrish Walker.

Factory Builder Stores Paul Marshall, division president for Austin’s Factory Builder Stores, the familyowned and operated business that provides top-of-the-line appliances, cabinetry and whirlpool tubs, and aims to make building and remodeling fun and stress-free for their clients, agrees prioritizing your needs is key to creating a realistic budget.

“Focus on those projects that are key for your family and lifestyle,” says Marshall.

“For example, if you are a baker or a cook, maybe you want to splurge on a Wolf® oven and then look at a KitchenAid® dishwasher rather than a Thermador®.”

Marshall suggests coming in to see the products first-hand rather than selecting them from an image. Touching, feeling and seeing how a product works is crucial before you buy.

“We take the experience further by enabling customers to try out products in our live vignettes,” he says.

When it comes to making decisions, Marshall suggests deciding which areas are worth spending more on and where it will be acceptable to cut back. For example, the kitchen and bathroom are areas of the home that typically stand out whereas you can often add style to a living area with furnishings and art.

“The kitchen is the heart-beat of the home it’s the new family gathering place and the most common entertaining spot,” says Marshall. “As the most used room in the house, it will yield the greatest return on your investment.”

Marshall says working with a professional can save you money and frustration in

33

the long run because they are familiar with products and know which ones are compatible. Professionals help clue customers in to additional considerations such as lifestyle versus design style –– people who don’t routinely organize probably shouldn’t select glass refrigerators or open cabinets.

“I have had clients order pieces from the internet only to find they are not compatible with their electrical or gas,” he says. “A professional can make sure it all works for your house and your needs so you can get the job done right, the first time.”

Schroeder Carpet Savana Schroeder Beckman of Schroeder Carpet, a full service flooring company that sells and installs carpets, hardwoods and tiles, suggests shopping in an actual store rather than online.

“Houzz and Pinterest are wonderful for dreaming,” says owner Schroeder Beckman.

“Rarely, are prices posted nor are the professional’s fees shown. I feel like the homeowners who bring in pictures from online sources are most disappointed when they start getting real numbers from their remodeler.”

When it comes to picking flooring, a key mistake that is often made is signing a contract with a remodeler or builder without asking about the per square foot allowance.

“A client I had last year came in and picked out three different hardwoods — they were all of excellent quality and as a result they all cost about $8.00 per square foot for material only,” she recalls. “The remodeler allowed $4.00 per square foot for the hardwood. Well, needless to say she was quite upset because her tastes were not in line with the allowance. Eventually, she ended up buying the more expensive wood.

In the meantime, she became aggravated with her builder because he had given her such a small hardwood budget.”

Schroeder Beckman suggests doing a little shopping prior to signing a contract so you can learn what each item going into your remodel budget actually costs.

“It is rare that a homeowner entering into a remodel will like the items that are in a builder budget,” she says. “After all, isn’t that why we remodel - to get rid of the builder-grade products that are in our homes currently?”

The happiest client is one who comes in and knows how much they want to spend because it is easier to allocate their funds appropriately, she says. When it comes to

34

Symmetr y

Entry level kitchen with oak cabinetry (Quality Cabinets).

making decisions about certain elements of a home, Schroeder Beckman says it is smartest to cut back on items that are easily changed.

“For example, your cabinets and flooring are difficult to change out and are expensive,” she says. “Why not cut back on an appliance that is easily swapped out so you can get a floor that will hold up? I have also heard of people buying very expensive plumbing or lighting and cutting back on the flooring.

It doesn’t make sense when you can easily swap a light fixture out in a year or two.”

David Wilkes Builders David Wilkes, owner of David Wilkes Builders’ award-winning construction and renovation company, says clients can stick to their budget by getting a reliable team together from the start.

“I think it is important to get a team working together from early on,” says Wilkes.

“So often we see clients with a set of plans

and a budget in mind and a lot of times end up being way over budget and have to redesign.”

From a contractor’s perspective, much of the costs can be controlled, says Wilkes.

But where the clients can really help when it comes to sticking to a realistic budget is being disciplined in their product selection.

Kitchen, bathrooms and storage are all important parts of a remodel, but Wilkes says you can often save money on finishes by hiring a quality builder who can help you achieve a high-end look with proper installation and execution.

