---
title: "Flintridge Design Inc. — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/flintridge-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~344029273
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~344029273.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Flintridge Design Inc."
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/54932cc00c22824e_4630-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "466 Foothill Blvd Suite 248, La Canada, California 91011, United States"
latitude: 34.2217
longitude: -118.2051
phone: "(818) 423-4060"
website: https://flintridgedesign.com
rating: 4.9
review_count: 16
best_of_houzz_awards: 4
followers: 230
last_updated: 2026-08-09
---

# Flintridge Design Inc.

> Custom Home Building Design Expert \| CA & UT

Original Houzz profile: [Flintridge Design Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/flintridge-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~344029273)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** La Canada, CA
- **Serves:** Los Angeles, Hollywood, North Glendale, Glendale, Pasadena, Universal City, Arcadia, Altadena, San Gabriel, Temple City, West Hollywood, South Pasadena, La Canada Flintridge, La Crescenta-Montrose, San Marino, Sierra Madre, East Pasadena, Mayflower Village, Cottonwood Heights, Heber City, Holladay, La Crescenta, Liberty Park, Midway, Montrose, Park City, Salt Lake City, Sandy, Stough Park, Sun Valley, Sunland, Toluca Lake, Tujunga, Valley Village
- **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (16 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2026), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Houzz Pro Software User
- Star Houzzer
- 5 Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 500 Ideabook Saves
- Eco-friendly
- Award winning
- High-end
- Hired on Houzz
- Provides 3D Visualization

### Business highlights

- Eco-friendly
- High-end
- Award winning
- Provides 3D Visualization
- 4 Hires on Houzz

Flintridge Design provides custom architectural design and sustainable building solutions tailored to your unique lifestyle. We guide you through the design process to create artful, functional homes in any style, including Traditional, Boho, Colonial, and Art Deco. With over 25 years' experience specializing in very high fire zones and WUI defensible space design experts

Our Core Specialties:

Custom Home Design: Collaborative planning that puts your preferences first.

Sustainable Building: Eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and environmentally sound construction solutions.

Fire Rebuild Experts/Wildlife-Urban Interface specialist: Over 25 years of specialized experience designing and rebuilding in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

Special Offer: We are currently offering substantial design discounts for new fire loss clients in the Los Angeles area to help you rebuild.

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- House Plans
- New Home Construction
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Kitchen Design
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Sustainable Design
- Energy-Efficient Homes
- Floor Plans
- 3D Rendering
- Green Building
- Space Planning
- Universal Design
- Drafting
- Home Restoration
- Historic Building Conservation
- Project Management
- Passive Solar Heating & Cooling
- Carbon neutral
- Construction Drawings
- Fire Rebuild
- Net Zero

### Areas Served

- Los Angeles
- Hollywood
- North Glendale
- Glendale
- Pasadena
- Universal City
- Arcadia
- Altadena
- San Gabriel
- Temple City
- West Hollywood
- South Pasadena
- La Canada Flintridge
- La Crescenta-Montrose
- San Marino
- Sierra Madre
- East Pasadena
- Mayflower Village
- Cottonwood Heights
- Heber City
- Holladay
- La Crescenta
- Liberty Park
- Midway
- Montrose
- Park City
- Salt Lake City
- Sandy
- Stough Park
- Sun Valley
- Sunland
- Toluca Lake
- Tujunga
- Valley Village

### Typical Job Cost

$500,000 - 5,000,000+

$500,000 - 5,000,000+

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Flintridge Design Inc. |
| Address | 466 Foothill Blvd Suite 248, La Canada, California 91011, United States |
| Phone | (818) 423-4060 |
| Website | https://flintridgedesign.com |
| Followers on Houzz | 230 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/flintridgedesign
- X (Twitter) — kurtbednar@ksbLA
- LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/profile/edit?trk=hb\_tab\_pro\_top
- Blog — https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4KP6zfsIeUWaarVSQcsEOw?view\_as=subscriber

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Flintridge Design Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/flintridge-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~344029273)
- **Website:** https://flintridgedesign.com
- **Phone:** (818) 423-4060

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- 1st Place AIBD Design Awards Winner, Certified Green Build Adviser under Build It Green (BIG) Gilbert Smith Service Award Recipient for Furthering the Mission and Goals of the Roger Barkley Community Center (AKA La Canada Community Center)

- **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2026), for Service.

