Search results for "Avoiding costly" in Home Design Ideas

360° Fireplace Installation — Precision From Every Angle ?
Location: Bethel Island, CA
After completing a monumental 20-foot fireplace in this exclusive island community, another homeowner reached out to Mi Tile Installation Experts for an even more ambitious challenge — a four-sided fireplace with perfect symmetry and alignment from every angle.
This project required absolute precision — every corner, joint, and plane had to meet flawlessly across 360 degrees.
✨ Project Highlights:
? Custom geometric design for a striking centerpiece in the living area
? Tiling wrapped seamlessly around all four sides of the fireplace
? Floors fully protected with durable cardboard to prevent damage during setup and ladder work
? Perfect wall leveling before installation — ensuring clean lines and seamless joints
? High-grade stone-look tile for an elegant and timeless finish
The result: a fireplace that became the true focal point of the home — better than the design render itself — and a statement piece that leaves every guest speechless.
? Mikhailbelov37@gmail.com
? https://micatile.info
?️ Free Remodel Audit
Want to avoid hidden issues, costly delays, and budget surprises?
Comment “AUDIT” and we’ll provide a free expert review of your remodel — whether you’re just starting, already in progress, or recently completed.
We’ll help you:
✔️ Plan your project efficiently
✔️ Know what to expect
✔️ Identify common contractor shortcuts
✔️ Protect your investment from day one
? Exclusive Client Benefits
✨ Bonus Program — earn up to 15% back in bonus points to use toward your next project or gift to family/friends.
✨ Referral Program — get 10% cash back from every direct referral project, plus 3% from their referrals.
✨ Returning Client Discount — receive 10% off per sq ft on your second project.
Want full details? Comment BONUS and we’ll send you the complete guide.
#fireplacedesign #customtile #stonelooktile #luxuryremodel #mitileinstallationexperts #miauditmyremodel #bethelisland #oceanviewhome #homerenovation #contractor #precisioncraftsmanship #tiling #interiordesign #modernfireplace #beforeandafter #luxuryhomes #tileinstallation #tileinstallationexperts #tileexperts

Our efficient process for general remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles begins by removing the old materials and fixtures and replaces them with beautiful options in a wide variety of colors and styles. A new kitchen and bathroom from Parisi Remodeling adds comfort, style and value to your home. With Parisi Remodeling in Los Angeles, you avoid issues of dealing with unreliable general contractors, constantly changing timeliness and unexpected costs.
General Contractors, Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Service in Los Angeles, CA - https://www.parisiremodeling.com/

Surprise 2 Bedroom Makeover In A Day!!
Parents wanted to surprise their kids with a remodeled room as a Christmas gift.
Their parents asked for some specific:
· It had to be a surprise—we just have one day to keep them out of the house,
· Stay on low budget—under $1,000 for each room,
· Provide enough space for their trophies,
· Have a “homework” area,
· Each room should not be too different from the other to avoid conflict between them,
· Fix the poor illumination on the rooms,
Our young clients Santiago (13 yrs.) and Matias (10 yrs.) are two vibrant and close brothers, who love red color and taekwondo.
Our solution:
Maximize space, making storage more efficient, while brightening the room with color, and keeping it versatile so over time our young clients could include their own taste and personality on the rooms.
#kidsroom #organikasmartdesign #roommakeover #designonabudget
Find the right local pro for your project

