Our design build experts are happy to answer your questions about the luxury remodeling process or a project you’re considering. Please call us at 703-734-9050 or send us a message:
The air is getting cooler, leaves are falling from trees, and with the holidays ahead, there’s no better time to make your home a priority! If they haven’t already, family and friends will start to pour through your doors to spend quality time inside. Here are some tricks to improve functionality and make your home cozier, so your family has more time to enjoy the season’s treats:
Make your Family Foyer a Priority
With cooler temperatures, come heavy outerwear and footwear. Make sure your family foyer, or mudroom, is ready to handle the additional gear by removing your summer items.… Read More >
Introduction
Enjoy remodeling. Seems like a simple idea, right? Remodeling your home should be enjoyable. You should be able to engage with a remodeling partner and talk about goals, wishes, and long-term plans. You should be able to review and iterate on different designs, so you can understand what all of your options might be. You should be able to have honest conversations about money upfront to avoid pricing surprises later on in the process. You should have a single point of accountability so praise, questions, comments, or concerns only have one place to go. You should know when your… Read More >
A common misconception about remodeling your home is the idea that you need to add on to get more useful space. While additions can be a great way to create the extra space or functionality you and your family need, they aren’t always necessary. In some of our recent projects, the solution to more functionality wasn’t an addition but instead reimagining their existing footprint. For instance, how many times a year do you use your formal dining room? Usually, it’s reserved for special occasions and holidays and the other 300+ days out of the year it collects dust. In two… Read More >
BOWA would like to congratulate our two nominees and winners of the 2018 PROS Awards!
Fredy Villatoro: Best Field Technician, Customer Service
Jim Greenzweig: Best Remodeling Project Manager
The 2018 PROS Awards, sponsored by the Maryland Building Industry Association, recognize the dedication and hard work of customer service managers, project managers and superintendents who go above and beyond in all aspects of residential construction. Nominees were submitted by their employers and judged on their accomplishments in the 2017 calendar year, construction knowledge, focus on quality, scope of work and relationship with customers.
Winners were announced at MBIA’s End of Summer… Read More >
We’re honored that two of our recent projects are featured in Home & Design magazine’s May/June issue.
The first highlights a stunning, contemporary condo renovation in the Watergate, which had recently won both a local and regional Contractor of the Year award from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). The project also won a Great American Living Award (GALA) from NVBIA and MBIA for Best Design and Architecture, Renovations or Additions over $1,000,000.
In the article, BOWA’s Steve Kirstein explains how the team of condo renovation experts was able to transform the space, which had undergone a poorly… Read More >
We Want Your Recipes!
Do you have a recipe that’s always a hit? Does your family recipe deserve the spotlight? Or do your mixology skills stand out at parties? Send your recipes our way!
We are currently gathering the ingredients to produce a cookbook in honor of our 30th Anniversary. The book will feature beautiful kitchen photos and recipes submitted by our friends, clients and partners. Anything from appetizers, entrees, desserts or even your favorite cocktails can be sent to us for consideration.
Send your recipes to [email protected]
Photos of you creating or enjoying your finished product in your BOWA… Read More >
Ashton Lee | May 14, 2018
Many clients come to us wanting “more space” or “an open floor plan.” Sometimes an addition to the home is the solution, while other times reconfiguring the existing footprint allows the homeowners to better utilize the space and achieve their goals with the square footage they already have. In some cases, the renovation involves removing walls to create an open-concept living plan and the feeling of more space.
On one of our recent projects in McLean, the clients wanted both an open feel for their main-level and a lovely outdoor living space. One free-flowing area was created by removing walls… Read More >
Please enjoy these recent remodeling project highlights from spring 2018. To view more project profiles, please visit our Project Types section.
Spa Bath with Storage in Arlington
By removing the tub and changing the orientation of the shower, BOWA’s Design Team was able to create a floorplan that enhances natural light and creates desired storage. With the addition of overhead lighting and heated flooring, the space is now warm, bright and efficient. The gray floor-to-ceiling marble creates a lovely spa-like feel.
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Modern Aging in Place in Falls Church
As the… Read More >
Start designing your next project with BOWA and be one step closer to your HOT savings!
