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Safety on the Water

All users of the navigations are strongly recommended to make themselves aware of safety on the water for whatever activity they are involved in and to read the advice offered by the various governing bodies and by:

The Dept. of Transport, Ireland: http://www.gov.ie/transport and The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, UK, The RNLI Water Safety Irelandfor information in terms of drowning prevention and water safety.

All vessels using the Shannon Navigation, which includes the Shannon-Erne Waterways and the Erne System must be registered with Waterways Ireland. Only open undecked boats with an engine of 15 horsepower or less on the Shannon Navigation, and vessels of 10 horsepower or less on the Erne System, are exempt. Registration is free of charge.

Craft registration should be completed online at:https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/craft-registration

All vessels using the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation must display appropriate valid Permit(s) i.e A Combined Mooring and Passage Permit (126) and if not intending to move every five days, an Extended Mooring Permit (152).

Permit applications should be completed online at: https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/canal-permits

For boat passage through the locks east of Lock 12 into / out of Dublin on either the Royal or Grand Canals, Masters are requested to contact the Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (M-F 9.30am-4.30pm) on tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or email [emailprotected] prior to making passage in order to plan the necessary lock-keeping assistance arrangements.

On the Grand Canal a minimum of two days notice prior to the planned passage should be given, masters should note that with the exception of pre-arranged events, a maximum of 2 boats per day will be taken through the locks, travelling either east or west.

Movements in or out of the city will be organised by prior arrangement to take place as a single movement in one day. Boaters will be facilitated to travel the system if their passage is considered to be safe by Waterways Ireland and they have the valid permit(s) for mooring and passage.

On the Royal Canal two weeks notice of bridge passage (Newcomen Lifting Bridge) is required for the pre-set lift date, and lock assistance will then also be arranged. A minimum of 2 boats is required for a bridge lift to go ahead.

Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (Tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or [emailprotected] ) is the point of contact for the bridge lift.

A maximum number of boats passing will be implemented to keep to the times given above for the planned lifts (16 for the Sat / Sun lifts & 8 for the weekday lifts). Priority will be given on a first come first served basis.

On day of lift, boaters and passengers must follow guidance from Waterways Ireland staff about sequence of passage under bridge & through Lock 1, and must remain within signed and designated areas.

All organised events taking place on the waterways must have the prior approval of Waterways Ireland. This is a twelve week process and application forms must be accompanied with the appropriate insurance, signed indemnity and risk assessment. The application should be completed on the Waterways Ireland events page at :

https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/event-approval

On the Shannon Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway craft may berth in public harbours for five consecutive days or a total of seven days in any one month.

On the Erne System, revised Bye Laws state that: No master or owner shall permit a vessel, boat or any floating or sunken object to remain moored at or in the vicinity of any public mooring, including mooring at any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location, for more than 3 consecutive days and shall not moor at that same mooring or any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location within the following 3 consecutive days without prior permission by an authorised official.

Winter mooring may be availed of by owners during the period 1 Nov to 31 Mar by prior arrangement and payment of a charge of 63.50 per craft. Craft not availing of Winter Mooring must continue to comply with the 5 Day Rule. Winter Mooring applications should be completed online at : https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/winter-moorings-booking

Owners should be aware that electricity supply and water supply to public moorings is disconnected for the winter months. This is to protect against frost damage, to reduce running costs and to minimise maintenance requirements during the winter months.

Vessel owners are advised that advance purchasing of electricity on the power bollards leading up to the disconnection date should be minimal. Electricity credit existing on the bollards will not be recoverable after the winter decommissioning date. Both services will be reinstated prior to the commencement of the next boating season.

Waterways Ireland smart cards are used to operate locks on the Shannon Erne Waterway, to access the service blocks, to use the pump-outs along the navigations, to avail of electrical power at Waterways Ireland jetties.

Masters are reminded of the following:

Masters of vessels should not berth on passenger vessel berths where it is indicated that an arrival is imminent. Passenger vessels plying the navigations generally only occupy the berths to embark and disembark passengers and rarely remain on the berths for extended periods or overnight.

Lead-in jetties adjacent to the upstream and downstream gates at lock chambers are solely for the purpose of craft waiting to use the lock and should not be used for long term berthing.

Vessel wake, that is, the wave generated by the passage of the boat through the water, can sometimes be large, powerful and destructive depending on the hull shape and engine power of the vessel. This wake can be detrimental to other users of the navigation when it strikes their craft or inundates the shoreline or riverbank. Masters are requested to frequently look behind and check the effect of their wake / wash particularly when passing moored vessels, on entering harbours and approaching jetties and to be aware of people pursuing other activities such as fishing on the riverbank.

A vessel or boat shall not be navigated on the Shannon Navigation at a speed in excess of 5 kph when within 200 metres of a bridge, quay, jetty or wharf, when in a harbour or canal or when passing within 100 metres of a moored vessel or boat.

