Search results for "Address challenges" in Home Design Ideas

This 1929 Tudor kitchen and porch in St. Paul’s Macalester-Groveland neighborhood was ready for a remodel. The existing back porch was falling off the home and the kitchen was a challenge for the family.
A new kitchen was designed that opened up to the dining room, to create more light and sense of space.
A small back addition was completed to extend the mudroom space and storage. Castle designed and constructed a new open back porch with Azek composite decking, new railing, and stunning arch detail on the roof to coordinate with the home’s existing sweeping lines.
Inside the kitchen, Crystal cabinetry, Silestone quartz countertops, Blanco composite sink, Kohler faucet, new appliances from Warners’ Stellian, chevron tile backsplash from Ceramic Tileworks, and new hardwoods, laced in to match the existing, fully update the space.
One of our favorite details is the glass-doored pantry for the homeowners to showcase their Fiestaware!
Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

This classic Portland bungalow in the highly desirable Irvington neighborhood has been in the family for generations and lovingly cared for and updated throughout the years. It was now the main floor’s primary bathroom that needed to be addressed. A tight footprint made for some space planning challenges, but what we love so much about this project is that it demonstrates that so much can be done with a small space! Designing a shallower than typical vanity allowed us to extend the cabinetry and countertop as far as the door swing into the room would allow, adding much needed storage to the room. A narrow undermount sink combined with wall mount faucet ensures the vanity remains extremely functional. A tower cabinet at the end frames the sink and mirror, bringing an appreciated moment of symmetry while providing space for electric bathroom products and so much more. Where a two sided tub/shower once lived, now a walk in shower framed in glass makes the space feel, and live, significantly larger than its modest square footage. The use of glass on only the long side, and pony wall with glass above on the short end, visually expands the space allowing the eye to move freely around the room while still providing privacy at the toilet. Marmoleum flooring makes for easy cleaning while mosaic tile on the shower floor ensures traction in the wet environment. A classic penny tile accent around the shower walls, combined with the tile wainscot around the room speak to the classic architecture of the home. The bright and fresh palette is at once lively and calming, youthful and sophisticated, current and timeless!

Rustic-Modern Finnish Kitchen
Our client was inclined to transform this kitchen into a functional, Finnish inspired space. Finnish interior design can simply be described in 3 words: simplicity, innovation, and functionalism. Finnish design addresses the tough climate, unique nature, and limited sunlight, which inspired designers to create solutions, that would meet the everyday life challenges. The combination of the knotty, blue-gray alder base cabinets combined with the clean white wall cabinets reveal mixing these rustic Finnish touches with the modern. The leaded glass on the upper cabinetry was selected so our client can display their personal collection from Finland.
Mixing black modern hardware and fixtures with the handmade, light, and bright backsplash tile make this kitchen a timeless show stopper.
This project was done in collaboration with Susan O'Brian from EcoLux Interiors.
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This was the another opportunity to work with one of our favorite clients on one of her projects. This time she wanted to completely revamp a recently purchased make-shift revenue property and convert it to a legal three-suiter maximizing rental income in a prime rental area close to NAIT. The mid-fifties semi-bungalow was in quite poor condition, so it was a challenging opportunity to address the various structural deficiencies while keeping the project at a reasonable budget. We gutted and opened up all three floors, removed a poorly constructed rear addition, and created three comfortable suites on the three separate floors. Compare the before and after pictures - a complete transformation!

