Karen and Chad of Tower Lakes, IL were tired of their unfinished basement functioning as nothing more than a storage area and depressing gym. They wanted to increase the livable square footage of their home with a cohesive finished basement design, while incorporating space for the kids and adults to hang out. “We wanted to make sure that upon renovating the basement, that we can have a place where we can spend time and watch movies, but also entertain and showcase the wine collection that we have,” Karen said. After a long search comparing many different remodeling companies, Karen and Chad found Advance Design Studio. They were drawn towards the unique “Common Sense Remodeling” process that simplifies the renovation experience into predictable steps focused on customer satisfaction. “There are so many other design/build companies, who may not have transparency, or a focused process in mind and I think that is what separated Advance Design Studio from the rest,” Karen said. Karen loved how designer Claudia Pop was able to take very high-level concepts, “non-negotiable items” and implement them in the initial 3D drawings. Claudia and Project Manager DJ Yurik kept the couple in constant communication through the project. “Claudia was very receptive to the ideas we had, but she was also very good at infusing her own points and thoughts, she was very responsive, and we had an open line of communication,” Karen said. A very important part of the basement renovation for the couple was the home gym and sauna. The “high-end hotel” look and feel of the openly blended work out area is both highly functional and beautiful to look at. The home sauna gives them a place to relax after a long day of work or a tough workout. “The gym was a very important feature for us,” Karen said. “And I think (Advance Design) did a very great job in not only making the gym a functional area, but also an aesthetic point in our basement”. An extremely unique wow-factor in this basement is the walk in glass wine cellar that elegantly displays Karen and Chad’s extensive wine collection. Immediate access to the stunning wet bar accompanies the wine cellar to make this basement a popular spot for friends and family. The custom-built wine bar brings together two natural elements; Calacatta Vicenza Quartz and thick distressed Black Walnut. Sophisticated yet warm Graphite Dura Supreme cabinetry provides contrast to the soft beige walls and the Calacatta Gold backsplash. An undermount sink across from the bar in a matching Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop adds functionality and convenience to the bar, while identical distressed walnut floating shelves add an interesting design element and increased storage. Rich true brown Rustic Oak hardwood floors soften and warm the space drawing all the areas together. Across from the bar is a comfortable living area perfect for the family to sit down at a watch a movie. A full bath completes this finished basement with a spacious walk-in shower, Cocoa Brown Dura Supreme vanity with Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop, a crisp white sink and a stainless-steel Voss faucet. Advance Design’s Common Sense process gives clients the opportunity to walk through the basement renovation process one step at a time, in a completely predictable and controlled environment. “Everything was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to it’s full potential,” Karen said. Constantly striving for customer satisfaction, Advance Design’s success is heavily reliant upon happy clients referring their friends and family. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a remodeling project small or large,” Karen exclaimed at the completion of her project.

Remodeled bath is no longer divided, features a barrier free shower and stationary single glass shower partition. Toto toilet with washout, and furniture-like vanity cabinet with vessel sink and wall mounted waterfall faucet. Photo by Timothy Manning