Vessels navigating the Shannon-Erne Waterway should observe the general 5 kph speed limit which applies along the waterway. This is necessary in order to prevent damage to the banks caused by excessive wash from vessels.

Vessels navigating the Erne System should observe the statutory 5kt / 6mph / 10kph speed limit areas.

A craft on the Royal and Grand canals shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 6km per hour.

A craft on the Barrow Navigation shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 11km per hour except as necessary for safe navigation in conditions of fast flow.

Narrow sections of all the navigations are particularly prone to bank erosion due to the large wash generated by some craft. Masters are requested to be vigilant and to slow down to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage when they observe the wash of their craft inundating the river banks.

Unusual waterborne vessels may be encountered from time to time, such as, hovercraft or amphibious aircraft / seaplanes. Masters of such craft are reminded to apply the normal Rule of the Road when they meet conventional craft on the water and to allow extra room to manoeuvre in the interest of safety.

Mariners will encounter large numbers of sailing dinghies from late June to August in the vicinity of Lough Derg, Lough Ree and Lower Lough Erne. Sailing courses are marked by yellow buoys to suit weather conditions on the day. Vessels should proceed at slow speed and with due caution and observe the rules of navigation when passing these fleets, as many of the participants are junior sailors under training.

Mariners should expect to meet canoes and vessels under oars on any part of the navigations, but more so in the vicinity of Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon, Coleraine, Enniskillen and Limerick. Masters are reminded to proceed at slow speed and especially to reduce their wash to a minimum when passing these craft as they can be easily upset and swamped due to their very low freeboard and always be prepared to give way in any given traffic situation.

Canoeing is an adventure sport and participants are strongly recommended to seek the advice of the sports governing bodies i.e Canoeing Ireland and the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland, before venturing onto the navigations.

Persons in charge of canoes are reminded of the inherent danger to these craft associated with operating close to weirs, sluice gates, locks and other infrastructure particularly when rivers are in flood and large volumes of water are moving through the navigations due to general flood conditions or very heavy localised precipitation e.g. turbulent and broken water, stopper waves. Shooting weirs is prohibited without prior permission of Waterways Ireland.

Canoeists should check with lockkeepers prior entering a lock to ensure passage is done in a safe manner. Portage is required at all unmanned locks.

Masters of powered craft are reminded that a canoe trail network is being developed across all navigations and to expect more organised canoeing along these trails necessitating slow speed and minimum wash when encountering canoeists, rowing boats etc

It is expected that work on Rockingham and Drummans Island Canals on Lough Key will be completed in 2021. Access to these canals will be for non-powered craft only, eg canoes, kayaks, rowing boats.

Masters of Fast Powerboats (speed greater than 17kts) and Personal Watercraft (i.e.Jet Skis) are reminded of the inherent dangers associated with high speed on the water and especially in the confines of small bays and narrow sections of the navigations. Keeping a proper look-out, making early alterations to course and /or reducing speed will avoid conflict with slower vessels using the navigation. Personal Watercraft are not permitted to be used on the canals.

Masters of vessels engaged in any of these activities are reminded of the manoeuvring constraints imposed upon their vessel by the tow and of the added responsibilities that they have to the person(s) being towed. These activities should be conducted in areas which are clear of conflicting traffic. It is highly recommended that a person additional to the master be carried to act as a look-out to keep the tow under observation at all times.

Swimming in the navigable channel, particularly at bridges, is dangerous and is prohibited due to the risk of being run over by a vessel underway in the navigation.

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the minimum age for operating of powered craft. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a personal watercraft or a fast power craft shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years does not operate or control the craft

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft powered by an engine with a rating of more than 5 horse power or 3.7 kilowatts shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 12 years does not operate or control the craft.

Lifejackets and PFDs are the single most important items of personal protective equipment to be used on a vessel and should be worn especially when the vessel is being manoeuvred such as entering / departing a lock, anchoring, coming alongside or departing a jetty or quayside.

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the wearing of Personal Flotation Devices. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall ensure, that there are, at all times on board the craft, sufficient suitable personal flotation devices for each person on board.

- A person on a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) of less than 7 metres length overall shall wear a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of decked craft, other than when the craft is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years complies with paragraph above.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft), shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years wears a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of a decked craft other than when it is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person wears a suitable personal flotation device, at all times while (a) being towed by the craft, (b) on board a vessel or object of any kind which is being towed by the craft.

Further information is available at: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2005/si/921/made/en/print

The attention of mariners is drawn to the Irish Defence Forces Firing Range situated in the vicinity of buoys Nos 2 and 3, on Lough Ree on the Shannon Navigation. This range is used regularly for live firing exercises, throughout the year, all boats and vessels should stay clear of the area marked with yellow buoys showing a yellow "X" topmark and displaying the word "Danger".

No attempt should be made by Masters of vessels to pay the bridge toll while making way through the bridge opening. Payment will only be taken by the Collector from Masters when they are secured alongside the jetties north and south of the bridge.

