Posted by: Michael Ullrich, AIA

The Challenge:

This backyard oasis, in the heart of Bethesda, MD, boasts a manicured landscape, pool, and custom spa. But the existing wood deck did little to enhance the owners’ connection or enjoyment of their outdoor space. With multiple levels of odd proportion, the deck was underutilized and a constant frustration.

The first thing that struck me on my initial visit to the residence was; “something is missing”. The existing deck did nothing to harmonize or complete the composition of the house. So together, we set out to design and build (in the owners’ words) “a beautiful porch and deck space so we can watch our grandchildren enjoying the pool.”

The Solution:

A new screen porch nestles seamlessly into the corner of the existing house and completes the composition. Incorporating natural materials like; spanish cedar screen panels, and copper roofing the porch softens the line between inside and out while creating the perfect vantage point to watch over the pool.

The remaining deck space, though smaller, is highly functional for both entertaining and access to the back yard. Constructed of high quality composite materials the deck will be easily maintained so more attention can be directed to “spoiling the grandkids”.

Inspired? Check back frequently to see more of our dramatic before and afters.

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Why do we continue to make a list of New Year’s resolutions? We even write the same ones every year!   Whatever our good intentions were, by February or March, we have forgotten them for one more year. Here are some different ideas to try this year:

Quarterly or Monthly Goals

Rather than create a “year-long” to do list with goals, why not make it realistic with quarterly goals? For example, rather than “I’m going to become a chef and cook all meals at home”, develop short-term milestones; e.g. “I will complete one cooking class this month.” Focus on areas of your life that YOU enjoy. This way it is a more reasonable list and you are checking in with yourself more often.

Long-Term Goals

Rather than go “short term” why not create a Bucket List. This list is meant to be life long, so there is less pressure to accomplish everything THIS year, and more focus on long-term pursuits. It is also a fun list to create as a couple or family.

Year-Long Theme

Another option is create a theme for the year. For example, you may choose “health.” This means when given options of what to do, the choice will be health-related. The next year could be “friendship.” When choosing between going home after work like you want to or investing time in a new friendship, you choose the latter. This helps with daily decision making and keeps one from feeling too overwhelmed with trying self-improvement in multiple areas all at once.

Whichever approach you choose, do not set yourself up to fail. Self-improvement is meant to improve, not make you feel worse.

Read more helpful blogs from Pagenstecher Group

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Every November and December nonprofits are flooded with “How can I help?” requests from people wanting to give back to those in need. With so many reaching out at one time, these organizations are often unable to match the giver to a family in need. When this happens to you, it’s time to find ways to give back to those in your own neighborhood who are in need of assistance over the holidays.

Holiday Helpfulness

The holidays are stressful and come with their own set of chores and duties that can be challenging for those who struggle to get around, have limitations to their sight or dexterity, or cannot drive. Offer to take them shopping, wrap gifts, or hang their lights. Be sure to slow down and visit and make it a festive afternoon.

House Chores and Repairs

Check to see if a neighbor needs help with housecleaning before their families come to visit. If you notice a home repair that needs to be done, offer to fix it for them!

Food

Leftovers are abundant after holiday meals. Take some to a neighbor, or give some to your favorite server, emergency responder, or convenience store clerk who must work on Christmas.

Visit

One of the most simple and cherished things that one can do during the holiday frenzy – stop down and visit one another. Do you know of someone who cannot be with their family this year? Invite them to your house for dinner.

For those that have no support system or family nearby, the holiday season can be difficult. This holiday season it’s time for YOU to lift up a neighbor nearby.

Read more helpful blogs from Pagenstecher Group

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 The classic favorite eggnog can be made all year round, but is best enjoyed with family during holiday festivities. But where did it come from and why do we love it so?

Eggnog originated in the 14th century in England as “posset” which had cream or milk heated with ale or wine, and sweetened and spiced to taste. As the years passed, eggs were added to the concoction.  The term “nog” may have originated from the term “noggin” which is the wooden mug in which it was served or may be a contraction for the colonist’s favorite “egg and grog.”

Whatever its name, eggnog is easiest to find in abundance this time of year. Here is a cold eggnog recipe and hot spiked recipe for you to whip up.

Click here for more holiday cheer.

This article was posted in Pagenstecher Group Blogs and tagged with history of eggnog, eggnog history, eggnog recipe, mexican eggnog, southern eggnog, southern style eggnog

It’s time to sell your home, and you place it on the market during the holidays! Here are some tips for you to make the most out of this colorful season and increase your selling advantage:

Simple Christmas Décor

Keep your décor simple and classic with lights, wreaths, ribbon and natural elements. Clean up your yard and use the branches in your décor. Place them in pots and string them with lights and hang snowflakes. Voila!

