Ole Decor Summer 2010

1
SUMMER 2010
!"#$%&$'($)*%+#,-$./0%/122*#%345,'678%9::%;<5</#
+*,4/%/*',<=#*>%?25.*%/@A<*B%)#,5=$%)2A2'/%2'%'2*>
C22D/%=22-%,5-%A,/*/%(2'%E:F%4$,'/G
?,/#%25)$%$H$'4%I%4$,'/%2'%A$//>
E:%J$,'%C<1<*$-%C<($*<1$%?,'',5*4>
K2%"$'1<*$%L,1,=$>
MMIN%K2'*#%OA,12%7->
OA,12B%"$P,/%QN9MR
NRRSTRQSIN::
UUU>#21$S$5>)21
2 SUMMER 2010
Virginia Mill Works Cambridge Oak
“ THE FLOORS TRANSFORMED
THE LOOK OF THE HOUSE.”
SARAH C., USTIN, TX A
Stores oat|oow|de! -or a F8££ cata|og or a store oear yo0 ca||
1-800-hA80w000 or go to |0mber||g0|dators.com. 6|It cert|hcates ava||ab|e.
3
SUMMER 2010
Interiors by Cantoni
Atlanta 1011 Monroe Drive, 404.881.8111
Dallas 4800 Alpha Road, 972.934.9191
Houston 9889 Westheimer Road, 713.787.9494
Irvine 8650 Research Drive, 949.585.9191
Los Angeles 420 N. La Brea Avenue, 323.634.0909
cantoni.com 877.881.9191
Great Design Is a Way of Life
!"
Cantoni. Italian Attitude.
The Klee is a bold example of the craftsmanship that has made
Italian furniture the ultimate in modern upholstery. This straight
lined sofa features the highest quality luxury leather available,
naturally oiled with edge to edge seams. For Italian style in
modern home furnishings, for inspired design, for a vast
selection – in stock – delivery and installation, Cantoni.

To see the complete collection of great interiors by the Cantoni
Design Studio visit a showroom or cantoni.com/klee
4 SUMMER 2010
5
SUMMER 2010
6 SPRING 2010
Letter from the Editor,
TGIS, Ole Décor’s playful take on four other
famous letters: “Thank God Its Summer!” We love
summertime in the valley. Everyone is outside,
enjoying yards, outdoor kitchens, patios, decks
and especially pools! In our yearly summertime
favorite, Spectacular Swimming Pools you’ll nd
ideas to transform your backyard into an oasis.
As you will see it starts with a spectacular pool,
and nishes with incredible options for all the
space surrounding the water. Patio ideas, shade
treatments, and true outdoor living areas should
be included in any project, and we’ve listed top
notch companies that can keep you and your
family outdoors day and night.
Casa Remodel, one of our most popular mainstay
articles features a home in McAllen that has
actually been transformed more than once. It is
a beautiful estate on the banks of a lake, with a
very eclectic design principle guiding it. Touches
of antiques the owners have collected from their
travels, combined with recycled Chicago brick and
authentic old tin ceiling tiles mix harmoniously
with hand hewn hardwood oors, stained glass
windows and accents, custom built cabinetry
and crystal lighting. The home is immense,
however careful planning and design makes every
room warm and comfortable. The remodel was
extensive, and the master bedroom, well, just have
a gander at our front cover!
Home Theaters are a hot trend, and they are not
only for watching movies. This room is becoming
the modern day family den. Integrated screens
allow you to watch movies, your favorite sporting
event, TV show, or concert. Some can even be
hooked up to the internet for video conferencing.
With full bars, kitchenettes, and gaming tables,
theater rooms are multipurpose and enjoyed by
everyone. And what better way to cool o from
a hot summer day, than watching a great movie
in a cool dark theater without ever having to leave
home. Our article will give you great advice on
the steps to take when planning your own home
theater.
Finally, and sometimes the best is saved for last,
our Fabulous Spaces Public Places features the
Alhambra Restaurant and Hookah Bar. The space
is incredible! The ambience brings you out of
McAllen and into a far away Mediterranean
land, with hints of romance, intrigue, and
adventure. Crisp white linens ap in the breeze
as they wrap around the walls and ceiling of your
outside cabana. Exotic scents ll the air and soft
conversations are lifted through the courtyard.
We love this place so much, when you visit look
for us, we’ll probably be enjoying the atmosphere
with a sprig of mint in our glasses.
Cheers,
Eddie and Sandra
Antiques ll the fall issue, whether it’s a piece of
furniture from North Carolina dating back to the
1800’s, or a hand stamped copper lighting sconce
from old Mexico, antiques are making a huge
comeback in today’s décor. There are also replicas
of antiques that look so authentic, only a museum
curator could tell the dierence. Perhaps this trend
has come alive because of the huge emphasis on
remodeling homes that makes people want to not
just restore their homes, but restore once beautiful
treasures. Maybe it’s because of all the creative
designers and decorators who have really honed
their skills on combining old with new, historical
with modern, or maybe it’s just because in this fast
paced life we all lead, a piece from history slows
us down and forces us to reect on all that came
before us. Whatever the reason, we are looking
forward to hunting for our own treasure from the
past, and incorporating it into our home décor.
Luxury Living juxtaposes two very opposite styles
in order to really emphasize two far ends of the
spectrum. Ultra modern in McAllen, meets ultra
Shabby Chic on South Padre Island. Clean lines
and neutral color palate, empty spaces and shiny
surfaces, meets bold color, intricately carved and
painted furniture, and custom surface treatments
just about everywhere you look. Sophisticated
meets whimsical, serious meets spontaneous, and
elegant meets charming. It’s not to say that these
homes have nothing in common, they both are
the epitome of luxury. We can’t wait to show you
these two homes; you’ll be swept o your feet in
two far reaching directions.
“Mirror Mirror on the Wall” is not exactly how we
would phrase it, but decorating with mirrors is
what the article is about. Mirrors extend way
beyond the boundaries of the bathroom vanity
and appear in every room of the house. Mirrors as
ne art pieces, hand crafted, etched, carved, and
cut can be a focal point of an entire room. Mirrors
on doors and walls can open up small spaces, we
all know that, but they can also hide safe rooms,
elevators, and security exits. Mirrors serve to
accent furniture, wallpapers, tiles, and lighting.
This article is going to open your eyes and give
you plenty of reasons to stare into the mirror other
than to check your hair.
We are all praying that the oil spill in the Gulf
of Mexico can be contained very soon, and
the tragedy that continues to unfold over that
situation has led to a nationwide discussion
about the unfortunate dependency on oil we
have in this country. Now more than ever, its
time to investigate green technology, wind and
solar power, clean fuels, energy saving building
materials, and products that are made with
recycled materials and produce less waste. Our
staple editorial column titled “Eco Friends” has
grown into a full page, written by leaders in
the green industry, and designed to oer you
solutions you can take advantage of immediately.
Please, let’s do what we can to help our earth, if we
all do a little it will add up to a lot.
Visit:
www.oledecor.com
read current & past issues
link to advertisers
view episodes
Call:
sales: 956-266-8663
fax: 956-761-2388
Email:
[email protected]
Olé Decor oces:
5800 Padre Blvd.
Ste. 201 A&B
South Padre Island, TX
1520 Dove Ave. Suite E
McAllen, TX
Mailing address:
P.O. Box 40101
South Padre Island, TX 78597
in next issue on the cover / contact

We are so proud
to feature for the
rst time a master
bedroom on the
cover of Ole Décor.
This is because
until now, we
had never seen a
bedroom as grand
as this. VHS Design
and its owner Vicki
Southwell created
this room as part
of a very extensive
home remodel.
Vicki’s design and décor air along with the
home owners’ rened tastes were the perfect
collaboration.
The opulence of this master bedroom
is punctuated by its hanging center piece. An
estate antique crystal chandelier measuring
over 7 feet in diameter, suspended directly over
the master bed. Dim the lights, open to Casa
Remodel, and experience the romance and
luxury found in every room of this spectacular
home.
6 SPRING 2010
7
SPRING 2010
8 SUMMER 2010
9
SUMMER 2010

Decorating with
Pools and Accessories 26
Showcase
Sorteo Tec
Lucky Number 181 56
Indoor Living
Home Box Oce 52
Eco Friend
Alan Camau 22
Fine Art
Gallery Guide 60
Distinctive Properties
Luxury Real Estate 48
Fabulous Spaces, Public Places
Alhambra Restaurant 16
& Hookah Lounge
Casa Remodel
Second Time Around 34
Luxury Homes,
A Friendly Match 40
Sandy, Smart & Savvy 44