The navigation from Killaloe to Limerick involves passage through Ardnacrusha locks, the associated headrace and tailrace and the Abbey River into Limerick City. Careful passage planning is required to undertake this voyage. Considerations include: lock passage at Ardnacrusha, water flow in the navigation, airdraft under bridges on Abbey River in Limerick, state of tide in Limerick

Users are advised to contact the ESB Ardnacrusha hydroelectric power station (00353 (0)87 9970131) 48 hours in advance of commencing their journey to book passage through the locks at Ardnacrusha. It is NOT advised to undertake a voyage if more than one turbine is operating (20MW), due to the increased velocity of flow in the navigation channel, which can be dangerous. To ascertain automatically in real time how many turbines are running, users can phone +353 (0)87 6477229.

For safety reasons the ESB has advised that only powered craft with a capacity in excess of 5 knots are allowed to enter Ardnacrusha Headrace and Tailrace Canals.

Passage through Sarsfield Lock should be booked on +353-87-7972998, on the day prior to travel and it should be noted also that transit is not possible two hours either side of low water.

A Hydrographic survey in 2020 of the navigation channel revealed that the approach from Shannon Bridge to Sarsfield Lock and the Dock area has silted up. Masters of vessels and water users are advised to navigate to the Lock from Shannon bridge on a rising tide one or two hours before High Tide.

The attention of all users is drawn to the Users Code for the Lower Bann, in particular to that section covering Flow in the River outlining the dangers for users both on the banks and in the navigation, associated with high flow rates when the river is in spate. Canoeists should consult and carry a copy of the Lower Bann Canoe Trail guide issued by the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland. Users should also contact the DfI Rivers Coleraine, who is responsible for regulating the flow rates on the river, for advisory information on the flow rates to be expected on any given day.

DfI Rivers Coleraine. Tel: 0044 28 7034 2357 Email: [emailprotected]

A No Wake Zone exists on the Lower Bann Navigation at Newferry. Masters of vessels are requested to proceed at a slow speed and create no wake while passing the jetties and slipways at Newferry.

All Masters must be aware of the dangers associated with overhead power lines, in particular sailing vessels and workboats with cranes or large air drafts. Voyage planning is a necessity in order to identify the location of overhead lines crossing the navigation.

Overhead power line heights on the River Shannon are maintained at 12.6metres (40 feet) from Normal Summer level for that section of navigation, masters of vessels with a large air draft should proceed with caution and make additional allowances when water levels are high.

If a vessel or its equipment comes into contact with an OHPL the operator should NOT attempt to move the vessel or equipment. The conductor may still be alive or re-energise automatically. Maintain a safe distance and prevent third parties from approaching due to risk of arcing. Contact the emergency services for assistance.

Anglers are also reminded that a minimum ground distance of 30 metres should be maintained from overhead power lines when using a rod and line.

Masters of vessels are reminded not to anchor their vessels in the vicinity of submarine cables or pipes in case they foul their anchor or damage the cables or pipes. Look to the river banks for signage indicating their presence.

Low Water Levels:

When water levels fall below normal summer levels masters should be aware of:

Navigation

To reduce the risk of grounding masters should navigate on or near the centreline of the channel, avoid short cutting in dog-legged channels and navigating too close to navigation markers.

Proceeding at a slow speed will also reduce squat effect i.e. where the vessel tends to sit lower in the water as a consequence of higher speed.

Slipways

Reduced slipway length available under the water surface and the possibility of launching trailers dropping off the end of the concrete apron.

More slipway surface susceptible to weed growth requiring care while engaged in launching boats, from slipping and sliding on the slope. Note also that launching vehicles may not be able to get sufficient traction on the slipway once the craft is launched to get up the incline.

Bank Erosion

Very dry riverbanks are more susceptible to erosion from vessel wash.

Lock Share

Maximising on the number of vessels in a lock will ensure that the total volume of water moving downstream is decreased. Lock cycles should be used for vessels travelling each way.

High Water Levels:

When water levels rise above normal summer level masters should be aware of:

Navigation

Navigation marks will have reduced height above the water level or may disappear underwater altogether making the navigable channel difficult to discern.

In narrow sections of the navigations water levels will tend to rise more quickly than in main streams and air draft at bridges will likewise be reduced.

There will also be increased flow rates particularly in the vicinity of navigation infrastructure such as bridges, weirs, locks etc where extra care in manoeuvring vessels will be required.

Due care is required in harbours and at slipways when levels are at or near the same level as the harbour walkways' as the edge will be difficult to discern especially in reduced light conditions. It is advised that Personal Flotation Devices be worn if tending to craft in a harbour in these conditions.

Slipways should only be used for the purpose of launching and recovering of water craft or other objects from the water. Before using a slipway it should be examined to ensure that the surface has sufficient traction/grip for the intended purpose such as launching a craft from a trailer using a vehicle, that there is sufficient depth of water on the slipway to float the craft off the trailer before the concrete apron ends and that the wheels of the trailer do not drop off the edge of the slipway. That life-saving appliances are available in the vicinity, that the vehicle is roadworthy and capable of coping with the weight of the trailer and boat on the incline. It is recommended that slipway operations are conducted by two persons.