“I do believe if you have a quality contractor you don’t have to go crazy on your finishes,” he says. “Subway tile, if it is put in right, can look great. And while you can spend $50 per foot on glass tile, if someone installs it poorly, it can look awful.”

Selecting a quality design and build team can go a long way and help you stick to a

realistic budget.

“Even if you spend a fortune on fixtures and finishes, a bad design will always be bad,” he said. “A great design with average finishes always looks better. Do something that works for you and your family, have nice finishes, and don’t blow your budget.” n

RESOURCES David Wilkes Builders

512.328.9888 www.davidwilkesbuilders.com

Factory Builder Stores

512.834.1442 www.factorybuilderstores.com

Parrish & Company

210.835.0937 www.parrishandcompany.com

Schroeder Carpet

512.462.1551 www.schroedercarpet.com

Spring-Summer 2014

35

36

Symmetr y

Photography by Coles Haiston

Outdoor Showers Rinse off and rejuvenate in your own backyard

By Mauri Elbel

Contemplating an outdoor shower? When you live in Central Texas, blessed by warm temperatures and sunny skies the majority of the year, it can provide both a practical and pleasing addition to your home’s outdoor living space.

Outdoor showers have been increasing in popularity in the Texas Hill Country, fueled by homeowners’ desires to capitalize on the time spent in the beautiful outdoors.

Spring-Summer 2014 “Weather-wise, outdoor showers are a great thing to have in this climate,” says Mark Evans, CG&S Design-Build’s project designer.

“You can use it nine months out of the year around here, if not more.”

The popularity of outdoor showers follows suit with the general trend of homeowners wanting to create or expand their outdoor living spaces, says Evans. Other backyard design trends that have gained momentum in recent years include screened porches, pools, outdoor kitchens and covered seating areas.

“We are seeing an increasing emphasis on living outdoors,” says Evans. “I think people are becoming more aware of their surroundings. We all get tired of being indoors all the time working in offices so it is great being able to be outdoors as much as you can when you are home.”

In a recent remodel project in Austin’s Rob Roy neighborhood sitting in the heart of West Lake Hills, Evans said an outdoor shower provided both a functional and peaceful showering solution for homeowners who already loved being outside.

“They use it to rinse off the pool water after a swim and the wife also uses it as her regular shower when it is nice outside,” says Evans. “The Austin culture is very outdoorsy - people love to hike and bike and walk the trails, and this is just another extension of being outdoors.”

CG&S Design-Build incorporated an outdoor shower for these clients as part of a larger renovation project in 2011 which included the expansion and reconfiguration of the existing pool deck - taking it from 135 square feet to 190 square feet - as well as a master bathroom remodel.

“We did this outdoor shower around the same time we did their master bathroom,” Evans says. “And while we were interviewing this couple for their master bath remodel, the wife said she would love to be able to shower outdoors.”

Privacy wasn’t an issue on this spacious one-acre property surrounded by beautiful wooded views. However, because the homeowners also planned to use it as their primary shower during temperate weather, a privacy stall was wrapped into the design.

The clients wanted their outdoor shower to remain as open as possible while maintaining privacy for the person showering. Evans kept the design open at the top and bottom to facilitate breezes and sunlight while designing a privacy stall framed by natural redwood posts which blends well with the

37

Photography by Coles Haiston

existing architecture and landscape. The redwood frames copper panels featuring hammered detailing which remain unfinished to allow them to patina and age naturally.

The hand-worked copper panels were custom-designed by local craftsman, artist and architect Britt Medford with Two Hills Studio. The shower fixtures are from the Kohler®/Bancroft collection and durable teak was selected for the shower floor.

“Any other wood wouldn’t have lasted as long,” says Evans. “Other wooden materials

aren’t as water resistant as teak, which is used to build boats. And with teak, you can sand it smooth and it will stay that way so you don’t have to worry about rough edges or splinters.”

CG&S Design-Build designed the outdoor shower to facilitate water through floor slats and into the homeowner’s septic system without overflowing into the landscape. Today, this outdoor shower serves dual purposes for the homeowners - providing homeowners and their guests a place to rinse off after a swim

38

Symmetr y and a place to shower under the sun.

