Masterbath
Example of a trendy master black tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile, white floor and double-sink bathroom design in Charlotte with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a two-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, white countertops and a floating vanity

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

By opening the wall and removing the fireplace, we were able to have greater visual access to the waterway. Form and Function was the driving force here with the end wall at the bar being utilized as a space for the plasma TV to be part time, and pivoting 180 degrees towards the LR space. Lighting was design dilemma due to the soffit requirement for mechanical made it difficult to place a standard recessed can. Since the TV was pivoting, that eliminated pendants. The finial design was to utilize LED starlight fixtures, that would pass code, and give off a very special light feature in an 11" space.

We completely gutted and renovated this historic DC rowhouse and added a rear addition and a roof deck, accessed by stairs to an enclosed structure. The client wanted to maintain a formal, traditional feel at the front of the house and add bolder and contemporary design at the back. We removed the existing partial rear addition, landings, walkways, and retaining walls. The new 3-story rear addition is across the entire width of the house, extending out 24-feet. Our original front entry design did not have a planter. However, the HPRB insisted on a planting area to maintain that original element of the house. The charcoal gray color at the trim and the front door had to be approved by HPRB. HPRB also had to review and approve our new code-compliant steps and railings to the front door.

RG Painting & Construction, Inc. is the local favorite for bathroom remodeling on the Central Coast. As a licensed general contractor and painting specialist, we deliver high-quality bathroom renovations with clean, modern, and functional designs tailored to the Santa Barbara lifestyle. With all trades in-house, we manage the entire remodel from start to finish with no delays and consistent, detailed craftsmanship. Our bathroom remodel services include: • Full bathroom renovations and layout redesigns • Vanity installation, custom cabinetry, and storage upgrades • Walk-in showers, tubs, glass enclosures, and accessibility updates • Lighting, electrical upgrades, and plumbing corrections • Painting, fine finishes, drywall, and trim work • Permitting, code compliance, and project management Why homeowners choose us: • Local, family-run contractor trusted across Santa Barbara • All trades in-house for faster timelines • High-quality craftsmanship with meticulous detail • Transparent budgeting and clear communication • Clean work process and respectful job sites Perfect for homeowners upgrading an outdated bathroom, improving functionality, increasing home value, or creating a modern, spa-inspired space. Serving Santa Barbara, Montecito, Goleta, Hope Ranch, and surrounding areas.

Originally built in 1970, this later-model Eichler—designed by architect Claude Oakland—features a distinctive “Model 14” roofline with a clipped gable, a subtle nod to the charm of English thatch-roof cottages. Acquired from the original owner, the home remained in untouched, original condition—offering a rare opportunity for restoration, but also presenting an urgent need for updates. Our approach was grounded in respect for Oakland’s original design intent, while thoughtfully incorporating essential upgrades to meet modern building codes and today’s lifestyle expectations. Eichler homes were originally built using modest, cost-effective materials to make modern architecture accessible to the growing mid-century middle class. While iconic, elements like laminate countertops, particle board cabinetry, and vinyl composition tile flooring haven’t stood the test of time. We carefully replaced these with more durable, high-quality alternatives—granite countertops, maple-ply cabinets, and luxury vinyl tile—ensuring the home remains true to its spirit while standing strong for decades to come. All images © Ken Gutmaker

