The architect explains: “We wanted a hard wearing surface that would remain intact over time and withstand the wear and tear that typically occurs in the home environment”. With a highly resistant Satin finish, Iron Copper delivers a surface hardness that is often favoured for commercial use. The application of the matte finish to a residential project, coupled with the scratch resistance and modulus of rupture afforded by Neolith®, offered a hardwearing integrity to the design. Hygienic, waterproof, easy to clean and 100% natural, Neolith®’s properties provide a versatility that makes the surface equally suitable for application in the kitchen and breakfast room as it is for the living space and beyond; a factor the IV Centenário project took full advantage of. Rossi continues: “Neolith®'s properties meant we could apply the panels to different rooms throughout the home in full confidence that the surfacing material possessed the qualities best suited to the functionality of that particular environment”. Iron Copper was also specified for the balcony facades; Neolith®’s resistance to high temperatures and UV rays making it ideal for the scorching Brazilian weather. Rossi comments: “Due to the open plan nature of the ground floor layout, in which the outdoor area connects with the interior lounge, it was important for the surfacing material to not deteriorate under exposure to the sun and extreme temperatures”. Furthermore, with the connecting exterior featuring a swimming pool, Neolith®’s near zero water absorption and resistance to chemical cleaning agents meant potential exposure to pool water and chlorine would not affect the integrity of the material. Lightweight, a 3 mm and 12 mm Neolith® panel weigh only 7 kg/m² and 30 kg/m² respectively. In combination with the different availability of slabs sizes, which include large formats measuring 3200 x 1500 and 3600 x 1200 mm, as well as bespoke options, Neolith® was an extremely attractive proposition for the project. Rossi expands: “Being able to cover large areas with fewer panels, combined with Neolith®’s lightweight properties, provides installation advantages from a labour, time and cost perspective”. “In addition to putting the customer’s wishes in the design concept of the vanguard, Ricardo Rossi Architecture and Interiors is also concerned with sustainability and whenever possible will specify eco-friendly materials.” For the IV Centenário project, TheSize’s production processes and Neolith®’s sustainable, ecological and 100% recyclable nature offered a product in keeping with this approach. NEOLITH: Design, Durability, Versatility, Sustainability

Builder: John Kraemer & Sons | Architect: TEA2 Architects | Interior Design: Marcia Morine | Photography: Landmark Photography

Mimi Erickson

This bar was created from reclaimed barn wood salvaged form the customers original barn.

Dave Bigler Photos & Films

Antique Hit-Skip Oak Flooring used as an accent wall and exposed beams featured in this rustic bar area. Photo by Kimberly Gavin Photography.

Photography Credit: Gary Harris

Private residence. Photo by KuDa Photography

Inspired by the majesty of the Northern Lights and this family's everlasting love for Disney, this home plays host to enlighteningly open vistas and playful activity. Like its namesake, the beloved Sleeping Beauty, this home embodies family, fantasy and adventure in their truest form. Visions are seldom what they seem, but this home did begin 'Once Upon a Dream'. Welcome, to The Aurora.

Jay Sinclair

• Mini Bar - provided by client • Decorative accessory styling • Bar Stools - Trica Bocca covered in Moore + Giles Leather

A close friend of one of our owners asked for some help, inspiration, and advice in developing an area in the mezzanine level of their commercial office/shop so that they could entertain friends, family, and guests. They wanted a bar area, a poker area, and seating area in a large open lounge space. So although this was not a full-fledged Four Elements project, it involved a Four Elements owner's design ideas and handiwork, a few Four Elements sub-trades, and a lot of personal time to help bring it to fruition. You will recognize similar design themes as used in the Four Elements office like barn-board features, live edge wood counter-tops, and specialty LED lighting seen in many of our projects. And check out the custom poker table and beautiful rope/beam light fixture constructed by our very own Peter Russell. What a beautiful and cozy space!

JE Evans Photography

Ross Chandler

The Butler’s Pantry quickly became one of our favorite spaces in this home! We had fun with the backsplash tile patten (utilizing the same tile we highlighted in the kitchen but installed in a herringbone pattern). Continuing the warm tones through this space with the butcher block counter and open shelving, it works to unite the front and back of the house. Plus, this space is home to the kegerator with custom family tap handles!

Photos by homeowner