The New and Improved Build-n-Share ARCHIVES

Build-n-Share Challenge #191 - Koi Herring

Challenge Deadline: Friday, June 30th, 2017, Midnight EST

You sit back in your desk chair knowing that despite the very unusual brief, you did your best and hope Mr Boddy would have been happy with the manor you created for him.

Rose buzzes through and advises you that your next client has arrived. You ask her to show them through. Rising from your chair, you head toward the door and you manage to open it just as Rose reaches you. She smiles a very knowing smile and introduces Ms Herring. A fairly severe looking, dark skinned, grey haired, elderly lady who looks nothing like what you had pictured from the sparse detail you had on why she needed your services.

“Ms Herring, thank you for coming into see me today.”

“You are welcome.” She says in a clipped English accent.

You pull out the seat in front of your desk, but she goes to the couch in the corner, another surprise.

“So, how can we be of service?”

“Well, my niece is coming to join me in Sunset Valley shortly and he will need somewhere to live.”

“Your niece, OK, how old is she?” You ask, thinking he must be in his mid-late thirties judging from the lady in front of you.

“She has just turned 16.”

“Are her parents joining her?” You ask, fairly sure that she can’t be expecting a 16 year old girl to move halfway across the world on her own.

“No, it’s just Koi.”

“Koi? What an unusual name.”

She sighs and you guess that she has heard this statement a number of times.

“My parents are Herrings, my brother, in his ingenuity, decided to call all of his children after fish. Koi, loves her name and her heritage, I on the other hand would rather not make a living as an angler.”

“Your parents were fishing folk?” Yes, they were bought up in South Africa and made a living off of the rivers there. They emigrated to England when my older brother was due to start school. I was born there, but I never felt like I fit in there, so I came to Sunset Valley when I turned 16. Koi was recently informed of this turn of events and has decided that she wishes to follow in my footsteps, so to speak.”
“And what’s Koi like?”

“She’s a very keen angler, so much so that she says that she wishes her home to be inspired by her grandparents home. So, she wants something a little modern but not too fancy, but there must be fish, both inside and out. She loves watching them swim, she says she finds it incredibly relaxing. I do not understand it myself, but if it is what she wants then it is what she must have. I have been working on getting her enrolled into “The School of Peace and Love.” Again, not my choice, but it suits her leanings. She is hoping to go to University and study science and medicine when she comes of age.”

“Wow, she’s certainly got her life path figured out, which is amazing for someone of her young age.” You say, hoping Ms Herring will get the subtle hint that you think Koi is too young to live on her own.

“Yes, she knows what she wants from life, that is for sure. I have managed to secure the plot of land next to my residence for you to build her home, so she won’t be too far away” You sigh inwardly, this lady does really seem to care about her niece, maybe she will do fine on her own.”

“I live at 86 Landgraab Avenue, and I have purchased number 74 for Koi. You have a budget of $50,000.” She rises from her seat on the couch and holds her hand out to shake, the meeting is obviously at an end. You advise her that the home should be ready within the month. As she leaves, you catch Rose’s eye and see a subtle raising of her left eyebrow, you smile to yourself and she shows Ms Herring out.

Brief:
Build on 74 Landgraab Avenue
2 Bedrooms
1.5 Bathrooms
Study Area
Fishing opportunities outside and fish inside
Fairly modern, but not too fancy
$50,000 (You do not need to include the cost of your lot within the budget as Ms Herring has already purchased the land)



Optional Challenge

Create Koi Herring and her Aunt, Ms Herring. All their traits and aspirations are yours to choose as you see fit!


Entry List


Beginners

N/A

Intermediates

NAME: cwaddell
LINK TO LOT: Rustic Modern with no CC
LINK TO MEDIA: Koi's House thread
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: NA
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30X40 , 74 Landgraab Ave, Sunset Valley , $49,739
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: I built a rustic modern house with a natural pond to fit the setting. The house and lot are layed out so that additions can be made easily on the right as the household grows and acquires more wealth. Furnishings were chosen to give the sims living here the nicely decorated (+25) moodlet in the bedrooms and the beautifully decorated (+40) moodlet in the great room.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: NA

NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: n/a
LINK TO MEDIA: Red Herring
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: included in above
LEVEL: intermediate (I did use CFE on the pool/pond seam. Should I bump this up to advanced for that?)
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 74 Landgraab Avenue, 30x40, final cost: 50,000
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Ms. Herring had left pictures of her parents' houses in Africa and England to inspire her niece's new home, as well as some more information about Koi herself. The house blends traditional African with rural English elements and then brought into the modern age starting with the appliances in the kitchen for Koi to enjoy the fruits - er - fish of her labors, and a full-height tropical fish tank in the living room.
The kitchen was inspired by the great fireplaces and hearths of English country houses, the kitchen being the heart of the home. This became the grand cooking area with a stove and grill, and an important element for Koi. There are goldfish in the bowl on the counter, and the dining area is kept intimately connected to the kitchen rather than divided off into its own room.
The living room walls are plain white to soften the many fabrics and colors of African decor. Here she can sit and enjoy watching the fish swim, or get down to her studies. Two large book cases to hold the many books school and college will require, and there is a skeleton for her future medical studies.
For all that she had her life figured out, Koi was still a typical teenager, and there was a balance between her Aunt's high expectations for the house and Koi's playful and friendly personality. Her room is filled with some of her favorite childhood toys, an old crab-pot as a night stand, and of course more fish. The bathroom has playful fish-themed towels, a pebble bath mat, and a fantastic shell fossil on the wall. She can keep her makeup and perfumes on the low table under the sink.
Outside has a patio to relax in relative privacy, and a large tree provides shade in the heat of the afternoon. The pond is stocked with koi, of course, as well as some other common fish, and the other side is perfect for swimming. The final touch being an old fishing boat filled with landscaping.
Koi cooked a delicious meal as a thank-you for her Aunt's generosity.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: n/a


Advanced

N/A


Results


Beginners -:
1st Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @creativemetaphor
Optional Challenge: @creativemetaphor

Advanced :
1st Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Build-n-Share Challenge #192 - By The Waterside

Challenge Deadline: Monday, July 30th, 2017, Midnight EST

There was a lot of happy laughter as your new assistant ushered your latest appointment into your office. You recognized one of them as the uber cheerful fashionista Rosie, Journye's wife.

Beside her was another gorgeous woman with long dark hair and deep black eyes. Something about her face makes you think of a few of your past clients, the Dismedousas innkeepers and the reclusive, nature loving Xantha Disthenos. Her clothing is every bit as stylish as Rosie's. Her hair and makeup are a level of natural perfection to make anyone jealous.

Rosie, after giving you a greeting hug, cheerfully introduces the woman as her partner. "This is Lilith Dismedousas."

The woman smiles and shakes your hand, "Call me Lily."

"It's lovely to meet you." You invite them to sit, and offer refreshments.

Once the requisite chit chat has been taken care of, Lily says "I have been staying at Journye and Rosie's house and I have to say it is utterly delightful. I was just going to get an apartment or rent a house, but after spending my time there..." She rolls her eyes with a grin. "I just can't. And Rosie assures me that you can give me the perfect home. We have also talked about having you do our shop when we finally get all the paperwork done."

"Is there a lot of that?" You inquire curiously. There hadn't been a ton when you started your business. “

Lily laughs, "You have no idea. But that's for later."

"Right!" You flip open your notebook. "What are you looking for?"

"Either a house on the beach or a houseboat. I LOVE water. Always have. Captain of my swim team and all that. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. I have a lot of family, some you've even done work for. They like to visit. I like beachy colors and lots of windows facing the water."

She smiles, "I'm a decent cook so moderate kitchen. I'm open minded about most things but my bathroom." Lily smiles and touches her hair. "I am a cosmetologist and my bathroom is my haven, my lab, my favorite room. It needs to be super comfortable. Lots of counter space, mirrors, big bathtub, great lighting. You get the idea."

You nod, busily jotting.

"And of course I spend a lot of time outside in the ocean or nearest pool, so I'd like my outside space to reflect that."

"Open concept?" You inquire. "Any particular style?"

"Anything but those modern block looking houses." She rolls her eyes. "I grew up in the city where everything is blocky. No thank you."

"Got it. Budget?"

"70k."

"Now, about finishes..."

Requirements
2.5 bath
3 bed
Houseboat or on the beach
No modern design
Big master bath
Beach inspired color
Outdoor living space


Optional Challenge

Create Lilith Dismedousas and show her enjoying her new space.