An award-winning Asheville Home. The original plan for this project was much more complex, but due to the site being used as a dumping ground over the decades, the soil was unsuitable for such a design. Our challenge then became to create space that still felt contemporary and comfortable, all while staying small. As a result, the footprint of the house is modest – 24’ wide by 32’ deep. Rather than using traditional on-site framing, this project used a prefabricated, panelized system, which was a first for the office. This allowed the house to be vertical within a matter of a couple days, but admittedly, required adjustments once installed. It is insulated beyond code requirements and includes high-efficiency mechanical systems, making it net-zero ready. Just add solar panels, and this house can create as much energy as it consumes. Inside, the project has 3 bedrooms and 1-½ bathrooms. At the entry there is a double-height, plywood clad stairwell, lit by tall windows above the front door. Turning away from the stair on the main level takes you past the first bedroom (or home office) and half bath, and into the living/dining/kitchen space. Windows in this space look out onto the side- and backyard, and strategically avoid views onto the covered deck, which is accessed past the dining area. Upstairs, there are two bedrooms, the full bathroom, and a laundry closet. Skylights punctuate the upper level, bringing sunlight into all areas of the house. This home is the recipients of two awards from the 2025 WNC Parade of Homes, Including the Silver Craftsmanship award and the Green Innovation Award.

This remodel addressed issues including peeling vinyl flooring, outdated fixtures, and safety hazards due to deferred maintenance. Challenges included: sourcing budget-sensitive materials with a high-end feel; slip-resistant hexagon floor tiles; a new pedestal sink; a water-saving toilet; and a larger medicine cabinet, while correcting code violations. Universal Design created an open floor plan, low-maintenance finishes, zero-threshold entries into the bathroom and shower, in addition to highly-contrasting materials, grab bars with blocking, accessible towel bars for user convenience, and dimmable lighting with anti-glare trim. We combined modern materials for a noir style and universal functionality for our aging-in-place clients and their forever home.

New larger granite patio connecting to multiple access doors to home allows for lounging, dining, outdoor kitchen and connects to new pool. Modern touches with gravel patio joints, plantings along edge of patio, retaining walls and pool perimeter provide softening of the hardscape. Wetland permitting and enhancement plantings were required since within the wetland upland review area. Pool code compliant fencing surrounds the entire back yard space.

Hammer & Hand and architect Mitch Snyder transformed a hot, cramped, non-code-compliant attic space into a bright and functional master suite. The existing upstairs attic space had two small and hard-to-access bedrooms and a dangerous staircase. The team added a new dormer on the west side of the house which added an additional 195 square feet to the home. The new space includes a master bedroom, master bathroom with vanity and shower, separate water closet, laundry, walk-in master closet, and option to add a small bedroom (the space is currently being used as an open office area). Additional improvements to the home include an upgraded building envelope, insulation, high efficiency water heater, and minisplit heat pump. Photos by Mitchell Snyder Architecture.

This project features a custom 8-foot cedar board-on-board privacy fence, designed for both durability and timeless curb appeal. The fence is finished with a decorative top cap, adding a clean, elevated look while enhancing long-term protection from the elements. The property also includes a metal-framed electric sliding driveway gate, providing secure and convenient access, along with matching custom walk-through gates for everyday use. To complete the project, a 4-foot metal fence was installed around the pool area, meeting safety requirements while maintaining a sleek, unobtrusive design that complements the overall aesthetic of the property. If you’d like, I can also make this shorter, more luxury-focused, or tweak it to highlight security, craftsmanship, or code compliance—just tell me the tone you want.

New larger granite patio connecting to multiple access doors to home allows for lounging, dining, outdoor kitchen and connects to new pool. Modern touches with gravel patio joints, plantings along edge of patio, retaining walls and pool perimeter provide softening of the hardscape. Wetland permitting and enhancement plantings were required since within the wetland upland review area. Pool code compliant fencing surrounds the entire back yard space.

Originally built in 1970, this later-model Eichler—designed by architect Claude Oakland—features a distinctive “Model 14” roofline with a clipped gable, a subtle nod to the charm of English thatch-roof cottages. Acquired from the original owner, the home remained in untouched, original condition—offering a rare opportunity for restoration, but also presenting an urgent need for updates. Our approach was grounded in respect for Oakland’s original design intent, while thoughtfully incorporating essential upgrades to meet modern building codes and today’s lifestyle expectations. Eichler homes were originally built using modest, cost-effective materials to make modern architecture accessible to the growing mid-century middle class. While iconic, elements like laminate countertops, particle board cabinetry, and vinyl composition tile flooring haven’t stood the test of time. We carefully replaced these with more durable, high-quality alternatives—granite countertops, maple-ply cabinets, and luxury vinyl tile—ensuring the home remains true to its spirit while standing strong for decades to come. All images © Ken Gutmaker