Are you interested in a BOWA-quality remodel for less? If so, BOWA’s Summer Design Discount is the answer and now’s the time to get started!
This value-driven program offers homeowners the high standard of quality, service and aftercare that has earned BOWA the loyalty of so many clients at a significantly reduced cost. The 2018 program is LIMITED TO 5 DESIGN BUILD PROJECTS and is offered in exchange for some flexibility in a winter start date.
Given the response in previous years, we expect… Read More >
Are you looking to freshen up your kitchen? In today’s world, the kitchen is the heart of the house. It acts as the center of family life and is often the focal point for social gatherings. These kitchen design ideas for 2018 may spark inspiration if you’re considering a kitchen renovation or just love beautiful projects.
Clever Storage
Who doesn’t need more counter space? One way to maximize your usable space and achieve a clean, sleek aesthetic is to hide all those gadgets. The perfect solution that we’ve been utilizing in our recent kitchen remodels is an appliance garage. It’s… Read More >
So, you recently found or have been living in a condo with the perfect building amenities and a fantastic location, but the design of your space can use some work. Your wish list may include renovating the kitchen or bath, installing state-of-the-art technology, creating storage solutions, updating the style or reconfiguring the entire space. At BOWA, we’ve handled all these requests and more many, many times, giving us the experience and know-how necessary to ensure success on your condo renovation.
When it comes to condo renovations, it makes sense that many of the trends popular in single-family living are flowing… Read More >
With winter upon us, you probably have your thermostats and fireplaces running on all cylinders to keep your home toasty and comfortable. But did you know there are other things you can do to help keep your home warm? Following are a few winter design details to make your home more comfortable and efficient, and create the cozy environment you desire.
Heated Towel Racks
This is the quickest way to add warmth to your winter! It’s the time of the year when getting out of the shower means braving the cool air and a cold towel, but not with a… Read More >
The Face of Luxury Condo Renovations
If you’re considering the luxury condominium lifestyle, then your first call should be to BOWA. With projects ranging from kitchens and baths to combined-unit renovations, BOWA has more condo remodeling experience than anyone in the area.
Our relationships with realtors and building managers allow us to help identify and quickly evaluate units. Once we dive into design, our experts know the tricks for customizing ample storage, ensuring privacy, replicating a gourmet kitchen, making the space feel more open and more – all common concerns when transitioning from a single-family home.
Our production team then… Read More >
From our first deck addition to our most recent whole-condo renovation, BOWA has grown up with hundreds of DC-area families over the past 30 years. It has been an honor to help these families transform their homes to meet their evolving needs. From making room for new additions and improving functionality for busy lives to preparing for aging in place and caring for in-laws, we’ve been there every step of the way.
A Better Remodeling Experience
Why do clients come back to BOWA for a second, third or fifth time? Why do they refer their family and friends without hesitation? … Read More >
Everyone experiences architecture and design on a daily basis, but it can become intimidating when it’s time to remodel your own space. Below are a few tips from our designers and architects that will help ensure your tastes are properly reflected in your next renovation.
Collect Images
The first step in communicating likes and dislikes for your home renovation is to collect imagery. Nowadays, you have more options than just sifting through magazines and ripping out the pages. Websites like Pinterest, Instagram, and Houzz provide easy ways to collect what you like online in a shareable format. Showing designers and… Read More >
One of the best parts of a kitchen remodel in McLean is customizing the space to meet your needs. While many people would be happy with a kitchen that is functional, practical and reliable, many homeowners long for the beautiful details and customized features that truly make the space their own.
Here are seven ideas to customize your kitchen remodel in McLean:
1) Creative Cabinets:
As there are no longer set rules, cabinetry is a great area for easily adding personality to a kitchen. Cabinets can range in color from light to dark and even feature contrasting colors or complementary… Read More >
Please enjoy these recent remodeling project highlights from fall 2017. To view more project profiles, please visit our Project Types section.
Industrial Chic in Dupont Circle
BOWA’s in-house design team took this row home from traditional to industrial with custom steel, perforated stairs that allow natural light to flow from the top-floor skylight. Concrete floors and an exposed brick wall enhance the industrial chic design and highlight the owner’s vintage commercial signs.
