We were thrilled to partner with our clients in updating and renovating the entire main floor of their inviting Silver Spring home. Tucked away in one of the area’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods this once ultra-traditional-style home is now the ideal blend of past and present. Knowing that we were not only bringing their space current but also creating a tailored in-law suite for their mother’s upcoming stay — we got right to work on our mission of removing all obstacles to this family’s vision. This comprehensive project includes a larger, more functional kitchen plus Great Room addition; in-law suite with bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette and living space; family room; and screened in porch / deck combination ideal for grilling, entertaining and enjoying the outdoors. The expansive and open-layout-kitchen features Dura Supreme Shaker Cabinetry painted white and paired with glistening quartz counters. The space continues on and seamlessly opens up into the breezy Great Room and dining area. The newly equipped Mini-Split HVAC System provides independent temperature control and the elegant Universal Design In-Law Bathroom ensures both safety and usability. Hardwood flooring was installed and the existing flooring throughout was refinished to match — giving way to the smooth and continuous feel throughout the entire main level. We are proud to have created and delivered this transitional redesign and remodel all while keeping a small footprint for the in-law suite and not losing any of the original space.

We were thrilled to partner with our clients in updating and renovating the entire main floor of their inviting Silver Spring home. Tucked away in one of the area’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods this once ultra-traditional-style home is now the ideal blend of past and present. Knowing that we were not only bringing their space current but also creating a tailored in-law suite for their mother’s upcoming stay — we got right to work on our mission of removing all obstacles to this family’s vision. This comprehensive project includes a larger, more functional kitchen plus Great Room addition; in-law suite with bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette and living space; family room; and screened in porch / deck combination ideal for grilling, entertaining and enjoying the outdoors. The expansive and open-layout-kitchen features Dura Supreme Shaker Cabinetry painted white and paired with glistening quartz counters. The space continues on and seamlessly opens up into the breezy Great Room and dining area. The newly equipped Mini-Split HVAC System provides independent temperature control and the elegant Universal Design In-Law Bathroom ensures both safety and usability. Hardwood flooring was installed and the existing flooring throughout was refinished to match — giving way to the smooth and continuous feel throughout the entire main level. We are proud to have created and delivered this transitional redesign and remodel all while keeping a small footprint for the in-law suite and not losing any of the original space.

Captivated by South Haven’s natural charm and waterfront beauty, this storybook, waterfront abode is exceptionally true to its lakefront character. Featuring over 3,600 square feet with five bedroom and three-and-a-half baths, the careful design of this open and charming layout paired with grand views from nearly every room, capture all the warmth and playfulness of lakefront living. • A beach friendly fiber cement siding in a cheerful shade of blue blends seamlessly with the water backdrop, while contrasting white trim and darker blue window clad lend definition to the exterior. • An impressive kitchen with stunning Ann Sachs tile backsplash, quartz countertops, richly stained bistro table and Viking Appliances overlook the generous, but clearly defined, living and dining rooms. • Extensive built-ins with extra storage and workspace, such as a distinctive dining serving piece featuring quartz stone and a lake reflecting mirror, maximize space and make entertaining a breeze. • Playful design elements like Thibaut wallpaper, braided hemp cabinet insets and white-washed European white oak floors complement the home’s coastal flair with nautical décor and warm hues. • Fine finishes and rich trim details including wainscot, various painted ceilings, louvered doors on cabinetry, and fireplace surround with kitchen coordinating quartz stone, show off the intricate design gestures. • Skillfully designed upstairs presents a restful master retreat with private balcony, two guest bedrooms, convenient laundry featuring sleek retractable doors and space maximizing built in bunk beds with ultra-clever steps that provide storage. • The lower level’s extra guest quarters, additional laundry, full beach bath with top-to-bottom tiled shower, diligent kitchenette, beach-friendly stained concrete floors, outdoor shower that keeps sand at bay, and direct access to the sugary sands of Lake Michigan. Photography by Chuck Heiney

Today I present you a new project - a cozy and stylish kitchen-living room, created for a couple who loves electronic music and parties in their home. The clients' dream was a special table space with a DJ console and powerful acoustics and I made their dreams come true. Now the parties in their home will be unforgettable! ?? The main character of this apartment is the light beige walls and exquisite finishing panels made of MDF with walnut veneer. This material adds warmth and elegance to the interior. The cabinet furniture also uses elements with walnut veneer, creating a harmonious combination of textures and shades. The main accent is the blue color, which gives the interior a marine harmony. The kitchen is completely made of "Fenix" material of "blu shaba" color, and in the living room you can cozy up on the blue sofa, which will accommodate all the guests. ?? A dark wood parquet is chosen for the floor, which gives the interior additional depth and warmth. In creating this interior I tried to reflect not only the unique style of my clients but also their common vision of coziness and comfort. I am sure that every corner of this kitchen-living room will remind them of how important it is to make their home their own and unique.

