Karuna Passive House designed by Holst Architecture and built by Hammer & Hand. This high performance home meets the world's most demanding green building certifications. Photo by Jeremy Bittermann.

Alcove shower - contemporary 3/4 gray tile gray floor, single-sink and vaulted ceiling alcove shower idea in Seattle with flat-panel cabinets, yellow cabinets, an undermount sink, a hinged shower door, white countertops and a floating vanity

Photos By Shawn Lortie Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary u-shaped light wood floor and beige floor open concept kitchen remodel in DC Metro with flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, wood countertops, stainless steel appliances, an undermount sink, two islands and white countertops

Minimalist powder room photo in Miami

Rustic French inspired back yard retreat. Multi level home with walk out basement and two level pool.
Traditional exterior home idea in Dallas

With this project, the challenge was to create a large home suitable to the contemporary needs of the client without compromising the classic, historic integrity of the Edina neighborhood. With distinct references to colonial and shingle-style architecture, the final design marries a classical rigor with the vernacular overtones of a farmhouse. Classical proportions and detailing formalize a serious yet playful arrangement of mass and form on the exterior. The white-on-white cladding calls to mind the fresh simplicity of a farmhouse, as does the long, breezy porch that stretches across the front facade. Though the site was not without its challenges, we took advantage of opportunities for a lower-level walkout and main-level rear walkout to bridge indoor and outdoor space. The interior of this home combines the tasteful language of architectural tradition with a fresh and contemporary interpretation. The open, modern plan blurs the distinction between formal and informal. Classically inspired detailing, like the enameled ceiling beams extending from one room to the next, is used to unify space and assert a pronounced architectural order. The use of natural light is also crucial in this regard; windows are strategically positioned to pull light completely through the house Dignified yet relaxed, this bright and comfortable family home is both modern and contextually appropriate in an established neighborhood known for its historical styles and traditional influence.

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

Palais Green and Copper is a gorgeous forest green wallpaper with hints of metallic copper and large-scale geometric pattern perfect for this lower level half bathroom. Featuring subtle elegance, textured substrate with a modern color palette.

Powder room with glam geometric wallpaper complimented with a vessel sink rustic vanity with riveted hardware. Counter top is quartz Viatera - Truffle. Mirror framed wall mirror. Ryan Hainey

Small elegant gray one-story mixed siding gable roof photo in Charleston

On the sunlit approach to this modern Chicago residence, the architecture immediately asserts its presence with a crisp, geometric facade clad in luminous white Trespa panels. The clean lines and seamless finish emphasize precision craftsmanship, while the rhythm of the panel joints plays in harmony with the large-scale windows below. Every element of the exterior was designed to balance visual impact with long-term durability—ensuring the home's beauty will endure through Chicago's varied seasons. Anchoring the front elevation is a generous expanse of sliding glass doors and tall fixed windows, creating a nearly uninterrupted connection between the interior and the expansive deck beyond. The transparency allows natural light to flood the home's main living spaces, while the strategic overhang and orientation ensure comfort in every season. The elevated deck, built in rich wood tones, serves as a natural extension of the living area—perfect for both quiet morning coffee rituals and lively gatherings with friends. The exterior stair, crafted in matching wood tones, elegantly bridges the upper and lower outdoor spaces, inviting movement between levels with ease. This intentional layering of indoor and outdoor living reflects the home's core philosophy: every square foot should be both beautiful and functional. For a family that values connection—to each other, to nature, and to design—this home offers an environment that supports daily life while inspiring it. From its modern silhouette to its tactile material palette, this is more than a facade—it's the architectural handshake that welcomes you home.

Concrete can be made to look like any substance. Tile, stone, wood, brick, etc. With unlimited color options, Ky-Kan Coatings can transform any room in your home or business using lightweight, beautiful concrete.

Gorgeous master bath with dramatic retro "wave" tile. Peak Photography
Example of a 1950s bathroom design in Los Angeles

This multistory Craftsman staircase brings warmth and simplicity to the home. Clean horizontal lines define the design, from the rectangular wood treads to the custom newels, balusters, and handrail system. These lines create a warm open flow that connects each level with natural elegance and timeless simplicity. 1976-2025 © Century Stair Company

Door #10 FP3190 Flat 3 Panel Interior Door with Farmhouse Sticking Solid Poplar stiles and rails MDF panels Painted White 1 x 4 door casing 1 x 6 baseboard Bravura 336B door knob Call us for a quote on your door project 419-684-9582 Visit https://www.door.cc

G001 Vienna Stainless Steel Storage Cabinets Europa followed the British design style and adds new American design techniques. Fusion of two cultures, reflecting the rigorous British and American creators think the American Modern yet classic British style. Estonian birch solid wood door, 304 rosy gold stainless steel cabinet, premium hardware, a pen written noble temperament, never rigid, each style, are the traditional salute, it is a new understanding of human nature and assertive. This is stainless steel kitchen cabinet. 1.environmental friendly 2.high capacity ,convenient for article reserves 3.fashion style very hot sale 4.anti-rust,dust and damp ,and retain freshness 5. the thick of stainless steel is 0.6mm, countertop is 1.2mm 6.stainless steel kitchen cabinet will not deformation in using process 7.top-level after-sales service 8.customise design is acceptable 9.modular kitchen cabinet ,save your freight cost 10.waterproof, fireproof. Specifications: All cabinet materials, stainless steel door materials of Fadior , even small screws are all made by food grade 304 stainless steel . In our daily life, all used stainless steel related to food , such as: stainless steel cutlery stainless steel cookware,stainless steel kitchen ware of home, hotel and restaurant as well as stainless steel used in the manufacture of food processing equipment, etc., must obey national standards of food grade 304 stainless steel, is consistent with health standards. All cabinet materials of Fadior are wisely made by food grade 304 stainles steel. It completely stopped the formaldehyde releasing and protected the health from the formaldehyde. In addition, FADIOR initiated the world's first one piece seamless cabinet process, using several holes bending technology, forming one unit, cabinets achieved perfect 90 degree straight edge. The weld point from the front can not be seen and it can enjoy extravagant quality by half a century. 1.Custom-made product 2.Protective environment design 3.Life time durable 4.Easily cleaning 5.No Welding connection 6.Easy to install

Custom Surface Solutions (www.css-tile.com) - Owner Craig Thompson (512) 430-1215. This project shows the remodel of a small 1950's vintage home master bathroom. 8"" x 18" Calcutta gold marble tile was used on the shower walls and floor wall base and ceramic gray penny tile on the floor. Shower includes curbless pan / floor, dual shower boxes, frameless glass slider, trough duel fixture sink and chrome fixtures.

Design Consultant Jeff Doubét is the author of Creating Spanish Style Homes: Before & After – Techniques – Designs – Insights. The 240 page “Design Consultation in a Book” is now available. Please visit SantaBarbaraHomeDesigner.com for more info. Jeff Doubét specializes in Santa Barbara style home and landscape designs. To learn more info about the variety of custom design services I offer, please visit SantaBarbaraHomeDesigner.com Jeff Doubét is the Founder of Santa Barbara Home Design - a design studio based in Santa Barbara, California USA.

Custom Surface Solutions (www.css-tile.com) - Owner Craig Thompson (512) 430-1215. This project shows new 12 x 24 tile installed vertically with offset layout pattern on wall and floor. Includes shower box with linear glass accent tile back and vertical glass accent band. Tile edges are finished with Schluter Jolly satin aluminum profile edge trim.