In next issue:
Casa Remodel
Mirror Mirror on the Wall?
Timeless Beauty
Opposite Ends
Eco Friends
Fabulous Spaces, Public Places
Gallery Guide
Sorteo Tec #182
Contact us:
Ole Décor Magazine
956-266-8663 |[email protected]
www.oledecor.com | printed in mexico
contents:
26
56
52
10 SUMMER 2010
16
11
SUMMER 2010
12 SUMMER 2010
13
SUMMER 2010
!"#$%&'%$()*+"#),%!-)&.*,-
ó 0 º F e c cn 8 | v c. - Mc /| | e n , I X 7 8 5 0 1 - : u n : e I | i v i n gó 0 º @y ch c c . c c m
I e | : º 5 ó . 8 º 0 . 8 1 º 8 - º 5 ó . ó 3 0 . 4 8 8 ó
Mc/0)i1)%I23y
!"#$%&&'$
Ly:
)
14 SUMMER 2010
15
SUMMER 2010
Alhambra
McAllen, Texas
We live our lives within spaces and structures.
Our memories are all attached to locations,
where the surroundings around us effect our
moods and inspire emotions. A church inspires
calm, a concert hall excitement, and our
childhood home comfort. The Alhambra design
process started by brainstorming not what the
structure would look like but rather the energy
and feelings the building would inspire. The
owners thought about the special moments
they had in their lives and the places they had
them in, drawing ideas form these experiences.
For Alhambra the goal was to create an
environment of laughter, excitement, wonder
of the unknown, and island relaxation. The
Mediterranean, with its eclectic mix of cultures
and history, beautiful beaches and azul water
was the point of departure. Alhambra was to
capture the Moorish and Spanish traditions
of the Alhambra Palace in Granada Spain and
bring them to downtown McAllen. Invoking
the feel of the Alhambra Palace and at the same
time trying not to mimic the already amazing
ancient Palace was our challenge. We wanted
to create something entirely new and original
drawing on traditional elements. Although we
were conceptualizing from a building that was
more than 700 years old, the goal was always to
produce a modern building. The challenge was
to meld these contradicting ideas.
Our new site was a 50 year-old building with
a few constraints mainly dealing with the
general layout of the building and having to
distribute everything according to what was
already there. The only additional structures
built were the front breezeway entrance, the
outdoor bar and terrace and the outdoor
bathrooms. Everything else was space ready to
be transformed.
Alhambra is both a restaurant and a bar. These
two spaces had to be separated so that the
louder bar atmosphere was not intrusive on
our diners but remained close enough to share
the same level of atmosphere. For the bar
we wanted to provide a completely different
experience that other bars downtown couldn’t
offer, and that was space. We didn’t want the
all-to-familiar feeling of being sandwiched
between two people while trying to get to the
bar. After going through many floor plans we
decided on one that would provide the most
open space and integration of all areas. A key
element in the design which allowed us to
bring all spaces together while still providing
enough division to create discrete vignettes
were the La Cantina bi-folding doors. These
Fabulous Spaces Public Places
16 SUMMER 2010
doors enabled us to bring our outdoor patios,
indoor dining, and outdoor dining together.
One area seamlessly flows to the next while
at the same time each area possesses its own
unique energy.
The front entrance perfectly captures what
the overall design is supposed to be. As you
approach the entrance you’ll notice a beautiful
modern teak wood facade, with sharp edges
and diagonal lines defining the entryway. The
modern facade is juxtaposed with an imported
traditional Moroccan door, with hand carvings
reminiscent of the Alhambra in Granada Spain.
Surrounding the magnificent door is custom
made ironwork shaped with a modern pattern
yet redolent of typical Moroccan shapes. Its
magnitude also transforms traditional star
patterns into a contemporary motif. Once
you enter you are fully transported outside
McAllen. All of a sudden the McAllen breeze is
sweeter.
To the left and right are the outdoor patios with
three cabanas on each side. The experience is
multi sensory. Your eyes see lush green tones
from the gardens separating each of the cabanas,
and the o-white drapes owing from the
breeze. You can hear the leaves rustling and the
apping of the fabric from the strong McAllen
winds. Since Alhambra is also a hookah bar the
avored tobacco gives o a scent of blended
fruits. Looking down the patio you will see the
cement oor in a blue toned checkered pattern
that could have come from the Mediterranean
sea. Here again the pattern was enlarged to give
it a modern feel. The combination of the cement
oors, and the wooden cabanas and facade give
the building rawness to its pronounced elegance.
The Cabanas were designed to give their
backs to the street in-order to set some kind of
barrier between being inside or out. The fence
was designed to intrigue those on the outside
hence the large gaps between wooden planks.
The drapes of the cabanas give another barrier
between the outside and gives a more private
experience when in the cabana. As you walk by
on the outside there are moments when you can
get a glimpse of what is going on inside yet not
enough to satisfy ones curiosity.
Decor and design elements a collaboration by
IDEO Art Design & Juan Carlos Zapata.p14
Opposite middle: Billowing custom linen
cabana walls,Canali Interiors.p36
Opposite bottom: Collapsable wall of doors
give patrons an indoor and outdoor dining
experience, La Cantina Doors.p19
17
SUMMER 2010
Furniture used was a special outdoor plastic
wicker and are highlighted by bright orange
Patone Chairs. The Chairs provide a whimsical
touch to the overall design. At first we
questioned whether we could use such a
modern looking chair for our Moroccan design,
but when we saw a picture of one the chairs
in a Moroccan home we knew it was the right
chair.
Stepping inside Alhambra transports you
further, with vibrant colors everywhere.
Orange sectionals bounce off the sapphire
blue colored concrete floors. The original
concrete had many delightful imperfections
that make the concrete look almost like stone.
The sectionals are highlighted by imported
Moroccan tables. On the far end of the
Lounge is a faux finished semi private area.
We wanted the paint to look old so a faux
finish was done, yet we also wanted the old
to look new, so we used metallic bright pink
plaster. Again we combined old traditional
elements with modern materials and color. The
result is a majestic reinterpretation of the old
traditions. The pink room is made cozier with
its Moroccan tin lamps that let light through
tiny holes which project patterns on the walls.
The other striking feature is the facade of the
indoor and outdoor bar. The same pattern as
the front entrance ironwork was used to create
a silhouette with color changing LED lighting.
The 30 foot bar extends through to the outside
creating an illusion that makes it seem larger
than it really is. The back bar is adorned with
an intricate Moroccan stencil modernized with
a new foiling technique. The same technique
is used in the archways of the hallways and in
the pink room. Various Moroccan stencils were
used to bring the modern space down to earth
and back in tune with tradition. You experience
neither the coldness of minimalist modern
design nor the over bearing and stuffiness of
more traditional decoration. Instead, what is
born is the old reinterpreted to bring freshness
and fun to the space.
My favorite part of the whole design is the
hallway leading to the restrooms and dining
room. It was painted in a metallic bright aqua
color again with a modern faux finish. It was
Outdoor wicker furniture made of synthetic
rattan extend the life of a classic, favorite,
timeless style, Sunset Living.p59
Opening spaces where once were walls is a
concept that La Cantina Door Systems has
made interchangeable. Opposite page.
a bold statement that signaled to everyone
that it would embrace the unconventional. At
Alhambra be prepared to be surprised with
color and flavor.
The best view of the patio is from the upstairs
terrace where you can see the intermingling of
people. From this vantage point, the moments
others are having are irresistible to watch. At
Alhambra, a birthday celebration, anniversary,
or party is a memory that will stay forever and
as that energy and excitement fills Alhambra’s
spaces, it will eventually become one of the
stories that weaves itself into a tradition in
McAllen.
Contributing Writer: Juan Carlos Zapata
18 SUMMER 2010
19
SUMMER 2010 888.338.5237 |acant|nadoors.com
Embrace New Space
Photographer: Javier Sepúlveda
/''·|· ¯e¦·J·¦ ¯· '/''e ¯e·
LaCant|na Doors comp|ete|y change your env|ronment. E||m|nat|ng wa||s and extend|ng
your ||íesty|e írom outs|de |n. Our ío|d|ng door systems create an e|egant statement |n any
env|ronment, whether |n a 5-star resort, an upper-c|ass restaurant, or your own backyard. Made
