2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER A single family home in Oakton, VA built in late 80’ was occupied by family of four for 10 years. The owner wishes to expand the living space, finish the basement, add a sunroom/breakfast area addition, eliminate the deck and put in a screen porch. Also convert the laundry room to office/mudroom area. It took months of planning to get into the final design. We have implemented a plan that had a two story back addition (both basement level and first level). This required removing the cinder block wall of basement to add the seamless addition, and removing the entire first level back wall of kitchen to open up kitchen into sunroom. The major challenge was to re-route all duct work going to second level, add ducts for basement and first level to existing system. Then add a second HVAC system in attic for entire second level. Then change all load structure for tow story addition to side wall and new walls to have entire width opened up. The basement has gained a new bar area, a total new bathroom with shower and large vanities and all amenities, media area with gas fireplace and mantel surrounded with matching cherry bookcases and granite tops, recess lights, surround sound system, wood floor and steps, new sewer ejection system due to their difficult septic tank. The new French doors lead into back bricked patio The first floor gained this new 16’x20’ cathedral ceiling sunroom/breakfast addition surrounded with large arched windows and French slider leading into new screen porch. The kitchen lay-out gained three more feet in width. Also by removing partition wall between kitchen and existing family room. The first floor now has total open floor plan. The fireplace in existing family room was converted to gas and got marble surround and new mantel. All bulkhead and part of partition walls contained massive plumbing and electrical that needed to be relocated in order to implement the new kitchen layout. This design has much more appliances and a beautiful large furniture style island that is the focal point of this kitchen done in espresso color cherry cabinetry and contrasting light color exotic stove top lighted by two crystal chandeliers. The wrap around of cherry cabinetry in the kitchen with expended cabinetry into butler area and bookcases and bench in sunroom has given this couple lots to fill in. The entire first floor and leading stairs to second floor and part of the second floor was all covered with new 5” wide exotic Santos Mahogany wood floors and new railings. The powder room has been reconfigured to allow larger hallway and with new furniture style vanity this powder room even small than before but has better layout and space. The old Laundry room and has been converted to a 10’x15’ area of multipurpose space. On the left wall there are locker style cabinetry and bench. One the left wall built in and desk area with tones of storage space. The washer and dryer are install into a closet, away from site. A set of French doors were installed into the new back deck and screen porch. The large porcelain floors made the space look even larger and more utilitarian. Use of cherry cabinetry on deck and bookcase with recess lighting scaled up look of the space. The new kitchen, family room and sun room with the rich cherry cabinetry and darker granite top, tumbled marble backsplash and wide board mahogany floors, upper scale stainless steel appliances and furniture style distressed look darker wood Island and light granite have made this project a breathtaking one. The added side screen porch done with Trex decking and cathedral ceiling covered in beaded panel and corner gas fireplace all around covered with Ledgestone has given this family a place to retire in for all those autumn afternoons and much more. The major overhaul of this home from replacement of all existing doors and windows, flooring, crown molding and trim, stairs, entire first floor reface, new siding , new roofing, new electrical, new HVAC, entire new basement, bathroom, mud room, screen porch and lots more makes these owner proud to stay in this home for years to come.

Our team of Austin architects transformed a 1950s home into a mid-century modern retreat for this renovation and addition project. The retired couple who owns the house came to us seeking a design that would bring in natural light and accommodate their many hobbies while offering a modern and streamlined design. The original structure featured an awkward floor plan of choppy spaces divided by various step-downs and a central living area that felt dark and closed off from the outside. Our main goal was to bring in natural light and take advantage of the property’s fantastic backyard views of a peaceful creek. We raised interior floors to the same level, eliminating sunken rooms and step-downs to allow for a more open, free-flowing floor plan. To increase natural light, we changed the traditional hip roofline to a more modern single slope with clerestory windows that take advantage of treetop views. Additionally, we added all new windows strategically positioned to frame views of the backyard. A new open-concept kitchen and living area occupy the central home where previously underutilized rooms once sat. The kitchen features an oversized island, quartzite counters, and upper glass cabinets that mirror the clerestory windows of the room. Large sliding doors spill out to a new covered and raised deck that overlooks Shoal Creek and new backyard amenities, like a bocce ball court and paved walkways. Finally, we finished the home's exterior with durable and low-maintenance cement plank siding and a metal roof in a palette of neutral grays and whites. A bright red door creates a warm welcome to this newly renovated Austin home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