The client purchased a mature, small, NAPA Valley vineyard to be their home and for personal enjoyment.
Once they began converting their new "hobby" grapes into wine, they soon realized they needed a place to "age" their labors and a place to then enjoy them. They decided to design such a place within the confines of their home where they could entertain family and friends.
The structure was modified to allow storage of more than 200 individual bottles, cases, and magnum size bottles. A cask room was added as was a well-appointed tasting room. The storage area is separated from the tasting and social area by a tempered glass doors and windows. The space to be converted was a challenge. No surface was plumb or level, therefore, the remodel involved interior walls, new floors and ceilings.
Until these issues were addressed, the beautiful cabinet work, and a complete temperature and humidity control system to store, maintain, and enjoy the wine could not be started. The floors had to be floated out and chases with faux finishes provided for HVAC and electrical. Lighting in the tasting room is provided by a series of recessed and puck lights.
The bar/counter area is highlighted by a custom, Tiffany style chandelier. Enough space was left in front of the bar to accommodate two serving tables for food and snacks, with plenty of room to move about the space. Discreetly hidden behind the bar is a large capacity cooler that can chill several bottles at once.
The bar is capped with eight lineal feet of Calcutta Gold Marble and sports a brass foot rail. The bar has grape panels between Acanthus Corbels and the bottle storage cabinet areas are a unique blend of Acanthus overlays under precisely cut and mitered grape design crown molding over and around a cleverly designed bottle storage system.
Traffic flow is achieved through the multiple points of entry through any of three pairs of 6' custom double doors which, when weather permitting, can remain open while entertaining. The host and hostess can attend food and beverage service from behind and around the bar through a separate doorway.
The temperature controlled cask storage area is large enough for the clients' current needs, and can accommodate a larger number of casks should the need arise.
The floor and walls of the cask room are designed for easy maintenance.. Both rooms are delightfully decorated with earthen tone faux finishes on walls, ceilings and floors reminiscent of a nonspecific European wine making region.
This effect is extended to the soffits in the tasting room. A unique wine racking system is easily stored, providing even greater ability to maintain and move about the storage area.

Our clients approached us to renovate their loved family home. The Main Floor needed a fresh update, and better functionality and storage to fit the needs of their growing family.
The existing Kitchen felt closed off from the rest of the Main Floor, and the layout did not allow for enough countertop or storage space. Each of their Bathrooms also needed an update and better storage.
Due to a previously bad experience with another contractor previously, it was important for our clients to work with a contractor who they could build trust with, and feel respected by and comfortable with.
Using space from an extra stairway in the side entry of the house, we were able to create a spacious mudroom, perfect for taking a seat to put on or take off coats and boots, and unique, hidden storage for seasonal and outdoor items.
We were able to create a more open concept Main Floor, by removing the walls between the Kitchen and Family Room. This allowed for a larger, more functional Kitchen. The new Kitchen is bright and welcoming with white quartz countertops that run seamlessly into a matching backsplash. Beautiful white cabinetry is complemented by brushed bronze pulls and faucets, and durable, contemporary flooring.
We transformed the Kitchen and Family Room areas with a vaulted ceiling, and a repaired and modernized Kitchen skylight. We also integrated a patio door entrance, which combined with both sloped and flat sections of the vaulted ceiling, proved to be quite a challenge!
This project involved skilled welding, roofing, and structural work, and it was important to maintain the structural integrity of the ceiling. As any mistakes could result in serious issues, communication between everyone involved was key! Regular team meetings, updates on progress, and addressing concerns promptly kept everyone on the same page and avoided misunderstandings. In the end, the raised ceiling, skylight, and patio door were well worth the work, as together they enhanced the airiness and visual spaciousness of the space.
On the Second Floor, we created a larger Master Ensuite by borrowing room from existing closet space. This allowed for a spacious walk-in shower, and separate bathtub. A prefabricated stylish vanity not only adds a pop of colour, but also provides plenty of useful storage. New marble tiling on the floor extends to the wall behind the bathtub, creating a luxurious accent wall.
The Shared Bathroom was updated to include a new walk-in shower, and a separate bathtub, surrounded by modern geometric wall tiles.
The removal of popcorn ceilings, an updated the Front Door, and a refinished Main Staircase with metal railings completed tying the home together, creating a fresh, updated space that this family can enjoy for years to come.

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots.
The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen.
As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family.
Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan.
The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views.
Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life.
Outcomes and Lasting Impact
The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place.
Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard.
Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners.
Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes
Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc.
Contractor: Golden Snail Builders
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed:2022

Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.”
While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting.
Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence.
The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world.
We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline.
Scale
0.47 ACRES
Scope
HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN
Year
2025
Photography
Studio PYG
Architecture Renovation
Bravo Architecture
Interior Design
Miriam Moore Design Studio
Landscape Architecture
LandFluent
General Contractor
Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida
Landscape Contractor
Signature Trees & Palms
Lighting Design / Contractor
PCL Lighting

