THE PROBLEM Our clients fell in love with the this home and its beautiful, secluded surroundings the first time they saw it. Over time however, the split living space on the main floor proved to be not as functional as they wanted it to be for their family nor did it provide a great connection to the outdoor space that they loved so much. THE SOLUTION The solution, while clear, was not simple. To remove the main load bearing wall shared by these two rooms took a considerable amount of framing and the introduction of new structural components to merge two unique rooflines. The removal of the wall created an eat-in kitchen with a wall of windows and an open concept living area. One of the main features and highlights of this space is a uniquely designed banquette that is a custom built-in extension of the island offering both seating at the island as well as a place for an actual dining table. The new layout also offered ample spacing for cooking, plenty of preparation space as well as a coffee and tea area for the family's assortment of favorite beverages. Custom cabinetry adorns the walls alongside a neutral and class backsplash, new white oak floors, updated entryway and hallway pantry closet.

This Brooklyn backyard patio design was made for entertaining with its outdoor kitchen, contemporary dining and seating areas, a fire-pit, bluestone patio, and custom horizontal planter boxes and fencing made of ipe. The lush plantings include Japanese maples, dogwoods, ornamental grasses, trumpet vines, sweet potato vines, and a lush assortment of flowering perennials and annuals. All of the plantings contain automated low-voltage up-lighting and drip irrigation lines. The main challenges to designing this space included being aware of widely varying pockets of sun and shade and using the right plants that would do well in each scenario, providing adequate drainage in the bluestone patio, which we did by installing a zip drain that runs the length of the patio, and making planters that would be substantial enough to be able to hold mature plantings, but that wouldn't be so heavy that they would be impossible to ever move later on. We put casters on the bottom of all the planters to help make them mobile, which turned out to be a very good thing when the client decided to make some changes to the placement of the planters after they were installed. Read more about our projects on my blog at www.amberfreda.com.

Erin Chrusciel Photography
Example of a large transitional carpeted living room library design in Boston with blue walls and no fireplace

THE PROBLEM Our clients fell in love with the this home and its beautiful, secluded surroundings the first time they saw it. Over time however, the split living space on the main floor proved to be not as functional as they wanted it to be for their family nor did it provide a great connection to the outdoor space that they loved so much. THE SOLUTION The solution, while clear, was not simple. To remove the main load bearing wall shared by these two rooms took a considerable amount of framing and the introduction of new structural components to merge two unique rooflines. The removal of the wall created an eat-in kitchen with a wall of windows and an open concept living area. One of the main features and highlights of this space is a uniquely designed banquette that is a custom built-in extension of the island offering both seating at the island as well as a place for an actual dining table. The new layout also offered ample spacing for cooking, plenty of preparation space as well as a coffee and tea area for the family's assortment of favorite beverages. Custom cabinetry adorns the walls alongside a neutral and class backsplash, new white oak floors, updated entryway and hallway pantry closet.

THE PROBLEM Our clients fell in love with the this home and its beautiful, secluded surroundings the first time they saw it. Over time however, the split living space on the main floor proved to be not as functional as they wanted it to be for their family nor did it provide a great connection to the outdoor space that they loved so much. THE SOLUTION The solution, while clear, was not simple. To remove the main load bearing wall shared by these two rooms took a considerable amount of framing and the introduction of new structural components to merge two unique rooflines. The removal of the wall created an eat-in kitchen with a wall of windows and an open concept living area. One of the main features and highlights of this space is a uniquely designed banquette that is a custom built-in extension of the island offering both seating at the island as well as a place for an actual dining table. The new layout also offered ample spacing for cooking, plenty of preparation space as well as a coffee and tea area for the family's assortment of favorite beverages. Custom cabinetry adorns the walls alongside a neutral and class backsplash, new white oak floors, updated entryway and hallway pantry closet.

The farmhouse design is well-suited for multi-family houses plus apartment buildings with sloping sides. Their distinct design helps them create an eye-catching appearance, and the spacious porch welcomes guests and hosts inside. The modern cottage's main-floor layout flaunts a spacious and elegantly designed formal living area connected to a large back porch and an inviting fireplace to keep you warm in the winter. This room features a reading area with an office area with storage and a deck, a well-equipped kitchen with a modern counter, a complimentary breakfast point off the butler's kitchen, and a sun porch with a fireplace. The kitchen is connected to the laundry room, and the mudroom has a garage, which has 3 cars. In addition, the powder room and a mudroom are located on the lower level. This luxurious luxury home's interior includes living rooms with games, a fitness center, a half bath, and storage space. The upstairs level of the home features a master bedroom with a modern master bathroom with typical amenities and an assortment of bedrooms offering a private bathroom with closets and private alcoves. Each bedroom has a gorgeous walk-in closet. The spacious five-bedroom, four-bathroom bungalow-style house is intended for everyone to enjoy time together.

