Nearly two decades ago now, Susan and her husband put a letter in the mailbox of this eastside home: "If you have any interest in selling, please reach out." But really, who would give up a Flansburgh House? Fast forward to 2020, when the house went on the market! By then it was clear that three children and a busy home design studio couldn't be crammed into this efficient footprint. But what's second best to moving into your dream home? Being asked to redesign the functional core for the family that was. In this classic Flansburgh layout, all the rooms align tidily in a square around a central hall and open air atrium. As such, all the spaces are both connected to one another and also private; and all allow for visual access to the outdoors in two directions—toward the atrium and toward the exterior. All except, in this case, the utilitarian galley kitchen. That space, oft-relegated to second class in midcentury architecture, got the shaft, with narrow doorways on two ends and no good visual access to the atrium or the outside. Who spends time in the kitchen anyway? As is often the case with even the very best midcentury architecture, the kitchen at the Flansburgh House needed to be modernized; appliances and cabinetry have come a long way since 1970, but our culture has evolved too, becoming more casual and open in ways we at SYH believe are here to stay. People (gasp!) do spend time—lots of time!—in their kitchens! Nonetheless, our goal was to make this kitchen look as if it had been designed this way by Earl Flansburgh himself. The house came to us full of bold, bright color. We edited out some of it (along with the walls it was on) but kept and built upon the stunning red, orange and yellow closet doors in the family room adjacent to the kitchen. That pop was balanced by a few colorful midcentury pieces that our clients already owned, and the stunning light and verdant green coming in from both the atrium and the perimeter of the house, not to mention the many skylights. Thus, the rest of the space just needed to quiet down and be a beautiful, if neutral, foil. White terrazzo tile grounds custom plywood and black cabinetry, offset by a half wall that offers both camouflage for the cooking mess and also storage below, hidden behind seamless oak tambour. Contractor: Rusty Peterson Cabinetry: Stoll's Woodworking Photographer: Sarah Shields

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

This custom built home was designed for a couple who were nearly retirement and caring for an elderly parent who required the use of a wheel chair. All of the spaces were designed with handicap accessibility, universal design, living-in-place and aging-in-place concepts in mind. The kitchen has both standing and seated prep areas, recessed knee space at the cooktop and bathroom sinks, raised washer and dryer, ergonomically placed appliances, wall oven, hidden microwave, wide openings and doors, easy maneuvering space and a perfect blend of private and public areas. The Transitional design style blends modern and traditional elements in a balanced and pleasing way. An abundance of natural light supported by well designed artificial light sources keeps the home safe, pleasant and inviting.

The Setup This project reimagines a shared bathroom for three young sisters, balancing functionality, aesthetics, and future growth. Originally affected by a flood, the space required a full renovation. The homeowners initially planned to retain the existing layout, but the need to incorporate a second-floor washer and dryer prompted a fresh approach to the design. Design objectives: Create a layout that accommodates three growing sisters while ensuring privacy and functionality. Win space for a new second-floor stacked washer and dryer to meet the family’s laundry needs. Design a bathroom that feels youthful yet timeless, growing with the girls as they transition from toddlers to teens. Include ample storage for everyday essentials. The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: The need to incorporate a washer and dryer without compromising existing bedroom/bathroom storage. Creating functional storage for a shared bathroom. Designing a space that is both child-friendly and timeless. Maximizing privacy in a shared bathroom. Adding personality without making the space feel overly juvenile. The Renewed Space Design solutions: Repurposed a small walk-in closet in an adjacent bedroom to house a stackable washer and dryer accessible from the hallway. Built a new, larger closet on the opposite side to maintain bedroom storage. Installed spacious base cabinets and drawers in each vanity area, ensuring sufficient storage for all three sisters. Used feminine yet subtle plaid patterned mosaic tiles, neutral countertops with light movement, and soft tones to ensure longevity and adaptability. Improved the Jill-and-Jill layout with two separate vanity areas and a shared toilet and shower zone. Kept pocket doors for enhanced privacy and space efficiency. Incorporated blingy light fixtures, decorative mirrors, and hooks for towels to strike the perfect balance between fun and elegance. This refreshed bathroom blends thoughtful functionality with a timeless aesthetic, meeting the immediate needs of a busy household while creating a space that can adapt to the family’s future.