**Affiliations**
- [AIBD - American Institute of Building Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aibd-american-institute-of-building-design-pfvwus-pf~1544540709)
- [U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/u-s-green-building-council-usgbc-pfvwus-pf~1797160658)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 16 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 45.0
- Value: 50.0

### Featured Review

**★★★★★ — HU-552480, July 2016**

> After couple attempts to remodel our house in La Canada, we couldn't find an architect that not only is familiar with all the rules and building codes, but also has a creative and tasteful ideas, until we hired Kurt Bednar.  He, with his positive all smile attitude combined with his professional knowledge and experience, provided us with all the plans and permits as it was promised, and completed the remodeling project within our budget limit and on time; way more beautiful and tasteful design than we could imagine.
>
> Thank you Kurt, you made our dream house come true.

### All 16 reviews

**★★★★★ — owen schmidt, April 2025**

> Flintridge Design, based in La Cañada Flintridge, has earned a strong reputation as a notable home designer and architect firm in the competitive Los Angeles area. Following the devastating loss of our home to fire, they provided invaluable assistance. Flintridge Design not only located the original blueprints but also analyzed discrepancies from the initial construction. They expertly updated all mechanical systems and developed a more efficient framing plan utilizing modern truss technology and building materials, enabling the complete rebuild of our home in under a year. Their expertise was crucial in accurately conveying rebuild costs to our insurance company. Furthermore, their design facilitated the development and management of contractor estimates and the overall construction timeline.
>
> Flintridge Design' approach is highly collaborative, emphasizing understanding the client's vision and translating it into a tangible design through detailed plans and 3D visualizations. This commitment to a clear and communicative design process, coupled with their stated aim to complete projects within budget and on schedule, contributes to many positive experiences my wife and I benefited from. We highly recommend Flintridge Design!

**★★★★★ — harrisjeffreyb, April 2025**

> Nice fellow and easy to work with. Considered all of our needs and wants and the plans look great.

**★★★★★ — chin ma, May 2018**

> Soon after purchasing a home in La Canada for its location, I asked Kurt to design a 750 square foot addition with new rooms and completely remodel the existing house.  Kurt very patiently discussed and illustrated (with 3D renderings) major modifications to my plan, and we ended up with a plan that I am very satisfied.  In addition, Kurt arranged the structural calculations, managed the City’s approval process, and recommended several general contractors for my selection, and is presently helping supervise the project.  The whole process went smoothly; this is because Kurt is very familiar with the City Building & Planning dept. requirements and details.  Kurt is creative, friendly, and I cannot thank him enough; I am totally satisfied with Kurt and highly recommend him for any building design project!

**★★★★ — Julie Milbrodt, May 2018**

> Kurt did a great job designing our backyard patio/BBQ area.  He had great ideas and really worked with us on what we needed and wanted.  He also was there during construction to resolve problems if needed.

**★★★★★ — Jill McCleery, Sept. 2016**

> Kurt expertly designed our second story addition and pool house in La Canada Flintridge, including very skillfully handling a difficult permitting situation.   He looked out not only for the design in a creative way but had exceptional insight on maximizing the value of the project.  So we ended up with a much better project -  more space for less money - than we imagined we could.    We enjoyed much working with Kurt and highly recommend him.

**★★★★★ — Lillian Maimone, July 2016**

> Kurt has done three projects for us.  Design remodels of two homes and a space plan for my business.  The business space plan was immensely helpful.  Every idea was implemented and worked perfectly.  The 1st home remodel involved the laundry, bathrooms, closets and kitchen.  The most recent was a remodel for my new home in Pasadena, CA.  The home was on one of the most sought after streets in Pasadena.  It was everyone's dream yet I wanted an open floor plan, update the kitchen, and create a new outdoor entertainment patio.  He was so patient with all of the changes my husband and I.  He always offered great ideas and helped us through the though process.  He even helped us pick the top line appliances that fit.  He always took into consideration to our lifestyle in the design . He worked with the engineer and the City permits.