to measure |n the Ün|ted States, LaCant|na Doors íeatures the h|ghest qua||ty hardware and |s
ava||ab|e |n sty||sh wood, c|ad, a|um|num, and a|um|num wood des|gns.
Pequest a new 2010 product b|nder at www.|acant|nadoors.com/arch|tect.aspx.
20 SUMMER 2010
21
SUMMER 2010
22 SUMMER 2010
Green Is The New Gold
What are insulated concrete forms?
ICF’s are hollow “blocks” or “panels” made of plastic
foam that construction crews stack into the shape of
the walls of a building. The workers then ll the center
with reinforced concrete to create the structure.
ICF’s are basically forms for poured concrete walls
that stay in place as a permanent part of the wall
assembly.
The forms, made of foam insulation, are either
pre-formed interlocking blocks or separate panels
connected with plastic ties. The left-in-place forms
not only provide a continuous insulation and sound
barrier, but also a backing for drywall on the inside,
and stucco, lap siding, or brick on the outside.
Recourse Eciency
ICF’s are made from Expanded Polystyrene (EPS),
which was developed as a use for a waste stream
product in the development of oil. In other words,
it was originally considered post industrial recycled
material. The Styrene resins are transported to the
local molding plant where they are expanded to 28
times their size with the use of only air and moisture.
And to top this o, EPS R-value does not diminish
over time, saving many barrels of oil and tons of
coal with the greatly reduced heating and cooling
requirements. Now that’s an eective use of material.
Energy Savings
Saving Energy is the world’s top priority. The building
sector accounts for 50% of America’s energy use, in
the heating and cooling of the building. ICF walls can
make a dierence to the thermal envelope due to
the combined eect of the continuous R-Value, the
airtight construction and thermal mass mitigation.
Energy ecient construction is booming, driven by
higher fuel prices, record –setting temperatures and
more stringent energy codes. Contractors are pushed
to nd better solutions for the building envelope.
While R-values have been the traditional measure of
energy eectiveness, evidence now points to other
factors witch contribute equally to energy eciency.
This is the rest of the story of the ICF Eect.
As builders adapted new insulation materials and the
HVAC industry develop more accurate equipment
sizing software, one thing becomes quite apparent:
R-value alone does not reect the true eectiveness
of a material when installed. If it did, then wood
frame house with an R-19 berglass batt would have
the same energy performance as an Insulated
We call this the ICF Eect
The energy eectiveness of an ICF was is due to three
important factors:
1. Continuous R-Value
The R-value of a material is based on laboratory
testing of a sample piece. It does not take into
account gaps or variations in thickness. In real life,
the R-value of an installed wall assembly should be
the weighted average of all the wall components.
For Example: berglass batt (R13), wood stud (R- 4.38
for a 2x4) and air gaps (R-0 zero). In this case, the
combined R-value is less than the tested value of the
insulation component. By comparison, the R-value
of ICF’s is constant. The foam form and its associated
R-value, is continuous by necessity as a forming
system. For example, an R-22 ICF system performs at
a true R-22 level.
2. Reduced Air Inltration
Over half the energy loss of a frame home is
due to unwanted air inltration and heat loss
through the wall assembly. Air can penetrate into a
building through many channels- sheathing gaps,
penetrations at balconies or cantilevered oors, and
insulation gaps in the wall cavity. Also, humidity and
drying of the wood frame causes movement in the
wood framing and contributes to post-construction
leakage. Air inltration coming from these gaps is
typically around .5 ACH (air changes per hour), which
means that each hour, half the air volume of a house
is exchanged for outside air that needs to be heated
/cooled.
3. Thermal Mass Moderation
The ICF concrete core oers the characteristic
thermal mass qualities of heat absorption and
thermal lag. The additional insulation of an ICF wall
further delays the transfer of heat to the inside of the
building. This combination serves to reduce and
delay peak loads, witch may result in lower o-peak
energy pricing and reduced HVAC equipment size. In
climates with large diurnal temperature swings, the
mass wall can release absorbed heat energy to the
cooler night air, a process called heat ow reversal.
This insulated thermal mass application provides
an excellent pairing with passive solar design. The
ICF wall moderates indoor temperature swings and
reduces the amount of heating/cooling needed. This
in turn reduces the amount of exposed thermal mass
needed for passive solar heating. Mass oors, interior
walls and other surfaces can meet this exposed mass
requirement.
How does the home owner benet?
Comfort: Houses built with ICF walls have a much
more even temperature throughout the day and
night. They have virtually no “cold spots”, and sharply
fewer drafts.
Solidity: The rigidity of concrete construction
reduces the ex in oors and cuts shifting and
vibration from the force of the wind or the slamming
of a door. Concrete houses survive high-force
winds like hurricanes far better than wood homes.
And when properly reinforced, they should also
withstand earthquakes well.
Quietness: About one-sixth as much sound gets
through an ICF wall compared with an ordinary
frame wall. This sharply cuts the intrusion of noise
from outside.
Energy Eciency: The superior insulation, air
tightness, and mass of the walls cut the amount of
energy needed for heating and cooling by 30-40%.
This can save $300-400 per year in a typical home. In
addition, it allows the installation of smaller heating
and cooling equipment. That can reduce the initial
cost of a house by over a thousand dollars.
Design Flexibility: ICF houses can be completed
with almost any interior and exterior nishes and
can take any shape as easily as wood frame. In fact,
some interesting eects, such as curved walls and
frequent corners, can be less expensive to build into
an ICF home.
Energy Ecient construction is top priority for the
construction industry. The Energy Star for homes
program has experienced a sizeable increase in
builder participation. New guidelines call for a
continuous thermal envelope and tighter air barrier
requirements, which are the very strengths of
ICF’s.
It’s time to look beyond the R-Value and learn the rest
of the story. Insulated Concrete Form construction
oers a complete energy solution that makes
economic sense today, while helping to meet the
energy need for future generations.
Materials Center is a proud carrier of Novidesa
Insulated Concrete Forms. See opposite page.
23
SUMMER 2010
24 SUMMER 2010
25
SUMMER 2010
!"#"$%&'(%)*(+,-%.*$"&%*-+%#/&.%$/,%-,0,#$%*++"$"&-%
$&%1,#")-,(%2&-#")-,(3%%4&$#%5(&6%#,7,(*8%+"55,(,-$%
9&'-$(",#% *(&'-+% $/,% 0&(8+% )"7,% :&'(% )*(+,-% *-+%
.*$"&% $/*$% #.,9"*8% *..,*83% % ;&9*$,+% "-% 4&($% <#*=,8>#%
;")/$/&'#,%?@'*(,3
!"#$%#&%'()*+(,-#%%(.'//$0123
(4'5'67$*02(!0/(8"'0729
!"#$%&'!("$')**#+&#$
ABC%D3%E*F*-G%4&($%<#*=,8
H/,%;")/$/&'#,%?@'*(,%
H,8I%JKLMJANMKBJK
Arte En Cantera
Stone Pool Coping & Decking
The coping is one of the most important elements in a swimming pool
structure, particularly in inground or onground swimming pool construction.
Coping is a smart way to add texture to your pool design. However, if you
want to tie in other materials or just have a visual edge to the pool, using a
dierent coping material can be a stylish choice. 
Contemporary stone pool ideas use stone tiles to create the deck, coping,
walls and/or oor of the pool. The deck creates the walkway around the pool
and the coping creates the non-slip trim around the edge of the pool. You
can limit your use of stone to just the deck and coping around a pool insert,
or build a custom pool with stone tiles.
Also being one of the most durable pool edgings is stone pool coping. Made
of sandstone, limestone, bluestone or travertine, it can withstand wear,
chlorine and bromine pool treatments, and all kinds of weather to keep your
pool looking beautiful for years.
We at Arte en Cantera in Mcallen can help, guide and show you the dierent
varieties of stone coping we have available. See pg. 31
Custom Creations
Natural Stone Pavers
Custom Creations in Donna built this beautiful pool deck using Travertine
stone in Mocha. The pattern is called Versias and combines 4 sizes of travertine
tile with two dierent edge types, a polished edge forms the coping around
the pool itself and the rough hewn travertine covers the large pool patio
area. Travertine is perfectly suited for pool paving applications because it can
withstand the constant eects of pool waters. Travertine can also meet the