Challenge This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use. The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica. Solution To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included: Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1). It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions. The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space. Result All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks. Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard. The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.

This Escondido area homeowner came to Specialty Home Improvement looking to build a living space for an aging relative. ADUs, also often known as “granny flats” or “in-law suites” are perfect for aging-in-place, short or long-term rentals, or for extra space on your property to increase the value of your home. The Challenge: Design an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and living space for an elderly relative on a fixed budget. The space is needed to provide as much complete independence and privacy for the relative as possible. The ADU also needed to fit a specific area in the backyard that did not impede on the existing outdoor entertainment area or pool. Since the area of the build is located in a warmer area of San Diego’s North County, summertime power consumption and indoor temperature were a concern. The Solution: For budget purposes, the shape of the unit was kept as a basic rectangle, since odd shapes and angles present challenges and additional costs to engineer and build. Since there was the possibility of guests or perhaps more than one person at a time using the ADU, the bathroom was given an independent entry. A closet was placed between the bathroom and the bedroom to help provide a sound buffer. Floors were designed as polished concrete to help maintain a cooler ambient temperature during the summer months. Light colors on the cabinets, walls, and ceilings along with dual paned vinyl windows provide ample light, temperature control, and ventilation.

This charming modern farmhouse design features a simple board-and-batten facade and a welcoming front porch. Continuing inside, the foyer presents an open floor plan with the great room and island kitchen sharing a vaulted ceiling with a trio of skylights. The single dining space enjoys a tray ceiling and a front facing window while a rear porch and patio extend living outdoors. Located at the rear of the home, the two-car garage leads into a mudroom and a nearby pantry. The utility room is highly functional with side porch access, a laundry sink, and a sun tunnel to bring in natural light. Efficient and cozy, the master suite offers a tray ceiling, a cleverly designed bathroom with a walk-in shower and dual vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. On the opposite side of the floor plan, two additional bedrooms share a full bathroom.

Today I present you a new project - a cozy and stylish kitchen-living room, created for a couple who loves electronic music and parties in their home. The clients' dream was a special table space with a DJ console and powerful acoustics and I made their dreams come true. Now the parties in their home will be unforgettable! ?? The main character of this apartment is the light beige walls and exquisite finishing panels made of MDF with walnut veneer. This material adds warmth and elegance to the interior. The cabinet furniture also uses elements with walnut veneer, creating a harmonious combination of textures and shades. The main accent is the blue color, which gives the interior a marine harmony. The kitchen is completely made of "Fenix" material of "blu shaba" color, and in the living room you can cozy up on the blue sofa, which will accommodate all the guests. ?? A dark wood parquet is chosen for the floor, which gives the interior additional depth and warmth. In creating this interior I tried to reflect not only the unique style of my clients but also their common vision of coziness and comfort. I am sure that every corner of this kitchen-living room will remind them of how important it is to make their home their own and unique.

This Escondido area homeowner came to Specialty Home Improvement looking to build a living space for an aging relative. ADUs, also often known as “granny flats” or “in-law suites” are perfect for aging-in-place, short or long-term rentals, or for extra space on your property to increase the value of your home. The Challenge: Design an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and living space for an elderly relative on a fixed budget. The space is needed to provide as much complete independence and privacy for the relative as possible. The ADU also needed to fit a specific area in the backyard that did not impede on the existing outdoor entertainment area or pool. Since the area of the build is located in a warmer area of San Diego’s North County, summertime power consumption and indoor temperature were a concern. The Solution: For budget purposes, the shape of the unit was kept as a basic rectangle, since odd shapes and angles present challenges and additional costs to engineer and build. Since there was the possibility of guests or perhaps more than one person at a time using the ADU, the bathroom was given an independent entry. A closet was placed between the bathroom and the bedroom to help provide a sound buffer. Floors were designed as polished concrete to help maintain a cooler ambient temperature during the summer months. Light colors on the cabinets, walls, and ceilings along with dual paned vinyl windows provide ample light, temperature control, and ventilation.

