Winner of the 2018 Tour of Homes Best Remodel, this whole house re-design of a 1963 Bennet & Johnson mid-century raised ranch home is a beautiful example of the magic we can weave through the application of more sustainable modern design principles to existing spaces. We worked closely with our client on extensive updates to create a modernized MCM gem. Extensive alterations include: - a completely redesigned floor plan to promote a more intuitive flow throughout - vaulted the ceilings over the great room to create an amazing entrance and feeling of inspired openness - redesigned entry and driveway to be more inviting and welcoming as well as to experientially set the mid-century modern stage - the removal of a visually disruptive load bearing central wall and chimney system that formerly partitioned the homes’ entry, dining, kitchen and living rooms from each other - added clerestory windows above the new kitchen to accentuate the new vaulted ceiling line and create a greater visual continuation of indoor to outdoor space - drastically increased the access to natural light by increasing window sizes and opening up the floor plan - placed natural wood elements throughout to provide a calming palette and cohesive Pacific Northwest feel - incorporated Universal Design principles to make the home Aging In Place ready with wide hallways and accessible spaces, including single-floor living if needed - moved and completely redesigned the stairway to work for the home’s occupants and be a part of the cohesive design aesthetic - mixed custom tile layouts with more traditional tiling to create fun and playful visual experiences - custom designed and sourced MCM specific elements such as the entry screen, cabinetry and lighting - development of the downstairs for potential future use by an assisted living caretaker - energy efficiency upgrades seamlessly woven in with much improved insulation, ductless mini splits and solar gain

Winner of the 2018 Tour of Homes Best Remodel, this whole house re-design of a 1963 Bennet & Johnson mid-century raised ranch home is a beautiful example of the magic we can weave through the application of more sustainable modern design principles to existing spaces. We worked closely with our client on extensive updates to create a modernized MCM gem. Extensive alterations include: - a completely redesigned floor plan to promote a more intuitive flow throughout - vaulted the ceilings over the great room to create an amazing entrance and feeling of inspired openness - redesigned entry and driveway to be more inviting and welcoming as well as to experientially set the mid-century modern stage - the removal of a visually disruptive load bearing central wall and chimney system that formerly partitioned the homes’ entry, dining, kitchen and living rooms from each other - added clerestory windows above the new kitchen to accentuate the new vaulted ceiling line and create a greater visual continuation of indoor to outdoor space - drastically increased the access to natural light by increasing window sizes and opening up the floor plan - placed natural wood elements throughout to provide a calming palette and cohesive Pacific Northwest feel - incorporated Universal Design principles to make the home Aging In Place ready with wide hallways and accessible spaces, including single-floor living if needed - moved and completely redesigned the stairway to work for the home’s occupants and be a part of the cohesive design aesthetic - mixed custom tile layouts with more traditional tiling to create fun and playful visual experiences - custom designed and sourced MCM specific elements such as the entry screen, cabinetry and lighting - development of the downstairs for potential future use by an assisted living caretaker - energy efficiency upgrades seamlessly woven in with much improved insulation, ductless mini splits and solar gain

gcNatural, calm, family-centered. This client knew what she wanted and just needed some assistance getting there. Susan helped her out with imagery and product research, a first floor furniture plan and several working meetings to nail down the built-in functionality and look in the dining-room-turned-office/family drop-zone. Cork floors installed throughout give the home a warm and eco-friendly foundation. Pine-cones, tree trunk cookies, plants and lots of unstained wood make the family's focus on nature clear. The result: a beautiful and light-filled but relaxed and practical family space. Carpenter/Contractor: Sam Dennis From the client: We hired Susan to assist with a downstairs remodel. She brings a personalization that feels like getting advice from a family member at the same time adding helpful details of her industry knowledge. Her flexibly in work style allows her to come with plans fully researched and developed or to advise, plan and draw on the spot. She has been willing to do as much as we needed or to let us roll with our own ideas and time frame and consult with her as needed.