exact desired eect of poolside paving because it is an evergreen, meaning
it has an incredible ability to produce a matching eect to the pool as well as
surrounding garden features.
The key attributes of durability, strength, non-slip features, cooler surface, and
soft natural color are the basis of why many people are turning to Travertine for
their poolside areas. Travertine stone pavers are so versatile and the patterns
and design possibilities are endless. Travertine is available in various colors,
textures, shapes and sizes. Carl, the owner of Custom Creations has over 20
years experience and there is nothing he can’t custom design uniquely for
you. Call and “Ask for Carl”, and while you are discussing the perfect color of
travertine for your pool deck, ask him to throw in an outdoor kitchen, re pit,
and palapa! See pg. 30
Outdoor Living
Pool by: Hamlin Pools
!"#$%
!
!""#
26 SUMMER 2010
Eden Pools
Fire Bowls and Spas
To create an incredible environment you must analyze all the elements involved
in the backyard.  A pool by itself will not get the result most people are looking
for.  You have to create a plan so that the backyard becomes an extension of
the home. This involves an analysis of the landscape, irrigation, patio, lighting,
and pool.
Eden really starts with the belief that back yards are a place to come, relax, and
entertain, which should be a reection of the owner personal style and taste.
Our focus remains on achieving the desired result so that each time the owner
sees the project, it positively rearms why they spent the money. 
Each project is a reection of the owner.  People are dierent and you have to
understand the customer.  You will notice this picture is of a very contemporary
pool with rustic elements.  You see the rustic side in the rock around the arbors,
banco’s and outdoor kitchen.  The rustic elements blend with the cutting edge
design, lighting and deck. One of the owners grew up on a ranch and the other
loves to hunt.  Together, they both fell in love with the owing lines of the
design and the rustic edges of the rock. When we please our customers with
unique projects, we have achieved our ultimate goal. See inside back cover
Home Enhancements
Pergolas
“The Perfect Shade” oers many dierent sized frame members allowing for
exible designs, ranging from a rened and sophisticated look using aestheti-
cally pleasing shapes to a rustic western ranch look. “The Perfect Shade” sys-
tem allows an innite variety of architectural designs. The ability to customize
“The Perfect Shade” to your home’s style and color will give you the elegant
enhancement you deserve and desire.
3”x8” beam can span up to 23 feet. Allows for an open and relaxing atmo-
sphere. Stays straight. Woun’t split, change colors or rot. Won’t burn or con-
tribute to ame spread. Aluminum Alloy & Kynar 500 Finish defeats bugs.
Choice of colors to match most landscapes. The heavy embossed wood grain
pattern will allow ash, dirt or pollen to stick due to “The Perfect Shade’s”
smooth Kynar 500 nish.
Depending on structure size, 35% - 45% higher than wood at time of initial
construction. Looks good and lasts for 30+ years! Wash once every 2 years ors
less. Kynar 500 Finish keeps maintenance to minimum. 30 year lifetime war-
ranty. See pg. 1
Hamlin Pools
Natural Setting Pools
Hamlin Pools is a family owned 3rd Generation business that has been building
pools in the valley since 1952. Our motto is and has always been “We Build
Pools For Fun!” Hamlin Pools boasts not one, but two APSP certied building
professionals on sta.  
Hamlin Pools built this swimming pool and spa in its natural setting and designed
both for swimming laps and family fun. This 24 foot wide by 72 foot long pool
features natural stones in the oor of the pool to serve as lanes for swimming
laps. The pool also features a large natural rock waterfall built out of mossy rock
boulders, a jumping rock with water owing o of it in place of a diving board,
and a beach landing with a agstone nish. The heated spa is large enough for
eight and the black quartz interior nish gives the pool and spa the eect of
innite depth. The in the oor cleaning system is a Pool Valet 3 system exclusive
to Hamlin Pools. The beautiful Oklahoma Flagstone rock decking highlights this
pool in its natural setting.
Hamlin Pools is proud to announce that this swimming pool won the prestigious
“Silver Award”in the International Awards of Excellence. We are also proud of the
fact that we always maintain an A+ rating with the BBB. See pg. 30
27
SUMMER 2010
Southern Stone
Natural Stone Waterfalls
Natural Stone Waterfalls are a way to add style and design to a pool, adding a focal
point as well as a functional part to the pool. The ow of water can act as a pool
pump, keeping water clean and owing, and can also oer swimmers a place to
interact physically with the fall of water. Natural Stone Pool waterfalls come in a
variety of shapes, sizes and designs, and can be custom-made according to the
pool owner’s specications.
With our specialization in stone  and our experience in  construction,  we have a
good understanding of the unique expectations of architects, landscapers, devel-
opers, contractors, and designers. 
At Southern Stone, we also enjoy helping do-it-yourselfers through dierent
stages of the project with guidance, referrals, and advice.
We specialize in stone, have a huge selection, pride ourselves on customer ser-
vice, and if that isn’t enough - ALL of our stone is quarry direct! That means that
our prices set us even further from the “competition.”Straight from the mountain
to your home in many cases - saving you time and money! See opposite page
Tropical Patios
Poolside Patio
This project began when the owners’ decided to add an exercise room on to their
house, which took up the existing patio area by the pool. They needed a new
pool-side patio that would complement the architecture of the house and be
useful to the family.
A covered pavilion reminiscent of a Mediterranean villa was built at the east end
of the pool area. The pavilion is open on three sides and has a solid wall on the
east side which allows the owners to place appropriate furniture for entertaining.
The columns were placed at an optimum distance for the hanging of hammocks
to enjoy on sunny afternoons. The pavilion oor, the balustrades, as well as the
front and back porches of the house were covered with the same architectural
concrete which was selected for the columns of the colonnade. Consistent with
the old-world Mediterranean style, the owners selected natural clay pavers for
the pool deck and sidewalks. The clay pavers were installed in the classic basket
weave pattern found in courtyards throughout Italy. Beginning with a base of
compacted sand, the clay pavers were carefully placed and then bordered with a
hidden concrete curb. This method of placing pavers on sand rather than mortar
dates back to the days of the Roman Empire. See opposite page
Sunset Living
Outdoor Furniture
Nowadays, people are decorating the outsides of their homes - their patios,
porches, gardens, pools and backyards - as an extension of their indoor living
space. This is accomplished most often with our lovely out door furniture.
Modern homeowners have extended their living spaces outside to enjoy the
sunshine, the fresh air, and the beautiful outdoor landscape. The outdoors is
a great place to start or end your day with a newspaper and a cup of coee,
or a friend and a nice chat. The outdoors is also the best venue for a summer
barbecue with a large group of friends. To better maximize your outdoor
living space, we oer you the right kind of outdoor patio furniture to suit your
lifestyle, space, taste and budget.
Our outdoor patio furniture can be exposed to the elements all throughout
the year - intense sunshine, torrential rains, gusty winds, and dust. Because of
this Sunset Living outdoor living furniture is made from sturdy, weather- and
wear-resistant material. Our furniture pieces range from outdoor dining sets,
sofa sets, coee tables, and lounge chairs. Stop on by and have a look, you’ll
be glad you did. See pg. 59
28 SUMMER 2010
29
SUMMER 2010
30 SUMMER 2010
Toll Free: 1-800-840-3894
www.hamlinpools.com
31
SUMMER 2010
32 SUMMER 2010
Upper Valley: 3801 W. US Hwy. 83 | McAllen | 956.661.1313
Mid Valley: 2401 W. Exp. 83 | Weslaco | 956.968.1300
Lower Valley: 4675 N. Exp. #A | Brownsville | 956.350.2585
Laredo Area: 1602 Calle del Norte | Laredo | 956.722.9696
Locations:
www.superiorgraniteandmarble.com
Superior Granite-Marble maintains elevated quality standards, and
enormous attention is devoted to product selection, planning,
processing and nish. Whether your project is a ve-star hotel, or a
kitchen remodel, our Design Experts work closely with homeowners,
architects, contractors and designers to provide comprehensive
solutions and service. Our success is based on quality control.
