The New and Improved Build-n-Share ARCHIVES

Challenge #160 - The Workout Zone

Deadline: Wednesday 28th January, Midnight CMT

Settling down in your visitors area with a cup of coffee and your portfolio, you feel proud of all you have accomplished in such a short time. Flicking through the pages you spy gorgeous colonial architecture, elegant Victorian spires, industrial chic, an interesting take on penthouse living and of course your very own custom built office. But what what challenge is going to come next?

After ten minutes, your coffee cup is drained and you are sat back at your desk awaiting your next client. Rose knocks on your door and shows her in, wait, that’s Judy Olsen. What is she doing back so soon?

You cross to the door and take her hand, “Judy, it’s lovely to see you again, is everything OK with the apartments we built for your and Don’s parents?”

“Oh yes, they are all so thrilled to have their own space, yet still be so close at hand. There have been some tense times, but things all seem to be settling down now, which is why I’m here.”

She takes a seat as Rose reappears with a tray of coffee and some tiny little caramel tartlets. Judy takes one look at the tray and laughs! “Oh my! How perfect!” She exclaims.

Intrigued, you arch your brows at her, inviting her to elaborate.

“Well, Don and I were thinking we could both do with losing a little weight, you know after all that holiday overindulgence!”

Thinking of all those extra calories you consumed over the period, you nod encouragingly.

“We want to start our own little gym! A place for people with like minds to gather, work out and chat. And we want you to build it for us.”

“We’ll need some space for classes, a weights room, an area devoted to cardio and of course some changing rooms and showers. We were also thinking about having a separate little juice bar come cafe for those who want to try and live a healthier lifestyle, but aren’t quite ready to take that step into the gym. What do you think?”

“I think it sounds wonderful and I am sure that you will be inundated with members. Did you have any thoughts on styles, colours and so on?”

“Well, we don’t want a modern space, too many gyms look so intimidating and perfect that people can be a little hesitant to even step foot inside. We just got back from Monte Vista, Don’s parents got engaged there and we were hoping you could try that Mediterranean style?”

This could be a bit of a challenge, you think to yourself. But you also think that it would perfectly suit the brief, so you nod and ask, “What about a budget?”

“Well, how does $175,000 sound?”

“Like you will have the most tricked out charming gym in Sunset Valley! We’ll get started on it immediately, I think we should be able to get it completed in two weeks for you, ok?”

“Perfect, now let me eat one of these charming little tartlets, Don doesn’t need to know does he?” She says with a wink.

Your Brief:

A Mediterranean style build with two separate buildings, on a 40x30 plot in Sunset Valley. The larger of the two is to be a comfortable gym, the smaller a café/juice bar.

The gym needs to include space for classes, a weights room, an area devoted to cardio and men's and women’s changing rooms and showers. It will need a reception area and an office for all the paperwork.

The café/juice bar needs to have a bar, tables and chairs, an office and a food preparation area. It will also need it’s own toilet facilities (bear in mind that this is a food preparation area and as such you will need two doors separating the main area from any WC).

Your budget is $175,000.

Sim Challenge:
We would like to see Don and Judy (you can find out all about Don and Judy here) in their newly created space and other Sims enjoying the gym and café, these can be Sims you have created or Sims already present in the game. We will need a picture of each area in use.




Official Entry List

Beginners

None


Intermediates

NAME: ElleDaes
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8565112
LINK TO MEDIA: s112.photobucket.com/user/smwsda/library/Build-N-Share%20Challenge%20No160%20The%20Workout%20Zone
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Sim Challenge. You will find pictures of the Sunset Valley Community throughout the above media including plenty of Judy and Don Olsen (who were all over the place autonomously). So many sims showed for the opening it was impossible for some pictures not to include them without setting the lot to no visitors allow.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITISIM: I'm new to sharing my lots, having previously kept them just to myself, so I'd love any feedback in order to make my lots better. And if you like it, please toss a thumbs up on it!


Advanced

NAME: ArikaB
LINK TO LOT: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8565793
LINK TO MEDIA: http://s957.photobucket.com/user/ArikaB1/library/The Workout Zone BnS 160?sort=9&page=1
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes, please

NAME: Soocoolsim
LINK TO LOT: thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8566209
LINK TO MEDIA: s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/Elegant%20Mediterranean%20Gym/story
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Pictures including Judy and Don included in the link above.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes thank you


Results

Beginner
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Intermediate
Comments
First Place: ElleDaes
Optional Challenge: N/A


Advanced
Comments
First Place: Socoolsim
Optional Challenge: N/A

Challenge #161 - Aisle Remember

Deadline: Wednesday 11th February, Midnight CMT

Your stomach growls, making you glance at your watch and wonder when Rose will be back with lunch. A tentative knock on your office door catches you by surprise. You rush to open the door in Rose's absence and find a slight, wisp of a young woman with alabaster skin, white-blonde hair and pale gray-blue eyes on the other side. She is an unusual beauty. Ethereal.

“I-I'm so sorry to intrude, but I wondered if you could help me,” she stammers, a faint worry line between her brows.

“Of course!” you say. “Please come have a seat and tell me what I can do for you, Ms...?”

“Lauren. Lauren Addler.” You shake hands, take your seats, and gesture for her to continue.

“Well, I recently got engaged to the love of my life, Mark Holloway.”

“That's wonderful!” you exclaim, confused by the shadow that crosses Ms. Addler's face.

“Normally, I would have months to plan the perfect wedding, but I only have two weeks. My father was diagnosed with a terminal, degenerative illness, and his condition is getting worse every day. He desperately wants to walk me down the aisle and give me away at my wedding, but we're running out of time. I had originally dreamed of a beautiful outdoor beach wedding, but my father would have difficulty walking on uneven surfaces in his condition. I've looked all over town for an indoor venue that would work, but I've come up empty. Would it be possible to build an all-inclusive wedding venue for both the ceremony and the reception and complete it in two weeks?” The look of worry on Ms. Addler's face has grown more intense.

“Absolutely,” you reassure her, clasping her small, clammy hands in your own. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, it needs to be easy for my father to navigate, so if it has multiple levels, there must be an elevator. I'd like a beautiful hall for the ceremony, maybe with a romantic beach influence, blues and greens and sand tones, and lots of candlelight. We'll need a separate room for the reception with dining tables, the wedding party table, a buffet, a dance floor, a bar, and perhaps a live band. We have a budget of $175,000. Is that even possible?”

“Not only is it possible, but you can consider it as good as done. I will make some calls on your behalf and then be in touch with you soon.” Ms. Addler appears on the verge of tears as she thanks you and rushes off to look at wedding dresses.

The Brief:
40x40 community lot in the world of your choosing
Large hall for the ceremony
Reception room with
dining tables
wedding party table
buffet
dance floor
area for live band
Must be handicap accessible (*Note: if you do not have elevators in game, just build a small 2x2 room with doors on all levels to look like an elevator.)
Must have parking and restrooms available for guests
Romantic beach theme with candles and blues, greens, and sandy tones.
Budget of $175,000

Optional Challenge
Create Lauren, Mark, and Lauren's father and show the wedding and the reception. Lauren is good and a hopeless romantic. Mark is friendly and charismatic. Lauren's father, James, is family oriented and clumsy. The rest of the traits are up to you!


Official Entry List

Beginners

N/A


Intermediates

N/A


Advanced

NAME: Mederouin
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8579268
LINK TO MEDIA: s1380.photobucket.com/user/mederouin/slideshow/Build%20and%20Share%20161
(Password: Idoforever) Note: is case sensitive
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please

NAME: Soocoolsim
LINK TO LOT: thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8579895
LINK TO MEDIA: s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/Classy%20Beach%20Wedding%20Venue/story
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE:
Ceremony - s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/Classy%20Beach%20Wedding/story
Wedding Album - s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/slideshow/Classy%20Beach%20Wedding/Classy%20Beach%20Wedding%20Album
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes


Results

Beginner
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Intermediate
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Advanced
Comments
First Place: soocoolsim
Optional Challenge: soocoolsim

Challenge #162 - The Innkeepers

Deadline: Wednesday 25th February, Midnight CMT.