Inspired by the surrounding landscape, the Craftsman/Prairie style is one of the few truly American architectural styles. It was developed around the turn of the century by a group of Midwestern architects and continues to be among the most comfortable of all American-designed architecture more than a century later, one of the main reasons it continues to attract architects and homeowners today. Oxbridge builds on that solid reputation, drawing from Craftsman/Prairie and classic Farmhouse styles. Its handsome Shingle-clad exterior includes interesting pitched rooflines, alternating rows of cedar shake siding, stone accents in the foundation and chimney and distinctive decorative brackets. Repeating triple windows add interest to the exterior while keeping interior spaces open and bright. Inside, the floor plan is equally impressive. Columns on the porch and a custom entry door with sidelights and decorative glass leads into a spacious 2,900-square-foot main floor, including a 19 by 24-foot living room with a period-inspired built-ins and a natural fireplace. While inspired by the past, the home lives for the present, with open rooms and plenty of storage throughout. Also included is a 27-foot-wide family-style kitchen with a large island and eat-in dining and a nearby dining room with a beadboard ceiling that leads out onto a relaxing 240-square-foot screen porch that takes full advantage of the nearby outdoors and a private 16 by 20-foot master suite with a sloped ceiling and relaxing personal sitting area. The first floor also includes a large walk-in closet, a home management area and pantry to help you stay organized and a first-floor laundry area. Upstairs, another 1,500 square feet awaits, with a built-ins and a window seat at the top of the stairs that nod to the home’s historic inspiration. Opt for three family bedrooms or use one of the three as a yoga room; the upper level also includes attic access, which offers another 500 square feet, perfect for crafts or a playroom. More space awaits in the lower level, where another 1,500 square feet (and an additional 1,000) include a recreation/family room with nine-foot ceilings, a wine cellar and home office. Photographer: Jeff Garland

This Escondido area homeowner came to Specialty Home Improvement looking to build a living space for an aging relative. ADUs, also often known as “granny flats” or “in-law suites” are perfect for aging-in-place, short or long-term rentals, or for extra space on your property to increase the value of your home. The Challenge: Design an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and living space for an elderly relative on a fixed budget. The space is needed to provide as much complete independence and privacy for the relative as possible. The ADU also needed to fit a specific area in the backyard that did not impede on the existing outdoor entertainment area or pool. Since the area of the build is located in a warmer area of San Diego’s North County, summertime power consumption and indoor temperature were a concern. The Solution: For budget purposes, the shape of the unit was kept as a basic rectangle, since odd shapes and angles present challenges and additional costs to engineer and build. Since there was the possibility of guests or perhaps more than one person at a time using the ADU, the bathroom was given an independent entry. A closet was placed between the bathroom and the bedroom to help provide a sound buffer. Floors were designed as polished concrete to help maintain a cooler ambient temperature during the summer months. Light colors on the cabinets, walls, and ceilings along with dual paned vinyl windows provide ample light, temperature control, and ventilation.

This Escondido area homeowner came to Specialty Home Improvement looking to build a living space for an aging relative. ADUs, also often known as “granny flats” or “in-law suites” are perfect for aging-in-place, short or long-term rentals, or for extra space on your property to increase the value of your home. The Challenge: Design an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and living space for an elderly relative on a fixed budget. The space is needed to provide as much complete independence and privacy for the relative as possible. The ADU also needed to fit a specific area in the backyard that did not impede on the existing outdoor entertainment area or pool. Since the area of the build is located in a warmer area of San Diego’s North County, summertime power consumption and indoor temperature were a concern. The Solution: For budget purposes, the shape of the unit was kept as a basic rectangle, since odd shapes and angles present challenges and additional costs to engineer and build. Since there was the possibility of guests or perhaps more than one person at a time using the ADU, the bathroom was given an independent entry. A closet was placed between the bathroom and the bedroom to help provide a sound buffer. Floors were designed as polished concrete to help maintain a cooler ambient temperature during the summer months. Light colors on the cabinets, walls, and ceilings along with dual paned vinyl windows provide ample light, temperature control, and ventilation.