We are the largest slab wholesaler in South Texas. We enjoy helping our
clients select from our substantial inventory of granite, marble, slate,
travertine, limestone and onyx from India, Brazil, Portugal, Spain, Italy
and Turkey.
33
SUMMER 2010
Upper Valley: 3801 W. US Hwy. 83 | McAllen | 956.661.1313
Mid Valley: 2401 W. Exp. 83 | Weslaco | 956.968.1300
Lower Valley: 4675 N. Exp. #A | Brownsville | 956.350.2585
Laredo Area: 1602 Calle del Norte | Laredo | 956.722.9696
Locations:
www.superiorgraniteandmarble.com
Superior Granite-Marble maintains elevated quality standards, and
enormous attention is devoted to product selection, planning,
processing and nish. Whether your project is a ve-star hotel, or a
kitchen remodel, our Design Experts work closely with homeowners,
architects, contractors and designers to provide comprehensive
solutions and service. Our success is based on quality control.
We are the largest slab wholesaler in South Texas. We enjoy helping our
clients select from our substantial inventory of granite, marble, slate,
travertine, limestone and onyx from India, Brazil, Portugal, Spain, Italy
and Turkey.
BEFORE
Casa Remodel
The original house that sat on this
land was torn down approximately 17
years ago, and my client’s rst custom
home was built on this beautiful
lake side property. Preserving the
view was rst priority in the design
and building. I was asked to help
decorate and furnish the rst time
around. As the family grew, so did
the need to update the interior
nishes and arrangement of certain
areas to t their needs. An entire
remodeling project means decisions
on all facets of renovation such as
lighting, coloring, furnishing, and
is a demanding process for a home
owner. We helped them understand
the steps involved in the process and
tried to keep their everyday schedule
as close to normal as possible. Never
losing sight of the importance of the
lake view and its beauty, we began
with one side of the house and
worked our way south.
Next, we entered the elegant master
suite where we continued with the
large stacked 20” ceiling moulding,
which helped bring the high ceiling
down to a more visual height. The
main focal point of the room is a
massive handmade iron and crystal
chandelier that hangs from the center
of the room. The size is eight foot in
height and seven foot in width and
takes your breath away. Its beautiful
lights make all the crystals glisten
throughout the room. The iron
headboard was also custom made.
The windows and doors of the room
were covered with antiqued dyed
chenille fabrics on electronic rods that
can be opened and closed with the
touch of a button, all custom made
by Canali Interiors of McAllen. The
furnishings were reupholstered with
coordinating fabrics to compliment
all the rich new colors. The eect is a
warm, cozy and comfortable room,
the dening attributes of a home.
One of the biggest changes came in
the master bath area, and wow, does
it look great! We removed the Jacuzzi
tub since it was rarely used and was
taking up space. Then we moved a
few walls and enlarged the shower
to a very spacious area. The shower
has four rain ow heads in the ceiling,
a hand held wall shower and one
oversized standard shower. It is a walk
in area without doors. The ¾ walls
that look out to the magnicent lake
view oer privacy. Custom cabinets
have separate vanities and zebra
skinned benches for relaxing. There
is a beautiful handmade stained glass
piece by Glassica that compliments
the rich colors and textures of the
room. The lighting from the Light
House was the perfect match for the
mirrored areas and a coordinating
chandelier perched above the
owner’s makeup vanity was the icing
on the cake. As you walk around the
bath area you will pass through an
arched entry to a room that contains
beautiful glass door closets. In this
lighted area, behind the door, is a
collection of designer shoes with all
of kinds of “Bling”. Cinderella couldn’t
hold a candle to these shoes!
Finally we made our way to the
center of the house. When the large
double front doors open, the view
of the lake thru the magnicent
entry and living area is spectacular.
These areas are lled with textures
and colors stemming from a metal
tiled niche and old Chicago brick on
the walls and stairs. The walls were
also treated with an old plastered
look with a bronze glaze top coat.
Again the hand hewn wood oors
bring out the warm feeling and oer
the elegant look we wanted. The
furnishings were custom made in San
Antonio. The drapes that cascade on
the side of our two story windows
were the perfect nish to the room.
These were created with electronic
controls for easy closure. VHS design
has great condence and admiration
in Alejandra of Canali Interiors. Her
work is complete and professional
and always makes me proud.
The 20X20 porcelain oor runs from
the front entry to the galley area in
front of the bar, down the hall, and
throughout the kitchen. The new
wine cellar has the same tile oor
and the old Chicago brick on the
walls with an arched brick ceiling. Our
homeowners have a great collection
of wines, so creating this area with
a hand forged custom door was a
perfect look.
Second Time Around
McAllen, Texas
34 SUMMER 2010
Additions, completely redesigned &
remodeled by VHS Design.
Granite supplier, Superior Granite &
Marble.p32
Granite fabricator, Valley Granite.p38
Top left/right: Custom glass &
mirrors, Glassica.p58
Kitchen & bath xtures, Morrison.
pg37
Moulding, So. Texas Moulding.p62
Middle, lower right & next page:
Custom draperies, and bedding,
Canali Interiors.p36
We carried the brick thru out the
house creating arches, columns,
walls, and ceilings. This gives a feeling
of those old Tuscan homes that had
such wonderful textures in all areas.
This feeling is evident when passing
thru the arched brick entry from the
dining into the Butler’s Pantry and
kitchen. We created a groin type
ceiling with brick and an elegant
chandelier with crystals hanging in
the center. A Butler’s Pantry needed
for extra working space and display
of serving pieces was enlarged by
moving some walls and building a
beautiful arrangement of custom
cabinets. These have a blackened
and aged nish with doors of seeded
glass inserts. The cabinets have
ornate pulls and knobs, which added
the perfect touch throughout the
Butler’s Pantry and kitchen.
We opened the look of the kitchen by
completely changing the design and
layout of all the cabinets, appliances,
and plumbing xtures. That is called
a “complete gutting “of the area. The
same beautiful and classic mahogany
and maple cabinets were custom
made. We used a rich chestnut and
aged blackened stained look and
mixed it in dierent areas. We also
used two dierent colors of granite,
with the largest single slab of black
being used for the island.
The island measures ten feet by
six feet and has plenty of area
for everything involving eating,
prepping and serving. What a
Counter! The gas cook top and
other appliances for this job came
from Morrison’s of McAllen. One of
the focal points in the kitchen is the
hood over the cook top. The kitchen
sinks are hammered ¾” stainless tiles
that are under mounted , with black
Danze single bridge faucets, for the
plumbing xtures.
The stove vent was decorated with
pieces of 120 year old ceiling tiles and
a custom mesquite mantle. These
tiles were also used in a powder bath
ceiling and originally came from a
BEFORE
BEFORE BEFORE
BEFORE
BEFORE
35
SUMMER 2010
building belonging to the homeowner’s ancestors.
My carpenter created all this from my little sketches
on a tablet. He’s a true genius. My assistant Sarah
Lopez spent many hours helping me complete all
of my creations.
The young ballerina of the family got her own room
with antiques, a canopy bed, and plenty of storage
for all of her Barbies and friends. Cabinets were
accented with red crystal pulls. The wood oors
created a warm, rich feeling, and the drapes and
linens for her iron bed were custom made by Canali
Interiors. Her crystal chandelier, selected at the
Light House, gives the room a feminine and elegant
nish. We also created a beautiful “movie star”
closet with drapes and beads. She enters through
glass double doors with crystal door knobs.
The last addition to this remodel was to create a
new TV and family area. We did it… a beautiful
glassed addition with a replace, stone walls, and
wood beamed ceilings. It also contains a full bath
area with a kitchen for easy entertaining by mom,
dad and the kids. The area was also created for
ranch trophy mounts to be displayed and pictures
of all the fun time the family holds dear.
When my jobs come to a nal completion, the one
greatest compliment I enjoy the most is when my
clients tell me how much they love being in their
new home and how it has become their favorite
place in the world.
Contributing Writer: Vicki S. Penn
VHS Design
36 SUMMER 2010
W
I
n
d
o
w