Entrance from Kitchen
Example of a trendy light wood floor and vaulted ceiling entryway design in Charlotte with white walls and a medium wood front door

New larger granite patio connecting to multiple access doors to home allows for lounging, dining, outdoor kitchen and connects to new pool. Modern touches with gravel patio joints, plantings along edge of patio, retaining walls and pool perimeter provide softening of the hardscape. Wetland permitting and enhancement plantings were required since within the wetland upland review area. Pool code compliant fencing surrounds the entire back yard space.

Completed in 2019, this is a home we completed for client who initially engaged us to remodeled their 100 year old classic craftsman bungalow on Seattle’s Queen Anne Hill. During our initial conversation, it became readily apparent that their program was much larger than a remodel could accomplish and the conversation quickly turned toward the design of a new structure that could accommodate a growing family, a live-in Nanny, a variety of entertainment options and an enclosed garage – all squeezed onto a compact urban corner lot. Project entitlement took almost a year as the house size dictated that we take advantage of several exceptions in Seattle’s complex zoning code. After several meetings with city planning officials, we finally prevailed in our arguments and ultimately designed a 4 story, 3800 sf house on a 2700 sf lot. The finished product is light and airy with a large, open plan and exposed beams on the main level, 5 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 2 powder rooms, 2 fireplaces, 4 climate zones, a huge basement with a home theatre, guest suite, climbing gym, and an underground tavern/wine cellar/man cave. The kitchen has a large island, a walk-in pantry, a small breakfast area and access to a large deck. All of this program is capped by a rooftop deck with expansive views of Seattle’s urban landscape and Lake Union. Unfortunately for our clients, a job relocation to Southern California forced a sale of their dream home a little more than a year after they settled in after a year project. The good news is that in Seattle’s tight housing market, in less than a week they received several full price offers with escalator clauses which allowed them to turn a nice profit on the deal.

This old farmhouse (ca. late 18th century) has undergone many renovations over the years. Spring Creek Design added its stamp in 2008, with a small mudroom addition and a complete interior renovation. The addition encompasses a 1st floor mudroom with extensive cabinetry and closetry. Upon entering the space from the driveway, cabinet and countertop space is provided to accommodate incoming grocery bags. Next in line are a series of “lockers” and cubbies - just right for coats, hats and book bags. Further inside is a wrap-around window seat with cedar shoe racks beneath. A stainless steel dog feeding station rounds out the amenities - all built atop a natural Vermont slate floor. On the lower level, the addition features a full bathroom and a “Dude Pod” - a compact work and play space for the resident code monkey. Outfitted with a stand-up desk and an electronic drum kit, one needs only emerge for Mountain Dew refills and familial visits. Within the existing space, we added an ensuite bathroom for the third floor bedroom. The second floor bathroom and first floor powder room were also gutted and remodeled. The master bedroom was extensively remodeled - given a vaulted ceiling and a wall of floor-to-roof built-ins accessed with a rolling ladder. An extensive, multi-level deck and screen house was added to provide outdoor living space, with secure, dry storage below. Design Criteria: - Update house with a high sustainability standard. - Provide bathroom for daughters’ third floor bedroom. - Update remaining bathrooms - Update cramped, low ceilinged master bedroom - Provide mudroom/entryway solutions. - Provide a window seating space with good visibility of back and side yards – to keep an eye on the kids at play. - Replace old deck with a updated deck/screen porch combination. - Update sitting room with a wood stove and mantle. Special Features: - Insulated Concrete Forms used for Dude Pod foundation. - Soy-based spray foam insulation used in the addition and master bedroom. - Paperstone countertops in mudroom. - Zero-VOC paints and finishes used throughout the project. - All decking and trim for the deck/screen porch is made from 100% recycled HDPE (milk jugs, soda, water bottles) - High efficiency combination washer/dryer.

