O'Brien Homes Gives Back to Community Through Decorated Model Homes at Fusion in Sunnyvale

Giving back to the community, O'Brien Homes gave three local interior design students the chance to design and decorate the interiors of two merchandised model homes at Fusion in Sunnyvale using products from local suppliers. End Quote

San Jose, CA (1888PressRelease) August 05, 2011 - In an economy when some homebuilders have struggled to manage the challenges of difficult market conditions, O'Brien Homes has proven that a little outside-the-box thinking can go a long way. Initially aiming to keep spending at a minimum for the new model townhomes at Fusion in Sunnyvale, the builder took a fresh, new approach to the traditional practice of interior design and model home merchandising, presenting three interior design students with the opportunity to design and decorate the interiors of two model homes at Fusion. With additional help from project leader and renowned interior designer Lisa Staprans, O'Brien Homes not only showcased the potential of these stunning new townhomes but also managed to give support to local students and engage local businesses. Through this innovative project, O'Brien Homes rose to the occasion by embracing creative thinking and making a tangible difference in the local community.

The project's striking results can now be viewed at Fusion's new model homes, but the road to success was a long time in the making. Several months prior to Fusion's model grand opening, O'Brien Homes faced a dilemma: five of the seven model townhomes were scheduled to open for model tours at Fusion, yet two remained without a decorating allowance.

O'Brien Homes understood that decorated models are an important tool in helping potential buyers visualize themselves in the new homes. The goal was clear: furnish the models without spending funds. Tough times call for creative measures, so the builder set out to try a new tactic-create a project that gives local interior design students the opportunity to decorate the two models and gain valuable real life experience in interior design.

After selecting three West Valley College students for the task, O'Brien Homes headed straight for first gear and put the wheels in motion. With their sights set on introducing living design to the unfurnished models, students Nidhi Singhal, Anny Wong and Niveidhitha K R were led by design veteran Lisa Staprans, founder and design director at Staprans Designs in Menlo Park, and under her guidance, the project truly came to life.

"One of the most exciting aspects of the Fusion project for me was working with the three design students from West Valley College," explained Lisa Staprans. "I was very excited about mentoring the students and having them participate in a project from the start to the finish. The students have been very enthusiastic and eager to take care of things as they come up, and this project allowed us to take their vision and bring it to life."

Striking architecture was enhanced with color and energy while distinctive living spaces were complemented by unique furnishings and beautiful accent pieces. After only a few months, what were once empty Fusion models soon transformed into livable model homes, providing homebuyers with the opportunity to visualize all the potential options for their new home. The project also allowed O'Brien Homes to support local students as well as the business community in a way that is almost unheard of in this challenging economy.

"Each and every day at Fusion was a great learning experience for me," expressed student designer Niveidhitha K R. "I was able to associate my classroom learning here while at work. This gave me a better perspective and understanding not only in design but also planning, estimation and implementation."

Fellow designer Nidhi Singhal added, "We started the Fusion project with a very small budget in hand. Through the project, we learned how to manage within that budget and produce a beautiful end product."

The two new Fusion models were thoughtfully decorated with quality products from local work rooms, artisans and suppliers to appeal to the target buyers. While some furnishings utilized were recycled and reused from closed model complexes, some of the new furnishings and décor on display in the student-decorated models are available for immediate purchase, allowing homebuyers to easily create their own personal spaces while local companies receive increased business. The beautifully decorated models at Fusion are the result of hard work, ingenuity, collaboration and a desire to enrich the lives of others.

Fusion presents stylish new townhomes that boast open floor plans, green features and attractive architecture. Fusion includes seven different floor plans with two to four bedrooms, ranging in size from approximately 1,198 to 1,882 square feet of living space.

Various home styles are available, including flats and traditional townhomes, all with attached two-car garages. These chic townhomes feature Contemporary and Spanish Eclectic-influenced architecture as well as other appealing exterior features from spacious decks and patios to unique landscaping. With the addition of eco-friendly features and a host of amenities, homebuyers will find the best new home value in Sunnyvale at Fusion.

Ideally located close to major freeways and employers, Fusion provides residents with access to all the conveniences of the Silicon Valley while offering an array of community amenities that make it unique in the area. With a premium fitness center, Wi-Fi lounge, 12-seat private theater, outdoor fire pit, playground for toddlers and a putting green, residents can gather with friends, mingle with neighbors and work out without stepping foot in their cars. Fusion residents also enjoy close proximity to the revitalized downtown Sunnyvale, fine dining, shopping and recreation destinations, including 18 prize-winning parks. To keep up to date with all the happenings at Fusion, visit FusionSunnyvale.com.

The info center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and Mondays by appointment only.

Known for its reputation of quality and distinction, O'Brien Homes has been crafting memorable, lasting homes and communities throughout the Bay Area for 35 years. With well-crafted finishes and elegant interiors, each residence is built to only the highest standards of excellence, providing homeowners with lasting quality and value. To learn more about O'Brien Homes, please visit OBrienHomes.net.

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