Karen and Chad of Tower Lakes, IL were tired of their unfinished basement functioning as nothing more than a storage area and depressing gym. They wanted to increase the livable square footage of their home with a cohesive finished basement design, while incorporating space for the kids and adults to hang out. “We wanted to make sure that upon renovating the basement, that we can have a place where we can spend time and watch movies, but also entertain and showcase the wine collection that we have,” Karen said. After a long search comparing many different remodeling companies, Karen and Chad found Advance Design Studio. They were drawn towards the unique “Common Sense Remodeling” process that simplifies the renovation experience into predictable steps focused on customer satisfaction. “There are so many other design/build companies, who may not have transparency, or a focused process in mind and I think that is what separated Advance Design Studio from the rest,” Karen said. Karen loved how designer Claudia Pop was able to take very high-level concepts, “non-negotiable items” and implement them in the initial 3D drawings. Claudia and Project Manager DJ Yurik kept the couple in constant communication through the project. “Claudia was very receptive to the ideas we had, but she was also very good at infusing her own points and thoughts, she was very responsive, and we had an open line of communication,” Karen said. A very important part of the basement renovation for the couple was the home gym and sauna. The “high-end hotel” look and feel of the openly blended work out area is both highly functional and beautiful to look at. The home sauna gives them a place to relax after a long day of work or a tough workout. “The gym was a very important feature for us,” Karen said. “And I think (Advance Design) did a very great job in not only making the gym a functional area, but also an aesthetic point in our basement”. An extremely unique wow-factor in this basement is the walk in glass wine cellar that elegantly displays Karen and Chad’s extensive wine collection. Immediate access to the stunning wet bar accompanies the wine cellar to make this basement a popular spot for friends and family. The custom-built wine bar brings together two natural elements; Calacatta Vicenza Quartz and thick distressed Black Walnut. Sophisticated yet warm Graphite Dura Supreme cabinetry provides contrast to the soft beige walls and the Calacatta Gold backsplash. An undermount sink across from the bar in a matching Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop adds functionality and convenience to the bar, while identical distressed walnut floating shelves add an interesting design element and increased storage. Rich true brown Rustic Oak hardwood floors soften and warm the space drawing all the areas together. Across from the bar is a comfortable living area perfect for the family to sit down at a watch a movie. A full bath completes this finished basement with a spacious walk-in shower, Cocoa Brown Dura Supreme vanity with Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop, a crisp white sink and a stainless-steel Voss faucet. Advance Design’s Common Sense process gives clients the opportunity to walk through the basement renovation process one step at a time, in a completely predictable and controlled environment. “Everything was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to it’s full potential,” Karen said. Constantly striving for customer satisfaction, Advance Design’s success is heavily reliant upon happy clients referring their friends and family. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a remodeling project small or large,” Karen exclaimed at the completion of her project.

Whon Photography
Large urban underground carpeted staircase photo in Indianapolis with gray walls and no fireplace

It’s always an excellent idea to renovate some corners in your house if you are looking to sell. It is crucial for you to remember to ‘sell it right,’ which means doing the upgrades and renovations accurately for your homebuyer. Some of the best home renovations — for instance, an upgraded kitchen, remodeled bathroom, or a new deck — can get expensive. This is why it is important to know what kind of return you might expect before you think of taking on a remodeling project.   Top Home Renovations in 2021   If you have smartly budgeted for major remodeling projects, here are some of the upgrades that will immediately add more value to your homes:   Kitchen Remodel   People can go wild in kitchen renovations, but it’s not always required. A kitchen remodeling, if done the right way, is certain to add more value to your home. You will love an even higher return if you remodel a kitchen with traditional designs and builds. This will include replacing your cabinets, refrigerator, stove, flooring, and even sinks and faucets.   Nowadays, a kitchen’s functionality and convenience are becoming more and more important. For instance, lowered light switches, cabinets, and racks can make it simpler for an elderly person or someone with a disability to explore the kitchen if they use a wheelchair. Cabinets with a hydraulic system can make it possible for a homeowner to move their position, ensuring it’s available within your reach no matter your mobility level.   Improving Your Outdoor Appeal   The outdoor appeal is basically the first impression of your home. That old front door, cracked driveway won’t help potential buyers feel an eternal connection with your home. The outdoor appeal can be improved with the application of new paint, gardening, or attractive landscaping. Hence, it is necessary for you to consider beforehand what improvements you are going to make, what you can do yourself, and what you need to outsource.   Begin where your property meets the main street. Are the walls well maintained and colored? Do driveways need to be redone or just a quick water blast to clean them? Do you need to paint your door or close the cracks on them or add a couple of planter pots to give more warmth to the entrance?   More expensive things include painting your house, adding a deck, or fencing your property. Before taking these costly projects, do seek professional advice about whether this will increase your property’s value.   Including Square Footage to Your Home   As mentioned above, expensive additions in remodeling include house extensions and reconfigurations of old rooms. This may lead to a larger ROI, so they’re worth assessing. You may want to add a bedroom, build a home office corner, make the living area by making it more spacious or add another bathroom. These extensions all add value to your home, but you’ll want to guarantee that you can get your money back once you sell the property.   Big projects are more expensive. Homeowners may want to think of applying for a home improvement loan to help them finance the project or ensure they have financial assistance in case the cost goes over the board.   The Bottom Line   Renovating your home not only adds to your excitement but can also increase your home’s value over time, as well.   If you live in an urban area, your listing might be competing with other upgraded homes to grab the buyers’ attention. When you refinance your house, for example, remodeling will be considered when a property appraiser studies your home’s current market value. Higher home value means you’ll get more equity and a lower loan-to-value ratio. Moreover, you might even be able to cancel personal mortgage insurance payments earlier than expected.   When you decide to sell your home, buyers will expect to see a clean, attractive home with modern updates that’s ready to move in.

