Stunning Kitchen and Laundry renovation in Bellevue Hill. The project aimed to improve the functionality and light up a tired and uncomfortable kitchen/laundry built 20 years ago. The brief required us to simplify the design to avoid cleaning as much as possible. For this reason the design doesn't expose any horizontal surface, integrates appliances and displays polished natural stone for the island, counter top and splash back.

When our clients come to us with a tight schedule and budget, we know exactly what to do. With a team full of trained Interior Designers like Mary Ann, home projects can move quickly with the perfect selections for your space and style. That’s exactly what happened recently when a remote homeowner from New York contacted Mary Ann and Aiden Fabrics for design help. She purchased a home in Wild Dunes, and within two weeks the plan was finalized with indoor and outdoor furniture, fabrics, rugs, window treatments and wall paint. Mary Ann was able to get everything installed in time for the spring renting season, which is a must in this area. The client’s main goal was to work with durable, washable fabrics, and she also wanted to stay within her budget. Mary Ann chose a sofa with Tempotest outdoor fabric. Her client smartly chose ‘cordless’ woven shades to avoid issues with small children. The end result is a beautiful space for many families to enjoy on the Isle of Palms!

This project updated two small bathrooms on the same floor within their existing footprints. The hall bath moved toward a warmer, more textured look with a wood vanity, black fixtures, and patterned floor tile, while the powder room took on a bolder, more dramatic feel with a dark floral wallpaper and a pedestal sink. Fixture locations were mostly kept in place to avoid moving plumbing and to keep the scope focused on finishes.

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

Contemporary kitchen cabinets are generally composed of minimal ornamentation and flat surfaces. The cabinetry style is intentionally non-traditional, avoiding decorative moldings in favor of simplicity and function. Many contemporary kitchens have monochromatic color schemes, featuring various combinations of black, white, and gray. These kitchens tend to look very modern and sharp. Some contemporary designs, however, incorporate unique colors or exotic wood in order to create a visual impact and showcase the homeowner's favorite materials or hues.

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/

This home had dated and falling apart finishes, an insignificant fireplace in a giant living room, and a poor layout in the family room. Not to mention the primary bath covered in bamboo wallpaper. The clients wanted a functional, updated and good-looking kitchen, a more adult family room, an updated serene primary bath. The remaining baths to be updated and modern. And, to make it feel like a holistic update, they wanted a welcoming staircase/entry. As with most clients, stretching their dollar as far as possible was important. They didn't want to enlarge any footprint or move walls - we had to stay within existing bounds. With a whole home remodel costs can add up quickly depending on where we start & stop. For this family it made sense to do all the work at once to avoid repeat remodels. It was either buy new and still have to customize, or remodel to their exact needs and wants. The remodel was more affordable and made just for them. Many finishes are clean, simple, and modern. A window was removed! in the family room to allow for a symmetrical entertainment center. A dramatic floor to ceiling fireplace surround was created in the Living room. The staircase was totally redone in both shape and style! The primary bath was reworked to get a two-person shower, and soaking tub. Serene /quiet finishes in the primary helped achieve a mellow /calming atmosphere. All new doors and trim throughout.

