A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting. The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet. Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background. The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

A clean, transitional home design. This home focuses on ample and open living spaces for the family, as well as impressive areas for hosting family and friends. The quality of materials chosen, combined with simple and understated lines throughout, creates a perfect canvas for this family’s life. Contrasting whites, blacks, and greys create a dramatic backdrop for an active and loving lifestyle.

In the heart of Harpenden, a family sought to create a kitchen that was more than a cooking space; they wanted a multifunctional area tailored to their busy lifestyle. The goal was to combine functionality with a welcoming atmosphere for family and work-related activities. For this project, the chosen range was Nobilia 945 Easytouch combined with 966 Lacquered Laminate in a stunning Fjord Blue Ultra Matt finish. The worktops, supplied by Algarve Granite, were 12mm CRL Nero Natural CER104N ceramic with a Grey mirror finish, adding a sleek and contemporary edge to the kitchen. The inclusion of Siemens, Bora, Blanco, and Quooker appliances ensured the kitchen was equipped with the latest in kitchen technology, blending functionality and style seamlessly. The kitchen was designed with dedicated areas to cater to their lifestyle - a walk-in larder and large utility area were essential elements, providing ample storage and workspace. The final result is a Fjord Blue Kitchen that encapsulates the essence of modern living. The combination of Nobilia’s sleek design with practical features like the walk-in larder and high-quality appliances has created a space that meets the family’s needs and enhances their daily life.

The T40 Features: 1. SPACIOUS SHALLOW END BENCH SEAT Want to take a break from the action and hang out with some friends? This seating area is properly sized to accommodate the whole family. 2. LARGE SHALLOW END FOR SOCIALIZING AND PLAY The problem with most deep end pools is the tiny shallow end, which is where most people gather. The T40 shallow end is 30% larger than the industry standard deep end pool. 3. OPEN POOL INTERIOR Want plenty of room to float and frolic? The rectangular design of the T40 provides ample room for all of your pool activities. 4. DEEP END SEATS / EXIT POINTS When using deep end pools, people love to jump in, exit, and repeat. The deep end seats of the T40 provide a place to get in and out, as well as take a rest. 5. MASSIVE 8' 6" DEEP END Looking for lots of water? The T40 is 6" deeper than most of the fiberglass deep end pools on the market. 6. AUTOMATIC COVER FRIENDLY The rectangular design of the T40 allows cover tracks to be hidden beneath the pool coping, protecting them and keeping them out of sight. This customer has their Backyard Oasis furnished with both patio furniture, tables and loungers in addition to the shrubbery that ascetically hides the Equipment Pad. Their Pool is trimmed with Marmiro Stone Travertine Coping. It has a Slide, Basketball Hoop, Ledge Lounger Jets, and a Handicap Accessible entry point.

Waterstone Wheel faucet, The Galley bar workstation, quartzite full splash and mitered floating shelf. THE SETUP This project was a natural extension of a nearby kitchen remodel, emphasizing seamless integration and enhanced functionality. By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, we transformed a previously underutilized space into a central hub for both daily living and vibrant social gatherings. This transformation capitalized on the dining room’s potential, turning it from a cluttered storage area to a key entertaining space. Design Objectives: Foster an open-air design that harmonizes with the adjacent kitchen, enhancing the flow of both spaces. Infuse the dining room with design elements that reflect the client’s dynamic personality and make it ideal for large gatherings. Integrate a multifunctional wet bar to elevate the room’s utility and entertainment capacity. Design Challenges: Rerouting necessary HVAC ductwork due to the removal of the wall shared with the kitchen. Relocating essential appliances such as a fridge/freezer and double oven without compromising the room’s aesthetic. Incorporating bar-specific appliances in a way that avoids a commercial appearance. Retaining the client’s large, marble dining table while maintaining a cohesive design that aligns with the new kitchen aesthetics. Introducing plumbing into a space previously devoid of such infrastructure. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Added a secondary HVAC unit on the upper floor and adjusted the ductwork to accommodate the open layout. Strategically relocated the fridge/freezer to a more functional location in the kitchen and substituted the double oven with an oven/steam oven combination, placed near the kitchen for accessibility yet distanced from heavy traffic areas. Employed wood paneling extensively along the new bar/appliance wall, concealing most appliances while tastefully displaying essential ones. The wall now features a sophisticated ensemble of a wine dispenser, wine fridge, ice maker, refrigerator drawers, and the new oven duo. Meticulously designed the bar/appliance wall to parallel the large marble dining table, ensuring it complemented the table’s grandeur while enhancing functionality. The wall is not only aesthetically aligned with the kitchen’s new look but also offers ample counter space to support dining and social activities at the table. Installed new plumbing lines to support the wet bar and sink installation, ensuring all new fixtures were fully operational and aesthetically integrated into the design without disrupting the room’s overall style. The new dining room/wet bar has quickly become the centerpiece of the home, captivating guests upon entry and drawing them into its stylish and inviting ambiance. Designed for versatility, it excels in hosting both intimate dinners and large-scale gatherings. The client is thrilled with this transformation, which not only meets but surpasses her expectations for a space that combines everyday functionality with exceptional hosting capabilities.