Priority Remodeling's Exquisite One-Bedroom ADU Project In the world of home improvement and design, every so often, a project emerges that flawlessly marries aesthetics with functionality. The recent completion of a one-bedroom Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) by Priority Remodeling stands as a testament to this golden rule. As one steps into the space, the first thing that catches the eye is the immaculate and contemporary design of the room. Muted gray walls serve as the perfect backdrop, enhancing the natural brightness of the room, thanks to the strategically positioned windows. The window blinds, neatly tucked away, provide options for privacy while allowing natural light to illuminate the space. The minimalist office area showcases a sleek wooden desk paired with a luxurious leather chair. A simple potted plant adds a touch of organic green, giving a nod to the importance of biophilic design elements. With ample space for working or studying, it offers the perfect environment for productivity and focus. Transitioning into the bedroom area, the understated elegance continues. The centerpiece - a comfortable bed with crisp white linens - invites rest and relaxation. The headboard's unique nailhead trim design adds a touch of sophistication without overpowering the room. Adjacent to it, a cozy sitting area with a leather lounge chair and throw pillow makes for an ideal reading or relaxation spot. Both practical and aesthetic, the choice of wooden flooring complements the neutral color palette, warming up the space and providing continuity. The floor seamlessly ties the different areas together, creating a cohesive and harmonious environment. In sum, Priority Remodeling's recent ADU project is a masterclass in modern interior design. Each element has been meticulously chosen and placed, ensuring both functionality and beauty. This ADU is not just a living space; it's an experience. A testament to the prowess and vision of Priority Remodeling. --------- In recent years, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have surged in popularity among homeowners, and for a multitude of good reasons. These self-contained living spaces, often constructed in the backyard or converted from existing structures like garages, bring forth a myriad of benefits: Additional Income Stream: One of the most immediate benefits of an ADU is the potential for rental income. Homeowners can rent out these units to tenants, providing a steady stream of revenue that can help offset mortgage payments or other expenses. Increased Property Value: Well-designed and constructed ADUs can significantly increase a property's value. It's not just about the added square footage but also the flexibility and functionality that such a space offers. Housing Flexibility: ADUs can serve multiple purposes over time. They can start as a home office, transition to a living space for a college-going child, and later serve as a residence for aging parents. This adaptability is invaluable in ever-changing life scenarios. Sustainable Living: Smaller spaces typically consume fewer resources, both in their construction and daily operation. This makes ADUs an environmentally friendly choice for those keen on reducing their carbon footprint. Community Building: ADUs can help address housing shortages in dense urban areas. By providing affordable rental options, they contribute to community diversity and vitality. Privacy with Proximity: For families looking to support relatives (like elderly parents or adult children), an ADU offers the perfect balance. Family members live close by, fostering connection and support, yet both parties maintain their privacy. Cost-effective Expansion: Compared to the costs associated with buying a larger home or constructing a full-fledged home addition, ADUs often present a more economical solution to gaining extra living space. Incorporating an ADU into one's property is not just about creating additional space but about unlocking a range of benefits that enhance both the financial and functional aspects of homeownership. As seen in Priority Remodeling's recent project, an ADU can also be a pinnacle of design and comfort, proving that with the right vision, even compact spaces can offer a grand living experience.

