Wood fences are a simple, beautiful and practical part of our home.  From a decorative front yard picket fence to a fence to hold in a big dog fences come in many styles and serve many purposes. Wood fences can be constructed many ways and of many materials.  These decisions early on determine if a […]

Have you ever noticed that later in the day, its often much cooler outside of the house than it is inside? During this time of day, many homeowners deal with this problem by turning on their costly air-conditioning units, which are a huge drain on their power bill. The good news is that this problem can be […]

Once you and your architect have gone through the Building department and are ready to break ground on your dream home you may wonder if you need an interior designer. Interior designers serve many purposes. They educate the client, help the home owner make informed decisions, and act as a facilitator between the homeowner and […]

Solar tubes or skylights are a great way to bring natural light into your home. Solar tubes are easier to install than traditional skylights and offer similar advantages. Solar tubes typically take up less space and offer more options in their installation. An installed skylight can cost from $600 or $3000 depending on the condition […]

Natural stone is a great option for counter tops in kitchen, bathrooms or fireplaces. Granite and Marble are natural products which are composed of various minerals. They are formed under metamorphic pressure giving each martial its unique and beautiful color and veining characteristics. Granites have been formed over millions of years and marble is more […]

Ernest Batchelder was a local tile manufacturer in the San Gabriel Valley. His tiles where used extensively in Craftsman homes that accentuated the Arts and Crafts Movement of the early 20th century. Earnest Batchelder had a studio on Arroyo Blvd. in Pasadena before moving to Los Angeles as his business grew. He featured nature scenes […]

The Pasadena area is a treasure trove of numerous fine Craftsman and Bungalow style homes. After you see enough Craftsman homes you begin to appreciate and perhaps fall in love with the simplicity, efficiency and the details of the Arts and Crafts movement. Craftsman architecture was developing in the United States at the turn of […]

Decks are great place to enjoy the outdoors. Redwood decks are gorgeous when first installed but the elements and time take their toll. Deck owners are always painting and repairing their decks. Most decks have a couple boards that everyone knows to stay away from because they are loose, rotted or just plain dangerous. Decks […]