A remodel of a small home, we were excited that the owners wanted to stay true to the character of an Arts & Crafts style. An aesthetic movement in history, the Arts & Crafts approach to design is a timeless statement, making this our favorite aspect of the project. Mirrored in the execution of the kitchen design is the mindset of showcasing the craftsmanship of decorative design and the appreciation of simple lines and quality construction. This kitchen sings of an architectural vibe, yet does not take away from the welcoming nature of the layout. Project specs: Wolf range and Sub Zero refrigerator, Limestone counter tops, douglas fir floor, quarter sawn oak cabinets from Quality Custom Cabinetry, The table features a custom hand forged iron base, the embellishment is simple in this kitchen design, with well placed subtle detailing that match the style period.

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

The kitchen features large built-in refrigeration units concealed by monumental custom millwork, a generous island with stone countertop, and bar seating. A dual-fuel range with hand-painted tile backsplash, custom hood, and open shelving add functionality to the working space. Reclaimed wood beams and reclaimed terra cotta floors complete the material palette. Design Principal: Gene Kniaz, Spiral Architects; General Contractor: Brian Recher, Resolute Builders

What was once the darkest area of the home has been transformed to a cheery and soothing hub. We painted the walls a frosty blue and installed grass cloth to high light the accent wall with a reflective quality. All lighting fixtures were updated and all new furniture with custom rugs were installed.

12x12 Antique Saltillo tile. Tile was ordered presealed, installed by Rustico Tile and Stone. Dark grout was left behind in texture to create a reclaimed terracotta tile look. Topcoat sealed with Terranano Sealer in Low Gloss finish. Counters and bottom of hood is Pinon Cantera stone with painted Talavera Tiles throughout. Materials Supplied and Installed by Rustico Tile and Stone. Wholesale prices and Worldwide Shipping. (512) 260-9111 / info@rusticotile.com / RusticoTile.com Rustico Tile and Stone Photos by Jeff Harris, Austin Imaging

Susan Teare
Example of a mid-sized beach style light wood floor, brown floor and tray ceiling kitchen pantry design in Boston with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, limestone countertops, porcelain backsplash, white appliances, no island, multicolored countertops and blue backsplash

Inspiration for a large mediterranean u-shaped travertine floor and beige floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Orange County with a farmhouse sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, limestone countertops, blue backsplash, ceramic backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and gray countertops

Kitchen Remodel highlights a spectacular mix of finishes bringing this transitional kitchen to life. A balance of wood and painted cabinetry for this Millennial Couple offers their family a kitchen that they can share with friends and family. The clients were certain what they wanted in their new kitchen, they choose Dacor appliances and specially wanted a refrigerator with furniture paneled doors. The only company that would create these refrigerator doors are a full eclipse style without a center bar was a custom cabinet company Ovation Cabinetry. The client had a clear vision about the finishes including the rich taupe painted cabinets which blend perfect with the glam backsplash.

Meier Residential, LLC
Inspiration for a mid-sized modern u-shaped enclosed kitchen remodel in Austin with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, limestone countertops, multicolored backsplash, mosaic tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

Inspiration for a mid-sized mediterranean single-wall travertine floor and beige floor eat-in kitchen remodel in San Luis Obispo with shaker cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, limestone countertops, multicolored backsplash, slate backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

This spacious kitchen in Westchester County is flooded with light from huge windows on 3 sides of the kitchen plus two skylights in the vaulted ceiling. The dated kitchen was gutted and reconfigured to accommodate this large kitchen with crisp white cabinets and walls. Ship lap paneling on both walls and ceiling lends a casual-modern charm while stainless steel toe kicks, walnut accents and Pietra Cardosa limestone bring both cool and warm tones to this clean aesthetic. Kitchen design and custom cabinetry, built ins, walnut countertops and paneling by Studio Dearborn. Architect Frank Marsella. Interior design finishes by Tami Wassong Interior Design. Pietra cardosa limestone countertops and backsplash by Marble America. Appliances by Subzero; range hood insert by Best. Cabinetry color: Benjamin Moore Super White. Hardware by Top Knobs. Photography Adam Macchia.

LHD45 Vector 45 Linear Gas Fireplace with Stylo surround - in kitchen room set [Napoleon]
Eat-in kitchen - large contemporary galley medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Denver with a double-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, limestone countertops, stainless steel appliances and an island

Large tuscan u-shaped terra-cotta tile open concept kitchen photo in San Francisco with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, limestone countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

An antique Chinese frieze hangs above this kitchen’s original fireplace. Bronze farm sinks, bronze hardware and a bronze raised bar are accented by fossil limestone countertops; a subzero wine refrigerator, dishwasher drawers, a Wolf gas, five-burner cooktop and a restaurant-style faucet of brushed nickel, giving this kitchen a gourmet touch. The flatscreen television on an articulating arm makes it even more tempting to spend hours in this family’s favorite spot! An original brick fireplace and woven wood blinds add warmth alongside the many stainless steel appliances. A light tile backsplash, ceiling, lights, and glass leaded cabinet fronts provide a good contrast that keeps the kitchen, with its dark cabinets, from being heavy and oppressive.

The best of the past and present meet in this distinguished design. Custom craftsmanship and distinctive detailing give this lakefront residence its vintage flavor while an open and light-filled floor plan clearly mark it as contemporary. With its interesting shingled roof lines, abundant windows with decorative brackets and welcoming porch, the exterior takes in surrounding views while the interior meets and exceeds contemporary expectations of ease and comfort. The main level features almost 3,000 square feet of open living, from the charming entry with multiple window seats and built-in benches to the central 15 by 22-foot kitchen, 22 by 18-foot living room with fireplace and adjacent dining and a relaxing, almost 300-square-foot screened-in porch. Nearby is a private sitting room and a 14 by 15-foot master bedroom with built-ins and a spa-style double-sink bath with a beautiful barrel-vaulted ceiling. The main level also includes a work room and first floor laundry, while the 2,165-square-foot second level includes three bedroom suites, a loft and a separate 966-square-foot guest quarters with private living area, kitchen and bedroom. Rounding out the offerings is the 1,960-square-foot lower level, where you can rest and recuperate in the sauna after a workout in your nearby exercise room. Also featured is a 21 by 18-family room, a 14 by 17-square-foot home theater, and an 11 by 12-foot guest bedroom suite. Photography: Ashley Avila Photography & Fulview Builder: J. Peterson Homes Interior Design: Vision Interiors by Visbeen

This two island kitchen brings an elegant whimsy to a French Country Estate style. The hand painted custom hood over the La Cornue range creates a stunning elevation beneath the open hallway upstairs. Thick, detailed mouldings and corbels provide an abundance of "wow" in this stately kitchen.

Custom made shelving, using pipe fittings.
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized cottage single-wall eat-in kitchen idea in Boston with limestone countertops and an island

Tom Sauer
Inspiration for a mid-sized craftsman u-shaped medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen remodel in Milwaukee with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, limestone countertops, beige backsplash, matchstick tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Kitchen pantry - large country light wood floor kitchen pantry idea in San Francisco with a farmhouse sink, white cabinets, limestone countertops, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island