Custom Home articles from September 2003

Custom Home archives from September 2003

Buyer profiling.(Editor's Page)(Editorial)
September 1, 2003... Are any of these items near the top of your clients' wish lists? A designer kitchen, even if they'll only use the microwave; a media room where they can kick back in plush theater seats and watch the latest "Terminator" in private; a wine...

A question of proportion: are you building the houses you really want to build?(On Your Mind)(Editorial)
September 1, 2003... The editors of this magazine meet a lot of custom builders, and we have long been impressed by how much they seem to enjoy their work. But then again, why shouldn't they? Shelter answers a fundamental human need, and custom builders provide...

Collective wisdom: strengthen your commitment to service.(Customer Service)
September 1, 2003... Ever hear yourself say, "I wish I'd known then what I know now"? Over the last 20 years the home building industry has identified many operational elements that lead to customer satisfaction. Much of this wisdom has been gained through trial...

Tough spot: when good clients have bad sites.(Case Study)
September 1, 2003... Scenario: Mr. and Mrs. Byer seemed like very good prospects. They already owned a lot, and they had selected the plan for their dream home. They had good credit and sufficient assets to build the home, and were anxious to get started. They met...

Cost control: is a purchase order system right for you?(Strictly Business)
September 1, 2003... Do you want to prevent unauthorized purchases of materials? Would you like your variance between estimate and actual costs to be less than 1 percent? Are you willing to invest time up front, before you start construction, to commit costs to...

Slam dunk: launch your game plan with one simple question.(The Top Line)
September 1, 2003... Though the 2003 NBA season is complete, I am still relishing the world championship victory of my home town San Antonio Spurs. One of the team's strengths is that it has the best man in professional basketball today: two-time MVP winner Tim...

Built-in beds.(Custom Touches)
September 1, 2003... A built-in bed takes optimum advantage of a frequently used piece of furniture by incorporating efficient features like drawers, TV cabinets, lighting, and bookshelves. Such a multi-tasking design fulfills diverse homeowner needs yet also...

Radio wave: satellite programming offers something for everyone.(The Wired House)
September 1, 2003... With CDs and MP3s delivering homeowners' favorite tunes on demand, radio doesn't pop to mind as one of the more enticing features of a whole-house audio system. But thanks to a new crop of transportable satellite radio products, radio may...

Defying convention.(What's New)
September 1, 2003... For those who love the old-fashioned, traditional British look of Aga ranges, but are not comportable with a gas appliance that stays on constantly, Aga now offers a break from convention. The cooker manufacturing has taken its classic design...

Sun roof.(What's New)
September 1, 2003... A solar panel that blends into a home's roof almost completely and does not alter the roof's profile is now available from Uni-Solar. The SmartRoof solar shingle system uses thin-film photovoltaic technology to generate 50 percent to 90 percent...

Mark your calendar: important upcoming events.(Events)
September 1, 2003... Sept. 18-20, Restoration & Renovation Conference. Navy Pier, Chicago. For information call 800.982.6247 or visit www.restorationandrenovation.com. * Oct. 15-18, Energy & Environmental Building Association (EEBA) 2003: Excellence in Building...

2003 Custom Home Design Awards.
September 1, 2003... CUSTOM HOME proudly presents the winner of the 2003 Custom Home Design Awards. Thirteen inspiring projects rose to the top of a record-breaking field of of 375 entries to capture this year's honors. The 10 Merit Award winners, two Grand Award...

Jennifer Pippin Pippin Home Designs, Mooresville, N.C.(Product Report from the Field)
September 1, 2003... Custom home designer Jenny Pippin frequently works with clients who need more refrigerator storage in their kitchens and in rooms that are far from the kitchen. Rather than gobbling up space with an additional full-size refrigerator, Pippin...

Guy Semmes Hopkins & Porter Construction, Potamac, MD.(Product Report from the Field)
September 1, 2003... For kitchen islands with sinks and garbage disposals, Guy Semmes used to have to locate the disposal switches near the floor inside the sink base cabinet, making them difficult to reach and use. But for one project, an architect on staff found...

Standing stones.(Fine Finishes)
September 1, 2003... Stone worker Chris Curtis specializes in carving large stone sculptures for indoor or outdoor placement, as well as fountains featuring uniquely shaped stones. he frequently crafts interior wall fountains, some only 1 1/2 inches thick--what he...

