Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano. Project Goals + Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather + Cooking functionality for their family farm + Add a workstation sink for easy food prep + Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection + Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style Challenges & Issues + Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist + Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop + Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home + The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions Country Kitchen Features: Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining. Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals. Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty. Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens. Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together. New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests. Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks. Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently. Country House Living Room: New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC. Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling. Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room. New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

After living in downtown Chicago their whole lives, these clients were ready for a change of pace. So, they retired and purchased a home near the lake, of course! They both love to cook, and were excited to host big family gatherings. In other words, a full kitchen remodel was in order. The full bath on the main level also needed a complete overhaul. Design Objectives: -Open the kitchen to adjacent family room to create a better space for entertaining -Upgrade appliances and ventilation -Plenty of storage for an extensive collection of cookware and small appliances -Create a dedicated space for baking and pizza making Include a large island for gathering -Select finishes that bring the outdoors in -Create a classic beach vibe with NO white cabinetry! Include tile flooring to flow from laundry room to bathroom to kitchen, while complementing existing hardwood floors -Create direct access to bathroom from laundry room (so family coming from the beach don’t track sand throughout the house) Design Challenges: -Omitting wall between kitchen and family room left very little wall space for cabinetry and appliances -Providing plenty of storage and work surfaces for avid cooks/bakers -Replace existing hardwood with stone floor tile that complements existing hardwood floors as well as cabinetry finishes Design Solutions: -Creating two islands was a key design decision. The large island is for cooking and gathering. The smaller island is for baking and pizza making -Placing the range in the island created a very effective layout for this kitchen -Adding a pocket door from the bath to the laundry room created a direct path for sandy kids and adults alike THE RENEWED KITCHEN AND MORE The finished space feels open and welcoming for the homeowners, their friends and family. The kitchen functions as well for two as it does for a crowd.

Rob and Danielle have three children and wanted a kitchen redesign that would function better for their active household. Their kitchen contained tight spaces with a narrow island that blocked flow through the room. Two cooks in the kitchen were one too many as the space wasn’t conducive for it. For entertaining, the island proved to be too small to set out all their food and have room around it for guests to congregate. The only way to walk to the great room, which was where the family hung out most often, was to go through the kitchen and dining area, proving to again congest the area. They are avid sailors, and wanted to bring in the color of the sea into their contemporary design. I added a separate entry point directly from the kitchen to the great room, and created a work triangle in a separate area to relieve the congestion from people passing through the room. The island shape and size were uniquely designed to allow the person at the sink to be able to look directly into the great room, and provide ample space to spread out food for entertaining. A bookcase was integrated into the island to display cookbooks, and the paneled refrigerator made for a seamless wall of beautiful cabinetry. The entry into the formal dining was relocated to remove the necessity of having corner cabinetry. A separate bar area allows family and guests to make their drinks without needing to go into the chef’s space. The glass backsplash tile was selected to reflect the sea colors they love, with crystal pendants to add bling similar to the light that reflects off the water.

Transitional home gym photo in Calgary

The avid gardener who owns this Kenilworth home hoped for a more efficient kitchen — one that would better accommodate her penchant for canning and allow her to enjoy the fruits of her labor year round. An experienced commercial interior designer, she first drew up a plan, then contracted The Hands of Sean Perry Co. to bring her vision to life. The crew constructed a new kitchen extension and mudroom space, then added a back entrance and stoop to the side yard, improving accessibility from the kitchen to the garden. Then, it was the kitchen’s turn for an upgrade. The team worked with Grove Cabinet Gallery to create and install cabinets that were specific to the homeowner’s needs, including a custom open corner base cabinet that puts all cooking necessities at the owner’s fingertips.

The avid gardener who owns this Kenilworth home hoped for a more efficient kitchen — one that would better accommodate her penchant for canning and allow her to enjoy the fruits of her labor year round. An experienced commercial interior designer, she first drew up a plan, then contracted The Hands of Sean Perry Co. to bring her vision to life. The crew constructed a new kitchen extension and mudroom space, then added a back entrance and stoop to the side yard, improving accessibility from the kitchen to the garden. Then, it was the kitchen’s turn for an upgrade. The team worked with Grove Cabinet Gallery to create and install cabinets that were specific to the homeowner’s needs, including a custom open corner base cabinet that puts all cooking necessities at the owner’s fingertips.