After purchasing their first home, a 3-bedroom 2 1/2 bathroom condo unit in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, our clients came to us for help with updating the 1990s era interiors. On our first visit, we saw lots of golden oak - cabinets, floors, windows, trim. We started by tearing out the inexpensive developer-grade finishes and replacing them with quality materials capable of withstanding the test of time. We designed custom cabinetry with interior fittings tailored to the particular needs of our client and assisted with the selection of all the interior finishes. Our clients love their new home and the fact that it's interiors are as stylish as their new neighborhood.

After purchasing their first home, a 3-bedroom 2 1/2 bathroom condo unit in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, our clients came to us for help with updating the 1990s era interiors. On our first visit, we saw lots of golden oak - cabinets, floors, windows, trim. We started by tearing out the inexpensive developer-grade finishes and replacing them with quality materials capable of withstanding the test of time. We designed custom cabinetry with interior fittings tailored to the particular needs of our client and assisted with the selection of all the interior finishes. Our clients love their new home and the fact that it's interiors are as stylish as their new neighborhood.

A Real Splash made with Encaustic Mosaic Tiles Decorative Encaustic wall tile is perfectly selected for a full wall splash in this kitchen remodel. Creating a country chic design! Anya Blanco porcelain tiles is a sophisticated patchwork look that adds charm and warmth to any design. In addition, this mosaic porcelain tiles have a tone-on-tone quality. Warm grey’s, white’s and soft muted black’s elegantly surround the stove and follow through the perimeter of the cabinets and quartz countertops. In addition, Satin Stainless Steele slide in range, hood, and Pot filler perfectly accent the mosaic tiles. Encaustic Mosaic Tile backsplash complete in Client Project Kitchen Update ~ Thank you for sharing! Kitchen Planning & Renovations When planning a kitchen renovation, start with a kitchen designer to assist in organizing, planning. Designers assist in choosing the right cabinets, countertops, kitchen backsplash, tile, flooring and so much more. Moreover, we have streamlined kitchen planning and design by consolidating the design process with material selection all in one place. Our designer will work with you to develop a kitchen design. Whether choosing a country charm chic encaustic wall tile or one of our many other mosaics. Other Design Applications Look at another design application using this mosaic in a client bathroom remodel. In which the Encaustic Tiles are stunning against this subway tile shower/bathtub surround.

A Real Splash made with Encaustic Mosaic Tiles Decorative Encaustic wall tile is perfectly selected for a full wall splash in this kitchen remodel. Creating a country chic design! Anya Blanco porcelain tiles is a sophisticated patchwork look that adds charm and warmth to any design. In addition, this mosaic porcelain tiles have a tone-on-tone quality. Warm grey’s, white’s and soft muted black’s elegantly surround the stove and follow through the perimeter of the cabinets and quartz countertops. In addition, Satin Stainless Steele slide in range, hood, and Pot filler perfectly accent the mosaic tiles. Encaustic Mosaic Tile backsplash complete in Client Project Kitchen Update ~ Thank you for sharing! Kitchen Planning & Renovations When planning a kitchen renovation, start with a kitchen designer to assist in organizing, planning. Designers assist in choosing the right cabinets, countertops, kitchen backsplash, tile, flooring and so much more. Moreover, we have streamlined kitchen planning and design by consolidating the design process with material selection all in one place. Our designer will work with you to develop a kitchen design. Whether choosing a country charm chic encaustic wall tile or one of our many other mosaics. Other Design Applications Look at another design application using this mosaic in a client bathroom remodel. In which the Encaustic Tiles are stunning against this subway tile shower/bathtub surround.

Natural, calm, family-centered. This client knew what she wanted and just needed some assistance getting there. Susan helped her out with imagery and product research, a first floor furniture plan and several working meetings to nail down the built-in functionality and look in the dining-room-turned-office/family drop-zone. Cork floors installed throughout give the home a warm and eco-friendly foundation. Pine-cones, tree trunk cookies, plants and lots of unstained wood make the family's focus on nature clear. The result: a beautiful and light-filled but relaxed and practical family space. Carpenter/Contractor: Sam Dennis From the client: We hired Susan to assist with a downstairs remodel. She brings a personalization that feels like getting advice from a family member at the same time adding helpful details of her industry knowledge. Her flexibly in work style allows her to come with plans fully researched and developed or to advise, plan and draw on the spot. She has been willing to do as much as we needed or to let us roll with our own ideas and time frame and consult with her as needed.

