This narrow and steep staircase is the perfect addition to this North Vancouver residence. The clients now have full access down a previously unusable side of the house. The addition of plants along the edge help soften the transition between hardscape and softscape.

An addition to a home designed by RBA several years ago, the added elements include a large family room with a swimming pool, spa, terrace and a sunken landscaped play area. Taking aesthetic cues from the original structure, which was laid out as a series of linked gable roof pavilions, the new 1,200 sf building addition invites natural light from multiple sides. The family room features a Doug Fir wood slat ceiling and radiantly heated slate floors, lending warmth to a space complete with an entertainment center and billiards table. A meticulous attention to detail is displayed in the rich custom cabinetry throughout, crafted from exotic ribbon mahogany. On one side of the room, an expansive multi-panel sliding door leads to a sun-drenched pool deck complete with a turquoise-blue tiled spa nestled under a wood framed canopy. Opposite the pool, and also accessible from the family room, is an intimate private courtyard - perfect for outdoor entertainment gathered around the communal dining table. The clients' displayed collection of vintage surf boards, heirlooms celebrating the family's Australian heritage, infuse these casual spaces with timeless appeal. The exterior materials of stucco-covered Rastra wall blocks and standing seam metal roofs, seamlessly blend the addition with the existing home - creating an inviting family-friendly compound within a lush park-like setting. Josh Partee AIAP, ASMP, LEED AP / Architectural Photographer

Constructed in two phases, this renovation, with a few small additions, touched nearly every room in this late ‘50’s ranch house. The owners raised their family within the original walls and love the house’s location, which is not far from town and also borders conservation land. But they didn’t love how chopped up the house was and the lack of exposure to natural daylight and views of the lush rear woods. Plus, they were ready to de-clutter for a more stream-lined look. As a result, KHS collaborated with them to create a quiet, clean design to support the lifestyle they aspire to in retirement. To transform the original ranch house, KHS proposed several significant changes that would make way for a number of related improvements. Proposed changes included the removal of the attached enclosed breezeway (which had included a stair to the basement living space) and the two-car garage it partially wrapped, which had blocked vital eastern daylight from accessing the interior. Together the breezeway and garage had also contributed to a long, flush front façade. In its stead, KHS proposed a new two-car carport, attached storage shed, and exterior basement stair in a new location. The carport is bumped closer to the street to relieve the flush front facade and to allow access behind it to eastern daylight in a relocated rear kitchen. KHS also proposed a new, single, more prominent front entry, closer to the driveway to replace the former secondary entrance into the dark breezeway and a more formal main entrance that had been located much farther down the facade and curiously bordered the bedroom wing. Inside, low ceilings and soffits in the primary family common areas were removed to create a cathedral ceiling (with rod ties) over a reconfigured semi-open living, dining, and kitchen space. A new gas fireplace serving the relocated dining area -- defined by a new built-in banquette in a new bay window -- was designed to back up on the existing wood-burning fireplace that continues to serve the living area. A shared full bath, serving two guest bedrooms on the main level, was reconfigured, and additional square footage was captured for a reconfigured master bathroom off the existing master bedroom. A new whole-house color palette, including new finishes and new cabinetry, complete the transformation. Today, the owners enjoy a fresh and airy re-imagining of their familiar ranch house. Photos by Katie Hutchison

