Karen Tropea
Inspiration for a cottage living room remodel in Philadelphia

Bright, neutral living room with fiddle leaf fig tree.
Living room - modern living room idea in Sacramento

The new living room is dominated by the custom built-in entertainment center. The hidden feature here is the metal weave inserts in the two lower cabinets. These conceal the electronics while allowing remotes to... remote. Phot by Tim Krueger

A feature unique to this house, the inset nook functions like an inverted bay window on the interior, with built-in bench seating included, while simultaneously providing built-in seating for the exterior eating area as well. Large sliding windows allow the boundary to dissolve completely here. Photography: Andrew Pogue Photography.

In Acworth, Georgia, we proudly present an extraordinary two-story indoor facility that houses a state-of-the-art pickleball court and sports arena. This meticulously designed space not only caters to the avid athletes but also ensures a holistic experience for both players and spectators alike. Our cutting-edge facility boasts a admirably crafted pickleball court, providing enthusiasts with an unparalleled playing environment. Beyond the court, the sports arena encompasses a range of amenities, including a well-appointed kitchenette, ensuring that participants have access to refreshments and nourishment during their activities. Additionally, we have incorporated modern and well-maintained restrooms for the convenience and comfort of our guests. What sets our project apart is the emphasis on creating an inclusive experience for everyone. Ample viewing areas have been strategically integrated, allowing spectators to enjoy the thrilling matches and competitions from various vantage points.

The previous award winning remodel of their Burr Ridge home brought these clients back to LaMantia and designers Jackie Prazak and Katie Suva, CKD, CBD when they decided it was time to build out their unfinished lower level. As before, their main objective was to create areas to accommodate their extended (and now grown) family. During the 2013 main floor remodel, a bedroom and Powder Room had been given up to gain the large award winning kitchen, so recapturing those two spaces were high on the “list of desires.” Also on the list was the need for a pool table, a comfortable movie/TV space, lots of game storage and plenty of open area for grandchildren game playing. The stairway into the lower level was the main challenge in this build-out; both the stair run and tread depth needed to be lengthened to perform to code. To create greater head room on the staircase the main beam was cut and a portion was relocated 18”. A second column at the end of the stair run was added to match the required structural column, allowing the last tread to wrap decoratively onto each side. Throughout the design planning many details built-into the main level project were repeated to marry the main and lower levels together. The built-in cabinetry and the mirrored doors in the bedroom can also be found in the Guest Room on the main level. The mirrored element over the bed is actually an interior door glazed with mirrors and hung on its side. The parquet look tile flooring of the new bath is reminiscent of the main level wood parquet flooring while the carpenter built wainscoting also can be found in the main hall of the first floor. The custom walnut stair spindles were fabricated from a photo the homeowner found and loved. In the Movie/TV area the theatre seats are fully powered to accept iPhones, iPads, Laptops, etc. Also note the large chalkboard scorekeeping area with seating for the game players. And, one very special detail can be found under the (now longer) staircase; a private room under the stairs was created with touch-lighting and bean bag chairs for anyone seeking a quiet space.

The previous award winning remodel of their Burr Ridge home brought these clients back to LaMantia and designers Jackie Prazak and Katie Suva, CKD, CBD when they decided it was time to build out their unfinished lower level. As before, their main objective was to create areas to accommodate their extended (and now grown) family. During the 2013 main floor remodel, a bedroom and Powder Room had been given up to gain the large award winning kitchen, so recapturing those two spaces were high on the “list of desires.” Also on the list was the need for a pool table, a comfortable movie/TV space, lots of game storage and plenty of open area for grandchildren game playing. The stairway into the lower level was the main challenge in this build-out; both the stair run and tread depth needed to be lengthened to perform to code. To create greater head room on the staircase the main beam was cut and a portion was relocated 18”. A second column at the end of the stair run was added to match the required structural column, allowing the last tread to wrap decoratively onto each side. Throughout the design planning many details built-into the main level project were repeated to marry the main and lower levels together. The built-in cabinetry and the mirrored doors in the bedroom can also be found in the Guest Room on the main level. The mirrored element over the bed is actually an interior door glazed with mirrors and hung on its side. The parquet look tile flooring of the new bath is reminiscent of the main level wood parquet flooring while the carpenter built wainscoting also can be found in the main hall of the first floor. The custom walnut stair spindles were fabricated from a photo the homeowner found and loved. In the Movie/TV area the theatre seats are fully powered to accept iPhones, iPads, Laptops, etc. Also note the large chalkboard scorekeeping area with seating for the game players. And, one very special detail can be found under the (now longer) staircase; a private room under the stairs was created with touch-lighting and bean bag chairs for anyone seeking a quiet space.

