A Storybook Craftsman Home

I've recently completed a project including interior design and exterior details for my brother's home in Los Gatos, California. This was a total reconstruction with all the proper details befitting  the "Storybook" Craftsman style, typical for his neighborhood.    

https://picasaweb.google.com/112311642280643866724/DropBox?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCJqnkZv0uZznrgE&feat=directlink

Around the Home - Design for Aging in Place

I recently attended a very valuable 2-day class on Design for Aging in Place Specialist by the National Assoc. of Home Builders. I learned more of what I already strongly believe in, accessibility in and around the home, especially with kitchen and baths. This includes universal design (for all ages); preliminary planning for those who want to "future-proof" their home and also make it "visit-able"; and those with immediate special needs and requirements. By including universal design in the home it makes it more marketable for re-sale, and gives it more value. It also prolongs the "sell by" date, allowing the owner to stay put.

Tracy M. Corriveau, CGP

Interior Designer

Kitchen and Bath Specialist

360-860-1052

www.tcdesignoptions.com

Elegant & Timeless Tile

Stone, marble, glass, porcelain tiles; all are available in the most amazing patterns and colors for the home, as never offered before. Try using just a small amount for an accent piece on the wall; in your entry, kitchen back splash, bathroom, and Voila, instant upgrade!  I found this beauty when I was at the Kitchen and Bath Convention recently, its a combination of marble, limestone and glass. I can imagine this on a countertop on a kitchen island, or on a dining table. Or framed on the wall in a front entry, what a way to wow your guests!  Elegant and timeless.    http://artistictile.com/Collections/?nextState=DisplayProduct&place=1000000000000266&product=1000000000000767   

"All in One" Kitchen Sink

Have you ever wished that your kitchen sink could be more functional, and be it's own prep zone?  I saw this amazing sink at a major Kitchen & Bath convention just recently, that outperforms anything I've seen. Because the drain & pipe is at the side, it allows extra storage in your lower cabinet. The multi-tier idea allows a removable cutting board and a colander, perfect for cutting and washing fruits and veggies. A silverware/cutlery strainer is located at the drain. The 48" length model is generous, it also comes in a couple of smaller sizes.     
Multi-Function Designer Kitchen Sink

Around the Home - Sense and Water $avings

 Did you know that of  the Earth's surface, water makes up about 70%, and yet only 3%  is fresh water? A precious and very small amount on the grand scale.

 

By changing out one faucet in your home,

with a low-flow aerator at 1.5 gallons per minute,

this is a 45% savings and 14,700 gallons per year,  over a traditional one with 2.75 gpm.

 

A toilet change is even more substantial;  one with a 1.28 gallons per flush, can save up to 20% and 16,500 gallons per year over a traditional one with 3.5 gpf.  

Dual-flush toilets are the winners, coming in at around 50% in water savings.  However, for the little boys (and big boys) bathroom you might want to consider this latest product:  a "waterless" urinal. It functions with  vegetable oil, has no odor, very clean and low maintenance! 

 

It's the small changes that we can make starting in our homes, that ultimately contributes to the good  for us all.

 

 

Tracy Corriveau, CGP

Certified Green Professional

Interior Designer

360-860-1052 

Hand Painted Tiles

How about introducing a little custom artwork to spruce up your kitchen or bathroom?  Artist Sandy Maddox of Suquamish, is a tile painter extraordinaire.

 

Everything is custom designed to fit your required needs. Be it a backsplash, or countertop inset, shower wall,  she has painted sinks and toilet tank covers. I've designed coffee and end tables featuring her tiles as insets,  tile trivets with wood frames, and even painted switchplate covers, for gifts.  Her painted tiles are truly unique and beautiful!  Please visit her website:   http://sandra-maddox.artistwebsites.com

 

Tracy M. Corriveau, CGP

Design Options - Interior Design

360-860-1052

Concrete Counter Tops

December 20, 2010

 

For the ultimate custom look in counter tops, consider the fantastic artistry and designs made possible with concrete, and Artisan, Laurie Smith.  Color and texture spoken here!  Acid stains, inlays made from wood, geodes, shells, you name it, practically anything is possible. Laurie Smith, of Advanced Concrete Artisans, is a true master of her craft. Next time you are in Poulsbo, stop by Blue Heron Jewelry and 

Kitsap Kitchen & Bath Co. to see her stunning counter top creations.  

 

Visit her website and photo gallery, including floors, fire-place surrounds, fountains and more,     www.advancedconcreteartisans.com

 

Cheers!

 

Tracy

 

Tracy M. Corriveau, CGP

Design Options -Interior Design

360-860-1052

www.tcdesignoptions.com