“Turn left.” chirps your GPS as you cruise through town. Obediently you follow instructions, mentally reviewing the information for your up and coming appointment. ‘A renovated home to be turned into a B&B…This should be interesting. 2 clients. Apolla and Yanna Dismedousas…I wonder if they are related to Xantha? I’ll have to ask. Long time partners, moving here from Greece. Want to open a bed and breakfast and bought the old Scarborough house.” You glance out the window as the road curves gracefully around hills. “Pretty area. Quiet for those who want it but not far from town…Holy mother of- Is that it?!”

You stop your car abruptly, staring at the structure on the hill. For a few moments, all you can do is stare. The designer and esthete inside you aches as you pull your car over to the side of the road and get out. It's a large, sprawling building and you note good basic design structure, but dear gods. Whoever owned the house before did not do the house justice! Between the dirt brown paint, the weed-choked lawn…You pray that they got it cheap.

“Ugly as homemade sin isn’t it?” An amused female voice next to you makes you jump. Smiling at you are your clients. The one who spoke holds out her hand, “Hi. I’m Apolla. This is Yanna.”

As you shake hands and go through the usual greetings, you study the pair. Apolla, with her dark hair and eyes has a mouth made for smiling. There’s a little bit of mischievousness and playfulness about her that doesn’t detract from the warmth they both exude. Yanna is clearly the more stable of the two, with calm gray eyes and short blonde hair. Her grip is firm and reassuring.

Amenities completed, Apolla gestures to the building, “So, what do you think?”

As you struggle to find something nice to say about it, Yanna nudges her partner. “Polly, stop teasing.” Then smiles at you, “We know, it doesn’t look very much like an inn. We’re hoping you can help us with that. Let's go inside.”

“I’ll certainly do my best. What kind of spaces does it have?” as the three of you begin the climb up the walkway to the front door.

“Central room, open kitchen, 3 car garage, in-law suite over the garage, 2 rooms next to the large open living room, 6 bedrooms, including one in the finished basement and a lot of space to work with.” Recites Apolla. “Brace yourself. They were, uh, creative with their paint jobs.” and pulls the door open for you.”

“Wow.” Is all you can think to say as you go from room to room on the main floor.

“Yes,” says Yanna. “We know. It's horrifying. I think they bought all the paint and lighting on sale in bulk. And that’s the polite thoughts.”

You chuckle and try to look past the paint and the huge, clunky central staircase.

After completing the tour, you turn to the pair, “So, what would you like to see in the house after I’m done?”

“A non-tacky paint scheme and more than 2 styles of lights?” Polly says with a laugh.

“I can guarantee that.”

Yanna squeezes Polly’s hand. “We’d like to have at least 5 guest suites, and by suite we mean with a bedroom and a bathroom at minimum. A place for Polly and I to live, like a little apartment. Updated kitchen…”

“Porches! This beautiful area cries out for porches for sitting, basking and enjoying outdoor activities.” Polly chimes in. “Landscaping obviously. The last people who owned the house, the Scarborough's, just couldn’t keep up with everything so they let it go. Updated windows, doors. I’d love to have a few small balconies for some of the suites if it wouldn’t destroy the look of the place.”

“The whole design is a Shingle design style.” You say, making notes. “Any particular interior design style you want?”

“Something warm, welcoming,” replies Yanna. “Casual, so people feel at home, but still upscale so people know they’re getting a treat. We’ll be serving breakfast and dinner, so a dining area needs to remain. Maybe an outdoor kitchen if you can swing it.”

“Yanna’s a fabulous cook,” boasts Polly. “If you could do a color scheme with white and yellow in our personal quarters that would be great. Those are our favorite colors.”

“Anything else?”

“I think that about covers it,” Yanna says. “Oh! We were lucky. We talked to the company that built this place. They’ve got all their blueprints online now. The plan number is HWEPL69109 at eplans.com.

“We want to appeal mostly to couples and/or adults, but at least one room to accommodate kids if someone wants to bring the whole family.” Polly says as the three of you walk back to your cars.

“I think I can have this done in a few weeks. What kind of budget do you have in mind?”

“I think we could swing about (insert budget here.)” Polly shakes your hand again, “We’re really excited to see what you bring about.”

“Me too.” You say, before casting one last look at the house on the hill.

Download house here: https://www.mediafire.com/?4tajj3idocqa5c4

Requirements:
Budget, not including the cost of the downloaded lot:
Complete remodel!
Updated kitchen, living areas, bathrooms, windows, doors
Porches
Innkeeper’s suite
Landscaping

Optional:

Show Yanna and Polly welcoming guests to their lovely inn.
Polly: black hair, dark eyes. 3 traits: Friendly, Neat, Clumsy. Favorite color: yellow
Yanna: Short blonde hair, gray eyes. 3 traits: Natural Cook, Friendly, Bookworm. Favorite color: white.

Official Entry List

Beginners

N/A


Intermediate

N/A


Advanced

NAME: ISHTARJMD
LINK TO MEDIA: http://wp.me/p34lt9-ib
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: No
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes

NAME: Soocoolsim
LINK TO LOT: thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8594852
LINK TO MEDIA: s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/slideshow/Terrace%20Heights?sort=6
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: NA
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes


Results

Beginner
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Intermediate
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Advanced
Comments
First Place: ISHTARJMD
Optional Challenge: N/A

Challenge #163 - Life After Uni

Challenge Deadline: Wednesday 25th February, Midnight CMT.

As you walk, head down towards your office, fumbling for your keys, you hear someone call out your name.

You think you recognise the voice, but you aren’t sure until you are bundled into a huge bear hug by a handsome young man.

“Kaiden!! What on earth are you doing here? Why aren’t you at school?”

“It’s Spring Break! I’m home for a week or two and thought I must come and see my favourite architect.”

Knowing that your adopted nephew is in his final year of a fine arts course, with a bias towards the culinary, you wonder if there is any chance you can finagle an invite to the Johnson’s home for dinner before he heads back.

Unlocking the office you notice that Kaiden heads straight for the coffee maker, he always did know how to make himself comfortable.

As he brings you your favourite coffee, he mumbles “I bought you something.”

As he reaches for the backpack he placed carefully on Rose’s desk, you wonder what he could have in there for you.

He opens the bag and pulls out a small Tupperware container.

Food! You think to yourself, already salivating at the thought of some of Kaiden’s previous creations.

He hands you the box and you see inside there is a tiny little house, made of spun sugar.

You open it very carefully and find that it is almost a carbon copy of the home you created for him when he first moved to college. You gaze at him speechless, feeling tears well up and your throat constricting.

“I just wanted to say thank you, for the house, I know I already said it a thousand times, but I thought you might like a little keepsake. It's given me the freedom I needed to keep my GPA up, and I met someone through it as well."

You detect a slight blush as he tells you about his new love, Aimee. He seems completely smitten.

"Anyway, the real reason I am here, is that I have been offered a job, in Oasis Springs."

"That's fantastic news." You say with feeling.

"Aimee and I were wondering if you could maybe build us a home over there?"

So this thing with Aimee sounds serious.

"Of course! I would be honoured. What sort of thing were you thinking of?"

"Well, we were thinking two bedrooms, we both love open plan living, so nothing too compartmentalised. Aimee is hoping to find a position on the Oasis News newspaper, so she'll need an office to work out of at home. And, of course, my kitchen."

You note the pride when he talks about his own kitchen.

"Any colour schemes, or style ideas?"

"Well, Aimee just loves bright, bold colours, but I'm not such a big fan, so if you can keep us both happy..."

"I'm sure I'll be able to think of something. What about architecture style?"

"Nothing too modern, neither of us wants to live in a white box, but then we don't want an old world cottage either."

With ideas swirling around your brain, you reassure Kaiden that you will definitely be able to get the project finished for him to go and see before the end of spring break.

"I knew you were the right person for the job, thanks again."

"You are more than welcome, you know that Kaiden. And I can't wait to meet Aimee."

"You sound like my Mom!" He says with a laugh.

He is leaving as Rose enters the office, Kaiden gives her the same beat hug that greeted her, and with promises of arranging a barbeque before he heads back to college, he leaves the office smiling.

"I always liked that boy." She says fondly.

"I know Rose, I know. Now I must go and give Kaye a call, see what she knows about this new young lady..."

