Custom Home Upgrades to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Consumer waste comes in large part from our houses. Whether it’s food waste, constant A/C in the summer, or a leaky sink, there are plenty of upgrades you can do to help the planet. Adopting a DIY approach means you make sure everything you add is eco-friendly, all while letting you design your home exactly the way you want it. Here are some ways creative homeowners are helping the environment with custom upgrades.

1. Energy Efficient Appliances

Did you know your stove might be costing you too much on your electric bill? Unless your appliances are certified Energy Star, they’re using more than their fair share of electricity. When you replace your old units, consider looking for an eco-friendly model.

2. Solar Lights

These are hot right now – they store energy during the day and power on during the night. They’re a great alternative to electric lights, offering an accent to your exterior and saving you some money, while helping the planet too.

3. Insulated Doors

This might come as a surprise, but your door is probably the second biggest reason your air conditioning is on so much. Unless your door is fiberglass or insulated wood it’s constantly letting in the heat – especially if it’s in the sun!

4. Insulation

Speaking of insulation, when was the last time you replaced yours? It’s not just for keeping the heat in during cold months, without good insulation, your walls aren’t protected from the hot weather either.

5. Native Gardening

An innovative trend is hitting the world of gardening. Instead of growing pristine, traditional grass lawns, some homeowners are focusing on cultivating native species of plants that don’t require as much water. Depending on rainfall, this can mean anything from native flowers and trees, to abandoning grass altogether in favor of succulents like cacti.

6. LED Lights

We all know fluorescent lights are better than traditional bulbs, but what about LED? It turns out, they’re also a great choice for a low-energy light in your home.

If you’re looking to build your dream home, look no further than architectural designer Tony McClung. Tony’s portfolio includes over 50 years of Texas, Colorado, and New Mexico’s finest designer homes. Contact Tony to start making your dream into a reality.

5 Custom Home Features for Blended Indoor/Outdoor Spaces

The end of summer/start of fall is a great time to be outside – the Texas sun isn't quite so hot but the days are still long enough to enjoy time outdoors after school ends for the day. It’s perfect for family time – except for all the mosquitos of course. Sometimes, you just want to enjoy the beautiful outside view but in the comfort of A/C without the bugs. You’re not alone, blending the indoor/outdoor spaces of your home is big in the design world. Whether you already planned for it, or are just considering, these are some great ways to incorporate this trend into an upcoming remodel.

1. Floor to Ceiling Windows

Windows are great – they offer a scenic view, and let in plenty of natural light. What better way to let in more light – and thereby more of a view – than with bigger windows? Floor-to-ceiling windows are big in the design of sunrooms and blended space, as they blur the line between inside and outside.

2. Sunrooms

Whether a cozy breakfast nook or living room, surrounding a room with windows provides a scenic view all from the comfort of the indoors.

3. Glass Doors

The classic French door is an excellent choice for letting in natural light. Did you know they also make sliding versions? A sliding glass door is a great way to maximize natural light, while still keeping a barrier between you and the outside world.

4. Intimate Patios

If you like dining outside, but aren’t a big fan of spending too much time outdoors, you can landscape your patio for a quaint, intimate feel. By keeping the space compact and close to the back door – along with weatherproof furniture of course – you can have the charm of an outdoor dining space on your patio, without getting too close to the bugs.

5. Walls and Patterns

If your wall needs a fresh coat of paint, consider an old classic that’s coming back: wallpaper. Floral and tropical prints are big in interior design this year and for a low-intensity upgrade, adding a palm tree pattern to your rooms can give you the look of the outside, without the time of a full remodel.

If you’re looking to build your dream home, look no further than architectural designer Tony McClung. Tony’s portfolio includes over 50 years of Texas, Colorado, and New Mexico’s finest designer homes. Contact Tony McClung to start enjoying more of the Texas, comfortably!

Tony McClung - Custom Home Builders & Designers - Dallas TX

6 Interior Design Trends That Are Hotter Than A Texas Summer

Pastel kitchen appliances have made a major comeback. Image Source: toriejayne.com

This year’s hottest trends are right in time for the summer. From bold, gelato colors, to a taste of the tropics in your living room, this summer’s interior design trends are scorching hot. Here are some of Summer 2018’s hottest design trends.

1. Pastels

From soft but vibrant pink, to deep, elegant purples, designers love these ice-cream inspired styles. Even more popular is complementing these soft but bold colors with a matte, or white background. The best way to keep ‘cool’ this summer is with these hot colors and patterns.

2. Taste of the Tropics

From foliage and florals, all the way to pineapple motifs, one thing’s for sure: the tropics are in. In your home that is! Designers nationwide seem to be taking inspiration from the heat and humidity and bringing the jungle inside your home. Set your clocks to island time with these themes.

