Revamping the pantry is a transformative project that elevates both form and function in the kitchen space. Introducing adjustable shelving and pull-out trays optimizes storage, making it easier to access and organize a variety of items. Customized storage solutions for spices, canned goods, and dry ingredients enhance efficiency and reduce clutter. Consideration of lighting, such as LED strips or motion-sensor lights, improves visibility and adds a modern touch. A fresh coat of paint or stylish wallpaper can breathe new life into the pantry, contributing to an overall aesthetic upgrade. Additionally, investing in a smart organization system, such as labeled bins or baskets, ensures everything has a designated place. Redoing the pantry is not just about practicality; it's an opportunity to create a well-organized, visually appealing space that enhances the overall kitchen experience.

2010 NATIONAL NARI REGIONAL AWARD WINNER Project Scope The owners of this 7,000 square foot colonial in Oakton, Virginia, were seeking a multi-level Mediterranean-style indoor/outdoor living space off the back of their home. They turned to Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes for a design solution that would include a stone patio, a second-story deck, a screened-in porch and linking staircases. While the structure was designed primarily for family dining and entertaining, it also had to accommodate periodic social gatherings of one hundred guests or more. To meet these needs, the project would include a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, several serving counters with permanent refrigeration, and well-delineated socializing and dining zones. The existing home’s setting offered several impressive assets the new outdoor living area was designed to exploit. The sprawling acreage features old stand trees, wooded paths and a private lake. Beautifully landscaped, it unfolds as an idyllic panorama that naturally draws people to the outdoors. Challenges Since the rear elevation was situated on a slope that drops away from the house, the Michael Nash team had to raise the grade two feet within in a 2,000 square foot area extending out from the back of the house. Infrastructure plans also called for a sophisticated drainage system that had to accommodate a whole series of water “runoff” considerations to be integrated into the decking itself. Excavation included constructing retaining walls to bolster the elevated grade—which also had to support a concrete slab, the primary foundation for the entire complex. Solutions The ground level decking consists of a 2,000 square foot flagstone patio level with the home’s lower level doors. There is a decorative water fountain mid-patio—an ornate collectible acquired in Florida. Food preparation is concentrated within a specially designed semi-circular wall that creates an “outdoor kitchen” equipped with a 60” Viking barbecue grill, a prep sink, a warming drawer, refrigerator and appropriate storage. There is a granite surfaced dining counter with seating for eight. Wrought iron railing and approximately 20 decorative columns (some encasing steel vertical supports) are incorporated into the design scheme. Many of the columns house accent lights. The top level—supported by horizontal steel beams– is a 2,500 square foot deck constructed entirely of Trex decking. The open air decking is, again, directly accessible from rooms on the second level of the house including the kitchen, sunroom and family room. The platform’s most prominent feature is a U-shaped “kitchenette” with cedar shake shingle roofing. Like its counterpart one level below, the facility is equipped with grill, refrigerator and stainless steel cabinetry. One portion of the deck has been allocated for a 16’ x 16’ octagonal screened-in porch crowned by a pair of 2’ x 4’ skylights. The porch can be accessed from the home’s conservatory via a set of French doors. With its mosaic tile flooring, stained cedar panel ceiling and honed granite counters, the interior is elegant and calming. Hand-painted stenciling and a wall-mounted water feature provide distinctive detailing. Finally, the design introduced elements to highlight and reinforce an awareness of the lovely bucolic setting. Fountains and water features combined with textured surfaces and mosaic tiling and backsplashes to present a villa-like ambiance well-suited to the Virginia countryside.

The concept was for the house to appear more traditional in form on the street, with its wrap around farmer's porch and second floor iconic gable shape. Then the southern facade towards the backyard would become more open and connected to the natural surroundings to introduce future additions such as a sunroom, large outdoor deck and custom pool. Photography by Design Imaging Studios

Having relocated from Boston, my clients wanted the house to have a New England feel to it with antiques and vintage pieces mixed in alongside new upholstery and textiles. They loved the traditional color palette of cobalt blues and white seen in New England coastal cottages – and also in her collection of Chinoiserie porcelain – and I introduced various shades of greens throughout to expand the palette beyond two colors. In addition, the blue linen chosen for the re-upholstery of the clients existing sofa helped create a cohesive division space between living room and kitchen, making blue a predominant color in the open space. ____ Photography by Ebony Ellis for Charleston Home + Design Magazine

This kitchen renovation project in Bloomfield Hills was completed in 2014. A 70’s renovated kitchen with a Spanish feel was transformed into a contemporary design with a mid century vibe. Floor to ceiling flat cut walnut wall panels and white Italian, high gloss lacquer cabinets provide the perfect back drop to showcase the bright colored chairs around the classic marble pedestal table. The oversized, contemporary door wall further aids in simplifying the space and allowing the chairs and backsplash to brighten the space. The splashes of color from the backsplash are picked up in the chairs and distribute concentrated areas of color throughout the space. Introducing additional color by varying each chair color further adds to the interest and lively experience of the space, while the strong vertical wood walls balance all the color and offer the perfect setting.