The Brief
* 2 bedrooms
* Separate office
* Kitchen fit for a gourmet chef
* Open plan
* Choice of architecture nothing too modern or too old-fashioned
* Combine Aimee's love of colour with Kaiden's slightly more sensible ideas
* $85,000 budget


Official Entry List


Beginner

NAME: choco_bear
LINK TO LOT:
LINK TO MEDIA: http://s278.photobucket.com /user/ \rocket_babie/library /BnS%20Challenges?sor t=3&page=1
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE:
LEVEL: beginner
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 25x25
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: small lot with a beautiful starter home at the center. A fairly neutral color palate with splashes of color in furniture and accents. Open floor plan with living, dining and kitchen all connected. A separate office perfect for writing reviews and news articles. Nice large master bedroom with windows open to a green hilly view. 3 piece bathroom with art-deco flare. Spare room with natural flare and a beautiful view of the hills. Gourmet kitchen with island and extra seating and a view over the sink. A yard equipped for entertaining. Includes a new charcoal grill and a pizza oven perfect for making food to eat at the picnic table and around the fire pit towards the front of the yard. A sandwich board to let guests know what is on the menu for the day. A nice bench at the back for romantic morning coffee or evening glass of wine under a willow tree.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM:yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: various downloads from h tt p: //sims resource . com

Intermediates
N/A

Advanced

NAME: ISHTARJMD
LINK TO LOT: https://www.mediafire.com/?zv5sg79z0hyoscx
LINK TO MEDIA: http://wp.me/p34lt9-ku
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: NA
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40x30, Redwood Pkwy, $84,889
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: A lovely 2 bedroom 2 bath open plan home done in soft inviting colors. It also features a brightly decorated office, a sunroom and a gazebo.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: TSR

Results

Beginner
Comments
First Place: @choco_bear
Optional Challenge: N/A


Intermediate
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Advanced
Comments
First Place: @ISHTARJMD
Optional Challenge: N/A

Challenge #164 - A Taste for Finer Things

Challenge Deadline: Tuesday 31st March, Midnight CMT

You are engrossed in the latest issue of Dwell when Rose’s dog begins barking frantically in alarm. You rush across your office and throw open your door to see a tall, spindly man with a very unhappy white cat hissing and digging its claws into the man’s shoulder. Rose is trying desperately to restrain her uncharacteristically agitated dog and shoots you a look that clearly says HELP!


“Why don’t you come in my office, sir,” you say, motioning to the office behind you. The man rushes past you into the office. As soon as the door closes, the cat becomes docile and begins to purr. Like its owner, the cat is long and thin, with white fur, faint gray striping, and the largest ears you’ve ever seen on a cat.

“What a peculiar cat. I’ve never seen one like that before, Mister..?”

“Corbett. Niles Corbett. My companion is Buerre Blanc. She is a Devon Rex.”

“It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Corbett. I apologize for the welcoming committee. My assistant's dog is usually very friendly, but this is the first time we've had a feline visitor. What can I do for you?” Mr. Corbett is a sour-looking man with a long face, a heavy brow, and a small down-turned mouth. His clothes are understated but clearly made of fine fabrics.

“Well, I'm in need of a new home for myself and Buerre Blanc,” he says, stroking the cat's pale fur. “I am a professional food critic and author of the blog Pour l'assiette. I work from home, so I need something with a comfortable study. I would also like two bedrooms, one with an en-suite bathroom, and another full bathroom for the rest of the house. I don't need a lot of room, as it's just Buerre Blanc and me, but I would like quality furnishings and a well-appointed kitchen with an attached room for wine storage. I am a collector of fine wines, so the wine storage should have separate temperature controls.”

“Is there a particular style of home you prefer, Mr. Corbett?”

“I gravitate toward French Country architecture. I enjoy the stately architecture and formal aesthetic.”

“What kind of budget are we dealing with, and how soon would you like your new home completed?”

“Apartment life has grown quite tiresome for me. Buerre Blanc and I are both ready for the quiet of our own home. We would like to be out of our apartment in two weeks. As for the budget, I am prepared to spend up to $85,000 and not a penny more. I trust that is feasible?”

“Absolutely! I will get started immediately!”

THE BRIEF:
20x30 lot, in the world of your choice
$85,000 budget
French Country style architecture
2 bedrooms, 1 with en suite bathroom
1 extra full bath (a total of 2 bathrooms)
Well-appointed kitchen with separate wine storage
Study
Living Room
Dining Area
Garage
Fine furnishings

OPTIONAL CHALLENGE:
Create Niles Corbett and his cat Buerre Blanc (if you have Pets) and show them living in their new home. Niles is a natural cook, a loner, and a snob. Buerre Blanc is friendly, lazy, and neat.

Official Entry List


Beginner

N/A

Intermediate

NAME: Vannared
LINK TO LOT: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8608795
LINK TO MEDIA: http://vannaredsim.blogspot.com/2015/03/164-taste-for-finer-things.html
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8608796
http://vannaredsim.blogspot.com/2015/03/164-taste-for-finer-things.html
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 37 S. Falls Way Moonlight Falls world final cost was $84,972.
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
A snobby food critic, Niles Corbett should love to entertain, but.... he's a loner.
What can you do.....?
Well... drink more nectar for one.....He loves his nectar. And his cat, Buerre Blanc,
her friendliness is really all one could need anyway.
The wine closet is climate controlled and the ceiling would be open with exposed beams but EA has yet to make that possible.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: none that I'm aware of.
I became aware that spelled many things wrong AFTER I uploaded them. :P.....

NAME: iampes23
LINK TO LOT: will not load-I will update if the website changes it's mind
LINK TO MEDIA: http://s97.photobucket.com/user/iampes23/slideshow/164
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: n/a
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x20, placed lot in Riverview, $84,995
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: This house was built using a floor plan which had to be adjusted to fit the lot. The original was a three bedroom. Due to the inability to place a wall to square off the hallway and still keep the angle of the kitchen, the closet is a strange shape.
Niles Corbett is a food critic who loves to cook. He and his cat required a French Country 2 bedroom, 2 bath home including a room to store wine off the kitchen and a study. Since he feels that retro is chic, many of his rooms take you back to yester-years. His cat Buerre Blanc wants space for Niles to grow plenty of cat plum! This house has fulfilled their wishes!
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: no cc


Advanced

NAME: Soocoolsim
LINK TO LOT: thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8615985
LINK TO MEDIA: (slideshow) s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/slideshow/Ma%20Belle%20Maison
OR s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/Ma%20Belle%20Maison/story
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: See links above for a day in the life of Niles and Buerre. Note: Kitty furniture just for gameplay testing - not included in the lot. Link to sims => i82.photobucket.com/albums/j261/soocoolsim/Ma%20Belle%20Maison/Corbett%20Sim%20and%20cat_zpsvivakzsn.jpg
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30 x 20, added smaller lot on Pinochle Point (Sunset Valley), $84,954
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Simple on the outside, luxurious on the inside. This delightful 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is perfect for the wine connoisseur and includes a wide variety of grape vines in the vineyard. Formal livingroom and diningroom, well appointed bedrooms, one with simple ensuite, full powder room on the main floor, cosy study, elegant kitchen with attached wine room.
Note: The pics for this entry show the house at the budget limit for judging purposes. The lot uploaded on the exchange has a 3rd bedroom nursery, 3rd bathroom and a grape press added for making homemade wine
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: No CC, no CAP

NAME: Mederouin
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8616838
LINK TO MEDIA: s1380.photobucket.com/user/mederouin/slideshow/Build%20and%20Share%20164
(Password: Winery) Note: is case sensitive
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: N/A
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30 X 20; 12 Willow Lane, Hidden Springs; Cost: 84,328
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: For this challenge, first off I actually made the extended deadline so yea, :) but anyway I had fun with this one. For this build I wanted to do something smaller and more like a cottage than a chateau. I feel like Niles would appreciate the more tranquil and homey vibe. For this reason I chose to furnish in a more simply and cottage-like way (At least I hope that how it reads) To me fine furnishings aren't just high back chairs and marble -top tables, they are well wrought and simplicity personified. Basically not a lot of bells and whistles or flashy patters, but just quality pieces. So in the end I made a home that was more a home than a showpiece. Someplace to relax and enjoy a nice glass of wine.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A



Results

Beginner
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Intermediate
Comments
First Place: @VannaRed
Optional Challenge: @VannaRed


Advanced
Comments
First Place: @soocoolsim
Optional Challenge: @soocoolsim

Challenge #165 - Ryunoten, Attorneys at Law

Thursday, 30th April Midnight CMT

The intercom beeped at your desk, startling you out of concentration. “Ah, yes Rose?”

