Located in the Sky Lofts building in Tribeca (once home to the most expensive apartment sale in NYC), our clients were ready to renovate and modernize their centerpiece kitchen. Due to the unique nature of loft renovations (high ceilings, columns, creative and skillful lighting applications, among other factors), Gallery’s expertise in loft spaces was vital to our clients. In addition to the loft particularities, it’s important in a kitchen of this size to ensure that all the elements have been laid out with purpose from a functional perspective and a design perspective. CENTERPIECE KITCHEN Color was an important design element in this kitchen. This is evident in the striking blues and grays of the marble countertops and backsplash, as well as the dark navy hue of the built-in cabinets. White lower cabinets create two-tone contrast, while glass cabinets and a long wood open shelf make the most of the available height. The built-in cabinets also include built-in appliances: an espresso maker, coffee machine, two side-by-side wine fridges, and even an integrated refrigerator paneled to match the cabinetry for an essentially seamless look. The cabinets are all push-to-open, eliminating knobs to complete the overall sleek, contemporary style. The marble backsplash is also book-matched, meaning the slabs of stone have been cut and polished to match each other, creating a mirroring effect that further contributes to the cohesive, contemporary aesthetic of this apartment. BUILDING CONSIDERATIONS Functional factors are another vital component to New York City apartment building renovations. In this particular project, we had to consider how to get large slabs of stone into the loft without having to cut them up. When working with slabs, and especially when the design is as sleek and contemporary as this one, it’s vital to eliminate seams as much as possible. Elevators and stairs are often not large enough to handle large slabs of stone, which means there are only two other options: cutting the stone and putting it back together on site (but this will create a seam, so it’s not always an option) or using a crane to bring it in through a window. Higher-end buildings tend to have more restrictions and management companies with stricter renovation guidelines – with good reason. A good relationship with the super and staff of the building is absolutely essential; effective communication with everyone involved will result in an ideal outcome for all parties. ARTFUL LOGISTICS Seemingly minor elements such as apartment protections are also just as crucial. While every renovation will require protections in hallways, common spaces, zip walls, and perhaps the floors, those protections are doubled when renovating in an apartment that’s currently occupied. In the case of this particular client, who owned a great deal of valuable artwork in addition to their furniture and other belongings, Gallery exacted their own form of art when putting the protections in place and maneuvering around them with skill. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - Unique marble slabs (Azul Macauba quartzite and Calacatta Diamond quartzite) for the countertops and backsplash - Book-matched backsplash - Gaggenau appliances - Glass cabinets with built-in lighting - Custom millwork for the cabinets