This beautifully remodeled basement is the ultimate blend of functionality and refined style. Designed with both entertaining and everyday living in mind, the space features a stunning full bar with quartz countertops, floating wood shelves, and a bold herringbone tile backsplash that adds texture and personality. The bar area opens seamlessly to the game room, complete with a rustic wood pool table, shuffleboard, and direct walkout access through French doors. The entire basement boasts warm wood-look flooring, exposed brick columns, and elegant light fixtures that lend a sophisticated, industrial-chic vibe. The large peninsula with bar seating offers the perfect spot to gather with friends and family, while the open-concept layout keeps everyone connected. In a clever design twist, a hidden bookshelf door adds character and provides access to the home’s HVAC system—tucked discreetly out of view. Opposite, a set of black French doors invites you into a dedicated wine room with custom X-style wine storage and a cozy bistro table. Whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this basement remodel delivers a perfect balance of comfort, style, and purpose-built spaces that elevate everyday living.

This kitchen isn’t just a pretty face—it’s built to perform! Think maxed-out storage, a massive island that does it all, bold finishes, and plenty of room to breathe. Want your kitchen to do more? Here are ways to get the most out of your space: Take cabinets all the way up—more storage, less clutter. Use your island for seating, prep, and storage. Mix light and dark finishes for a modern, balanced look. We also added open shelving. Open shelving isn't just about storage—it’s about creating a stunning focal point that breathes life into your kitchen! Here, we designed custom floating shelves that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding space, thanks to a striking backsplash tile that continues from the kitchen walls. The result? A cohesive, elevated aesthetic that balances both beauty and practicality. Maximize your open shelving with these design tips: Curate with intention – Display a mix of functional and decorative pieces to create visual interest: cookbooks, plateware, and art. Stick to a color palette – Keep it cohesive by coordinating dishware, frames, and accessories. Layer textures – Combine ceramics, glass, and natural elements like wood or greenery for added depth. Prioritize accessibility – Keep everyday essentials within reach while showcasing special pieces up top.

A stylish and welcoming transition from upper levels to the lower level retreat, this basement staircase remodel is all about details. The elegant iron balusters paired with a warm wooden handrail complement the surrounding This beautifully remodeled basement is the ultimate blend of functionality and refined style. Designed with both entertaining and everyday living in mind, the space features a stunning full bar with quartz countertops, floating wood shelves, and a bold herringbone wallpaper backsplash that adds texture and personality. The bar area opens seamlessly to the game room, complete with a rustic wood pool table, shuffleboard, and direct walkout access through French doors. The entire basement boasts warm wood-look flooring, exposed brick columns, and elegant light fixtures that lend a sophisticated, industrial-chic vibe. The large peninsula with bar seating offers the perfect spot to gather with friends and family, while the open-concept layout keeps everyone connected. In a clever design twist, a hidden bookshelf door adds character and provides access to the home’s HVAC system—tucked discreetly out of view. Opposite, a set of black French doors invites you into a dedicated wine room with custom X-style wine storage and a cozy bistro table. Whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this basement remodel delivers a perfect balance of comfort, style, and purpose-built spaces that elevate everyday living.

New doors, new flooring, new cabinets and we removed the tub. You will also notice that we removed the toilet room doors and widened the opening. We added several hand bars for stability. The shower has no curb to make it easy to get into without the tripping hazard. Hand bars strategically place for an aid to balance. Notice the body sprayers, and hand held wand. The hand bars on the lower level do double duty as a shampoo holder.

Gracefully curving through the home, this stunning stair is more than just an access point. It’s an experience. White oak handrail guides the hand upward, following the gentle sweep of the steps. The white risers balance the white oak treads, while the black metal balusters add a contemporary touch. Painted risers provide contrast to the warm oak treads, while black metal balusters introduce a crisp, contemporary edge. Framed by tall windows and illuminated by pendant lighting, the staircase becomes a study in precision and balance, where light, material, and form come together. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This close-up reveals the fresh sophistication of the newly renovated tub and shower area in this Mission Viejo guest bathroom. The sleek, large-format porcelain tiles in a soft horizontal grain create a contemporary yet calming backdrop. A brushed nickel rain showerhead paired with a handheld sprayer provides both luxury and versatility, perfect for daily use or a spa-like experience. The custom-built recessed niche offers practical, stylish storage for bath essentials, while the grab bar ensures safety without compromising on design. The clean lines of the new tub and the subtle contrast of neutral tones make the space feel open and serene. Thoughtfully chosen materials and finishes deliver both function and elegance. This transformation reflects a perfect balance of modern style, comfort, and accessibility.