Hearing the faint quaver in your voice, she suppresses a snicker and says “Your 4:30 is here. Shall I send them back?”

“Um, yes. Go ahead.” You manage to recover your dignity, making sure to save your work carefully, before there is a polite knock on the door. You stand up with a smile, as a man and a woman enter the room.

The woman is lovely, with a mass of coiled copper braids pinned at the back of her neck and large soft colored eyes. Her willowy figure is clad in an lady like business suit of sky blue. Following her in, his hand gently on the small of her back, is a handsome man that could only be described as Prince Charming with an Asian touch. His blonde hair is slightly longer than custom and his equally sleek frame is clad in a slate grey suit that compliments his companion’s. They make a very stunning couple, an impression confirmed when he holds his hand out, “Michael Ryunoten. This is my wife Evangeline.”

You shake hands with a smile, “Its lovely to meet you. I understand that you’re both lawyers?”

Evangeline smiles, a soothing gentle smile that relaxes you even further, “Yes. Michael specializes in business law. I have been fortunate enough to be hired as a new district attorney here.”

“Congratulations!” you say, offering them both something to drink.

“Thank you,” she says, locking eyes with you for a few moments. With an oddly sleepy wonder, you realize that her eyes are slowly changing from one pastel color to another.

“Jesus is an old friend of mine,” Michael says, startling you out of your sleepy hypnosis, “He recommended you.”

You smile with pleasure, “So you’re looking for a house?”

Evangeline shakes her head, sipping at the tea she requested in place of coffee. “Not yet, but definitely we are going to consult you about that later. We are staying at Jesus’s home and we love what you have done. For now, we are more interested in asking you to build us an office.”

“Not a problem,” You click your pen and prepare to take notes, “What would you like?”

“2 separate offices, but in the same building, as we share a legal library,” Michael says, “I’ll be taking clients there, so I’ll need a lobby and/ or reception area. Dream will be primarily working at the Courthouse, but when she’s not there she needs to have some place to work.”

“Dream?”

She smiles fondly at her husband, “Dream is my nickname. My maiden name was Keeper.”

“Ahhh. And what would you like in your office?”

“Oh, the usual office accoutrements. If you could include a comfortable couch and decorate it in restful colors, I would be very satisfied.”

“That’s easily accomplished.”

Michael speaks up again, “We want to be close to the center of town, but have a more suburban feel to it. I want people to feel comfortable and at ease coming to talk to me. Oh, parking, and landscaping…I think that’s everything. Sweetie?”

She thinks for a few moments, ticking off points on her fingertips, then smiles. “I think that covers everything.”

“I do have one question we haven’t covered.” You smile, “What budget am I working with this?”

“Well, since its not a large office we’re looking for,” Evangeline says, gently setting her tea cup on the tray, “We set aside $80,000 from our budget. Will that be sufficient?”

“Should be fine.” You rise and shake hands with them again, “I’ll get a contract emailed over to you by tomorrow night.”

Brief

- 2 offices in the same building
- Shared library
- Reception area
- Parking
- Suburban look but close to center of town
- Soft colors and a couch in Evangeline’s office.
- Budget: $80,000

Optional: Create and show Michael and Evangeline enjoying their new offices.

Official Entry List

Beginners


Intermediates

NAME: ElleDaes
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8645236
LINK TO MEDIA: 112.photobucket.com/user/smwsda/Build-N-Share%20Challenge%20No165/story
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Not included.
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Lot Size: 30x30
Address: Final play test on 12 Scuba Street, Island Paradise.
Final Cost: $80,000
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS:
Theme: Modern, but welcoming. This lot is designed to fit in the in-between of the suburbs and urban big city. The building boasts floor to ceiling windows, plenty of natural lighting, oak and brushed nickel accents, and a relaxing color palette. Random selection has it placed in IP, but could easily fit into any city.
The first floor includes a reception, waiting room, conference room and public bathrooms. There is a front reception desk for support personel to welcome clients and collegues into the building. The expansive waiting area includes three short couches, a digital display, a java station, and a library. The conference room seats up to eight sims and includes a digital display for presentations and demonstrations. Two single use bath rooms are located down the hall from the conference room, each assigned to a separate gender. Emergency signage and exits exist at the front and back of the building.
The second floor includes two offices, two private baths, one outer hallway, and one shared records room/legal library. Michael Ryunoten's office is set up for receiving clients, with a desk, computer and guest seating as well as a mini conference area for consultations with clients. Evangeline Ryunoten's office also has a desk, computer and guest seating, but a couch and living chair in place of a conference space.
The exterior includes the AC unit, electrical, parking, building sign, exterior lighting and landscaping. There are six parking spaces in the well-lit lot. Landscaping includes a bed by the front entrance, fully green and fertolized lawn, and a planter that wraps three sides of the building which doubles as fence and window display for the floor to ceiling windows.
The lot is set as no visitors allowed, but would function well as a library, hang out, java hut, etc.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: NO CC or CAP


NAME: iampes23
LINK TO LOT: na
LINK TO MEDIA: coming asap
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: na
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x30 6 Cherrywood Lane in Twinbrook $79,995
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: tell us about your build, include any details and rationale that might not be obvious from your pictures
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: cc from TSR and MTS as well as my own patterns


Advanced

NAME: Soocoolsim
LINK TO LOT: thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8639068
LINK TO MEDIA: s82.photobucket.com/user/soocoolsim/slideshow/Law%20Office%20and%20Library
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Pictures in link above show the clients in their new office and their open house reception.
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30 x 30. 38 Van Glen St. (Roaring Heights), $79,956
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: I'm into 3D lots so had a bit of fun with this one to create something unusual. Since Michael and Evangeline are lawyers, their office represents the scales of justice. The main floor reception desk welcomes their clients who can also go along the right corridor to freshen up in the washrooms before meeting their lawyers. To the left of the reception is the entrance to the elevator. The middle block of the second floor houses the visitors lounge and a snack and bar area great for cocktail and fundraising parties. Michael and Evangeline's offices are to the left and right of this area in separate wings. The top floor houses the shared library and research area.
Have your Sims purchase this lot as additional real estate - you can use the 'motherlode' cheat code to give them a 'loan', lol. If you set the lot type to Library lots of sims will visit to quietly read. To host parties, you can set this as a Park or other appropriate lot. I have Into the Future so I assign this lot as a Business Park. There usually is a lineup to purchase food so you might want to add a buffet table
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: NO CC or CAP

NAME: ISHTARJMD
LINK TO LOT: http://www.mediafire.com/download/4nn6t2915vp5pcz/Ryunoten,_Attorneys_at_Law.Sims3Pack
LINK TO MEDIA: http://wp.me/p34lt9-lm
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: None
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x40, 260 Sunnyside Blvd, $79,529
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: A very pretty and suburban style building. Lovely gardens lead you to a courtyard where the main entrance is located. A second keyed entrance is available for Evangeline to come and go. There is a foyer and waiting room, An office for Michael, an office for Evangeline, a large shared library, 3 bathrooms, a conference room, and a kitchen for lunches. There are several touches of Asian art and furniture throughout, a nice tribute to Michael's heritage.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: TSR


Results
Beginner
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A


Intermediate
Comments
First Place: @iampes23
Optional Challenge: N/A


Advanced
Comments
First Place: @soocoolsim
Optional Challenge: @soocoolsim

Build-n-Share Challenge #166 - Alien Encounters


This Week’s Challenge Specifics:

“plum storm..” You mutter to yourself, “Why did it have to get so dark so quickly…?” You glower up at the heavy thunderclouds obscuring the evening sun before hurrying off towards your car. An abrupt beam of white light surrounding you stops you in your tracks. “What the-?” Whatever word you were about to say is cut off as the white light becomes blinding.

When your eyes clear, you realize that you aren’t outside anymore. Instead, you’re standing in a new room, with soft music playing from somewhere. Sitting on a kind of couch that looks like it was lifted from a pub, is a blue-skinned man. For a few moments, you just stare at him, absently taking in details like the Star Wars-esque spacer’s outfit, the blaster on his hip and the rapier on the couch next to him.

“Sorry about the abrupt pick up, but I’d rather keep this just between us.” He says, flashing a mischievous smile. “You okay?”

You close your eyes for a few moments, reminding yourself that you’ve dealt with equally weird things. A crime boss. Santa and his wife. An entire village of fairy tale characters. You take a deep breath and put on your professional smile, “Honestly? I could use a drink.” He laughs.