This 10,000 sf townhouse sits on one of Manhattan’s most beautiful Upper East Side streets and so the goal of the project was to return the house to its original grandeur. Previously a Kips Bay designer showcase house, the rooms were each designed in a differing style and therefore the lack of cohesion and flow made the house seem choppy. In addition, much of the interior was superficial in the sense that plumbing fixtures were not all connected, walls were “false walls” built in front of existing and much of the construction had to be rebuilt. The scope included creating a large gourmet kitchen in the rear of the ground floor by closing off the winding corridor and creating a new door opening centered on the main entry hall with a paneled arched pocket door mimicking the original detailing of the parlor floor. The kitchen has a Calacatta Gold stone center island and dinning area flanked by counters that run the length of the east and west walls with glass front upper cabinets. A built-in buffet on the south wall anchors the space. A mud room, with access to the delivery entrance and additional storage space was added off the kitchen. A new slim profile steel and glass French door provides access to a new steel rear deck and stairs to the rear yard. On the second floor, a new tile floor was added throughout and RRA designed new stone mantle pieces fabricated from England in the living and dining rooms. On the 3rd floor, a new wall was constructed in the 11’ wide central hallway to allow a new 135 sf master closet with custom designed built-in storage units and accessories. This concept was carried through to the 4th floor on a smaller scale and 4 new storage closets were added in the hallway. The existing bathroom on the 4th Floor was gutted and redesigned including a new 5’x5’ extra deep soaking tub and new fixtures. Silver travertine tiles were used throughout to give the room a durable, waterproof finish while also providing a warm, luxurious feel. The 5th floor was converted into a playroom and TV room for the family’s two young children and was outfitted with chalkboard paint along the entire east wall in the play area and a bold color block wall treatment in the TV room. A new cork floor was installed for durability and resilience to lots of activity yet providing a soft and sustainable floor treatment for its intended user. A full laundry room was also created floor with new cabinetry, plumbing, and floor and wall tile. Additionally, 3 full baths and a powder room were refitted with tumbled travertine tiles on the top two floors. The exterior of the building was refurbished and new lighting and painted doors and frames were installed in accordance with Landmark designation. An additional challenge on the project was that a previously built extension on the PH level was illegally overbuilt and the property had received a violation. A 9 month process of filing drawings, completing zoning analyses and meetings with the DOB Commissioners ensued to get the extension approved allowing us to obtain a permit for the remainder of the work and complete the Certificate of Occupancy. In spite of the complex process and scattered program, the completed townhouse has a cohesive aesthetic throughout, with upgraded amenities befitting this grand representation of elite New York living.

Rockaway Park - Legal Two Family Exclusive: PS 114 school district. One block from the beach. Two story brick home that was fully pointed 8 years ago. 3 bedrooms / one bath over 2 bedrooms / one renovated bath and kitchen. Original hardwood floors throughout are in pristine condition. Rear enclosed staircase leads to a full basement, giving both floors private access. This is ideal for setting up either unit as a duplex apartment. Three porches offer ample exterior access. Second floor offers a front and rear terrace. First floor offers a front porch. Full private driveway fits 5 cars. Two car garage. Walking distance to transportation, restaurants, shopping, houses of worship and the best beach in the Northeast. Offered at $789,000

Arrive & see the uninterrupted valley views! RECENTLY RENOVATED custom-built rancher style family home in prestigious BECKWITH PARK. Featuring HUGE panels of large windows & skylights allowing an abundance of natural light. Renovated several items incl pristine sanded & refinished modern stained oak floorings. Kitchen is an entertainer's dream with new quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, & breakfast bar where you can eat & enjoy the incredible views. Freshly painted living room & office, PLUS lower level has been drywalled & painted. Main level master includes separate access to the deck, & a spa like ensuite glass block art deco features. Also, an office/den/family room & 2 other large bedrooms & bathrooms, one that lives like a 2nd master bedroom with an en-suite or would be a great SUITE as it has its own exterior access! Down has bonus room that easily can be converted into a 1/2 bedroom or 3rd possible SUITE. Also featuring a big garage, private courtyard garden & a wrap-around balcony that will take your breath away! | Karen Love* (250) 727-5868 | www.KarenLove.com RE/MAX Alliance |