"Dramatically positioned along Pelican Crest's prized front row, this Newport Coast House presents a refreshing modern aesthetic rarely available in the community. A comprehensive $6M renovation completed in December 2017 appointed the home with an assortment of sophisticated design elements, including white oak & travertine flooring, light fixtures & chandeliers by Apparatus & Ladies & Gentlemen, & SubZero appliances throughout. The home's unique orientation offers the region's best view perspective, encompassing the ocean, Catalina Island, Harbor, city lights, Palos Verdes, Pelican Hill Golf Course, & crashing waves. The eminently liveable floorplan spans 3 levels and is host to 5 bedroom suites, open social spaces, home office (possible 6th bedroom) with views & balcony, temperature-controlled wine and cigar room, home spa with heated floors, a steam room, and quick-fill tub, home gym, & chic master suite with frameless, stand-alone shower, his & hers closets, & sprawling ocean views. The rear yard is an entertainer's paradise with infinity-edge pool & spa, fireplace, built-in BBQ, putting green, lawn, and covered outdoor dining area. An 8-car subterranean garage & fully integrated Savant system complete this one of-a-kind residence. Residents of Pelican Crest enjoy 24/7 guard-gated patrolled security, swim, tennis & playground amenities of the Newport Coast Community Center & close proximity to the pristine beaches, world-class shopping & dining, & John Wayne Airport." via Cain Group / Pacific Sotheby's International Realty Photo: Chris Snitko

Angela & Ash Hakimi
Design ideas for a large mediterranean full sun front yard stone water fountain landscape in San Francisco for summer.

After years of enjoying their backyard, the clients of this property enlisted our firm to improve the original landscape we had completed over ten years ago. Our goal was to update the patio and further develop their backyard by creating a garden with a variety of color and texture. Over time the existing patio had settled, plantings grew, and an existing Oak thrived. During the initial home and landscape construction our clients were particularly concerned about the health of the mature Oak located just off the home. Special care was given when the patio was first built. Precautions were again taken in working around the Oak as the existing patio was removed and replaced. Surrounding trees and shrubs had grown and enclosed the backyard limiting access. This required almost all work and transport of material to be done by hand. The old concrete paver patio was replaced with bluestone. Existing mortared limestone around the edges of the patio levels were cleaned and tuck-pointed. A new stoop was constructed with mortared limestone risers and bluestone treads. A built-in grill and fireplace further updated the backyard space. The fireplace was designed to follow the organic curve of the patio. Mortared limestone and bluestone material were repeated on all elements, tying them together. Along with the updated patio, many additions were made in transforming the modest backyard into a lush garden. Masses of annuals, ornamental grasses, and perennials along with mixed shrubs created sweeps of color and texture in front of a new arborvitae hedge and other existing trees and shrubs. After careful planning and execution the completed landscape gave our clients the updated landscape they desired. The completion of the project was a rewarding and fulfilling experience as we transformed a good past project into a fantastic new project.

The farmhouse design is well-suited for multi-family houses plus apartment buildings with sloping sides. Their distinct design helps them create an eye-catching appearance, and the spacious porch welcomes guests and hosts inside. The modern cottage's main-floor layout flaunts a spacious and elegantly designed formal living area connected to a large back porch and an inviting fireplace to keep you warm in the winter. This room features a reading area with an office area with storage and a deck, a well-equipped kitchen with a modern counter, a complimentary breakfast point off the butler's kitchen, and a sun porch with a fireplace. The kitchen is connected to the laundry room, and the mudroom has a garage, which has 3 cars. In addition, the powder room and a mudroom are located on the lower level. This luxurious luxury home's interior includes living rooms with games, a fitness center, a half bath, and storage space. The upstairs level of the home features a master bedroom with a modern master bathroom with typical amenities and an assortment of bedrooms offering a private bathroom with closets and private alcoves. Each bedroom has a gorgeous walk-in closet. The spacious five-bedroom, four-bathroom bungalow-style house is intended for everyone to enjoy time together.