“They love it,” says Evans. “It’s where they choose to shower when it is nice out.”

Even a decade ago, CG&S Design-Build began receiving requests for outdoor showers. The firm had worked on several outdoor projects for a family’s home in the upscale Hill Country subdivision of Lewis Mountain located along the silent backroads off of RM 1826.

They had built a pool but wanted to extend their outdoor living with a grill zone, covered sitting area, additional garage space, a pool bath and an outdoor shower, recalls Stewart Davis, CG&S Design-Build’s design director.

“We have seen a lot of interest in outdoor living in general,” Davis says. “We mainly do renovation work so a lot of homes didn’t plan for outdoor living originally and a lot of the projects we handle are just adding on to their existing space outdoors.”

Located adjacent to the pool bath addition, this outdoor shower was placed along the limestone walls of the freestanding pool house. A small step-down into the shower creates a basin where the water can be collected and then diverted into a drain and directed away from the outdoor seating area.

Exposed timber beams form the roofing system, sheltering the patio area and creating a warm tone that balances the white limestone walls and pavers nicely while providing coverage for the outdoor shower.

“We put the shower under the roof, which is important because you don’t want rain water or storm drainage getting into the septic system which can make your entire system malfunction,” says Davis. “You don’t always have to have a roof over the shower, but it is an issue that needs to be thought about.”

River rock tile creates the shower floor while a basic industrial pull-down galvanized pipe serves as the shower head.

“It is sort of fun and inexpensive, and it really fits that rustic feeling of this home,” says Davis.

For the family, this outside shower addition functions as a convenient way to wash off the pool water and dirt before entering the home and it provides a peaceful, freeing feeling that comes from showering in nature.

“Some people love the feeling of water falling on them outdoors,” says Davis. “And there are plenty of nights and days in Austin when you can do that very comfortably.” n

RESOURCES CG&S Design-Build Photography by Greg Hursley

512.444.1580 www.cgsdb.com

.

The largest direct travertine and limestone supplier to America.

2020 Rutland #B • Austin, TX 78758 512.832.0500 • QDIstone.com

Your Roofing Experts

We Specialize in Storm Damage Insurance Claims!

Hail Damage?

Wind Damage?

Call Today for a Free Evaluation and Estimate

512.914.8093

Experience You Can Trust.

Quality You Can Afford.

www.hchomesolutions.com www.hillcountryroofingaustin.com Free upgrade to Lifetime Shingle

42

Symmetr y

Products

Sherwin-Williams速 Loxon速 XP IR Reflective Coating integrates proven concrete and masonry protection with advanced infrared technology that reflects solar rays back into the atmosphere, resulting in lower exterior surface temperatures, less heat gain, reduced building energy consumption and cooler interior temperatures.

Sherwin-Williams

512.323.5514 www.sherwin-williams.com

Austin Interior Designer, Diana Allison, ASID, draws on over 25 years of experience in creating exceptional spaces for her new publication, Estimating and Costing for Interior Designers. Presenting a logical process for calculating materials and estimating costs of interior products and utilizing step-by-step examples and worksheets, this text explains the math necessary in the interior design field.

Available through Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

Allison & Associates Interiors 512.614.7792 www.allisoninteriors.net

This highly styled craftsman garage door using Clear WRC with inlaid Mahogany butterfly tenons demonstrates design detail and craftsmanship. The door is pre-finished using Sikkens速 Cetol. Cowart Door offers the finest custom garage doors for almost any project design.

Cowart Door Systems 512.459.3467 www.cowartdoor.com

The Sferra Linens Spring Collection is now available at Sonno Domestic Living. Sferra is known for creating the finest luxury linens in the world.

Sonno Domestic Living

512.452.4005 www.sonnodomesticliving.com

Spring-Summer 2014

43

Products

Enjoy the look of rustic elegance that only natural travertine can provide with products such as Antique Gold 18x18, shown on the floor, and Fantastico brick set on the backsplash and walls.

