This customer made the very smart choice of enjoying their remodeling efforts a few years before selling it. In addition to the kitchen being outdated, it also was lacking in storage and also a feeling of being a little "closed in". Our solution was to remove all of the upper soffits/fur-downs to be replaced with taller upper cabinets, gaining considerably more storage. Additionally, we removed the upper bar on the peninsula countertop opening the room to the living room, bringing more light and a profound feeling of openness and inclusivity!

This customer made the very smart choice of enjoying their remodeling efforts a few years before selling it. In addition to the kitchen being outdated, it also was lacking in storage and also a feeling of being a little "closed in". Our solution was to remove all of the upper soffits/fur-downs to be replaced with taller upper cabinets, gaining considerably more storage. Additionally, we removed the upper bar on the peninsula countertop opening the room to the living room, bringing more light and a profound feeling of openness and inclusivity!

Matt Kocourek
Open concept kitchen - mid-sized transitional galley medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen idea in Kansas City with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, metallic backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Now you see it, now you don't. The sewing table folds and slips inside the drawer when not in use. The bookshelves are supported by a disappearing bracket beneath making them not only functional but almost a work of art.

This butler pantry was totally unusable because the drawers were as old as the house, they didn't work and the countertop height was very low. We had these made to meet all their specific needs. The roll out tray drawers are perfect for those odd and large shaped platters that never fit anywhere, the storage is perfect for all their entertaining pieces, plus the light from the window keeps this pass though bright and pretty. Joe Kwon Photography

When my client had to move from her company office to work at home, she set up in the dining room. Despite her best efforts, this was not the long-term solution she was looking for. My client realized she needed a dedicated space not on the main floor of the home. On one hand, having your office space right next to the kitchen is handy. On the other hand, it made separating work and home life was not that easy. The house was a ranch. In essence, the basement would run entire length of the home. As we came down the steps, we entered a time capsule. The house was built in the 1950’s. The walls were covered with original knotty pine paneling. There was a wood burning fireplace and considering this was a basement, high ceilings. In addition, there was everything her family could not store at their own homes. As we wound though the space, I though “wow this has potential”, Eventually, after walking through the laundry room we came to a small nicely lit room. This would be the office. My client looked at me and asked what I thought. Undoubtedly, I said, this can be a great workspace, but do you really want to walk through this basement and laundry to get here? Without reservation, my client said where do we start? Once the design was in place, we started the renovation. The knotty pine paneling had to go. Specifically, to add some insulation and control the dampness and humidity. The laundry room wall was relocated to create a hallway to the office. At the far end of the room, we designated a workout zone. Weights, mats, exercise bike and television are at the ready for morning or afternoon workouts. The space can be concealed by a folding screen for party time. Doors to an old closet under the stairs were relocated to the workout area for hidden storage. Now we had nice wall for a beautiful console and mirror for storage and serving during parties. In order to add architectural details, we covered the old ugly support columns with simple recessed millwork panels. This detail created a visual division between the bar area and the seating area in front of the fireplace. The old red brick on the fireplace surround was replaced with stack stone. A mantle was made from reclaimed wood. Additional reclaimed wood floating shelves left and right of the fireplace provides decorative display while maintaining a rustic element balancing the copper end table and leather swivel rocker. We found an amazing rug which tied all of the colors together further defining the gathering space. Russet and burnt orange became the accent color unifying each space. With a bit of whimsy, a rather unusual light fixture which looks like roots from a tree growing through the ceiling is a conversation piece. The office space is quite and removed from the main part of the basement. There is a desk large enough for multiple screens, a small bookcase holding office supplies and a comfortable chair for conference calls. Because working from home requires many online meetings, we added a shiplap wall painted in Hale Navy to contrast with the orange fabric on the chair. We finished the décor with a painting from my client’s father. This is the background online visitors will see. The last and best part of the renovation is the beautiful bar. My client is an avid collector of wine. She already had the EuroCave refrigerator, so I incorporated it into the design. The cabinets are painted Temptation Grey from Benjamin Moore. The counter tops are my favorite hard working quartzite Brown Fantasy. The backsplash is a combination of rustic wood and old tin ceiling like porcelain tiles. Together with the textures of the reclaimed wood and hide poofs balanced against the smooth finish of the cabinets, we created a comfortable luxury for relaxing. There is ample storage for bottles, cans, glasses, and anything else you can think of for a great party. In addition to the wine storage, we incorporated a beverage refrigerator, an ice maker, and a sink. Floating shelves with integrated lighting illuminate the back bar. The raised height of the front bar provides the perfect wine tasting and paring spot. I especially love the pendant lights which look like wine glasses. Finally, I selected carpet for the stairs and office. It is perfect for noise reduction. Meanwhile for the overall flooring, I specifically selected a high-performance vinyl plank floor. We often use this product as it is perfect to install on a concrete floor. It is soft to walk on, easy to clean and does not reduce the overall height of the space.

Mark Bosclair
Inspiration for a large mediterranean l-shaped dark wood floor enclosed kitchen remodel in Phoenix with an island, medium tone wood cabinets, tile countertops, multicolored backsplash, ceramic backsplash, paneled appliances, beige walls, a farmhouse sink and raised-panel cabinets

This customer made the very smart choice of enjoying their remodeling efforts a few years before selling it. In addition to the kitchen being outdated, it also was lacking in storage and also a feeling of being a little "closed in". Our solution was to remove all of the upper soffits/fur-downs to be replaced with taller upper cabinets, gaining considerably more storage. Additionally, we removed the upper bar on the peninsula countertop opening the room to the living room, bringing more light and a profound feeling of openness and inclusivity!