Split Level 1970 home of a young and active family of four. The main public spaces in this home were remodeled to create a fresh, clean look. The Jack + Mare demo'd the kitchen and dining room down to studs and removed the wall between the kitchen/dining and living room to create an open concept space with a clean and fresh new kitchen and dining with ample storage. Now the family can all be together and enjoy one another's company even if mom or dad is busy in the kitchen prepping the next meal. The custom white cabinets and the blue accent island (and walls) really give a nice clean and fun feel to the space. The island has a gorgeous local solid slab of wood on top. A local artisan salvaged and milled up the big leaf maple for this project. In fact, the tree was from the University of Portland's campus located right where the client once rode the bus to school when she was a child. So it's an extra special custom piece! (fun fact: there is a bullet lodged in the wood that is visible...we estimate it was shot into the tree 30-35 years ago!) The 'public' spaces were given a brand new waterproof luxury vinyl wide plank tile. With 2 young daughters, a large golden retriever and elderly cat, the durable floor was a must. project scope at quick glance: - demo'd and rebuild kitchen and dining room. - removed wall separating kitchen/dining and living room - removed carpet and installed new flooring in public spaces - removed stair carpet and gave fresh black and white paint - painted all public spaces - new hallway doorknob harware - all new LED lighting (kitchen, dining, living room and hallway) Jason Quigley Photography

Spanning a generous footprint, this terraced outdoor living space offers the perfect setting for the entire family to effortlessly bring their indoor activities outside. A fully equipped outdoor kitchen and spacious dining area provide ample room for leisurely meals to be enjoyed throughout long summer days. Above the oversized fireplace, an all-weather TV creates an ideal spot for watching the big game and cheering on their favorite teams. For those seeking a quieter retreat, just a few steps down leads to a cozy firepit, where conversations flow freely amidst the warmth of the fire and the beauty of surrounding pollinator gardens

A project collaboration with Mekastin Interiors, this project transforms a modest brick bungalow into a modern, family-oriented home that embraces both style and function. Designed for a rural property in Madawaska Valley, our clients requested a sleek, low-maintenance exterior that reflects the rural surroundings, which include a pine forest behind the house and a scenic duck pond. To honour these natural elements, the design incorporates wood timber and lattice accents, creating a balance of modern and organic materials. The layout is crafted with the family’s dynamic lifestyle in mind, offering ample spaces for both active living and quiet moments. The home features a spacious open-concept living room, dining room, and kitchen with high ceilings and large windows, designed to promote family gatherings and entertaining. The new kitchen, equipped with an island and stool seating, flows effortlessly into the great room, which includes a fireplace with a concrete slab surround and a timber mantel, tying together modern and natural design elements. The home expansion includes a larger master ensuite, an additional bedroom, and a new study for a quiet space. Practical additions such as a powder room, mudroom, large pantry, and a modern kitchen further enhance the home’s functionality. A large screened porch off the dining room and kitchen offers an extended area for entertaining guests, while a wrap-around deck with a covered section provides protection from the summer sun. The design also includes a new oversized, attached two-car garage, perfect for storing sports equipment and ensuring easy access to the home. This thoughtful renovation successfully transforms the bungalow into a stylish, functional family home that reflects both the clients’ vision and the beauty of their rural setting.