This old farmhouse (ca. late 18th century) has undergone many renovations over the years. Spring Creek Design added its stamp in 2008, with a small mudroom addition and a complete interior renovation. The addition encompasses a 1st floor mudroom with extensive cabinetry and closetry. Upon entering the space from the driveway, cabinet and countertop space is provided to accommodate incoming grocery bags. Next in line are a series of “lockers” and cubbies - just right for coats, hats and book bags. Further inside is a wrap-around window seat with cedar shoe racks beneath. A stainless steel dog feeding station rounds out the amenities - all built atop a natural Vermont slate floor. On the lower level, the addition features a full bathroom and a “Dude Pod” - a compact work and play space for the resident code monkey. Outfitted with a stand-up desk and an electronic drum kit, one needs only emerge for Mountain Dew refills and familial visits. Within the existing space, we added an ensuite bathroom for the third floor bedroom. The second floor bathroom and first floor powder room were also gutted and remodeled. The master bedroom was extensively remodeled - given a vaulted ceiling and a wall of floor-to-roof built-ins accessed with a rolling ladder. An extensive, multi-level deck and screen house was added to provide outdoor living space, with secure, dry storage below. Design Criteria: - Update house with a high sustainability standard. - Provide bathroom for daughters’ third floor bedroom. - Update remaining bathrooms - Update cramped, low ceilinged master bedroom - Provide mudroom/entryway solutions. - Provide a window seating space with good visibility of back and side yards – to keep an eye on the kids at play. - Replace old deck with a updated deck/screen porch combination. - Update sitting room with a wood stove and mantle. Special Features: - Insulated Concrete Forms used for Dude Pod foundation. - Soy-based spray foam insulation used in the addition and master bedroom. - Paperstone countertops in mudroom. - Zero-VOC paints and finishes used throughout the project. - All decking and trim for the deck/screen porch is made from 100% recycled HDPE (milk jugs, soda, water bottles) - High efficiency combination washer/dryer.

This new custom house, completed in late 2012, was designed with an accessory dwelling unit to take advantage of an allowance in the single family zoning code in Seattle. The primary dwelling, 1300 square feet on the upper two stories houses a mother and teenager. The accessory dwelling, 750 square feet, provides a leasable smaller space that can be for a tenant or downsizing in the future. Seattle based RE Store began by completely deconstructing the original home so that its salvaged parts could have a new life in other design applications. The new design for the home is modern with a sustainable theme, incorporating a palette of natural materials. The Paperstone, wood and steel staircase connects the open-plan living, dining areas and kitchen to the upstairs bedrooms and open library. Exterior decks extend the main interior living spaces while sliding glass panels allow the primary bedroom to connect. Stylishly visible from all rooms in the open interior living spaces are two complementary objects, both lit from within, a frosted lexan pantry and a slatted reclaimed fir bathroom, with wood sourced from Windfall Lumber. Throughout the home, finishes are simple and minimal: polished concrete flooring, bright-white walls, and formaldehyde-free sapele and maple cabinetry. The main kitchen is outfitted with Ecotop counters and a custom sapele wood island that has large, handle-free pullout drawers on the cooking side and a built-in wine rack on the other. Maximizing storage, a custom built-in apple plywood bench and open wooden box shelves provide extra space. A model of efficiency, the home maximizes the performance of the envelope of the building. The reclaimed fir car decking wrapped around the exterior from Windfall Lumber, creates the rainscreen siding and is sourced locally from a deconstructed warehouse in Tacoma WA. In addition, access to daylight through high-performance glazing, solar preheat for domestic hot water needs, in-floor radiant heating and a green roof created by the owner adds to the efficiency. Photo Credit & Design: b9 architects