--- title: "Metropolis Design Group — Interior Designers & Decorators | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/metropolis-design-group-pfvwus-pf~1133243330 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1133243330.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Metropolis Design Group" category: ["Interior Designers & Decorators"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/d1e376e803b20a50_7016-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "5801 James Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55419, United States" latitude: 44.9026 longitude: -93.2886 phone: "(612) 760-2569" website: http://metropolisdesigngroup.com rating: 5 review_count: 23 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 138 last_updated: 2026-08-17 --- # Metropolis Design Group > Twin Cities Full Service Interior Designer Original Houzz profile: [Metropolis Design Group](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/metropolis-design-group-pfvwus-pf~1133243330) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Interior Designers & Decorators - **Location:** Minneapolis, MN - **Serves:** Minneapolis, Bloomington, Plymouth, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Burnsville, Minnetonka, Edina, Minnetonka Mills, Saint Louis Park, Richfield, Roseville, Inver Grove Heights, Savage, Crystal, Golden Valley, New Hope, Columbia Heights, West Saint Paul, Hopkins, Robbinsdale, Saint Paul, Mendota Heights, Little Canada, Falcon Heights, Osseo, Lauderdale, Howard Lake, Maple Plain, Lilydale, Loretto, Sunfish Lake, Medicine Lake, Mendota, Crystal Bay, Navarre, Young America - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (23 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2016–2020), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Woman owned - Award winning - 25 years in business - Verified Hires ### Business highlights - 1 Verified Hire Metropolis Design Group is a Twin Cities based full service interior design and project management firm. Specializing in both residential and commercial interior design projects of all sizes with an emphasis on Kitchen and Bath design. Other services include custom cabinetry design/build, furniture specification and procurement, and specialty finishes of all types. ### Services Provided - Interior Design - Kitchen Design - Bathroom Design - Living Room Design - Bedroom Design - Color Consulting - Space Planning - Furniture Selection - Kids Bedroom Design - Dining Room Design - Custom Cabinets - Lighting Design - Custom Kitchen Cabinets - Custom Built-ins - Floor Plans - Custom Bathroom Vanities - Custom Furniture - Playroom Design - Laundry Room Design - Nursery Design - Custom Blinds & Shades - House Plans - Custom Home Bars - Closet Design - Universal Design - Basement Design - Custom Bookcases - Custom Walk-in Closets - Custom Entertainment Centers - Custom Rugs - Sunroom Design & Construction - Custom Fireplace Mantels - Home Theater Design - Wine Cellar Design - Sustainable Design - Custom Shelving - Custom Pantries - Home Staging - Downsizing - Drafting - Green Building - Interior Design Photography - Kitchen Remodeling - Home Office Design ### Areas Served - Minneapolis - Bloomington - Plymouth - Eagan - Eden Prairie - Burnsville - Minnetonka - Edina - Minnetonka Mills - Saint Louis Park - Richfield - Roseville - Inver Grove Heights - Savage - Crystal - Golden Valley - New Hope - Columbia Heights - West Saint Paul - Hopkins - Robbinsdale - Saint Paul - Mendota Heights - Little Canada - Falcon Heights - Osseo - Lauderdale - Howard Lake - Maple Plain - Lilydale - Loretto - Sunfish Lake - Medicine Lake - Mendota - Crystal Bay - Navarre - Young America ### Typical Job Cost $10,000 - 500,000 Ultimate fee and construction cost dependent upon size and scope of the project. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Metropolis Design Group | | Address | 5801 James Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55419, United States | | Phone | (612) 760-2569 | | Website | http://metropolisdesigngroup.com | | Followers on Houzz | 138 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — www.facebook.com/metropolisdesigngroup/ - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/company/metropolis-design-group ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Metropolis Design Group](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/metropolis-design-group-pfvwus-pf~1133243330) - **Website:** http://metropolisdesigngroup.com - **Phone:** (612) 760-2569 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - NARI Coty Award - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2016–2020), for Service. **Affiliations** - [NARI of Minnesota](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nari-of-minnesota-pfvwus-pf~403777539) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 23 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Shilad Sen, Nov. 2019** > Laura helped us design a two-story addition to our home that included a new kitchen, mudroom, and two bathrooms. We were delighted by Laura's flexibility in process, design instincts, communication, and professional network and highly recommend her. > > By the time we began interviewing designers, we had developed a detailed floorplan and received pricing from some design / build firms. It became clear that the design / build firms we talked to were either "design-forward" or "build-forward." In response, we worked