The aids to navigation depicted on the navigation guides comprise a system of fixed and floating aids to navigation. Prudent mariners will not rely solely on any single aid to navigation, particularly a floating aid to navigation. With respect to buoys, the buoy symbol is used to indicate the approximate position of the buoy body and the ground tackle which secures it to the lake or river bed. The approximate position is used because of the practical limitations in positioning and maintaining buoys in precise geographical locations. These limitations include, but are not limited to, prevailing atmospheric and lake/river conditions, the slope of and the material making up the lake/river bed, the fact that the buoys are moored to varying lengths of chain, and the fact that the buoy body and/or ground tackle positions are not under continuous surveillance. Due to the forces of nature, the position of the buoy body can be expected to shift inside and outside the charted symbol.

Buoys and perches are also moved out of position or pulled over by those mariners who use them to moor up to instead of anchoring. To this end, mariners should always monitor their passage by relating buoy/perch positions with the published navigation guide. Furthermore, a vessel attempting to pass close by always risks collision with a yawing buoy or with the obstruction that the buoy or beacon/perch marks.

Masters of Vessels are requested to use the most up to date Navigation guides when navigating on the Inland Waterways.

Information taken from Special Marine Notice No 1 of 2023

Excerpt from:
Concerns Over Proposed Changes to Inland Waterways Bye-Laws - Afloat

Steelwork and bridge deck construction are now complete on Griffiths' new Dyfi Bridge project in Wales.

Building work on the Welsh Government scheme began in spring 2021.

The site team are now working on the viaduct finishes, including deck waterproofing, parapets and combined kerbing installation.

Road surfacing, street lighting, and signage installation are also underway, ensuring safety and convenience for the travelling public. Griffiths is also working on drainage and scour protection to guarantee the bridges longevity.

The bridge is located on the A487 near Machynlleth in Wales. The existing 19th century Pont-ar-Ddyfi bridge was not designed to carry the current volume of traffic, and the road is often closed due to frequent flooding.

The scheme will see the A487 realigned away from the Pont-ar-Ddyfi bridge, a Grade II-listed and Scheduled Ancient Monument, and routed onto a new viaduct structure 480m upstream to reduce the pinch point.

As such, the project has been designed to improve road safety, strengthen links between communities, provide active travel opportunities and build resilience against flooding.

The bridge will make it easier to cross the River Dyfi and provide better access to employment opportunities, healthcare and education. In addition, it will make sure Machynlleth remains a vibrant centre of the community and preserve historic landmarks and buildings.

The new 725m long viaduct, with a 74m span over the River Dyfi itself, was designed by Arup for contractor Griffiths. Work to minimise the flood risk and impact on the river was undertaken with Wallingford HydroSolutions.

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Griffiths completes steelwork and deck construction on 46M Welsh ... - New Civil Engineer

In some ugly scenes this evening at their pre-fight press conference, bitter enemies and opponents, Logan Paul and Dillon Danis were corralled and escorted off stage in Manchester after the latter appeared to hit the former in the face with a water bottle ahead of a planned face-off.

Slated to co-headline a MisFits boxing event in England, Bellator MMA grappler and 2-0 professional mixed martial artists, Danis makes a professional boxing debut in Manchester taking on professional wrestler and podcast host, Paul in a bad-blooded clash inside the square circle.

Currently involved in legal proceedings with Pauls fiance, Nina Agdal ahead of the boxing match, Dillon Danis has continued to post expletive photos of the latter on his official social media, as well as a slew of pictures of her alongside prior boyfriends and partners, in a bid to promote his clash with Ohio native, Paul.

And sharing the stage today in a heated back-and-forth ahead of this weekends co-main event bout in Manchester, Danis who showed off his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ability during last nights openworks, appeared to launch a water bottle at the face of Paul ahead of a staredown, with Paul covering his head as the two were escorted off stage with security scuffling.

Sidelined from active competition since 2019, Danis, who has since undergone a series of surgical procedures to address a myriad of knee injuries, boasts a 2-0 professional mixed martial arts record, landing a pair of back-to-back submission wins in two outings with Bellator MMA.

Across social media last night to boot, footage emerged of Danis choking out OnlyFans model and boxing influencer, Elle Brook, who asked to be choked unconscious before describing the feeling as so much better than drugs.

Who wins this weekend in Manchester: Logan Paul or Dillon Danis?