The electronics featured in this media room are very cutting edge. A Wolf Cinema projector with a Variscope lens allows us to set up the most popular aspect ratios and project a brilliant light on a 143" diagonal screen. We utilized the latest pre/pro from Integra as well as Class D amplification from Bel Canto. The Integra incorporates Audyssey digital correction circuitry, which measures the room’s properties/acoustics and maximizes the sound in the room. The sources include an Oppo Blu ray player, AM/FM, DirecTV HD and AppleTV. The entire system is controlled by an RTI touchscreen remote for easy, intuitive control. The sound is effortless and it is a match made in heaven. The room consists of two rows of seating. The front row is a very comfortable pit seating group and the second row utilizes leather theater chairs. All of this leads to a well-appointed, acoustically superior media room. Photo by UltraMedia, Inc.

Expanding the second floor allowed for the creation of this light-filled boy's bedroom. The custom-built window seat provides ample storage and a comfortable place to read and relax. Dark hardwoods and soft blue walls create a cozy backdrop for this lacrosse player's sanctuary.

A young couple living in Rochester Hills were unhappy with their living room and dining room space, feeling like they didn’t truly reflect their taste, personality, or lifestyle. So, they came to Horizon Interior Design for help! They wanted new furnishings and décor that matched their taste and would feel more inviting for friends and family, allowing them to host holiday gatherings comfortably. Another issue they had was unused space at the end of their room, which they weren’t sure what to do with, and a severe lack of storage space and spots to display their collection of décor and photos. As a record collector and music lover, it made sense to transform the dead space at the end of their living room into a music lounge area with two lounge chairs and a space for a vintage record player. We also incorporated Irish wall art and an ottoman tray from their home city in Ireland. Drawn to the simplicity of mid-century modern design, we added lovely pops of color into the space with a bright rug, chairs, and pillows. We also added a beautiful set of bookcases with closed storage to flank the fireplace and add more display space. We also added an extension dining table, sectional, and accent chairs to accommodate large family gatherings. Now the space perfectly mirrored this couple and their tastes.

The previous award winning remodel of their Burr Ridge home brought these clients back to LaMantia and designers Jackie Prazak and Katie Suva, CKD, CBD when they decided it was time to build out their unfinished lower level. As before, their main objective was to create areas to accommodate their extended (and now grown) family. During the 2013 main floor remodel, a bedroom and Powder Room had been given up to gain the large award winning kitchen, so recapturing those two spaces were high on the “list of desires.” Also on the list was the need for a pool table, a comfortable movie/TV space, lots of game storage and plenty of open area for grandchildren game playing. The stairway into the lower level was the main challenge in this build-out; both the stair run and tread depth needed to be lengthened to perform to code. To create greater head room on the staircase the main beam was cut and a portion was relocated 18”. A second column at the end of the stair run was added to match the required structural column, allowing the last tread to wrap decoratively onto each side. Throughout the design planning many details built-into the main level project were repeated to marry the main and lower levels together. The built-in cabinetry and the mirrored doors in the bedroom can also be found in the Guest Room on the main level. The mirrored element over the bed is actually an interior door glazed with mirrors and hung on its side. The parquet look tile flooring of the new bath is reminiscent of the main level wood parquet flooring while the carpenter built wainscoting also can be found in the main hall of the first floor. The custom walnut stair spindles were fabricated from a photo the homeowner found and loved. In the Movie/TV area the theatre seats are fully powered to accept iPhones, iPads, Laptops, etc. Also note the large chalkboard scorekeeping area with seating for the game players. And, one very special detail can be found under the (now longer) staircase; a private room under the stairs was created with touch-lighting and bean bag chairs for anyone seeking a quiet space.