**★★★★★ — Alex D, June 2016**

> Kurt has been a pleasure to work with. He is courteous, knowledgable and promptly replies to all inquires. He also knows many of this small town's folks both in the city and the subs, I highly recommend Flintridge Design.

**★★★★★ — Mega Builders, June 2016**

> Kurt is a great architect to work with. He listens to the clients' wishes and preferences and truly tailors the style and the design to each and every client...and he's doing so remarkably well.
> His plans are clear, concise and very easy to work off of and he easy going demeanour is an invaluable asset during the inevitable stresses of a project.
> He is highly recommended!

**★★★★★ — ngbrowning, Sept. 2014**

> I used Flintridge Design to help me with an outdoor living area.  We had a limited hillside to work with.  Kurt was so great on letting me have a lot of input on the design and was great to work with.  The best part of the project was the amazing design software Flintridge design had.  It is 3D software and 6 years ago was a new concept for me to see.  It was so specific that it help us decide what wall to put the large TV as it showed the sunset glare at all seasons on several walls which kept us from possible making a mistake in the design of the room.  The project turned out wonderful and our builder really liked working with Kurt too.  It was a wonderful project and addition to our home.

**★★★★★ — gva3210, Aug. 2014**

> Very professional and timely work.  Kurt was easy to interact with, helpful and creative and he went the extra mile with he planning commission to get plan approvals. I would certainly use him again and probably will  at some point.

**★★★★★ — drandbromley, Aug. 2014**

> Our 1947 home had already been remodeled a few times.  We hired architect Kurt Bednar because we wanted the house to have a good flow and to avoid another haphazard addition.  Kurt was wonderful to work with.  He listened to all of our ideas and provided us with a fantastic plan that met our needs.  Kurt remodeled about 65% of the existing house and added another 35% to the square footage.  We added a master bedroom, bath and walk-in closet.  We increased the size of the old galley kitchen four fold, and it now includes both a large island and a peninsula.  We also gained an informal eating area, a double desk work area, a laundry room and a larger open family room with access to a deck and patio.  Kurt designed all of this while maintaining the original character of the house and neighborhood.  Kurt did a fantastic job, and we were delighted to work closely with him through all phases.  All of our friends, family, and neighbors love how the remodel turned out.  We couldn't be more pleased.

**★★★★★ — albertebright, Aug. 2014**

> I hired Kurt to build an extra bedroom on our home and I was very pleased with the entire project. He had very good design ideas that made the room much more functional than I could have imagined. He came in well under budget compared to the other bids I received. He hired very professional sub contractors to do all the work and checked in at the job site every morning and afternoon to make sure everything was done to his specifications. He was very mindful of our needs and kept the project on a tight timeline. He chose materials that suited our budget and did not surprise us with any change orders or last minute costs that we did not expect. I would hire him again for any size project that I may have in the future.

**★★★★★ — User, Aug. 2014**

> Kurt designed a second-story addition to my house.  The project included adding a master suite plus additional bedroom upstairs, and reconfiguring some downstairs rooms.  He was prompt, thorough, professional, and a delight to work with, and I have been absolutely thrilled with the result.  If I ever do another project, Kurt is the first person I will call.

**★★★★ — dccsmith, Aug. 2014**

> Kurt was a great partner on a big remodel we did in a 100 year old house.  Kurt had a great sensibility to preserving the character and style of the Craftsman home within the context of a very large remodel.  Kurt was creative and also very technical and understood how to communicate with our builder.  Kurt is passionate and really seems to enjoy what he does.  That was very important to us during the project as it made things fun, and we ended up with a beautiful new home.

