SEPTEMBER 25, 2018—Home & Design celebrated the launch of its 2019 Idea Book with a reception at Thos. Moser - Handmade American Furniture in Washington, DC. A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the annual Designers’ Choice Awards, published in the Idea Book and at homeanddesign.com. Winners were photographed receiving their awards with Idea Book editor Julie Sanders.
• Beautiful hand painted marble wainscoting
• Pairing sweetheart tub and tile evokes romance
• His and her vanities create harmony
Contact: 240-361-9331 davidaskitchenandtiles.com
• Custom designed high-gloss vanity cabinet with marble top
• Solid brass fixtures from Briz; hardware from Waterworks
• Nero marquina polished 12 x 12 floor; white thassos 12 x 24
Contact: 703-755-0479 bathpluskitchen.com
• Carefree relaxation - Two-person sauna with Bluetooth audio
• Heated floors, towel bar and bidet for comfort
• Rainfall showerhead with bench inside frameless glass
Contact: 301-762-6621 housetohomesolutions.com
• Inset styling with open shelf
• Custom painted finish
• All wood custom built by Crystal Cabinet Works
Contact: 703-208-2208 kleppingerdesign.com
• Soft colored concrete floor tiles in same direction
• Floating high gloss custom lacquered cabinetry
• Large textured format wall tiles
Contact: 301-657-2500 gilmerkitchens.com
• Barrier-free open rain shower and soaking tub
• Large-format, slip-resistant tile in a neutral palette
• Sleek grab bars that look anything but institutional
Contact: 301-657-5000 carnemark.com
• Large master shower with waterfall shower head
• Floor to ceiling mosaic tile for elegance
• Design built for practicality and convenience of use
Contact: 703-204-3444 usacabinetstore.com
• Open-concept “Wet Room” with radiant floor heat
• Free-standing tub and curb-less shower area
• Large-format, porcelain floor tile by Marble Systems
Contact: 703-865-5065 avarchitectsbuild.com
• Soaker tub accommodates full length bathing
• Loads of storage in custom cabinets
• Large shower with convenient bench
Contact: 703-506-0845 bowersdesignbuild.com
• Exposed white rafters create height and airiness
• Transom windows borrow light from adjacent skylit bedroom
• Fabric shaded sconces and grays throughout infuse warmth
Contact: 410-267-6041 hammondwilson.com
• Custom double vanity with unique raised circle doors
• Geometric marble mosaic floor centerpiece
• Matte black and antique brass fixture finishes
Contact: 703-626-6351 moleskydesign.com
• XLIGHT Premium tiles are available in large format sizes
• Can be used on floor and wall applications
• Ultra-thin, light, and easy to install
Contact: 240-290-1120 porcelanosa-usa.com
Timberlake Design/Build’s goal is to ensure that each customer’s vision for their dream home comes true. TDB’s expertise includes complete home remodels, luxury home additions, replacing an existing home with a new one and building a custom home on the client’s site or on TBD’s—using the client’s plans or the company’s. “We partner with homeowners to provide a unique experience,” says Dave Lunden, principal. “We are proud to have led hundreds of clients on their ultimate renovation or home building journey.”
Lunden and his team recognize the complexities and nuances involved in designing and constructing a custom home or renovation. “Our many years of experience allow us to streamline the process,” Lunden explains. “We can’t wait to welcome you to your new home.”
Company details.
Our 55-year-old, family and veteran-owned firm builds in Baltimore, suburban Maryland and Kent County, Delaware.
Describe your process.
We begin by understanding our clients’ needs, confirming project scope, reviewing budget and doing site prep and permitting. After finalizing the plans and materials selection package, construction begins. On completion, we review home warranties, features, systems and maintenance requirements with our clients.
Do you offer interior design services?
Yes; we suggest clients meet with our interior designer to make selections during the permitting period.
Timberlake Design/Build • timberlakedb.com
888 Bestgate Road, Suite 411, Annapolis, MD 21401 • 443-837-3105
Ed Ball Landscape Architecture was hired by clients in the Bahamas to design a functional, private garden on a very small lot. Landscape architect Ed Ball and his team were able to create circulation within the diminutive spaces and make them feel bigger than they actually are.
“We used vertical lines in our design and allow the adjacent properties to expand the views beyond the property lines,” Ball explains. The plant and material palette features ficus, neem trees and coconut palms framing stepping stones and coral stone, textured-concrete steppers. Strips of synthetic lawn and pavers in the driveway, adding an unexpected layer of visual interest.
Company details
Ed Ball Landscape Architecture has been in business for 10 years. Owner and principal Ed Ball executes 10 to 15 projects per year.