A few minutes later you’re ensconced on the couch with a glass full of some rich alien liquor in your hand. He has one as well and waits until you’ve had a drink of it before he speaks. “My name is Donnell Indigo, and I’ve heard that you’re the best in the area when it comes to satisfying…custom requirements.”

Cautiously you nod, “When it comes to building and interior design, there’s a lot I can do. Are you looking for a landing pad for your ah, space ship?”

“Sort of.” He crosses his legs, sipping his drink with appreciation. “I’m the kind of guy who is very much in demand you might say, and not always by people I’d like to spend time with. I need a place to lie low. This seems like a quiet place and its so far out in Wild Space, it's unlikely I’ll have to worry about anyone bothering me about picky little details.”

Unable to resist, you ask, “What kind of picky details?”

“Oh, small things. You know, comforting lonely women who forget to tell me they’re married, unexpected loans of personal property…little things that really aren’t all that important. Still, people get worked up by those kinds of things.”

‘Great. A space pirate.‘ You think to yourself. “I understand where that could be complicated.”

“Exactly. And sometimes a guy just needs a little downtime. Think you can help me out? I pay well.”

“Depends on what you’re looking for in a house,” you say cautiously. “I make it a point to avoid bothering people with those…picky little details you mentioned.”

“Don’t worry,” he says, raking the fingers of one hand through navy blue hair, “I’m looking for a place to live when I’m here. A bachelor’s pad. Something that’s comfortable with or without female company. But I want it to blend in. I don’t want something that’s going to stand out like a neon sign. I’d like comfortable, loungy furniture. A big masterpiece of a master bedroom and an equally luxurious master bath. I need a secure room in which to store my…souvenirs. And quick, discreet routes out of the house if someone does come snooping around.”

“Sounds doable. How much do I have to work with to make this haven of safety and romance come about?”

Donnell gets up. He comes back with a space-age briefcase and the decanter of liquor. After topping up your glass, and his own, he opens the briefcase and shows it to you. “Go ahead and count it.”

You nod once you’ve finished counting it, “I can do a lot with this. How will I contact you when I’m done?”

“I’ll check back in with you when I get back in the system.”

“Sounds good.”

He smiles over the rim of his glass, trouble clearly being planned in his gaze. “Sounds very good.”

Requirements:

Bachelor pad with loungy furniture

Luxurious master bedroom and bathroom.

Camouflaged in some way or other.

Treasure Room

Hidden escape routes

Budget: 75k



OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Tell us about some of Donnell’s adventures.

Entry List


Beginners

N/A

Intermediate

NAME: ElleDaes
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8670250
LINK TO MEDIA: s112.photobucket.com/user/smwsda/slideshow/Build-N-Share%20Challenge%20No166
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Not included.
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: Lot Size: 20x30
Address: Final play test on 156 Savanah Lane, Twinbrooks.
Final Cost: $74,989
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: This 1 bedroom 1.5 bath bachelor hideaway is located two floors below the surface under what appears to be an abandoned farm. The main entry way opens into a wide main room, which is segmented by curtains and platforms, to not only break up the space, but to absorb the sound that ultimately echoes through cave like structures. As a space cowboy hideaway, this property features state of the art security including a remote sensor alarm, biometric entry scans, and 5 points of egress (in case unwanted visitors insist upon entry). The property houses a full seating dining room, eat-in kitchen, livingroom, office nook, full floor gym, trophy vault with views, a palatial master bedroom with extensive walk-in closet and attached master bath. And pay no attention to the space ship parked in the barn...it's just hay. You really must see it to feel the charm. Take the virtual tour today or call to make an appointment.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: NO CC, no CAP.

Advanced

NAME: Mederouin
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8665983
LINK TO MEDIA: s1380.photobucket.com/user/mederouin/slideshow/Build%20and%20Share%20166?sort=6
(Password: Wildspace) Note: All one word and case sensitive.
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE:
“So are you a space pirate, Mr. Indigo.” She asked me her luminescent green eyes staring up at me innocently, but it was always the innocent ones that turned you in when they found their bed empty in the morning. I threw back my head and laughed shaking out my navy blue hair as it hung just to my shoulders. She smiled brilliantly showing her slightly pointed teeth. “No my dear, not a pirate, more like a businessman. All I do is find new homes for things that would otherwise just be collecting dust.” I said delicately running my fingers through her black hair, careful to avoid the fleshy tendrils that had the unpleasant habit of shocking men who got too close. She purred in contentment. “If my husband were to find out he would flay you alive.” She said and I sighed, they always had to bring up the husband’s flaying me alive. Can’t anyone just tell me how dashingly handsome I am and leave it at that, but no they have to go as far as to tell me how I will die a gruesome death if we were caught. Great pillow talk that was, killed the mood right away, pun totally intended. I sat up unwrapping my arm from around her and then stood up from the bed. I could see the hurt in her eyes as I picked up my shirt from the floor and slipped it over my head. I rescued my blaster from the chair and clinched the belt into place. I grabbed the rapier from an impaled pillow, goose down spilling everywhere when it came loose and I slid the thin sword into its sheathe opposite the blaster. It was always good to have a backup. I thought patting the two weapons fondly before I turned back to the girl still lying in bed. She pulled the covers up to her chest as she sat up. “You’re leaving?” she asked and I smiled dashingly at her. “That’s what I do sweetheart, now be a dear and tell me where your husband keeps all his lovey dust magnets.”
I was halfway across the galaxy before the news bulletin flashed across the screen with a warrant for my arrest. How many was that now? I’d lost count after the sixteenth. I glanced over my shoulder to see the pile of gleaming gems the girl had been kind enough to show me. Surely she was crying at her husband’s feet right now, weaving a tale of robbery and how I forced her. All those girls were the same, rich husbands who are too busy to show them any love. They bite at the first sign of affection. I suppose in a way, I did feel sorry for them, abandonment was something I knew well. The bitter thoughts of my own mother crowded into my head for a moment before I shoved them out and cranked up the stereo the loud beat of the music drowning out everything else. Space pirate, businessman, what was the difference really? We were both as crooked as a drunk man’s walking. I just took what I wanted and they paid blood money for it. So who was the more evil of men? I flicked on the auto pilot and fetched myself a drink. I drank the alcohol in three gulps feeling it burn down my throat in a comforting fashion. That was when things went bad. My music cut off and an announcement blared through the intercom. “Donnell Indigo, you are under arrest, cut your engines and prepare to be boarded.” Announced a voice I knew like the back of my hand. I slid into the pilot’s seat and flicked the controls to manual. “Hello Blair, long time no see.” I said back cheerfully as I messed with the controls getting ready to run. “Donnie, I know what you’re thinking, but I’ve really got you surrounded this time.” Blair said and I switched on the video screen so I could see my sister’s blue face drawn up into a scowl, her navy hair tied back tightly into a braid. “Come on sis, you know you say that every time.” I said still flipping controls and then checking her ships arrangement looking for a way out. Blair sighed, “Donnie please, don’t you ever get tired of running, just return the gems and maybe we can cut you a deal.” “Thanks, but no thanks.” I said and then gunned it. “Donnie.” Blair screamed as I headed straight for her ship. “You’re going to kill us both.” She continued and I smiled like a madman. “Donnie…Donnie don’t do this.” Blair almost whispered and my computer screamed as a weapons lock was detected, “Please don’t do this.” “Sorry sis, you were always the good one. The best big sister a vagrant like me could ask for.” I said, “Bye Blair.” I said and I heard Blair stifle a sob as the weapons fired and I watched the beam of light coming directly at me. “Wait for it, wait for it.” I mumbled under my breath as the computer screamed at me. The light was so close now that I could almost feel its heat. “Now.” I screamed and laughed crazily as I dove down the light just skimming my tail fin as I ducked under Blair’s ship and skimmed her belly all the way to freedom. “Catch you later Blair.” I said and just before I jumped I heard Blair scream, “Donnie…” like only a big sister could, ah was there a sweeter sound in the whole universe? I reclined in my chair, and then sighed looking over my shoulder again at the pile of gems that sat there. Now their beauty looked a little colder and harsher, but this was the life I’d chosen. I sighed again looking forward again at the endless expanses of space around me, maybe Blair was right and it was time to stop running. Maybe it was time to get a little place of my own for when I was felling nostalgic like this. I put my boots up on the dashboard and leaned back further, I had heard of this architect on Earth, this little out of way planet deep in Wild Space, who was known to cater to even the most unusual of requests. I looked at the gems once again and this time they seemed to shimmer with promise.
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40 X40; 77 Subalpine Blvd Hidden Springs; Final Cost: 74,946
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: For this home I really wanted to build it into a cliff for the camouflaging aspect so I kind of wanted the front of the house to be more nondescript and maybe a bit hidden, but I did want to make this a modern-like building so it goes deeper into the lot and cantilevers over the pond a bit. The treasure room is on the ground floor accessed through a sliding bookcase door in the study, there is also a hidden exit within that room that leads to the back patio. Most of the rooms have a least two exits one to the outside, just so that get a-ways are easy for Donnell, but without being to obvious about it at the same time. The Master suite has its own deck with views of the pond and ocean beyond with open master closet and bathroom off of that. The sunken living room makes it more cozy and more intimate. Um... I think that's about it, Hope you enjoy.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A

