When remodeling or building, we often hear how prospective clients might want to incorporate “green” methods into their projects. They typically cite items like solar panels, low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) materials, ground-source heat, ICF foundations, on-demand water heaters and more. Many of these can be very pricey options, with very long payoffs. We have noticed […]
construction
Posted inHome
A Cozy Craftsman Bungalow with All the Modern Conveniences
High school sweethearts Mark and Gail Westin enjoy the views of both the snow-capped Olympics and the waters of Hood Canal from the oversized windows of their forever home. Having recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary, they describe the contentment they feel in the design and setting of their single-story, “age-in-place,” contemporary Craftsman-style house. “We […]
Posted inHome
Tile Basics — Selecting the Right Tile for You and Your Project
Tile, in all its many forms and installation options, is a great way to put your personal stamp on a residential project. To ensure your tile installation is done properly and provides the aesthetic return on investment you are looking for, it important to understand the basics of this beautiful, versatile material. Know how a […]
Posted inAround West Sound
A Kitchen That Works — Finding the ‘Sweet Spot’ Between Cost and Value
In our second video in the series featuring West Sound’s home and design professionals, WestSound Magazine takes a look at A Kitchen That Works, LLC. We met with the two people behind the company, Molly McCabe and her husband, Clive Pardy, to find out what makes A Kitchen That Works unique. We also chat with […]
Posted inHome
Designing a Kitchen Island — A Kitchen Oasis… without the Palm Trees
Do you have kitchen island envy? You are not alone! The majority of homeowners who have recently or are currently contemplating a kitchen project have or would like to incorporate an island in their project. What makes a kitchen island alluring? There are many reasons. One is that it’s a place to gather family and […]
Posted inAt Home
How to Find a Quality Contractor in a Strong Market
We are fortunate to have been in a strong building economy for the last year, and it appears that it will continue for some time. The downside for consumers is the availability of quality contractors and tradespeople. The economic downturn wreaked havoc on many small local trades and contractors, forcing many out of business or […]
Posted inHome
Designing a Forever Home
The arrival of an AARP invitation in the mail can be a trigger that sends a person off like the proverbial dog looking for its forever home. It may come as a shock —”What?! I’m nowhere near old enough for retirement!” — but that one little invitation turns the idea of aging into a personal […]
Posted inHome
A Home Full of Light and Life
Stepping into the foyer of Brian and Holly Jacobsen’s home and looking into the great room, one is struck by the amazing light flooding through the massive expanse of windows that face the water. White millwork and a well-chosen monochromatic color scheme of soft grays and blues offer a sense of cleanliness, peacefulness and serenity. […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Neighborhood Raises $92,000 to Improve its Park
When the city of Bremerton parks department decided it was time to upgrade the old Manette neighborhood park, it went to the Manette Neighborhood Coalition and asked for help. The city wanted to hear from the neighborhood about what to include in the new design. City staff told the coalition that if the neighborhood could […]