This 10,000 sf townhouse sits on one of Manhattan’s most beautiful Upper East Side streets and so the goal of the project was to return the house to its original grandeur. Previously a Kips Bay designer showcase house, the rooms were each designed in a differing style and therefore the lack of cohesion and flow made the house seem choppy. In addition, much of the interior was superficial in the sense that plumbing fixtures were not all connected, walls were “false walls” built in front of existing and much of the construction had to be rebuilt. The scope included creating a large gourmet kitchen in the rear of the ground floor by closing off the winding corridor and creating a new door opening centered on the main entry hall with a paneled arched pocket door mimicking the original detailing of the parlor floor. The kitchen has a Calacatta Gold stone center island and dinning area flanked by counters that run the length of the east and west walls with glass front upper cabinets. A built-in buffet on the south wall anchors the space. A mud room, with access to the delivery entrance and additional storage space was added off the kitchen. A new slim profile steel and glass French door provides access to a new steel rear deck and stairs to the rear yard. On the second floor, a new tile floor was added throughout and RRA designed new stone mantle pieces fabricated from England in the living and dining rooms. On the 3rd floor, a new wall was constructed in the 11’ wide central hallway to allow a new 135 sf master closet with custom designed built-in storage units and accessories. This concept was carried through to the 4th floor on a smaller scale and 4 new storage closets were added in the hallway. The existing bathroom on the 4th Floor was gutted and redesigned including a new 5’x5’ extra deep soaking tub and new fixtures. Silver travertine tiles were used throughout to give the room a durable, waterproof finish while also providing a warm, luxurious feel. The 5th floor was converted into a playroom and TV room for the family’s two young children and was outfitted with chalkboard paint along the entire east wall in the play area and a bold color block wall treatment in the TV room. A new cork floor was installed for durability and resilience to lots of activity yet providing a soft and sustainable floor treatment for its intended user. A full laundry room was also created floor with new cabinetry, plumbing, and floor and wall tile. Additionally, 3 full baths and a powder room were refitted with tumbled travertine tiles on the top two floors. The exterior of the building was refurbished and new lighting and painted doors and frames were installed in accordance with Landmark designation. An additional challenge on the project was that a previously built extension on the PH level was illegally overbuilt and the property had received a violation. A 9 month process of filing drawings, completing zoning analyses and meetings with the DOB Commissioners ensued to get the extension approved allowing us to obtain a permit for the remainder of the work and complete the Certificate of Occupancy. In spite of the complex process and scattered program, the completed townhouse has a cohesive aesthetic throughout, with upgraded amenities befitting this grand representation of elite New York living.

Full floor of beautiful brownstone with terrace and seasonal NYC views on coveted Hudson Street block. Just across from Steven’s Park, this 2 bedroom, 1 bath home features open living space with exposed brick, hardwood floors, central air conditioning & laundry in home. Master bedroom with double closets and great light, updated bath with pedestal sink and additional basement storage. Easy access to Hoboken’s world-class waterfront, shopping, dining, parks and transportation. Rental parking only 1 block away.

AL DEEN
Arts and crafts bathroom photo in Columbus

This adorable kitchen in Point Loma, CA is now open to the family room, small in spaces but united with a nature-inspired color palette. The kitchen went through an extensive remodel removing walls, raised ceiling, exposing the beam and a new glass door for the back entry and now this small kitchen feel open and spacious. The cabinetry features shaker elements―clean lines, plain trim, and little ornamentation― great for transitional decor. Functional fixtures and modern appliances peacefully coexist with the mosaic marble backsplash. Hidden behind the door panels is a 30” Subzero refrigerator/freezer integrated nicely to keep the kitchen plan, clean and understated. The corner sink is recessed back adding a nice detail but even more importantly a more accessible corner access to the kitchen windows. Accessories and details added to the kitchen cabinets give this chef everything she was looking for with a spice pullout, knife block pullout and rollouts to top off the new cabinets. When space is tight it is a great option for a small family to open up the walls and add a counter where the family can dine. On the walls, neutral gray painted create a soothing atmosphere. Adjacent to the kitchen was a cramped room that functioned as a workout room and laundry room. By changing some wall space, closing in a door and removing a closet the new space has great storage and is more open and functional for a quick workout. In the family room the fireplace was re-tiled with a concrete looking porcelain tile topped off with a rustic beam mantle. Combined with new home furnishings to make the most of a small space this new family room is both functional and a great place for the couple to spend time with each other on a daily basis and to entertain guest and a new space has been created with the feel of a comfortable cozy space for all to enjoy. Contractor: CairnsCraft Remodeling Designer: Bonnie Bogley Catlin Photogtapher: Jon Upson

