Worthwhile Connection

The Internet provided Pedersen with an invaluable source of information and suppliers for this project. "We never would have known where to look for a real suit of armor," she says. Her find is this authentic reproduction suit of parade armor from Spain that stands guard in the home’s carved stone wine cellar.

Epiphany Creators took advantage of the plethora of information available on the Internet for all facets of the design and development of their project.

"Using the Internet opens up a whole new world for the builder," says Pedersen. "It really gets you to think outside of the box and helps you discover all the different ideas that exist out there."

Pedersen and Ross point out the variety of ways a builder can benefit by using the Internet:

Sourcing. From wine cellar components, to a complete suit of reproduction armor, the Internet can help you locate new sources for all types of decorative elements.

Materials search. For hard-to-get items or new materials and techniques, you can get not only ideas, but also manufacturer specifications for all types of things ranging from appliances to flooring.

Cost comparisons. The ability to compare material costs can be a useful tool, particularly when working on a tight budget, as was the case with this home.

Background checks. Epiphany Creators was able to check the status of the licenses of all the sub-contractors that they hired. Checking credit histories is also a helpful tool, particularly in cases where large purchases are required.

Research. Pedersen and Ross were able to take a closer look at other period homes, without incurring the expense of traveling overseas.

Design ideas. "We really discovered a lot of new ideas that we never would have considered simply by touring other projects online," says Ross.

Locating artists, craftsmen. The Internet can also provide builders with the names and samples of work from artists on a local, regional or even world-wide basis.

According to architect Joseph Gorney, many builders are not inclined to tap the Internet as a source of ideas and materials. "They tend to want to do things the way they’ve always done them," he says. "I use it as a tool all the time when working on various projects. There is a lot of information out there, you just have to make the effort to find it.

"It takes somebody really driven. Someone who really wants to do something special to do the extensive amount of research that Epiphany did for this home," he adds.

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