See more here:
Video - Dillon Danis Decks Logan Paul With Water Bottle To The ... - LowKick MMA

Sprawling Estate located on a 7.5-acre private peninsula of Lake Harding with 2,300ft of shoreline and picturesque views located on 5,850 acre reservior. This exquisite Historical home, originally constructed in 1917 offers distinctive craftsmanship and architectural design with modern amenities. Truly an entertainer's paradise inside and out from the lakefront pool, rooftop terraces, and enchanting garden paths to the generously sized great room with soaring ceilings, custom coffering, walls of windows and a grand fireplace. Overall, this garden is a testament to careful planning, decades of nurturing, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the area. The mature trees and shrubs provide a sense of timelessness and elegance, while the colorful flowers and serene water views create a sense of joy and tranquility. 2,100 bottle wine cellar. Numerous terraces and 5 docks stun guests on the perfectly manicured grounds. An underground parking garage with room for up to 12 vehicles with temperature control and an enclosed boathouse with 4 bays. An elevator accesses all 4 levels of the home. Geothermal system and HVAC. Conveniently located 1.5 hours South of ALT Airport, 30+ minutes to Auburn, AL and Columbus, GA Regional airports, shopping, country clubs, Callaway Gardens, Grand National Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, and dining and more.

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Historical homes you can own in the Opelika area - Opelika Auburn News

MOVE IN READY! 10K Closing cost plus free refrigerator and blinds with use of APPROVED LENDER. Living up to its namesake, The Kingsley plan is regal, exquisite, and elegant. A plan designed to fit even the most royal needs. The covered entry opens to the large flex room and cozy entry way. Always dreamed of a home office, home gym, or even just a quiet place to relax? The flex room gives you the freedom to make those dreams a reality any way you want! The foyer also leads into an open-concept kitchen and great room. The kitchen is complete with a vast island and ample counter space. The great room leads to the master retreat at the rear of the house. The master suite boasts a double vanity, garden tub, and walk-in closet. The 2 other bedrooms are located on the side of the house and share a hallway bathroom. The laundry room is connected to the 2-car garage, creating a perfect space to kick off those muddy shoes before going inside. Lot 10,

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Newly constructed houses you can buy in Dothan - Dothan Eagle

Here's a home to build a dream on! As you enter into The Montclair floor plan you are greeted by the 2-story ceiling foyer! This lovely home showcases 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3-car garage, detailed trim work, crown molding, 9' ceilings on main, an elegant & cheery dining room that put graciousness back into entertaining, living room/study offers infinite adaptability to any decor or color scheme, primary suite on main with faux coffered ceiling, two separate closets, ensuite bath with 1/2 wall tile shower, and framed mirror over granite vanity. Oversize great room flows effortless to breakfast nook and kitchen which is perfect for entertaining! Kitchen with island, granite countertops, stainless steel-appliances with pyramid-style vented hood and a Gourmet-style wall microwave. Leading to second floor is highlighted by oak tread stairs and wrought iron railings you will find an oversize loft! 4th bedrooms with full bath. This home has so much to offer.!

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Originally posted here:
Newly constructed houses you can buy in Greensboro - Greensboro News & Record

Come Fly With Me! Situated across from Ocean City's famous Airport and Golf Course, you will find this incredible Single Family Home with a separate 2 bedroom apartment, mother-in-law suite, air bnb rental, and overflow! There is ample space for the entire family with over 3200 square feet, 5 Bedrooms, and 3.5 Bathrooms, which also includes a Bonus 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom REAR COTTAGE! Upon entering the home, you will find a FIRST FLOOR en-suite bedroom and a full bathroom. A welcoming living room that flows into the spacious kitchen and dining area, the perfect layout for entertaining, as it opens to the family room, a gathering space to pile in and enjoy Sunday Football with family and friends. The BRAND NEW Kitchen is the focal point of the home. Amenities include a ceramic tile backsplash, quartz countertops with a breakfast bar, custom cabinetry, a built-in bar, and a spacious walk-in pantry with ample storage and shelving. Also on this level is a half bathroom and access to the rear cottage. The second floor holds the remaining four bedrooms, two full baths, and a laundry room. This captivating single-family home perfectly blends coastal living and modern comforts, as it has been entirely renovated! This property has a host of appealing features, including luxury laminate flooring, brand-new bathrooms, paint, trim, dual-zoned heating, and air conditioning for maximum comfort. The Rear Cottage/ Apartment is an incredible opportunity to utilize this space as an in-law suite, overflow for guests, or, better yet, its private access provides an opportunity to earn rental income, making it a phenomenal investment. The additional space offers 2 generously sized bedrooms, a full bathroom, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen, a laundry closet, and a balcony! This property has rear alley access, two car attached garage, parking for 5, and numerous outdoor living spaces, including a spacious and functional front deck, a rear deck ideal for BBQs and gatherings, and the second-floor cottage deck that provides breathtaking views of the Bay and Wetlands!

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Original post:
South Jersey homes for big families - Press of Atlantic City

October 11, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. EDT

Birchwood at Brambleton a 55-and-older community of single-family houses, brownstone townhouses and courtyard houses is the newest section of the Brambleton planned community in Loudoun County, Va. Brambleton, about 30 miles west of Washington, was established in 2001 near Ashburn (and has an Ashburn mailing address). The community has athletic courts, pools, trails and other recreation areas and is near shopping at the Brambleton Town Center. Some new social and recreation facilities are specific to the Birchwood section.