The previous award winning remodel of their Burr Ridge home brought these clients back to LaMantia and designers Jackie Prazak and Katie Suva, CKD, CBD when they decided it was time to build out their unfinished lower level. As before, their main objective was to create areas to accommodate their extended (and now grown) family. During the 2013 main floor remodel, a bedroom and Powder Room had been given up to gain the large award winning kitchen, so recapturing those two spaces were high on the “list of desires.” Also on the list was the need for a pool table, a comfortable movie/TV space, lots of game storage and plenty of open area for grandchildren game playing. The stairway into the lower level was the main challenge in this build-out; both the stair run and tread depth needed to be lengthened to perform to code. To create greater head room on the staircase the main beam was cut and a portion was relocated 18”. A second column at the end of the stair run was added to match the required structural column, allowing the last tread to wrap decoratively onto each side. Throughout the design planning many details built-into the main level project were repeated to marry the main and lower levels together. The built-in cabinetry and the mirrored doors in the bedroom can also be found in the Guest Room on the main level. The mirrored element over the bed is actually an interior door glazed with mirrors and hung on its side. The parquet look tile flooring of the new bath is reminiscent of the main level wood parquet flooring while the carpenter built wainscoting also can be found in the main hall of the first floor. The custom walnut stair spindles were fabricated from a photo the homeowner found and loved. In the Movie/TV area the theatre seats are fully powered to accept iPhones, iPads, Laptops, etc. Also note the large chalkboard scorekeeping area with seating for the game players. And, one very special detail can be found under the (now longer) staircase; a private room under the stairs was created with touch-lighting and bean bag chairs for anyone seeking a quiet space.

A young couple living in Rochester Hills were unhappy with their living room and dining room space, feeling like they didn’t truly reflect their taste, personality, or lifestyle. So, they came to Horizon Interior Design for help! They wanted new furnishings and décor that matched their taste and would feel more inviting for friends and family, allowing them to host holiday gatherings comfortably. Another issue they had was unused space at the end of their room, which they weren’t sure what to do with, and a severe lack of storage space and spots to display their collection of décor and photos. As a record collector and music lover, it made sense to transform the dead space at the end of their living room into a music lounge area with two lounge chairs and a space for a vintage record player. We also incorporated Irish wall art and an ottoman tray from their home city in Ireland. Drawn to the simplicity of mid-century modern design, we added lovely pops of color into the space with a bright rug, chairs, and pillows. We also added a beautiful set of bookcases with closed storage to flank the fireplace and add more display space. We also added an extension dining table, sectional, and accent chairs to accommodate large family gatherings. Now the space perfectly mirrored this couple and their tastes.

The renovation of an extensive linear residence and site facing Port Orchard waterway embraces water, greenspace and forested hillside. The home, completed this fall, serves as an artist’s studio, galleries, family space, game room, outdoor living areas and peaceful retreat. New interiors and exterior spaces and finishes, cabinetry, lighting, paving, landscape and courtyards become settings for the owner’s art + collections, three-generations of family and the wonderful colors and textures of the land + water. Inside, a monumental central stair and tapered two-story tall red cedar and steel column was designed as the residence’s entry focal point and internal landmarks, guiding the visitor’s eye to the main atrium…. and upward. Heavy wide-flange steel moment frames support the house and enable whole walls of glass. Rough, mill-finished steel contrasts refined cabinetry, stone, wood structure and defining dropped ceilings, reflecting the opener’s love of the tension between highly polished and detailed + rough, found art. Outside, A new southern “dining room” was designed for warm summer evening gatherings under a heavy-timber trellis. The focus, opposite water and island views, is a metal perforated screen. The final screen is composed of the lyrics from a Joe Cocker song of great meaning to the owners, cut from ½” marine bronze, set into dark-fired brick. “Oh My Darling, Be Home Soon….” Natural daylight and high-efficiency lighting are central players as in any gallery. From a high clerestory and extensive southern and eastern window-walls to carefully selected up-lighting, pendants, and accent fixtures, Rhodes Architecture + Light worked closely with the owner to ensure that their dark existing house would become one filled with light…. night and day. The owners, Ken and Jane, allowed us to interview them about their experience working with Rhodes Architecture + Light, and how they are feeling about living with the architecture today. What was your experience like, working with Rhodes Architecture + Light? “They worked with us because it was a remodel, an existing thing, and we had to try to make it work for all of our interests and how our family operated. They listened, and we listened, and it was a great communication back and forth.”–Jane How has the renovation changed the way you live and enjoy your home? “I remember saying to them that I want the whole floor heated because it gets so chilly down here. And we had the wood burning stove, but it was over there and now we just turn the floor heat on and we can come down. It’s cozy and nice. So we’re looking forward to winter now.”–Ken “We have 5 kids together and now a bunch of grandchildren. I wanted a marble countertop, but there’s just no way. I didn’t want it to be a place where I had to say, ‘No, no, no. Wipe up your drink, do this, do that.’ I wanted it to be a place where everybody can come with all the kids, and we make a big mess, and I can clean it up. And we can enjoy ourselves here, because that room upstairs, we almost never went in. And now we’re in there eating pizza and watching the game.” –Jane As an artist, Jane enjoyed the collaborative process. “I can’t believe it was as positive as it was. I went into it thinking it would be a great, creative, fun, collaborative thing, and I have to say, with our architects, it was. I like that creative process. I always say when I am doing a painting, it’s a series of problem solving so it wasn’t unusual for me. I am completely blown away by them and had fun with that part of it.” –Jane

