On a Clear Day…
On a clear day, we are getting the “foundation” for the Mansard roof all prep’d.
Thinking (Black Bottom) Pool
In consonance with the century old original stone building, we are attempting to carry over the old world aesthetic to the landscape and that includes the pool. Here, our pool consultant, pours acid on the Pebble Tec gunite samples and washed it off to show the color it would become when wet. The photo…
Test Driving a Green Machine
It was my bright idea to test drive the Tesla Model S, P-100-D and see if it can take us to Calistoga and back to the city without the “running out of charge” anxiety. Success : in Calistoga with still 65% of battery charge and a relaxed driver on the Auto Pilot function. …
Grouting Inside & Out
We hope we don’t have to re-grout in a very long time. The gray grout was the best color choice to bring some depth to the warm yellow stone walls.
California’s Version of …
Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Tahini, Roasted Beets, Avocado and Chickpeas Canadian Bacon and Eggs
Ira Yaeger & Les Indiens Royal
In studying what art is best to showcase at the Francis House, a prominent Calistoga historic property, we turn to local artists whose work celebrate the indigenous Wappo tribe. I discovered Ira Yaeger online after many hours and late nights of searching. See the man’s extraordinary talent and work here.
Taking a (Breakfast) Break from Construction
While I have been posting photos of construction work, there is kitchen work happening simultaneously. Here are some breakfast items that we have been working on: Sweet Banana Chocolate Blueberry Crepes; Blinis with Smoked Salmon Creme Fraiche ; and Roasted Asparagus on a Gruyere Topped Brioche . In 2013, I…
All This Happened this (Non-Rain) Week
Painted Original Redwood Architectural Ornaments and Trims Wooden Sheathing for the Third Floor is Underway And re-installing all the original restored windows We are thankful for the rains but now it is time to hustle. The roof is a major event !
It’s a Paint Match for the Wooden Trims and Windows
Finally have a paint match to the original stone color of the building. All the wood window trims and restored windows will receive this paint color (as shown on paint on wooden panel below). The original & historic Francis House had the same color wooden trims and ornaments that matched the exterior stone.
Mother Nature Smiled Big Today
When this is what you pass on the way to a job site, you know somethings coming up roses !