The Aerius - Modern Craftsman in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Upon opening the 8ft tall door and entering the foyer an immediate display of light, color and energy is presented to us in the form of 13ft coffered ceilings, abundant natural lighting and an ornate glass chandelier. Beckoning across the hall an entrance to the Great Room is beset by the Master Suite, the Den, a central stairway to the Upper Level and a passageway to the 4-bay Garage and Guest Bedroom with attached bath. Advancement to the Great Room reveals massive, built-in vertical storage, a vast area for all manner of social interactions and a bountiful showcase of the forest scenery that allows the natural splendor of the outside in. The sleek corner-kitchen is composed with elevated countertops. These additional 4in create the perfect fit for our larger-than-life homeowner and make stooping and drooping a distant memory. The comfortable kitchen creates no spatial divide and easily transitions to the sun-drenched dining nook, complete with overhead coffered-beam ceiling. This trifecta of function, form and flow accommodates all shapes and sizes and allows any number of events to be hosted here. On the rare occasion more room is needed, the sliding glass doors can be opened allowing an out-pour of activity. Almost doubling the square-footage and extending the Great Room into the arboreous locale is sure to guarantee long nights out under the stars. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

ABOUT THE RENOVATION Very often, getting what you want is simply about timing. After years of owning her Upper West Side co-op in Lincoln Square and making various small renovations along the way, our client decided to go all-out and advance with her dream renovation after being eased into the significant decision by our full-service design-build approach, extensive pre-planning process, out of the box design strategy, and thorough estimate. The results of this stunning renovation speak for themselves. SPACIOUS CENTERPIECE KITCHEN With many condos in Manhattan, the kitchen is the home’s focal point. In this case, the client’s goal was to reinvigorate this critical space via a classic interior design style with modern and contemporary touches. Beyond introducing updated appliances and pendant lighting, we added immaculate natural stone countertops and backsplash, along with opaque Tribeca shaker cabinets throughout the space. TWO BATHROOMS, TWICE AS NICE When the opportunity to add a bathroom to your Manhattan condo presents itself, you take advantage. Part of our renovation of this USW condo included an additional bathroom, in addition to a total overhaul of the ensuite bathroom. For the main bath, we turned the dreary old space into a soft and elegant sanctuary that’s warming as the sunlight beaming in, thanks to the sleek nickel-finish fixtures and custom marble tile. In the newly-created guest bathroom, we delivered an upscale, timeless design incorporating gleaming subway tiles, bold brass fixtures, and exquisite deco hexagon flooring. PERMA-WFH OFFICE WITH CUSTOM MURPHY BED & STORAGE After being thrust into a permanent work from home schedule due to the pandemic, our client decided to incorporate more of a formal home office space into her guest bedroom - a space where she also required additional storage. The problem was she didn't want to give up the practicality of a spare bedroom. To maintain the added bedroom availability and also provide a proper office space, we created a custom Murphy bed and desk area with custom millwork for enhanced organization with a perfectly narrow personal desk area nestled to the left of the large built-in. ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS - We Incorporated Various Square/hexagon Features Throughout The Space, Per Client Preference - Laundry Relocation For Added Space And Preference

We began our design in this OKC kitchen by re-orientating the layout of the kitchen and all work zones. The homeowners wanted a larger island with space to prepare meals while capturing the impressive lake views to the rear of the home. We replaced the closed in Highbar with an open and expansive island showcasing a lowered eating area, perfect for breakfast and entertaining while meals are prepared. Our mitered door custom cabinets are presented with a sophisticated and up and coming color palette for those that are leaning away from basic white cabinets. To bring more warmth into the space, we stained the rift sawn oak in medium brown and finished with a soft glaze. We then contrast this with matte black interiors in the glass cabinets. The matte black is repeated on the venthood which has been accented with high gloss striping. The large pull-outs flanking the fridge provide plenty of storage, while the integrated backsplash shelf provides architectural interest with additional space for bottles and spices near the induction cooktop. The brushed gold hardware provides the perfect jewelry for the kitchen – now warm, inviting, and irresistible!