Birchwood single-family houses and brownstones, some already built but none move-in ready, are now on the market. Sales for courtyard houses will begin later this year. Buyers are offered a selection of some exterior and interior features. Exteriors have brick and vinyl siding with masonry veneer accents.

The Miraval brownstone is Birchwoods elevator townhouse floor plan.

The first floor has a foyer and a two-car garage, both with access to a room that could be a recreation room or a bedroom. A powder room or a full bathroom and a backyard patio are options.

The second floor has an open-concept kitchen, dining area and great room. A powder room comes standard. Options include a deck and a gas fireplace. The deck can be fully or partially screened.

The third floor has a primary bedroom suite with en suite bathroom. It also has a laundry room and the choice of either two more bedrooms and a hall bathroom or a second bedroom with en suite bathroom.

The elevator serves all floors. Hardwood floors are standard in the foyer, powder room, kitchen, elevator, and entry from the garage. Buyers select flooring for the rest of the townhouse.

The Delano single-family house, also with an elevator, has two floors and a lower level.

The first floor has a front porch next to a two-car garage. The entry foyer leads to the open-concept kitchen, dining area and great room. This level also has a pantry and a powder room. Options include decks off the dining area and great room. The back deck, off the great room, can be fully or partially screened.

The second floor has a loft, furnished as an office in the decorated model. The primary bedroom suite has an en suite bathroom and a walk-in closet. The laundry room can be accessed from that closet or the hall. Two more bedrooms share a hall bathroom.

The lower level has storage areas and optional finished rooms. The decorated model has two recreation rooms; one has wood cabinets with black marble countertops.

Hardwood floors are standard in the foyer, powder room, kitchen, great room, dining room, elevator, and entry off the garage. Buyers select flooring for the rest of the house.

Buyers have some choices for kitchen fixture finishes and countertop material. And optional upgrades are available for appliances.

The kitchen of the Miraval furnished model townhouse has light gray cabinets and stainless-steel Samsung appliances, including a double wall oven and three-door refrigerator. It has a white quartz countertop with a gas cooktop and white subway tile backsplash. A dishwasher is installed in the island, which has a sink with a black Kohler faucet and a brown granite countertop.

The kitchen of the Delano furnished model home has natural-wood-finish cabinets, white quartz countertops, and a stone-look tile backsplash. It also has stainless-steel Jennair appliances, including a double wall oven and three-door refrigerator. The cabinets and countertop in the pantry match those in the kitchen. Both places have black Kohler faucets.

The Miraval brownstone has a powder room and two or three full bathrooms. The decorated model unit has a powder room on the second floor and two full bathrooms on the third floor. All have black Kohler fixtures, and the full bathrooms have gray cabinets that match those in the kitchen. The half-bath has a pedestal sink.

The primary bathroom has a double-sink vanity with a white quartz countertop. The shower has a bench and a stone-look-tile shower surround. The bathroom floor matches the shower surround and the shower floor has matching small tiles. The secondary suite has a shower and a single-sink vanity with a white cultured marble countertop. The shower surround and bathroom floor are gray tile that match the smaller shower floor tiles.

The Delano has a powder room and two or three full bathrooms. The decorated model home has a full bathroom on the lower level, a powder room on the first floor and two full bathrooms on the second floor. All have black Kohler fixtures. The full baths have natural-wood cabinets that match those in the kitchen. The lower-level bathroom has a tub-shower combination with white subway tile shower surround, gray floor tile and a single-sink vanity with a white marble countertop. The powder room has a pedestal sink.

The second-floor primary bath has a walk-in shower with a bench. The shower surround and bathroom floor are marble-look tile, and the shower floor has similar but smaller tile. The double-sink vanity has a white quartz countertop. The hall bathroom has a tub-shower combo with a white subway tile shower surround, gray floor tile and a single-sink vanity with white cultured marble countertop.

When completed, the Birch House 55+ Exclusive Club House will include social gathering spaces, exercise rooms, covered outdoor seating and bocce courts. In the established section of Birchwood at Brambleton across Loudoun County Parkway, there is a clubhouse that has a demonstration kitchen, flex space for yoga classes, arts and crafts classes, game rooms, a golf simulator, and indoor and outdoor pools. Outside there are trails, bocce and Pickleball courts and a fishing pier on Lake Birchwood.

Brambleton Town Center is about two miles away. Bram Quarter is adjacent to Birchwood at Brambleton. It now provides space to the Brambleton Welcome Center, a Miller and Smith sales office and a dental center but will eventually be further developed into retail and commercial space.

Birchwood at Brambleton has walking trails and green space. Lake Birchwood is surrounded by trails and green spaces. Brambleton Regional Park and Golf Course is less than five miles away. Stream Valley Park and Broad Run Trail are adjacent to the community.