NAME: ISHTARJMD
LINK TO LOT: http://www.mediafire.com/download/3ktnl225ykrw5uu/Alien_Encounters.Sims3Pack
LINK TO MEDIA: http://wp.me/p34lt9-m9
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: None
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST:30x40, 180 Wright Way, $74,132
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: A bi level modern build with a few secrets. The top floor features an open concept main room, kitchen nook, half bath and laundry. There is also a generous sundeck out back over looking Sunset Valley bay, complete with a hot tub. The second floor is a walk out basement that was converted to the master suite. It features a large bed, custom built fireplace/tv combo, 3 secret exits, a secret passage to the treasure room one level down and a multi head shower. All furnishings are in a contemporary style with a color scheme of deep grey, light grey and blue throughout the build. Not my best build, but modern isn't a style I do often.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: TSR saves the day


Results

Beginners
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Intermediate
Comments
First Place: @ElleDaes
Optional Challenge: N/A

Advanced
Comments
First Place: @ISHTARJMD
Optional Challenge: N/A:

Build-n-Share Challenge #167 - Sunset Valley Orphanage

Challenge Deadline: Tuesday 30th June, Midnight CMT.

Rose buzzes through, you put down your latest copy of Dwell and prepare to meet your new client.

The door opens and you are greeted effusively by a woman with platinum blonde hair and startlingly blue eyes.

"Oh my dear, it's so wonderful to finally meet you!"

Shaking hands you catch the scent of her perfume and find yourself wondering what it is.

"Douglas has told me all about you and your wonderful team, and I find myself in need of an architect and builder."

"Now, I have a very important brief for you, it's not something I have ever seen on Sunset Valley, but it is something that I feel very strongly about."

As she catches her breath you go to speak.

"Of...."

"I have noticed a huge number of orphans in the world, who all seem to be sent out on their own to fend for themselves, this seems an atrocious situation to me. Many a time, I have come across an exceedingly large expanse of land, with nought but a tiny little home, which can't hold more than the bare necessities."

"I see." You manage to interject between sentences.

"You created such a wonderful library for Douglas, I simply can't imagine another builder or architect I could entrust such a project to."

"I want you to build an orphanage, but nothing like those austere prison blocks that are prevalent both here and back home in England. Somewhere the children will feel safe and able to learn the lessons of life, as well as a basic education."

You wait patiently for her to start her next sentence, but find her looking at you expectantly.

"So, you want us to build you an orphanage?" Your mind boggles, you have never undertaken such a task before.

"That is correct." She says.

"How many orphans do you want to cater for?" You ask, your mind racing.

"Let's start with 12, shall we, we might have to look at another centre later on though."

"So, a place for 12 orphans, did you want a dormitory style build or separate bedrooms?"

"Hmmm, a good question, how about a mix of both, a dormitory for four, and bedrooms that sleep two, for both the girls and the boys. Is that acceptable?"

"I think we can manage that. Did I hear you correctly when you said you wanted them to be able to access a basic education at the site?"

"Yes, you did."

"So a classroom or two then?"

"Yes, that would probably be best."

"How about a creche, an early years centre for the children and then a formal classroom for the teenagers?"

"Why that sounds perfect! Oh, there would need to be a couple of spare bedrooms for staff and so on, and I would like to be able to stay on some occasions."

This job just seemed to keep getting bigger and bigger you think to yourself.

"Oh and a large hall, a multipurpose area, with a kitchen for meal times, assemblies, dances and fundraising events."

"Is there anything else you can think of?" You ask, crossing your fingers that this is the extent of the mammoth task.

"Apart from a swimming pool and a small gymnasium no, I think we have covered everything."

"Except the budget." You add.

"Of course, how forgetful of me, let's say a total cost of no more than $650,000 shall we."

Breathing a huge sigh of relief at the funds available you say "Ok Miss Montpellier, I am hopeful that we can get this together for you in two weeks."

"Wonderful, thank you for seeing me this afternoon, and I look forwards to seeing what your team come up with."

The Brief:

☆ Total lot cost, no more than $650,000
☆ 50x50 lot in Sunset Valley
☆ Your choice of architecture and style
☆ 2 dorm-style rooms that sleep four, one for the girls and one for the boys
☆ 2 bedrooms that sleep two, one for the girls and one for the boys
☆ 3 ensuite double bedrooms, for staff and Miss Montpellier
☆ An office for the Miss Montpellier, which should double as a staff room
☆ A reception area
☆ A large multipurpose hall, with attached kitchen
☆ A creche area (targeted towards babies and toddlers)
☆ An early years learning space (primary/grade school level)
☆ A formal classroom (for secondary/high school level)
☆ Your choice on how many bathrooms and how you locate them (apart from the staff’s rooms)
☆ An indoor pool and a small gym area with changing facilities
☆ Full landscaping with an outdoor play area

Optional challenge: Create some orphans and show them enjoying the facilities.

Entry List


Beginners

N/A

Intermediates

NAME: SimLover48702
LINK TO LOT: drive.google.com/file/d/0B6oplU3GQRJiX2M1QUN2VEM5VXc/view?usp=sharing
LINK TO MEDIA: smileyfxce.blogspot.com/2015/06/build-n-share-challenge-166-sunset.html
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: i.gyazo.com/b2577a5ae5da8d4f13451ff558e3cd0e.png
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 50x50, 15 Summer Hill Court (deleted 60x60 lot, placed 50x50), $172,582
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: I was going for a cozy home look with my build, while still capturing the look of an orphanage. I wanted to make it look so the orphans would be comfortable and think of this lot as a home and think of the staff and other children as family. Of course, there wasn't enough room for the staff and Miss Montpellier to sleep, so I added 3 separate rooms off to the side for them. While this lot looks like a 3-story family home, it still captures the love and image that an orphanage should be.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: Skalkovski from The Sims Resource

NAME: VannaRed
LINK TO LOT: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8690709
LINK TO MEDIA: http://vannaredsim.blogspot.com
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: http://simvannared.blogspot.com/2015/06/167-sunset-valley-orphanage.html
Miss Montpellier, staff and 5 children: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8690707
The mayor: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8690708
The construction guys; http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8690704
The Killian twins: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8690705
Darvy's and their store: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8690703
http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8690706
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: donated by the mayor, 60x60 lot at 15 Summer Hill Court final cost $454,454
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: a home away from home for the lucky children to catch Miss Montpellier's eye.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: none, but a ton of store items.


Advanced

NAME: Mederouin
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8687445
LINK TO MEDIA: s1380.photobucket.com/user/mederouin/slideshow/Build%20and%20Share%20167
Password: Orphan (Note: is case sensitive)
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: N/A
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 50 X 50 (replacing the existing lot) 15 Summer Hill Court, Sunset Valley; Final Cost: 370,937
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: When I think of orphanages I think of converted Victorian manors. Why, I guess I've watched to many movies ;) Anyway so going with what felt right I built a Victorian inspired manor that used to be one the home of some fabulously wealthy sim who died without an heir and decided to donate it to Miss Montpellier to be rehabbed and redone to make it the perfect home for children who had no where else to live. To that end instead of a true multipurpose room, there is the ballroom attached to the kitchen that could be used for fundraisers or rainy day playtime. The two classrooms are also on the first floor and for the younger children I wanted to make it more of a hang out so the bottom of the walls I'd imagine as chalkboard paint (Which is why it is black, but unfortunately actually chalkboard paint isn't in the sims, so imagination must do) There is one staff room downstairs for the most senior staff member or Miss Montpellier who might need a bit of a break from children. Upstairs the boys are on the right side of the house and the girls + toddlers are on the left separated by the other staff rooms. In the basement is the pool, boys and girls locker rooms, gym, bathroom and a little rec. room. Outside the outdoor pool is fenced off to keep people from falling in since it is so close to the stairs and the pond is separated from the play-yard by that outdoor eating area. The play house has it's own white picket fence and I could see the kids all trying to sleep in there. Okay I think that's about it sorry for the long description, hope you enjoy.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A


Results

Click on the judge's name to take you directly to the comments.