Mike and Anne of Barrington Hills desperately needed to update and renovate both their kid’s hall bath and guest bath, and in their 1980’s home each project presented a different set of unique challenges to overcome. When they set out to identify the right remodeling company to partner with, it was important to find a company that could help them to visualize design solutions for the bath renovations. When they came across Advance Design Studio’s website, they were immediately drawn to the solution-oriented remodeling process and the family friendly company. They say they chose Advance Design because of the integrated approach of “Common Sense Remodeling”, making the design, project management and construction all happen in one place. When they met with Project Designer Michelle Lecinski, they knew they chose the right company. “Michelle’s excellent work on the initial designs made it easy to proceed with Advance Design Studio,” Mike said. Like most homeowners anticipating a big renovation project, they had some healthy fears; with two bathrooms being remodeled at the same time they worried about timeframes and staying within budget. With the help of Michelle, and the “Common Sense” guidelines, they were confident that Advance Design would stay true, orchestrating all the moving parts to stay within both the estimated timeline and budget. The guest bath offered the biggest design challenge. A dormer obstruction made the already cramped shower awkward to access. Mike and Anne also wanted the shower size to be expanded, making it more accommodating. Working with Advance’s construction expert DJ Yurik, Michelle relocated the shower concealing the original dormer and creating a larger, more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing guest shower. The unsightly and not at all user-friendly closet was removed and replaced with elegant White Maple Dura Supreme cabinetry with much improved function featuring dual tall linen cabinets, a special makeup area and two sinks, providing a dual vanity which was extremely important for better guest use. The Fossil Brown quartz countertop is in pleasing contrast to the white cabinetry, and coordinates nicely with the mocha porcelain tile gracing the shower for an accent. The decorative glazed turquoise tile backsplash, tile border, and bottle niche adds a taste of marine green to the room, while marble-looking porcelain tile makes guests feel they are staying in a 5-star hotel. Polished nickel Kohler plumbing fixtures were chosen to add a touch of sophistication. This renovated guest bath is comfortable and elegant, and Anne and Mike’s house guests may never want to leave! “The end result was updated and restyled bathrooms that the client will enjoy and increase the value of their home,” Designer Michelle said. The children’s hall bath had its own set of challenges. The current placement of the sink was not conducive to the best use of the existing space, nor did it allow for any visual interest, something Advance’s designers always work to achieve even within the tight confines of a small bath. Advance removed the linen closet and used the gain in wall space to create a dramatic focal point on the vanity wall. They also took additional space that wasn’t being used for new Storm Gray Dura Supreme tall built-in linen cabinets, creating functional storage space that the former bath lacked. A customized glass splash panel was created for the bath, and the high ceilings with skylights were accented with a custom-made track lighting fixture featuring industrial pipe and cage materials. Authentic cement encaustic tile was used wall to wall surrounding the vanity to create a dramatic and interesting back drop for the new elegant and stately furniture-like double sink wall. Hand-made encaustic tile originated in Western Europe beginning in the 1850’s and reminded Mike and Anne of tile they had seen and loved from their travels overseas. Today, encaustic tile has made a re-appearance in today’s modern bath design with its wide array of appealing patterns and artistic use of color. Oil rubbed bronze Kohler fixtures echo the black accents in the beautiful tile pattern and reflect the matte black of the unique lighting detail. Easy to maintain Blanca Arabescato Quartz countertops add practicality and natural beauty and compliments the warm wood porcelain tile floors. This handsome bath has generated praise from friends and family even before it’s complete unveiling as photos of the space leaked out on social media! It’s not only completely functional to use, but especially pretty to look at. “Advance Design Studio did a terrific job for us. We really appreciated how easy it was to work with them on a complex project of the complete remodeling of two bathrooms. They very capably handled all the details from design, to project management, to construction. It is a great group of people to work with and we would welcome the opportunity to work with them again anytime,” Mike said.

Located directly across from the Statehouse, this magnificent 6,350 square foot townhome restoration perfectly illustrates Haycon’s mastery in high end construction. Working closely with the design team over the course of a year and a half renovation project, 75 Hancock was stripped to the shell and completely transformed. The end result is a remarkable single family home which boasts incredible historic architectural detail while providing a luxurious space including the highest level of finishes, high-end appliances, and the addition of a residential elevator. Haycon appreciates the special attention to stringent preservation guidelines required when working in a historic district such as Beacon Hill. We also recognize the importance of proactive planning and communication with neighbors and neighborhood organizations such as the Beacon Hill Civic Association.

Despite the challenge of a limited lot size, property setbacks, and strict lot coverage requirements, LandStudio360 designed a space for this new Baker Ranch home that complied with the HOA Design Guidelines yet pushed the design to the limits which satisfied the homeowners' desires. The custom shaped contemporary pool and spa fit set the tone of the yard as the primary view feature from inside the home. The expansive sideyard provided opportunity to expand the living space to the outdoors with the addition of a covered great room warm enough to spend winter evenings snuggled up by the fire or hosting large family gatherings. This yard has become the hangout spot for all friends and family.

Despite the challenge of a limited lot size, property setbacks, and strict lot coverage requirements, LandStudio360 designed a space for this new Baker Ranch home that complied with the HOA Design Guidelines yet pushed the design to the limits which satisfied the homeowners' desires. The custom shaped contemporary pool and spa fit set the tone of the yard as the primary view feature from inside the home. The expansive sideyard provided opportunity to expand the living space to the outdoors with the addition of a covered great room warm enough to spend winter evenings snuggled up by the fire or hosting large family gatherings. This yard has become the hangout spot for all friends and family.