Small elegant gray one-story mixed siding gable roof photo in Charleston

Yorkstone is a variety of Sandstone unique to Yorkshire, and is known for its hard wearing and durable qualities. It was first manufactured during medieval times, but is still used for a range of building and construction purposes including, of course, tiled floors in houses. Yorkstone comes in a variety of natural colours, depending on the mineral makeup of the stone, and means that the tiled floors often have a unique look to them. This customer, living in the small Yorkshire town of Driffield is the lucky owner of a fantastic new Yorkstone tiled living room floor. Unfortunately, the floor had been installed by an independent builder, as opposed to a professional tiling company, and had been left with no sealer to ensure it would stay looking great for a long time to come. Over time, the lack of a sealer has allowed the dirt to become ingrained in the stone, making it increasingly difficult for the customer to keep the tiles clean. I was called in to bring completion to what was an unfinished job! As you can see from the photographs, the entire floor was quite dusty and dull looking following the recent installation. To get the tiles clean, I mixed a strong 60-40 mix of Tile Doctor Pro Clean and clean water. Pro Clean is a reliable alkaline cleaner suitable for use on most natural stone floors, including Sandstone, Quarry, and Slate. The cleaning solution was applied to the floor and left to dwell for 20 minutes, allowing it time to penetrate the stone. Then, using my 17” rotary machine fitted with a black scrubbing pad, I proceeded to deep clean the tiles, leaving them looking immediately cleaner and more vibrant. Any resulting cleaning residue was promptly soaked up using a wet vacuum. The process was repeated in the more stubborn areas, and I gave the floor a final rinse with water and left it to dry. Typically, we would leave a 12 to 24 hour drying period, depending on whether there is a damp proof membrane installed. However, this floor had underfloor heating and so dried really quickly, allowing me to seal it on the same day. The customer wished to have a matt, natural finish for the Yorkstone tiled living room, so I applied two coats of Tile Doctor Colour Grow, our impregnating sealer which offers a natural, no-sheen look for textured floors, while providing durable protection against ingrained dirt and stains. As the name of the product suggests, Colour Grow contains colour intensifying properties which really helped to accentuate the rich variety of colours in the customer’s Yorkstone tiles. The results were fantastic and you can see from the water test we performed after the sealer dried how water now bubbles up on the surface of the stone. Ronnie Phipps East Yorkshire Tile Doctor

Karen and Chad of Tower Lakes, IL were tired of their unfinished basement functioning as nothing more than a storage area and depressing gym. They wanted to increase the livable square footage of their home with a cohesive finished basement design, while incorporating space for the kids and adults to hang out. “We wanted to make sure that upon renovating the basement, that we can have a place where we can spend time and watch movies, but also entertain and showcase the wine collection that we have,” Karen said. After a long search comparing many different remodeling companies, Karen and Chad found Advance Design Studio. They were drawn towards the unique “Common Sense Remodeling” process that simplifies the renovation experience into predictable steps focused on customer satisfaction. “There are so many other design/build companies, who may not have transparency, or a focused process in mind and I think that is what separated Advance Design Studio from the rest,” Karen said. Karen loved how designer Claudia Pop was able to take very high-level concepts, “non-negotiable items” and implement them in the initial 3D drawings. Claudia and Project Manager DJ Yurik kept the couple in constant communication through the project. “Claudia was very receptive to the ideas we had, but she was also very good at infusing her own points and thoughts, she was very responsive, and we had an open line of communication,” Karen said. A very important part of the basement renovation for the couple was the home gym and sauna. The “high-end hotel” look and feel of the openly blended work out area is both highly functional and beautiful to look at. The home sauna gives them a place to relax after a long day of work or a tough workout. “The gym was a very important feature for us,” Karen said. “And I think (Advance Design) did a very great job in not only making the gym a functional area, but also an aesthetic point in our basement”. An extremely unique wow-factor in this basement is the walk in glass wine cellar that elegantly displays Karen and Chad’s extensive wine collection. Immediate access to the stunning wet bar accompanies the wine cellar to make this basement a popular spot for friends and family. The custom-built wine bar brings together two natural elements; Calacatta Vicenza Quartz and thick distressed Black Walnut. Sophisticated yet warm Graphite Dura Supreme cabinetry provides contrast to the soft beige walls and the Calacatta Gold backsplash. An undermount sink across from the bar in a matching Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop adds functionality and convenience to the bar, while identical distressed walnut floating shelves add an interesting design element and increased storage. Rich true brown Rustic Oak hardwood floors soften and warm the space drawing all the areas together. Across from the bar is a comfortable living area perfect for the family to sit down at a watch a movie. A full bath completes this finished basement with a spacious walk-in shower, Cocoa Brown Dura Supreme vanity with Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop, a crisp white sink and a stainless-steel Voss faucet. Advance Design’s Common Sense process gives clients the opportunity to walk through the basement renovation process one step at a time, in a completely predictable and controlled environment. “Everything was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to it’s full potential,” Karen said. Constantly striving for customer satisfaction, Advance Design’s success is heavily reliant upon happy clients referring their friends and family. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a remodeling project small or large,” Karen exclaimed at the completion of her project.