QDI Stone

512.832.0500 www.qdistone.com

Constructed using an innovative mixture of jute fiber and cement, Native Trails’ NativeStone™ sinks weigh approximately 40 percent less than sinks made using standard concrete. NativeStone™ capitalizes on the inherent durability and resilience of jute, a vegetable fiber traditionally used for making rope, twine and heavy duty packaging. When mixed with cement, jute helps to produce an extraordinarily strong material with high tensile strength.

Furthermore, the jute used in each NativeStone™ sink is grown locally, near the artisans’ workshops – which ties in perfectly to Native Trails’ eco-friendly initiative to support local communities. Jute is a renewable resource, as it grows in tropical, wet climates and does not rely on fertilizer. In addition, jute is 100 percent biodegradable and recyclable. The perfect half-sphere of this vessel sink makes it a true stand-out for the bath; a beautiful, contemporary work of art in any of three finishes. Best of all, at 17” x 5”, its bowl is the perfect depth for washing up.

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery 512.445.5140 www.ferguson.com

With the Service Tech User Interface, your iPad becomes a dashboard for all of your home’s subsystems. From your home page, you can see the status for things like what music is playing,, what your last calls were and what the temperature is for your pool. The user always has a view of each activity in the home, allowing for quick and simple adjustments.

Gemma is a stunning, new six light foyer fixture from Hinkley Lighting. This “gem” features rectangular prisms of amber, pearl and clear crystals set in a vintage bronze frame. Visit the Legend Lighting showroom to see more exciting, new lighting introductions from the January 2014 Dallas Market.

Service Tech Audio Visual

Legend Lighting

512.456.2800 www.servicetechav.com

512.251.000 www.legendlighting.com

44

Symmetr y

Remodeler’s Resource Guide KEY

Design

Additions

Kitchens

Windows Siding

Architect/Architectural Design Bartush Design, LLC www.bartushdesign.com 512.415.3787

C. Reese Design, Inc. www.c-reesedesign.com 512.291.5717

Clark Richardson Architects www.clarkrichardson.com 512.636.7653

MartinHouse Designs www.martinhousedesigns.com 512.657.8238

Appliances Factory Builder Stores www.factorybuilderstores.com 512.834.1442

Harway Supply, Inc.

Baths

Roofing

Outdoor Spaces

Whole House

Service Tech Audio Visual www.servicetechav.com 512.456.2800

Banking & Finance Colonial National Mortgage www.cnmcs.com/leaholubec 512.329.1958

Frost National Bank www.frostbank.com 512.473.4806

Building Materials BMC – Building Materials and Construction Services www.buildwithbmc.com 512.977.7401 – Millwork 512.378.9411 – Lumber

Eastside Lumber & Decking

Bowne Electric, Inc.

www.bowneelectric.com 512.454.5325

Flooring ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings www.prosourcefloors.com 512.836.7888

Schroeder Carpet www.schroedercarpet.com 512.462.1551

Foundation Repair & Service Centex House Leveling-Austin, LLC www.welevelit.com 512.444.5438

Douglas Foundation Repair

www.levelmyfoundation.com 512.699.1049

Glass & Masonry Anchor Ventana Glass

www.eastsidelumberaustin.com 512.426.1182

www.ventanaman.com 512.388.9400

Fine Lumber & Plywood, Inc.

Martinez Drywall

www.finelumber.com 512.836.8990

James Hardie Building Materials www.harwaykitchenanddesign.com 512.491.7600

Electrical Supply & Service

www.jameshardie.com 512.527.4326

512.844.0644

Masonry & Glass Systems, Inc. www.masonryglass.com 210.599.6260

McCoy's Building Supply #62 Milestone Distributors

www.milestoneappliance.com 214.217.2801

Parrish & Company www.parrishandcompany.com 512.835.0937

Audio Visual & Security Austin Home Theater

www.austinhometheater.com 512.659.8105

DJB Systems, Inc.

www.djbsystems.com 512.288.5811

www.mccoys.com 512.395.6644

Stock Building Supply www.stocksupply.com 512.444.3172

TimberTown Austin

www.timbertownaustin.com 512.528.8112

TreeHouse, Inc.

www.treehouseonline.com 512.861.0712

Insulation DeRuiter Insulation, Inc.

www.deruiterinsulationinc.com 512.834.0551

Insurance Capitol City Insurance www.ccinsurance.com 512.343.0280

Interior Design

Custom Cabinets & Closets

Allison & Associates Interiors

Calfornia Closets of the Texas Hill Country

www.allisoninteriors.net 512.614.7792

www.californiaclosets.com 512.477.8300

Spring-Summer 2014 Dawn Hearn Interior Design www.dawnhearn.com 512.930.0250

Heather Toolin Designs/ Sonno Domestic Living

www.sonnodomesticliving.com 512.452.4005

Next Level Austin

www.nextlevelaustin.com 512.499.8385

Paint Supplies & Service Alan Heine Painting, Inc.