Entry List


Beginners

N/A


Intermediates

N/A


Advanced

NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: Vitamin Sea la vie
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: included in above
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 50x25, custom placed in Sunlit Tides, final cost: 69,497
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Inspired by tropical beach homes, this house doesn't just blur the line between indoor and outdoor living, it erases it! Living room and master bedroom feature walls which fold open to connect inside with out and expand enjoyment of both. And when you love the outdoors, this is a great mood-booster!
The main room follows an open concept with dining at the kitchen counter, and plenty of seating inside and out for entertaining and relaxing, including a fire-pit for summer barbecues. There is a cupola above to cool the house and let in additional light. Two guest bedrooms connect off the main house, with guest bath usable by the bedrooms and living areas.
The beach-side gazebo has a juice bar, and there is a small half-bath nearby so no one needs to leave sandy footprints in the house to use the necessities.
The master suite and main house are separated by a covered living deck, making the suite feel like a private retreat, with a spa-like bathroom featuring a glass-enclosed shower, elegant sunken soaking tub with fountain, plenty of counter space, and large studio closet.
Outside the master bedroom is the hot-tub deck, connecting to the living deck by a walkway which curls around a large stack of stones. One could dive right off the deck into the water, and when the whole ocean is your swimming pool, why not?
Every window offers breathtaking views of the water and island and the entire house is outfitted with speaker systems inside and out. Thatched roofing, bamboo siding, and sun-bleached wood floors make this home truly an island paradise.
(edit: I changed out the standard tub for a 'sunken tub', and reshot the pics of the bathroom, but if the first tub managed to sneak into a picture here or there, just know it's changed now. It was 'fun' doing the math for that one, I forgot to save at the time the build was finished so I didn't have a clean copy to work from. Doh!)
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: n/


Results


Beginners -:
1st Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Intermediates -:
1st Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Advanced -:
Comments
1st Place: @creativemetaphor
Optional Challenge: N/A

Build-n-Share Challenge #193 -Solstice Designer Showdown

Challenge Deadline: Thursday, August 31st, 2017, Midnight EST

So the solstice has passed and we are deep into the new season. What is August like in your part of the world? Hot? Cool? Rainy? Dry? Wherever you live, we’d like the month of August to be your inspiration for this season’s designer showdown. Don’t like the weather where you live? You can choose August in another part of the world to be your inspiration.

THE BRIEF:

20 x 30 lot anywhere
3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms residence
usual kitchen, dining and living areas and anything else you want to put in
fully landscaped
theme: August (in your description, please explain how the theme influenced your design)

BUDGET: §83,117 (lot + build cost) Can anyone guess how we came up with this budget figure?

No room or Sim challenge this time around.


Entry List


Beginners

NAME: djsdragongirl
LINK TO LOT: Home Sweet Home
LINK TO MEDIA: Home Sweet Home
Welcome Home
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: None
LEVEL: beginner to moderate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 20x30 Lot built in Island Paradise @ 25 Paradise Road. The cost for this home is $78,168 furnished and $54,759 unfurnished.
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: This is how I had always dreamed my vacation home would look like.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes I would love it
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: None used


Intermediates

NAME: cwaddell
LINK TO LOT: Beach House
LINK TO MEDIA: Builds by cwaddell - Build-n-Share #193
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: NA
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Custom 20x30 lot on the beach in Sunset Valley, it costs under $83000.
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: In the past we often escaped the hot, humid weather of August in Northern Florida by renting a beach house on the beaches in North or South Carolina. We would have family reunions there because those beaches were about half way between here and Virginia, where our families live. This is my take on a smaller, and less expensive, version of some of those beachfront houses. This one has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths a great room (living, dining and kitchen), a laundry room, a desk nook, a screened in porch, a deck upstairs off the master bedroom and a lower deck with an outdoor shower. The living room area is 2 stories high with a dramatic wall sculpture that spans both levels.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: "yes"
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: NA


Advanced

NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: An August Ago
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 20x30, custom placed in Hidden Springs, $79,912
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Grandma and Grandpa's cabin in the mountains is the perfect place to shuffle the kids to during summer break. Still furnished in comfortable 1940s styles with a variety of patters and knick-knacks, this house has a large living room with fireplace, a cozy kitchen well suited for baking and preserves with a large table to hold the family, and a main floor master bedroom with common bath.
Upstairs the kids' rooms have now become the grand-kids' rooms and a den for Grandpa to find some peace and quiet.
There is a treehouse in the backyard that Grandpa built ages ago, and the younger grand-kids still like doing backyard camp-outs around the fire, but not too far from the bathroom.
Every part of this build was infused with a sense of nostalgia, of those "better days" of childhood summers, eating green apples until you got sick and staying perpetually dirty with outdoor play; those hot August days which turned to pristine mountain nights where every star was visible.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: n/a

NAME: aricarai
LINK TO LOT: The Artisan
LINK TO MEDIA: The Artisan
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: N/A
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 20x30 placed in Moonlight Falls, §83,006
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
Leaves falling from trees, Thanksgiving, family gatherings, football season, scarves, rain, hot chocolate with marshmallows, warmth, AUTUMN. Towards the end of August, I begin to see my favorite season appearing and it gives me major feels. There's nothing I love more than being curled up with a book in front of a fireplace, listening to the rain fall outside. It's very comforting to me. August is my Autumn so I wanted to build a home that represented the comfort, coziness, and warmth of my most wonderful time of the year. To me, there's nothing more homey than a Craftsman family home.

When I first read the theme of this month's challenge, it was actually raining, which was perfect and brought a little smile to my face. Since I was born where it rains and I live where it rains; the Summer sun only peeking its head out a couple weeks of the year, I thought going back to my PNW roots would fit work well and I immediately started researching Craftsman style homes as they're found in abundance where I used to live.

The craftsmanship of a Craftsman is incredible to me and while I was building, I imagined that someone had actually put in the long hours to create the stunning millwork in the house. After finishing the home, they'd be able to proudly look at the fruits of their labor while surrounded by their family in front of the fireplace.

The color scheme for The Artisan is earthy and neutral tones (different shades of grey) and this was to allow for the woodwork to stand out throughout the build.

I hardly ever build family homes, so I'm super proud of The Artisan and I hope ya'll enjoy it! I also filmed the building process, so I hope it's okay if I come back and share the videos when they're finished (yes, videos - it'll be in three parts!)

Features:
- 3 bedrooms
- 2.5 bathrooms
- 1 car side garage
- Organically flowing semi open concept
- Kitchen with island seating
- Cozy dining area
- Relaxing study
- BBQ area
- Art space under pergola
- Small garden
- Play area for children
- Room for a meow meow
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED:
- Roof by QBuilderz
- Wood floor pattern


Results


Beginners -:
Comments
1st Place: @djsdragongirl
Optional Challenge: N/A

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @cwaddell
Optional Challenge: N/A

Advanced -:
Comments
1st Place: @aricarai
Optional Challenge: N/A

Build-n-Share Challenge #194 - The Hawthorne Project

Challenge Deadline: Deadline: Saturday, September 30th, 2017, Midnight EST

“You can do this, you can do this.” You mutter under your breath as you walk up the steps to the mansion in front of you. Ringing the bell, you wonder what will await you inside.

The door opens and a girl in an olde timey maids outfit stands in front of you.

“Uhm, I’m here to see Ms Hawthorne.” You manage to stammer.

The girl’s demeanour seems to soften slightly, you guess she’s seen many a person awestruck by the great house and it’s occupant, she opens the door further and ushers you into the foyer.

“The Missus is expecting you.” She says in a Southern drawl.

You follow her up one side of a two sided grand staircase, and down a wide corridor, as she nears what you assume to be The Missus’ room, she slows her pace and looks at you quizzically.

“Now, you best do right by her, you hear?” She speaks so softly, that you have to wonder if you imagined it, but she looks at you expectantly, so you nod.

Three succinct knocks on the closed door, and you hear The Missus say, “Enter.” The voice sounds strong and full of life.

The maid opens the door and stands to one side, and you are quite taken aback by the sight in front of you.

An elderly lady, and she is most definitely a lady, is sitting up in a sleigh style bed, she is attached to an array of medical equipment, and you hear the beeps from the heart rate monitor. But her frame is slight, and you wonder if the breeze from the open windows is likely to just blow her away.

“Ah, thank you so much for agreeing to the home visit, as you can see, it would have been difficult for me to come to your office.”

“Of course.” You say, thinking that this is a slight understatement.

“I understand that you wish to make a bequest to the community. But I am unsure as to how I fit in.” You start. Ms Hawthorne gestures to the seat by her bed and you sit obediently.

“That is correct, this community has been the rock on which I have weathered many a storm, both publicly, professionally and personally. I merely want to give something back, and I believe that you are exactly the right person for the job.”

She coughs, and the spasms that follow rack her frail body make you want to wince, but Ms Hawthorne keeps her composure, so you don’t allow the sadness and compassion you feel towards her show. She seems to approve and when she regains her breath she adds;

“I don’t know how much you know about my history, probably only what you remember from your grandmother’s stories of a giddy young girl who only ever wished to be famous. I remember your great grandmother, such a principled woman. She always used to cross the street whenever she saw me, to the opposite side of course. She couldn’t bear the thought of my loose morals rubbing off on your grandmother. Your great grandmother would have beaten poor Annmarie senseless had she known that we were great friends.”

She coughs again and gestures to a jug of water just out of her reach. You stand, pour a glass of water into a cut glass tumbler and hand it to her. She keeps your hand on the tumbler to steady it as she sips.

When she finishes, she gestures once more to the chair and you settle back, finding yourself being drawn into the story she tells you of the teenage pregnancy and child born out of wedlock, which back in the early 1920’s was a cardinal sin. She talks about your grandmother fondly and then goes on to regale you with tales of Starlight Shores in it’s heyday, her experiences trying to make it big and her rise to fame as the Heroine in Gone With The Sims.