The new Dining Room gable and side entry canopy provides some much need curb appeal.
Mid-sized elegant blue one-story wood exterior home photo in Other with a shingle roof

Beautiful deck & trellis project that connects to the kitchen and dining room for an amazing indoor - outdoor connection.
Example of a mid-sized trendy backyard deck design in Other with a roof extension

Mike and Anne of Barrington Hills desperately needed to update and renovate both their kid’s hall bath and guest bath, and in their 1980’s home each project presented a different set of unique challenges to overcome. When they set out to identify the right remodeling company to partner with, it was important to find a company that could help them to visualize design solutions for the bath renovations. When they came across Advance Design Studio’s website, they were immediately drawn to the solution-oriented remodeling process and the family friendly company. They say they chose Advance Design because of the integrated approach of “Common Sense Remodeling”, making the design, project management and construction all happen in one place. When they met with Project Designer Michelle Lecinski, they knew they chose the right company. “Michelle’s excellent work on the initial designs made it easy to proceed with Advance Design Studio,” Mike said. Like most homeowners anticipating a big renovation project, they had some healthy fears; with two bathrooms being remodeled at the same time they worried about timeframes and staying within budget. With the help of Michelle, and the “Common Sense” guidelines, they were confident that Advance Design would stay true, orchestrating all the moving parts to stay within both the estimated timeline and budget. The guest bath offered the biggest design challenge. A dormer obstruction made the already cramped shower awkward to access. Mike and Anne also wanted the shower size to be expanded, making it more accommodating. Working with Advance’s construction expert DJ Yurik, Michelle relocated the shower concealing the original dormer and creating a larger, more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing guest shower. The unsightly and not at all user-friendly closet was removed and replaced with elegant White Maple Dura Supreme cabinetry with much improved function featuring dual tall linen cabinets, a special makeup area and two sinks, providing a dual vanity which was extremely important for better guest use. The Fossil Brown quartz countertop is in pleasing contrast to the white cabinetry, and coordinates nicely with the mocha porcelain tile gracing the shower for an accent. The decorative glazed turquoise tile backsplash, tile border, and bottle niche adds a taste of marine green to the room, while marble-looking porcelain tile makes guests feel they are staying in a 5-star hotel. Polished nickel Kohler plumbing fixtures were chosen to add a touch of sophistication. This renovated guest bath is comfortable and elegant, and Anne and Mike’s house guests may never want to leave! “The end result was updated and restyled bathrooms that the client will enjoy and increase the value of their home,” Designer Michelle said. The children’s hall bath had its own set of challenges. The current placement of the sink was not conducive to the best use of the existing space, nor did it allow for any visual interest, something Advance’s designers always work to achieve even within the tight confines of a small bath. Advance removed the linen closet and used the gain in wall space to create a dramatic focal point on the vanity wall. They also took additional space that wasn’t being used for new Storm Gray Dura Supreme tall built-in linen cabinets, creating functional storage space that the former bath lacked. A customized glass splash panel was created for the bath, and the high ceilings with skylights were accented with a custom-made track lighting fixture featuring industrial pipe and cage materials. Authentic cement encaustic tile was used wall to wall surrounding the vanity to create a dramatic and interesting back drop for the new elegant and stately furniture-like double sink wall. Hand-made encaustic tile originated in Western Europe beginning in the 1850’s and reminded Mike and Anne of tile they had seen and loved from their travels overseas. Today, encaustic tile has made a re-appearance in today’s modern bath design with its wide array of appealing patterns and artistic use of color. Oil rubbed bronze Kohler fixtures echo the black accents in the beautiful tile pattern and reflect the matte black of the unique lighting detail. Easy to maintain Blanca Arabescato Quartz countertops add practicality and natural beauty and compliments the warm wood porcelain tile floors. This handsome bath has generated praise from friends and family even before it’s complete unveiling as photos of the space leaked out on social media! It’s not only completely functional to use, but especially pretty to look at. “Advance Design Studio did a terrific job for us. We really appreciated how easy it was to work with them on a complex project of the complete remodeling of two bathrooms. They very capably handled all the details from design, to project management, to construction. It is a great group of people to work with and we would welcome the opportunity to work with them again anytime,” Mike said.