A Real Splash made with Encaustic Mosaic Tiles Decorative Encaustic wall tile is perfectly selected for a full wall splash in this kitchen remodel. Creating a country chic design! Anya Blanco porcelain tiles is a sophisticated patchwork look that adds charm and warmth to any design. In addition, this mosaic porcelain tiles have a tone-on-tone quality. Warm grey’s, white’s and soft muted black’s elegantly surround the stove and follow through the perimeter of the cabinets and quartz countertops. In addition, Satin Stainless Steele slide in range, hood, and Pot filler perfectly accent the mosaic tiles. Encaustic Mosaic Tile backsplash complete in Client Project Kitchen Update ~ Thank you for sharing! Kitchen Planning & Renovations When planning a kitchen renovation, start with a kitchen designer to assist in organizing, planning. Designers assist in choosing the right cabinets, countertops, kitchen backsplash, tile, flooring and so much more. Moreover, we have streamlined kitchen planning and design by consolidating the design process with material selection all in one place. Our designer will work with you to develop a kitchen design. Whether choosing a country charm chic encaustic wall tile or one of our many other mosaics. Other Design Applications Look at another design application using this mosaic in a client bathroom remodel. In which the Encaustic Tiles are stunning against this subway tile shower/bathtub surround.

A Real Splash made with Encaustic Mosaic Tiles Decorative Encaustic wall tile is perfectly selected for a full wall splash in this kitchen remodel. Creating a country chic design! Anya Blanco porcelain tiles is a sophisticated patchwork look that adds charm and warmth to any design. In addition, this mosaic porcelain tiles have a tone-on-tone quality. Warm grey’s, white’s and soft muted black’s elegantly surround the stove and follow through the perimeter of the cabinets and quartz countertops. In addition, Satin Stainless Steele slide in range, hood, and Pot filler perfectly accent the mosaic tiles. Encaustic Mosaic Tile backsplash complete in Client Project Kitchen Update ~ Thank you for sharing! Kitchen Planning & Renovations When planning a kitchen renovation, start with a kitchen designer to assist in organizing, planning. Designers assist in choosing the right cabinets, countertops, kitchen backsplash, tile, flooring and so much more. Moreover, we have streamlined kitchen planning and design by consolidating the design process with material selection all in one place. Our designer will work with you to develop a kitchen design. Whether choosing a country charm chic encaustic wall tile or one of our many other mosaics. Other Design Applications Look at another design application using this mosaic in a client bathroom remodel. In which the Encaustic Tiles are stunning against this subway tile shower/bathtub surround.

After purchasing their first home, a 3-bedroom 2 1/2 bathroom condo unit in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, our clients came to us for help with updating the 1990s era interiors. On our first visit, we saw lots of golden oak - cabinets, floors, windows, trim. We started by tearing out the inexpensive developer-grade finishes and replacing them with quality materials capable of withstanding the test of time. We designed custom cabinetry with interior fittings tailored to the particular needs of our client and assisted with the selection of all the interior finishes. Our clients love their new home and the fact that it's interiors are as stylish as their new neighborhood.

Winner of the 2018 Tour of Homes Best Remodel, this whole house re-design of a 1963 Bennet & Johnson mid-century raised ranch home is a beautiful example of the magic we can weave through the application of more sustainable modern design principles to existing spaces. We worked closely with our client on extensive updates to create a modernized MCM gem. Extensive alterations include: - a completely redesigned floor plan to promote a more intuitive flow throughout - vaulted the ceilings over the great room to create an amazing entrance and feeling of inspired openness - redesigned entry and driveway to be more inviting and welcoming as well as to experientially set the mid-century modern stage - the removal of a visually disruptive load bearing central wall and chimney system that formerly partitioned the homes’ entry, dining, kitchen and living rooms from each other - added clerestory windows above the new kitchen to accentuate the new vaulted ceiling line and create a greater visual continuation of indoor to outdoor space - drastically increased the access to natural light by increasing window sizes and opening up the floor plan - placed natural wood elements throughout to provide a calming palette and cohesive Pacific Northwest feel - incorporated Universal Design principles to make the home Aging In Place ready with wide hallways and accessible spaces, including single-floor living if needed - moved and completely redesigned the stairway to work for the home’s occupants and be a part of the cohesive design aesthetic - mixed custom tile layouts with more traditional tiling to create fun and playful visual experiences - custom designed and sourced MCM specific elements such as the entry screen, cabinetry and lighting - development of the downstairs for potential future use by an assisted living caretaker - energy efficiency upgrades seamlessly woven in with much improved insulation, ductless mini splits and solar gain