A family of five needed a kitchen that would accommodate three growing children. Better Storage organization was key in the redesign. The couple wanted to convert their galley kitchen into a larger space without compromising their dining area. They wanted a learning and gathering place for their children. They longed for a cozy but spacious kitchen to nurture their close-knit family. Their home is small so it was a challenge to create a kitchen that would address all of their needs
The client wanted high quality, durable cabinetry with luxury finishes. We designed and installed high quality RUTT Cabinetry, all maple wood, American made cabinetry that will be durable and beautiful for so many years to come. The cabinetry color they chose was a soft gray. The finish is silky smooth.
Since they love the marble look, we recommended 48”x48” porcelain wall tiles and a quartz countertop. This material achieves the look they want, is durable and is easy to keep clean.
We installed a beautiful white oak wood floor stained in a custom grayish color that added charm to their older home. A vertical floor to ceiling, very stylish, aluminum hot Water radiator which gave them welcome heat. A bronze light fixture with clean lines added elegance and glowing light.

Home Remodeling Project Overview
This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges:
• A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical.
• A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow.
• A front foyer with wasted space.
• A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room.
The Remodeling Concept
The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that:
• Removed two walls and moved doorways.
• Replaced the kitchen window.
• Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space.
• Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room.
Kitchen Transformation
• Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area.
• New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room.
• Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility.
• Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look.
Dining Room
• Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements.
Living Room Improvements
• Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow.
• Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle.
Additional Updates
• New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring.
• Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting.
• Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island.
• Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance.
The Result
The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

When the Owners approached Goggans Architecture about renovation of a 90’s era oceanfront house, it was clear there would be a lot more to the renovation than mere updates and remedying deferred maintenance. One of the most significant issues was how to integrate an outdoor pool given the pool had to be within the building envelope, and the house was already abutting the setback on its ocean side. A second significant challenge was how to provide a roof top deck over a pitched roof house with an attic, that was functional and attractive. Finally, creating better access from the parking area to the kitchen was a priority.
Goggans Architecture addressed the placement of a pool by creating a walled courtyard at the front, or landward side, of the house. The pool was placed on one side of the entry walkway, while its composition was balanced by a parterre garden on the other side of the walkway. The roof top deck was resolved by adding a new staircase and passageway through former attic space. By using a motorized roof hatch, the Owners could ascend to the roof deck which perched just below the roof ridge, hidden from view from the street. Relocating an underneath stair from one side of the house to a point that was closer to the kitchen resolved the access issue.
These strategic moves created other opportunities, such as expansion of the master bathroom to a portion of the front porch, while allowing an exterior stair from the bath directly to the pool. Other enhancements included placement of a large folding door in the Great room, renovation and expansion of the kitchen and exterior decks, reorganization, and replacement of the fenestration, updating all baths and interior and exterior finishes.
The extensive renovation reflects the holistic approach of Goggans Architecture, marrying landscape architecture, architecture, and interiors.

White Kitchen Cabinets: Timeless Elegance for Modern Homes
White kitchen cabinets are more than just a design choice; they're a testament to timeless elegance and adaptability in the heart of any home. As homeowners continue to seek spaces that feel airy, clean, and spacious, white cabinets have emerged as a top choice for both modern and traditional kitchens alike.
Why Choose White Kitchen Cabinets?
Versatility: The neutral hue of white allows these cabinets to blend seamlessly with any color palette or kitchen design. Whether you're aiming for a sleek modern look or a cozy cottage vibe, white cabinets can be the perfect canvas to achieve your desired aesthetic.
Brightness and Space: White reflects light beautifully, making your kitchen appear larger and more open. It's especially beneficial for smaller spaces, where creating an illusion of a more expansive area is crucial.
Timeless Appeal: While trends come and go, white has an enduring appeal. It exudes a sense of cleanliness and simplicity, making it a long-lasting choice for homeowners.
Resale Value: If you ever consider selling your home, white kitchen cabinets can boost your property's appeal to potential buyers, ensuring that your kitchen remains stylish and up-to-date.
Pairing with Other Elements
The adaptability of white kitchen cabinets means you can play with various colors and textures. Whether it's a vibrant backsplash, granite countertops, or wooden flooring, the neutrality of white ensures that everything comes together harmoniously.
Maintenance and Durability
A common misconception is that white cabinets can be challenging to maintain. However, with today's advancements in paint and finishes, white kitchen cabinets are resistant to stains and easy to clean. Furthermore, any marks or stains are quickly spotted, ensuring that you can address them promptly, keeping your cabinets in pristine condition.
Conclusion
White kitchen cabinets are not just a fleeting trend. Their unmatched versatility, the spacious feel they bring to any kitchen, and their timeless beauty make them an excellent choice for homeowners. Whether you're renovating your kitchen or designing a new one, consider the elegance and adaptability that white cabinets can bring to your space. With proper care and the right design elements, your white kitchen can be a showstopper for years to come.