**★★★★★ — win6060, Jan. 2014**

> I was looking for an architect that would be able to transform my galley kitchen into a kitchen/great room combination without having to bump out any areas of the home.  When Kurt presented his plan I was amazed at his ingenuity, creativity and the plans' ease of execution.  Moreover, as a newbie home renovator, Kurt assisted in patiently answering my endless questions and helped me with the endless design decisions.  In addition, he deftly and professionally handled some "interesting" personalities on the job.   He also returned my calls and emails promptly.  I am so thankful for his help and plan on using him for my next project, phase \#2, the exterior!

## Selected projects

- [Shou Sugi Ban Park City](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shou-sugi-ban-park-city-pj-vj~7867109)
  - Location: Park City, UT
  - Photos: 2
- [Fire Rebuild Projects Over 2000 sf](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fire-rebuild-projects-over-2000-sf-pj-vj~7637099)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: We have several pre-designed base plans to choose from that we customize to your liking and particular taste.
- [Berkshire La Canada](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/berkshire-la-canada-pj-vj~117992)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: This classic traditional home was in need of a major remodel. We started with the two bedrooms and bath on the 2nd floor and continued the extensive remodel to the 1st floor which included creating a circular floor plan connecting the foyer, living room, family room. Additions include a new gourmet kitchen, dining room, and bedroom/bath. This home reflects the personality and lifestyle of the owners in every detail.
- [Oakwood](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakwood-pj-vj~117986)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 17
  - Description: Custom Traditional Home Design in La Cañada Flintridge, CA This unique custom home project in La Cañada Flintridge perfectly balances elegant traditional design with modern family functionality. The home was designed to allow the clients to effortlessly raise a family and entertain company at a moment's notice. Key Design Features: Circular Floor Plan: Enhances the flow of the home by surrounding the formal living room, which is nestled seamlessly between the family room, gourmet kitchen, and pr…
- [1027 Flanders Rd](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/1027-flanders-rd-pj-vj~2271350)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 6
  - Description: Starting with a typical 1400 sf mid century ranch. My client wanted to transform her home into a traditional 5 bedroom home with all the modern technological features offered today. Including a Tesla Solar roof shingle with power wall system.
- [Paulette Place](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/paulette-place-pj-vj~118554)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 16
  - Description: We started with a traditional single story ranch home and added a second floor master suite, bedroom and 3/4 bath. The first floor was gutted to the studs, and remodeled from stem to stern. We changed the boxed-in floor plan into a circular floor plan resembling a figure eight, allowing the occupants to move through the living spaces with ease. This also gave the home a feeling of spaciousness that it never enjoyed before
- [Grand Ave LCF](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/grand-ave-lcf-pj-vj~6461490)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, California
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: The original mid-century ranch home had 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, a great room with front door entry opening directly into the room. In order to get to the kitchen you needed to walk through the dining room and there was no direct access to the expansive back yard. Phase 1 addressed these issues as well as adding a bath, laundry, new vaulted family room open to the kitchen and back yard and added a new formal entry and covered porch. phase two will add a master suit with office, new bedroom with Ja…
- [10880 Creek Road](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/10880-creek-road-pj-vj~7582793)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5
- [416 S Roosevelt](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/416-s-roosevelt-pj-vj~6478593)
  - Location: Pasadena, CA
  - Photos: 46
  - Description: Two story modern farmhouse with 4 bedrooms
- [Gould Ave](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gould-ave-pj-vj~6987568)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 1
- [1410 N. Ardmore](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/1410-n-ardmore-pj-vj~2335792)
  - Location: Manhattan Beach, CA
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: Restore Mid Century Modern remodel from earlier poor quality Tuscan remodel
- [Harter Ln. La Canada](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/harter-ln-la-canada-pj-vj~118166)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: This spectacular Spanish style hillside home was in need of breathing room. A very cramped rear yard and side porch did not lend itself to the lifestyle of the owners who enjoyed entertaining regularly. The yard over looks over 2 acres of hidden property below. recapturing this view was top priority. We connected the small patio to the rear yard with a bridge that led to the new cabana. The cabana is hexagon in shape and is the center hub of activity in the yard. At every angle this configuratio…
- [Smith Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/smith-remodel-pj-vj~438780)
  - Location: Pasadena, CA
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: An early example of Pasadena Craftsman Architecture. This estate home exemplifies the versatility of its heritage. We converted an inadequate kitchen and over-sized laundry in to a grand kitchen opening into a new great room, perfect for informal family gatherings. The gourmet kitchen includes all the latest in modern amenities, including a 48 inch range, build-in refrigerator and freezer, farm style sink, warming ovens and two dish washers. The hand-made Batch-elder tile fireplace is a work of…
- [Alveo Road La Canada Flintridge](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alveo-road-la-canada-flintridge-pj-vj~6946424)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 12
- [Regent Park](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/regent-park-pj-vj~118540)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: English Tudor Estate is nestled in the heart of Flintridge and exemplifies the craftsmanship of the period while maintaining its Old World charm and character of the original home. The project included extensive remodel and expansion of the existing family room, kitchen and 2nd floor bedrooms.
- [Bromley](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bromley-pj-vj~651603)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: Scope: Design a new addition approximately 1223 sq. ft. to include: Kitchen, family room, master bedroom, ¾ bath, walk-in closet, one bedroom and basement. Design a remodel approximately 1090 sq. ft. to include: dining room, kitchen, family room, laundry room ¾ bath and entry hall.
- [4806 Hillard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/4806-hillard-pj-vj~2274123)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: New construction of a traditional two story residential building. Dormers, 10' tong & groove ceilings, Vaulted ceilings, clear story windows, stone siding.
- [Modern Craftsman Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-craftsman-kitchen-pj-vj~438772)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 1
  - Description: A unique project combining state of the art modern appliances & finishes with old world craftsman architectural elements. Out of respect for the privacy of the client limited photos were taken of this project.
- [Design in Progress - Olive Lane, La Canada](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/design-in-progress-olive-lane-la-canada-pj-vj~1488601)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: The design scope of work will consist of a new (approx.450) sf. kitchen addition, as well as remodel (approx. 840 sf.) utility/laundry room, kitchen & family room bar. Remodel existing 144sf master bathroom and add 160 sf walk in closet/bath.
- [Outdoor Living Area](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/outdoor-living-area-pj-vj~201062)
  - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA
  - Photos: 14
  - Description: The idea was to convert a seldom used area of the yard into a inviting living space that will be used for both family and guests.