The Owners of a home that had been consumed by the moving dunes of Lake Michigan wanted a home that would not only stand the test of aesthetic time, but survive the vicissitudes of the environment. With the assistance of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as well as the consulting civil engineer and the City of Grand Haven Zoning Department, a soil stabilization site plan was developed based on raising the new home’s main floor elevation by almost three feet, implementing erosion studies, screen walls and planting indigenous, drought tolerant xeriscaping. The screen walls, as well as the low profile of the home and the use of sand trapping marrum beachgrass all help to create a wind shadow buffer around the home and reduce blowing sand erosion and accretion. The Owners wanted to minimize the stylistic baggage which consumes most “cottage” residences, and with the Architect created a home with simple lines focused on the view and the natural environment. Sustainable energy requirements on a budget directed the design decisions regarding the SIPs panel insulation, energy systems, roof shading, other insulation systems, lighting and detailing. Easily constructed and linear, the home harkens back to mid century modern pavilions with present day environmental sensitivities and harmony with the site. James Yochum

Stunning Showcase Kitchen Remodel Acrylic Cabinetry is the stunning choice in this complete kitchen remodel. A high gloss finish that is smooth and highly reflective on these white acrylic cabinets is perfect. In addition, satin finishes for cabinet hardware including a satin stainless steel apron sink is breathtaking. In addition, to the stainless-steel appliances. The client wanted to use contrasting grey cabinetry for the island. Moreover, the island top and countertops is finished with a quartz marble-look. The island quartz countertops extend into a waterfall on both sides of the island. In essence, a dark teal picket mosaic was used for the kitchen backsplash running horizontally through the cabinets and picked up in the island. Finally, this kitchen has an abundant amount of storage with floor to ceiling cabinets. This kitchen is a remarkable showcase. Client testimony is especially appreciated “We had a great experience. FCD redid our kitchen – taking it from the 1980s to the 2020s! They were professional and responsive throughout the process. The contractor did an amazing job. Quick and painless. Beautiful work!“ Kitchen cabinetry, cabinet hardware, countertops, sink, and backsplash complete in Client Project Kitchen Update ~ Thank you for sharing! Kitchen Planning & Renovations When planning a kitchen renovation, start with a kitchen designer to assist in organizing, planning. Designers assist in choosing the right cabinets, countertops, kitchen backsplash, tile, and flooring. In addition, remember to purchase your kitchen cabinet hardware for those finishing touches. Moreover, we have streamlined kitchen planning and design by consolidating the design process with material selection all in one place. Our designer will work with you to develop a kitchen design.

I built this on my property for my aging father who has some health issues. Handicap accessibility was a factor in design. His dream has always been to try retire to a cabin in the woods. This is what he got. It is a 1 bedroom, 1 bath with a great room. It is 600 sqft of AC space. The footprint is 40' x 26' overall. The site was the former home of our pig pen. I only had to take 1 tree to make this work and I planted 3 in its place. The axis is set from root ball to root ball. The rear center is aligned with mean sunset and is visible across a wetland. The goal was to make the home feel like it was floating in the palms. The geometry had to simple and I didn't want it feeling heavy on the land so I cantilevered the structure beyond exposed foundation walls. My barn is nearby and it features old 1950's "S" corrugated metal panel walls. I used the same panel profile for my siding. I ran it vertical to math the barn, but also to balance the length of the structure and stretch the high point into the canopy, visually. The wood is all Southern Yellow Pine. This material came from clearing at the Babcock Ranch Development site. I ran it through the structure, end to end and horizontally, to create a seamless feel and to stretch the space. It worked. It feels MUCH bigger than it is. I milled the material to specific sizes in specific areas to create precise alignments. Floor starters align with base. Wall tops adjoin ceiling starters to create the illusion of a seamless board. All light fixtures, HVAC supports, cabinets, switches, outlets, are set specifically to wood joints. The front and rear porch wood has three different milling profiles so the hypotenuse on the ceilings, align with the walls, and yield an aligned deck board below. Yes, I over did it. It is spectacular in its detailing. That's the benefit of small spaces. Concrete counters and IKEA cabinets round out the conversation. For those who could not live in a tiny house, I offer the Tiny-ish House. Photos by Ryan Gamma Staging by iStage Homes Design assistance by Jimmy Thornton