CG&S Design-Build

www.alanheinepaint.com 512.263.4334

www.cgsdb.com 512.444.1580

Kelly-Moore Paint Co., Inc.

Crystal Sunrooms and Remodeling

Sherwin-Williams

www.crystalsunrooms.com 512.832.4786

www.kellymoore.com 512.331.1255

www.sherwinwilliams.com 512.323.5514

David Wilkes Builders

Twelve Stones Designs

Plumbing Supplies & Service

www.davidwilkesbuilders.com 512.328.9888

www.twelvestonesdesigns.com 512.705.2121

Steve's Plumbing Repair, Inc.

Dingwall Painting & Remodeling

Job Site Services Bin There Dump That

Facebook.com/austinbintheredumpthat 512.253.2725

Kitchen & Bath Fixtures Ferguson Enterprises www.ferguson.com 512.445.5140

KIVA Kitchen & Bath/ McNairs Appliance Gallery www.kivahome.com 512.454.4526

Moore Supply Company www.bkshowplace.com 512.454.4619

Shower Doors of Austin

www.goframelessaustin.com 512.831.3651

www.stevesplumbingrepair.com 512.276.7476

Don Boozer Construction, Inc.Â

Remodelers Ageless Spaces

Legend Lighting, Inc.

www.legendaustin.com 512.251.0000

Lighting Inc.

www.lightinginc.com 512.491.6444

Lights Fantastic

www.lightsfantastic.com 512.452.9511

Maintenance Services ABC Home and Commercial Services www.abchomeandcommercial.com 512.673.9156

www.boozerconstruction.com 512.251.2237

Dylan Martin Homes and Remodeling www.ageless-spaces.com 512.719.4688

Almost Perfect Construction www.apcaustin.com 512.445.4470

Another Great House 512.633.1419

www.dylanmartinhomes.com 512.692.9212

Enabler, LLC

www.enablerllc.com 512.707.0760

Eric Harrison Builders, LLC

Audino Construction, Inc. www.audinoconstruction.com 512.258.6728

Austin Contractor Services www.mascocs.com/austincs 512.928.4002

www.ericharrisonbuilders.com 512.480.8160

Erickson Custom Homes, LLC

www.ericksoncustomhomes.com 512.674.5391

Gradek Contracting and Design, LLC

Austin Creative Builders, Inc. 512.280.2353

Lighting

www.dingwall.com 512.264.7222

Austin Impressions, Inc. www.austinimpressions.com 512.215.2120

Avenue B Development, LLC www.avenuebdev.com 512.638.1514

B. Moore Construction, Inc. www.b-mooreconstruction.com 512.671.3473

www.gradekcontracting.com 512.538.2000

Graf Developments

www.grafdevelopments.com 972.571.6076

Greenbelt Homes, LLC

www.greenbeltconstruction.com 512.740.8592

Handyman Connection www.austin.handymanconnection.com 512.418.0800

Hinckley Construction, Inc.

www.hinckleyconstruction.com 512.228.8306

Casa Remodeling

JNA Construction, LLC

www.casadesignremodeling.com 512.300.2273

www.jnaconstruction.com 512.266.2046

45

46

Symmetr y

Kettler-Austin, Inc.

RRS Design + Build

www.kettleraustin.com 512.474.2300

www.rrsdesignbuild.com 512.745.2768

Kitchens by Bell. LLC

Sky West Builders, LLC

www.kitchensbybell.com 512.905.4111

www.skywestbuilders.com 512.801.1536

Mackenzie Design Build, Inc.