Our kitchen and bath designer, Claire, worked with the clients to design an amazing new kitchen (dubbed Not Your Average Island). The clients’ biggest headache was that the kitchen didn’t function for their family. They were limited with their current seating arrangement, their countertops were filled with appliances, proper storage solutions were lacking and the space was just not working well for them. With the banquette for the children to comfortably do their afternoon homework, additional island seating and enhanced function throughout, our designer Claire completely transformed this space. Her expertise created a one-of-a-kind (definitely not your average) island that was designed specifically for this wonderful family and allowed her to find a home for every piece and part (and more!) the homeowners use every day and the clients love their new kitchen! Photography: Scott Amundson Photography

The conversion of this iconic American barn into a Writer’s Studio was conceived of as a tranquil retreat with natural light and lush views to stimulate inspiration for both husband and wife. Originally used as a garage with two horse stalls, the existing stick framed structure provided a loft with ideal space and orientation for a secluded studio. Signature barn features were maintained and enhanced such as horizontal siding, trim, large barn doors, cupola, roof overhangs, and framing. New features added to compliment the contextual significance and sustainability aspect of the project were reclaimed lumber from a razed barn used as flooring, driftwood retrieved from the shores of the Hudson River used for trim, and distressing / wearing new wood finishes creating an aged look. Along with the efforts for maintaining the historic character of the barn, modern elements were also incorporated into the design to provide a more current ensemble based on its new use. Elements such a light fixtures, window configurations, plumbing fixtures and appliances were all modernized to appropriately represent the present way of life.

This customer made the very smart choice of enjoying their remodeling efforts a few years before selling it. In addition to the kitchen being outdated, it also was lacking in storage and also a feeling of being a little "closed in". Our solution was to remove all of the upper soffits/fur-downs to be replaced with taller upper cabinets, gaining considerably more storage. Additionally, we removed the upper bar on the peninsula countertop opening the room to the living room, bringing more light and a profound feeling of openness and inclusivity!

The result of creating a seamless, integral cabinet walkway was well worth the additional effort required. The concept was to mimic half-circle arches in the great room and throughout the home, but crafting the arch out of cabinetry and having it work on both sides was a challenge. However, the effect is phenomenal. Photo by Mike Kaskel

This eye-catching solid brass faucet with built-in soap pump is the winsome crown atop the large single-bowl sink and beautifully ties in with the lustrous gold veining in the counter tops and back splash. Made of a quartz and resin mix, the sink is durable and resistant to scratches and chips from dishes, utensils and even sharp knives. A lot of effort goes into selecting what goes into our designs, keeping functionality, durability and maintenance at the top of our list next to the design aesthetic. Photo: Zeke Ruelas

Originally a nearly three-story tall 1920’s European-styled home was turned into a modern villa for work and home. A series of low concrete retaining wall planters and steps gradually takes you up to the second level entry, grounding or anchoring the house into the site, as does a new wrap around veranda and trellis. Large eave overhangs on the upper roof were designed to give the home presence and were accented with a Mid-century orange color. The new master bedroom addition white box creates a better sense of entry and opens to the wrap around veranda at the opposite side. Inside the owners live on the lower floor and work on the upper floor with the garage basement for storage, archives and a ceramics studio. New windows and open spaces were created for the graphic designer owners; displaying their mid-century modern furnishings collection. A lot of effort went into attempting to lower the house visually by bringing the ground plane higher with the concrete retaining wall planters, steps, wrap around veranda and trellis, and the prominent roof with exaggerated overhangs. That the eaves were painted orange is a cool reflection of the owner’s Dutch heritage. Budget was a driver for the project and it was determined that the footprint of the home should have minimal extensions and that the new windows remain in the same relative locations as the old ones. Wall removal was utilized versus moving and building new walls where possible. Photo Credit: John Sutton Photography.

This large family room offers comfort and an 85" Samsung 4K TV. Speakers are hidden in the ceiling. Notice the tiny indoor security camera.
Inspiration for a large coastal open concept dark wood floor home design remodel in Miami with gray walls and a media wall

This multi-level island features seating at counter height on both long sides as well as raised bar seating on the back which is open to the great room. The microwave drawer is conveniently located and the beverage center holds both wines and other drinks in close proximity. Designed by Delicious Kitchens & Interiors, LLC This project was featured on The Palace Theatre's Kitchen Tour and was part of a talented collaborative effort including but not limited to the teams at L. Newman Associates/Paul Mansback Inc., RE Marble and Granite, Capital Kitchens and Delicious Kitchens & Interiors, LLC.

This collaborative effort combined our clear acrylic wine racks with glass subway tiles and a rustic design motif. The team at Gina McGuire Interiors was a pleasure to work with; their creativity and attention to detail always make for stunning spaces. This unique project demonstrates the versatility of clear acrylic to seamlessly blend with any design aesthetic.

Custom Dry bar with unique wine storage and beverage center
Small beach style home bar photo

Quality craftsmanship, superior service, and communication go hand in hand with cost management and integrity as the key ingredients for building a home. For over 25 years, Vanco Construction has built the dreams of homeowners in Short Hills, NJ., as well as in the surrounding Morris County communities of Mendham, Bernardsville, Basking Ridge and New Vernon. "Our approach begins with a clear understanding that producing a dream project is a team effort," explains Steve Vanadia, president of Vanco Construction. "The homeowner, builder, architect and interior designer must work as a team."