Ashburn Metrorail station, on the Silver Line, is four miles away.

Birchwood at Brambleton offers a variety of options in an active-adult community connected to the planned community of Brambleton. Tracy Lamb, vice president of sales at Miller and Smith, said in an email that the available choices appeal to buyers. Buyers can customize cabinets, flooring, countertops (kitchen and bath), bath tile, appliances, and many structural components of the home as well. Its not a one size fits all as in other active adult communities, she said.

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Brownstones, single-family houses for 55-plus buyers in Loudoun, Va. - The Washington Post

Were not ashamed to admit we save, pin, and heart countless beautifully designed kitchens on our social media feeds. (We may not be in the middle of a renovation, but we can still dream, right?) So we were pumped when the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recentlyreleased its 2024 Kitchen Trends report, which is a compilation of key insights from 630 industry professionals, like designers, manufacturers, contractors, and architects.

The report reveals the anticipated trends for the next three years (yes, you read that correctly! Three years!) in products, materials, and finishes for residential kitchens. In general, warm neutrals, lighter woods, and earth tones are growing in popularity, while stark white kitchens, gray cabinets, over-the-range microwaves, and trash compactors are on their way out. Read on to find out more details on what youll see in the newly designed kitchens of 2024.

For a while there, it seemed like black hardware was going to take the leading spot in terms of finish colors, but according to nearly 50 percent of respondents in the NKBA survey, gold will be number one for faucets, followed by stainless steel and black. When it comes to the actual finish, matte, brushed, or satin will be preferredprobably because they hide smudges and fingerprints way better than polished finishes! And on a related note, if youre curious about sink trends, the ultra cool workstation kitchen sink, (which usually features cutting boards, strainers, and drying rack) is becoming immensely popular.

CreativaStudio/GETTY IMAGES

The appeal behind the slab trend is very easy to see, or at least 61 percent of NKBA respondents see the appeal: Yes, it looks incredibly luxe, but there are also no grout lines to clean! Just a quick wipe means easy maintenance. One of the most popular slab choices is quartz. Other popular backsplash alternatives are patterned tile (like hex, chevron, and herringbone) and subway designs. In general, backsplash colors will feature warm neutrals, earth tones, and muted colors.

Peter Valli; Design by Jeanne Chung of CozyStylishChic

Bye, bye white kitchens! Well, sort of. Stark white kitchens are out, and creamy whites are in, in addition to wood tones. But the color thats really taking over for 32 percent of respondents is green, probably partly due to the rise in biophilic design, which tries to integrate nature into decor. Vicky Serany, co-founder of Southern Studio and NKBA member, says, The earthy comfort of green has been embraced by our clients recently. We have blended green cabinetry with natural wood and even creamy whites. For those clients who are a bit cautious of committing to green cabinetry, weve used a rich green backsplash with neutral painted cabinets with beautiful results.

The DIY trend of slapping a coat of paint onto cabinets is now fading into the distance, and were all hopping on the plain wood bandwagon. Jeanne Chung, principal designer of CozyStylishChic and NKBA member, confirms this saying, Natural wood is a must in the kitchen to give warmth. White oak and walnut have been at the top of the list in terms of trending wood species, and were also starting to use alder, as it stains nicely, has a nice grain pattern, and it does well in both modern and traditional settings. It has a neutral tone and doesn't feel as heavy and dated like some of the other wood species out there. In terms of cabinet style, NKBA reports that contemporary, modern, mid-century, and Scandinavian designs will be popular. Think flat panel designs that are free of hardware and feature push-to-open technology.

Adam Kane Macchia Photography; Design by Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn and AKBD

Music to our Real Simple ears: Tricked out cabinetry that prioritizes organization is in high demand. According to NKBA, more than 50 percent of respondents are looking for walk-in, butler, and built-in pantries! And 37 percent of homeowners want cabinets with customizable drawer dividers and partitions. Theres also a desire for more floor to ceiling cabinetry and deep lower cabinets to help maximize storage, plus more drawers and built in charging stations to improve cabinet functionality.

Dustin Peck Photography; Design by Vicky Serany of Southern Studio

Another microtrend thats on the rise? Beverage stations like coffee cabinets, smoothie centers, and wine bars. 60 percent of NKBA respondents anticipate adding this feature into their design layouts. The beauty of this trend is it can be quite simple, with just a little alcove dedicated to your choice of hydration, or it can be built out to include a mini fridge, sink, and other features.

Peter Valli; Design by Jeanne Chung of CozyStylishChic

A whopping 73 percent of respondents voted quartz as their countertop material of choice. Runners-up include quartzite, granite, sintered stone, and marble. Quartz is an easy-to-clean surface thats incredibly stain-resistant and heat-tolerant. Traditional countertop edges (like bullnose, beveled, or square) will still reign but waterfall styles will also be popular. In general, countertop colors will be lighter than cabinets and be honed or matte. According to NKBA, both natural and engineered surfaces will be popular.