The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

Spanning a generous footprint, this terraced outdoor living space offers the perfect setting for the entire family to effortlessly bring their indoor activities outside. A fully equipped outdoor kitchen and spacious dining area provide ample room for leisurely meals to be enjoyed throughout long summer days. Above the oversized fireplace, an all-weather TV creates an ideal spot for watching the big game and cheering on their favorite teams. For those seeking a quieter retreat, just a few steps down leads to a cozy firepit, where conversations flow freely amidst the warmth of the fire and the beauty of surrounding pollinator gardens

In the heart of Harpenden, a family sought to create a kitchen that was more than a cooking space; they wanted a multifunctional area tailored to their busy lifestyle. The goal was to combine functionality with a welcoming atmosphere for family and work-related activities. For this project, the chosen range was Nobilia 945 Easytouch combined with 966 Lacquered Laminate in a stunning Fjord Blue Ultra Matt finish. The worktops, supplied by Algarve Granite, were 12mm CRL Nero Natural CER104N ceramic with a Grey mirror finish, adding a sleek and contemporary edge to the kitchen. The inclusion of Siemens, Bora, Blanco, and Quooker appliances ensured the kitchen was equipped with the latest in kitchen technology, blending functionality and style seamlessly. The kitchen was designed with dedicated areas to cater to their lifestyle - a walk-in larder and large utility area were essential elements, providing ample storage and workspace. The final result is a Fjord Blue Kitchen that encapsulates the essence of modern living. The combination of Nobilia’s sleek design with practical features like the walk-in larder and high-quality appliances has created a space that meets the family’s needs and enhances their daily life.

With our client being a baker, having a beautiful new kitchen that is also functional was very important. The original kitchen cabinets and the adjoining wall to the dining room were removed, creating a large, open space filled with natural light. We installed Wellborn white shaker-style cabinets, light natural Quartzite countertops, and Monogram stainless steel appliances to transform the kitchen into a bright, inviting area for the whole family to enjoy. To ensure the space stays well-lit at all times, we incorporated multiple ceiling lights, under-cabinet lighting, motion-activated toe-kick lighting, and a custom island fixture, providing ample brightness day or night. The clients desired enough countertop space to accommodate several cookie sheets at one time, as well as seating for five. The oversized island met both needs, with a thoughtfully designed layout that maximized the available space. The new slate flooring seamlessly blended the kitchen with the existing white oak floors, while fresh paint colors completed the cohesive and inviting palette.

The rich cherry cabinets and creamy natural stone create a traditional statement, while maintaining a light and bright overall feel. The stacked cabinets have glass inserts at the top which allows the cabinets to extend to the ceiling without feeling top heavy. The marble backsplash is complimented by glass tile accents that add to the space without overwhelming it. The glass brings a bit of whimsy to the overall traditional space. The large windows and patio doors bring in a great presence of natural light and take advantage of the sweeping ocean views. High end appliances, including a wine cooler and an induction cook top allow this family to cook with ease. Ample storage and counter space allow for large gatherings of family and friends, or just a quiet evening at home.

An open kitchen concept with a large island and breakfast bar create inviting and functional space for all of life's activities. The large island not only provides generous workspace but also ample storage solutions and additional appliance placement. The design is enhanced by the granite countertops, black island and white raised panel cabinetry, built-in shelving, hand scraped hickory hardwood flooring, recessed lighting, and island chandelier.