Almost five years ago, we completed this shower remodel using the Schluter waterproofing system and our full transparency approach.
From day one, our client knew every detail — every step, every deadline, and every material. No surprises. No delays. Just clear communication and results that stand the test of time.
Today, this shower still looks as beautiful and solid as the day it was finished. That same client continues to recommend us to friends and neighbors — and thanks to our Referral Program, he earns rewards for every new project that comes from his recommendation.
From that one neighborhood alone, we’ve completed four more full remodels, each one built on trust, craftsmanship, and proven results.
We take pride in knowing that our clients are not only satisfied — they’re proud to show their homes to others.
You can visit any of our past projects in person and see the same precision, durability, and beauty that define every Mi Tile Installation Experts project.
? Mikhailbelov37@gmail.com
? https://micatile.com
?️ Free Remodel Audit
Want to avoid hidden issues, costly delays, and budget surprises?
Comment “AUDIT” and we’ll provide a free expert review of your remodel — whether you’re just starting, already in progress, or recently completed.
We’ll help you:
✔️ Plan your project efficiently
✔️ Know what to expect
✔️ Identify common contractor shortcuts
✔️ Protect your investment from day one
? Exclusive Client Benefits
✨ Bonus Program — earn up to 15% back in bonus points to use toward your next project or gift to family/friends.
✨ Referral Program — get 10% cash back from every direct referral project, plus 3% from their referrals.
✨ Returning Client Discount — receive 10% off per sq ft on your second project.
Want the full details? Comment BONUS and we’ll send you the complete guide.
#longlastingquality #showerremodel #schlutersystem #trustworthycontractor #tileinstallation #referralprogram #customremodel #waterproofing #qualitycraftsmanship #loomis #granitebay #eldoradohills #mitileinstallationexperts #miauditmyremodel #beforeandafter #remodeljourney

I think that many carpenters today consider nails and screws to be what holds a structure together. As a result, I think that many structures today are held together by little more than nails and screws. I often see knee braces bolted to the side of a post for a pergola when they should be positioned between the post and beam to take the load directly. Fasteners should not be load-bearing! They should be used to pin a piece of lumber into a position that allows it to shoulder the load directly.
Nails and screws are fast. When used appropriately, they can keep costs down by reducing the time it takes to build something. But they are not the answer to everything. Joist hangars do little to stop a deck from pulling away from a house, just as nailing from the side is not a replacement for putting a post directly under a beam.
On more than one occasion I've solved a challenging framing problem by employing lap-joints. I've used lap-jointed framing to build curves without having to bend wood, and in the example shown I've used them simply to avoid having to look at an unsightly beam underneath a raised section of deck.
I cut notches half way through my beam where the joists will go, then I cut a corresponding notch into each joist that allows it to fit into the notch in the beam. This allows the joists to cantilever 'through' the beam, which gives me a number of advantages. Using this technique, I can build deck frames tight to the ground without having to rim the structure with joist-hangared beams. I can also use the cantilever to sculpt the edge of the deck into nearly any shape.
As the lumber is locked in from every direction, it is also a far stronger joint than a joist-hangared butt-end, as it resists pulling away, and it is stronger than joist-on-beam because it does not allow for any twisting or 'flopping' of the joists. The beam and joist are locked together, and they each replace the missing pieces of one another, so there is no strength lost in either member.
-Tyler Collins, Operations Manager

This picture shows an all tile spa with a vanishing edge.
Example of a large tuscan pool design in San Francisco
Example of a large tuscan pool design in San Francisco

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Example of a mid-sized transitional open concept ceramic tile family room design in Phoenix with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a media wall