Most challenging aspect of your work?
Managing clients’ expectations while navigating the nuances of design and construction. Our great team supports each other while meeting or exceeding clients’ expectations.
What inspired your career path?
I love being outside and helping people. Landscape architecture allows me to do both: I develop spaces for my clients to enjoy year-round, while spending time in nature.
Ed Ball Landscape Architecture • edballlandscapearchitecture.com
1800 Jonathan Way, Apt. 614, Reston, VA 20190 • 703-433-1863
The landscape for this Mediterranean Revival-style home in DC was informed not only by the home’s architecture, but also by its corner-lot placement. Jennifer Horn and her team took advantage of the broad front yard by designing an elliptical area of grass bordered with privet hedging and lush groupings of roses, peonies and hydrangea. Boxwood and groundcover highlight—rather than hide—the architecture. Despite tight angles down the side, the team tucked a lap pool beside a covered porch and outdoor dining area. The hardscape throughout was carefully chosen so the terraces, pathways and stepping stones would read as a seamless extension from the home’s creamy stucco façade.
What is your philosophy?
Michelangelo said every block of stone has a statue inside it, and I feel the same way about landscapes. The most beautiful gardens feel inevitable, as if they were waiting to be uncovered.
Describe your process.
The right design is usually just there in my mind. But the process is borne from the land—we focus on topography.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
No matter how big a property is, there’s always a budget, and we have to work within it.
Jennifer Horn Landscape Architecture • JenniferGHorn.com
2221 S. Clark Street, Arlington, VA 22202 • 202-573-7581
This project involved the design and construction of an infinity-edge pool, spa and outdoor pool house with wood-burning fireplace, bar and kitchen.
“We linked elements via the home’s architecture while adding character through materials and finishes,” says principal Charles Owen, whose design connects the landscape and house and creates a backyard oasis.
The main structure boasts a slate roof, board-and-batten wood paneling and stone accents. The pool terrace is travertine, and a custom-steel water wheel was fabricated for the koi pond. Deciduous trees, flowering shrubs and perennials provide seasonal interest while blocking pedestrian views.
Company details?
Our expertise includes site design and planning, horticulture, hardscape, lighting, water works and pavilion design. We study plant species to bring diversity to our work.
What is your philosophy?
Our projects reflect the clients’ aesthetic vision and complement their homes’ architecture. Our portfolio features ranges from small-scale projects to complex installations.
Describe your process.
We meet clients’ functional needs while applying their personal aesthetic to each design. We work efficiently yet prudently to bring about the most effective possible product.
Fine Landscapes, Ltd. • finelandscapes.com
21558 Stonetree Court, Sterling, VA 20166 • 703-421-7441
A couple desperately seeking a brighter, more functional kitchen tapped Dolly Howarth for the redesign. She began by creating a convenient doorway from the kitchen to the pantry, previously accessible only via the dining room. To open up the space, she eliminated a peninsula in favor of an island with room to gather. The refrigerator was relocated to an unused corner that in turn opened wall space for original art. Aging cupboards were replaced with soft white cabinetry, teamed with marble backsplash tile and honed Taj Mahal granite countertops. Professional appliances were a must for this “true, working kitchen with personal charm that exceeds the needs and wishes of this family,” Howarth says.
What is your philosophy?
Function first. Everything can be enhanced by good design. Less is more. All spaces in a home should be well-used and meaningful. Design opportunities should be taken. No copying.
Describe your process.
Timely communication is key. A phone chat and an extensive in-home consultation kick off the process, homing in on personalities, priorities, preferences and budget guidelines. My creative/conceptual work, analysis, planning, research, scouting and a design proposal follow. Then the fun begins.
Company Details
Howarth has been in business for 15 years. To her delight, she often hears from former clients who have new projects in mind and want to work with Howarth again.
Howarth Designs LLC • howarthdesigns.com
Arlington, VA • 703-671-8448
“A master suite should be nothing short of dreamy,” says Dennese Guadaloupe Rojas, principal of Interiors by Design.
In creating this tranquil, relaxing master bedroom, the designer looked for ways to add a touch of glam. She embellished the ceiling with reflective paint and enhanced the wall behind the bedstead with a sparkly blue hue containing bits of mica. The room’s cool, natural color palette complements a carefully curated selection of plush fabrics; Rojas layered pops of color atop this neutral base.
“I love mixing materials, from silk and crystal to metal and wood,” she explains. “And because this suite is very large, I tried to anchor it with the sense of warmth the materials give.”
What is your philosophy?