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Full Renovation of McLean Landmark
This 1910 home was in disrepair and needed a whole-house renovation to… Read More >
Kathy Kelly Hines | October 10, 2017
How we can help and why now is the time to remodel
The DC housing market has stayed hot for some time now. It’s been named the third most-active market in the nation, exceeded only by Colorado Springs and Chicago. What does this mean for those looking to buy or remodel? As a homeowner, this could mean a few different things depending on your situation. Should you avoid the bidding wars and transform your current house into your dream home? Or maybe take this opportunity to sell your home for the most profit possible? Now is the time to pay… Read More >
Did you know the first freeze typically occurs in October in the Washington, DC area? With that in mind, despite the recent mild temperatures, now is the time to start planning for the winter ahead. Exterior home preparation is critical to helping your home weather the harsh winter elements and avoiding damage. Consider the following steps to get your home ready for winter.
Shut Off Your Hose Bibs
Hose bibs are the water faucets to which your gardening hoses attach. Every year basements become flooded because water is allowed to remain inside the pipes through the freezing winter months, which… Read More >
Kathy Kelly Hines | September 22, 2017
Loudoun County is one of the most incredible places in Virginia with its rolling countryside and beautiful views. This is truly the perfect place to create an amazing outdoor living space for entertaining or simply relaxing in your down time. If your outdoor space isn’t doing much living these days, consider these inspiring ideas for an outdoor renovation in Loudoun.
Screened Porch
Screened porches are a traditional go-to for homeowners who want to enjoy a bug-free time outdoors. Screen walls allow you to breathe in the fresh air and take in the scenery without worrying about pesky mosquitoes or other… Read More >
The simple sound of “drip, drip, drip…” in a condo can cause serious panic. Is it rain outside? An air conditioning drip? A toilet or shower leak? As one leak can affect many floors of a condominium building, your worries aren’t just about your individual unit, but also those of your surrounding neighbors. So, when it comes time to remodel, it is critical that you and your neighbors select a condo remodeling expert to properly manage your investment and the complex nature of condominium renovations. Despite what others might say, expertise in the specialized niche of condominium remodeling can only… Read More >
The kitchen is the heart of the home for many homeowners and, with careful planning and consideration, can be a valuable tool for keeping your home and family running smoothly. One of the most important parts of the kitchen design is the island. The kitchen island can provide a lot of functionality while adding style and purpose to the room.
The Purpose of the Kitchen Island
To design the perfect island, you must first ask yourself how you anticipate using the space, both now and in the future? This multi-purpose area may be used for any or all of the… Read More >
Have your kids left the nest? Have you looked at your single-family home recently and thought, “Is it worth all this work?” Or are you looking to move to a more energetic part of the city? Then perhaps the condominium lifestyle is for you! Listen here to Steve Kirstein’s condo remodeling tips.
When it comes to selecting the right unit for your family the available inventory is greatly expanded when you’re open to the idea of remodeling. However, without the right team, the process can be challenging. That’s where BOWA comes in. Our experts can guide you through the entire… Read More >
Start designing your next project with BOWA and be one step closer to your HOT savings!
Are you interested in a BOWA-quality remodel for less? If so, BOWA’s Summer Design Discount is the answer and now’s the time to get started!
This value-driven program offers clients the high standard of quality, service and aftercare that has earned BOWA the loyalty of so many clients at a significantly reduced cost. This year’s program is LIMITED TO 5 DESIGN BUILD PROJECTS and is offered in exchange for some flexibility in a winter start date.
Given the response in previous years, we expect… Read More >
BOWA’s Peace of Mind Promises Address Common Concerns so you can Enjoy Remodeling
What if we could promise you a remarkable remodeling experience? One where you could count on your remodeler to go above and beyond while standing behind their work, deliver your project on time and on budget, and actually leave your neighbors singing their praises. Believe it or not, it is possible.
As part of our client-first approach, BOWA’s Peace of Mind Promises are designed to address common remodeling concerns. Our hope is that these promises allow you to move forward with confidence and actually enjoy your remodeling… Read More >
Please enjoy these recent project highlights from spring 2017. To view more project profiles, please visit our Project Types section.