Despite the challenge of a limited lot size, property setbacks, and strict lot coverage requirements, LandStudio360 designed a space for this new Baker Ranch home that complied with the HOA Design Guidelines yet pushed the design to the limits which satisfied the homeowners' desires. The custom shaped contemporary pool and spa fit set the tone of the yard as the primary view feature from inside the home. The expansive sideyard provided opportunity to expand the living space to the outdoors with the addition of a covered great room warm enough to spend winter evenings snuggled up by the fire or hosting large family gatherings. This yard has become the hangout spot for all friends and family.

Mike and Anne of Barrington Hills desperately needed to update and renovate both their kid’s hall bath and guest bath, and in their 1980’s home each project presented a different set of unique challenges to overcome. When they set out to identify the right remodeling company to partner with, it was important to find a company that could help them to visualize design solutions for the bath renovations. When they came across Advance Design Studio’s website, they were immediately drawn to the solution-oriented remodeling process and the family friendly company. They say they chose Advance Design because of the integrated approach of “Common Sense Remodeling”, making the design, project management and construction all happen in one place. When they met with Project Designer Michelle Lecinski, they knew they chose the right company. “Michelle’s excellent work on the initial designs made it easy to proceed with Advance Design Studio,” Mike said. Like most homeowners anticipating a big renovation project, they had some healthy fears; with two bathrooms being remodeled at the same time they worried about timeframes and staying within budget. With the help of Michelle, and the “Common Sense” guidelines, they were confident that Advance Design would stay true, orchestrating all the moving parts to stay within both the estimated timeline and budget. The guest bath offered the biggest design challenge. A dormer obstruction made the already cramped shower awkward to access. Mike and Anne also wanted the shower size to be expanded, making it more accommodating. Working with Advance’s construction expert DJ Yurik, Michelle relocated the shower concealing the original dormer and creating a larger, more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing guest shower. The unsightly and not at all user-friendly closet was removed and replaced with elegant White Maple Dura Supreme cabinetry with much improved function featuring dual tall linen cabinets, a special makeup area and two sinks, providing a dual vanity which was extremely important for better guest use. The Fossil Brown quartz countertop is in pleasing contrast to the white cabinetry, and coordinates nicely with the mocha porcelain tile gracing the shower for an accent. The decorative glazed turquoise tile backsplash, tile border, and bottle niche adds a taste of marine green to the room, while marble-looking porcelain tile makes guests feel they are staying in a 5-star hotel. Polished nickel Kohler plumbing fixtures were chosen to add a touch of sophistication. This renovated guest bath is comfortable and elegant, and Anne and Mike’s house guests may never want to leave! “The end result was updated and restyled bathrooms that the client will enjoy and increase the value of their home,” Designer Michelle said. The children’s hall bath had its own set of challenges. The current placement of the sink was not conducive to the best use of the existing space, nor did it allow for any visual interest, something Advance’s designers always work to achieve even within the tight confines of a small bath. Advance removed the linen closet and used the gain in wall space to create a dramatic focal point on the vanity wall. They also took additional space that wasn’t being used for new Storm Gray Dura Supreme tall built-in linen cabinets, creating functional storage space that the former bath lacked. A customized glass splash panel was created for the bath, and the high ceilings with skylights were accented with a custom-made track lighting fixture featuring industrial pipe and cage materials. Authentic cement encaustic tile was used wall to wall surrounding the vanity to create a dramatic and interesting back drop for the new elegant and stately furniture-like double sink wall. Hand-made encaustic tile originated in Western Europe beginning in the 1850’s and reminded Mike and Anne of tile they had seen and loved from their travels overseas. Today, encaustic tile has made a re-appearance in today’s modern bath design with its wide array of appealing patterns and artistic use of color. Oil rubbed bronze Kohler fixtures echo the black accents in the beautiful tile pattern and reflect the matte black of the unique lighting detail. Easy to maintain Blanca Arabescato Quartz countertops add practicality and natural beauty and compliments the warm wood porcelain tile floors. This handsome bath has generated praise from friends and family even before it’s complete unveiling as photos of the space leaked out on social media! It’s not only completely functional to use, but especially pretty to look at. “Advance Design Studio did a terrific job for us. We really appreciated how easy it was to work with them on a complex project of the complete remodeling of two bathrooms. They very capably handled all the details from design, to project management, to construction. It is a great group of people to work with and we would welcome the opportunity to work with them again anytime,” Mike said.