with Laura and a draftsperson to develop a full set of bid drawings to bid our job out to builders. > > We had thought about our project for years and were looking for a hands-on design process where we could provide a great deal of feedback. Even during our initial consultation we appreciated how flexible Laura was about her process, and how she could listen to our thoughts, even in areas where our design differed and offer specific questions and direction to clarify our thinking. > > During space planning, Laura reworked our floorplan to streamline it in ways we had not imagined. She patiently questioned some of the tradeoffs we had planned to highlight areas where we could save money or make a more functional use of space. She and Mary quickly and reasonably developed schematics for our kitchens, bathrooms, and cabinetry. > > During finish selection, Laura quickly came to understand our aesthetic. She had an amazing knack for helping us work through areas where we were uncertain or disagreed and balanced between riffing off our ideas and stepping in when she felt we were heading in the wrong direction. Finally, we appreciated Laura's network of tile, counter, and lighting providers and the excellent pricing she has with these retailers. > > We appreciated Laura's support and guidance during our our renovation. She was quick to respond via email and text, and always brought patience, a positive mindset and deep expertise. We will \*definitely\* use her again whenever we need design advice. **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Hi Shilad and Katy! Thank you so much for the kind words. It has been equally gratifying for Mary and I to work with you as well. You both are kind and articulate making this project a true collaboration-the best kind of project. And now the fun (and hard work payoff) begins! Ground broken-ready-set-go! Thx again! **★★★★★ — Gather Table Co., June 2019** > Creative. Flexible. Has a heart for design. Laura and her team are great at coming alongside you and enhancing your space! No one enjoys designing beautiful spaces more than her! **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thank you for the kind words! We have so enjoyed working with your company and your ability to embrace custom work so easily! **★★★★★ — Drew Gray Photography, April 2018** > I have had the pleasure of photographing some of Laura's work which is beautiful. She is wonderful to work with, a very good communicator, and has an excellent eye. Highly recommend ! **★★★★★ — Rebekah Anderson, Oct. 2017** > How Laura melds a put-you-at-ease manner with a perfect professionalism never fails to impress me! She has a wonderful command of color and form and combines them with a practicality that can meet any challenge head on. Her relationships with her trusted vendors and craftspeople is a huge plus, too. **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thanks so much for your kind words Rebekah! It is always a true pleasure to work together. **★★★★★ — Brian Schubloom, May 2017** > We give Laura Bischoff the highest praise and recommendation! We struggled with how to best use our home's space. Laura solved the problem by providing a creative design solution and ideas that more effectively used existing space, frugally, without exorbitant construction or remodeling costs. > Laura is experienced, talented, a good listener, cheerful and makes the design solution process very efficient and easy. Her creative design solution for our space was brilliant! (and made us say "why didn't we think of that?") ! We were elated with the results and give Laura Bischoff the highest recommendation! **★★★★★ — Beth Lindahl-Urben, May 2017** > I have worked with Laura over the last 25+ years helping her sell a number of the homes she has worked on. I find that she is wonderfully thoughtful, creative, and efficient in her work. I love seeing how she can clearly see the essence of a home and what it can become. She can work with everything from traditional to contemporary, homes to lofts, and more. When I can, I like to refer Laura to clients who I know will be well served by her talents. **★★★★★ — Steven Warren, May 2017** > I've had the great pleasure of working with Laura Bischoff of Metropolis Design Group on two large projects. Laura is a dedicated professional in her field and a total delight to work with. > She's on top of every aspect of a project, has a ton of resources and contacts, and is always proactive, assuring me more than once that everything would turn out just fine... and she was right! Laura would be a valuable asset on any design project. **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thanks so much for the nice review Steven! It's always so much fun to work together. You appreciate the details which always insure great outcomes. Thx again! **★★★★★ — Margie Jurich, May 2017** > Laura is fabulous to work with! She has the ability to think out of the box, and always can come up with a space solution. Her knowledge of all things in the design/build world is extensive. She is my go-to person whenever i need help with all my decisions! **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thank you for taking time to submit a review for me Margie! It's always fun to collaborate with an equally creative and thoughtful person! Can't wait for ground to be broken! **★★★★★ — Archteca Design, May 2017** > Laura advised on the overall bath and walk-in closet design