F
a
s
h
I
o
n
s



C
e
r
t
I
I
I
e
d


P
r
o
I
e
s
s
I
o
n
a
I



E
x
c
e
I
I
e
n
t

C
r
a
I
t
s
m
a
n
s
h
I
p



P
r
e
c
I
s
e

Ì
n
s
t
a
I
I
a
t
I
o
n



N
a
m
e

8
r
a
n
d

P
r
o
d
u
c
t
s
1420 W. HaII Acres · Pharr
(956) 992·0333
draperystudIobycanaII.com
Custom DraperIes } MotorIzed 8IInds
Custom Shutters
I NTERI ORS
37
SUMMER 2010
38 SUMMER 2010
!"#$%&%'()*+,#&)!#"-#$.///
Valley’s only granite
fabricator using laser guided
gantry saw and CNC machine to
achieve precision seams and proles.
1oíí lree l-877-27l-9894
vvv.¡m-bíínds.com
\ood ßíínds - Vertícuí ßíínds - Sun Screen - Curtuíns - líuntutíon Shutters - Roííer Shudes
At }M Curtuín Desígner und ßíínds, ve desígn, buííd und ínstuíí
custom home shutters. }M cun buííd shutters to íít uny víndov or
door oí uny type or shupe und to mutch every home decor. ßecuuse
ve both munuíucture und ínstuíí our custom home shutters, ve
huve one oí the quíckest turn-uround tímes ín the índustry. }M hus
the best vorkmunshíp und the híghest quuííty customer servíce ín
the índustry. 1hut's the }M Curtuín Desígner und ßíínds Díííerence.
39
SUMMER 2010
1200 E. Expwy 83
(956) 971-1900 · McAllen
1405 FM 802
(956) 546-4262 · Brownsville
Bickley Script
!"#$%&'()$*+,-+.,#/&+0%12'-%1)+3,$$)1',4444
!"#$%&&'&()*&
+*,,%-)'*&.
/)#0/-1.2
3*4/56#7',,%5#/&6#!"#$%&&'&()*&#8/9%#:*'&%6#;*5-%.#)*#<5'&(#/&#
%=-')'&(#&%4#(5*>?#*;#?5*6>-).#)*#)8%#8*@%#;>5&'.8'&(.#@/51%)A
Master Plan & Design, Distinctive
Drafting.p42
Landscaping,Best Lawn Care.p42
Opposite: Pool by Hamlin
Pools,p30; Southern Hickory Patio
Stone by Southern Stone.p29
Opposite center right: Hand
Scraped wood oor, Lumber
Liquidators.p2; Minka-Lavery
chandelier, Light House Lighting
Center.p11; Dinning Set, Lacks.
p39; Custom Shutter, JM Curtains &
Blinds.p38; So.Texas Molding.p62
Opposite bottom: Cantera replace
and colums, Cantera Rancho Alegre.
p46
A Friendly Match
Harlingen, Texas
A truly dramatic, elegant exterior
only gives a hint of the captivating
design and wonderful fow of this
estate Mediterranean home. As
beautiful from the rear as from
the front, this home features a
spectacular blend of arch topped
windows, French doors, exposed
cedar beams, intricate ceiling
designs, marble foors and cantera
balusters. The 10-foot tall double
door entry leads to the grand
foyer. Stone columns and archways
grace the view of the inviting pool
and lush landscaping through the
formal living room. A rambling
veranda and loggia connects to a
charming guest house at the rear
of the main structure. This outdoor
area is punctuated by Tuscan
columns and arched framework to
lend an air of exotic, resort-style
living. A two-story ceiling, stunning
stone freplace, spiral staircase,
and oversized windows makes this
home a pleasure to live in with vast
opportunities for intimate relaxing
and entertaining.
From the moment that you enter
the private driveway and approach
the main gate, this home welcomes
you and treats you to the beauty
of the orchards and native palm
trees that surround this magnifcent
property. But this is just the
beginning. As you make your way
past the gate, the initial glimpses
of this home are captivating and
make you feel as if something
special is about to happen. Ìt is an
eye-popping mixture of shapes and
textures. Tall, narrow, arch topped
windows alongside Moorish-
shaped niches are punctuated by
roofine corbels and decorative
moulding grillwork. The stone-
accented circular driveway adds
to the endless excitement and
stimulates all the senses. Ìt is a
feeling that prepares you to be
dazzled and inspired.
Luxury Living
40 SUMMER 2010
With over 10,000 square feet under
roof, this home offers a new and
fresh living environment, not only
blending the Mediterranean details,
but also incorporating all the
personal custom features dictated
by the owner's lifestyle. Here you
will fnd not only the expected but
also the unexpected; a game of
racquetball...inside the home...
in its attached regulation-size
racquetball court. Have a work
out in its fully outftted gym, with
a relaxing sauna bath right in the
next room. Enjoy the media room,
where the whole family can gather
and watch their favorite movie.
A grand kitchen, outftted for the
most demanding chef is also a
simply wonderful place to just hang
out. A loggia and courtyard that
harmonizes indoor and outdoor
living spaces and pallets of color
and texture throughout each room
add to the ambiance.
Ìn the end, the result is a truly
Mediterranean design, embracing
and showcasing classic elements
such as stucco walls, rounded
vertical windows, and a low
pitched, barrel tile roof line. Ìt is
a cutting edge home, with lots of
passion and personality, coupled
with modern day needs for easy
fow and high function. Ìt combines
state of the art ideas, design, and a
style that makes it uniquely its own,
and ultimately highly personal and
individual as its owners!
Contributing Writer: Frank Del Angel
41
SUMMER 2010
42 SUMMER 2010
43
SUMMER 2010
Fiberglass and Wood Doors
Construction and Design by
Design Group 692.p47
Above: Black Forest granite
countertops,Premier Granite &
Marble.p46; Glenview interior
doors, Door & Window Shop.p43
Select furniture pieces by
Designer’s Showroom,p51
Lumber Liquidators(p2) rich
hand scraped distressed wood
cover the oors, while broad
hardwood moulding from So.
Texas Moulding(p62) disguise
every seam.
Sandy, Smart and Savvy
South Padre Island, Texas
This barrier island wedged between
the Gulf of Mexico & The Laguna
Madre has developed into a seaside
haven for nature lovers.
Sea turtles, dolphins, Brown
Pelicans, tropical birds, and
butteries adorn the sand beaches
and environs.
With this picture in mind, we
developed a beach house for
a family of six that not only
incorporated all amenities, but 21
st