Architectural iron.(Fine Finishes)
September 1, 2003... Jeff Schiff of Schiff Architectural Detail starts every custom project with n quiz to determine the clients' needs and what style they are interested in. "Frequently we have to tell people when to stop, what they can or cannot have because of...

Vintage original.(Fine Finishes)
September 1, 2003... Bathroom vanities from COCOPA are designed inn a rustic, whimsical style by designer Deborah Cota with her husband, master blacksmith Peter Anthony, and her bases. Working with vintage woods, says Deborah Cota, gives each of her pieces a unique...

Pod people.(Outdoor Lighting)
September 1, 2003... Made of injection-molded polycarbonate with prismatic and overmolded walls, the Pod Lens hanging, floor, and stick fixture lights resist humidity, water, and snow. The lights are available in a wide variety of sizes and colors that resist UV...

Industrial illumination.(Outdoor Lighting)
September 1, 2003... The U-shaped yoke of the new Ciello low-voltage accent luminaire enables prices aiming of the beam through a range of angles. Several mounting options are available. The evenly distributed, low-glare light is UL-and CUL-listed for wet...

Low glow.(Outdoor Lighting)
September 1, 2003... Casting a glow over a landscaped area or path, the new Linear Path Light features a hall-dome of antiqued cast bronze and a prismatic spread lens. The path light measures 7 inches wide and projects 17/8 inches from the ground. Progress...

Flood levels.(Outdoor Lighting)
September 1, 2003... Designed to provide a wide range of lighting effects, the, new Farino flood light Uses six different reflectors and can achieve beam spreads of 10, 20, and 35 degrees. The cast-aluminum housing comes finished in graphite or matte silver gray...

Ambient options.(Outdoor Lighting)
September 1, 2003... The Ambiance landscape lighting system offers a wide selection of exterior lighting options, including well lights, linear deck lights, step and path lights, and spot and flood lights. An array of finishes and styles are available, and the...

Country charm.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... New Endureed English Thatch is a patented, synthetic roofing material that imitates the appearance of traditional thatched roofs, but is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance, according to the maker, it is covered by a 20-year...

Concrete shake.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... Emulating the appearance of wood shakes, new English Thatch concrete roof tiles feature splits on the thirds for a more natural random look. English Thatch tiles are available in four colors and four color blends. MonierLifetile. 800. 571.8453....

Artistic impressions.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... New Impressionist series color blends are created with two to three complementary ceramic glazes applied over a base color to the clay tiles. Available on Spanish, Mission, and Shingle the patterns. Impressionist color blends are Tuscany,...

Blended beauty.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... The new 451 pan tile in Victorian blend, Victorian grey blend, and Victorian blend with grey features a gentle wave profile. The extruded, overlapping clay roofing tiles meet or exceed ASTM C1167 Grade 1 requirements and are covered by the...

Copper creations.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... A four-way locking system on the new StoneCrest Copper shingle system provides weather-tight performance, says the maker. The shingles are constructed from a 16-ounce copper substrate with a stucco embossed texture. StoneCrest Copper is covered...

Smooth operator.(Windows)
September 1, 2003... Featuring a block-and-tackle balance system, new all-wood or aluminum-clad windows are available in several wood species and in a wide variety of exterior cladding colors. Vetter Windows & Doors. 800.838.8372. www.vetterwindows.com. Circle 155...

Lite bright.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... True divided-light windows are available in a variety of wood species, in energy-efficient glazing options, and in custom configurations. Parrett Windows. 800.541.9527. www.parrettwindows.com Circle 156 [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Old school.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... Old World Classic double-hung window features a brass chain and pulley system and ogee lugs in the exterior top sash stiles. The windows can be specified in pine, mahogany, cherry, or oak and with low-[E.sup.2] glass with argon gas. Kolbe &...

Traditional charm.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... The new 400 series Woodswright double-hung window features mortise-and tenon joints, a tall bottom rail, and a chamfer milling detail along the check rail. The wood windows come in four finishes. Andersen Windows. 800.426.4261....

Patina profiles.(Roofing)
September 1, 2003... Custom series windows in such woods as cherry, Spanish cedar, soft maple, and teak are available in a range of standard profiles with energy-efficient glazing options. Exterior options include copper cladding. Point Five Windows. 970.482.6971....

Super slider.(Last Detail)
September 1, 2003... Architect and owner Jeff Harrell likes to sleep in absolute darkness, while his wife prefers to let morning light flood the room. In their new home overlooking Whitefish Lake, Mont., they bridged their differences by installing a 10-by-8-foot...