“Greensboro’s Grandest House” was recently selected as the 2013 ShowHouse presented by the Junior League of Greensboro and national media sponsor Traditional Home. Among the local and national design talent featured in this special fundraising event was design duo Patti Allen and Stephanie James of Furnitureland South, who transformed the estate’s patio into a classic, colorful and cozy space. Built in the early 1920s, the Adamsleigh estate is more than 15,000 square feet and covers 13.5 acres that include pools, a lake, tennis courts, a stone gazebo and a five-car garage. The 30×60 patio presented a special design challenge – the space was in disrepair and sat unevenly on a downward slope. Rising to the challenge, Patti and Stephanie partnered with Outer Space Landscapes to change the elevation of the patio in order to draw attention to the focal point and inspiration of the project: a beautiful canopy sofa by Century Furniture. The addition of 6 tons of landscaping material included Pennsylvania blue stone, pebbles, sand, cherry trees, azaleas and geraniums all blooming in the colors of the latest Sunbrella fabrics featured in the outdoor furnishings: crisp, sandy white, fuchsia and tangerine. Patti and Stephanie wanted to showcase clean and classic outdoor style with an edge of color and unexpected elements. Playful ottomans by Baker float in the space for multiple functions, adding an extra pop of color to the sophisticated setting which includes a dining table by Oscar de la Renta, organic spot tables from Phillips Collection, and daybeds and seating from Century Furniture. Combining their passion for interior spaces with signature designs, Allen and James Designs gave this outdoor space the comfort, color and style it deserved. Patti and Stephanie, co-founders of Allen and James Designs, are committed to inspire and influence unique spaces for home, work, play and relaxation. With over 25 years of experience and a dedication to client relationships, their infusion of international inspiration with style, color, texture and vision make Patti and Stephanie a creative duo capable of exceeding the expectations of any client’s design project. By forming over 400 connections with key manufactures such as Henredon, Century, Lillian August, Dovetail, Maitland Smith and Huntington House, Allen and James Designs can provide a broad range of options that virtually meet any need a client has to create their dream home.

The Womb Chair & Ottoman originally designed by Eero Saarinen continues to be one of the most recognized representations of mid-century modernism. Additionally, the Saarinen Womb Chair and Ottoman provides unmatched comfort with molded foam over a fiberglass shell. The designer was able to create a piece that provides a relaxed sitting posture. Introduced in 1948, the Womb Chair and Ottoman is one of the most popular designs to come out of the 1940s. Saarinen realized that people sit in many different ways; he designed a chair that is comfortable whether lounging, slouching, or sitting with a leg thrown over the armrest. Paired with the Womb Ottoman, you may find yourself in the lap of luxury. Our high quality reproduction is crafted of a wool mixed fabric in a variety of colors.

This kitchen embodies a refined American transitional aesthetic—a balance between classic craftsmanship and modern functionality. The white raised‑panel cabinetry introduces timeless elegance, while the clean quartz surfaces and subtle veining elevate the space with a contemporary, luxurious touch. The integrated appliances, including the built‑in oven, microwave, and wine cooler, create a seamless visual flow that keeps the design uncluttered and highly functional. The island serves as both a practical workspace and a visual anchor, echoing the cabinetry’s detailing and offering additional storage and electrical access. Warm under‑cabinet lighting enhances the marble‑look backsplash, adding depth and sophistication. The chandelier, with its black frame and candle‑style lights, introduces a bold contrast that grounds the room and adds character without overwhelming the neutral palette. Overall, this kitchen is designed to feel bright, elegant, and highly livable, combining premium finishes with thoughtful layout choices that support everyday use and elevate the homeowner’s experience.

This remodel gave a former dungeon looking bathroom new life by introducing lots of light and bright colors, soaking claw foot tub, and a large vintage ornate mirror. The room had no windows so we added much needed lighting. Through smart design we were able to add additional square footage for a walk in shower by taking from an unnecessary hallway closet allowing this primary bathroom to be just that with its own tub and walk in shower. The room needed storage so we added new cabinetry where the old tub/shower was and included a couple uppers. Click through because you simply won't believe the change!