Inspiration for a contemporary kitchen remodel in Orlando

What is an ADU: Accessory Dwelling Units: An accessory dwelling unit, usually just called an ADU, is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. The term “accessory dwelling unit” is a institutional-sounding name, but it’s the most commonly-used term across the country to describe this type of housing. While the full name is a mouthful, the shorthand “ADU” is better. ADUs vary in their physical form quite a bit, as there are detached ADU, attached ADU, second story ADU (above garage or work shop), addition ADU, internal ADU. IMPORTANT: There’s simply too few permitted ADUs to make a real difference in the housing stock. But, even if they aren’t going to solve all a city’s problems, they may help homeowners solve some of their problems. The most common motivation for ADU development is rental income potential, followed by the prospect of flexible living space for multigenerational households. We at FIDELITY GENERAL CONTRACTORS, providing a single point of contact to homeowners interested in this product, from conceptual stage including plans, city legwork, project managing of the construction stage including assistance with material purchase and other coordination, all the way to completion. (this project showcases a detached ADU, 400 SQ.)

After purchasing their first home, a 3-bedroom 2 1/2 bathroom condo unit in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, our clients came to us for help with updating the 1990s era interiors. On our first visit, we saw lots of golden oak - cabinets, floors, windows, trim. We started by tearing out the inexpensive developer-grade finishes and replacing them with quality materials capable of withstanding the test of time. We designed custom cabinetry with interior fittings tailored to the particular needs of our client and assisted with the selection of all the interior finishes. Our clients love their new home and the fact that it's interiors are as stylish as their new neighborhood.

I built this on my property for my aging father who has some health issues. Handicap accessibility was a factor in design. His dream has always been to try retire to a cabin in the woods. This is what he got. It is a 1 bedroom, 1 bath with a great room. It is 600 sqft of AC space. The footprint is 40' x 26' overall. The site was the former home of our pig pen. I only had to take 1 tree to make this work and I planted 3 in its place. The axis is set from root ball to root ball. The rear center is aligned with mean sunset and is visible across a wetland. The goal was to make the home feel like it was floating in the palms. The geometry had to simple and I didn't want it feeling heavy on the land so I cantilevered the structure beyond exposed foundation walls. My barn is nearby and it features old 1950's "S" corrugated metal panel walls. I used the same panel profile for my siding. I ran it vertical to match the barn, but also to balance the length of the structure and stretch the high point into the canopy, visually. The wood is all Southern Yellow Pine. This material came from clearing at the Babcock Ranch Development site. I ran it through the structure, end to end and horizontally, to create a seamless feel and to stretch the space. It worked. It feels MUCH bigger than it is. I milled the material to specific sizes in specific areas to create precise alignments. Floor starters align with base. Wall tops adjoin ceiling starters to create the illusion of a seamless board. All light fixtures, HVAC supports, cabinets, switches, outlets, are set specifically to wood joints. The front and rear porch wood has three different milling profiles so the hypotenuse on the ceilings, align with the walls, and yield an aligned deck board below. Yes, I over did it. It is spectacular in its detailing. That's the benefit of small spaces. Concrete counters and IKEA cabinets round out the conversation. For those who cannot live tiny, I offer the Tiny-ish House. Photos by Ryan Gamma Staging by iStage Homes Design Assistance Jimmy Thornton