THE PROBLEM Our clients fell in love with the this home and its beautiful, secluded surroundings the first time they saw it. Over time however, the split living space on the main floor proved to be not as functional as they wanted it to be for their family nor did it provide a great connection to the outdoor space that they loved so much. THE SOLUTION The solution, while clear, was not simple. To remove the main load bearing wall shared by these two rooms took a considerable amount of framing and the introduction of new structural components to merge two unique rooflines. The removal of the wall created an eat-in kitchen with a wall of windows and an open concept living area. One of the main features and highlights of this space is a uniquely designed banquette that is a custom built-in extension of the island offering both seating at the island as well as a place for an actual dining table. The new layout also offered ample spacing for cooking, plenty of preparation space as well as a coffee and tea area for the family's assortment of favorite beverages. Custom cabinetry adorns the walls alongside a neutral and class backsplash, new white oak floors, updated entryway and hallway pantry closet.

Photo: Caela McKeever © 2015 Houzz

THE PROBLEM Our clients fell in love with the this home and its beautiful, secluded surroundings the first time they saw it. Over time however, the split living space on the main floor proved to be not as functional as they wanted it to be for their family nor did it provide a great connection to the outdoor space that they loved so much. THE SOLUTION The solution, while clear, was not simple. To remove the main load bearing wall shared by these two rooms took a considerable amount of framing and the introduction of new structural components to merge two unique rooflines. The removal of the wall created an eat-in kitchen with a wall of windows and an open concept living area. One of the main features and highlights of this space is a uniquely designed banquette that is a custom built-in extension of the island offering both seating at the island as well as a place for an actual dining table. The new layout also offered ample spacing for cooking, plenty of preparation space as well as a coffee and tea area for the family's assortment of favorite beverages. Custom cabinetry adorns the walls alongside a neutral and class backsplash, new white oak floors, updated entryway and hallway pantry closet.

THE PROBLEM Our clients fell in love with the this home and its beautiful, secluded surroundings the first time they saw it. Over time however, the split living space on the main floor proved to be not as functional as they wanted it to be for their family nor did it provide a great connection to the outdoor space that they loved so much. THE SOLUTION The solution, while clear, was not simple. To remove the main load bearing wall shared by these two rooms took a considerable amount of framing and the introduction of new structural components to merge two unique rooflines. The removal of the wall created an eat-in kitchen with a wall of windows and an open concept living area. One of the main features and highlights of this space is a uniquely designed banquette that is a custom built-in extension of the island offering both seating at the island as well as a place for an actual dining table. The new layout also offered ample spacing for cooking, plenty of preparation space as well as a coffee and tea area for the family's assortment of favorite beverages. Custom cabinetry adorns the walls alongside a neutral and class backsplash, new white oak floors, updated entryway and hallway pantry closet.

THE PROBLEM Our clients fell in love with the this home and its beautiful, secluded surroundings the first time they saw it. Over time however, the split living space on the main floor proved to be not as functional as they wanted it to be for their family nor did it provide a great connection to the outdoor space that they loved so much. THE SOLUTION The solution, while clear, was not simple. To remove the main load bearing wall shared by these two rooms took a considerable amount of framing and the introduction of new structural components to merge two unique rooflines. The removal of the wall created an eat-in kitchen with a wall of windows and an open concept living area. One of the main features and highlights of this space is a uniquely designed banquette that is a custom built-in extension of the island offering both seating at the island as well as a place for an actual dining table. The new layout also offered ample spacing for cooking, plenty of preparation space as well as a coffee and tea area for the family's assortment of favorite beverages. Custom cabinetry adorns the walls alongside a neutral and class backsplash, new white oak floors, updated entryway and hallway pantry closet.

