The Setup When our clients decided to remodel their primary bathroom, the goal was to transform the space into a brighter, more open retreat tailored to their needs. The previous layout, with its enclosed zones and limited functionality, no longer met their needs. By reimagining the layout and introducing thoughtful design choices, we created a modern, elegant bathroom that serves their current and future lifestyle. Design objectives: - Create a brighter, more open bathroom while maintaining privacy. - Provide functional storage solutions without relying on the old linen closet. - Incorporate a freestanding tub, large shower, and a makeup area for added versatility. - Retain natural light from existing windows. - Introduce elegant finishes and accents for a timeless aesthetic. The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: - Reconfiguring the layout while keeping the existing plumbing for the toilet. - Creating storage that houses everything that resided within the linen closet. - Designing clearance and functionality for a freestanding tub, shower, and makeup area within the limited space. - Accommodating the client’s desire for a pocket door in the commode room despite spatial constraints. Introducing accent tile and cabinetry colors that align with the client’s vision yet maintain a cohesive look with the rest of the home. The Renewed Space Design solutions: - Reimagined Layout: Moved the shower from the back of the room, creating a more open feel with additional glass while preserving privacy with a wing wall and bench. The freestanding tub was angled to optimize space and enhance circulation, with textured tile behind it adding visual interest. - Efficient Storage: Eliminated the original linen closet and incorporated functional base cabinet storage and a designated makeup area for added utility. - Optimized Access: Adjusted the depth of the makeup vanity to provide sufficient walkway clearance, ensuring a comfortable flow around the tub. - Tailored Features: Installed a smaller pocket door in the commode room to resolve framing and plumbing limitations. - Elegant Accents: Introduced a subtle marble herringbone mosaic tile in the shower and textured tile behind the tub to enhance the monochromatic palette. Painted cabinetry in a dark gray finish provided a bold yet refined contrast to the light countertops. Final Thoughts: The reimagined primary bathroom is a true reflection of the client’s needs and style preferences. By thoughtfully reworking the layout and incorporating functional yet elegant design elements, we created a serene and practical space that serves as a personal retreat. The result is a timeless bathroom that supports their busy lifestyle while providing moments of tranquility.

There's something special about revisiting a project years later and making it even better! This patio cover, originally built in 2015, got a stunning upgrade after a tree fall led to the home's reconstruction. While opening up the patio ceiling to access the home's MEP lines, we seized the opportunity to enhance every detail. ✨ Fresh Features & Upgrades: ✔ Stained ceiling upgrade – Replacing the original white beadboard for a richer, elevated look ✔ Smoker-friendly screened wing – Complete with a 30" directional fan to keep the smoke out ✔ Enhanced lighting & new fixtures – A brighter, more refined space and additional electrical for future use ✔ Outdoor kitchen transformation – Swapping out the old gas grill for a Blackstone & salamander oven ✔ New walls, doors & screens – Bringing comfort and style together ✔Smokeless Fireplace Addition For the ultimate outdoor retreat, we incorporated a smokeless fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings without the hassle of lingering smoke. What started as a repair turned into a complete reimagining of the space—and the result is something truly exceptional! What do you think of the transformation? ?