This L-Shaped Kitchen features a center island with a flush snackbar. Wood accents in the Dining area contrast with more modern elements in the Kitchen (brass hardware, stainless steel appliances, glass tile backsplash).

ceramic tile shower surround and floor, glass and ceramic tile accent stripe, recessed niches, oiled bronze fixtures, weight bearing grab bars, granite sink-top

In keeping with ADA compliance guidelines, we designed reduced-height cabinetry into this bathroom renovation with a deep 9″ high toe kick. We also created a zero clearance threshold shower. A wheelchair radius of 78 inches allowed space for ease of movement between essential features in the bathroom, to include the sink, toilet, shower, and soaking tub. The tile was also intentionally chosen for the bathroom for its aesthetics, wearability, and easy-to-clean properties.

The client wanted to update a kitchen originally renovated in the 1970s to better reflect the home’s historical character. The layout presented a few constraints: limited space for cabinetry, fixed window and door placements, and the need to maintain the exterior appearance due to Heritage Hill Historical Society guidelines. Additionally, the homeowners had some original cabinetry they wished to preserve or reuse, which added another layer of complexity. After exploring several layout options, we ultimately arrived at a design that balanced both functionality and historical integrity. Finishes and Flooring: Once the layout was finalized, we moved on to finish selections. The biggest challenge here was the flooring. While the client initially preferred a large-format tile, the age of the home and previous additions had left the floor uneven and unsuitable for such materials. Thankfully, the contractor was able to level the floor, making tile installation possible. Interestingly, the client had originally chosen a different tile, but due to long lead times, she had to make a last-minute change—and in doing so, discovered the stunning flooring you see in the photos. A happy accident that truly elevated the space! It was a pleasure working on this beautiful historic home—and even more so with such wonderful homeowners.

Fisher Heck worked closely with the Texas Historical Commission to ensure that the preservation treatment of José Antonio Navarro's 1850's home and the addition of a new restroom facilities building would be in keeping with national preservation guidelines. New restroom and storage facilities were carefully integrated into the historic grounds. As a result of the re-organization of the site, a larger central courtyard was formed and the relationship between new and existing buildings was enhanced. Today, the Casa Navarro State Historic Site proudly educates visitors on José Antonio Navarro's life and role in Texas history. Photos by Dror Baldinger.

Jeff Herr Photography
Inspiration for a craftsman two-story exterior home remodel in Atlanta

Located directly across from the Statehouse, this magnificent 6,350 square foot townhome restoration perfectly illustrates Haycon’s mastery in high end construction. Working closely with the design team over the course of a year and a half renovation project, 75 Hancock was stripped to the shell and completely transformed. The end result is a remarkable single family home which boasts incredible historic architectural detail while providing a luxurious space including the highest level of finishes, high-end appliances, and the addition of a residential elevator. Haycon appreciates the special attention to stringent preservation guidelines required when working in a historic district such as Beacon Hill. We also recognize the importance of proactive planning and communication with neighbors and neighborhood organizations such as the Beacon Hill Civic Association.

When designing this kitchen update and addition, Phase One had to keep function and style top of mind, all the time. The homeowners are masters in the kitchen and also wanted to highlight the great outdoors and the future location of their pool, so adding window banks were paramount, especially over the sink counter. The bathrooms renovations were hardly a second thought to the kitchen; one focuses on a large shower while the other, a stately bathtub, complete with frosted glass windows Stylistic details such as a bright red sliding door, and a hand selected fireplace mantle from the mountains were key indicators of the homeowners trend guidelines. Storage was also very important to the client and the home is now outfitted with 12.

We designed and built a handicap accessible bathroom that looked like it belonged in a traditional home environment. We worked closely with the homeowners, including a Korean War veteran, to learn what their needs were and seamlessly applied those needs to the rules and guidelines of the American Disabilities Act to successfully exceed their expectations. Working with The Veterans Administration gives us an opportunity to use our talents and abilities to give back to those who gave so much for the freedoms we take for granted every day. Please remember to thank the vets you may encounter in your daily ventures and travels for their service.