This Escondido area homeowner came to Specialty Home Improvement looking to build a living space for an aging relative. ADUs, also often known as “granny flats” or “in-law suites” are perfect for aging-in-place, short or long-term rentals, or for extra space on your property to increase the value of your home. The Challenge: Design an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and living space for an elderly relative on a fixed budget. The space is needed to provide as much complete independence and privacy for the relative as possible. The ADU also needed to fit a specific area in the backyard that did not impede on the existing outdoor entertainment area or pool. Since the area of the build is located in a warmer area of San Diego’s North County, summertime power consumption and indoor temperature were a concern. The Solution: For budget purposes, the shape of the unit was kept as a basic rectangle, since odd shapes and angles present challenges and additional costs to engineer and build. Since there was the possibility of guests or perhaps more than one person at a time using the ADU, the bathroom was given an independent entry. A closet was placed between the bathroom and the bedroom to help provide a sound buffer. Floors were designed as polished concrete to help maintain a cooler ambient temperature during the summer months. Light colors on the cabinets, walls, and ceilings along with dual paned vinyl windows provide ample light, temperature control, and ventilation.

When we first met these clients, they had a tiny closed-off kitchen and a big, expanding family. They hated that it was so small, tucked away, and blocked the gorgeous mountain views from inside the home. This family wanted a complete remodel to make their closed-off kitchen larger, open-concept, and high end. To achieve their vision, the JRP Design team removed interior walls and extended the exterior wall out into the existing deck and dining room; this would allow for the current kitchen to expand and create room for a large kitchen island, big enough to seat the entire family. Steel beams would also need to be added to support this square footage addition. Since the extension would eliminate the present deck outside, the outdoor space was reconfigured to include a new deck with designated areas to both dine and mingle near the pool. Large bi-fold doors allow for a seamless flow between the indoors and deck area when open and panoramic views of the mountains when shut. Crisp white cabinets and luxurious quartz countertops serve as the icing on the cake for this kitchen renovation to deliver the high-end finish our clients desired. Photographer: Andrew (Open House VC)

Today I present you a new project - a cozy and stylish kitchen-living room, created for a couple who loves electronic music and parties in their home. The clients' dream was a special table space with a DJ console and powerful acoustics and I made their dreams come true. Now the parties in their home will be unforgettable! ?? The main character of this apartment is the light beige walls and exquisite finishing panels made of MDF with walnut veneer. This material adds warmth and elegance to the interior. The cabinet furniture also uses elements with walnut veneer, creating a harmonious combination of textures and shades. The main accent is the blue color, which gives the interior a marine harmony. The kitchen is completely made of "Fenix" material of "blu shaba" color, and in the living room you can cozy up on the blue sofa, which will accommodate all the guests. ?? A dark wood parquet is chosen for the floor, which gives the interior additional depth and warmth. In creating this interior I tried to reflect not only the unique style of my clients but also their common vision of coziness and comfort. I am sure that every corner of this kitchen-living room will remind them of how important it is to make their home their own and unique.

Captivated by South Haven’s natural charm and waterfront beauty, this storybook, waterfront abode is exceptionally true to its lakefront character. Featuring over 3,600 square feet with five bedroom and three-and-a-half baths, the careful design of this open and charming layout paired with grand views from nearly every room, capture all the warmth and playfulness of lakefront living. • A beach friendly fiber cement siding in a cheerful shade of blue blends seamlessly with the water backdrop, while contrasting white trim and darker blue window clad lend definition to the exterior. • An impressive kitchen with stunning Ann Sachs tile backsplash, quartz countertops, richly stained bistro table and Viking Appliances overlook the generous, but clearly defined, living and dining rooms. • Extensive built-ins with extra storage and workspace, such as a distinctive dining serving piece featuring quartz stone and a lake reflecting mirror, maximize space and make entertaining a breeze. • Playful design elements like Thibaut wallpaper, braided hemp cabinet insets and white-washed European white oak floors complement the home’s coastal flair with nautical décor and warm hues. • Fine finishes and rich trim details including wainscot, various painted ceilings, louvered doors on cabinetry, and fireplace surround with kitchen coordinating quartz stone, show off the intricate design gestures. • Skillfully designed upstairs presents a restful master retreat with private balcony, two guest bedrooms, convenient laundry featuring sleek retractable doors and space maximizing built in bunk beds with ultra-clever steps that provide storage. • The lower level’s extra guest quarters, additional laundry, full beach bath with top-to-bottom tiled shower, diligent kitchenette, beach-friendly stained concrete floors, outdoor shower that keeps sand at bay, and direct access to the sugary sands of Lake Michigan. Photography by Ashley Avila