Weve discussed before the importance of layered lighting when it comes to other spaces in the home, but it can be just as impactful in the kitchen. Designers are now folding more layers of lighting into their plans, including ambient, decorative, and nighttime lighting. Designer and NKBA member Julee Ireland says, Lighting is the jewelry to your home and creating layers from the ground up is so important. I love to use soft LED base lighting, especially around the island, under-cabinet lighting, cove lighting, and then something unique and spectacular over the kitchen island, and some wall sconces depending on the design. Technology is also playing a huge role with the lighting selections people are makingfixtures now need to come equipped with features like motion sensing, voice activation, and programmability to fit peoples lifestyles and schedules. When it comes to how lighting looks though, 54 percent of folks are opting for gold, brass, or copper fixture colors. Runners-up include black and silver.

Quiet luxury has taken on a whole new meaning in the kitchen. Designers are now extremely mindful of the noise levels their appliances emit, in addition to other raucous design elements like banging cabinet doors. For example, when looking for new dishwashers, nearly 65 percent favor an ultra-quiet model, while 41 percent are ditching the noisy trash compactor for standard pull-out receptacles. Soft push-to-open cabinet technology remains popular with almost 44 percent agreeing that homeowners are enjoying this clean approach to hardware.

Stacey Van Barkel Photography; Design by Vicky Serany of Southern Studio

In not-so-surprising news, stainless steel is still dominating the kitchen. There was a slight uptick of other appliance finishes (like glossy white and matte black) in recent years that hinted at a possible shift but we were mistaken! Stainless steel is still the number one choice, followed by paneling to match cabinet faces. If youre wondering what styles will trend: French door refrigerators will continue to be popular, and refrigerator drawers are becoming more mainstream. Gas ranges are on the decline, and invisible induction cooktops integrated into countertops are now in demand.

Adam Kane Macchia Photography; Design by Sarah Robertson, AKBD

Something you mightve noticed lately in high-end kitchens is fancy hoodsits a unique way to make a kitchen feel truly custom. According to NKBA, 67 percent of designers will choose to make it a focal point using wood, stainless steel, or a mix of materials or metals. 56 percent elected to make it a wood or painted wood, followed by stainless at 51 percent.

Rebecca McAlpin; Design by Lori Kurnitsky, NCIDQ with co-designers Olga Carlson and Michele Plachter

Kitchen islands arent exactly a new concept, but theyre getting bigger and better, with designers incorporating more storage, electronic features, seating, meal prep space, and more. 56 percent of respondents have plans to add a kitchen island or maximize the size of an existing one in future projects. In addition to functional needs, islands are becoming a design focal point with distinct color cabinetry and/or countertop. On that note, Ireland says, The island is a focal point and an opportunity to create a work of art by using a unique piece of stone, contrasting colors, or materials. I see it evolving into different shapes with the use of unique and textural cabinetry, like a fine furniture piece for your kitchen. Sarah Robertson, principal designer of Studio Dearborn, adds, I have seen interesting developments in island design trending away from all in a row island seating and towards wrap-around seating, which has always been a favorite layout of mine.

Reid Rolls; Design by Sandra Gjesdahl

This goes back to biophilic design, which we mentioned earlier. People are wanting to connect more with nature, and large windows, glass doors and window walls will help bring the outdoors into the kitchen. 66 percent of survey takers will work in larger windows on projects.

Its hard to write a trend story nowadays without touching on sustainability, as so many industry professionals are now making it a part of their mission statements. In fact, 51 percent of respondents consider the longevity of products when purchasing big-ticket items like appliances, with the ultimate goal of fewer replacements. Meanwhile, designers are aiming to reduce consumption through water-conserving and energy-efficient products. And when renovating a kitchen, more homeowners are donating their used products, with 43.5 percent of survey respondents reporting that they donated cabinetry and 37 percent reporting that they donated appliances. On a micro level, designers are prioritizing storage for recycling (52.5 percent) and composting (23 percent) in kitchens.

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14 Kitchen Trends Taking Over the Design Industry in 2024 - Real Simple

Luxurious 2020 Parade Home on Southside! This stunning ranch style home boasts a spacious open floorplan with 9ft ceilings, and a gourmet kitchen complete with a walk-in pantry. The main bedroom is your private oasis, featuring a soaker tub, tile shower, and heated floors, as well as dual sinks in the main bathroom and a generous walk-in closet. The lower level is designed for entertainment, with a full wall bar, home office space, a large rec area, additional bedrooms, and another full bathroom. Step into your private backyard retreat with a relaxing cement patio and enjoy the covered front porch. Extra amenities include an invisible electric fence (for pets), electric shades, and all major appliances that will stay just like new. Nestled in a peaceful cul-de-sac location, this home offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience. Don't miss your chance to make it yours!

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Newly constructed houses you can buy in Chippewa Falls - Chippewa Herald