Reclaimed wormy chestnut steals the show in this kitchen remodel. The hand-planed, hand-pegged cabinetry and pantry door provide a warm, authentic backdrop. Our clients, a retired couple who enjoy hosting family gatherings with their grandchildren, longed for a space that would welcome a crowd. They desired an open plan to incorporate their bright sunroom that serves as their family room. The light from the sun room would change the existing dark kitchen dramatically. It was important to the couple that the kitchen work zones be tucked away for uninterrupted meal prep and clean up. Their wish list also included the addition of a wet bar area for more storage, home office needs, and entertaining. The white, transitional wet bar cabinetry compliments the chocolate brown chestnut beautifully. The homeowners have a flair for color and were inspired by pieces they collected in their travels leading them to choose red as an accent color along with Tuscan style seating for finishing touches. Matt Villano Photography

The homeowner is a retired professional and a passionate home chef who desired to have the finest in luxury appliances. They interviewed several large design build firms that just didnt listen to them. After approaching our company they discovered we were a perfect fit as we listened to their specific remodeling needs and were not concerned about making the sale. This couple entertains large crowds of people and their kitchen was tiny and outdated for their needs. We opened up the wall between the kitchen and dining room, removed an awkward drop ceiling, added square footage to the kitchen and dining room spaces. Finally adding exterior sliding door with a La Cantina Bi-Fold door. We moved and installed a new sink window at the wall between the kitchen and dining room. The new configuration allowed for more working area as well as much needed additional kitchen storage. An integrated flush Subzero Refrigerator and Freezer are the perfect for this home owners entertaining needs. The island features a Miele Range with and island sink, the second sink is a necessity for this Chef. The details are not overlooked in the cabinetry with the beveled door by Ovation Cabinetry available exclusively at Signature Designs Kitchen Bath in San Diego.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

This one-acre property now features a trio of homes on three lots where previously there was only a single home on one lot. Surrounded by other single family homes in a neighborhood where vacant parcels are virtually unheard of, this project created the rare opportunity of constructing not one, but two new homes. The owners purchased the property as a retirement investment with the goal of relocating from the East Coast to live in one of the new homes and sell the other two. The original home - designed by the distinguished architectural firm of Edwards & Plunkett in the 1930's - underwent a complete remodel both inside and out. While respecting the original architecture, this 2,089 sq. ft., two bedroom, two bath home features new interior and exterior finishes, reclaimed wood ceilings, custom light fixtures, stained glass windows, and a new three-car garage. The two new homes on the lot reflect the style of the original home, only grander. Neighborhood design standards required Spanish Colonial details – classic red tile roofs and stucco exteriors. Both new three-bedroom homes with additional study were designed with aging in place in mind and equipped with elevator systems, fireplaces, balconies, and other custom amenities including open beam ceilings, hand-painted tiles, and dark hardwood floors. Photographer: Santa Barbara Real Estate Photography

Constructed in two phases, this renovation, with a few small additions, touched nearly every room in this late ‘50’s ranch house. The owners raised their family within the original walls and love the house’s location, which is not far from town and also borders conservation land. But they didn’t love how chopped up the house was and the lack of exposure to natural daylight and views of the lush rear woods. Plus, they were ready to de-clutter for a more stream-lined look. As a result, KHS collaborated with them to create a quiet, clean design to support the lifestyle they aspire to in retirement. To transform the original ranch house, KHS proposed several significant changes that would make way for a number of related improvements. Proposed changes included the removal of the attached enclosed breezeway (which had included a stair to the basement living space) and the two-car garage it partially wrapped, which had blocked vital eastern daylight from accessing the interior. Together the breezeway and garage had also contributed to a long, flush front façade. In its stead, KHS proposed a new two-car carport, attached storage shed, and exterior basement stair in a new location. The carport is bumped closer to the street to relieve the flush front facade and to allow access behind it to eastern daylight in a relocated rear kitchen. KHS also proposed a new, single, more prominent front entry, closer to the driveway to replace the former secondary entrance into the dark breezeway and a more formal main entrance that had been located much farther down the facade and curiously bordered the bedroom wing. Inside, low ceilings and soffits in the primary family common areas were removed to create a cathedral ceiling (with rod ties) over a reconfigured semi-open living, dining, and kitchen space. A new gas fireplace serving the relocated dining area -- defined by a new built-in banquette in a new bay window -- was designed to back up on the existing wood-burning fireplace that continues to serve the living area. A shared full bath, serving two guest bedrooms on the main level, was reconfigured, and additional square footage was captured for a reconfigured master bathroom off the existing master bedroom. A new whole-house color palette, including new finishes and new cabinetry, complete the transformation. Today, the owners enjoy a fresh and airy re-imagining of their familiar ranch house. Photos by Katie Hutchison