[See all 22 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/flintridge-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~344029273)

## Video

- [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1208570444.m3u8?s=0575f84d24ad4f2ef44fea03a8dcccd1ddf0d0dc&oauth2_token_id=1384357804)

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?**
Yes, we guide our clients through the complex permitting and zoning processes. Our services include creating detailed architectural and construction drawings, and our project management expertise helps navigate regulatory approvals, especially with our specialized knowledge in very high fire zones.

**What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?**
We specialize in a wide range of projects, including custom home design, new home construction, home remodeling, additions, and extensions. A core specialty is custom home design, and we are experts in fire rebuilds for homes in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

**Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?**
Yes, we provide comprehensive architectural services from initial concept through construction. Our services include architectural design, detailed construction drawings, and project management to ensure a smooth process and successful realization of your vision.

**Do you design fully custom homes?**
Absolutely! Designing fully custom homes is a core specialty for us. We collaborate closely with you to create unique architectural designs and sustainable building solutions that are perfectly tailored to your specific lifestyle and preferences.

**Do you specialize in specific architectural styles?**
We are versatile and design homes in a variety of styles, including Traditional, Boho, Colonial, and Art Deco. Our goal is to create artful, functional homes that reflect your personal aesthetic, regardless of the specific architectural style.

*FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.*

## Community Q&A

**Q: Have you ever worked with Carlisle flooring ? Would you recommend ?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: No I have not worked with them.

**Q: Where to end tile backsplash?** *(in Design Dilemma)*

I am at a loss as to where to end the backsplash tile.  We are renovating our kitchen and our upper cabinet does not line up with the end of the countertop and the counter does not extend to the end of the wall.  (The picture looks funky as the cabinet doors have not been installed yet.)  The tile will go to the bottom of the cabinets.  Would you tile the remaining strip of wall to the ceiling &amp; floor (This portion of the counter is to the right of the stovetop, where we are tiling up the entire wall) or just end it at the end of the counter?