The renovation of an extensive linear residence and site facing Port Orchard waterway embraces water, greenspace and forested hillside. The home, completed this fall, serves as an artist’s studio, galleries, family space, game room, outdoor living areas and peaceful retreat. New interiors and exterior spaces and finishes, cabinetry, lighting, paving, landscape and courtyards become settings for the owner’s art + collections, three-generations of family and the wonderful colors and textures of the land + water. Inside, a monumental central stair and tapered two-story tall red cedar and steel column was designed as the residence’s entry focal point and internal landmarks, guiding the visitor’s eye to the main atrium…. and upward. Heavy wide-flange steel moment frames support the house and enable whole walls of glass. Rough, mill-finished steel contrasts refined cabinetry, stone, wood structure and defining dropped ceilings, reflecting the opener’s love of the tension between highly polished and detailed + rough, found art. Outside, A new southern “dining room” was designed for warm summer evening gatherings under a heavy-timber trellis. The focus, opposite water and island views, is a metal perforated screen. The final screen is composed of the lyrics from a Joe Cocker song of great meaning to the owners, cut from ½” marine bronze, set into dark-fired brick. “Oh My Darling, Be Home Soon….” Natural daylight and high-efficiency lighting are central players as in any gallery. From a high clerestory and extensive southern and eastern window-walls to carefully selected up-lighting, pendants, and accent fixtures, Rhodes Architecture + Light worked closely with the owner to ensure that their dark existing house would become one filled with light…. night and day. The owners, Ken and Jane, allowed us to interview them about their experience working with Rhodes Architecture + Light, and how they are feeling about living with the architecture today. What was your experience like, working with Rhodes Architecture + Light? “They worked with us because it was a remodel, an existing thing, and we had to try to make it work for all of our interests and how our family operated. They listened, and we listened, and it was a great communication back and forth.”–Jane How has the renovation changed the way you live and enjoy your home? “I remember saying to them that I want the whole floor heated because it gets so chilly down here. And we had the wood burning stove, but it was over there and now we just turn the floor heat on and we can come down. It’s cozy and nice. So we’re looking forward to winter now.”–Ken “We have 5 kids together and now a bunch of grandchildren. I wanted a marble countertop, but there’s just no way. I didn’t want it to be a place where I had to say, ‘No, no, no. Wipe up your drink, do this, do that.’ I wanted it to be a place where everybody can come with all the kids, and we make a big mess, and I can clean it up. And we can enjoy ourselves here, because that room upstairs, we almost never went in. And now we’re in there eating pizza and watching the game.” –Jane As an artist, Jane enjoyed the collaborative process. “I can’t believe it was as positive as it was. I went into it thinking it would be a great, creative, fun, collaborative thing, and I have to say, with our architects, it was. I like that creative process. I always say when I am doing a painting, it’s a series of problem solving so it wasn’t unusual for me. I am completely blown away by them and had fun with that part of it.” –Jane Architect: Tim James Rhodes RA AIA, Rhodes Architecture + Light Builder: Fairbank Construction Company Structural: Swensen Say Faget

This client was in need of her own efficient home office. Her husband works from home, and she has plans to retire and continue to work from home as well. She already had an office but it lacked the storage that she needed. She came to us with an inspiration photo that we were able to recreate for her. She wanted space for display as well as closed storage and filing drawers. We also included 2 spaces for printers with sliding drawers for easy access. The client also wanted the center to house a record player and audio system. The middle cabinets have a metal grid on the face inside of a solid panel to allow breathing room and ventilation for audio equipment. In contrast, the entry wall on the other side of the room has more open storage with shelves on both sides of the double doors. This isn’t immediately seen when entering the office so it didn’t need to be perfect and orderly like the back wall of the office. Overall, we are thrilled with the way this office turned out, and we are so happy we were able to turn our clients’ vision into a reality! Space Planning: Richard Ourso and Logan Wheeler Ramirez (Ourso Designs) Photos by Collin Richie Photography