This one-acre property now features a trio of homes on three lots where previously there was only a single home on one lot. Surrounded by other single family homes in a neighborhood where vacant parcels are virtually unheard of, this project created the rare opportunity of constructing not one, but two new homes. The owners purchased the property as a retirement investment with the goal of relocating from the East Coast to live in one of the new homes and sell the other two. The original home - designed by the distinguished architectural firm of Edwards & Plunkett in the 1930's - underwent a complete remodel both inside and out. While respecting the original architecture, this 2,089 sq. ft., two bedroom, two bath home features new interior and exterior finishes, reclaimed wood ceilings, custom light fixtures, stained glass windows, and a new three-car garage. The two new homes on the lot reflect the style of the original home, only grander. Neighborhood design standards required Spanish Colonial details – classic red tile roofs and stucco exteriors. Both new three-bedroom homes with additional study were designed with aging in place in mind and equipped with elevator systems, fireplaces, balconies, and other custom amenities including open beam ceilings, hand-painted tiles, and dark hardwood floors. Photographer: Santa Barbara Real Estate Photography

The homeowner is a retired professional and a passionate home chef who desired to have the finest in luxury appliances. They interviewed several large design build firms that just didnt listen to them. After approaching our company they discovered we were a perfect fit as we listened to their specific remodeling needs and were not concerned about making the sale. This couple entertains large crowds of people and their kitchen was tiny and outdated for their needs. We opened up the wall between the kitchen and dining room, removed an awkward drop ceiling, added square footage to the kitchen and dining room spaces. Finally adding exterior sliding door with a La Cantina Bi-Fold door. We moved and installed a new sink window at the wall between the kitchen and dining room. The new configuration allowed for more working area as well as much needed additional kitchen storage. An integrated flush Subzero Refrigerator and Freezer are the perfect for this home owners entertaining needs. The island features a Miele Range with and island sink, the second sink is a necessity for this Chef. The details are not overlooked in the cabinetry with the beveled door by Ovation Cabinetry available exclusively at Signature Designs Kitchen Bath in San Diego.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

Shingle Style Exterior on a custom coastal home on Cape Cod by Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects Builders. Scope Of Work: Architecture, Construction / Living Space: 4,573ft² / Photography: Brian Vanden Brink

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

Open concept kitchen - mid-sized contemporary l-shaped porcelain tile open concept kitchen idea in Seattle with a double-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and black countertops

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

Reclaimed wormy chestnut steals the show in this kitchen remodel. The hand-planed, hand-pegged cabinetry and pantry door provide a warm, authentic backdrop. Our clients, a retired couple who enjoy hosting family gatherings with their grandchildren, longed for a space that would welcome a crowd. They desired an open plan to incorporate their bright sunroom that serves as their family room. The light from the sun room would change the existing dark kitchen dramatically. It was important to the couple that the kitchen work zones be tucked away for uninterrupted meal prep and clean up. Their wish list also included the addition of a wet bar area for more storage, home office needs, and entertaining. The white, transitional wet bar cabinetry compliments the chocolate brown chestnut beautifully. The homeowners have a flair for color and were inspired by pieces they collected in their travels leading them to choose red as an accent color along with Tuscan style seating for finishing touches. Matt Villano Photography

After recently retiring and spending more time at home, Mercer Island resident, Kathy, was ready to say goodbye to her home’s country kitchen and outdated rooms of 15 years. She was ready to enjoy a reinvigorated kitchen update! We replaced the island with a custom-built island to match the perimeter cabinets’ style and we added a new beverage center near the kitchen’s entryway. The new, stunning, maple countertop on the island immediately grabs your attention and the new, quartz countertop and a subway tile backsplash of the surrounding cabinets provides the perfect complement. In addition, there is now herringbone accent tiling located over the range and new plumbing with stainless steel sinks and matching faucets nearby. After some reconfiguration, the existing cabinets received a fresh coat of paint and new hardware to complete the kitchen upgrade.