Remodeled bathroom, planning for the future with an accessible shower. Double swinging shower doors. Recessed mirrors/medicine cabinets. Slide out storage on vanity ends. Douglas Wade Photography

A couple hired us as the professional remodeling contractor to update the first floor of their Brookfield, WI home. The project included the kitchen, family room entertainment center, laundry room and mudroom. The goal was to improve the functionality of the space, improving prep space and storage. Their house had a traditional style, so the homeowners chose a transitional style with wood and natural elements. Kitchen Remodel We wanted to give the kitchen a more streamlined, contemporary feel. We removed the soffits, took the cabinetry to the ceiling, and opened the space. Cherry cabinets line the perimeter of the kitchen with a soft gray island. We kept a desk area in the kitchen, which can be used as a sideboard when hosting parties. This kitchen has many storage and organizational features. The interior cabinet organizers include: a tray/cutting board cabinet, a pull-out pantry, a pull-out drawer for trash/compost/dog food, dish peg drawers, a corner carousel and pot/pan drawers. The couple wanted more countertop space in their kitchen. We added an island with a black walnut butcher block table height seating area. The low height makes the space feel open and accessible to their grandchildren who visit. The island countertop is one of the highlights of the space. Dekton is an ultra-compact surface that is durable and indestructible. The ‘Trilium’ color comes from their industrial collection, that looks like patina iron. We also used Dekton counters in the laundry room. Family Room Entertainment Center We updated the small built-in media cabinets in the family room. The new cabinetry provides better storage space and frames the large television. Laundry Room & Mudroom The kitchen connects the laundry room, closet area and garage. We widened this entry to keep the kitchen feeling connected with a new pantry area. In this area, we created a landing zone for phones and groceries. We created a folding area at the washer and dryer. We raised the height of the cabinets and floated the countertop over the appliances. We removed the sink and instead installed a utility sink in the garage for clean up. At the garage entrance, we added more organization for coats, shoes and boots. The cabinets have his and hers drawers, hanging racks and lined shelves. New hardwood floors were added in this Brookfield, WI kitchen and laundry area to match the rest of the house. We refinished the floors on the entire main level.