Get Crafty

If you have window boxes that have no flowers during cold months, be sure to fill them with Christmas tree clippings, pine branches and holly. Garden hooks for summer plants can now be used for baskets of pine cones. Wrap greenery around mailboxes and string white lights through shrubbery and around porch banisters. Be sure to go easy on the array of décor when working with your entry way.

Wreaths

Wreaths can add a nice welcoming touch to the buyer. A homemade wreath can add even more interest. Use the branches that were cut from your live Christmas tree, or visit a craft store for pine garland. Assemble the branches into a circular shape, and attach leaves, holly, ribbons, and baubles of holiday colors. This bright spot of color will definitely invite the visitor to your door!

Tricky Christmas Lights

Holiday lights on a house can be tricky. Too few and they appear as an afterthought. Too many and it looks like you are competing with your neighbors. If you are unsure about how to hang lights properly or just don’t have the time, consider hiring a professional. These experts can reduce your stress and provide a more visually appealing display.

Consider these tips and ideas to help you maintain your curb appeal through the holiday season.

Read more helpful blogs from Pagenstecher Group.

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Pagenstecher Group

Complimentary Consultation - Visit http://www.pagenstechergroup.com

Our unique integration of professional design services and in-house building teams exceeds the norm of "design/build" as typically understood. By combining comprehensive architecture and building services under one roof, we provide highly creative designs, extraordinary craftsmanship, and thoroughly professional project supervision; all in an environment of accurate and reliable cost monitoring.

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There's no better time than May's National Home Improvement Month to start planning your next home-remodeling project. Upgrading an outdated kitchen or building an addition are a few examples that are manageable with a little advanced preparation and vision. To make the process less daunting, try these steps:

• Know why you’re remodeling. Are you selling? Addressing changing family needs or just upgrading? Your reasons for remodeling can impact your decisions—for example, if you’re selling, your choices may be more about buyer appeal than personal taste. On the other hand, if you’re building your dream kitchen, you may not want to compromise on certain features. Evaluate your project in light of your property value and return on investment and look for options that meet your overall needs.
• Make a wish list/scrapbook. Use the Internet to peruse articles, look at decorating magazines, and visit showrooms. Get brochures, color samples, and fabric swatches, and cut out or print pictures that show features or details of work that you like. Take pictures of other homes, and keep a scrapbook of ideas. These ideas can help your home-improvement specialist achieve the look you want.
• Know your budget. A realistic budget can help you prioritize options. In your bathroom upgrade, will you really use that expensive spa tub, or are luxury shower heads, bath fixtures, and a towel warmer more important? If you want a contemporary, industrial look in your kitchen, can you compromise elsewhere so that you can afford concrete or stainless-steel countertops?
• Remember that “form follows function.” Look at your existing space critically. Evaluate how you use it. Assess high-traffic areas, kitchen work triangles, and overall flow. Define what already works and what doesn’t. Get input from all family members, even children. The “look” of your new space should be secondary to layout and function. You can work on achieving that “magazine” look after you have the basics.
• Research products. Research your options for features like countertops and flooring. Manufacturers’ Websites are a great place to start, and most companies have an 800 number for product questions. Evaluate the pros and cons for each product type to determine which options suit your budget, lifestyle, and taste the best. For example, cork flooring is quite popular but soft, so it’s not suitable in high traffic areas. Consider something more durable, like tile. If you have children or elderly family members, slippery surfaces like marble or polished tile may not be suitable—laminate wood flooring or vinyl may be safer.

Some up-front planning and research can make your remodeling project go a lot smoother and help ensure that you’re satisfied with the end results. Above all else – remember to have fun! For more information go to: http://nl.r2rassoc.com/enews/3557/Pagenstecher-Group/

Also, visit the Pagenstecher Group website.

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Pagenstecher Group, www.pagenstechergroup.com, Design Build in Kensington, Maryland is a builder who has some ideas for lighting.  Read on for Pagenstecher Group advice for Kensington, Maryland…

All light bulbs are not created equal Posted by: Michael Ullrich, A.I.A.

Looking for ways to reduce energy costs in your home?  LED lighting is gaining popularity in residential markets, and offers some exciting new products worth considering.  One such product is the CR6 from Cree lighting. http://www.creelighting.com/                             

This retrofit LED down light works in most standard 6”cans.  Using Cree’s True White technology, the CR6 reduces energy consumption by over 80%, while delivering light quality equivalent to a standard 65 watt incandescent bulb.

Priced around $50 per unit, the payback in energy savings is estimated at 3-5 years (based on an average daily use around 6hours, depending on current energy costs).  With an average life expectancy estimated at 25 years, the CR6 may be the last replacement bulb you ever need.

If you are unhappy with the slow warm-up and poor color rendering of compact fluorescent bulbs, the CR6 might be the right light for you.