This Hermosa Beach home showcases a beautiful interior remodel that balances minimalist design with mid-century modern elements. The open layout allows natural light to flood the space, highlighting the clean lines and neutral palette. The warm wood tones in the flooring and furniture create a cozy atmosphere, while the black pendant light and sleek dining set add a modern edge. The homeowner wanted to maintain the beachy feel while introducing more functional and contemporary pieces, including a record player for their music collection. A large potted plant and simple decor complete the look, giving the space a natural, laid-back vibe perfect for coastal living. This remodel is the result of the homeowner’s desire to combine style with practicality, offering a serene retreat just steps from the beach.

The renovation of an extensive linear residence and site facing Port Orchard waterway embraces water, greenspace and forested hillside. The home, completed this fall, serves as an artist’s studio, galleries, family space, game room, outdoor living areas and peaceful retreat. New interiors and exterior spaces and finishes, cabinetry, lighting, paving, landscape and courtyards become settings for the owner’s art + collections, three-generations of family and the wonderful colors and textures of the land + water. Inside, a monumental central stair and tapered two-story tall red cedar and steel column was designed as the residence’s entry focal point and internal landmarks, guiding the visitor’s eye to the main atrium…. and upward. Heavy wide-flange steel moment frames support the house and enable whole walls of glass. Rough, mill-finished steel contrasts refined cabinetry, stone, wood structure and defining dropped ceilings, reflecting the opener’s love of the tension between highly polished and detailed + rough, found art. Outside, A new southern “dining room” was designed for warm summer evening gatherings under a heavy-timber trellis. The focus, opposite water and island views, is a metal perforated screen. The final screen is composed of the lyrics from a Joe Cocker song of great meaning to the owners, cut from ½” marine bronze, set into dark-fired brick. “Oh My Darling, Be Home Soon….” Natural daylight and high-efficiency lighting are central players as in any gallery. From a high clerestory and extensive southern and eastern window-walls to carefully selected up-lighting, pendants, and accent fixtures, Rhodes Architecture + Light worked closely with the owner to ensure that their dark existing house would become one filled with light…. night and day. The owners, Ken and Jane, allowed us to interview them about their experience working with Rhodes Architecture + Light, and how they are feeling about living with the architecture today. What was your experience like, working with Rhodes Architecture + Light? “They worked with us because it was a remodel, an existing thing, and we had to try to make it work for all of our interests and how our family operated. They listened, and we listened, and it was a great communication back and forth.”–Jane How has the renovation changed the way you live and enjoy your home? “I remember saying to them that I want the whole floor heated because it gets so chilly down here. And we had the wood burning stove, but it was over there and now we just turn the floor heat on and we can come down. It’s cozy and nice. So we’re looking forward to winter now.”–Ken “We have 5 kids together and now a bunch of grandchildren. I wanted a marble countertop, but there’s just no way. I didn’t want it to be a place where I had to say, ‘No, no, no. Wipe up your drink, do this, do that.’ I wanted it to be a place where everybody can come with all the kids, and we make a big mess, and I can clean it up. And we can enjoy ourselves here, because that room upstairs, we almost never went in. And now we’re in there eating pizza and watching the game.” –Jane As an artist, Jane enjoyed the collaborative process. “I can’t believe it was as positive as it was. I went into it thinking it would be a great, creative, fun, collaborative thing, and I have to say, with our architects, it was. I like that creative process. I always say when I am doing a painting, it’s a series of problem solving so it wasn’t unusual for me. I am completely blown away by them and had fun with that part of it.” –Jane Architect: Tim James Rhodes RA AIA, Rhodes Architecture + Light Builder: Fairbank Construction Company Structural: Swensen Say Faget

Sheltered beneath the elegant shade of the house's patio, a captivating picket-ball court beckons enthusiasts to indulge in their passion for the sport. Light wood flooring, reminiscent of the coastal charm of Orange County, provides a firm foundation for spirited rallies, while a black trellis with a lush green wall creates a vibrant and inviting backdrop. Side seating areas, strategically positioned along the perimeter of the court, offer a comfortable respite for spectators and players alike, allowing them to cheer on the action or simply relax and soak up the idyllic ambiance.