Another coughing fit ensues and you pass her her tumbler, ensuring to keep hold of it this time and steady it for her as she drinks.

“And now, the reason for your visit. I wish to commission a number of homes. Homes for souls who are less fortunate than myself, I often find myself wondering what would have become of me, had things not turned out the way they have. So, I wish to home Simlandia’s unfortunates. You will have free reign over all the design details but I do have to set a budget for the homes. Every six months, you will be sent the details of the person or persons who are to benefit from the Hawthorne Legacy and your task is to make them somewhere that they can call home. A base from which they can improve their lives. I must insist that you include a number of items in each home to help them improve their lot in life. A computer, a garden, a chess table, an easel, at least one musical instrument and a piece of fitness equipment and a fully stocked bookcase.”

You note the must haves on your tablet and are about to ask about budget when Ms Hawthorne resumes speaking.

“Each legacy will have the same amount of simoleons for you to build their home, single legacies will have less than couples, who will in turn have less than families. A dwelling for a single Sim should cost no more than $30,000. A dwelling for a two Sims, whether a single parent with one child, or a couple, should cost no more than $35,000. A dwelling for three Sims should cost no more than $40,000. A home for four or more Sims should cost no more than $45,000.”

You type like mad, trying to get all the details committed to your tablet’s memory.

“I am not much longer for this world, I have but one regret, that I never told your Grandmother how I felt about her. Of course, it would have ruined her life as well as mine, had I been honest with her. But I feel that with your help, I can at least try and bridge the gap between our two families.”

Ms Hawthorne reaches for the bell on her bedside table and the tinkle brings the maid back to the room.

“Please show our guest out.”

Looking at you, she continues, “The Hawthorne Legacy administration will be in touch shortly with details of your first legacy client. Do take care of yourself, won’t you?” She asks with real emotion. In fact, if you are not mistaken, you think you see a tear trickle down her cheek. She brushes it away as the maid closes the door softly behind her.

You can’t help but ruminate on the task that has just been dropped on you as you make your way slowly and carefully back to the office. Rose is seated at her desk as you enter the reception area, and you check that there is nothing new that has come in while you were out, you smile and make small talk when your phone pings, notifying you of an incoming email. You glance down at it and smile as you see that it is from the Hawthorne Legacy.

“Thank you for accepting the commission from the wonderful Ms Hawthorne, please find below the details of your first legacy client.

Hi, my name is Randy Davies. My wife Jacqueline and I applied to the Hawthorne Legacy after our home was destroyed by a flash flood. We lost everything. We have been staying with relatives with our son Hamish and daughter Piper, and when we heard that we would be the ‘test case’ for the new project, we were thrilled. They said that I should let you know a bit about ourselves. I am a painter, I paint portraits mainly, but I haven’t had a commission in what feels like forever. My wife stay is a stay at home Mom looking after our children, she is pitching in around my sister in laws place at the moment, you know, cooking and cleaning for room and board, while I work as a mailroom technician. Hamish is 14, he is being amazing about the situation, but it’s very crowded her and I can tell he longs for his own space, he’s such a perfectionist that the jumble that we are living in at present is really hard on him. Piper is 6, she is such a little firecracker, always on the go. She’s more than happy being surrounded by people, so sociable and outgoing. Well, that’s my little family in a nutshell. We are really looking forward to having a place of our own again. Thank you for taking us on!

Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to working with you now and in the future.”

Brief:
A 3 or 4 bedroom home, you have free reign on how the house is built, landscaped, laid out etc.
Must include: a computer, a vegetable garden, a chess table, an easel, at least one musical instrument, at least one piece of fitness equipment and a bookcase.
The budget must not exceed $45,000.

Sim Challenge:
Create the Davies’, you have been given some information use it to choose their Life Time Wants and traits.


Entry List


Beginners

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #194 - The Hawthorne Project
NAME: djsdragongirl (Leah)
LINK TO LOT: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=9143700
LINK TO MEDIA: /en_US/home/leaving?target=https%3A%2F%2Fflic.kr%2Fs%2FaHsm3CBCBY" class="Popup
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Family is included in the house, also photo's of the family are with the house as well.
LEVEL: Beginner/Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: The final cost of the house is $44,238 (F) and $26,304 (UF), I built the house in my own personal world on a 20x30 lot, but you can place anywhere you like.
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: As you can see, the house is kind of plain. That is because Mr. Davies is a painter and he can fill his wonderful dream home full of his paintings. Mrs Hawthorne picked the Davies to be the first to recieve a house from her wonderful crew. When you enter this home you will find yourself standing in the livingroom area. Off to the left there is a small alcove for reading, there is also a computer desk and a half bath, you will also see a set of stairs leading upstairs. As you walk through the open living area straight ahead you have the kitchen and to the right you have the master bedroom with own bath. When you pass through the kitchen you will find another set of stairs leading up to the second floor where the kids bedrooms and spare room (which has the treadmill, chess table and easle for painting). There is also a full bathroom for the kids to share. You exit out the back door and find a telescope to your left to watch the night sky. To the right you find a path leading to a fenced in garden. This was the first house built for the Hawthorne Project and hopefully more to come.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes for criticism, Photo's all not always the best, but I try. Still trying to get it down as how to take them right. Sometimes I can do really good and other times, my mind slips and I lose track. I know there are some shots with the gridlines and I'm sorry about that. I took them while in the build mode to remind me where the lower roof goes and for the garden area.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: No custom content, it's all from the store


Intermediates

NAME: cwaddell
LINK TO LOT: Craftsman, 3 bed 2 bath
LINK TO MEDIA: my build thread
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: NA
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 20X20 lot in Dragon Valley. Cost is $42,519. (Cost is less so that any EA replacements for the CC will keep the total under $45,000.)
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: This modern house was inspired by the Craftsman houses built in California during the early 20th century. I built it on a 20X20 lot in Dragon Valley so that it could be placed on many sized lots in other towns. It has a large front porch with a chess table and rocking chairs so that the sims can easily socialize with any neighbors who walk by. There is a small back porch for easy access to the perfect garden plants in the back yard. Down stairs there is a great room with the living room on one side of the stairs to the second floor and the kitchen/dining room on the other side. In the back is a bathroom for easy clean up after gardening. Upstairs there is a bathroom, a master bedroom and two children's bedrooms.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: B5 Studio for items from their Grant Park craftsman collection

Advanced

NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not yet uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: Stonetroll Keep
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: included in above
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 25x25 lot custom placed in Dragon Valley, $44,968
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/16036229/#Comment_16036229
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: n/a

NAME: noisybrain
LINK TO LOT: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=9143502
LINK TO MEDIA: http://s1334.photobucket.com/user/noisybrain/library/BnS194 The Hawthorne Project
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: family link will be posted soon
Media link is the same as above
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x30, Starlight Shores, $44,995
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
The main floor living area of this adorable home features an open concept plan for the kitchen/living/dining room, 3 bedrooms including a master with an en suite bathroom and a large main bathroom with a shower/bath combo. Head upstairs to find a family lounge area large enough to accommodate an easel, a chess board and two chairs, a work area with a desk and computer, a bookcase and chair, and a workout area so our Sims can spend time together as well as increase skills. Also tucked away upstairs is a teen hangout/music room with plenty of room for a quick jam session or just hanging out. Outside living is simple with a dual swing set for the children and a partially fenced garden for the green thumb in the family.
Included in the pictures are the Davies, the first family to take part in the Hawthorne Legacy.
I left some walls bare so Randy can fill them up with his art (and I had to alleviate some of the budget, boy did I hit it lol.)
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: "yes"
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: no cc only store content


Results


Beginners -:
Comments
1st Place: @djsdragongirl
Optional Challenge: @djsdragongirl

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @cwaddell
Optional Challenge: N/A

Advanced -:
Comments
1st Place: @noisybrain and @creativemetaphor
Optional Challenge: @noisybrain and @creativemetaphor

Build-n-Share Challenge #195 - Wishes of the Dead

Challenge Deadline: Tuesday, October 31st, 2017, Midnight EST

Erisa Bonekeeper stood, silent, on the uneven ground with its patchy, weedy, grass. She didn't like what she saw.

The Old mausoleums roof had collapsed in on itself, taking part if the walls and crypts with it. The walls surrounding the cemetery were even worse, with huge gaping holes where stones had been stolen or tumbled down to be covered by weeds. The tombstones were obscured by weeds and many had fallen or been kicked over.

There was nothing left of the groundskeeper's cottage. Indeed, the only signs that humans had been there at all any time recently was the graffiti decorating some of the standing walls and the remains of some sort of ritual in the shallow cracked remains of what might have once been a pond or fountain.

More important than what she saw, however, was what she heard. "Can you hear them?"

The sudden address from the still figure you had been picking your way towards made you jump. "I'm sorry?" You ask, stopping in your tracks. The figure turned and you nearly jump aboard the nope train to destination anywhere but there.

