This Kirkland kitchen and dining addition transformed a tight 1970s galley layout into a spacious, entertainer-ready kitchen designed for modern living. To create the room the homeowners needed, the southwest exterior wall was removed, and a carefully planned addition expanded the footprint, while eliminating the partial wall between the kitchen and dining room, opening the floor plan for better flow and connection. The new space features white Bellmont shaker cabinetry, PentalQuartz® Zion countertops, and warm chestnut bamboo flooring, layered with recessed lighting, statement pendants, and under-cabinet LEDs for a bright, functional finish. The expanded layout also allowed for a full laundry room and a generous walk-in pantry with built-in storage and a frosted glass door etched with “Pantry.” High-performance appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range, pot filler, and apron-front farmhouse sink, complete the chef-ready design.

This 1950s 6’x8’ bathroom was reimagined to match the vision of a young professional couple seeking a sleek, luxurious design. Better Builders transformed the cramped space by removing the tub and installing a curbless shower with a linear drain and glass wall, creating an open and airy feel. To visually expand the room, smokey gray tile was installed throughout, paired with striking blue granite slab accents inspired by the homeowners’ travels. Creative storage solutions included a floating teak shelf that extends seamlessly across the back wall and a compact vanity replacing the pedestal sink for added counter space. Modern fixtures, including a Bluetooth-enabled Robern lighted medicine cabinet, completed the transformation, delivering both style and functionality. Thoughtful design choices and innovative space planning solutions maximized every inch of this small bathroom, bringing the client’s vision to life.

Completed in 2015, the Othello House was designed by PRDG Architecture + Design and built by Better Builders as a striking example of modern living in West Seattle. Though the homeowners chose not to pursue formal certification, the project was built to meet the rigorous standards of a Five-Star Built Green™ home. From the ground up, sustainability and style were equally prioritized. The build preserved native vegetation, retained mature trees on-site, exceeded Washington State Energy Code requirements, and recycled over 70% of construction waste by weight. Recycled-content materials were thoughtfully incorporated throughout, reinforcing the home’s eco-conscious foundation. Large windows on all sides flood the interiors with natural light, while the surrounding landscaping is designed to highlight lush greenery and native plantings. The result is a home that combines premium modern design with environmental responsibility—proving that sustainable construction can also deliver the ultimate in comfort and function.

This Kirkland kitchen and dining addition transformed a tight 1970s galley layout into a spacious, entertainer-ready kitchen designed for modern living. To create the room the homeowners needed, the southwest exterior wall was removed, and a carefully planned addition expanded the footprint, while eliminating the partial wall between the kitchen and dining room, opening the floor plan for better flow and connection. The new space features white Bellmont shaker cabinetry, PentalQuartz® Zion countertops, and warm chestnut bamboo flooring, layered with recessed lighting, statement pendants, and under-cabinet LEDs for a bright, functional finish. The expanded layout also allowed for a full laundry room and a generous walk-in pantry with built-in storage and a frosted glass door etched with “Pantry.” High-performance appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range, pot filler, and apron-front farmhouse sink, complete the chef-ready design.

This close-up captures the refined material palette of a transitional powder room remodel. Against deep navy blue walls, a built-in wood vanity provides a warm, grounded feel that maximizes the small footprint. The vanity is paired with a durable white quartz countertop featuring subtle grey marble-style veining, a sleek matte black faucet, and matching minimalist hardware. The ambient glow from the backlit LED mirror reflects off the polished quartz surface and a delicate eucalyptus arrangement, creating a high-end "jewel box" atmosphere.

Modern Farmhouse style executed perfectly with great workmanship and attention to details in every corner of this San Clemente, CA home. | BetterLivingSoCal.com

This home is a good example of a BLD™ project. It looks much the same as others in it’s suburban setting, which is exactly the point. A successful BLD™ home – outside and inside – will have an appearance that is typical of similar homes in its community. This is a crucial characteristic of a BLD™ approach.

This modern transitional kitchen in Arbor Heights, Seattle, combines timeless aesthetic with practical design. Navy blue shaker cabinets contrast beautifully with white quartz countertops, while a bold Moroccan star and cross tile backsplash adds personality. A large kitchen island with open shelving provides storage and prep space, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Skylights, hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances complete this light-filled, functional layout, ideal for family living.