layout, tile and lighting selection. She has access to many material options and choices so the result is just what I was hoping to have- a light, airy and unusual bath with steam shower and a great walk-in. **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thank you for the nice review Sheila! I appreciate you taking the time to do so. Can't wait to someday enjoy this bathroom in person! Thx again! **★★★★★ — Jean Nead, May 2017** > I have known and worked with Laura for over 12 years in the industry. > She is very creative, yet practical in her approach. The end result is always immensely pleasing and in line with budget! **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thank you for the review Jean! Mutually, always wonderful to work with you. Thx again! **★★★★★ — Ann Quiring, May 2017** > Laura is a creative soul who designs spaces that uniquely fit a particular home and homeowner. Her choices in our home have always drawn oohs and ahhs in terms of functionality and creativity. Working with her is like having a conversation with a friend--she will tell you her opinion, but she will also offer many options to suit your needs and budget. Highly recommend. **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thank you for the review Ann. It's always been a great pleasure to work with you! Looking forward to future projects. Thx again! **★★★★★ — rjgarpestad, June 2016** > Laura Bischoff of Metropolis Design Group is creative, practical, budget-conscious and collaborative. She recommended many outstanding resources for lighting, flooring, wall coverings and more. Everyone she suggested was professional, responsive and reliable. Laura's great eye helped me with a number of important decisions, in particular my paint color palette. I never would have achieved the harmony I was looking for without her. She is an excellent designer and advisor who I hope to work with again someday. **Comment from Metropolis Design Group:** > Thank you Renee! I, too, would love to work together again, and if not soon, at least catch up with you personally. You're project was a fun one making our team effort outstanding! Thx again. ## Selected projects - [Loring Green High Rise](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/loring-green-high-rise-pj-vj~7473589) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 14 - Description: 'Out with the old and in with the new' was the philosophy of this decades-long client. The desire to simplify everything from the maintenance of her 1920's home to the amount of 'stuff' to hang onto weighed heavily on making a bold move to a skyline condominium in historic Loring Green East. Working inside an original 1980's condominium posed many challenges as well as even more opportunities. Some of the significant changes were the addition of the stunning fireplace wall, expanding the living… - [Parkway Spa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/parkway-spa-pj-vj~7473701) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 14 - Description: This bathroom went from outdated to updated with a Zen-like transformation! 20 years after the original design, this space was feeling tired and dated. After transitioning to empty-nester status, this couple wanted a more tranquil, upscale bathroom to relax in and enjoy. A lovely vessel tub and clean-lined expanded shower simplify the space visually making for a soft uncluttered room. A making for a soft uncluttered room. A customized fluted bamboo vanity adds to the spa-like atmosphere. Large c… - [Lake Front Condominium](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-front-condominium-pj-vj~7473707) - Location: Andover, MN - Photos: 13 - Description: This 80's era vacation condo in the Annandale area begged for a serious update! The owners and their two sons loved the lakeside property and all its amenities but found it lacked functional space, storage, and overall comfort. The transformation began by tidying up various spaces and adding significant, much needed storage for fishing and recreational equipment, and personal items. The kitchen cabinetry was removed and replaced with efficient, beautiful cabinetry. Uppers were raised to the ceil… - [Minnetrista Move](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/minnetrista-move-pj-vj~7474288) - Location: Minnetrista, MN - Photos: 14 - Description: A desire for a larger home with open vistas and more recreational space drew our clients from their Minneapolis Tangletown home to a lovely suburban home in Minnetrista. Expansive spaces in both room-size and height were dramatic changes from the home they left and provided a wonderful canvas for their new lake home lifestyle. The main floor, original to the home, was filled with dark cherry cabinetry in multiple heights and angles. Our first objective was to clean up the lines and open the spac… - [Shoreview Twin Home Main Floor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shoreview-twin-home-main-floor-pj-vj~7473617) - Location: Shoreview, MN - Photos: 14 - Description: An amazing transformation took place in this lovely, light-filled Shoreview twin home. Our client, a retired librarian and gardener extraordinaire, had yet to put her signature on this home. As a team, we first discussed what factors were needed to truly personalize this home and make it the perfect retreat for all seasons. We then worked at identifying a few items that needed to love on to make way for selections