These clients, an entrepreneur and a physician with three kids, chose their Tudor home for the neighborhood, though it didn’t match their modern-transitional taste. They asked us to help them transform their into a place to play and entertain with clean lines and lively color, namely her favorites: bold purple and refreshing apple green. Their previous layout had a stifled flow with a large sectional sofa that dominated the room, and an awkward assortment of furniture that they wanted to discard with the exception of a vintage stone dining table from her mother. The living room served as a pass through to both the family and dining rooms. The client wanted the living room to be less like a glorified hallway and become a destination. Our solution was to unify the design of this living space with the related rooms by using repetition of color and by creating usable areas for family game night, entertaining and small get togethers. The generous proportions of the room enabled us to create three functional spaces: a game table with seating for four and adjacent pull up seating for family play; a seating area at the fireplace that accommodates a large group or small conversation; and seating at the front window that provides a view of the street (not seen in the photograph). The space went from awkward to one that is used daily for family activities and socializing. As they were not interested in touching the existing architecture, transformations were made using new light fixtures, paint, distinctive furniture and art. The client had a strict budget but desired the highly styled look of couture design pieces with curves and movement. We accomplished this look by pairing a few distinctive couture items with inspired pieces that are budget balancers. We combined the couture game table with more affordable chairs inspired by a classic klismos style, as one might pair Louboutins with stylish jeans. Right- and left-arm chairs with an interesting castle-like fret base detail flank windows. To help the clients better understand the use of the color scheme, we keyed the floor plan to show how the greens and purples traveled in a balanced manner around the room and throughout the adjacent dining and family rooms. We paired apple green accents with layered hues of lavender, orchid and aubergine. Neutral taupe and ivory tones ground the bold colors. The custom rug in ivory, aubergine, pale taupe, grey-lavender was inspired by a picture the client found, but we dramatically increased the scale of the pattern in proportion to our room size. This curvy movement is echoed in the sophisticated shapes of the furniture throughout the redesigned room—from the curved sofas to the circular cutouts in the cube end table. At the windows the solid sateen panels with contrasting aubergine banding have the hand of silk, and are also cost conscious, creating room in the budget for the stunning custom pillows in Italian embroidered silk. The distinctive color and shapes throughout provide the whimsy the clients' desired with the function they needed, creating an inviting living room that is now a daily destination. Designed by KBK Interior Design www.KBKInteriorDesign.com Photo by Wing Wong

"Dramatically positioned along Pelican Crest's prized front row, this Newport Coast House presents a refreshing modern aesthetic rarely available in the community. A comprehensive $6M renovation completed in December 2017 appointed the home with an assortment of sophisticated design elements, including white oak & travertine flooring, light fixtures & chandeliers by Apparatus & Ladies & Gentlemen, & SubZero appliances throughout. The home's unique orientation offers the region's best view perspective, encompassing the ocean, Catalina Island, Harbor, city lights, Palos Verdes, Pelican Hill Golf Course, & crashing waves. The eminently liveable floorplan spans 3 levels and is host to 5 bedroom suites, open social spaces, home office (possible 6th bedroom) with views & balcony, temperature-controlled wine and cigar room, home spa with heated floors, a steam room, and quick-fill tub, home gym, & chic master suite with frameless, stand-alone shower, his & hers closets, & sprawling ocean views. The rear yard is an entertainer's paradise with infinity-edge pool & spa, fireplace, built-in BBQ, putting green, lawn, and covered outdoor dining area. An 8-car subterranean garage & fully integrated Savant system complete this one of-a-kind residence. Residents of Pelican Crest enjoy 24/7 guard-gated patrolled security, swim, tennis & playground amenities of the Newport Coast Community Center & close proximity to the pristine beaches, world-class shopping & dining, & John Wayne Airport." via Cain Group / Pacific Sotheby's International Realty Photo: Chris Snitko

The client wanted a sleek and modern open space that worked with the exceptional stone wall. The area is quite large, so he was having a challenge with the layout. We assisted the client in all material selections, finishes, furniture, cushions, colours and the open plan floor plan and design. The entire living space is uncluttered, cohesive, and works with the natural stone wall…exactly what the client asked for. Materials used: Original artwork, grey and blue area rug, stone and brick wall, chrome and glass coffee and end tables, Blue leather electric reclining couches, chrome and white leather accent chairs, grey leather adjustable stools, white lacquer TV Unit, 60-inch tv, Glass and chrome dining table, grey and chrome leather dining chairs, industrial ceiling fixtures, colourful accessories, white lacquer dining buffet with bar, white and chrome Arc lamp, white and chrome floor lamp, assorted accent cushions. Project Year: 2021

The Princeton Room had room for a small bookcase, and one had to be found narrow enough to fit between the open wardrobe door and open bedroom door. Glass tops were made for each of the pieces of furniture, because these bedrooms are used both by geographical bachelors, and by families staying in the Massachusetts Suite, with their children staying in the adjacent New Jersey Suite. Assorted additional books about the Revolutionary War, and specifically about the conflict in New Jersey, were added to the new bookcase. An applejack decanter in the form of a New Jersey Blues soldier was found for this room. Above the bookcase is an etching of Nassau Hall, at Princeton, the original Princeton building, and to the right, a photo of descendants of New Jersey Revolutionary War officers (the Society of the Cincinnati in the State of New Jersey) taken in front of Nassau Hall. Bob Narod, Photographer. Design by Linda H. Bassert, Masterworks Window Fashions & Design, LLC