It was not that the speaker was horrible or terrifying to look at. She was tall and slender, and, in her black coat and pants, looked almost ecclesiastical. Her hair, long and straight, is such a pale blonde as to be almost white. Her face isn't skeletal, despite her stark features and somber expression. Instead her face reminds you of a statue you once saw of an aesthetic angel.

No, what made you nearly nope out is her eyes. All black, even the whites, with silver irises that almost appear to glow. Looking into them is like looking into eternity and that is a very uncomfortable feeling.

A faint smile touches her lips as you avert your eyes. "The dead." She says, "Can you hear them?"

Her voice is surprisingly soft, gentle with a soothing note that eases your uncertainties.

"No," you say hesitantly.

"I can."

"What do they say?" Your inquiry is cautious.

"Complaints mostly." The amused exasperated tone in her voice makes you smile. "They do not like their resting place. I am hoping you can help us with that." She holds out her hand, "I am Erisa Bonekeeper. I'm the new groundskeeper."

After introductions, during which you avoid looking at her eyes, you wave a hand at the dilapidated graveyard. "So how can I help?"

"Well, for starters. I need a groundskeeper's cottage. I do not require anything fancy. Merely a bedroom, bathroom. Some place to cook and work. With enough room so I don't trip over my lady and her boys."

"Family?" You ask curiously, uncertain who would want to raise children here.

To answer Erisa lets out a loud long whistle. From different areas of the graveyard, fast and silent as fog, come three huge dogs. The smallest of the three comes to sit next to the groundskeeper. The other two flank them. At a gesture the three sit, still as statues. "This is Lady," Erisa says, stroking the back of the nearest. "And her boys Cerberus and Dante. They guard the graveyard at night."

Privately you guess them to be hellhounds. Aloud you simply say "i see why you requested space. What else do you need?"

"New fence for the graveyard. New mausoleum. I will move the dead for you as needed. Landscaping, which I will leave to you. I wish for this place to feel welcoming. When the living are comfortable coming here, so to will the dead be."

"All of that is feasible."

"Good." she looks around, "There are 12 graves here now, but the city is going to re open this cemetery and has added land to its boundaries. They have also given a budget of 45000."

"I can do a lot with that." You assure her.

"Thank you." She turns away, walking over to kneel at one of the grave stones where she begins to weed the ground.

Brief:
Create the graveyard on any lot as long as it's 30x40 or over. It must include:

• a Mausoleum
  
• a groundskeepers cottage, consisting, 1bedroom, 1 bathroom and the usual living and kitchen areas, an office space of some kind, with ample space for three large dogs
  
• landscaping
  

The styling is your choice.
Your budget is $45,000

Sim Challenge:
Create Erisa with whatever traits you thin would suit her and show her maintaining the graveyard.


Entry List


Beginners

NAME: djsdragongirl
LINK TO LOT: Not uploaded yet
Entrance to Cermetary at night
Bonekeeper Family Graves
Bonekeeper
LINK TO MEDIA: Bonekeeper
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Bonekeeper and her dogs are included in with the photo's
LEVEL: beginner
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Custom Lot built in Appalossa, cost is $39.568
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: The cemetary is divided into 3 parts, when you enter on the right is an area for all the pets (Pet Cemetary), to the left is some empty plots for new dead souls, as you continue towards the cottage you will see the Mosoluem on the right with "Grim Keepers Door", to the left you will see the Bonekeeper Family Graves. Near the back you will find the original 12 graves that have been placed already.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes please do. I know some of the photo's were taken in edit mode and show the grid (sorry)
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: None


Intermediates

NTERMEDIATE
NAME: cwaddell
LINK TO LOT: Bonekeeper Graveyard on mediafire
LINK TO MEDIA: Builds by cwaddell - Bonekeeper Graveyard

OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Bonekeeper household media link and download link
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Built as a 30X40 residential lot at 17 Maywood Lane in Sunset Valley (across from the Bunch house). Cost - $38,241
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Bonekeeper Graveyard
The graveyard has a mausoleum with a caretaker's cottage behind it with 2 dog houses for 2 of the 3 guard dogs. Currently there are 12 grave plots occupied with 12 more ready for use. There is also room for more plots to be laid out along the walkway under the willows and along the fence in the back. There are deathfish in the reflecting pool. The caretaker's cottage has a great room and bathroom downstairs and a bedroom with office space upstairs.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: for info about CC used on Erisa see Bonekeeper household media link above.

NAME: Kgaff
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded yet
LINK TO MEDIA: http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/16092930/#Comment_16092930
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: not uploaded yet - Pictures combined with the lot pictures.
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40 x 40, 2500 Pinochle Point, 44,863
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/16092932/#Comment_16092932
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED:N/A

NAME: Zayven
LINK TO LOT:
LINK TO MEDIA: https://postimg.org/gallery/26kb11fba/
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Included
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40x40, Custom placed, $44,877 furnished, $23,814 unfurnished.
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/16120647/#Comment_16120647
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: ShinoKCR, Mutske, Rirann, Ziggy28TSR, Marcorse, Sim_Man123, RicciNmbr, Ung999, Luna, SimCredible, Pilar, DOT, Murfeel, Pralinesims


Advanced

NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: Eternal Rest Memorial Park
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: included in above
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40x40, custom placement in Moonlight Falls, final cost $44,999
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/16088623/#Comment_16088623
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED:n/a

NAME: ISHTARJMD
LINK TO MEDIA: https://imgur.com/a/qokkx
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: $44055, 509 Farmer Valley Road, 40x40
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: A lovely little graveyard with a mausoleum, oriental shrine, pet area, and small grave sections for current inhabitants. The caretakers lodge features a fenced off area for her dogs. The first floor has a solarium, open concept kitchen and living room with a powder room. Upstairs is her bedroom, office and master bath.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: TSR


Results


Beginners -:
Comments
1st Place: @djsdragongirl
Optional Challenge: @djsdragongirl

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @Kgaff
Optional Challenge: @cwaddell

Advanced :
Comments
1st Place: @creativemetaphor
Optional Challenge: @creativemetaphor

Build-n-Share Challenge #196 - The Third Sister: Carrie

Challenge Deadline: Thursday, November 30th, 2017, Midnight EST

“Carrie! What a lovely surprise!” You say, standing up to greet the woman walking into your office.

“Sorry I dropped in without an appointment,”

She says, giving your hand a firm shake. Her green eyes scan the room briefly before returning to meet yours.

“Not at all. Have a seat.”

She sits, crossing her jeans clad legs. “Nice office.”

“Thank you. How did your concert go?”

“Concert?” She looks blank for a moment.

“The one you were getting set up for when Journye and I talked.”

“Oh! Went great. Had a few injuries, but that happens sometimes.”

“I hope it wasn’t serious.”

“Nah.” She shrugs it off. “Journye loves the place you did for her and Rosie. She sent pics and Rosie cant wait to get moved in. Its a pretty nice place. I was wondering if you could do something for me too.”

“Of course. What are you thinking about?”

“Well, theres an empty lot next to Journye’s. I’d kind of like to build there. I’m single, so I want to make sure there’s room to expand later if I hook up with anyone.” Carrie says with a grin, brushing a lock of dark brown hair out of her eyes. “So, I guess for starters…Master bedroom with en suite. I think that’s what they’re called. The attached bathrooms?”

You nod, “En suites.”

“Open concept living area, you know, where everything is all one room? Decent kitchen. Comfy furniture for hanging out in. Maybe another bathroom or something so I don’t have people going into my room to use the toilet.”

“Sure. Any color scheme?”

“I like earth tones. Um, nothing too modern but not frilly either.” She thinks for a moment, “Could I get a pool too? And a fenced in yard? Tall fence. I don’t want people peeking in when I’m swimming.”

“Sure. Did you have a budget?”

“Journye said you did a miracle with 45k, so lets go with that.”

Requirements:
Budget 45k
Earthtone color schemes
Pool
Fenced in yard
Security system
Master suite
Half bath in the main area
Open concept
Optional: Show the 4 Sisters having a pool party in Carrie's new back yard

You can read more about the other Sister's Of The Apocalypse here and here.