This Primary Suite renovation was designed to enhance both functionality and aesthetics, creating a luxurious yet practical retreat. The original floor plan presented several challenges, including inefficient space utilization, lack of storage, and outdated design elements that no longer met the homeowner’s needs. To address these concerns, the new layout was carefully planned to improve flow, maximize storage, and incorporate modern conveniences while maintaining a timeless appeal.

The goal of the project was to address the physical and perceptual challenges of aging in place while preserving and honoring the original design of the compound. The additions were designed to be compatible with the existing guest house, complement its small scale, and clearly read as new construction. The new volumes were purposely clad in contrasting materials, such as poplar bark shingles, thermally modified pine, stamped zinc-coated metal, and Shou Sugi Ban siding, to distinguish between the existing and the new, while still complementing the original materials palette. In consultation with arborists, the additions were designed to jog around and preserve the mature existing trees.

The Plymouth clients faced a dilemma with a non-functioning dishwasher, ovens, and cooktop, an awkward layout, and dated arches straight from the ’80s. Despite the challenges, their love for the school district, neighborhood, and home prevailed.
We undertook a transformative journey, turning their first floor into an entertainer’s haven with a stunning kitchen, a chic dining room, an enchanting powder bath, and a practical mudroom.
Breaking down barriers, we removed the wall between the kitchen and living room, widening entrances to the dining room. Faux beams and a window in the family room were eliminated, and the old Chicago fireplace brick received a sleek black makeover crowned with a live edge mantel. A pop of terracotta paint and floating shelves in the new record player niche set the stage for nostalgic LPs.
Considering the family’s love for baking and grilling, we prioritized ample storage. Pull-out spice racks, a charging drawer, built-in knife block, trash & recycle pull-out, built-in tray dividers, corner storage, large drawers, and roll-out shelves now keep everything organized and easily accessible.
Embracing a Scandifornian design style, favored by the clients, infused the space with color and natural materials. A woven grass light fixture in the dining room, light wood-look luxury vinyl floors, and a vibrant green herringbone tile backsplash all contributed to the refreshing aesthetic. Throughout the home, terracotta and green hues with accents of black added depth and interest, while the redesigned layout now bathes the entire space in natural light.
In addressing practical needs, we removed an exterior door from the mudroom to create a closet and a built-in bench with hooks. The main entry and powder bath now share playful floral wallpaper, complemented by a walnut vanity and gold fixtures in the powder room, offering a sophisticated touch amidst vibrant botanicals.

Shyla dreamed of transforming her master bathroom into a serene sanctuary with a Turkish feel. She sought a space that would provide a peaceful retreat while addressing outdated features and limited functionality.
The outdated layout presented a challenge, but after a thoughtful design phase, a plan was developed to create a functional and visually stunning space.
A custom walk-in shower became the centerpiece of the design, combining style with functionality. Moroccan Mix in Azure brought vibrant charm to the accent wall, while Smooth White tiles provided a clean and elegant frame.
The Bay View hexagon tiles on the shower floor added character and a fun style, while a built-in bench and a wall niche, finished with the same Azure accent tiles, provided useful storage and a unified look.
Replacing the old built-in tub, a freestanding tub in slate blue with brass feet became a bold and sophisticated centerpiece. Paired with a champagne bronze floor-mounted tub filler, this area radiates spa-like tranquility.
Sage-painted Waypoint cabinets paired with Calacatta Luccia quartz countertops added charm and elegance. Vessel sinks champagne bronze faucets, framed mirrors, and updated lighting completed the transformation.
Shyla’s master bathroom has been transformed into a serene and luxurious retreat tailored to her needs. The renovated space not only enhances her daily routine but also adds timeless beauty to her home.