The avid gardener who owns this Kenilworth home hoped for a more efficient kitchen — one that would better accommodate her penchant for canning and allow her to enjoy the fruits of her labor year round. An experienced commercial interior designer, she first drew up a plan, then contracted The Hands of Sean Perry Co. to bring her vision to life. The crew constructed a new kitchen extension and mudroom space, then added a back entrance and stoop to the side yard, improving accessibility from the kitchen to the garden. Then, it was the kitchen’s turn for an upgrade. The team worked with Grove Cabinet Gallery to create and install cabinets that were specific to the homeowner’s needs, including a custom open corner base cabinet that puts all cooking necessities at the owner’s fingertips.

The avid gardener who owns this Kenilworth home hoped for a more efficient kitchen — one that would better accommodate her penchant for canning and allow her to enjoy the fruits of her labor year round. An experienced commercial interior designer, she first drew up a plan, then contracted The Hands of Sean Perry Co. to bring her vision to life. The crew constructed a new kitchen extension and mudroom space, then added a back entrance and stoop to the side yard, improving accessibility from the kitchen to the garden. Then, it was the kitchen’s turn for an upgrade. The team worked with Grove Cabinet Gallery to create and install cabinets that were specific to the homeowner’s needs, including a custom open corner base cabinet that puts all cooking necessities at the owner’s fingertips.

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano. Project Goals + Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather + Cooking functionality for their family farm + Add a workstation sink for easy food prep + Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection + Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style Challenges & Issues + Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist + Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop + Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home + The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions Country Kitchen Features: Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining. Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals. Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty. Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens. Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together. New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests. Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks. Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently. Country House Living Room: New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC. Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling. Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room. New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

The original intent of this project was to replace the island, hood, countertops, and a few appliances. A primary bath remodel was the main priority. But once the couple realized certain features would enhance the functionality of the kitchen – not to mention completely change the aesthetic – they put the master bath on hold and decided to remodel the entire kitchen first. Design objectives: -Omit separate table, plan for a larger island that would seat 7 people -Simple, clean lines – no rounded corners or weird angles -Nothing trendy – use modern classic details -Uncluttered countertops -Better pantry storage for food & small appliances -Integrated major appliances -Coffee bar -Avoid “1 color on perimeter with second color on island” -Integrate a harmonious variety of finishes -Integrate black & handmade metals Design challenges: -Island shape to fit within confines of existing half wall between kitchen & family room & bay window/door to backyard -Narrow kitchen with major walkway -Planning for 7 seats at the island -Keep guest social area away from the cook’s zone -Place appliances according to use -Point-of-use storage for an avid cook within a relatively small space -Integrate colors without looking too busy THE NEW KITCHEN -While the island is mostly rectangular, the seating area utilizes the bay extension without interfering with the exterior door -All seating is placed on the outside perimeter of the island, giving the cook dedicated prep space -The L-shaped seating area & adjacent coffee bar encourage guests to gather on the outside edge of the kitchen where they can still interact with the cook -Island prep space includes 5 feet of versatile drawer storage, double waste basket and an open paper towel dispenser -One pantry designated for food; the other for small appliances & bulk storage; creates visual armoire look -Microwave drawer in island faces refrigerator for easy access & less interference with cook’s zone -Appliance garages avoid clutter on the countertops -Off-white upper cabinets make the kitchen look larger while the black bases offer contrast without closing in the space Once the client committed to remodeling her entire kitchen, she had a good idea of the direction she wanted the space to take. Even so, there were many details that remained open to explore & contemplate. The end result is modern, clean and ultimately transitional – a creative vision anchored in functionality and artistry! A powder room remodel was added to the project that beautifully compliments the kitchen aesthetic. The entire staircase, all trim & doors were painted in the same tones as the kitchen, transforming the entire first floor into a cohesive & welcoming space. It was a great collaborative partnership!

After living in downtown Chicago their whole lives, these clients were ready for a change of pace. So, they retired and purchased a home near the lake, of course! They both love to cook, and were excited to host big family gatherings. In other words, a full kitchen remodel was in order. The full bath on the main level also needed a complete overhaul. Design Objectives: -Open the kitchen to adjacent family room to create a better space for entertaining -Upgrade appliances and ventilation -Plenty of storage for an extensive collection of cookware and small appliances -Create a dedicated space for baking and pizza making Include a large island for gathering -Select finishes that bring the outdoors in -Create a classic beach vibe with NO white cabinetry! Include tile flooring to flow from laundry room to bathroom to kitchen, while complementing existing hardwood floors -Create direct access to bathroom from laundry room (so family coming from the beach don’t track sand throughout the house) Design Challenges: -Omitting wall between kitchen and family room left very little wall space for cabinetry and appliances -Providing plenty of storage and work surfaces for avid cooks/bakers -Replace existing hardwood with stone floor tile that complements existing hardwood floors as well as cabinetry finishes Design Solutions: -Creating two islands was a key design decision. The large island is for cooking and gathering. The smaller island is for baking and pizza making -Placing the range in the island created a very effective layout for this kitchen -Adding a pocket door from the bath to the laundry room created a direct path for sandy kids and adults alike THE RENEWED KITCHEN AND MORE The finished space feels open and welcoming for the homeowners, their friends and family. The kitchen functions as well for two as it does for a crowd.