Speciality Builders

www.mackenziedesignbuild.com 512.220.8891

MEK Residential, LLC

www.specialtybuilders.com 512.288.7167

Square Construction 512.913.2302

Stone & Tile Alpha Granite Austin www.alphagraniteaustin.com 512.834.8746 ext.114

Architectural Granite and Marble, Ltd. www.agmgranite.com 512.263.7625

Emser Tile

www.emser.com 512.835.2888

Fox Granite, LLC

www.mekresidential.com 512.848.1596

Straight and Level Construction Company, Inc.

www.foxgraniteaustin.com 512.653.5541

Mr. Handyman NW Austin

www.straightlevel.com 512.577.9297

National Tile & Stone

www.mrhandymantx.com 512.944.4504

Texas Construction Company

New Creations Custom Kitchen and Bath www.newcreationsaustin.com 512.963.9043

On-Call Management

www.txconstruct.com 512.451.8050

New Stone Concepts

Top Notch Renovations

www.newstoneconcepts.com 512.804.1878

www.topnotchrenovations.com 512.538.1962

QDI Stone

Transformations Building and Remodeling www.oncallremodeling.com 512.288.1564

www.transformationsbuilding.com 512.415.7734

Premier Partners

VenCo Construction, Ltd.

www.premierpartnershomes.com 512.215.4797

Vorspan Design Build, LLC

Pride of Austin Custom Homes www.prideofaustinhomes.com 512.879.8473

Pro-Service Painting & Remodeling www.proremodelingaustin.com 512.301.5775

Ranserve, Inc. www.ranserve.com 512.343.9313

Realty Restoration, LLC

www.venco-construction.com 512.990.5331 www.vorspandesignbuild.com 512.524.1679

Watermark & Co. www.watermarkandco.com 512.426.8503

Roofing Austin Gutter King

www.austingutterking.com 512.276.9480

J-Conn Roofing & Repair Service, Inc. www.realtyrestoration.com 512.454.1661

RisherMartin Fine Homes www.rishermartin.com 512.495.9090

Robert Coe Builder

www.coebuilders.com 512.447.3481

www.toomuchstone.com 512.522.1516

www.j-connroofing.com 512.479.0510

Solar Solar Tex www.solartexonline.com 512.371.0399

www.qdistone.com 512.832.0500

Windows & Doors Andersen Windows

www.andersenwindows.com 512.997.8331

BMC - Marvin Windows and Doors Distributor www.marvin.com 512.977.7440

Cowart Door Systems www.cowartdoor.com 512.459.3467

Exclusive Windows & Doors of Austin, LLC www.exclusivewindowsanddoors.com 512.341.9282

Window Coverings & Awnings Austintatious Blinds & Shutters www.austintatiousblinds.com 512.608.0302

CR Window Coverings, Inc.

www.craustinwindowcoverings.com 512.329.5741

Southern Shutters & Blinds

www.southernshuttersusa.com 512.931.0400

Spring-Summer 2014

47

i n t r o D u c i n g

F u L LY

i n t E g r At E D

SHADES from Marvin

The laTesT innovaTion your cusTomers shouldn’T have To live wiThouT

Pine wood, Wheat stain and Satin Taupe hardware with light-filtering Marigold shades.

Marvin ® Shades are the latest Marvin product to come from a long history of innovation; four generations, in fact. You can provide your customers beautiful, made-to-order shades that seamlessly integrate with their windows and doors. With several colors of fabric options available and no need for measurement, shades complement any design. This turnkey solution operates with ease, and lives up to the high standard of quality you’ve come to expect from every Marvin product.

Find the fit for your customer at PROS.MaRvin.cOM/ShadeS ©2014 Marvin Windows and Doors. All rights reserved. ®Registered trademark of Marvin Windows and Doors. 1-800-268-7644.

Find the fit for your customer at PROS.MaRvin.cOM/ShadeS ©2014 Marvin Windows and Doors. All rights reserved. ®Registered trademark of Marvin Windows and Doors. 1-800-268-7644.

See Marvin’s Fabric Color Options at your BMC Window Center.

AUSTIN | 11212 Metric Blvd., Suite 300 | 512-977-7440 | www.BuildWithBMC.com