Continual education.(Editors Notes)
September 1, 2003... The residential electronics industry has traveled a consSiderable distance in a relatively short time. The trip has been an exciting one for both custom home pros and their clients. And the journey is just beginning. To get some perspective on...

Strategic partners.(Opinion)(Editorial)
September 1, 2003... Welcome to the second edition of THE WIRED HOUSE, a cooperative endeavor between the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) and CUSTOM HOME. We hope this supplement will increase awareness for our strategic partners--custom...

High wire act: an installer can help juggle electronic systems and specialist.
September 1, 2003... Just about any custom builder will tell you the days when new-home buyers were satisfied with a television in the den and a stereo in the living room are long gone. Clients planning custom homes are now likely to ask for a variety of electronic...

Escape hatch: a home theater outside Boston takes its owners anywhere they want to go.
September 1, 2003... Mitchell Klein's suburban Boston clients envisioned their basement home theater as a place to escape from the humdrum of daily life. They placed so much importance on it, in fact, that they waited until the rest of their new home was completely...

User friendly: a high-tech home without a high-tech feel.(Estate of the Art)
September 1, 2003... Ask a focus group of wealthy, middle-aged, suburban women to create a wish list for the perfect home, and you're sure to get some interesting ideas. That's what the editors of BUILDER, our sister publication at Hanley-Wood, LLC, did to develop...

Total mobility.(Products for The Wired House)
September 1, 2003... The Mobile Companion wireless device allows homeowners to access and control home lighting, security, HVAC, and whole-house audio systems from any room in the house. CorAccess. 303.477.7757 www.coraccess.com. Circle 10 [ILLUSTRATION...

Light signals.(Products for The Wired House)
September 1, 2003... A hard-wired, three-component lighting control system, LiteTouch is designed to also control audiovisual equipment, window treatments, security systems, HVAC systems, and more. Control station keypad buttons are custom-engraved to identify...

Phone in.(Products for The Wired House)
September 1, 2003... The 2 x 10 KSU/PBX telephone system uses standard telephones to provide up to 10 extensions perline. It manages calls, allows fax calls to share lines, and features remote electronic door latch control. OnQ 800.321.2343. www.onqtech.com. Circle...

Call for backup.(Products for The Wired House)
September 1, 2003... The new Hybrid Backup Power System combines an inverted charger, a Kohler DC generator, batteries, and the option to add renewable energy capabilities. It automatically starts the generator when batteries need recharging. Xantrex Technology....

Have a seat.(Products for The Wired House)
September 1, 2003... New and refurbished commercial movie theater chairs are available in any configuration for home theater use. The Concorde Rocker (shown) comes in three styles with lumbar support. Booth Seating. 901.948.6515. www.boothseating.com. Circle 15 ...

Sit in.(Products for The Wired House)
September 1, 2003... One of many home cinema seats available from the company, the Celebrity lounger includes front-mounted beverage holders that remain hidden when not in use. The units fully recline and feature three viewing positions and a full-size leg and foot...

Grill seekers.(Editor's Notes)(Editorial)
September 1, 2003... What's more American than Mom and apple pie? Does your answer to that question involve some juicy hamburgers and a slab of ribs licked by flames to smoky perfection? If so, go to the head of the barbecue line. America is a nation of grillers....

Wade in: beach entries and sun shelves make fine entry points.
September 1, 2003... These days, pool design is all about creating a backyard oasis. So the popularity of beach entries and sun shelves makes perfect sense: They're beautiful, safe, practical, and fun. They add a resort-like quality to just about any backyard pool....

Where there's smoke: built-in grills fuel the outdoor kitchen trend.(In Depth)
September 1, 2003... There was a time when a good part of the American dream was to own a home with a backyard. Dad would drive to the hardware store right before Memorial Day and buy a "barbecue" for summer cookouts. Then, until Labor Day, the whole family would...

Water way: going with the flow in a Sacramento garden.
September 1, 2003... As soon as architect Gary Orr laid eyes on the client's undeveloped backyard, he saw great potential. The U-shaped house suggested a fiercely geometric plan softened by an occasional curve and lots of plants. "I immediately expressed to them...

Home games: this sites ready for action.
September 1, 2003... This Boca Raton Fla., home has something to please just about anyone: It's a child's paradise, an adult's at-home resort, and a guest's good luck. "The owners wanted it to be a safe harbor for their kids and their boats," says Rene Alonso,...