Entry List


Beginners

NAME: djsdragongirl (Leah)

LINK TO LOT: https://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=9162639
Carrie Logan
LINK TO MEDIA: 4 Sister's of the Apocalypse Logan's Dream
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE:
LEVEL: beginner
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: The house is built at 254 Foothill Drive in Starlight Shores. It is built on a 40x40 lot and total move in cost is $44, 310
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Carrie Logan is on of the 4 Sisters of the Apocalypse. She has been wanting her own place for a while now and with Journye having her own place she figured it was time she got her own place. So Carrie's home is open and roomy. I had to spare on furniture so she doesn't have much right now, but she does have seating for when the girls get together at her place. She has a large fenced in yard where the girls can practice when they want to, lots of room to expand later if she hooks up with someone and decides to have a family later. Carrie loves Earthy colors so her home reflects that. Her traits are; Virtuoso, Diva, Perfectionist, Natural Born Performer, Ambitious.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes please continue to give me criticism.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: None


Intermediates

NAME: cwaddell
LINK TO LOT: not yet uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: Prairie House
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: NA
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30X20 , 378 Skyborough Blvd in Sunset Valley, $41,126
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Prairie House - It has a great room with kitchen, dining and living areas and 1 bedroom with an attached bathroom. There is also an additional smaller bathroom with shower on the main floor. There is a pool in the backyard surrounded by a high fence. For added privacy and security a burglar alarm is installed on the front porch. There is also a basement with roughed in exercise area, bath and recording studio with sound booth that can be completed when the client has more funds. There is enough room in the great room for the band to jam together. There are 3 areas for potential expansion.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: B5 Studio for windows and exterior doors from their Grant Park craftsman collection

NAME: Kgaff
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.flickr.com/photos/154029363@N06/albums/72157688993311234
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a (unfortunately I deleted the Four Sisters challenge to make room for new things
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x30, 20 Hidden Grove Lane, Riverview, 44,986
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
I went with a semi modern contemporary style of house this time. I choose this because it can be modern, comfy and traditional all at the same time.
Carrie is a brave daredevil with a very friendly side. I also thought of her as athletic and loving the outdoors. I think her house brings the outdoors in with lots of windows and a patio with a vine covered pergola. Back yard landscaping is minimal in order to keep the backyard open for sports.
The open floor plan works well in this small house giving small area a light and airy feel. Instead of doing a formal dining room, I thought a huge island with a bar and seating all around would be fun for her. My tester sim tried it out and it works great.
As far as expansion goes, there is plenty of room left on this 30x30 lot or the house could easily be placed on a larger lot. The master bedroom is large enough for two with the en suite bathroom with walk-in shower.
There is a second room currently being used as an office that would be easily converted into a second bedroom should the need arise.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A



Advanced

NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: Inside Out
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 18 Maywood Lane, Sunset Valley - 20x30. Final cost: 45,000!
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/16133878/#Comment_16133878
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: n/a

NAME: JasonAnthonySterling (Tonysterling on the Exchange and Gallery)
LINK TO LOT: https://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=9161921
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/pg/MyWorldofSims/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1450658215049598
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: N/A
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Custom 25x25 Lot Placement in Bridgeport $44,997
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
One bedroom/ One and One Half Bath home with open living/kitchen/dining and pool. Privacy fenced. More details and my thoughts behind what I did are attached to the photos in my gallery link above.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: No
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A


Results


Beginners -:
Comments
1st Place: @djsdragongirl
Optional Challenge: @djsdragongirl

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @Kgaff
Optional Challenge: N/A

Advanced -:
Comments
1st Place: @creativemetaphor and @JasonAnthonySterling
Optional Challenge: N/A

....Archive Listings Continued

Challenge #190 - Mr Boddy's Mansion

Challenge #191 - Koi Herring

Challenge #192 - By The Waterside

Challenge #193 - Solstice Designer Showdown

Challenge #194 - The Hawthorne Project

Challenge #195 - The Wishes of the Dead

Challenge #196 - The Third Sister: Carrie

Challenge #197 - Familia

Challenge #198 - Sparks

Challenge #199 - For The Love Of Fabric

Challenge #200 - The Age Of Aquarius

Challenge #201 - The Hawthorne Project Part II

Challenge #202 - A Fairy Tale Cottage

Challenge #203 - East Meets West

Challenge #204 - Dream A Little Dream

Challenge #205 - Back to Basics

Challenge #206 - We Need Some Space

Challenge #207 - Back to their Roots

Challenge #208 - Fall Designer Showdown

Challenge #209 - Twas the Month of December

Challenge #210 - Life After Life

Challenge #211 - Five by Five

Challenge #212 - Settlement for Simanity

Challenge #213 - Young Minds

Challenge #214 - The Tables Have Turned

Challenge #215 - Breaking Out Of The Box

Challenge #216 - The Family Emergency

Challenge #217 - Man Cave

Challenge #218 - The Travellers

Challenge #219 - A Truth Universally Acknowledged

Challenge #220 - N/A

Challenge #221 - Nicholas's Tiny Problem

Challenge #222 - Solving the Senior Situation

Challenge #223 - A Chalet Getaway

Challenge #224 - Spring Designer Showdown

Challenge #225 - A Tiny Hangout

Challenge #226 - Star Struck

Challenge #227 - Oceanside Resort

Challenge #228 - 50 Shades of Grey

Challenge #229 - La Casa Dello Splendore

Challenge #230 - Alien Encounters

Challenge #231 - Fall Designer Showdown

Challenge #232 - The Collection

Challenge #233 - A Winter Festival Miracle

Challenge #234 - Winter Designer Showdown

Challenge #235 - The Bradley Bunch

Challenge #236 - Empty Nest

Build-n-Share Challenge #197 -Familia

Challenge Deadline: 31st December 2017

At first, it was just a slight rumbling. A shaking of the pictures on the walls and the rattling of dishes in Abuela's old heavy china cabinet. It wasn't scary. It was even kind of fun, despite the fear in Madre and Papa's voices. But then a second rumbling happened. This one was larger, scarier. The glass in the windows cracked and the neighbour's dog began to howl. Papa's hands were rough, but his voice was very quiet when he said "Now stay here. You'll be safe here. I will let you out soon." Then he shut the door. It was very dark in the very small closet. Papa yelled for Mateo.

Scarier, more violent shaking happened. There was a lot of noise. The sounds of heavy things falling, crashing. So very noisy. Papa said it was safe. He was right. Then the shaking of the ground stopped. Papa didn't come. There were smaller shakes, but then they stopped too. Madre didn't come. Neither did Abuela. And the door didn't open. Hunger came. And thirst. And fear. But no Madre. No Papa. No Abuela. Even Mateo, who liked to play jokes and go to the beach, didn't come.

After a long time, the door opened again. It was very bright and there were strangers in bright jackets. But the house was gone. The walls had fallen in. The ceiling. The china cabinet had fallen over and all her pretty dishes were smashed. And Madre, Papa, and Abuela weren't there.

You stare at the 10-year-old girl across from you. Her name is Sofia Rivera, and she sits on your couch holding the hand of her 8-year-old brother Adrian. Both have long black hair and huge brown eyes. "They said that Madre and Papa and Abuela were gone. And they couldn't find Mateo." Her bottom lip trembles.

You nod, "What happened next?"

Adrian speaks up next. Like his sister, he speaks simlish very well, but with a heavy accent. "The nice strangers told us that it wasn't safe to stay in our neighbourhood. That they were going to send us someplace we would be safe while they looked for Mateo. But the people that we were sent to stay with. They weren't very nice. The mama, she hit Sofia for arguing with one of her children. We decided to go find Mateo ourselves."

"And that's how you two ended up rummaging through my trash can in the middle of the night?" you ask kindly.

"Si, ma'am." Says Sofia. "We're sorry. Please don't send us back."

"Of course not!" you assure her. "You're both going to stay here with me until we find out about Mateo. Do you know how old he is?"

"Si, about 17."

"Mateo's your big brother?"

"Si."

"Ok," you glance at the clock. "Ok.Its very late and you shouldn't be out this late. Let me show you two to a bedroom to sleep in. In the morning we will work on finding your brother. I think I know someone to call."

With the two siblings tucked into the same bed upstairs, you go into your home office and flip through your contact list. The phone doesn't ring very long before a jolly voice says "Ah hello!"

"Hello, Kris! How is Mrs Kringle?"

"She's doing just fine." He booms, "What brings you to call me this fine winter night?"

"I need a favour. Can you find someone for me? A 17-year-old boy named Mateo Rivera. He has 2 younger siblings, Sofia and Adrian, who are here with me." You quickly sketch out the story to the sympathetic presence on the other end of the phone. As you tell the story, you grab a piece of paper and start to doodle.

"Well, you've done so much good for others over the years, that it’s the least I can do. I remember Mateo. He used to try to stay up and catch me for a long time. A good boy. Very responsible. Very loving." His voice turns from jolly and reassuring to serious. "But where will they go? They have no home. From the reports I've heard, that entire village was levelled."

You smile, "Leave that to me, Kris. How long will it take for you to find him? Do you know?"

"I will have him there by Christmas," Kris assures you. You know him well enough to know that if Mateo was at all alive, even injured, Kris would work a miracle to reunite the tiny family.

"Then I'll have everything ready by then." You say, already laying out plans.

BRIEF

• Your budget is $40,000
  
• 3 bedrooms
  
• 2 baths
  
• 20x30 lot or smaller
  
• Backyard for 2 children to play in
  
• Style of architecture and interiors completely up to you
  

Optional Challenge
Create Mateo, Adrian and Sofia and tell us a bit about them.