In 2021, Reynard Architectural Designs accepted its first design project. Our team partnered with Tobars Dobbs to transform a tiny, abandoned ranch in West Atlanta into an expansive contemporary modern home. The first floor, existing brickwork, and main structure where kept in tact. The original ranch was a closed floor plan with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with an extended hallway. All the interior finishes, appliances and walls were removed to convert the home into an open floor plan that maximizes space on the first floor. The finished home is a modern contemporary design that doubled the number of bedrooms, created four accessible outdoor decks, and created a fresh look that balances simplicity with plenty of character. The home on Shirley Street takes advantage of minimalist/modern design elements, clean white countertops and cupboards that are complimented nicely by classic stainless steel finishes. The original ranch home was once confined and segmented. Now, an open stairway that is bathed in natural light leads to the main living space above. Low profile jack and jill vanity mirrors, a soaker tub with a view, and a spacious shower all highlight the serene master bathroom. The master bedroom makes great use of light with a small, private transom above the bed and easy outdoor access to a private patio deck behind the main sleeping quarters. A private getaway shaded by the surrounding live oaks is just what's needed after a long day at work. The home on Shirley Street features four of these private patio decks that provide additional entertainment and relaxation space.

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

Gracefully curving through the home, this stunning stair is more than just an access point. It’s an experience. White oak handrail guides the hand upward, following the gentle sweep of the steps. The white risers balance the white oak treads, while the black metal balusters add a contemporary touch. Painted risers provide contrast to the warm oak treads, while black metal balusters introduce a crisp, contemporary edge. Framed by tall windows and illuminated by pendant lighting, the staircase becomes a study in precision and balance, where light, material, and form come together. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Elevated Living in Highland Park ​Blairsville, Georgia — Located in the Highland Park community of North Georgia, “Winding Ridge,” designed by James Knight, combines natural materials with clean, contemporary design for a home that is both functional and well-suited to its mountain setting. ​ Home Details ​ The home includes 5,808 heated square feet, organized to support both everyday living and hosting guests. The exterior features white board-and-batten siding, dark roofing, and warm wood accents for a balanced, modern mountain aesthetic. ​ Main Level: Three bedrooms and three bathrooms provide convenient, stair-free living. Upper Level: The primary suite occupies the entire top floor, offering added privacy and access to a balcony with views of the surrounding Blue Ridge mountains. Lower Level: Two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms create flexible space for guests, extended family, or recreation Practical Connections The layout prioritizes efficiency and organization. A mudroom and laundry room connect the two-car garage to the main living areas, creating a practical transition space. Above the garage, a semi-attached in-law suite offers a private living area that remains connected to the main home while allowing for independence.​ Outdoor Living Outdoor spaces are designed to function as an extension of the interior. The covered entertaining area includes: ​ A kitchenette for outdoor meals A stone fireplace with seating beneath a timber-frame ceiling Expansive decking overlooking the North Georgia mountain ​ Winding Ridge is a thoughtfully planned custom home that balances scale, comfort, and connection to its surroundings.

Gracefully curving through the home, this stunning stair is more than just an access point. It’s an experience. White oak handrail guides the hand upward, following the gentle sweep of the steps. The white risers balance the white oak treads, while the black metal balusters add a contemporary touch. Painted risers provide contrast to the warm oak treads, while black metal balusters introduce a crisp, contemporary edge. Framed by tall windows and illuminated by pendant lighting, the staircase becomes a study in precision and balance, where light, material, and form come together. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This 1,800 sq ft all-season cottage is designed to make the most of its breathtaking south-facing view of the Ottawa River. Every aspect of the cottage was carefully considered to optimize the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring the water views are an integral part of daily life. At the heart of the cottage is the expansive open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area, featuring a striking stone fireplace and vaulted ceilings. An abundance of windows along the river-facing side allows natural light to flood the space while offering uninterrupted views of the water. Strategic design elements, including retractable canopies, provide shade during hot summer months while allowing for increased sunlight during the winter to enhance the warmth and comfort of the interiors. Perfect for entertaining, the spacious sunroom serves as a flexible space for both intimate gatherings and larger groups. It includes a second stone fireplace and ample room for dining and lounging, with seamless access to the outdoor deck. For sun lovers, the deck provides the perfect spot to bask in the warmth, while the canopy offers a shady retreat to enjoy the river views during hot days. A cozy firepit patio closer to the water creates an inviting space for evening gatherings, complete with the charm of a crackling fire and views of the river. Off the sunroom, a screened porch offers a shaded escape, providing relief from the heat and bugs during the summer afternoons. This porch is conveniently located next to the BBQ area, allowing for easy outdoor cooking and socializing. The primary bedroom suite includes a bedroom partition wall that allows the bed to face the river while providing unimpeded access to the walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. The main level also includes a butler’s pantry, office, full bathroom, and a second bedroom ideal for family. The lower level expands the living space further, offering four additional guest bedrooms, a bunk room for the kids, ample storage, a laundry room, and a versatile games room. With thoughtful design and functional spaces, this cottage balances comfort, style, and connection to nature.