THE SETUP This client lives in a great high-rise condo in downtown Chicago. Alicia has already remodeled a few areas of her home, including her kitchen and home office. The bathroom is one of the last big places the client wanted to update. The existing bathroom had a large, outdated whirlpool tub in the corner. It was a darker space that had a lack of natural light. There are no windows (due to the bathroom’s location within the high-rise building). So, the idea was to brighten up the space and give the client an updated, elegant primary bathroom that is more her style and tailor-made for her routines. Design Objectives: - Make the space brighter. - Create different daily routine stations to maximize functionality while keeping things clutter-free – a makeup station, a blow-dry station, and a sink-needs station. - Achieve the client’s specific style and function needs while also keeping the look and design open to future possibilities: different users of the space/resale clients. Design Challenges: - Toilet cannot be moved. (In a high-rise, you can’t really move plumbing around too much when reimagining a space) - Existing bathroom had a soffit that hid a lot of electrical wiring, so completely removing the soffit wasn’t an option. - The blow-dry station needs to accommodate the client’s preference for standing up. - Finding a place for the make-up station, which the client wants oriented for sitting. - Create storage within the shower that can eliminate the clutter of personal care products that are actually needed every day. Do this, while keeping the client’s favorite things about the existing shower: the shower bench, a tub filler faucet (for rinsing shaving cream when shaving legs) and a low niche for placing her foot when shaving her legs. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: - Extended a bit of wall near the toilet to give the commode its own area within the space, but without closing it off into a claustrophobic WC. - Worked within the reality of the existing soffit situation, reshaping it to align with the new shower. Can lights were also added. Installed a beautiful ceiling light fixture that works within the new soffit shape, commanding attention and adding light, as if the sofit shape was chosen for it. - Created a nice, furniture-looking 42”-high cabinet with pullout drawers to be the blow-dry station, complete with a mirror and a nice top. The pullout drawers are all powered, concealing a Dyson dryer and curling iron (and all the accoutrements) while keeping them plugged in, which is ideal for easy usage and put away. A stylish mirror on the wall above the cabinet, and proper lighting, make this the perfect blow-dry station. The top has a grommet that can accommodate a power cord should the client ever want to have a powered device on top of the cabinet. - Put the sit-down makeup station where the tub used to be, putting the mirror back into a new recessed wall just a bit, allowing the area to have more room. - Created a niche in the shower’s inner wall so that you can’t see it unless you are literally inside the shower. At the client’s request, it also has a hook so she can hang her loofa. Hiding the utility niche in this way allowed us to use the full main wall of the shower as a canvas for a beautiful accent stripe of raised decorative tile. The new shower has her old favorites, too: the tub filler, foot niche and bench. Alicia’s client loves her new primary bathroom, especially the blow dry area. It is very accommodating for her, as a tall lady, while being very easy to use. The drawers store everything. Being powered, they make using already-plugged in appliances very easy to use and put away. Her previous makeup station was a freestanding vanity with a single drawer, so beauty products were all over the surface top. With her new makeup station, everything is nicely tucked away and organized in drawers. The new lighting is fantastic and the colors are light and soft. The clients loves the overall look and feel of her new bathroom and raves about how well the functionality-minded design makes her morning routine – and her life – easier and enjoyable!

A renovation to bring the most important area of the house up to date with their family’s present and future needs was sorely needed. New brighter, more colorful finishes are added throughout! It starts with a face lift of the Den with new French doors and a large window opening to the back porch. Also, a second back stairway is removed to allow room for a new arched circulation hallway to the kitchen. Along this path one can get to a new pantry and wet bar. The new kitchen now features updated appliances with an enhanced plastered hood design over the stove and a large island with additional seating and serving space. The laundry room is expanded providing a drop-off area and a new French door allowing easy access from the driveway. An adjacent game room and bathroom are updated as well.

Nestled within the vibrant urban core of the City of Lancaster, California, this illustrious project stands as a testament to modern community living. Comprising three stories and boasting 80 meticulously crafted units, this newly constructed apartment enclave offers diverse living spaces, from cozy studios to spacious 3-bedroom abodes. An integral part of a visionary four-building master plan, this community seamlessly blends functionality with luxury. It caters to households with incomes spanning from 30 to 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). Residents are treated to an array of on-site and off-site amenities, ensuring a truly enriched living experience. On-site residents benefit from a suite of services thoughtfully provided by the developer, encompassing comprehensive case management, primary health and mental health care, and holistic housing, education, and employment support. Beyond the confines of the community, a world of convenience awaits, with off-site amenities, including easy access to transportation hubs, esteemed educational institutions, and bustling shopping destinations replete with grocery stores, health clinics, and pharmacies. Moreover, this project's strategic location offers unparalleled accessibility, with seamless connections to public transportation and a plethora of social services and businesses within walking distance. It's not just an apartment complex; it's a vibrant, cohesive community designed to uplift and empower residents as they embark on their journey toward a brighter future.

This thoughtfully renovated flip was designed with both beauty and longevity in mind, featuring an ADA-accessible private suite tailored for aging in place. The layout was fully re-imagined to improve flow and daily functionality—most notably by opening up the main living areas and removing an outdated corner brick fireplace, allowing for smoother circulation and a brighter, more connected home. The primary suite was significantly expanded to create a spacious bedroom, an oversized walk-in closet, and a serene master bathroom, transforming it into a true retreat. A new patio door was added to enhance indoor-outdoor connection and bring in natural light. The kitchen was refreshed with a timeless black-and-white palette, elevated by champagne bronze hardware, updated lighting, and charming shiplap accents. A dedicated coffee bar adds both function and personality, making the space perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Bathrooms were finished with extra-large format porcelain tile on both floors and walls, creating a clean, seamless, and spa-like feel while ensuring durability and easy maintenance. Throughout the main living areas, we installed rustic waterproof wood-look flooring in a mid-tone oak, offering warmth, texture, and long-term performance—ideal for multi-generational living. This renovation balances accessibility, comfort, and modern elegance, proving that a well-designed home can be both future-ready and beautifully timeless.