This homeowner’s story resonates with many who are considering aging in place. She loved her Normandy Park home but found that her bathroom no longer met her needs. While soaking in her jacuzzi tub had been a cherished routine, the high ledge made it increasingly difficult—and unsafe—to use. After experiencing a few falls, she knew it was time for a change. Initially, she contacted a national company specializing in ADA-compliant tubs, but they couldn’t retrofit her space. That’s when she called Better Builders. Together, we transformed her bathroom into a safe, functional, and beautifully designed retreat where she could relax without worry. By thoughtfully integrating accessible features without compromising aesthetics, we gave this homeowner a bathroom that meets her current needs and supports her ability to live independently for years to come.

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Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional drought-tolerant and full sun backyard water fountain landscape in Other.

Looking at two different views of this same home (this photo and previous), we can see how the grading from the garage area allows step free access to the first floor from the driveway. This approach resulted in a height difference from driveway to front porch of only a few inches. While creating at least one elegant, step free route into a home can be a design, budget, and engineering challenge, when planned from the outset many creative solutions can be applied. Next to the garage door is the cased opening to the gently sloping walkway which ascends to the level of the porch.

Modern Farmhouse style executed perfectly with great workmanship and attention to details in every corner of this San Clemente, CA home. | BetterLivingSoCal.com

In collaboration with architect Gustavo Penengo of PRDG Architecture & Design, Better Builders brought this bold contemporary vision to life. Built using modular construction on a steep lot once considered “unbuildable,” the home required a highly engineered foundation with H-piles driven 40 feet into the hillside. The offsite-built sections allowed for precision assembly and made possible dramatic cantilevers, expansive views of the Sound, and an energy-efficient design. The finished home showcases modern architecture at its finest—creative, sustainable, and perfectly suited to its unique site.

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Bathroom - transitional bathroom idea in Chicago

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Kitchen - modern light wood floor kitchen idea in Denver with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

For one devoted Seahawks fan, game day isn’t just about the kickoff; it’s about the entire experience. Living nearly 50 miles outside of the city made getting to Lumen Field a full-day commitment, so when the opportunity came to purchase a downtown penthouse in Belltown, the vision was clear: create the ultimate home base for entertaining, relaxing, and pre-gaming before every home game. Better Builders was brought in to transform the entire penthouse, reworking the entryway, kitchen, four bathrooms, and laundry room into a sleek, contemporary space with Seattle sports at its core. From the moment you step inside, the design sets the stage with bold lighting, high-end finishes, and a layout built for gathering. The kitchen was crafted with seamless entertaining in mind, while each bathroom was elevated with clean lines and modern touches. But the centerpiece is the living space. Designed around the ultimate TV and lighting setup, the room delivers an immersive viewing experience where every Seahawks play feels larger than life. It’s more than a remodel; it’s a celebration of Seattle spirit, bringing friends together for good food, big games, and unforgettable nights in the heart of the city.

Manufacturer: Starmark Style: Stratford w/ L Edge and Flat Slab Drawer Headers Finish: Cherry in Mocha Countertop: Select Surfaces Unlimited Quartz in “Carrara” Sinks: IPT Stainless Steel Under-mount; American Standard Studio Under-mount in White Faucets: Customer’s Own Backsplash Tile: Genesee Tile – 5” x 7” Cento per Cento ceramic tile in “Taupe” with random Cento per Cento Deco tiles Designer: Devon MOore Contractor/Installer: Jim Schwesig Tile Installer: Sterling Tile (Mike Shumard) Paint: Mike Yeip Flooring: J. Rohr

This Kirkland kitchen and dining addition transformed a tight 1970s galley layout into a spacious, entertainer-ready kitchen designed for modern living. To create the room the homeowners needed, the southwest exterior wall was removed, and a carefully planned addition expanded the footprint, while eliminating the partial wall between the kitchen and dining room, opening the floor plan for better flow and connection. The new space features white Bellmont shaker cabinetry, PentalQuartz® Zion countertops, and warm chestnut bamboo flooring, layered with recessed lighting, statement pendants, and under-cabinet LEDs for a bright, functional finish. The expanded layout also allowed for a full laundry room and a generous walk-in pantry with built-in storage and a frosted glass door etched with “Pantry.” High-performance appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range, pot filler, and apron-front farmhouse sink, complete the chef-ready design.