For this couple, planning to move back to their rambler home in Arlington after living overseas for few years, they were ready to get rid of clutter, clean up their grown-up kids’ boxes, and transform their home into their dream home for their golden years. The old home included a box-like 8 feet x 10 feet kitchen, no family room, three small bedrooms and two back to back small bathrooms. The laundry room was located in a small dark space of the unfinished basement. This home is located in a cul-de-sac, on an uphill lot, of a very secluded neighborhood with lots of new homes just being built around them. The couple consulted an architectural firm in past but never were satisfied with the final plans. They approached Michael Nash Custom Kitchens hoping for fresh ideas. The backyard and side yard are wooded and the existing structure was too close to building restriction lines. We developed design plans and applied for special permits to achieve our client’s goals. The remodel includes a family room, sunroom, breakfast area, home office, large master bedroom suite, large walk-in closet, main level laundry room, lots of windows, front porch, back deck, and most important than all an elevator from lower to upper level given them and their close relative a necessary easier access. The new plan added extra dimensions to this rambler on all four sides. Starting from the front, we excavated to allow a first level entrance, storage, and elevator room. Building just above it, is a 12 feet x 30 feet covered porch with a leading brick staircase. A contemporary cedar rail with horizontal stainless steel cable rail system on both the front porch and the back deck sets off this project from any others in area. A new foyer with double frosted stainless-steel door was added which contains the elevator. The garage door was widened and a solid cedar door was installed to compliment the cedar siding. The left side of this rambler was excavated to allow a storage off the garage and extension of one of the old bedrooms to be converted to a large master bedroom suite, master bathroom suite and walk-in closet. We installed matching brick for a seam-less exterior look. The entire house was furnished with new Italian imported highly custom stainless-steel windows and doors. We removed several brick and block structure walls to put doors and floor to ceiling windows. A full walk in shower with barn style frameless glass doors, double vanities covered with selective stone, floor to ceiling porcelain tile make the master bathroom highly accessible. The other two bedrooms were reconfigured with new closets, wider doorways, new wood floors and wider windows. Just outside of the bedroom, a new laundry room closet was a major upgrade. A second HVAC system was added in the attic for all new areas. The back side of the master bedroom was covered with floor to ceiling windows and a door to step into a new deck covered in trex and cable railing. This addition provides a view to wooded area of the home. By excavating and leveling the backyard, we constructed a two story 15’x 40’ addition that provided the tall ceiling for the family room just adjacent to new deck, a breakfast area a few steps away from the remodeled kitchen. Upscale stainless-steel appliances, floor to ceiling white custom cabinetry and quartz counter top, and fun lighting improved this back section of the house with its increased lighting and available work space. Just below this addition, there is extra space for exercise and storage room. This room has a pair of sliding doors allowing more light inside. The right elevation has a trapezoid shape addition with floor to ceiling windows and space used as a sunroom/in-home office. Wide plank wood floors were installed throughout the main level for continuity. The hall bathroom was gutted and expanded to allow a new soaking tub and large vanity. The basement half bathroom was converted to a full bathroom, new flooring and lighting in the entire basement changed the purpose of the basement for entertainment and spending time with grandkids. Off white and soft tone were used inside and out as the color schemes to make this rambler spacious and illuminated. Final grade and landscaping, by adding a few trees, trimming the old cherry and walnut trees in backyard, saddling the yard, and a new concrete driveway and walkway made this home a unique and charming gem in the neighborhood.

A couple hired us as the professional remodeling contractor to update the first floor of their Brookfield, WI home. The project included the kitchen, family room entertainment center, laundry room and mudroom. The goal was to improve the functionality of the space, improving prep space and storage. Their house had a traditional style, so the homeowners chose a transitional style with wood and natural elements. Kitchen Remodel We wanted to give the kitchen a more streamlined, contemporary feel. We removed the soffits, took the cabinetry to the ceiling, and opened the space. Cherry cabinets line the perimeter of the kitchen with a soft gray island. We kept a desk area in the kitchen, which can be used as a sideboard when hosting parties. This kitchen has many storage and organizational features. The interior cabinet organizers include: a tray/cutting board cabinet, a pull-out pantry, a pull-out drawer for trash/compost/dog food, dish peg drawers, a corner carousel and pot/pan drawers. The couple wanted more countertop space in their kitchen. We added an island with a black walnut butcher block table height seating area. The low height makes the space feel open and accessible to their grandchildren who visit. The island countertop is one of the highlights of the space. Dekton is an ultra-compact surface that is durable and indestructible. The ‘Trilium’ color comes from their industrial collection, that looks like patina iron. We also used Dekton counters in the laundry room. Family Room Entertainment Center We updated the small built-in media cabinets in the family room. The new cabinetry provides better storage space and frames the large television. Laundry Room & Mudroom The kitchen connects the laundry room, closet area and garage. We widened this entry to keep the kitchen feeling connected with a new pantry area. In this area, we created a landing zone for phones and groceries. We created a folding area at the washer and dryer. We raised the height of the cabinets and floated the countertop over the appliances. We removed the sink and instead installed a utility sink in the garage for clean up. At the garage entrance, we added more organization for coats, shoes and boots. The cabinets have his and hers drawers, hanging racks and lined shelves. New hardwood floors were added in this Brookfield, WI kitchen and laundry area to match the rest of the house. We refinished the floors on the entire main level.