A: I agree, always end the tile at the upper cabinet

**Q: Looking for paint colors ideas for my dark Great Room** *(in Design Dilemma)*

Multiple additions/renovations to this &quot;new to us&quot; home have left the great room with limited natural light. We are remodeling this space and I need some help! Room dimension is 30x30 with 8 foot ceilings; fireplace on the north wall has large windows on each side. Only light on the east wall is a glass door and sidelight. South wall leads to other parts of the home. On the west wall there is 4'x4' opening (former window) in the kitchen area and a 15' opening to an enclosed deck/sunroom that provides lots of bright light later in the day but diffused light earlier in the day. I'm having difficulty coming up with wall colors for the fireplace wall and the east wall. The south and west wall space is minimal so will be easy to finish out with my other color choices. Hardwood floor is a brighter mid-tone brown with golden highlights. Kitchen cabinets are a mid-darker brown tone to blend with window trim. Fireplace is a stacked travertine. Large kitchen island is Black Fusion; other countertops are Magma; backsplash is travertine planking. Planning on white baseboards, doors, and plantation shutters; oil-rubbed bronze hardware. I like neutral colors with spots of color. Inspiration piece for accent colors is a picture we'll hang over the fireplace that has dulled orange, dark olive greens, black, frame is black with filets in gold. Any ideas?

A: White walls. Use accessories to tie in the colors, pillows, curtains, furniture etc.

**Q: Help with grout color in powder room** *(in Design Dilemma)*

We're putting down marble floors in powder room. We have same type of marble in master bath but in different shape. I can't decide on grout color for powder because I read its best to go with darker color in higher traffic areas which I anticipate this will be the main bath to be used by guests. I've narrowed down to either Platinum or Delorean Gray. The powder bath tile is 12x12 and has some grays but more brownish cream/tan color than I would've liked. Do you think sticking in the gray family would look weird? I plan to paint the powder room gray paint.

A: Without question, I would normally side with the lighter, but you bring up a good point regarding the high traffic area.  If you use a good sealer I would still  be comfortable picking the lighter gray.

**Q: need advice for big reno** *(in Design Dilemma)*

Just beginning demo for big renovation.  So many questions!  I currently have a wall oven and micro/convection above it.  I would like to have double ovens.  I can keep what I have, and add a slide in unit, or I can start fresh. Obviously I save on the budget by keeping what I have, but is that a good design choice in the long run?  Considering induction, but want 36&quot;.  I am not sure there are 36&quot; slide ins.  If there are, what brands are available?  I can't do Viking or wolfe, not in the budget.  
What brands of wall units would you recommend?  I currently have Kitchenaid, and they have been fine, I had GE Monogram in previous home, and was happy with that as well.
Fixture questions:  do my faucet, drawer and cabinet pulls and lights all need to be same finish?
thank you for any advice!

A: Glad your moving forward with your reno. GE Monogram is fine, just keep all fixtures and pulls SS. I would keep them all the same. Good luck with your project...very exciting.

**Q: Should we take the leap: dark paint on bedroom walls?!** *(in Design Dilemma)*

Hi design gurus! First time renovating our very own home and want to go bold with the bedroom.  I would love to go with dark painted walls until I realized that it's dark during the long winters here and I wonder if that would make it just depressing.  Would love your thoughts and experience (and photos!) on this.
The bedroom is small (10x12), has a window with plenty of light and warm amber wood floors. We have a dark grey upholstered bed, midcentury modern teak dresser with gold hardware, and white silk carpet with dark blue streaking weaved in. Everything else we can purchase.

TL;DR Will dark bedroom walls be super depressing during long winter months?  

Inspiration photo:

A: Except for showing off delineation points (like in these bedrooms and or large openings) I stopped using dark colors on the walls more than a year ago. I rely more on paintings, pillows, bedding and furniture to pull in color (last photo)...plus it makes the room feel bigger, my clients are very happy. Keep it clean and go white this year!

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*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-09.*