Entry List

Beginners

NAME: djsdragongirl (Leah)
LINK TO LOT: https://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=9162639
Carrie Logan
LINK TO MEDIA: 4 Sister's of the Apocalypse Logan's Dream
Entrance to Carrie's Home
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Pool Party
LEVEL: beginner
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: The house is built at 254 Foothill Drive in Starlight Shores. It is built on a 40x40 lot and total move in cost is $44, 310
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Carrie Logan is on of the 4 Sisters of the Apocalypse. She has been wanting her own place for a while now and with Journye having her own place she figured it was time she got her own place. So Carrie's home is open and roomy. I had to spare on furniture so she doesn't have much right now, but she does have seating for when the girls get together at her place. She has a large fenced in yard where the girls can practice when they want to, lots of room to expand later if she hooks up with someone and decides to have a family later. Carrie loves Earthy colors so her home reflects that. Her traits are; Virtuoso, Diva, Perfectionist, Natural Born Performer, Ambitious.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes please continue to give me criticism.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: None


Intermediates

NAME: cwaddell
LINK TO LOT: not yet uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: Prairie House
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: NA
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30X20 , 378 Skyborough Blvd in Sunset Valley, $41,126
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Prairie House - It has a great room with kitchen, dining and living areas and 1 bedroom with an attached bathroom. There is also an additional smaller bathroom with shower on the main floor. There is a pool in the backyard surrounded by a high fence. For added privacy and security a burglar alarm is installed on the front porch. There is also a basement with roughed in exercise area, bath and recording studio with sound booth that can be completed when the client has more funds. There is enough room in the great room for the band to jam together. There are 3 areas for potential expansion.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: B5 Studio for windows and exterior doors from their Grant Park craftsman collection

NAME: Kgaff
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.flickr.com/photos/154029363@N06/albums/72157688993311234
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a (unfortunately I deleted the Four Sisters challenge to make room for new things
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x30, 20 Hidden Grove Lane, Riverview, 44,986
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
I went with a semi modern contemporary style of house this time. I choose this because it can be modern, comfy and traditional all at the same time.
Carrie is a brave daredevil with a very friendly side. I also thought of her as athletic and loving the outdoors. I think her house brings the outdoors in with lots of windows and a patio with a vine covered pergola. Back yard landscaping is minimal in order to keep the backyard open for sports.
The open floor plan works well in this small house giving small area a light and airy feel. Instead of doing a formal dining room, I thought a huge island with a bar and seating all around would be fun for her. My tester sim tried it out and it works great.
As far as expansion goes, there is plenty of room left on this 30x30 lot or the house could easily be placed on a larger lot. The master bedroom is large enough for two with the en suite bathroom with walk-in shower.
There is a second room currently being used as an office that would be easily converted into a second bedroom should the need arise.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A


Advanced

NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: Inside Out
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 18 Maywood Lane, Sunset Valley - 20x30. Final cost: 45,000!
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: I decided that she hated having to tend a yard - all the mowing and weeding! So the yard consists of wood, stone, and water - the only plants are in containers or water-loving that don't need much attention, though she has plants all throughout the indoors as well. The only bit of landscaping is in the front yard to help it blend with the neighborhood.
The entire house was built to blur the lines between the outdoor and indoor spaces, with almost solid windows along the back to let the natural light in and capture the view overlooking the yard which has ample living space to expand into, perfect for entertaining small, intimate groups.
Inside, the home features an open living area with a futon-inspired sofa, a low coffee table, and lots of pillows for maximum comfort around the fireplace. There is also a two-story bay of windows with window seats. The kitchen has the usual appliances, plus a dish washer and coffee maker. The dining area has a table for four beside a 'green wall' where an indoor plant that has grown quite all over the shelves there. Also on the main floor is a powder room just off the entry hall and next to the stairs.
Upstairs has the main bedroom and en suite, plus a large loft rec room - the one space where she can not worry about keeping things in order. Here she can chill and watch tv, do aerobics, play her bass, or work on business stuff, all while enjoying the natural light and view of her back yard. If she ever needs it, this area can be framed in to become a future guest bed and bath.
The master suite also has a view overlooking the back yard, with curtains for privacy when required, creating a cozy bay window. Cushions and pillows soften the edges of the master bedroom. A glass-enclosed shower with built-in seat, stone floor, and toilet room offer a sense of indulgence in the en suite.
The back yard uses three levels to separate the spaces. The main deck off the kitchen has an outdoor shower, training dummy, and yoga mat for exercising in the fresh air. The raised deck juts over the pond below and has seating for four, next to a juice bar. The ground level has a fire pit and grill. There is also a partially curtained lounge area surrounded by the pool, offering seclusion and relaxation to anyone willing to get wet to get there.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: n/a

NAME: JasonAnthonySterling (Tonysterling on the Exchange and Gallery)
LINK TO LOT: https://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=9161921
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/pg/MyWorldofSims/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1450658215049598
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: N/A
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Custom 25x25 Lot Placement in Bridgeport $44,997
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
One bedroom/ One and One Half Bath home with open living/kitchen/dining and pool. Privacy fenced. More details and my thoughts behind what I did are attached to the photos in my gallery link above.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: No
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A


Results

Beginners -:
Comments
1st Place: @djsdragongirl
Optional Challenge: @djsdragongirl

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @Kgaff
Optional Challenge: @Zayven

Advanced -:
Comments
1st Place: @mederouin
Optional Challenge: @creativemetaphor

Build-n-Share Challenge #198 - Sparks

Challenge Deadline: 1st February 2018

'Why? Why did I do it?' you moan silently to yourself, your forehead resting on the surface of your drawing table. Your office is silent, except for the ticking of your clock, an artful piece gifted to you for Christmas. You listen intently to each second, counting them down in hopes that the aspirin you took would soon kick in and chase away the results of spending New Years at The Curtis's.

You knew that Douglas Curtis the 3rd would throw a massive shindig with enough champagne to swim in. But you couldn't get out of it. Your former receptionist, Rose, Douglas's new wife, had personally invited you. What else could you do but go? And of course, you had many old clients there. Clients who seemingly conspired to keep your glass full.

And now you're paying for it. 'Why won't the aspirin hurry up?' you whimper softly, closing your eyes. You wouldn't even have come into work today but you had scheduled a meeting with a potential new client. Silence, save for the ticking of the clock. Peace. Just as you felt yourself starting to drift off, the painkillers finally starting to pull the leading edge of the pain, your phone shrills.

Nearly frantic to end the ear piercing sound, you knock your coffee cup (thankfully empty) into your pencil container, spilling the pencils all over your desk. Finally, the sound, normally so pleasant, stops when you pull it up to your ear. "Hello?"

"Hello. This is Sparks. You asked me to let you know when I was at your front door." replies a warm male voice.

"Oh yes. I will be right out." You assure him. And you are true to your word. After a hurried scramble to clean up pencils and cup.

Sparks, as he introduced himself, turns out to be a good-looking man of apparently early forties, with a charming but professional smile. His smile matches the well-tailored suit that pretty much screams "Successful businessman." With the size of his company and his reputation in the technology field, you expected someone who looked older. His entire demeanour is relaxed and friendly as you lead him into your office and offer him a seat. Yet his sharp brown eyes don't seem to miss a detail, or the few pencils that fell to the floor that you missed in your frantic cleanup.

"Thank you for seeing me on New Years. I am grateful you were able to squeeze me in." He says, crossing his knees.

"Not at all." You assure him. "I understand you were in town on business."

"Well, mostly to visit my adopted daughter and her husband. You built a house for them. Aisu and Reggie?"

"Oh yes! I saw Aisu and their children in the supermarket yesterday."

He smiles, a smile less professional and more proud. "My grandkids. I won't lie and say that they aren't a big draw for the reason I'm here to see you today."

You pick up a pen, "And what can I do for you today Mr.Sparks?"

"Just Sparks," he said, brushing brown hair back. "I'm relocating my corporate headquarters here. I want to be closer to my family and this is a good place for my employees to raise their families. I need an office building." He chuckles as your jaw drops. "I understand that's a huge undertaking but I'm not asking you to decorate the entire building all at once. For now, I just need the building, a lobby and a penthouse office. As more of my employees transfer here, we will decorate their offices individually."

"So we're just starting with your office and the lobby?" you ask.

"That's correct."

"All right. Any particular style?"

"I'd like the exterior to blend in with the town. I also don't want a skyscraper, so no more than 4 floors. I'm looking to make my company part of the community, and that should start with our building. The interior I'd like a mixture of Asian and modern. Welcoming, but still crisp and clean. In my office I'd prefer a color scheme based on blues and whites."

"All of that is very doable." You assure him. "Can you give me a month?"

Sparks looks pleasantly surprised, "That would be great. Thanks."

"One more question."

"Yes?" He asks curiously.

"Whats my budget?" You smile.

"150,000 for the lobby, penthouse and office building."

BRIEF
150k budget
Office building no less than 2 floors and no more than 4
Decorated penthouse with a color scheme based on blues/whites.
Decorated lobby
Prepared areas for additional offices.
Landscaping
The building should blend into the town that you choose to build it in.

Optional Challenge
Create Sparks, from the details you have been given in the breif above and show him taking in his new offices.

Entry List

Beginners

N/A

Intermediate

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #198 - Sparks
NAME: Kgaff
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.flickr.com/photos/154029363@N06/albums/72157689604226512
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40x30, 200 Ely Road, Riverview, 149,984

LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: This three story office building is built on the banks of the Simomon River. Using natural materials to break up the concrete facade helps this technology business blend into the countryside without being too over whelming.

The front of the building welcomes visitors with wood, water and plants surrounding a water feature. There is an enclosed patio for the future employees to enjoy on the side of the building.