The Setup For this primary bath, our clients—empty nesters who recently updated their entire first floor—wanted a fresh, sophisticated look that would harmonize with the rest of their home’s new design. The original space included a large corner tub and a layout that, while functional, felt outdated and oversized for their needs. The goal was to update the bathroom with a layout that suited them perfectly without moving walls or major fixtures. Design objectives: Remove the large, outdated corner tub and replace it with a freestanding tub Expand and modernize the shower while keeping privacy in mind Update cabinetry for more organized, efficient storage Improve lighting with stylish yet understated fixtures to brighten the room Create a cozy, timeless atmosphere in the large space, maintaining functionality The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: Striking Balance with Lighting – The clients wanted a statement fixture that could enhance the overall design without feeling overwhelming or taking away from the open, airy atmosphere. Maximizing Existing Footprint – The clients wanted to avoid altering the floor plan, meaning the layout remained mostly the same. The focus was on enhancing the room’s functionality within the existing footprint. Retaining Coziness – With the removal of the oversized tub deck, there was a need to keep the space from feeling too vast and empty, ensuring it felt cozy and inviting despite the open layout. Adding Hidden Storage – The master closet was not attached to the bathroom, and the clients wanted a discreet way to store a hamper within the bath area without cluttering the room. The Renewed Space Design solutions: Freestanding Tub on an Angle – Replacing the old corner tub with a sleek, freestanding tub allowed the space to feel open and modern. Positioned at an angle, the tub brings balance to the layout and provides an inviting focal point while still preserving walk-around space for added functionality. Expanded Shower with Privacy Enhancements – The original, smaller shower was transformed with a larger footprint, half-wall for privacy, and contemporary brushed nickel fixtures, adding both style and function. A herringbone marble accent tile halfway up the shower walls adds a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the space. Custom Vanity with Built-in Hamper – A small pull-out hamper was added to the corner of the vanity, providing discreet storage and eliminating the need for a standalone basket. The cabinetry was reconfigured to be more functional and organized for the couple’s daily routines. Lighting that Complements the Room – The lighting selection was central to the redesign, with the client gravitating toward a bubble chandelier she had admired. After exploring several options, they chose a smaller size to provide a soft accent without dominating the space, tying in with the bathroom’s overall light and airy feel. The newly remodeled primary bath exudes a classic, calm atmosphere with a carefully chosen mix of textures and materials. The large porcelain floor tiles mimic the look of wood, lending a warm, traditional touch. Lightly textured cream tiles and brushed nickel fixtures create a soft and cohesive look, while the subtle herringbone marble accent in the shower adds just the right amount of elegance. Round mirrors above the vanities complement the curves of the freestanding tub, softening the room’s overall look and adding a touch of femininity. The result is a bright, timeless space tailored perfectly for the homeowners’ lifestyle.

Home Organizing for Bathrooms | Getting organized with Simplify Studio will actually save you money! When your belongings are organized you can find what you have & avoid buying duplicates | Raleigh, NC

Balcony - mid-sized traditional metal railing balcony idea in Denver with a roof extension

Anna Zagorodna
Bathroom - small modern bathroom idea in Richmond

Inspired by the grandeur of Oxford’s Christ Church College (made famous by Harry Potter) the Great Hall at the Lanier Theological Library & Learning Center in Houston houses intimate study and large-scale lecturing alike. Measuring 115’ × 40’ with a vaulted ceiling rising nearly four stories, the space blends ancient design traditions with modern utility, including a 40 ft LED video wall. To maintain the historic aesthetic, Reggio Register created custom Scroll-pattern vent covers in black, sized and shaped individually throughout the hall. “We wanted to avoid a standard size and shape… buildings in England were built over centuries,” notes the design team. The result: airflow elements that feel as timeless and intentional as the wood paneling, alabaster windows, and vaulted masonry above. Scroll Register in Black by Reggio Register Custom sizes from Reggio Register to match Oxford‑inspired architecture Lanier Family Foundation & Trowbridge Village Design

When we designed this home in 2011, we ensured that the geothermal loop would avoid a future pool. Eleven years later, the dream is complete. Many of the cabana’s elements match the house. Adding a full outdoor kitchen complete with a 1/2 bath, sauna, outdoor shower, and water fountain with bottle filler, and lots of room for entertaining makes it the favorite family hangout. When viewed from the main house, one looks through the cabana into the virgin forest beyond.

Basketball Court
Basement - large craftsman basement idea in Salt Lake City

Bathroom - bathroom idea in New York

Minimalist dining room photo in Singapore

The owners of this home in Newton, MA, were happy with the house, the neighborhood, and the commute to Boston, but the kitchen was a big problem both aesthetically and functionally. It had gotten so bad, in fact, that the wife was removing the doors to all the upper cabinets to eliminate as much of her dislike as possible. When Red House finally started construction, almost all of the doors had been removed and stored in the shed out back. This client wanted an open, airy feel to the kitchen; she wanted to avoid any upper cabinets with solid doors, and she had to have inset cabinets. These were were the priorities in the design of the kitchen. What she ended up with was an open and bright kitchen with an eat at island, beautiful glass display cabinet, open shelves, and an incredibly functional working kitchen by Red House. Photography exclusively for Red House Custom Building by Aaron Usher Photography Instagram: @redhousedesignbuild

Example of a backyard rectangular pool landscaping design in Minneapolis

The homeowners wanted to transform an outdated kitchen into a modern, high-performance space designed for a serious home cook. Their goal was to integrate premium appliances—specifically a Wolf range and a high-capacity hood system—while avoiding the cost and disruption of a full kitchen replacement. This project focused on thoughtful design, strategic reuse of existing elements, and custom solutions that delivered a refined contemporary aesthetic without compromising functionality or efficiency.