Kosher Kitchen Remodel in DC
The owner of this 1913 Victorian house in Cleveland Park wished to update and modernize the existing kosher kitchen to make it more functional. The project included removing walls to capture adjacent space and create better flow, and features a large, L-shaped island, two-toned cabinets and a dramatic industrial aesthetic.
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Universal Design Master Suite Renovation in McLean
Keeping to the existing footprint, the master bath renovation features clean lines, beautiful fixtures and custom details… Read More >
When selecting a financial advisor, are you more comfortable with the new grad or the seasoned professional with a track record of helping clients achieve their specific goals? As much as I want to support recent grads, I know where my money belongs. These principles also apply when approaching a condo remodel.
With more than 20 years of high-end condo renovation experience, I can say unequivocally it is a very specialized niche. Success requires residential expertise, a profound understanding of commercial systems and established relationships with building contacts and specialized subcontractors. With a proven advisor by your side, you can… Read More >
Whether you’re happy to see winter go or sad that we didn’t have much of one, now is the time to start thinking about giving your home a well-deserved spring cleaning. From tips for natural cleaning solutions to quick fixes, we have you covered. And the best part – you may already own most of the ingredients you need!
Natural Cleaning Solutions:
Because your home and family deserve only the very best, consider using natural cleaning solutions that will not only be effective in achieving desired results, but will also be safer for the environment.
Lemon or Lemon Essential Oil… Read More >
Consider These Condominium Search Tips
The renovation of luxury condominium apartments continues to be one of the fastest growing segments of what we specialize in at BOWA. While we’ve done this type of work for over two decades, there is no question the pace and frequency has increased in recent years. At this point, we’re fortunate to have five to seven condo renovations in the works at any given time. A quick glance around the DC metropolitan region shows this is in line not only with purchase statistics, but also with the much-publicized trend of folks moving toward the condo… Read More >
If you’re considering the luxury condominium lifestyle, then your first call should be to BOWA. With projects ranging from kitchens and baths to combined-unit renovations, BOWA has more condo remodeling experience than anyone in the area.
Our relationships with realtors and building managers allow us to help identify and quickly evaluate units. Once we dive into design, our experts know the tricks for customizing ample storage, ensuring privacy, replicating a gourmet kitchen, making the space feel more open and more – all common concerns when transitioning from a single family home.
Our production team then marries the delicate handling… Read More >
Do you know any carpenters, laborers, designers or sales people who are looking to build a great career? Folks who are customer-focused, eager to grow and want to work with a highly respected industry leader?
If so, take a look at BOWA’s current opportunities and descriptions on our Careers page – https://bowa.com/our-story/careers/
Our list of upcoming projects keeps growing and to meet the demand we are hiring team members for a number of new positions here at BOWA.
Why Build a Career with BOWA?
Stability – 29-year-old company with solid revenues, plans for steady growth and an average employee tenure… Read More >
We’re pleased to be included in Washingtonian’s January 2017 issue as “The Face of Luxury Condo Renovations.” Our team certainly has the depth and breadth of experience, relationships and specialized methodologies needed to be successful on the most complex of condominium remodeling projects.
If you’re considering the luxury condominium lifestyle, then your first call should be to BOWA. With projects ranging from kitchens and baths to combined-unit renovations, BOWA has more condo remodeling experience than anyone in the area.
Our relationships with realtors and building managers allow us to help identify and quickly evaluate units. Once we dive into design,… Read More >
Kathy Kelly Hines | January 6, 2017
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the eave or valley of a roof preventing proper drainage. This occurs when snow melts and slides to cooler portions of the roof and quickly refreezes creating the barrier or dam. The risk arises if additional melting occurs and water pools behind the dam. Costly damage may occur if the sitting water seeps between the shingle layers, wetting the roof deck and leaking into the home below.
Visible signs of damage may include dislodged roof shingles, water-stained ceilings, peeling paint, damaged plaster, etc. As other damage may not be… Read More >
Please enjoy these highlights of our recently finished projects. To view more project profiles, please visit our Project Types section.