Beginners:
First Place: N/A
Optional Challenge: N/A

Intermediates:
Comments
First Place: @VannaRed
Optional Challenge: N/A

Advanced:
Comments
First Place: @mederouin
Optional Challenge: N/A

Build-n-Share Challenge #168 - The Novelist

Challenge Deadline: Friday 31st of July, Midnight CMT.

“Jade! How lovely to see you!” You exclaim. Going to the grocery store is always fun for you. You run into everyone at sometime or other it seems. In this case, its literally. “Sorry for bumping your cart.”

“Its okay,” ‘Jade’ smiles at you with lips painted wine red. “However you have the wrong sister.” You step back, studying her. Emerald green eyes glitter in amusement at you, a deeper warmer look than Jade’s pale green business like stare. Instead of being pulled stylishly but efficiently back from her face, the sister’s raven hair curls romantically around her face and over her shoulders. Her dress, made of a rich burgundy velvet, is casually and elegantly gothic in style. Otherwise, she’s identical to Jade Bloodclaw.

“I’m sorry,” you say sheepishly.

“Not at all. Being identical twins, it happens all the time.” She moves her cart to the side ot let someone else get by. “My name is Fire Bloodclaw.”

You shake hands with her, introducing yourself. Then a light bulb blinks on. “Fire Bloodclaw? The novelist? The one who wrote Empire of Jade?”

She laughs a sensual laugh, “The same. You’ve read it?”

“I haven’t. My assistant however raved about it. What brings you to town?”

“Change of atmosphere.” She smiles, “I was actually hoping to see you. My sister is delighted with the work you’ve done for her and trust me, Jade is incredibly hard to please when it comes to work.”

“Great to hear.” You look around. “Do you know Purr’s café?”

“Who doesn’t?” Fire laughs.

“Why don’t we meet there and talk about what you’re looking for?”

“Sounds great. An hour?”

An hour later, the two of you are settled into one of the booths at Purrsia’s place. Unsurprisingly, there is a tray of blissfully delicious tapas sitting between the two of you. Fire smiles, “I knew Purrsia when I was in college. She and her sister lived in the same house we did. She did all the cooking to help pay for her rent. It was lovely.”

You grin, “I bet you ate better than the Ramen diet I lived on.”

Fire laughs, “If you didn’t mind being an experiment for new recipes, yes…But the experiments didn’t always work out. Those were the nights when Tums was greatly in demand.” She smiles, “Now, on to why I was hoping to talk to you.”

“Someplace to store your tums?” You quip, making her chuckle again.

“Not quite. I’m looking for a home of my own. I’ve been living with Jade, but her apartment really isn’t my style. She’s the penthouse apartment kind. I’m more the secluded dramatic type.”

“So what kind of house are you looking for?” You pull out your ever present note book.

“Something with a dramatic view. Private. When I loose myself in my work, I hate being distracted by petty things like time of day or last time I ate something. It needs to be soothing…and, I shamelessly admit, fairly luxurious in terms of comfort. I never know where I’ll end up writing. I need at least 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. And if you can squeeze it in, a new laptop. State of the art please. My old one fried itself this morning and I’m using Jade’s computer…something else that is not conducive to concentration. I have 75k to put towards this. Decent entertainment center and a library. I love stories in all forms.”

“None of that is out of reach. Can you give me a little while?”

“Sure. I have a book tour coming up soon anyway.”

“Excellent.” You reach for the check, only to have her lightly bat your hand away.

“My treat,” she insists.

The Brief:

*75k budget
*2 bedrooms, 2 bath
*Secluded lot with dramatic view
*Library
*State of the art laptop
*Decent entertainment center
*Luxurious surroundings

Optional Challenge:

Make Fire, who is a Hopeless Romantic, Friendly, and Flirty. Show her enjoying her new home.


Entry List


Beginners


Intermediates

NAME: VannaRed
LINK TO LOT: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8702588
lot with the view http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8702592
(I do realize this is probably cheating so if I'm disqualified that's fine, I kinda expected it.) lol.
LINK TO MEDIA: http://vannaredsim.blogspot.com/2015/07/168-novelist.html
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: http://simvannared.blogspot.com/2015/07/build-and-share-optional-challenge-168.html
I'm turning this in early because I just want to keep playing these sims. thanks for the inspiration!!!

Fire Bloodclaw is secretly a werewolf. She is a Hopeless Romantic, Friendly, and Flirty. Also very artistic and a book worm. Having just finished and releasing her latest novel "Jade Empire", she is having a bit of writers block and needed a change of scenery so she goes to visit her sister.

Fire Bloodclaw http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8702591
Jade Bloodclaw and her house http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8702590
Edgar(the love interest) http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8702589
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 50x50 lot in Moonlight Falls,230 Valley View Drive, final cost was right at $75,000. I used every penny.
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Moonlight Falls world.... Gothic revival style home. 2 bed rooms, an attic, 1 full bath and 2 half baths. Open floor plan on ground floor eat in kitchen and living area. 2nd floor has a small bedroom with desk and a full bath. area for lounging around with a good book. 3rd floor has a bedroom with it's own bath and office/library balcony with amazing view of the waterfall behind the house. (lot 231 Valley View Drive placed in edit world. I think that may be a cheat move and if so then go ahead and over look my build. I knew that was a possibility.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please.
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: none, but a lot of store items and moo.

NAME: iampes23
LINK TO LOT: http://www.mediafire.com/download/4jn753amox19tad/Modern_Gothic_Manor.Sims3Pack
http://www.mediafire.com/download/w67z75f2u7c8z1w/Fire_Bloodclaw.Sims3Pack
LINK TO MEDIA: http://s97.photobucket.com/user/iampes23/slideshow/BnS168
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: http://s97.photobucket.com/user/iampes23/slideshow/Fire Bloodclaw
Fire Bloodclaw is an author who loves Gothic anything! She even dresses in Gothic-style clothing. But she also loves a bit of modern in her home, because comfort far outweighs style! She is a Gemini, which is strange since she is also a twin. Unlike her sister, she has a very soft, romantic side. She loves to flirt, in sharp contrast to her otherwise severely proper manners. She is very friendly to everyone she meets. Sometimes she is too friendly and/or flirty, and she has to break someone's heart. Okay, more often than not, she has to break someone's heart. She is a huge fan of all things supernatural; she brings her love of the supernatural to her books. Her latest book features vampires, werewolves, and a mysterious witch! She often writes to Dark Wave music or while eating her favorite potato and truffle tort. Her favorite color is spiceberry.
LEVEL: intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x30, Aurora Skies across from Basalt Beach lot on Geothermal Lane, $74,995
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: Fire stressed the need to be isolated as well as having a dramatic view (which helps her set scenes for her novels) from her new home. The lot in Aurora Skies has 3 dramatic views! The colors and architecture are Gothic, but not every item in the house is Gothic. She wanted a modern kitchen and comfort above all else in her home. Since she is often on the road doing book-signings, outdoor maintenance has been kept at a minimum. But there is plenty of space to sit and write!! Also, she likes old-fashioned things, like riding a bike and drying her clothes on the line outside. She is a bit of a closet environmentalist.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: TSR, MTS, and my own patterns


Advanced

NAME: Moonandsixpens
LINK TO LOT: thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8701188
LINK TO MEDIA: forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/13841657/#Comment_13841657
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: Screenshots
LEVEL: advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST:
Lot size: 40x30
Location: 447 Shoreline Point, Starlight Shores
Price:74691
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: detailed in the media link.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: yes please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A. Store contents were used.