This 1,800 sq ft all-season cottage is designed to make the most of its breathtaking south-facing view of the Ottawa River. Every aspect of the cottage was carefully considered to optimize the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring the water views are an integral part of daily life. At the heart of the cottage is the expansive open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area, featuring a striking stone fireplace and vaulted ceilings. An abundance of windows along the river-facing side allows natural light to flood the space while offering uninterrupted views of the water. Strategic design elements, including retractable canopies, provide shade during hot summer months while allowing for increased sunlight during the winter to enhance the warmth and comfort of the interiors. Perfect for entertaining, the spacious sunroom serves as a flexible space for both intimate gatherings and larger groups. It includes a second stone fireplace and ample room for dining and lounging, with seamless access to the outdoor deck. For sun lovers, the deck provides the perfect spot to bask in the warmth, while the canopy offers a shady retreat to enjoy the river views during hot days. A cozy firepit patio closer to the water creates an inviting space for evening gatherings, complete with the charm of a crackling fire and views of the river. Off the sunroom, a screened porch offers a shaded escape, providing relief from the heat and bugs during the summer afternoons. This porch is conveniently located next to the BBQ area, allowing for easy outdoor cooking and socializing. The primary bedroom suite includes a bedroom partition wall that allows the bed to face the river while providing unimpeded access to the walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. The main level also includes a butler’s pantry, office, full bathroom, and a second bedroom ideal for family. The lower level expands the living space further, offering four additional guest bedrooms, a bunk room for the kids, ample storage, a laundry room, and a versatile games room. With thoughtful design and functional spaces, this cottage balances comfort, style, and connection to nature.

We are delighted to have completed the radical transformation of a tired detached property in South Croydon. When they appointed Granit, our clients were living in the property which had previously been divided into a number of flats. The historic sub-division had resulted in an extremely poor use of space with redundant staircases, kitchens and bathrooms throughout. Our clients sought to reconfigure the property back into a single dwelling for his growing family. Our client had an eye for design and was keen to balance contemporary design whilst maintaining as much of the character of the original house. Maximising natural light, space and establishing a visual and physical connection were also key drivers for the design. Owing to the size of the property, it became apparent that reconfiguration rather than extension provided the solution to meet the brief. A metal clad ‘intervention’ was introduced to the rear facade. This created a strong horizontal element creating a visual balance with the vertical nature of the three storey gable. The metal cladding specified echoed the colour of the red brick string courses tying old with new. Slender frame sliding doors provide access and views of the large garden. The central circulation space was transformed by the introduction of a double height glazed slot wrapping up the rear facade and onto the roof. This allows daylight to permeate into the heart of the otherwise dark deep floor plan. The staircase was reconfigured into a series of landings looking down over the main void space below and out towards the tree canopies at the rear of the garden. The introduction of double pocket doors throughout the ground floor creates a series of interconnected spaces and the whitewashed Larch flooring flows seamlessly from room to room. A bold palette of colours and materials lends character and texture throughout the property. The end result is a spacious yet cosy environment for the family to inhabit for years to come.

This 1,800 sq ft all-season cottage is designed to make the most of its breathtaking south-facing view of the Ottawa River. Every aspect of the cottage was carefully considered to optimize the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring the water views are an integral part of daily life. At the heart of the cottage is the expansive open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area, featuring a striking stone fireplace and vaulted ceilings. An abundance of windows along the river-facing side allows natural light to flood the space while offering uninterrupted views of the water. Strategic design elements, including retractable canopies, provide shade during hot summer months while allowing for increased sunlight during the winter to enhance the warmth and comfort of the interiors. Perfect for entertaining, the spacious sunroom serves as a flexible space for both intimate gatherings and larger groups. It includes a second stone fireplace and ample room for dining and lounging, with seamless access to the outdoor deck. For sun lovers, the deck provides the perfect spot to bask in the warmth, while the canopy offers a shady retreat to enjoy the river views during hot days. A cozy firepit patio closer to the water creates an inviting space for evening gatherings, complete with the charm of a crackling fire and views of the river. Off the sunroom, a screened porch offers a shaded escape, providing relief from the heat and bugs during the summer afternoons. This porch is conveniently located next to the BBQ area, allowing for easy outdoor cooking and socializing. The primary bedroom suite includes a bedroom partition wall that allows the bed to face the river while providing unimpeded access to the walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. The main level also includes a butler’s pantry, office, full bathroom, and a second bedroom ideal for family. The lower level expands the living space further, offering four additional guest bedrooms, a bunk room for the kids, ample storage, a laundry room, and a versatile games room. With thoughtful design and functional spaces, this cottage balances comfort, style, and connection to nature.