The Mid-Levels of Hong Kong Island is one of the most prominent luxury residential areas. This project - Estoril Court in Mid-Levels Central is one of the rare heritage mansions in Hong Kong with a "thousand-year lease," comprising a total of 240 units.
The young couple, with their two daughters, have settled here. For the wide experience husband, the most important aspect of a home is that it carries the "depth of love." His wife's preferences and the children's interests were frequently mentioned during this project. "I hope the design can break through conventions and avoid falling into the trap of popular but clichéd styles. Kyle and I resonate deeply on this point; we both pursue a 'more personal expression.' Family life should be relaxing, natural, and bringing joy to my family members."
This residence features a square layout and excellent natural lighting, with a practicality rate of nearly 90%. However, its over 40-year-old structure poses numerous constraints on renovations. Adhering to the existing structure and the wisdom of geomancy, Karv One Design has re-examined the relationship among the landscape, windows, and functional flow within the home. They have integrated practicality, beauty, and self-expression into every corner, enhancing the happiness of living.
Once stepping into the living room, you are greeted by Hong Kong's most spectacular vistas. The ever-changing scenery of Victoria Harbour, both day and night, the immense skyscrapers of different banks and commercial buildings and the panoramic views of the Peak are all within sight. The expansive dimensions of the living room are a response to the surrounding environment, providing ample space for family bonding and companionship, while also allowing the breathtaking skyline views to seamlessly integrate into daily life.
Unlike traditional whole-house decoration, the design of Hong Kong homes emphasizes collage and customization. The minimalist aesthetic of the space corresponds to the luxurious craftsmanship and time costs involved. Elements such as natural stone, artistic paint, parquet flooring, wood veneer, and leather have all been meticulously coordinated in terms of color and proportion, while a significant amount of storage space has been cleverly concealed within the walls.
The study room is deliberately positioned to one side of the living room, embracing the gentle stretch of sunlight. The arched iron partition, exuding a vintage flavor and traces of time, not only serves as a natural divider of space but also becomes a highlight of the interior decoration with its unique artistic form, creating a serene yet stylish atmosphere. It ensures privacy without compromising on openness, allowing the home owner to work in the study room while still keeping an eye on the children playing in the living room.
Custom-made artisanal furniture offers a whole new expression of comfort and practicality to the space. The Giorgetti HUG armchair combines a sculptural sense of form with a flowing sense of shape. When natural light filters in, a rich artistic atmosphere permeates and grows within, making the home a place of tranquility and peace of mind.
The fireplace plays a significant role in the dining room. In the warm climate of Hong Kong, the fireplace rarely serves a practical purpose; it is designed to create a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings. During the winter Christmas season, it will be adorned with gifts wrapped in beautiful paper, serving as a nostalgic reminder of memories and expressions of love.
The original open-plan layout of the master bedroom has been reconfigured and divided. The ultimate goal of the enclosed space is to provide comfort and ease of sleep. The pale green color is also carefully coordinated, focusing on creating a serene and pleasant atmosphere. The combination of "green," "wood," and "metal elements" is based on Feng Shui considerations, serving to stabilize and concentrate the energy flow.
The children's room is simple yet cozy, where sunlight awakens the space and transparent glass windows bring in the ocean view. The palette of pale blue and white adds warmth and vitality to the space, inspiring children's boundless imagination about the unknown world and giving them the courage to see mountains, seas, and the world beyond.
The unique, customized storage design is cleverly hidden within the space, blending handicraft and industrial design. Adorned with delicate textures such as rounded corners and layered elements, the craftsmanship is meticulous and exquisite, demonstrating exceptional ingenuity. It adds a sense of depth and artistry to the visual experience.
The lighting system in the space brings more enjoyable experiences to "living as you desire." The smart system caters to various states of living scenarios at different times, as well as to the subtle needs of ambient temperature, brightness, and tactile atmosphere. Whether it's solo time or family moments, day or night, everyone has a comfortable place to be.
The "Estoril Court" project is a full-service case that last for 12 months. We had hundreds of communications and exchanges with the home owner, and continuously coordinated and collaborated with the property management, on-site construction and installation workers, manufacturers, and various suppliers, striving for perfection in craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail in execution. Finally, seeing the satisfied expressions of the home owner and their family, we felt that it was an ideal conveyance.