Rob and Danielle have three children and wanted a kitchen redesign that would function better for their active household. Their kitchen contained tight spaces with a narrow island that blocked flow through the room. Two cooks in the kitchen were one too many as the space wasn’t conducive for it. For entertaining, the island proved to be too small to set out all their food and have room around it for guests to congregate. The only way to walk to the great room, which was where the family hung out most often, was to go through the kitchen and dining area, proving to again congest the area. They are avid sailors, and wanted to bring in the color of the sea into their contemporary design. I added a separate entry point directly from the kitchen to the great room, and created a work triangle in a separate area to relieve the congestion from people passing through the room. The island shape and size were uniquely designed to allow the person at the sink to be able to look directly into the great room, and provide ample space to spread out food for entertaining. A bookcase was integrated into the island to display cookbooks, and the paneled refrigerator made for a seamless wall of beautiful cabinetry. The entry into the formal dining was relocated to remove the necessity of having corner cabinetry. A separate bar area allows family and guests to make their drinks without needing to go into the chef’s space. The glass backsplash tile was selected to reflect the sea colors they love, with crystal pendants to add bling similar to the light that reflects off the water.

For the second phase, we moved down to the Basement. We kept the friendly sloth – what better way to invite folks on down? Again we lightened up the walls and created different sections in the large open area. We were able to display some wonderful antiques and art pieces in this Landing. The antique dresser is the perfect for the sloped ceiling and a great source for storage. We repositioned the loveseat along the longest wall and created a built-in effect with the homeowner’s bookcases. The homeowners are avid readers so we organized their book collection and mixed in found objects like an old radio and typewriter to keep the shelving interesting. The homeowners told me that they rarely used their Basement prior to the redesign, and now it is one of their favorite spots in the home. That’s definitely what we like to hear! Enjoy!

The avid gardener who owns this Kenilworth home hoped for a more efficient kitchen — one that would better accommodate her penchant for canning and allow her to enjoy the fruits of her labor year round. An experienced commercial interior designer, she first drew up a plan, then contracted The Hands of Sean Perry Co. to bring her vision to life. The crew constructed a new kitchen extension and mudroom space, then added a back entrance and stoop to the side yard, improving accessibility from the kitchen to the garden. Then, it was the kitchen’s turn for an upgrade. The team worked with Grove Cabinet Gallery to create and install cabinets that were specific to the homeowner’s needs, including a custom open corner base cabinet that puts all cooking necessities at the owner’s fingertips.

A gut remodel of the lower level of this beach home was needed when the client’s husband, a retired marine biologist and avid surfer, was diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s. The master suite with spa bath/shower wet room, and guest bedroom with full bath were redesigned for a whole new look and for better efficiency of the space to prepare for long term care while aging in place.

After living in downtown Chicago their whole lives, these clients were ready for a change of pace. So, they retired and purchased a home near the lake, of course! They both love to cook, and were excited to host big family gatherings. In other words, a full kitchen remodel was in order. The full bath on the main level also needed a complete overhaul. Design Objectives: -Open the kitchen to adjacent family room to create a better space for entertaining -Upgrade appliances and ventilation -Plenty of storage for an extensive collection of cookware and small appliances -Create a dedicated space for baking and pizza making Include a large island for gathering -Select finishes that bring the outdoors in -Create a classic beach vibe with NO white cabinetry! Include tile flooring to flow from laundry room to bathroom to kitchen, while complementing existing hardwood floors -Create direct access to bathroom from laundry room (so family coming from the beach don’t track sand throughout the house) Design Challenges: -Omitting wall between kitchen and family room left very little wall space for cabinetry and appliances -Providing plenty of storage and work surfaces for avid cooks/bakers -Replace existing hardwood with stone floor tile that complements existing hardwood floors as well as cabinetry finishes Design Solutions: -Creating two islands was a key design decision. The large island is for cooking and gathering. The smaller island is for baking and pizza making -Placing the range in the island created a very effective layout for this kitchen -Adding a pocket door from the bath to the laundry room created a direct path for sandy kids and adults alike THE RENEWED KITCHEN AND MORE The finished space feels open and welcoming for the homeowners, their friends and family. The kitchen functions as well for two as it does for a crowd.