My design studio marries clients’ needs and desires with professional talent and experience. The relationship between client and designer is paramount.
What inspired your career path?
I have always loved how a well-designed space feels. Growing up in the islands, color was in the forefront of my every day. I feel that when you follow your passion, your soul sings a happy song!
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
Creating my clients’ vision while ensuring it is what they envision as well.
Interiors By Design, LLC • interiorsbydesignmd.com
12501 Prosperity Drive, Suite 460, Silver Spring, MD 20904 • 301-933-7723
This guest bedroom was a dream come true. The perfect mix of decisive client, reasonable deadline and agreeable budget made its success inevitable. The goal was a peaceful, gender-neutral bedroom, luxuriously appointed, comfortable enough for a range of guests. We selected the bold, blue wall color first, adding furnishings, textiles and accessories. The headboard on the king-sized bed was upholstered in an outdoor fabric for easy maintenance. We created contrast using a fairly neutral palette for the bedding, drapes and upholstery while featuring large prints in small doses on accent pillows.
Joanne Rodríguez Interior Design • joannerodriguezinteriordesign.com
Rockville, MD 20850 • 301-943-8947
Lena Kroupnik was tasked with creating an elegant, sophisticated and livable abode for a growing family in Potomac, Maryland. She and her team began the design process by spending time getting to know their clients, in order to understand their lifestyle and tastes; they also carefully studied the home’s beautiful architecture. “We worked to create a flow within the interiors that would work for a busy family.” Kroupnik explains.
The designed spaces create a seamless bridge between traditional and modern aesthetics; Kroupnik enhanced architectural elements within the home by pairing them with exceptional furnishings, lighting and art. The end result is a space the entire family can enjoy.
What is your philosophy?
I believe the design of a space impacts mood and feelings. My philosophy is very much rooted in harmony and balance principles.
Describe your process.
We focus on building a relationship of trust with our clients. Our function is to create, suggest and guide clients through the process.
What inspired your career path?
I received a master’s degree in engineer electro-physics, but my inner artist was drawn to design. I earned a second degree in interior design and launched a new career. I am now a NCIDQ-licensed interior designer with almost two decades of experience.
Lena Kroupnik Interiors • lenakroupnikinteriors.com
Rockville, MD 20852 • 240-505-6783
When designing the interiors of a unit in 2501 M Street in Georgetown, Arlene Critzos and Cathy Belkov of Interior Concepts, Inc., considered the personalities of both community and homeowner. They based the interiors on washed-gray, hardwood floors, crisp, white walls and architectural details such as dark-walnut cabinetry and floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
Large-scale, bespoke art and clean-lined, neutral upholstery became a foundation for textural details including a charcoal-and-chalk goatskin credenza in the dining room and a sculptural chair in buff suede and forged iron. The furnishings, arranged around views of 25th Street Park, create intimate areas within an open floor plan. A glass-walled niche at one end of the room creates a focal point, with an illuminated urn supported on a concrete pedestal.
What is your philosophy?
Listen to your client and give them what they want, not what you want. Eclecticism eliminates a “decorated” look. We collaborate with clients to create homes that are havens for them.
Describe your past experiences.
Arlene’s European studies, travels and decorative-arts degrees coupled with Cathy’s background in fine arts and art history result in a broad spectrum of designs.
Company details.
Interior Concepts, Inc., is an award-winning firm with 50 employees, a 50,000-square-foot warehouse, a delivery service and projects ranging from family homes and beach and mountain retreats to large flats and estates.
Interior Concepts, Inc. • interiorconceptsinc.com
2560 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD 21401 • 410-224-7366
Homeowners wanted to reclaim their library, which had become a receptacle space. With dark-green walls and a slate floor that absorbed light, the objective was to lighten and warm the room. The built-ins and mantel - previously in a dark faux-wood finish - were painted the same light color as the wall which visually enlarged the space. In lieu of removing the dark slate floor, a light-colored textured broadloom was selected.
Four cozy cotton velvet chairs from Kravet replaced the traditional sofa and loveseat. Cowtan & Tout window treatments complement the upholstery. A custom designed coffee table also serves as an ottoman and the custom designed fireplace screen was inspired by a parking garage gate.
What is your philosophy?
Homes should provide shelter, as well as joy and quality of life. When clients walk through the door at the end of a long day, their home should bring a smile.
What inspired your career path?
My mother has great taste and style. Her dream was to be an interior decorator—but there were no opportunities then for people of color. I feel fortunate that my career gives me joy and makes my mom proud.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
It’s a challenge to get clients to let go of preconceived concepts about design. Trust is key to any project’s success.