3. Metal Fringe

Brass, gold, chrome and more! From finishes, to fixtures, and all the way to fringes, metallic motifs are here to add a glittery glow to your home. Brass in particular is riding high on the waves of summer 2018.

4. Ornamentation

Minimalism is not the hottest ticket this summer. Instead, it’s rich and diverse textures and accents. Checkered patterns for your textiles, and bold rattan and wicker furniture are some of the biggest names this year. In 2018, it’s all about the statement piece.

5. Floral Themes

Interior design seems to be taking a lot of inspiration from the beautiful outdoors right now, mostly with bold new floral designs. Prints and motifs are incorporating floral elements all over.

6. Indoor/Outdoor Integration

Take advantage of the summer weather by designing your outdoor space as an indoor, or vice versa. Natural light, texture, and materials all combine to turn a living room into a patio, and by bringing the patio indoors.

Designed and built by Tony McClung

If you’re looking to build your dream home, look no further than architectural designer Tony McClung. Taking immense pride in his craft, Tony’s portfolio includes over 50 years of Texas, Colorado, and New Mexico’s finest luxury custom homes. Contact Tony McClung to start making your dream a reality.

An Interview with Cathryn Withrow on her Recent Condo Remodel

How did you choose Tony McClung to be the architectural designer for your remodel?

Tony’s wife, Jeanne McClung, was my college roommate. I have always loved Tony’s designs and longed to have him design my home as well. When the time finally came where I needed a renovation of my condo, I jumped at the chance to have Tony design the space. The outcome was more than I could have imagined. I got my dream! It is just so beautiful and both me and Tony are so happy with the outcome.

I have always wanted a Tony McClung house because I love what he does. When I had the opportunity to renovate my entire condo, I thought it would just be paint and carpet, but as we got in, we realized there was a lot more to it – it became a floor to ceiling remodel! He was able to get in and solve these situations that were new for both of us. But he took 1 step at a time and solved everything.

Tell us more about your experience working with Tony McClung.

Tony did EVERYTHING for me! He was my contractor and brought along all of these incredible sub-contractors that have worked for him for years. They are all just top of the line, skilled experts so you don’t have to worry one bit. The trust factor of having these people in your home is a huge relief - Tony is 100% trustworthy and so are the people working with him.

Luxury Homes Designed and Built by Tony McClung has been in business for 40 years, and that is a testament to how skilled he is. Not only his skill and his knowledge of the business, but also his personality. Tony gets along with everyone so well, is very easy to work with and just a fine person. He took all the stress, concerns away from me and so it made for a very successful project. It was just amazing all he did for our family! It was just such a great and wonderful experience to work with him. My condo is so beautiful, and I am just so happy.

Where is your condo located?

We live in Highland Park, TX, a part of Dallas, TX.  I just want to spread the word on how great he is. He solved so many quirky problems that my home presented and did a complete remodel from floor to ceiling. I am so pleased with him and my home.

How long did your remodel take?

It took a year and 3 months. If something were to go wrong, it did…but Tony took care of everything – permits, contractors, etc. Tony knew how to handle everything and where to go. He was so great to working with so many various people. Quite a professional, he handled everything! And most important, he took all the stress off of me.

Did any other teams work with Tony to complete your remodel?

We had an interior designer that also worked alongside Tony in the remodel. Tony has such great taste that he was even able to give some guidelines that helped the interior designer! Tony was in the middle of the remodel from top to bottom. If a team was working, he was there and was fully involved. He doesn’t miss a thing!

If you were to remodel again, would you use Tony McClung?

I feel so fortunate to have had Tony McClung design the remodel of my condo. If I were to go through another project, I would absolutely have to use Tony –  I just don’t know how I could do it without him!

How to Build the House of Your Dreams (No, Really)

Building a home can seem like an overwhelming concept. How can you get what you want, while still remaining within your budget? It may take some know-how, but building a custom home is more affordable than you think. With the right approach, you can build the home of your dreams without making any major sacrifices. Follow these steps to build the perfect home:

Consider the Land

Do you want to live in Highland Park or do you want more land in Preston Hollow? What about the Lake Highlands school district or on White Rock Lake in Lakewood? Any custom home build should begin with deciding on a piece of land. Prospective homeowners have several considerations when deciding where to build their new home: the neighborhood and school system, access to amenities, and land features like trees or streams all weigh differently depending on your individual preferences. Homeowners also have the option of tearing down an existing home to build on a coveted piece of land.

Your home builder can help you with this part of the process, as often professionals have access to land plots that have yet to go on the public market. Rather than finding a piece of land, then calling an architect, call an architectural design team first. They can provide valuable insight to zoning laws, available properties, and more.