Striking Whole-House Renovation
The homeowners’ of this lovely McLean house wanted to revitalize their home by adding modern finishes into the design. BOWA was able to create a brighter, more functional kitchen; a more inviting foyer; a charming home office, and a luxurious master bathroom that suited all of the homeowners’ needs.
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Spacious Two-Story Addition
This DC family wanted to add more space to their home but their options were limited due to a tight lot. BOWA designed… Read More >
Thanks to the trust of our clients and partners, we’re pleased to say BOWA’s in-house design department has been growing steadily since we announced this division just over two years ago. Under the direction of Bobby Han, the team has added a wealth of experience and resources all intended to streamline the often arduous design process.
People & Experience: Bobby Han, Director of Design, has an A.B. in Architectural Design and Theory from Princeton University and a Masters of Architecture from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. He has worked with notable firms, run his own practice, and designed projects… Read More >
We’ve all heard folks express frustration about home renovations gone awry. Mishaps ranging from projects dragging on to budgets being disregarded to contractors not showing up are all common themes. But it doesn’t need to be that way. To help you avoid common renovation nightmares, consider these questions to ask yourself and/or your potential remodeler before getting started.
Should I hire a design build firm or an architect first?
When remodeling your home you have many options ranging from hiring an architect and builder separately to piecemealing with many subcontractors to hiring a design build firm like BOWA. Based on… Read More >
You might be surprised to learn that recent scientific evidence suggests air inside your home can be even more polluted than outdoor air. With millions of people suffering from asthma and allergies, it’s a good idea to question whether the air in your home might be negatively affecting your family’s health. Fortunately, there are things that can be done to reduce the build-up of indoor air pollutants, thus improving the overall air quality and helping to protect your family. Following are three basic strategies.
Control Sources
Source control is considered to be the most effective way of reducing indoor pollutants.… Read More >
Thanks to the Houzz community, BOWA’s remodeling photos have been saved to ideabooks over 50,000 times! The team at BOWA is so honored to have hit this milestone.
With more than 11 million photos on Houzz, the fact that BOWA’s photo’s have been saved over 50,000 times is a true testament to the beauty of our work. The photos on Houzz feature kitchens, baths, bedrooms, outdoors, and more submitted by designers, architects, remodelers and builders from across the country. With virtually every style and room included, Houzz is a fantastic tool for garnering inspiration and saving and communicating project ideas.… Read More >
BOWA’s Doug Horgan, Vice President, Best Practices, has been invited to present two sessions at R|D|J 2016, the premier trade show for residential builders and remodelers. The trade show will be held at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, MD on October 5-7, 2016.
Details of Doug’s sessions are as follows:
Wednesday, October 5th 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM W17 – Shower Pan Troubleshooting, Repairs, and Reliable Installation Techniques
Friday, October 7th 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM F06 – Protection and Dust Control
Use Doug’s personal promo code SKV to receive a free expo hall admission and 20% off an… Read More >
Now that appliances have become about as energy efficient as they can get, manufacturers are focusing on other areas when developing the latest and greatest bells and whistles. It seems the new trend in appliances is what makes life easier for the consumer. Families want to spend less time worrying about household tasks and upkeep, and instead, spend more time enjoying life. Following are a few new appliance features that just might make your household chores a little easier.
Oven Features and Accessories An oven feature that is widely ignored is the door. As it has been forever, the majority… Read More >
We asked our design pros to share with us some of the interesting things they are seeing in their projects. What’s different about projects in 2016? Staying true to the family’s lifestyle tops the list! Following are their thoughts.
Bobby Han, AIA: For our mid-range design build projects, we aren’t doing a lot of additions, but instead reworking existing square footage to improve the flow and relationship of spaces. This follows the trend of making homes more livable. Rather than focusing on how big or fancy something is, people are really committed to making the changes – big or small… Read More >
As a newcomer from a previous career with General Electric, I have been most impressed by BOWA’s dedication and commitment to quality. BOWA’s focus on refining a building process with quality controls reminds me of GE’s injection of Six Sigma processes throughout its organization. Like GE, BOWA is constantly evaluating results and improving processes. Its pursuit of quality never ends.