century energy producers and high
tech energy saving devices.
For starters we needed to design a
hurricane resistant structure which
included concrete reinforced pilings
extending 18 feet below street level.
Structural members above ground
had to be re-in forced to withstand
winds in excess of 130 mph. This
included windows, doors, roong,
and siding.
Space was needed for two vehicles,
a boat, pool and dressing room, and
concrete drive with landscaping.
The lot is standard size for the
Island, which necessitated vertical
planning and construction.
Design Features:
Under roof parking for two vehicles
and a storage area for a boat,
household tools, and miscellaneous
household eects, is cleverly built
in.
Adequate open space exists for
entertaining guests, family time,
and general day to day living.
Natural light adorns every nook
and cranny throughout the entire
residence.
A Kitchen with center island as
a focal point is large enough to
accommodate all ultra-deluxe
appliances and oer comfortable
seating for everyone.
Sleeping quarters for the family
are located on oor number three,
including master bedroom and
bath, three smaller bedrooms, and
bath for the children.
There is a guest room and bath
adjacent to the kitchen and a
Luxury Living
44 SUMMER 2010
terrace with stairs that oers access
to the pool level.
The “Crow’s nest” (or Loft) is roof
level with a beautiful view of the
ocean. This serene spot is an adult
retreat created for quiet time and
relaxation after a busy day.
In planning this project, we called
upon decorative features found in
the Mediterranean.
Artful duplication of native stone
adorns the façade and brown/
taupe tones accent the symmetrical
design.
The wide use of natural light oods
in through countless windows and
glass doors.
Extensive use of terraces assures
pleasant ocean breezes day or night.
All gathering places in the residence
are adorned with unique lighting
xtures, plumbing styles, wood trim,
striking colors, and a multitude of
unusual tile and granite are visible
throughout.
Construction Highlights:
The foundation and all bearing
components including cement
block are reinforced with iron
bars held in place with heavy duty
concrete. (Visualize a 50’ giant
strong enough to lift this building.
It would be possible to raise one
corner and the entire residence
would lift intact o the ground
because all the construction
members are tied together.)
Windows and doors are
manufactured to withstand
hurricane force winds up to 130
MPH.
The aluminum roof and all other
outside components are either
painted or treated to withstand
tropical sun and salt exposure.
Polyurethane foam insulation
guarantees cool summer and
warm winter operation of the A/C
units, foam also seals any and all
imperfections in building materials.
Water on Hot shot is Tankless. (No
waiting for hot water. Just turn to
on…and there it is.) No electricity is
wasted running a hot water heater.
Wind turbine and solar panels
generate enough power to store
energy in a battery pack. Power
outages are not something that will
aect this dwelling.
The salt water pool is free of chlorine
and self cleaning as well.
All electrical functions are digitally
controlled. A timer is set for
anything electrical, either OFF or
ON. No Fuss….No Muss.
Quietly nestled on a barrier island
wedged between the Gulf of
Mexico & The Laguna Madre stands
a wonderfully built smart house. A
testament that beauty can be more
than skin deep.
45
SUMMER 2010
46 SUMMER 2010
47
SUMMER 2010
&
Designers
Builders...
of distinctive homes.
!"#$%&'%()*+',-.
()/"(0)'123"&4$2
5566'"7'89:;7'#:7
/<=>?@ABCCDE'0F
G-H,I'H69JK858
G-H,I'H,8J6899
G-H,I'H98JK58K
<ALCD?MBLNOD@BP?P<=QR,-.7M=S
ALCD?MHNL=C7M=S
>>>7OD@BP?P<=QR,-.7M=S
!!
1000 Pablo Garcia
Entertaining is a must in this home. From the moment you enter the grand
foyer you are greeted with elegance throughout. A few features are the formal
dining room, formal living room, oce, and family room. The stylish formal
dining room is pleasing to the eye with oor to ceiling windows and rustic
chandelier. The kitchen boasts of long granite countertops, a substantial area
for the cook, and a subzero refrigerator. The master suite is a private get-a-
way with a sitting area, private wet bar, and decorative ceilings. The luxury
whirlpool features cantera columns and a smoky glass window. Sitting on
the large, covered back patio is very inviting for relaxing evenings. This home
boasts of travertine tile, red oak stairs lead up to the media room, intercom
system, security system, and surround sound. In this home you will be
surrounded by luxury and beauty which are all mandatory features in a home
built by Garcia Builders and Development.
OFFERED AT $485,000
INQUIRIES
RE/MAX Lone Star Team Select
315 E Jackson St
Harlingen, Texas 78550
956-428-9900
www.teamselect.remax-texas.com
Virtual Tour - http://magazine.oledecor.com/vt/mls41711
Sally Smith
(956) 867-2965
[email protected]
48 SUMMER 2010
15081 Sparrow Rd
Country done classy.
Just north of Mexico near the southern tip of Texas and minutes from
South Padre Island, is 15081 Sparrow Rd in the Harlingen area known
for its laid-back blend of South Texas charm and the rich cultural
traditions of Mexico.
Designated a Certified Retirement Community by the state of Texas,
Harlingen boasts a low cost of living, year-round sports and is the
health care heart of the Valley.
With mild, tropical winters and constant summer sea breezes
off the Gulf of Mexico allow you to enjoy year-round outdoor activities
and sports. Harlingen has 556 acres of parks and recreation featuring
soccer, softball, tennis, baseball, swimming, playgrounds, picnic areas,
hike/bike trail, nature parks and lakes.
Golfers can enjoy year-round play with private and public courses
around Harlingen and the surrounding communities.
Within this beautiful city lies an amazing home offering a
touch of class in a country setting. The gourmet kitchen is the very
heart of this elegant country home. The formal dining and living
rooms, a warm and inviting den, and breakfast nook all flow from
the kitchen. The wet bar area and walk in pantry are positioned for
your entertainment needs. The master suite offers plenty of room
for adding a quiet sitting area for relaxing. Room is abundant in the
master bath which features a large whirlpool tub, separate shower
and two walk-in closets. The split floor plan allows for privacy and
tranquility. A bonus room upstairs is large enough for a pool table,
exercise equipment or to make it your own media room. Whether your
pleasure is riding horses or four wheelers, the three acres provides the
ideal place for these activities. Cross-fencing and an open shed for the
animals with closed tractor storage provides for the perfect country
setting. Granite counters, crown mouldings, elegant tile floors, and
even a hot tub complete the picture for this welcoming home.
OFFERED AT $359,900
INQUIRIES
RE/MAX Lone Star Team Select
315 E Jackson St
Harlingen, Texas 78550
956-428-9900
www.teamselect.remax-texas.com
Virtual Tour - http://magazine.oledecor.com/vt/mls41621
Sarah Kulungowski
956-245-9719
[email protected]
49
SUMMER 2010
50 SUMMER 2010
51
SUMMER 2010
Indoor Living
!"#$%&"'%"(()*$
Home Theater by denition is: audio and video equipment
designed to reproduce in the home the experience of being in
a movie theater. But in reality is much more than that; it is a
special area in the house that everybody likes and enjoys.
This area in the house is your own personalized movie
theatre where you decide who becomes part of your VIP
guest list.
Building this enjoy-it-all family and friend’s room is not
as expensive as you might think, but it does require
some planning. Here is a list of things that you should
consider when planning this area.
Begin by making a sketch of the area that will become
your Home Theatre; garages and unused rooms are
great choices. Once you have decided on the proper
area, measure it. Include the dimensions of the room in
your sketch, this will provide a clear view of where your
audience will sit in relation to the screen. To determine the
right distance use this formula:
size of the screen (width) x ratio = optimal seating distance
Media Resolution Ratio Type of media
1080p 1:5 Blu-ray
1080i 1:7 High DenitionTV
720p 2.0 StandardTV
The distance from your projector is very relevant because you
never want to be too close to the screen. The optimal seating
52 SUMMER 2010
position will create an unforgettable and
enjoyable experience.
This brings us to the next point; illumination.
Just as in a movie theatre, avoid windows
or any other source of natural light. It is
recommended to have dimmers so that
you can control the amount of light in
which you feel comfortable and still get
the highest quality image.
Next are the acoustical properties of the
room.
Geometrical form: Rectangle is always
better than square and domes are not very
welcomed because they distort the sound
waves’ path. If your room does not have
the perfect shape don’t worry because you
can make use of acoustic panels, placed
where needed, to re-route the sound
waves to the seating area. Another option
to help contain the sound is to add a ber
optic panel to you ceiling. This will not only
help with the acoustics of the room but it
will give a beautiful starry night eect.
Flooring: Carpet is recommended over all
other options because it reduces sound
reection and ensures proper sound
absorption. The density of the carpet is a
factor to consider. The thicker the carpet
and padding the better sound absorption
you will get.
Ceilings: Standard height between 8 ft
to 10 ft is preferred because of two main
reasons:
1. The higher the ceiling the more power
and you will need to ll the room with
audio. In other words, if the area is open the
sound waves have to travel further.
2. If you want to use a projector, you will
need an extension pole to adjust to the
screen height and to the viewers’ eyesight.
Extension poles are basically a tube that
allows the projector to be mounted at any
height but the pole is not invisible and you
need to consider how you make it part of
the decor.
3. A great picture needs to be
accompanied with great sound for the
ultimate experience. For the real theater
experience, you need a center channel,
Opposite top/bottom left: Helping leading men Brad Pit & your friendly
neighborhood Spiderman look a little better, Home Entertainment.p50
Center: In the theater room is a 103 inch SI Black diamond screen with
JVC DLA-RS2 home cinema 1080P HD projector that boasts a 30,000:1
contrast ratio. This high resolution image is incomplete without the a
Marantz 7.1 - 135X7 watt system to output it’s crisp sound to the Niles
Stage Front speakers and the awesome bass pumping subwoofer.
Below:Elegant red room, theater seating, and the latest in home audio/
video makes every movie a hit, MCJ Builders.p24
left and right fronts accompanied with
rear surrounds and denitely a sub. The
larger the room the bigger the speakers
and the more power is needed. For
bigger rooms, it is always recommended
to utilize two subwoofers and a receiver
or an amplier with a processor for
optimal performance. Remember, a
theater is the ultimate place to unwind,
relax and entertain.
Two things that are usually overlooked
are proper ventilation and calibration.
Proper ventilation for both the viewers
and the home theater components is
very important because equipment will
generate heat. A well ventilated room
will optimize the life of the equipment
and the movie experience.
Finally, calibration is the most important
aspect of theater room. A well calibrated
room will enhance the total audio and
video experience creating an ultra real
picture and detail sound. This will
eliminate distortion and imperfections
in the picture.
With a careful plan, the right equipment,
and a few good guidelines to follow,
building your own home theater will
be a fun and exciting project, providing
years of real theater enjoyment right at
home.
Contributing Writer: Selene Diaz
53
SUMMER 2010
54 SUMMER 2010
Dear Ole Décor Reader,
NIU urban living & Casa Antigua
are full service interior design
showrooms delivering cutting edge
contemporary home furnishings and
interior design services to fulll your
innermost decorative needs.
We strive to provide the very best
modern home furnishings and create
stunning environments for our clients.
We invite you to explore your inner-self
at our showrooms.
Come and enjoy special attention
with immediate delivery.
www.casaantiguainc.com
design:
mario villela
956.562.1275
Located at:
920 N. Main St. in McAllen, TX
Ph. 956.664.2333
1631 N. 10th St. in McAllen, TX
Ph. 956.664.2999
C
H
R
I
S
T
O
P
H
E
R