In recent years, the way people watch television has changed dramatically. Traditional cable and satellite subscriptions are gradually being replaced by modern streaming technologies that offer greater flexibility, more content, and better accessibility. Among the growing number of IPTV solutions available today, Hakuna TV, also known as Hakuna IPTV, is becoming a popular choice for users looking for a premium streaming experience at home.
With the rapid development of smart TVs, high-speed internet connections, and streaming devices, IPTV services have become an essential part of modern home entertainment systems. Hakuna TV provides access to thousands of international channels, live sports events, movies, and on-demand content — all through a simple internet connection.
This new generation of television allows viewers to enjoy content anytime, anywhere, without the limitations of traditional broadcasting.
What Is IPTV and How Does It Work?
IPTV stands for Internet Protocol Television, a technology that delivers television content over the internet instead of through satellite signals or cable networks.
Unlike traditional television services, IPTV streams content directly to devices such as:

• Smart TVs
  
• Streaming boxes
  
• Smartphones
  
• Tablets
  
• Computers
  
• 
  

This method allows users to access live television channels, video-on-demand content, and catch-up TV with significantly more flexibility.
Services like Hakuna IPTV make it possible to centralize all entertainment in one place, offering a wide range of international channels and media libraries.
Why Modern Homes Are Switching to IPTV
As homes become increasingly connected and digital, many families are upgrading their entertainment systems to include smart TVs and streaming platforms. IPTV fits perfectly into this modern ecosystem.
There are several reasons why IPTV services such as Hakuna TV are gaining popularity among viewers worldwide:
1. Unlimited Content Variety
Traditional cable television often limits viewers to a fixed selection of channels. IPTV services, however, provide access to thousands of international channels from different countries.
With Hakuna IPTV, users can explore content from across the globe including:

• International television channels
  
• Sports broadcasts
  
• Movies and series
  
• News and documentaries
  
• Entertainment channels
  
• 
  

This variety allows users to tailor their viewing experience to their preferences.
2. Perfect for Sports and Football Fans
Sports are among the most watched television programs worldwide, and football remains the most popular sport in Europe and many other regions.
Many IPTV users choose services like Hakuna TV specifically for sports coverage. With the right IPTV setup, viewers can watch major sporting events, international leagues, and tournaments in high-quality streaming.
Football fans especially appreciate having access to a wide range of sports channels that broadcast games from different competitions.
With a reliable IPTV provider, fans no longer have to miss important matches.
3. Seamless Integration with Smart TVs
One of the biggest advantages of IPTV services is compatibility with modern smart TVs and streaming devices.
Hakuna IPTV works with many popular platforms including:

• Samsung Smart TVs
  
• LG Smart TVs
  
• Android TV devices
  
• Amazon Fire Stick
  
• Android smartphones and tablets
  
• 
  

This compatibility allows users to create a modern home cinema setup with minimal effort.
Instead of installing complex satellite equipment, viewers simply install an IPTV player and enter their account credentials.
Within minutes, the entire entertainment library becomes available.
A New Era of Home Entertainment
Modern living spaces increasingly revolve around digital technology and connected devices. From smart lighting systems to intelligent speakers and streaming platforms, homes today are designed to offer convenience and entertainment.
In this environment, IPTV services like Hakuna TV play an important role by simplifying how people access television content.
Rather than relying on traditional broadcast infrastructure, IPTV allows viewers to enjoy their favorite shows and sports events with just an internet connection.
This technology also allows for:

• faster channel switching
  
• improved streaming quality
  
• greater flexibility for viewers
  
• 
  

For many households, IPTV has become the preferred way to consume television.
Easy Setup and Installation
Another advantage of IPTV services is their simplicity.
Setting up Hakuna TV typically requires only a few steps:

1. Install an IPTV player on the device
   
2. Enter the account credentials
   
3. Start streaming immediately
   
4. 
   