THE SETUP This project was a natural extension of a nearby kitchen remodel, emphasizing seamless integration and enhanced functionality. By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, we transformed a previously underutilized space into a central hub for both daily living and vibrant social gatherings. This transformation capitalized on the dining room’s potential, turning it from a cluttered storage area to a key entertaining space. Design Objectives: Foster an open-air design that harmonizes with the adjacent kitchen, enhancing the flow of both spaces. Infuse the dining room with design elements that reflect the client’s dynamic personality and make it ideal for large gatherings. Integrate a multifunctional wet bar to elevate the room’s utility and entertainment capacity. Design Challenges: Rerouting necessary HVAC ductwork due to the removal of the wall shared with the kitchen. Relocating essential appliances such as a fridge/freezer and double oven without compromising the room’s aesthetic. Incorporating bar-specific appliances in a way that avoids a commercial appearance. Retaining the client’s large, marble dining table while maintaining a cohesive design that aligns with the new kitchen aesthetics. Introducing plumbing into a space previously devoid of such infrastructure. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Added a secondary HVAC unit on the upper floor and adjusted the ductwork to accommodate the open layout. Strategically relocated the fridge/freezer to a more functional location in the kitchen and substituted the double oven with an oven/steam oven combination, placed near the kitchen for accessibility yet distanced from heavy traffic areas. Employed wood paneling extensively along the new bar/appliance wall, concealing most appliances while tastefully displaying essential ones. The wall now features a sophisticated ensemble of a wine dispenser, wine fridge, ice maker, refrigerator drawers, and the new oven duo. Meticulously designed the bar/appliance wall to parallel the large marble dining table, ensuring it complemented the table’s grandeur while enhancing functionality. The wall is not only aesthetically aligned with the kitchen’s new look but also offers ample counter space to support dining and social activities at the table. Installed new plumbing lines to support the wet bar and sink installation, ensuring all new fixtures were fully operational and aesthetically integrated into the design without disrupting the room’s overall style. The new dining room/wet bar has quickly become the centerpiece of the home, captivating guests upon entry and drawing them into its stylish and inviting ambiance. Designed for versatility, it excels in hosting both intimate dinners and large-scale gatherings. The client is thrilled with this transformation, which not only meets but surpasses her expectations for a space that combines everyday functionality with exceptional hosting capabilities.

Introducing a stunning custom-built home situated at Leslie Street and Sheppard Avenue East in North York. Completed in 2023, this impressive 3,900-square-foot residence features four spacious bedrooms, ideal for families seeking modern luxury. Design and Features: This contemporary home boasts an elegant façade and large windows that fill the interior with natural light. The open-concept living area seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and lounge spaces, creating a perfect environment for entertaining. The chef’s kitchen is equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample counter space. Each bedroom is generously sized, with the master suite featuring a luxurious en-suite bathroom and a walk-in closet. The additional bedrooms offer versatility for guests or a home office. Outdoor Living and Efficiency: The walkout basement leads to a beautifully landscaped backyard, ideal for outdoor gatherings and family activities. Built with energy efficiency in mind, this home features modern insulation and energy-efficient systems, which contribute to lower utility costs. In summary, the custom home at Leslie Street and Sheppard Avenue East combines luxury and practicality in a prime North York location, perfect for today’s discerning homeowners. For more details, visit Benestone Construction - www.benestone.com

This traditional home underwent a tasteful renovation that created a beautiful dwelling for this family. After the remodel was completed, the owners turned their attention to the natural surroundings. The existing fieldstone walls were softened with new plantings that include seasonal bulb displays. Tired foundation shrubs were removed and replaced. Perennials with diverse seasonal interest line the front of the house. In the back of the house, a contemporary swimming pool cools the active family off. Surrounded by Hornbeam trees, the sleek lines of the pool create a clean, contemporary space that accentuates the newly designed home. The bluestone patio gives the family ample space to lounge, grill, and relax together by the gas fire pit. Photos by Hannah Robson

A clean, transitional home design. This home focuses on ample and open living spaces for the family, as well as impressive areas for hosting family and friends. The quality of materials chosen, combined with simple and understated lines throughout, creates a perfect canvas for this family’s life. Contrasting whites, blacks, and greys create a dramatic backdrop for an active and loving lifestyle.

A large tree and various plantings soften this strong landscape design while providing ample room for activities.
Inspiration for an eclectic landscaping in San Diego.