The lobby is decorated in a warm and friendly Asian style with traditional wall papers and furniture, while still maintaining a fresh a modern appeal.

All the offices are currently divided by half walls with glass partitions and have plenty of natural light from the large windows. If private offices are required it's an easy fix to build a wall or two.

Sparks' private office suite features a separate secretaries office and conference room. His private office has an office area divided by glass screens to a comfortable more relaxed sitting room with mini fridge and bar area. His private bathroom features a shower and a closet for those extra changes of clothes. Outside is a private patio with exercise equipment, a table and chairs with beautiful views of the town.

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #198 - Sparks
NAME: ElleDaes
LINK TO LOT: n/a (it’s an incomplete build and won’t be uploaded until it is finished)
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/pg/ElleDaes/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2001818516725087
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: https://www.facebook.com/pg/ElleDaes/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2001830293390576
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 120 Beverley Boulevard, Los Aniegos. Final Cost: $150,000 (It dropped to 142-ish after I left the lot to upload it, but I'm sticking with the original price; I used every simoleon.)

LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: 4-Floor Office Building for Spark Tech. I envision Spark Tech to be a modern, team-oriented tech and engineering company. Which means it will have all the fixins for the modern lifestyle. The beautiful thing about choosing to work and build in Los Aniegos is that the architectural style is so diverse that it is fairly open to the architect’s whim. I chose a modern, clean exterior and kept the interior light and fresh.
But, for now, it has:
Ground Floor: Exterior Parking for visitors, Underground Parking for the Team. Future space for kennel and day care. Fully Landscaped.
Lobby floor: Features a Grand Lobby with comfortable waiting area, coffee bar, terrace public restrooms, conference room, coat room, records room, mechanical room and stairs and elevator. Check out the mosaic.
Tech floor: Open and waiting for future instructions on team offices, kitchen, bathroom, terrace and views of the surrounding Los Aniegos.
Penthouse: Private office suite for E.L. Sparks. An oasis of blues, whites and warm woods, the penthouse boasts an impressive desk for impressing upon the underlings, a team meeting area, lounge, private records room, closet, private bathroom with shower and private deck with 360 degree panoramic views of the city.

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: None

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #198 - Sparks
NAME: Zayven
LINK TO LOT:
LINK TO MEDIA: https://postimg.org/gallery/39v8lil6u/
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Not this time, sorry!
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 35x25, Starlight Shores custom placed, $148,996 furnished, $121,184 unfurnished

LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Ultimately, Starlight Shores felt the best choice for joining in with the community and desiring a modern type of design with the color scheme I wanted to work with. After a lot of time spent studying design images in google and a few TV shows later, I started seeing what was possible with what I had in mind, and I ended up loving what happened. I tried to pick one country, Japan, to blend cultural aesthetic with modern design. (I don't know how well I succeeded, but that was the intention, since Asia is so huge and has a large diversity in culture and aesthetics.) Minimalism, gardens, woods, and other things I can't quite put into words ended up the themes I found in decorations, while their modern architecture is just amazing.

The ground floor is parking, entrance gardens, and main lobby. The second floor will be the offices. One of the current design themes I saw was multi-level office floors and abandoning the cubicle system (such as sunken desks, main level walkspaces, ladders up into crawl/quiet spaces, etc all in a single floor of space, a few references: https://tinyurl.com/yaso9p9e + https://tinyurl.com/ybwuz2ag + https://tinyurl.com/yaqsd9na) I started trying to build an office floor with three different levels but it quickly became very out of budget, so I kept the most common split I saw, which was sunken work spaces surrounded by community walkways and spaces. The third floor will the break room and garden space. I had to make the garden space this round since it's technically an exterior space and a large visual feature. The fourth floor is the penthouse with Spark's lobby space and his office, with an en suite bathroom, naturally. There's a small space with the secretary where guests can help themselves to refreshments. I saw one corporate bathroom that I fell in love with and did the best I could within budget to re-create.

Note: I had a few visual glitches trying to screenshot that weren't there in build mode. I tried to troubleshoot it, but only succeeded at a few of them. I'm sorry!

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: Mutske, ung999, lulu265, alex_stanton1983, sim_man123, simcredibledesigns.com

Advanced

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #198 - Sparks
NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipNA7Z7NPdSjFI_B3m3mtY7_HtNnlldgzDMq2jSAeYGactpXniZxZZXwbxLZCgM8GQ?key=Q0s0bzl2NlN1RlZxQkh0OWpYYXFKYl9BeFVkeDlR
(still learning google photo, please let me know if the photos do not seem to be displaying in correct order or the text is not visible and I will correct immediately!)
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: pictures included in above
Isaiah Sparks built his company on the belief that if you treat your employees well, they will treat your clients well, and your business will prosper. His traits are disciplined, perceptive, charismatic, ambitious, and computer whiz. Lifetime wish is, of course, CEO of a mega-corporation! His favorites are blue, classical, and grilled salmon; and he is a Sagittarius.
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Custom placed 30x30 lot in Aurora Skies, $149,965

LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Sky Terrace Building combines traditional and modern office building elements to offer a unique and eco-friendly addition to the town of Aurora Skies. The architecture blends in to the surrounding commercial buildings, but also does not clash against the traditional buildings and homes nearby. It features a three-story lobby core of windows, topped by solar panels, with balconies overlooking one another, and green, growing rooftops for greater ecological friendliness as well as enhancing the office environment for the employees.

The main level lobby contains the reception area with guest counter, waiting area with fireplace and refreshment counters, and a single restroom for privacy. Every attempt to make employees, guests, and clients feel welcome and comfortable has been made.

There is access directly from the parking garage, which holds both cars and bikes for those who want a green commute. An elevator ensures equal access to all floors, while the stairs allow for those who need to get their steps in.

The second floor holds the future offices of staff, including HR, IT, finance, marketing, and a conference room. It also provides an employee lounge and open central courtyard with corner fountain feature where employees can relax, enjoy nature, and take their lunch when the weather is good. Each office has green roof outside their windows and a view of the courtyard across the hallway. Both natural light and greenery gives a pleasant office environment to the employees.

The penthouse level lobby offers a view down to the main floor lobby below and a restroom. There is a board room with podium and white board with a private terrace for high-level meetings, collaborations, and educational seminars. Across the lobby is Sparks' secretary and waiting area for clients.

Sparks' office is a full executive suite in relaxing blue and white against black. There is a wet bar for refreshments, a table for small client meetings, and of course his desk with guest chairs. He is a firm believer that classical music enhances work performance and keeps a radio nearby. There is also a private bathroom with a shower for after his workouts. Keeping in shape is important both physically and mentally, and his terrace has a treadmill so he doesn't have to schedule additional time for the gym. It also has a lounge chair for relaxing and enjoying the view of the ocean.

(Did you know you can't put phones on a commercial lot!? I didn't know that. I have never in my life worked for a company that didn't have phones! I decided the phones were more important than a couple of the items that the commercial lot offered, so this building is actually zoned residential. So I could have phones. Seriously, you need phones in an office! How else is reception supposed to call Sparks to let him know his meeting has arrived?)

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #198 - Sparks
NAME: linday
LINK TO LOT: n/a
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.flickr.com/photos/154826530@N02/sets/72157662522020637/
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x30, 90 Sonora Street, Lucky Palms. Final cost § 150 000 on the dot!

LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Built on a 30x30 lot in Lucky Palms, this 4 story office building borrows design elements from the neighbouring community lots, such as the fencing, friezes, columns and landscaping, thus blending in with the more modern part of town. The lot has parking space for up to 4 cars.

Two grand staircases leads up to the entrance on the first floor, where the reception area is. Behind the reception area is an empty room, suitable for bigger meetings or conferences, or possibly even a staff recreation area. The reception area also holds a seating group for people waiting.

The ground floor is currently unfurnished, awaiting further development - it can either be decorated as an open office space, or walled off to make additional offices. The second floor contains empty office spaces, as well as furnished shared bathrooms.

On the third floor you will find the penthouse office, with a waiting area, secretary space, conference room and a private bathroom and balcony. The entire top floor is decorated in a dark blue and white color scheme to meet the client's request. The interior is modern with an asian flair.

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: No thanks, I know I am a bit rusty! xD
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: Nothing I know of.

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #198 - Sparks
NAME: MeestorMark
LINK TO LOT: Not uploaded yet, N/A
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.flickr.com/gp/159174096@N06/46nH9L
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: No optional challenge for me at this time.
LEVEL: Advanced, CFE is a long time friend, we exchange Christmas gifts.
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40x30, 235 Starry Way in downtown Starlight Shores, final cost: just a shade under $144k

LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Looking around Starlight Shores for information on the whole "wants it to blend in to the community" requirement, I came to the conclusion that there are a LOT of different styles in Starlight Shores. Each of the buildings in the downtown, business area kind of stand out on their own, with style vibes anywhere from 1940s to 1970s. There was one commonality in the buildings, they all made a statement. So the headquarters of Sparks Company, must also make a statement to "blend in" with all the other different buildings busy making their statements, with some retro vibe thrown into the mix.