Stegmann
Inspiration for a large timeless galley porcelain tile eat-in kitchen remodel in Los Angeles with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, multicolored backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula
Inspiration for a large timeless galley porcelain tile eat-in kitchen remodel in Los Angeles with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, multicolored backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

As general contractors in Menlo Park, our efficient process for bathroom and kitchen remodeling in Menlo Park begins by removing the old materials and fixtures and replaces them with beautiful options in a wide variety of colors and styles. A new kitchen and bathroom from Simpson Remodeling adds comfort, style and value to your home. With Simpson Remodeling in Menlo Park, you avoid issues of dealing with unreliable general contractors, constantly changing timeliness and unexpected costs.
General Contractors, Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Service in Menlo Park, CA - http://www.simpsonremodeling.com/

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

As general contractors in Menlo Park, our efficient process for bathroom and kitchen remodeling in Menlo Park begins by removing the old materials and fixtures and replaces them with beautiful options in a wide variety of colors and styles. A new kitchen and bathroom from Simpson Remodeling adds comfort, style and value to your home. With Simpson Remodeling in Menlo Park, you avoid issues of dealing with unreliable general contractors, constantly changing timeliness and unexpected costs.
General Contractors, Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Service in Menlo Park, CA - http://www.simpsonremodeling.com/

Our efficient process for general remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling in Calabasas begins by removing the old materials and fixtures and replaces them with beautiful options in a wide variety of colors and styles. A new kitchen and bathroom from Parisi Remodeling adds comfort, style and value to your home. With Parisi Remodeling in Calabasas, you avoid issues of dealing with unreliable general contractors, constantly changing timeliness and unexpected costs.
General Contractors, Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Service in Calabasas, CA - https://www.parisiremodeling.com/

Thomas Ryan
Example of a mid-sized country light wood floor and beige floor hallway design in Hobart with white walls
Example of a mid-sized country light wood floor and beige floor hallway design in Hobart with white walls

Hawaiian mango locally sourced for the stair treads, sanded so its buttery smooth and warm on your feet. This is a storage staircase with closet and bookshelf that faces the seating area. no space is waisted.
I love working with clients that have ideas that I have been waiting to bring to life. All of the owner requests were things I had been wanting to try in an Oasis model. The table and seating area in the circle window bump out that normally had a bar spanning the window; the round tub with the rounded tiled wall instead of a typical angled corner shower; an extended loft making a big semi circle window possible that follows the already curved roof. These were all ideas that I just loved and was happy to figure out. I love how different each unit can turn out to fit someones personality.
The Oasis model is known for its giant round window and shower bump-out as well as 3 roof sections (one of which is curved). The Oasis is built on an 8x24' trailer. We build these tiny homes on the Big Island of Hawaii and ship them throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

Total reno from old kitchen/ding area. Layout was rewrked to allow for more open concept and more cabinet space. Creative use of adjustable track lighting to avoid expensive rewiring costs.

Wing Wong
This small bathroom was renovated using some aging in place design. We added a bench, a second handheld shower next to the bench, and used a raised height toilet. I wanted the shower to be curbless, but to keep the costs down (avoiding redoing the pitch in the floor) we had a minimum curb.
The doors were widened to 36" in case my client needs to use a wheelchair.
The frameless shower and beige tile and walls opened up the bathroom. The reddish orange glass vanity and upper cabinet is modern looking but full of functional storage solutions. the red/orange accent tile pulled the glass top color into the shower.

As general contractors in Menlo Park, our efficient process for bathroom and kitchen remodeling in Menlo Park begins by removing the old materials and fixtures and replaces them with beautiful options in a wide variety of colors and styles. A new kitchen and bathroom from Simpson Remodeling adds comfort, style and value to your home. With Simpson Remodeling in Menlo Park, you avoid issues of dealing with unreliable general contractors, constantly changing timeliness and unexpected costs.
General Contractors, Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Service in Menlo Park, CA - http://www.simpsonremodeling.com/

As general contractors in Mountain View, our efficient process for bathroom and kitchen remodeling in Mountain View begins by removing the old materials and fixtures and replaces them with beautiful options in a wide variety of colors and styles. A new kitchen and bathroom from Simpson Remodeling adds comfort, style and value to your home. With Simpson Remodeling in Mountain View, you avoid issues of dealing with unreliable general contractors, constantly changing timeliness and unexpected costs.
General Contractors, Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Service in Mountain View, CA - http://www.simpsonremodeling.com/
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