That dedication is fueled by our desire to help families improve their lives at home. Every family we meet is seeking peace and enjoyment in their home. Whether from slumber parties, dinner parties, grand celebrations or a simple family meal,… Read More >
Kathy Kelly Hines | June 1, 2016
Please enjoy these highlights of our recently finished projects. To view more project profiles, please visit our Project Types section.
Stunning DC Condo Renovation
Top-to-bottom condominium renovation in an historic Kalorama building features all the comforts of modern living. The project included a new kitchen, dining and family rooms, a luxurious spa-like master bath and a home office all designed to suit the client’s lifestyle and maximize every inch of livable space.
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Loudoun Whole-House Renovation
This Loudoun County, Virginia renovation focused on creating beautiful spaces that suit the family’s love of entertaining. It includes sophisticated details like a barrel-vaulted… Read More >
Are you interested in a BOWA-quality remodel for less? If so, BOWA’s Summer Design Discount is the answer and now’s the time to get started on your design with us!
For the third year in a row, we’re offering clients the opportunity to get the high standard of quality, service and aftercare that has earned BOWA the loyalty of so many valued clients at a significantly reduced cost.
The program is LIMITED TO 5 DESIGN BUILD PROJECTS and offers a significant discount in exchange for some flexibility in start date. Given the response in previous years, we expect the five… Read More >
What adjustments are you planning to make in your home to ensure your long-term comfort and safety?
For many of us, when it comes to our homes, the “Big Game of Life” plays out in two halves. The first being when we’re in growth mode: building careers, raising families and adding on. The focus is usually short-term or immediate. Perhaps we’ve just moved into a home that needs major changes to suit our active lifestyle. Or, growing children now crave a space of their own. Or we’re trying to create the “neighborhood destination,” a great indoor or outdoor space to… Read More >
There’s nothing quite like the announcement of an approaching winter storm to send area residents scrambling to the store for bread, milk, “TP” and other common necessities. While many welcome the snowfall, winter storms can be challenging and downright daunting if you and your home are not prepared. Consider the following tips to help keep your family and home safe this winter, whatever this weekend may bring us.
Plan Ahead
Keep up-to-date on weather forecasts and plan accordingly. If there is the chance of a storm, it’s better to stock up ahead of time, rather than waiting until the last… Read More >
The 2015 Great American Living Awards (GALA) were announced last night and BOWA took the top prize in two of the three renovation categories – it might have been a sweep, had we also entered the third!
A beautiful renovation in Potomac, Maryland, designed by one of BOWA’s on-staff kitchen designers, won the Best Design and Architecture – Custom Renovations or Additions Under $500,000 category. To learn more about this design build project click here.
BOWA’s second design build winner, a whole-house renovation in Chevy Chase, took the top honor in the Best Design and Architecture – Custom Renovations or… Read More >
Having run the program for two years now, we’re pleased that so many clients have been able to take advantage of our Winter Incentive Discount.
It was a great opportunity for them to get the high standard of quality, service and aftercare that has earned BOWA the loyalty of so many valued clients AT A SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED COST. And for BOWA, it has been a great way to ensure a steady stream of design build remodeling projects running through the winter months providing great stability for our valued employees.
The program, LIMITED TO 5 PROJECTS per year, offers this significant… Read More >
Is now the time to jump into that project you’ve been considering, but you don’t know how to get started? In my opinion, finding the right fit in a renovation partner is the first and most critical step to setting the stage for a successful remodeling project and great client experience.
Your overall experience from the beginning of design through completion and beyond will be directly related to the person and company with whom you choose to partner. That’s the most important decision you’ll make, not what to do or how much to spend, but who you choose to help… Read More >
Almost every luxury remodel starts with the same question “How can we improve our family’s life at home?” But the answer varies as families grow, age and evolve. As such, the best designs consider both current and future needs.
For young families, the focus is almost always children. Kitchens are designed with low drawers for easy access to important items, like sippy cups and napkins. Refrigerator drawer beverage stations and below-the-counter microwaves allow little ones to help themselves. Study areas are incorporated into family spaces to allow for parent-child interaction at homework time. Creative storage solutions and child-friendly finishes, like… Read More >
Our design build experts are happy to answer your questions about the luxury remodeling process or a project you’re considering. Please call us at 703-734-9050 or send us a message:
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