I picked the late 50s to early 60s for my time frame. This was the time when exposed concrete was making its presence known in the exterior and interior designs of many buildings. It was also a time of profound interest in the space program. So those are where I took my inspiration cues as the exterior was designed.

Inside, I stayed with exposed concrete in many common areas, but with embellishments of other textures at high statement areas such as the main reception and in the executive office areas. The request for blues and whites was taken seriously and implemented in the penthouse office suite. The blues I went with should go well with many of Mr. Sparks power suits. Plenty of refreshment opportunities abound in the penthouse so Mr. Sparks can impress future clients and corporate officers as well as lubricate them with equal ease. Glass tops for both Mr. Sparks' desk and the conference room table will impress without being overstated.

In the name of providing a good work environment for employees, plenty of windows abound for "staring-outside-for-inspiration" moments. There is also an on-site coffee cart for employees, as well as locals, to purchase much needed caffeine. Not that Mr. Sparks plans to overwork the help, but because we will assume most employees of such a progressive company will stay up way too late playing video games and/or bingeing their favorite episodes of whatever. The on-site vendor will keep them running in tip-top, bouncing, efficiency in spite of any poor bed-time planning in their personal lives. Or... If Mr. Sparks does in fact, make the help stay late on occasion.

Left over money in the budget was spent showing how future spaces could be used. The first floor has an area designed for a potential first-rate training room, complete with a sample white board ready for all kinds of marker mayhem. Off to the sides of main reception are two public restrooms as well as two wings that would be great for future corporate officer stomping grounds. The second floor has sample cubicles in place to prove that while the building and the company may be progressive, there is still potential for soul-crushing cube farms if the need should arise. Two more wings would also be great places for yet more future corporate officers to stomp. Or maybe these future offices won't be quite so flashy and cater to more "middle management" types.

Parking for visitors out front. Each space is separated by shrubberies in an effort to keep the insurance claims for door-dings to a minimum. I doubt this will have much impact on Mr. Sparks actual business insurance premiums. Underground parking is available for future employees and executives. Can't have too many rain spots forming on those company cars after all.

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, I am rusty, so bring it on.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: It has been sooooo long since I downloaded the CC I have that I don't remember names or if in fact many of the items come from the EA Store, or are, in fact, CC. The only thing I used that I am sure is CC are the mirrored floors in the conference room. I don't remember the name of the awesome, awesome, awesome creator of those wonderful things though.

Results

Beginners -:
Comments
1st Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @Kgaff and @ElleDaes
Optional Challenge: N/A

Advanced -:
Comments
1st Place: @linday
Optional Challenge: N/A

Build-n-Share Challenge #199 - For The Love Of Fabric

Challenge Deadline: 1st March 2018

Rose was buzzing with excitement. "I can't believe it! We are going to have a celebrity asking us for help!"

"Relax Rose!" You laugh, "It's not as if we haven't done work for VIPs before. Just take a few breaths and try to behave just like you would with anyone."

"But it's not anyone! It's one of the Modas! They are THE name in the fashion world!" he protested.

"I didn't know you were interested in fashion," you say, even more amused.

"Who doesn't like to look good?" she says, smoothing down her smart blouse absently. "But they are rich, famous and they make fashions that look good on anybody who happens to put on one of their designs, no matter what body type they may sport."

"I'm afraid I'm going to disappoint you then," says a voice that carries a slight accent and is smooth as melted chocolate. You both turn to see the middle-aged man standing in the doorway, holding onto the chimes so they didn't give him away. He smiles genially. "I am Joao Moda. I believe I am here for a 3 pm appointment."

Rose looks like he wants to walk in front of a passing bus. You however simply smile and hold out your hand to greet him. "Mr. Moda, welcome. Why don't we talk in my office?"

As Rose sees to the coffee, you assess your latest client. He's a good-looking man with dark hair, suntanned skin and a brilliant smile. HIs clothing is entirely in black but cut with a style that makes you, who are normally a snappy dresser, look a bit shabby. But it's his shirt that really interests you.

"You like my suit?" He asks, catching you studying him.

"Yes. It looks great!"

He grins, "Its 15 years old."

Your mouth drops open. "It looks brand new!"

"Thank you!" Joao thanks Rose for the coffee and sips it. "You see, I am an oddity in my family. Everyone else is a designer of this fashion or that. I...am a dud. I can't design my way out of a paper bag." He grimaces.

"I imagine that makes things difficult from time to time," you say sympathetically, remembering the teasing of your own siblings.

Joao nods then brightens. "However I am the best in the family at sewing and tailoring. So I turned my attention to that end of things. I developed a love for fabrics, rather than design. How does it feel on the skin? How does the color wear? Will it stretch? Will it sag? How does this one need to be taken care of as opposed to that one? Will this color fade? Or can it take multiple wears? It is all fascinating! And along the way, I developed several ways of taking care of fabric that ensures the longevity and shape.
"Which brings me to you. I'm tired of the hustle and bustle of my family's factories. I've decided that I need a break. So I would like to build a laundromat."

"A..laundromat?" You stare at him. Your mental images of laundromats, hot and filled with the scent of lint, don't seem to match with this classily dressed man.

"A laundromat. So I can help educate people on how to best to take care of their clothing or do it for them if they need. With a section for tailoring." He says confidently.

"Well, that's something we can certainly do..." You say, pulling out your pen. "Let's talk about design..."

Brief:
Build a laundromat
No less than 5 washers and dryers.
A take in section
A tailoring/ dressmaking area

Your budget is
§75,000
$85,000

Sim Challenge
Create Joao Moda, using the information above.

A reminder to use the entry form as is. If you are adding any pictures, please limit them to two per entry post and place them at the bottom of the entry form.


Entry List

Beginners

N/A

Intermediates

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #199 - For The Love of Fabric
NAME: Kgaff
LINK TO LOT:
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.flickr.com/photos/154029363@N06/albums/72157663875040747
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 15x30, 658 Lakefront Drive, Twinbrook - 78,563
(I bulldozed the laundry that was on this site)
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: The Laundry Basket
The laundromat side has six washers and dryers. There is a counter at the front door for take-ins and a drive-thru for easy drop offs.
There is a bookshelf, a table game and a small patio for whiling away the hours it takes to do your wash.
If you need any tailoring or alterations/repairs stop next door at Moda Tailoring.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: none used

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #199 – For the Love of Fabric
NAME: ElleDaes
LINK TO LOT: https://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=9195708
LINK TO MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/pg/ElleDaes/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2015569122016693
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: To be added later
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST:
1750 Sunset Boulevard, Los Aniegos.
$85,000
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
Washmoda is an extravagantly appointed laundromat that will satisfy even the most diehard Modafans, while paying homage to Joao Moda’s meticulous techniques and eye for fabric care. One Floor with ultra high ceilings, this Art Deco Building, situated in down town Los Aniegos, boasts top of the line appliances; dedicated work spaces for folding, ironing, and prepping; private yard for hang drying those delicates; a take in and tailoring section; office space; bathroom; kitchenette; and lounge. Easy listening music permeates, while open concepts and gathering spaces invite patrons to converse, read and relax. Patrons of laundromats don’t often get to experience the lifestyle that is standard to a Moda. Let them indulge.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: None

Advanced

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM #199 - For The Love of Fabric
NAME: creativemetaphor
LINK TO LOT: not uploaded
LINK TO MEDIA: https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipOjG1efx_wqV-wdj0Ri7Qcxl-ka7LGRIQgvH3TfGkQvJJSAXo13uFjAO2YCavt12w?key=NEoySkdPTDdvUW5tbkljRnVZbEZEaWVfQ2I4MVJR
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Custom placed 25x25 lot, Sunset Valley - Final cost: 84,465
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Sunny-Side Suds wants you to have a bright and relaxing laundry experience. The blues and yellows evoke a sunny day and the sea-inspired patterns provide a calming environment for what is otherwise a somewhat dour chore.
There is a take-in counter for dry cleaning drop-off and pick-up, with a main office behind it connected to the dry-clean area. The lobby opens to a central hall with vending for snacks while you wait, and two restrooms.
Just inside the laundry area is a seating area with magazine racks for waiting between loads, as well as two wall-mounted TVs, and a radio. The laundry area is divided into stations with washer/dryer, laundry cart, folding counter, sink, and hamper. There are two types of washers/dryers for varying types of washing requirements, and of course a variety of washing liquids or powders to aid the laundry-goers.
The last area is the tailoring/dress-making, with a large cutting table with four work-stations. Around the perimeter are counters with a wide array of fabric choices, both on shelves and on hangers to show off the season's newest offerings. The far corner holds an accessories area for coordinating shoes, make-up, slips, and nylons. The drafting table allows for all-new pattern drafting, and the styling station to put it all together. There are also 4 changing rooms - after all, no one wants to try on partially finished clothing in full view of everyone!
The building as a whole has a fresh feeling, skylights allow additional lighting in, and landscaping surrounds the parking area. The whole building is meant to make laundry and sewing as pleasant an experience as possible.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: n/a

Results

Beginners -:
Comments: N/A
1st Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @ElleDaes
Optional Challenge:N/A

Advanced -:
Comments
1st Place: @creativemetaphor
Optional Challenge: N/A