Plain & Fancy custom cabinetry in dark cherry with accent corbels, cove crown moulding, an island counter and butcher block table. The unique request to add a full-size wine fridge with access to the adjoining entertaining space checked all the boxes for this family. Photo by JMB Photoworks

Rockaway Park - Legal Two Family Exclusive: PS 114 school district. One block from the beach. Two story brick home that was fully pointed 8 years ago. 3 bedrooms / one bath over 2 bedrooms / one renovated bath and kitchen. Original hardwood floors throughout are in pristine condition. Rear enclosed staircase leads to a full basement, giving both floors private access. This is ideal for setting up either unit as a duplex apartment. Three porches offer ample exterior access. Second floor offers a front and rear terrace. First floor offers a front porch. Full private driveway fits 5 cars. Two car garage. Walking distance to transportation, restaurants, shopping, houses of worship and the best beach in the Northeast. Offered at $789,000

Full top floor of beautiful brownstone on coveted Hudson Street block directly across from Steven’s Park with seasonal NYC views. This elegant 2 bedroom, 1 bath home features open living space with exposed brick, hardwood floors, gas fireplace, central air conditioning & laundry in home. Master bedroom with double closets and great light, updated bath with pedestal sink and additional basement storage. Easy access to Hoboken’s world-class waterfront, shopping, dining, parks and transportation. Rental parking only 1 block away.

This adorable kitchen in Point Loma, CA is now open to the family room, small in spaces but united with a nature-inspired color palette. The kitchen went through an extensive remodel removing walls, raised ceiling, exposing the beam and a new glass door for the back entry and now this small kitchen feel open and spacious. The cabinetry features shaker elements―clean lines, plain trim, and little ornamentation― great for transitional decor. Functional fixtures and modern appliances peacefully coexist with the mosaic marble backsplash. Hidden behind the door panels is a 30” Subzero refrigerator/freezer integrated nicely to keep the kitchen plan, clean and understated. The corner sink is recessed back adding a nice detail but even more importantly a more accessible corner access to the kitchen windows. Accessories and details added to the kitchen cabinets give this chef everything she was looking for with a spice pullout, knife block pullout and rollouts to top off the new cabinets. When space is tight it is a great option for a small family to open up the walls and add a counter where the family can dine. On the walls, neutral gray painted create a soothing atmosphere. Adjacent to the kitchen was a cramped room that functioned as a workout room and laundry room. By changing some wall space, closing in a door and removing a closet the new space has great storage and is more open and functional for a quick workout. In the family room the fireplace was re-tiled with a concrete looking porcelain tile topped off with a rustic beam mantle. Combined with new home furnishings to make the most of a small space this new family room is both functional and a great place for the couple to spend time with each other on a daily basis and to entertain guest and a new space has been created with the feel of a comfortable cozy space for all to enjoy. Contractor: CairnsCraft Remodeling Designer: Bonnie Bogley Catlin Photogtapher: Jon Upson

As a first step in this project, we completely demolished the existing, very overgrown, and outdated landscape. The owner desired a custom-designed fire pit and patio, oriented toward their primary view corridor. The need to connect a secondary access off the back of their home to the primary access off their family room led us to create a sand-finish concrete walkway that connected the former to their new sand-finish concrete dining patio. In the process, we created a very nice planting area to soften up and beautify the back of the house. We utilized a segmental wall block system to create a seat wall around the patio, helping to create a sense of containment in the space and providing extra seating for larger gatherings. Concealed wall lights helped lend a feeling of welcome to the space’s after-dark use. A set of offset cedar screens offers a creative way to hide a utility area without a gate. We used a complementary-colored concrete mow curb as a bed divider and planted a Japanese Golden Rain Tree to provide future shade for our client. We filled out the rest of the landscaping with Arctic Fire Dogwood, Winter Gem Boxwood, Blue Avena Grass, Stella d’Oro Day Lily, and a specimen Burning Bush.