The difference between a Custom home builder and a Production home builder

Taken from the NAHB Site:

Custom home builders generally:

• Build on land you own. Some custom builders also build on land they own.
• Build one-of-a-kind houses. A custom home is a site-specific home built from a unique set of plans for a specific client. Some custom builders may offer design/build services.
• Build single-family homes.
• Are generally small-volume builders (those that build 25 or fewer homes a year).
• Tend to build high-end homes.

Production home builders generally:

• Build on land they own.
• Tend to use stock plans, but usually offer a variety of plan choices and options.
• Build all types of housing — single-family, condos, town houses, and rental properties.
• Are large-volume builders (those that build more than 25 homes a year).
• Generally build for all price points — entry level, move up, luxury, etc.

http://www.nahb.org/generic.aspx?genericContentID=3911%20

Bathroom Tilework

There are infinite options when it comes to the tile and stone selection these days. Often the biggest design challenge in the bathroom is the tile or stone selection for the bath/shower.  Water, dirt, beauty products, and soap scum all play major factors in the durability of the selection but a balance must be struck between the beauty and the functionality of the product.
For both the walls and floor it is wise to consider factors such as the amount of grout work. A bigger tile or slab of stone is going to give you less grout to clean than, say, shower walls covered in 1 x 1 glass tiles but a 12" x 12" tile may not offer the distinction you are going for. In this case consider using both; a smaller tile border at the top or middle of the shower or smaller tiles in the niches can break up the monotony of a larger tile. If your budget allows, consider using large slabs of stone to offer a seamless (grout less) look. Many times these large slabs offer beautiful distinction in natural colors and patterns. River rock on the floor may give a bit of grout to clean but gives a spa-like touch to the space. In cases where the grout-lines win, consider splurging on a high-test sealer to make it easier to clean.
When it comes to color selection, the sky is the limit, but consider the purpose of the space before choosing too quickly. Yes, a shower is meant to get you clean, but many people's shower and bath time is also meant for relaxation or mental processing. Does black or red help you to achieve your shower/bath goals of relaxation? Maybe. But we would venture to say you may want to stick to lighter more clean or neutral colors with pops of greens or blue or maybe even golds.

asian bathroom design by albuquerque kitchen and bath Camian Larson

traditional bathroom design by calgary general contractor Veranda Estate Homes & Interiors

traditional bathroom design by vancouver design-build Debbie Evans,RID

modern bathroom design by other metros interior designer Kimberly Arnold Fletcher

contemporary bathroom design by san francisco kitchen and bath Julie Williams Design

contemporary bathroom design by vancouver interior designer Claudia Leccacorvi

contemporary bathroom design by detroit kitchen and bath Xstyles bath

contemporary bathroom design by san luis obispo architect Leonard Grant Architecture

contemporary bathroom design by san francisco design-build Harrell Remodeling

traditional bathroom design by austin interior designer Laura Britt Design

Outdoor Living: Fire and Water

At least 9 months out of the year, Floridians have the luxury of spending copious amounts of time outdoors. For many Sarasota residents pools and outdoor kitchens are just as important as dining rooms. As a chill in the evening air is upon us signifying a Florida "change in seasons," we are not quite ready to forgo pool-time so we love the idea of adding a heating and light element to your outdoor living space. Here is some fire and water inspiration found on Houzz.com:

eclectic exterior design by los angeles architect Tracy Stone AIA

 The transition from lap-pool to hot tub and the landscape and decking that surrounds make this a very inviting space. A great juxtaposition was created by combining cool blue tones of the water in the pools and the gray stones of the fire pit with the warm and inviting fire in the pit and the wood tones of the decking. Many times the fire pit will be completely removed from the pool but in this case, you could be in the jacuzzi and feel the glow of the fire.

tropical pool design by hawaii interior designer Philpotts Interiors

Fire bowls are a great way to add a fire element to your outdoor space when you are not ready for it to be permanant. There is something ceremonial and regal about these particular bowls. It could be that proportionally, they are large in comparison to the pool area. They work, though, and could double as planters during some seasons, if you wanted to change it up.

eclectic patio design by other metros landscape architect Prideaux Design

This represents a great use of space. On one side of the fire pit you have a jacuzzi, on the other you have a dry outdoor seating space. The different levels allow for both sides to enjoy the light and warmth of the fire but still be socially in same space.

HOW WOULD YOU ADD FIRE TO YOUR WATER?