Shyla dreamed of transforming her master bathroom into a serene sanctuary with a Turkish feel. She sought a space that would provide a peaceful retreat while addressing outdated features and limited functionality.
The outdated layout presented a challenge, but after a thoughtful design phase, a plan was developed to create a functional and visually stunning space.
A custom walk-in shower became the centerpiece of the design, combining style with functionality. Moroccan Mix in Azure brought vibrant charm to the accent wall, while Smooth White tiles provided a clean and elegant frame.
The Bay View hexagon tiles on the shower floor added character and a fun style, while a built-in bench and a wall niche, finished with the same Azure accent tiles, provided useful storage and a unified look.
Replacing the old built-in tub, a freestanding tub in slate blue with brass feet became a bold and sophisticated centerpiece. Paired with a champagne bronze floor-mounted tub filler, this area radiates spa-like tranquility.
Sage-painted Waypoint cabinets paired with Calacatta Luccia quartz countertops added charm and elegance. Vessel sinks champagne bronze faucets, framed mirrors, and updated lighting completed the transformation.
Shyla’s master bathroom has been transformed into a serene and luxurious retreat tailored to her needs. The renovated space not only enhances her daily routine but also adds timeless beauty to her home.

A family of five needed a kitchen that would accommodate three growing children. Better Storage organization was key in the redesign. The couple wanted to convert their galley kitchen into a larger space without compromising their dining area. They wanted a learning and gathering place for their children. They longed for a cozy but spacious kitchen to nurture their close-knit family. Their home is small so it was a challenge to create a kitchen that would address all of their needs
The client wanted high quality, durable cabinetry with luxury finishes. We designed and installed high quality RUTT Cabinetry, all maple wood, American made cabinetry that will be durable and beautiful for so many years to come. The cabinetry color they chose was a soft gray. The finish is silky smooth.
Since they love the marble look, we recommended 48”x48” porcelain wall tiles and a quartz countertop. This material achieves the look they want, is durable and is easy to keep clean.
We installed a beautiful white oak wood floor stained in a custom grayish color that added charm to their older home. A vertical floor to ceiling, very stylish, aluminum hot Water radiator which gave them welcome heat. A bronze light fixture with clean lines added elegance and glowing light.

This growing family of six was struggling with a dysfunctional kitchen design. The center island had been installed at an odd angle that limited accessibility and traffic flow. Additionally, storage space was limited by poor cabinet design. Finally, doorways in and out of the kitchen were narrow and poorly located, especially for children dashing in and out.
Other design challenges included how to better use a 10’ x 12’ room for children’s jackets and toys and how to add a professional-quality gas range in a neighborhood were natural gas wasn’t available. The new design would address all of these issues.
DESIGN SOLUTIONS
The new kitchen design revolves around a more proportional island. Carefully placed in the center of the new space with seating for four, it includes a prep sink, a second dishwasher and a beverage center.
The distressed ebony-stained island and hutch provides a brilliant contrast between the white color cabinetry. White Carrera marble countertops and backsplash top both island and perimeter cabinets.
Tall, double stacked cabinetry lines two walls to maximize storage space. Across the room there was an unused wall that now contains a 36” tower fridge and freezer, both covered with matching panels, and a tall cabinet that contains a microwave, steam unit and warming drawer.
A propane tank was buried in the back yard to provide gas to a new 60” professional range and cooktop. A custom-made wood mantel hood blends perfectly with the cabinet style.
The old laundry room was reconfigured to have lots of locker space for all kids and added cabinetry for storage. A double entry door separated the new mudroom from the rest of the back hall. In the back hall the back windows were replaced with a set of French door and added decking to create a direct access to deck and backyard.
The end result is an open floor plan, high-end appliances, great traffic flow and pleasing colors. The homeowner calls it the “kitchen of her dreams.”

Built in 1910, this charming DC row house is located in the historic Bloomingdale neighborhood. At some point, the home had been converted into two separate apartments and, in doing so, the previous owners had removed the connecting stairs and made some other problematic design decisions. When our clients purchased the home in 2017, it required a full gut renovation in order to bring it up to code and return it to a single family residence. One of the initial challenges was to address the excessive bulkheads, soffits and ceiling height changes that made the rooms feel off kilter. Reconfiguring the HVAC system and ductwork allowed us to minimize bulkheads and raise the ceilings which, in turn made the spaces feel larger and more open. In the kitchen, the extra height meant we could install taller upper cabinets which provided much needed storage. By expanding the kitchen we were able to reconfigure the layout and create additional prep space and a more functional location for the range.
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