Rob and Danielle have three children and wanted a kitchen redesign that would function better for their active household. Their kitchen contained tight spaces with a narrow island that blocked flow through the room. Two cooks in the kitchen were one too many as the space wasn’t conducive for it. For entertaining, the island proved to be too small to set out all their food and have room around it for guests to congregate. The only way to walk to the great room, which was where the family hung out most often, was to go through the kitchen and dining area, proving to again congest the area. They are avid sailors, and wanted to bring in the color of the sea into their contemporary design. I added a separate entry point directly from the kitchen to the great room, and created a work triangle in a separate area to relieve the congestion from people passing through the room. The island shape and size were uniquely designed to allow the person at the sink to be able to look directly into the great room, and provide ample space to spread out food for entertaining. A bookcase was integrated into the island to display cookbooks, and the paneled refrigerator made for a seamless wall of beautiful cabinetry. The entry into the formal dining was relocated to remove the necessity of having corner cabinetry. A separate bar area allows family and guests to make their drinks without needing to go into the chef’s space. The glass backsplash tile was selected to reflect the sea colors they love, with crystal pendants to add bling similar to the light that reflects off the water.

Rob and Danielle have three children and wanted a kitchen redesign that would function better for their active household. Their kitchen contained tight spaces with a narrow island that blocked flow through the room. Two cooks in the kitchen were one too many as the space wasn’t conducive for it. For entertaining, the island proved to be too small to set out all their food and have room around it for guests to congregate. The only way to walk to the great room, which was where the family hung out most often, was to go through the kitchen and dining area, proving to again congest the area. They are avid sailors, and wanted to bring in the color of the sea into their contemporary design. I added a separate entry point directly from the kitchen to the great room, and created a work triangle in a separate area to relieve the congestion from people passing through the room. The island shape and size were uniquely designed to allow the person at the sink to be able to look directly into the great room, and provide ample space to spread out food for entertaining. A bookcase was integrated into the island to display cookbooks, and the paneled refrigerator made for a seamless wall of beautiful cabinetry. The entry into the formal dining was relocated to remove the necessity of having corner cabinetry. A separate bar area allows family and guests to make their drinks without needing to go into the chef’s space. The glass backsplash tile was selected to reflect the sea colors they love, with crystal pendants to add bling similar to the light that reflects off the water.

Bram joined Roundtree as our Lead Landscape Design & Sales team member in 2018. An avid traveler and mountain backpacker, Bram takes inspiration both from nature and architecture from around the world when creating new designs. When it comes to Bram’s favorite part of his job with Roundtree, he will tell you it is his connection and relationships with our customers. His goal is to get to know you and listen; to discover the root of your landscape dreams and blend them with plants and techniques that work in our Dallas climate. In fact, it might seem like Bram is getting a little nosy with you when you start the design process with him! But asking questions about where you grew up, your favorite places to travel, and your day to day lifestyle is crucial for Bram when it comes to creating your perfect outdoor living landscape. In fact, the overall caring and cooperative spirit of the Roundtree Landscape team is a big reason why Bram feels like he fits right in with our company. Better understanding you – and caring about your needs - is how Bram brings your best landscape to life. A green industry veteran, Bram has more than 44 years of hands on experience. He started his career by learning greenhouse plant production, which fueled his passion for plants and landscape design. Further study in landscape architecture and botany informed his development as a skilled designer. Bram loves creating beautiful landscapes that are also highly functional; with a keen focus on creating outdoor spaces you can enjoy all year-round. Fun facts about Bram: Around the office Bram is a “Stupid Dad Jokes” expert! You can count on Bram to post a new Stupid Dad Joke at his desk daily. Bad jokes aside, Bram is also famous for his homemade salad dressings and salad creations. He can also hold his breath longer than anyone he knows, so be sure to ask for a demonstration the next time you see him! In addition to backpacking a different mountain range each year, Bram also loves snow skiing and water sports. Bram spends much of his time doing volunteer work for the Boy Scouts of America, The Crape Myrtle Trails of McKinney, as well as the Gardens & Grounds Committee at the Dallas Arboretum. Giving is receiving.