For more information on Pagenstecher Group in Kensington, Maryland go to: www.pagenstechergroup.com

This article was posted in MyBlog, Pagenstecher Group Blogs and tagged with bethesda, Chevy Chase, design build, Washington DC, Virginia, Maryland, Kensington

, www.pagenstechergroup.com,  Design Build in Potomac, Maryland has some ideas for you.  Read on for Pagenstecher Group advice for Potomac, Maryland…

For more information about Pagenstecher Group Design Build in Potomac, Maryland go to: www.pagenstechergroup.com

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Pagenstecher Group, www.pagenstechergroup.com,  Design Build in Bethesda, Maryland has some tips for spring cleaning.  Read on for Pagenstecher Group advice for Bethesda, Maryland…

Winter weather can often be hard on your home's exterior. With spring just around the corner, it's time to take a closer look and correct any problems that may have developed over the season. Post-winter "tune ups" are common and can easily be handled. Here's a checklist to get you started:

Gutters and downspouts

Remove leaves and debris. Check for joint separation, loose fasteners, or corrosion. Gutters can expand and contract with freezing and thawing, which causes sagging. Reattach so they're flush and secure against the roof. If you don't have them installed already, now is a perfect time to consider a gutter guard system, to alleviate gutter cleaning for good!
Brickwork and stucco
Check for deteriorated mortar or spalling, where the brick facing has chipped away to expose its interior. Spalling leaves the brick susceptible to moisture and crumbling. Seal these areas with an appropriate sealant. Check for white salt deposits that remain after water evaporates and brush gently to remove it.

Roof

Look for lost or damaged shingles. Check flashing around plumbing vents, skylights, and chimneys. Inspect attic rafters for water stains. Examine siding under the roof eaves and inside ceilings for water or discoloration; these indicate ice dams may have created leaks along the roof edge. Have any repair work done by a qualified roofer.

Chimney

Check the chimney exterior for signs of damage. Have the chimney cap and flue inspected for cracks or leaking. Get the chimney cleaned.

Siding and trim

Clean the exterior with a pressure washer to remove mold. Check wood surfaces for weathering. If paint is cracked or peeling and the wood is exposed, scrape loose paint, sand the area, and apply primer before painting. Replace any rotted wood.

Foundation

Monitor any hairline cracks in foundation walls. Minor cracks that result from settling are normal. Mark cracks with tape and check them every few months. If you can slide a nickel into any crack in your concrete slab or foundation, it's time to call in a professional.
Concrete driveways, patios, and walkways
Inspect for cracks or signs of movement. Fill cracks with a concrete filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, pressure-wash the concrete and seal.

Air conditioning

Have a qualified contractor clean and service the outside unit of your air conditioning system.

Landscaping

Trim all vegetation and overgrown bushes that are touching structure to prevent them from scratching the sides of the house. Check for weakened trees and broken branches.

Sprinklers

Check your lawn sprinkler system for leaks, exposed lines, and broken sprinkler heads.

Decks and porches

Check for loose boards and deterioration. Look for water stains or signs of decay where the deck ties to the house. Wash decking to remove moss and mold.

For more information about Pagenstecher Group Design Build go to: www.pagenstechergroup.com

This article was posted in MyBlog, Pagenstecher Group Blogs and tagged with Washington DC, Virginia, Maryland, design build in bethesda, S_pagenstecher

The Pool House by Brenneman & Pagenstecher

Clean lines and the gracefully curving roof combine with the use of Seneca sandstone for the foundation and cedar clad walls to nestle this Darnestown Md pool house into the landscape. The Seneca sandstone was reclaimed from demolished buildings.

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Earth Tones Bring Outside In by Brenneman & Pagenstecher

In this Bethesda MD home remodel the use of natural wood and rough hewn stone creates a wonderful feeling of warmth.  It also strengthens the connection with the landscape.  The wood doesn’t create a contrast to interfere when looking out. The result brings the outside in.

This article was posted in MyBlog, Pagenstecher Group Blogs and tagged with S_pagenstecher, wonderful feeling of warmth, natural wood, Bethesda MD home remodel, Earth Tones Bring Outside In by Brenneman & Pagens

The key to attracting people to the basement is to create a space that tells a story and is unique to the rest of the house.
In this Darnestown MD remodel we wanted the feeling of a rustic lodge.  To achieve this we wrapped the the beams and columns with rough pine and detailed it to make it look like massive columns complete with steel connecting straps.  In the bathroom the walls are covered with horizontal planks.  Both the fireplace and the bar make use of natural stone.  Every design element is used to reinforce the story of a rustic lodge making it feel like a vacation cabin.

This article was posted in MyBlog, Pagenstecher Group Blogs and tagged with S_pagenstecher, horizontal planks, bathroom, a rustic logde, Darnestown MD remodel, A Rustic Basement by Brenneman & Pagenstecher