Having relocated from Boston, my clients wanted the house to have a New England feel to it with antiques and vintage pieces mixed in alongside new upholstery and textiles. They loved the traditional color palette of cobalt blues and white seen in New England coastal cottages – and also in her collection of Chinoiserie porcelain – and I introduced various shades of greens throughout to expand the palette beyond two colors. In addition, the blue linen chosen for the re-upholstery of the clients existing sofa helped create a cohesive division space between living room and kitchen, making blue a predominant color in the open space. ____ Photography by Ebony Ellis for Charleston Home + Design Magazine

The Whiteside Residence, “Shine a Light” remodeling project was recognized with numerous regional and national de- sign awards and was featured in Sarah Susanka’s Not So Big® Remodeling hard- cover book. The 1950’s ranch was light starved by the deep roof overhangs. The homeowners wanted drama, light, and spaciousness to be introduced into their mundane ranch. The design solution placed a focal point fireplace and a dramatic roof monitor at the very center of the home. We peeled back the drywall revealing, and celebrating, the existing stick built roof framing. -Stanley Livingston Photography

This dedicated laundry room combines extensive blue cabinetry with a large central work island to create generous storage and folding space. Stone countertops, a built-in utility sink, floating shelves, and matte black fixtures balance function with streamlined detailing, while woven baskets introduce additional accessible storage. A large-scale checkerboard tile floor adds graphic contrast and gives the utility-focused space a distinctive design element.

The Whiteside Residence, “Shine a Light” remodeling project was recognized with numerous regional and national de- sign awards and was featured in Sarah Susanka’s Not So Big® Remodeling hard- cover book. The 1950’s ranch was light starved by the deep roof overhangs. The homeowners wanted drama, light, and spaciousness to be introduced into their mundane ranch. The design solution placed a focal point fireplace and a dramatic roof monitor at the very center of the home. We peeled back the drywall revealing, and celebrating, the existing stick built roof framing. -Stanley Livingston Photography

The current home for this family was not large enough for their needs. We extended the master bedroom to create an additional walk-in closet and added a master bathroom to allow the parents to have their own retreat. We mixed the couple’s styles by introducing hints of midcentury modern and transitional elements throughout the home. A neutral palette and clean lines are found throughout the home with splashes of color. We also focused on the functionality of the home by removing some of the walls that did not allow the home to flow, keeping it open for conversation in the main living areas. Contact us today, (562) 444-8745.

We’re proud to introduce StraightLine’s newest addition, Black Ash, to the North American market in 2018. This beautifully painted wood brings elegance and contrast to your kitchen organization. Comprised of 25 handcrafted pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a huge range of organization systems—for drawers, deep drawers, and Kesseböhmer’s Dispensa and Lavido pantries.

Kitchen addition features sunny breakfast area, new door and windows to grilling patio and large center island with marble counters. JMOC Builders, Heidi Piron Design & Cabinetry, Peter Rymwid photography.

Revamping the pantry is a transformative project that elevates both form and function in the kitchen space. Introducing adjustable shelving and pull-out trays optimizes storage, making it easier to access and organize a variety of items. Customized storage solutions for spices, canned goods, and dry ingredients enhance efficiency and reduce clutter. Consideration of lighting, such as LED strips or motion-sensor lights, improves visibility and adds a modern touch. A fresh coat of paint or stylish wallpaper can breathe new life into the pantry, contributing to an overall aesthetic upgrade. Additionally, investing in a smart organization system, such as labeled bins or baskets, ensures everything has a designated place. Redoing the pantry is not just about practicality; it's an opportunity to create a well-organized, visually appealing space that enhances the overall kitchen experience.

Introducing our Miller Reversible Sleeper Sectional Sofa with storage, the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality for your living space. This versatile piece is designed to cater to your seating and sleeping needs, while offering ample storage space to keep your living area organized and clutter-free. The reversible chaise allows you to adapt the configuration to suit your preferences and space requirements, providing flexibility and versatility. When it's time to unwind or accommodate overnight guests, the pull-out sleeper feature comes to the rescue. The tufted back cushions not only add an elegant touch to the design but also provide enhanced comfort and support. Additionally, the storage compartment integrated into the sofa chaise provides a convenient solution for keeping your belongings neatly organized and easily accessible. Experience the perfect blend of style and practicality with this sofa chaise sleeper.

Tucked into the mountains with sweeping forest views, this architectural masterpiece offers luxury at every turn. Floor-to-ceiling glass, expansive decks, and handcrafted materials make this home a retreat in itself—but it’s the addition of a custom fire pit that brings the entire outdoor experience to life. Nestled on the lower terrace, the square fire feature anchors the lounge area and invites guests to gather, unwind, and stay a little longer. Its bold design adds structure to the open patio, while the warm glow of the flames mirrors the surrounding sunset hues. Paired with deep seating, umbrellas, and mountain air, the fire pit transforms a stunning home into an unforgettable sanctuary. Even in homes where nothing feels missing, a fire pit can introduce a new kind of magic—comfort, connection, and the kind of moments that define home.