Iantha Carley Interiors • ianthainteriors.com
9514 Biltmore Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20901 • 202-285-2374
TOBE DesignGroup is an award-winning interior-architecture studio. With 20 years’ experience, principal Todd Howard Ezrin has a trusted reputation for creating unique, personalized spaces.
“We plan, coordinate and manage every aspect of a project, from space planning and lighting design to the smallest of details,” Ezrin says. “Interior furnishings are selected from a curated list of artisans and manufacturers who use only the finest materials.”
TOBE DesignGroup’s process begins with thoughtful analysis of lifestyle and budget. Along with expert guidance, this ensures the client’s vision is achieved on time and on budget. Ezrin believes in giving back to his community and extends this philosophy to creative solutions that enhance his clients’ lives.
What is your philosophy?
Interior design is a constant exploration of the world and search for inspiration. We aspire to create new and beautiful spaces while making a difference in people’s lives.
What inspired your career path?
My interest in design started early, though I pursued a degree in business management before turning back to my first love. I eventually obtained a second degree in interior design.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
Explaining to clients that design is more intricate than what they see on HGTV!
TOBE DesignGroup, LLC • tobedesigngroup.com
4948 Saint Elmo Avenue, Suite 301, Bethesda, MD 20814 • 301-656-6600
Clients with a passion for preservation asked Barbara Hawthorn to design the interiors of their modern home with sustainability in mind. She utilized passive solar energy, recycled materials and energy-efficient appliances and lighting systems. A cheerful and welcoming palette reflects the outdoors, while fabrics are made with recycled materials or natural fibers. The maple flooring was sustainably harvested. Automated window coverings provide privacy, light control and UV protection. “The client was thrilled with the home’s energy efficiency,” says Hawthorn. “It’s a comfortable, functional space both for children and entertaining—with the bonus of breathtaking views of wooded hills and streams.”
What is your philosophy?
A designer needs to be able to reflect the client’s personal style and functional needs. Good communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are needed to make the process run as smoothly as possible. You can achieve a “wow” factor and still make a space functional and easy to maintain.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
To be prepared for the unexpected and able to quickly address problems with diligence and creativity.
What inspired your career path?
Travel, education, and working in the arts.
Barbara Hawthorn Interiors, Ltd. • barbarahawthorninteriors.com
1950 Valley Wood Road, McLean, VA 22101 • 703-241-5588
Our clients asked us to turn their typical galley kitchen into something that, even if small, felt special and unique. We wanted to create a somewhat Belgian feel, that was streamlined, beautiful, and made the kitchen feel and appear larger. We removed all upper cabinets, replacing storage with deep drawer base cabinets, and a hutch-style pantry cabinet at the end of the cabinet run. We enlarged the window above the sink with a large, double-casement style. The focal point is the fantastic Calacatta Vagli marble backsplash. Finally, we created a large corner banquette, where the family can enjoy meals, surrounded by the abundance of natural light, yet feel “tucked in.” The clients were thrilled with the results!
Philosophy:
We create spaces with soul. Clients often say they like that my work doesn’t look overly “decorated.” That’s a great compliment!
Describe your process:
Initial conversations with potential clients are critical—a designer/client relationship needs to feel right for both parties. Our process runs best when clients trust us, and trust the process.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
Maintaining momentum. Whether it be indecisiveness, vendor issues or construction delays—anything that inhibits the project’s flow can zap its energy.
Alison Giese Interiors • alisongieseinteriors.com
9405 Wallingford Drive, Burke, VA 22015 • 703-239-3302
Sarah Armstrong of Studio 360 was asked to help repeat clients looking to downsize from their large McLean, Virginia, home. Eventually, the couple chose a small rambler in Vienna, which Studio 360 transformed into a single-level, open-plan space that would allow the couple to comfortably age in place. Features include a low-maintenance outdoor-living area; a spacious mudroom and pantry off the garage; a dumbwaiter to the basement; a dining room large enough for family gatherings; an updated façade for improved curb appeal; and universal design components throughout.
What is your philosophy?
I create spaces that fit within and improve upon their current context. Whether modern or traditional, I look for ways to capture light, create purposeful views and maintain appropriate scale.
Describe your process.
I enjoy interacting with clients during the entire design process. After asking questions and listening intently, I offer options through sketches, 3D renderings, and sample images.
Company details.
I lead a talented team of architects, consultants, designers and 3D software specialists who all love what we do.
Studio 360 LLC • studio360architect.com
12587 Fair Lakes Circle, Suite 406, Fairfax VA 22033 • 703-350-5562