Decide on Your Budget

A custom home designer or architectural designer can help you decide where your home budget should go. For example, kitchens can range from a $5,000 Ikea model to $60,000 for custom cabinetry alone. If all high-end furnishings in a kitchen are a must-have, be prepared to use middle-range options in other areas of the home. Your home design team can provide you with low, middle, and high-end options during the building process, so you can decide exactly where you want to spend your money.

Be Prepared for a Time Commitment

If you want to build the home of your dreams, you must be prepared to be actively involved in the process. Custom home builds take an average of 12 to 18 months, and your input is invaluable to the process. The nice thing about custom homes is that you can spend $20,000 on appliances or over $100,000 – it all depends on your preferences and budget. By being actively involved in the decision-making process, you can ensure that you’re getting the home you want – while staying within a comfortable price point.

Custom home building is not as expensive or difficult as you might think. By taking some simple steps in the planning phases and remaining actively involved during construction, you’ll be in the home of your dreams before you know it. For more information on the custom home building process, contact Tony McClung today

Sick of the Modern Farmhouse? Try One of These Custom Home Builds Instead

Chip and Joanna Gaines have been at the forefront of home design in recent years. Go into any mainstream home improvement store, and you’ll see shiplap, reclaimed wood inspired designs, and neutral color palettes by the wheel. The trend goes by many different names: “farmhouse,” “rustic modern,” and “barn-inspired” are all versions of the same thing. While these trends may be dominating the mainstream, they’re not for everyone. With Fixer Upper coming to an end on HGTV and if you’re looking for some new home design trends, start with one of these custom home designs – no shiplap required:

Goodbye White, Hello Rich Natural Color

The white farmhouse sink has become a staple in many homes. Farmhouse sinks have clear advantages – their sheer volume can hold a party’s worth of dishes or double as a bathtub for a squirmy toddler or pet. If you like the functionality of a farmhouse sink but yearn for something other than stark white accents and cabinetry, there’s welcome news. Today’s sinks have the power of a farmhouse but come in high end materials like granite and copper to bring a touch of warmth into your kitchen.

For backsplash, say goodbye to shiplap and reclaimed barn wood for higher-end finishes like faux brick, copper plates, and tiles that create colorful geometric patterns. Color has a place in your kitchen once more.

Bedrooms Are for Relaxing

If you don’t like the lodge appeal of a modern farmhouse bedroom, there’s a way to create a casual, modern space without the use of  rustic modern elements. Today’s bedrooms are losing the “rustic” and simply going modern, with details like millwork, which creates visual appeal. Today’s bedrooms also come in calming hues like light blue and come loaded with smart features like home monitoring that provide peace of mind.

Modern Florals

Bold floral designs are replacing the neutrals and burlap aesthetic so readily associated with modern farmhouse style. Don’t be afraid to incorporate florals into your home – today’s designs don’t emulate the vintage florals of years past. Think statement designs inspired by out of the box designers like Lilly Pulitzer.

If the idea of a modern farmhouse doesn’t make you swoon, never fear. Today’s custom home builds come with a variety of options to fit your unique aesthetic. Expect home design trends to move away from the rustic modern in favor of natural elements, concrete, copper accents, and a home that feels both inviting and high-end. For more custom home building ideas, contact Tony McClung.

3 Unique Colors for Your Custom Home Interior – And How to Use Them

Are you sick of grey, beige, and the ubiquitous “greige?” You’re not alone. According to many home design experts, neutrals are on their way out. Today’s homes feature rich colors such as jewel tones and bright pops of pigment. Pantone just released their color palette for autumn 2018, and there is not a shade of greige in sight. Consider adding one of these saturated hues into your new custom home:

Inspired by Nature

Like other home design and building trends in 2018, this year’s colors take their cues from nature. Pantone’s newest line features autumnal hues that bring to mind the rustling of fallen leaves on a forest floor. With complementary shades that can be mixed and matched, nature inspired hues are sure to make a statement in your home.

“[Our] palette continues to show designers expressing the need for individuality, ingenuity and creativity though fashion,” said executive director of the Pantone Color Institute Leatrice Eiseman. From deep red to spicy yellow, autumnal colors will spice up your interiors while providing a source of comfort and unity with nature.

Jewel Tones

Move over diamonds – rich hues of ruby, amethyst, and emerald are a new best friend. Jewel tones naturally evoke the luxe aesthetic of the Baroque. Accented with chandeliers, glittering accents, or glass, jewel-toned walls can instantly elevate a space and bring chicness to your space.

Don’t Fear Purple

Homeowners often shy away from the color purple; equating it with their grandmother’s knitting room. When done correctly, however, lavender can make a luxe statement. Don’t forget that purple has been associated with royalty and wealth for centuries. Echo these sentiments by matching lavender walls with a deeper purple velvet couch, a silk rug, and custom curtains.