better reflecting the homeowner's personality and passions. Some of the biggest ch… - [Edina Main Floor Facelift](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/edina-main-floor-facelift-pj-vj~7473643) - Location: Edina, MN - Photos: 14 - Description: Located on a quiet cul-de-sac in Edina, this larger home was appointed in a very traditional style. When our client's family moved to Minnesota from California, they brought with them a more modern and functional sensibility. The home had great spaces and an efficient layout but felt fussy and lacked being a family friendly backdrop to this active family of five. Throughout the main level finishes and lighting were changed to convey a cleaner, more neutral, and modern feeling. Wood shutters were… - [Kenny Neighborhood Mid-Century Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kenny-neighborhood-mid-century-modern-pj-vj~7473604) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 13 - Description: Located in the heart of Southwest Minneapolis, this two story MCM home provides a great examples of updating to suit the original era of the home. The main projects for the homeowner included a full renovation to the galley style kitchen where entertaining would be light and easy. Modern conveniences and a new hallway pantry proved to be 'game changers' in both function and form. Additionally, a main floor powder room, still in it's 1950's original design, was completely gutted and reimagined wi… - [Pleasant Avenue Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pleasant-avenue-renovation-pj-vj~7474314) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 17 - Description: A young couple relocating from Silicon Valley to South Minneapolis called our studio to help breathe new life into their recently purchased turn-of-the-century home. Compared to their home in California this new home was loaded with square footage and classic 'bones' but lacked the warmth and function desired by this young growing family. Surrounding finishes like backsplashes, flooring, and countertops were dated and in bad shape. These factors cleared the slate for a clean, updated look while… - [Logan Avenue Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/logan-avenue-modern-pj-vj~7474305) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 13 - Description: Nestled in the heart of Minneapolis, this home was screaming for a refresh! The young urban family craved a clean modern aesthetic from the circa 1990's decor. While the kitchen layout was functional it gravely needed a facelift. All existing cabinet were refaced from dark mahogany raised panel style to crisp combination of white and woodgrain European full overlay style. The two-tiered peninsula was leveled and enlarged, and the mudroom went from dreary-to-stunning with the addition of a simple… - [Roundhill Road Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/roundhill-road-renovation-pj-vj~7473666) - Location: Mendota Heights, MN - Photos: 24 - Description: The classic 60's two story home in Mendota Heights was in dire need of an update. Packed with all the original features and the wear and tear to prove it, the new homeowners took the plunge for a thorough and beautiful renovation. Both living and family rooms dropped down a step for two, further accentuating the original home's compartmentalization. Floors were raised and walls removes to open the first floor up beautifully for daily enjoyment and wonderful entertaining-not to mention all the su… - [A St Paul Chef's Delight](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-st-paul-chef-s-delight-pj-vj~7478592) - Location: Saint Paul, MN - Photos: 21 - Description: One of our favorite collaborations ever! When local chef and entrepreneur, Shelagh Mullen, reached out to us to assist with her kitchen renovation-of course we said -Yes! The very heart of her 1920's era St Paul Tudor home, her kitchen needed both an aesthetic and functional transformation! Walls came down to open the tight outmoded kitchen creating a large, high functioning, sunny place where Shelagh now teaches classes and creates non-stop food creations (of course, most meetings included some… - [Beautifully Accessible](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/beautifully-accessible-pj-vj~7478620) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 7 - Description: Changing physical needs required this couple to seriously rethink their home's main floor bathroom. A more accessible shower along with other subtle features make this room a much brighter and more functional space in this 1950's home. Gleaming, easy-to-clean surfaces, polished metals, and brighter lighting added to the transformation! The overall classic aesthetic will ensure this room will have lasting style for many years to come. - [Wentworth Avenue Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wentworth-avenue-kitchen-pj-vj~2529293) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 22 - Description: Light and bright and white! A dysfunctional and small kitchen gets retired as it makes way for this fabulous classic white kitchen! Gleaming, yet resilient, surfaces of quartz, reclaimed wood, and crystal make this kitchen a show stopper for daily living and entertaining. The space, originally a 70’s family room addition, received a major overhaul with many windows, ample moldings, and architectural detailing added to create a high functioning, naturally lit space. Stay