Deep water.(Spas)
September 1, 2003... The 35-inch-deep, circular, self-standing stainless steel Japanese soaking tub features a bench seat. Whirlpool, undermount, and self-rimming options are available. Diamond Spas. 800.951.7727. www.diamondspas.com. Circle 20 [ILLUSTRATION...

Filtered bubbles.(Spas)
September 1, 2003... Now available on all 850 series and Portfolio series spas, the MicroClean system uses a single filtering cartridge to deliver clean water circulation. Its disposable element captures ultra-fine particles and oils while its reusable...

Extreme luxury.(Spas)
September 1, 2003... The new LSX1050 spa features the Xtreme Therapy Seat with 20 jets and two whirlpools in an X pattern, as well as dual 15-nozzle Master Blaster foot jets. The LSX1050 is available with a pop-up 15-inch flat-screen Spa Theater System, Sony CD/FM...

Serene soak.(Spas)
September 1, 2003... The new Furo bath is 32 inches deep and comes in 30 colors. As a soaking bath, the Furo is available with one or two benches and as a whirlpool or thermo-air bath. Underwater chromatherapy lights, thermo-air massage, and self-cleaning systems...

Flames of steel.(Outdoor Products)
September 1, 2003... The Oasis stainless steel outdoor fireplace resists weathering and has a viewing area of 42 3/4 inches wide by 24 5/8 inches high. Stainless steel screens, optional bi-fold glass doors, and a brick interior are other features. Lennox Hearth...

Falling water.(Outdoor Products)
September 1, 2003... Gardenfalls are constructed of tempered cast glass in a wide variety of textures and colors and feature stainless steel frames in eight finishes, filtration systems, rock trays, and adjustable water flow. A trellis attachment, lighting and rock...

Fireside view.(Outdoor Products)
September 1, 2003... The new Twilight indoor/outdoor see-through gas fireplace allows the fire to be viewed from an interior space as well as an outdoor space. The outside face acts as a vent and no outside cap interferes with the view. Heat-N-Glo. 888.743.2887....

Room for sun.(Outdoor Products)
September 1, 2003... Custom-designed sunrooms and conservatories are built of aluminum-clad wood or aluminum and are 100 percent thermally broken. A variety of venting, shading, and glazing options are available, and exteriors can be finished in any of six standard...

Create customized entertainment centers.(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * With the BULL BRAMA series outdoor barbecues, you can create a customized entertainment center equipped with numerous features, accessories and material selections. * These barbecues fit handsomely within outdoor island built systems....

No more rust--and it locks!(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * D&D Technologies' Lokk-Latch PRO is one of the most sophisticated gate latches available. Molded from fiberglass-reinforced polymers with marine-grade stainless steel components and a six-pin lock, it's a robust, high impact product designed...

It just might be the easiest-to-sell fence ever!(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * Consumers are asking for BABY-LOC, the convenient new way to help deter toddlers from gaining access to a swimming pool, dock, or raised deck. * There is nothing for dealers its stock and no commitments. We can even supply leads! *...

Roman Fountains trident nozzle makes debut.(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * (Three Times the Nozzle--Half the Price!) The RTN-075-X3 Trident Nozzle from Roman Fountains Corporation is a unique and cost effective nozzle that produces three classic spray patterns within the same nozzle. * Three interchangeable...

Elegant backyard and garden furniture.(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * Complete selection of solid teak furniture. * Benches, tables, chairs, loungers and planters. * Lasts a lifetime. * Affordable pricing. Royal Teak 1857 Sabre Street Hayward, CA 94545 510.782.7966 * Fax...

SR Smith offers new ThePoolBar[R].(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * This innovative, patented design of two submersive seats and umbrella table with four recessed drink holders allows homeowners to spend more time in the water enjoying their pool! * Enjoy lunch, lemonade, watch children and relax while...

Your pool slide specialist.(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * Fiberglass Water Slides * Polyethylene Pool & Water Slides * Over 200 Designs * Custom Designs Available * Design & Installation Services Available Natural Structures PO Box 270 Baker City, OR 97814 ...

Over & under we've got you covered.(Backyard Living)
September 1, 2003... * Inground Liners, Custom free-form, wrinkle-free fit, competitve pricing, & free dealer lit. * Premium safety covers. Mesh, solid & commercial for all pool types. Triple stitched, dbl webbing and chafe strips for durability. *...