You will learn which materials are most suitable for your design. Often a slightly more expensive material will have the lowest maintainence  cost. Because you are saving on labor, you are able to invest in higher quality materials. You may upgrade from plastic laminate to wood, from ceramic tile to stone or from vinyl to wood flooring. These materials get richer and more beautiful over time, require less maintenance and last longer. You will learn the correct way to install materials which prevents premature degration. Green materials and methods are stressed. We consider not only the immediate costs of the job but the lifecycle costs and carbon footprint. When possible, natural materials are encouraged. Our "green is good" approach stresses
sources from sustainable sources, low VOC finishes and energy conservation.


Mellor River House , MD - locally milled cypress wood siding (27 years after installation)(Robert Gatje - Marcel Breur Architects NYC)