Painting Basics

When choosing paint colors, find complementary shades that move seamlessly from one room to the next. Inspired by nature, hues or jewel tones naturally harmonize, but choose cool or similar undertones to create more cohesion from room to room, without sacrificing richness in color. For example, a cooled down raspberry shade can combine with daffodil accents to create a bright, cheery child’s playroom or sunroom. Sky blue with a touch of grey undertone will help turn color into a neutral, so it will play well with any accents you desire.

Finding the right color scheme for your home can help you express your individual style, but it also requires some planning. Talk to custom homebuilder Tony McClung for more ideas to make your custom home uniquely you. As an architectural designer, he can match you with an interior designer for your project and take all the stress off of you!

4 Landscaping Ideas for Your Custom Home

Spring looks like it is finally here to stay in Texas! With spring comes the desire to buy pretty flowers and plants for your patio and yard. You’ve pored over design plans, chosen the perfect fixtures and furniture, and spent hours cultivating the interior space of your dreams. Now it’s time to give the same attention to the outside. Your landscaping is one of the most important aspects of your home build. While it might seem like a finishing touch, it determines your curb appeal and ultimately drives the functionality of your yard and outdoor spaces. Follow some simple suggestions and make your landscaping shine in your new custom home:

Consider Your Pets

Landscape experts are seeing an increase in a pet-friendly landscaping plan, so much so that the movement has a name: “dogscaping.” Once reserved for the most eccentric of homeowners, today’s home spaces have your pet in mind. Whether it’s a dedicated space for playing or choosing non-toxic plants, your landscaping should have functionality in mind as well as aesthetic.

Porches

If you love spending a lot of time outdoors, wrap-around porches are becoming an increasingly popular option for custom home builds. This classic look has a cozy, “come on over” feel, and is great for entertaining guests. Fill your porch with comfortable, soft chairs and inviting tables, and you have an instant party space.

Create an Outdoor Cooking Space

If you’re in the middle of a custom home, think beyond the classic gas grill on wheels. Built-in kitchen and prep spaces improve your outdoor get-togethers by allowing you to be a part of the action, not just a fixture in your indoor kitchen. Today’s models feature built-in gas and charcoal grills, brick ovens, wet bar setups, and more.

Try a Pond

If you don’t want a swimming pool, but still enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that water can bring, consider a small pond. Today’s technology allows these ponds to be sustainable, so you don’t have to worry about maintaining or cleaning. Add a couple of fish, and enjoy tranquil mornings in your outdoor space with a cup of coffee.

Your outdoor spaces can be as simple or as intricate as your heart desires. If you want a place for your children and animals to play, plant species of hearty grass and plants. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a space where you can entertain, create a porch feature and an outdoor cooking space. Tony McClung can help you design an outdoor space that fits your needs and budget - take a look at some of his gorgeous outdoor spaces! And be sure to contact us to learn more.

4 Spring Trends in Custom Home Building

Custom home construction is both an art and a science – as such, it constantly evolves. What was in vogue ten or even five years ago might not make much sense to current homebuilders. Today’s custom home builds place equal weight on form and function, creating beautiful spaces that work for your family’s size and budget. Explore some of the latest trends in custom home building.

The “Messy Kitchen”

The open concept home has been a popular choice for homeowners for years, and it makes sense: an open concept makes a home appear larger and makes it easier to entertain guests. There’s a major downside to an open concept floor plan, however: your guests risk looking at a pile of dirty dishes and kitchen counters as they eat the meal you just prepared. This is where the concept of a “messy kitchen” comes in: newer custom homes feature a hidden prep area tucked in behind the main kitchen space. This allows for minimal cleanup and more time for socializing with friends – isn’t that why you’re hosting in the first place?

More Natural Elements

Today’s custom homes, especially in temperate climates, have an increased focus on blurring the line between inside and outside spaces. While the sweltering summers of the west make it impossible to fully merge these two spaces, designers provide a practical answer by incorporating more natural elements into the home. A stark contrast to the tech and industrial trends favored at the turn of the millennium, today’s modern homes focus on interior landscaping and natural elements like stone, concrete, and copper.

Richer Color Palettes

If the neutral palettes of current home decorating magazines bring waves of disappointment, this year brings good news for those who love color. Current trends in home building feature retro vibes, like candy-coated high end appliances and even rich furnishings in luxe materials like velvet. Look for other warm accents in the form of copper or brass fixtures.

Open Shelving in the Kitchen

Today’s homes focus less on the pristine and more on the comfortable and cozy. One popular way to accomplish this is by incorporating open shelving throughout your kitchen. This not only gives your new house a homey feel, it also gives you the opportunity to turn your kitchen ware into art pieces.

Custom home building trends may evolve, but we think the focus on creating a home that’s functional and beautiful is here to stay. Would you try any of these new home design and construction trends? Tony McClung can help make your dream a reality – contact us to learn more.