tuned as the “old kitchen… - [Belmont Avenue Living and Family rooms](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/belmont-avenue-living-and-family-rooms-pj-vj~2533020) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 20 - Description: A main floor makeover adds much needed function to this Tangletown neighborhood home Living in the heart of the city means making the most of every space. Traditionally formal spaces become sophisticated casual retreats for daily life. Custom cabinetry provides architectural integrity as well as much needed storage and the ability to multi-function within rooms. Rich jewel tones and luscious texture makes this living room as inviting as it is comfortable while natural toned finishes and material… - [Renovation for Resale on Oliver](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/renovation-for-resale-on-oliver-pj-vj~2650933) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 35 - Description: A rare Mid Century Split Level gets an extensive "make over" in this whole house renovation. No surface untouched. White walls and wood work throughout the house keep spaces light and open. Walnut stained custom cabinetry and a variety of materials mix well with soft torquoise accents throughout, allowing the classic architecture and special features to shine through. Eleven foot high ceilings on the main floor add drama once all the walls were removed on that level. Interesting lighting and spe… - [Edina Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/edina-modern-pj-vj~2614082) - Location: Edina, MN - Photos: 15 - Description: An interior kitchen gets a sudden burst of sunlight when a custom walnut stained pass thru is added during a complete remodel to the space. Traffic ways were reconfigured to make space more efficient. A cozy seating and storage unit is designed in contrasting finishes to warm up the room and provide a cozy seat for teens while dinner is prepared. Lightly textured back splash adds texture without disrupting the simplicity of the space. A bold orange semi-pro range offers just the right amount of… - [Aldrich Avenue Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/aldrich-avenue-addition-pj-vj~2816589) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 29 - Description: No detail was spared (nor stone unturned, literally) in this South Minneapolis 1920’s Craftsman home-both inside and out. Major work included a small but very smart addition off the back including a full renovation to the kitchen allowing for much needed sunlight and a main floor powder room to be added. Above the addition, a new second floor balcony was added overlooking the meticulously landscaped backyard. Other elements in the home included an array of lovely high end natural finishes, a fre… - [Creekside Traditional Main Level](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/creekside-traditional-main-level-pj-vj~1700225) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 20 - Description: A stately home gets a move toward more modern living via a layout change. This beautiful home had two long narrow rooms running parallel to one another creating two claustrophobic spaces lacking in function. While no space was added, walls were opened to create a more open feeling and allow light to be shared throughout. The classic living room styling continues with symmetrical mohair sofas and a pair of exceptionally comfortable lounge chairs. A glass cocktail table keeps things light while th… - [Aldrich Avenue Attic and Bathroom Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/aldrich-avenue-attic-and-bathroom-renovation-pj-vj~2816648) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 12 - Description: A tight, dark, cramped attic gets a "ground floor" feeling from the addition of large locally made French windows with custom stained and leaded glass. Meticulous period-specific detailing make these improvements feel like they have always been there. Bead board backed art niches reveal hidden access to the home's crawl space storage. A cozy tree top escape! The main bathroom of the home is transformed by this quality renovation including large pedestal sink, custom medicine cabinet and closet,… - [South Minneapolis Dining Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/south-minneapolis-dining-room-pj-vj~2636695) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 10 - Description: This South Minneapolis dining room was generous in size but lacked interest and storage. A large quarter sawn oak built-in was added to the room to add a generous amount of storage as well as architecture. Custom cabinetry and furniture selections blend beautifully with the home owner's primitive furnishing accents and artwork. A lovely, sunny, and welcoming room! [See all 29 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/metropolis-design-group-pfvwus-pf~1133243330) ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/158877869/list/wish-list) — 13 ideas - [Holton](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/177514986/list/holton) — 3 ideas - [Coles](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146613314/list/coles) — 2 ideas - [lockloy new](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/141706071/list/lockloy-new) — 8 ideas - [Logan Ave](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/141455139/list/logan-ave) — 11 ideas - [just ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/55553816/list/just-ideas) — 