G
U
Y
In a World of Imitations, these are the Genuine Articles.
55
SUMMER 2010
Sorteo Tec
56 SUMMER 2010
Un sutil equilibrio entre la fuerza y sobriedad de la tradición mexicana, con
un cierto aire minimalista, es algo que podemos encontrar en las nuevas
Casas del Tec. Cuando se piensa en un hogar, deseamos que sea ese lugar en
donde disfrutemos de momentos de convivencia, relax y confort; “Hoy en día
las personas tienen un ritmo de vida muy acelerado, esta casa esta precisamente
diseñada como un remanso de paz que te calma, te desacelera y tranquiliza,
cada una de las áreas busca esa objetivo”. Según nos describe el Arquitecto
Tito Camargo Hijar quien estuvo a cargo del proyecto del primer premio y
que se dene así mismo como un entusiasta admirador de la arquitectura
contemporánea, por tanto obvia la etiqueta de “estilo”, ya que según sus
propias palabras “hablar de estilo, es precisamente hablar de un romance
pasajero que no responde a la época en que se esta viviendo”.
Podemos entonces describir esta residencia como una casa atemporal que
se niega a perecer ante los caprichos de la moda actual, la cual pretende
evolucionar para continuar otorgando los benecios fundamentales bajo
los que fue concebida y que gracias a su capacidad camaleónica pueda
pertenecer a cualquier persona, convirtiéndose en la casa de los sueños de
quien resulte el afortunado ganador.
Ambos proyectos poseen un sin n de elementos estéticos que exaltan su
belleza, como punto primordial en la residencia del primer premio, podemos
realzar la fachada de cristal, la fuente de espejo que conduce a la enorme
e impactante puerta principal de madera, terrarios y fuentes interiores, la
terraza con alberca poseedora de una confortable área social, un pasillo tipo
puente en la segunda planta que distribuye a recamaras, estancia y a una
espectacular terraza elevada que encanta a la vista; por si fuera poco se logra
también la anhelada sensación acogedora provista por el acertado diseño
interior, el cual se asocia de bella manera regalando un “algo” especial a cada
espacio sin resultar invasivo, brinda vida mediante elementos eclécticos,
naturales, rústicos y de buen gusto. Similares características encontramos
en la residencia del segundo premio, en la que la luminosidad, amplitud,
funcionalidad e integración de los espacios, son los principales ejes del
diseño. Así es como Sorteo Tec nuevamente marca diferencia en cuanto
a diseño, estilo e innovación tecnológica al servicio del confort, todo esto
aunado al buen gusto que le caracteriza a las Casas del Tec.
Es así como después de 62 años Sorteo Tec le invita a seguir colaborando con
nosotros para mantener el sueño de miles de jóvenes que luchan por una
educación de calidad mediante becas, infraestructura, apoyo a proyectos
sociales e investigación cientíca, lo cual dará como resultado un México
mejor.
De antemano Sorteo Tec agradece de todo corazón a compradores y
colaboradores voluntarios que aportan su esfuerzo para que todo esto sea
una realidad y los invita a que sigan participando, por que con Sorteo Tec
todos ganan.
Recámaras
Se aprecia un gran diseño interior que logra crear espacios pulcros,
sumamente amplios y armoniosamente equilibrados, otorgando la sensación
de comodidad y un balance perfecto entre matices, texturas y dimensiones
que nunca intereren con las proporciones del proyecto arquitectónico, sino
que le dan vida.
En este caso todas las recamaras tienen ventanales con vista a la terraza
posterior donde se aprecia el jardín y la alberca.
Áreas Sociales
Fluidez es la palabra que describe la manera en como se transita por la
residencia; una estructura sin complicaciones que permite apreciar la
distribución del recinto y cada área da paso a la siguiente, donde todas gozan
de la luminosidad que brindan los vitrales frontales y posteriores, que gracias
a estos se obtienen beneciosos ahorros en cuanto a consumo de energía
eléctrica y gas, debido a que proveen de iluminación gran parte del día y
mantienen además, la temperatura agradable dentro de la casa, una de tantas
bondades tecnológicas con que cuenta las bellas Casas del Tec.
Exteriores
Se nota una perfecta complicidad entre los materiales de construcción (metal,
cristal y concreto) y los elementos naturales que aparecen recurrentemente en
todo el recinto (agua, maderas y piedra). El resultado es un recinto equilibrado
en el que interior y exterior entran en comunión, siendo estos últimos puntos
de reunión focales para el goce y disfrute un escape del caótico día a día.
TEXTOS GDL
Carácter único y personalidad, poseen las áreas de esta magnica residencia,
pero cuenta con variables especícas que cumplen la función de “hilo
conductor” entre ellas, puede ser un color o forma, un material recurrente o
simplemente una textura que ayude a combinar los espacios.
La formalidad y distinción, sin dejar de lado la línea contemporánea de
su diseño arquitectónico caracteriza a este recinto, donde se procuraron
conceptos para cada área, otorgando un aire “romántico” a la recamara de
jovencitas, un sentido “práctico” a la de jóvenes, de sosticación a la principal
y de amplitud y calidez a las áreas de convivencia.
TEXTOS Pto. VALLARTA
Puntos de color mediante texturas, maderas obscuras y
textiles, avivan los fondos blancos que prevalecen en este
increíble departamento, donde cada mueble, cada objeto
tiene su función denida sin importunar algún otro.
Formas simples y puras, dando gran importancia al espacio, una excelente
opción para espíritus innovadores que desean un toque de contemporaneidad,
resulta un gran aliado para personas que disfrutan de los espacios relajados.
Un paraíso mexicano, donde es posible disfrutar la mezcla de bellísimos
escenarios naturales y bellas playas, logran armonía con el auténtico sabor de
un pueblo típico mexicano.
Lucky Number 181
COMFORT, RELAX Y FUNCIONALIDAD… EL HOGAR IDEAL
57
SUMMER 2010
58 SUMMER 2010
www.craIgsIurnItureonIIne.com
www.howardmIIIer.com
HarIIngen
712 W. HarrIson
423.0090
WesIaco
2929 W. Exp. 83
968.8600
!"#$%&'%$()*'+),-..+/)&%$0+)1234
<RXGRQ·WRZQD FIoor CIock.
You guard It Ior the next generatIon.
59
SUMMER 2010
Fine Art
Artline America Inc.
McAllen | 956.630.0076
Jackie’s gallery is called Artline America, and a
typical gallery it is not! Step into an eclectic array
of paintings, tapestries, and framed shadow boxes
lled with various objects d’arte. Bring in your
own treasure, and choose from over 1,000 custom
framing possibilities. If you can’t make up your
mind right away, think about your choices over a
delicious home cooked lunch at the Masterpiece
Café. Artwork surrounds you as quiet jazz music
plays in the background. Jackie’s laughter will
be heard as she spends time tableside talking
with any one of her loyal customers, enjoying the
afternoon at her restaurant and gallery. One visit
to this special place and you’ll go out of your way
to come back.
Port Isabel Great Rooms
Port Isabel | 956.943.2629
ART+DKOR es una galeria donde el arte y Featuring
a unique collection of decorative and ne art pieces
custom selected by DINAH BOWMAN. Large
handcarved local shes, limited edition prints and
originals of seaside themed paintings.
Featured artists include the award winning oils
of Larry Felder. Shrimp boats, wharf scenes, Port
Isabel Lighthouse, and local birds of the beach
are photographically painted by this extremely
talented artist. ROBERT RUHMAN brings his vibrant
watercolors of palm trees coastal scenes of the jetty
and beach and the water birds found there, tropical
gardens and gates, and classic still lifes. Everytime
you visit us you will see somethig new and dierent!
House of Frames
Harlingen | 423.8282
This year the House of Frames celebrates it’s 43rd year
serving the Harlingen and surrounding Cameron
County areas. We are proud to have Alice Keener
still with us through all those years. House of Frames
Mission statements to serve our community with all
we’ve got in exceptional and lasting frame design!
Judy is our all-around-handle-everything-person
and a wonderful framer to work with out front. She
and Alice really make things happen around here!
Over the years, we have trained many students that
have gone on to be framers in other areas of the
country another mission of the House of Frames
to educated and empower people to succeed and
excel in the framing industry. Stop by and visit us I’ve
always said that the best part of ANY framing job is
out front with the customer!
60 SUMMER 2010
&!
SUMMER 2010
62 SUMMER 2010
63
SUMMER 2010
64 SUMMER 2010
JC Cervantes,
PANGEA Floor Coverings