Most IPTV players provide intuitive interfaces that make navigation easy even for users with limited technical experience.
This ease of installation makes IPTV accessible to a wide range of users.
High-Quality Streaming Experience

We used: Custom cherry cabinetry in Arts & Crafts Shaker style by Kabinart in Boulder and Espresso stains. Liberty Hardware Venetian bronze 1-1/2" cabinet knobs. KitchenAid Architect II Series 22 CF counter-depth French door refrigerator. KitchenAid Architect Series II 27" convection single wall oven. KitchenAid 36" 6-burner dual fuel freestanding commercial-style range. KitchenAid Architect II Series 24" dishwasher. Sharp Insight Pro Series 24" built-in microwave drawer (Model #KB6524PS). Crystorama Solaris 12" wide pendant lights in English bronze. Granite countertops in Brown Fantasy. 3"x6" polished marble backsplash. Paint colors: Walls: Glidden Silver Cloud 30YY 63/024 Ceilings/Trims/Doors: Glidden Swan White GLC23 Robert B. Narod Photography

These traditional closet doors feature smaller, fixed louvers in the top and colonial raised panels in the bottom and are custom sized to fit your openings. To receive a quote on our Fixed Louver over Raised Panel doors follow the "Visit Store" link: below.

Let's face it: times are changing. We're living in an era where technology advances at a fast pace and its developments have a significant impact on the surroundings. The need for environmental solutions has become more urgent with each passing day. While we live and adapt to our immediate environment, it doesn't mean that we have to settle with what's present, especially when our surrounding conditions are becoming detrimental to our wellbeing. This is the reason Singapore architects are looking into eco-friendly approaches when designing residential spaces. Singapore architects are becoming more proactive in integrating eco-friendly principles in their residential projects. Below are some of the standout reasons why: 1. You get to practice energy efficiency. In typical homes, electricity is powered by non-renewable sources. The continuous use of non-renewable energy increases carbon footprint and worsens air pollution, both of which negatively affect the environment. However, there are alternative sources of energy that can be included in your home's architectural design. These include solar panels and wind turbines that produce electricity that can keep the house powered. These methods do not produce toxic compounds or carbon emissions; they are also renewable and do not incur recurring expenses. 2. Eco-friendly architecture brings you closer to a more "natural environment." The emergence of urban landscapes has deprived today's generation of the opportunity to be one with nature. Individuals these days have to travel to the countryside to enjoy nature's beauty and all the amazing benefits it has to offer. Fortunately, eco-friendly architecture provides a route where you can better appreciate many of the benefits nature offers. As a homeowner, you must enjoy a calm, clean, and fresh indoor environment. Eco-friendly approaches to homes aim to provide this kind of atmosphere through the use of local materials, renewable energy sources, and incorporating nature's elements (such as sunlight and air ventilation) on the structural design. 3. You save money for maintenance and upkeep. Eco-friendly architecture is known for its low maintenance costs. At first glance, you may find it expensive to build a "green home." However, since it makes use of renewable energy sources and local resources for upkeep, operational costs become much cheaper compared to living in a conventional home. Also, green homes promote material efficiency. Apart from using local resources, eco-friendly construction involves building processes that generate as little waste as possible. Recycled and reusable materials are preferred in building the home, while the architectural design follows construction techniques that use less energy, water, and raw materials. 4. You enjoy better health. Living in a green home offers a lot of health benefits. For instance, eco-friendly architecture supports the use of natural materials and it discourages having plastic by-products in the building process. At the same time, eco-friendly architectural designs look into utilising vertical space to boost freedom of movement and air circulation. These spatial strategies allow you to breathe better even while indoors and move around the house without feeling cramped. Lastly, utilising vertical space offers more natural light to enter the home. Natural light is essential not just because it illuminates the house during the day, it also regulates the circadian rhythm, which dictates our body's waking and sleeping hours. In a nutshell Eco-friendly homes can help you save money and time, not to mention improve your health dramatically. Moreover, it can also help reduce your environmental footprint significantly. From improving air quality to helping regulate the effects of climate change, eco-friendly homes allow you to live a more sustainable lifestyle.

Door #10 FP3190 Flat 3 Panel Interior Door with Farmhouse Sticking Solid Poplar stiles and rails MDF panels Painted White 1 x 4 door casing 1 x 6 baseboard Bravura 336B door knob Call us for a quote on your door project 419-684-9582 Visit https://www.door.cc

Inspiration for a contemporary home design remodel in London

Rob Karosis
Example of a classic hallway design in New York

The Setup The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home. The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic. Design Objectives: Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”) Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows) Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space Design Challenges: The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views) Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available The Renewed Space Design Solutions: The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.

The Setup The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home. The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic. Design Objectives: Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”) Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows) Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space Design Challenges: The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views) Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available The Renewed Space Design Solutions: The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.

The Setup The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home. The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic. Design Objectives: Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”) Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows) Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space Design Challenges: The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views) Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available The Renewed Space Design Solutions: The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.