42 ideas - [Logan Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/131063524/list/logan-avenue) — 1 idea - [Lockloy](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/127316259/list/lockloy) — 15 ideas - [Bridgewater](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/74127979/list/bridgewater) — 37 ideas - [wilson](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/123613171/list/wilson) — 6 ideas - [thalhuber](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/123613202/list/thalhuber) — 1 idea - [Sen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/122457776/list/sen) — 2 ideas - [grausam](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/118025649/list/grausam) — 1 idea - [Slayton](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/101508461/list/slayton) — 8 ideas - [Clayton](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/99223283/list/clayton) — 5 ideas - [Hoolahan Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/97470658/list/hoolahan-kitchen) — 5 ideas - [Rex](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/86033494/list/rex) — 22 ideas - [James Ave Exterior](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/91658307/list/james-ave-exterior) — 25 ideas - [Aldrich kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/55639555/list/aldrich-kitchen) — 21 ideas - [Donnelly](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85889031/list/donnelly) — 3 ideas [See all 33 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/metropolisdesigngroup) ## Community Q&A **Q: Wood species** *(in Photo Questions)* What wood species is this? Thank you A: Hi there. The cabinets are made out of birch with a custom stain mixed for us. Sorry, I do not have a stain formula to share. We call it "Greige". Thx for the inquiry! **Q: beautiful pot rack** *(in Photo Questions)* can you provide a source for the pot rack? A: Hi there. I do not know the ultimate source for this. I designed this kitchen almost 20 years ago and at the time I purchased it from another client. I would google "round chrome ceiling mounted potrack" and see what comes up. You could also approach a local metal crafter and see if they could make something similar for you custom? I have done this several times for various clients in order to get something of quality. It's not as complicated as you might think. Best of luck and thanks for reaching out. It is a signature little piece. Thx for noticing the details! **Q: Paint** *(in Photo Questions)* What color of green is this? A: thx for inquiring. That project was done quite some time ago but I am guessing Ben Moore Bayleaf 1533. I might start there and see if you like it. Good luck with your project! **Q: Help my kitchen!** *(in Design Dilemma)* We just moved into our new house last week. I'm having a hard time with the kitchen - I love the look of a white cabinet, subway tile, hardwood floor kitchen. This is the opposite. It's just so dull. Any thoughts? I looked into hardwood but it was $6K. I definitely want to put pendant lights above the island. Any other thoughts? We could paint cabinets not sure what color....help! Would a different wall color help? The one now is a yellowy-tan. (Please excuse the mess - still putting stuff away)! A: Painting the cabinets is a great idea and one that is fairly easy to accomplish in the midst of the chaos of moving. Make sure if you do this yourself you really invest time in prepping things properly...you may be surprised how long you will keep it this way if done well. I might choose a richer white like Ben Moore Mountain Peak White or even one a little warmer. It would be brighter than the back splash to keep things crisp yet sophisticated. I might also consider changing the doors on the cabinets on the left to glass front doors. It would further lighten/open things up-another affordable simple change. (Most big box home improvement stores have programs to order these on your own-easy.) The glass cabinet interiors could then be painted a fun color or you could add a great wall covering to the back to make this area a feature/great display. Definitely add pendents over island. Lastly I might consider adding a wood top or contrasting (but still simple) stone on the island, turning it into a central strong feature-think end-of-the-day-destination! I've used local craftsman to freshen a few islands this year with hand planed wood tops-they are fabulous. Depending upon the species you choose it could be dark or light. With painted cabinets you could go a little darker/richer. Island base could be painted a trendier color (grays, gray blue, orange-who knows?!) for a very "current" pop. That's easy to repaint down the line as trends evolve. Good luck! (Believe me, I've seen worse!) **Q: Love the sink/cabinet and soap dispenser. Can you share the source?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Thank you for your inquiry. I'm happy to share the source. The vanity (sink and cabinet) are by Ronbow. There are many options which you'll see on their website. The soap dispenser is from an accessory line called Blomus. I love both these lines-if you like contemporary, you will too. **Q: Gorgeous! Will you please share kitchen &dining room wall colors. thx** *(in Photo Questions)* A: The lighter colored walls are Ben Moore HC-83 Grant Beige and the darker brown is Ben Moore 2107-20 Mocha Brown. Thx again for your inquiry. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-17.*