NAME: Mederouin
LINK TO LOT: www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8703676
LINK TO MEDIA: s1380.photobucket.com/user/mederouin/slideshow/Build%20and%20Share%20168
Password: Novelist (Note: is case sensitive)
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: N/A
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 40 X 40; Placed a lot on a small island in Roaring Heights; Final Cost: 74, 998
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: For this build I wanted to build a beach house for three reasons, the first being that dramatic views and the ocean are practically synonyms. The second because what is more private then a private island and the third was that I had just watched a waterfall tutorial on YouTube and I really wanted to try it out. To that end I wanted to build something simple because Fire doesn't want the hassle of a complicated home upkeep and I wanted something a bit eclectic, but still cozy and tasteful because to me all authors are a bit on the fringe and always thinking creatively, seeing things for what they could be and not necessarily what they are. The library's decorations were kept to a minimum to reduce distractions (If you can ignore that view) in case Fire wanted to do some serious binge writing and almost every room has somewhere to sit in case she decides to take her laptop on the road. Alright I think that's about it, hope you enjoy.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A



Results


Beginners -:
1st Place:
Optional Challenge:

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @iampes23
Optional Challenge:

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

Build-n-Share Challenge #169 - A Patchwork Family

Challenge Deadline: Monday 31st of August, Midnight CMT.


You pull up to Central Park, scanning the expanse of green grass for your next client. Crossing the footbridge over the pond, you see a tanned handsome man jogging toward you, his face split in an easy smile. “Hi! I'm Miguel Salvador. I recognized you from the article in the Sunset Gazette about the new orphanage.” He shakes your hand warmly.

“It's so nice to meet you, Mr. Salvador,” you say.

“Please, call me Miguel. Let me introduce you to my family.” He leads you across the field to a red and white gingham picnic blanket spread beneath an enormous shade tree. A beautiful mocha-skinned woman with short, tight curls sits crossed-legged, her very pregnant belly covered in a pool of flowing bohemian fabrics. Twin Asian toddlers sit with her, busily playing with a xylophone and peg blocks, their cherubic faces furrowed intently beneath their pig tails. “This is my wife, Serena, and two of our children, Lihua and Liling.” Serena extends her hand up to you, metal bracelets jangling as they slide up her slender arm.

“It's wonderful to meet you,” you say, shaking Serena's hand. “Your family is beautiful!”

“Oh, the twins are not our only children,” Serena says with a chuckle. “Our eldest son, Nketi, is over there playing frisbee with our younger son, Tuyen.” Her voice drops to a low whisper, “Our other daughter, Aleela, is hiding behind this tree. She's shy.” Two dark eyes peep out from behind the tree, catch your gaze, and then disappear. Serena pats her belly gently. “And last but not least, we have Maya here, who should be making her debut in a few more weeks.”

“Incredible,” you breathe.

Miguel motions for you to have a seat and then sits beside Serena, looping an arm over her shoulders. “Serena and I have a special place in our hearts for kids in the system. We were both in the foster system and aged out before we could be adopted. So we've made it our mission to bring as many kids into our home as we can handle. Which is why we need your help. We are currently living in a tiny apartment with five children. With a sixth on the way, we're really bursting at the seams.”

“I bet! What do you need in your new home?”

“We need three or four bedrooms plus a nursery, and at least two and a half bathrooms,” Miguel says. “I teach middle school at the Community School for the Gifted and have lots of papers to grade, so I need some sort of office space. If it could double as study space for the kids, too, that would be great.”

“Meal times are hectic, so we'd love a large, open kitchen with plenty of prep space and enough places for everyone to have a seat at the table,” Serena adds. “We generate an enormous amount of laundry, so a laundry or mudroom is a must. The kids also need some decent green space to play in. There is nowhere for them to play at the apartment complex, which is why we're at the park today.”

“Okay, that all sounds feasible,” you say. “Is there anything else you need?”

Miguel touches the bangles on Serena's arm. “Serena makes jewelry and sells it at the consignment store. She also likes to paint and teaches youth art camp at the Sunset Institute of Modern Art, so some sort of art space would be good for her.”

“What style of home did you have in mind?” you ask.

“We like contemporary and prairie style homes, but casual and family friendly rather than cold and museum-like,” Serena says. “Our family is a patchwork of different ethnicities. Nketi is from Kenya, Aleela is from Zambia, Tuyen is Vietnamese, the twins came from China,and Miguel is Puerto Rican. I'd love for the interior of the home to have things that remind each child of their own heritage. We like a warm color palette – reds, oranges, and yellows – but it shouldn't be garish. Does that make sense?”

“Absolutely! We can have your home finished by the end of the month. Will that work?”

Serena puts a loving hand on her belly and says with a smile, “Just in time.”

The Brief:

*30x30 lot
*3-4 bedrooms, plus a nursery (the home should have 3 cribs for the twins and the new baby)
*at least 2 ½ bathrooms
*laundry/mudroom
*large open kitchen
*warm color palette
*contemporary or prairie style home
*comfortable, casual interior
*items that honor the family's varied heritage
*office/study space
*art space
*a green space for the kids to play in
*$110K budget

Optional Challenge:

Make the family and show them living in their new space. Miguel is a teacher who is family oriented, nurturing, and charismatic. Serena is family oriented, artistic, and handy. Nketi is a clumsy child who loves to read. Aleela is a shy child who loves animals. Tuyen is a perfectionist child who is over-emotional. The twins look identical, but are very different. Lihua is a budding virtuoso, while her sister, Liling, is athletic. Maya's traits remain to be seen. Or you can download the family from the exchange and show them in their new home. http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8720544

Entry List


Beginners

N/A

Intermediates
NAME: SimLover48702
LINK TO LOT: Not Included. If you would like one, please ask on my wall.
LINK TO MEDIA: http://smileyfxce.blogspot.com/2015/08/build-n-share-169-patchwork-family.html
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE:
LEVEL: Intermediate
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30x30, 1057 University Drive(sims university world), 98,013 simoleons
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: I was going for what the Salvador's asked for, warm color palette, hence the oranges, browns, and greens throughout the home. Including 2 full bathrooms, and 1 half bathroom, three bedrooms, one for Tuyen and Nketi, one for Aleela, and one for Miguel and Serena. Aleela's bedroom has lots of wood incorporated to her room, since being from Zambia, it has lots of woodland, and based on my 'research' Zambia themed bedrooms have a wood theme going on. Nketi and Tuyen are from Vietnam and Kenya, so I included in an animal rug, nothing much included in here , the twins are from China, so I included toyboxes and cribs with pandas, since the Giant Panda originates from China, including little generic nursery things for the new baby to use.

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: http://www.TheSimsResource.com and the Sims 3 Store.


Advanced

NAME: Mederouin
LINK TO LOT: http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=8743562
LINK TO MEDIA: http://s1380.photobucket.com/user/mederouin/slideshow/Build and Share 169
Password: Prairie (Note: is case sensitive)
OPTIONAL CHALLENGE: N/A
LEVEL: Advanced
LOT SIZE, ADDRESS & FINAL COST: 30 X 30; 17 Sweetwater Loop, Twinbrook; Final Cost: 109,948
LOT DESCRIPTION & DETAILS: The prompt for this one said either a prairie or contemporary style and instantly I thought of Frank Lloyd Wright considering his most famous designs are done in a prairie style. Anyway I'm not saying that I can design on the same level as Wright, just that I wanted to nod my hat to him on this one. His homes, as beautiful as they are were always intended to be comfortable family homes and that was the direction I wanted to go. I tried to stick to a warm color palette (even though personally I prefer cool colors) and make the spaces, although quite large, feel intimate and cozy with groupings of furniture and easy seating areas. I actually found meshing cultural pieces to be quite challenging because I wanted to stick with built-ins that were period specific and other furniture to match, but I tried to fight against that instinct and make the cultural pieces something less obvious, like a piece of art or sculpture. Though I'll admit I did have fun with that upstairs office. That office I thought could be just for Miguel whereas the kids could have the one downstairs. I know he said he didn't mind sharing, but honestly who wants to share an office with kids expressly when work actually needs to get done. I also tried to make most of bedrooms on-suites just so there wouldn't be that much of a bathroom fight and there is plenty of porch space should the kids need a rainy day play-yard. Alright I think that's about it. Hope you enjoy.
CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: Yes, please
CREDIT TO SIMMERS FOR CUSTOM CONTENT USED: N/A


Results


Beginners -:
1st Place:
Optional Challenge:

Intermediates -:
Comments
1st Place: @SimLover48702
Optional Challenge:

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