A renovation to bring the most important area of the house up to date with their family’s present and future needs was sorely needed. New brighter, more colorful finishes are added throughout! It starts with a face lift of the Den with new French doors and a large window opening to the back porch. Also, a second back stairway is removed to allow room for a new arched circulation hallway to the kitchen. Along this path one can get to a new pantry and wet bar. The new kitchen now features updated appliances with an enhanced plastered hood design over the stove and a large island with additional seating and serving space. The laundry room is expanded providing a drop-off area and a new French door allowing easy access from the driveway. An adjacent game room and bathroom are updated as well.

Planning a Modern Kitchen Remodel Every successful kitchen remodeling project begins with careful planning. Before construction starts, it is important to evaluate the existing layout, cabinet storage, lighting conditions, appliance placement, and how the kitchen connects to surrounding living spaces. For this project, the primary design goals included: Creating a brighter open concept kitchen Improving functionality and circulation Increasing pantry and cabinet storage Maximizing natural light with skylight integration Creating a clean and timeless design aesthetic The final layout centered around a large kitchen island that functions as both a workspace and gathering area. Open concept kitchens remain highly desirable because they improve communication between living areas while helping the home feel larger and more connected. Importance of Natural Light Natural lighting plays a major role in modern kitchen remodeling. In this renovation, the skylight significantly improved brightness throughout the space and helped create a softer, more inviting atmosphere during the day. Combined with recessed lighting and pendant fixtures above the island, the layered lighting design provides both functional task lighting and balanced ambient illumination. Construction and Material Selection Kitchen remodeling projects require coordination between multiple construction trades including demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and finish carpentry. Bi-Color Kitchen Remodel Design One of the standout features of this project is the bi-color kitchen remodel design. The warm natural wood island creates contrast against the surrounding white cabinetry while maintaining a clean and balanced appearance. This approach helps: Add visual depth to the kitchen Create separation between functional zones Prevent the space from feeling overly monochromatic Introduce warmth into modern kitchen designs The oversized island also provides additional storage, countertop workspace, and seating opportunities for everyday use and entertaining. Countertops, Cabinetry, and Finishes The kitchen includes: Quartz countertops with waterfall-style edges Custom shaker-style cabinetry Stainless steel appliances Modern pendant lighting Wide plank engineered hardwood flooring Full-height backsplash surfaces The neutral color palette was selected to create a timeless appearance while allowing flexibility for future décor and furniture changes. Pantry Kitchen Renovation Storage planning is one of the most important aspects of kitchen remodeling. The pantry kitchen renovation focused on improving organization and accessibility while maximizing usable storage space. Modern pantry systems help homeowners: Reduce countertop clutter Improve kitchen organization Store small appliances more efficiently Increase long-term functionality Thoughtful storage design can significantly improve the daily usability of a kitchen without increasing square footage. Real Estate Value and Long-Term Benefits Kitchen remodeling remains one of the highest-value residential renovation projects in the Bay Area real estate market. A professionally designed open concept kitchen can improve buyer perception, increase property appeal, and modernize outdated layouts. Features such as large islands, skylights, pantry storage, and bi-color cabinetry continue to remain highly desirable among homeowners and future buyers alike. Common Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes Some common mistakes homeowners should avoid include: Insufficient lighting design Poor circulation planning Limited storage solutions Choosing low-durability materials Overcrowded layouts Inadequate electrical preparation Working with experienced remodeling professionals can help avoid costly design and construction issues later in the process. Common Questions How long does a kitchen remodel usually take? Most kitchen remodeling projects take approximately 6–12 weeks depending on the project scope, inspections, material lead times, and structural modifications. Do kitchen remodels require permits? Permits are often required when plumbing, electrical, structural, or layout changes are involved. Requirements vary depending on the city and scope of work. What is a bi-color kitchen remodel? A bi-color kitchen remodel uses two cabinet finishes or tones to create visual contrast and a more customized design appearance. Does an open concept kitchen increase home value? Open concept kitchens are highly desirable because they improve functionality, natural lighting, and overall flow throughout the home. Conclusion A well-planned kitchen remodeling project combines thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and durable materials to create a space that is both functional and visually appealing. Features such as skylight integration, open concept layouts, pantry kitchen renovations, and bi-color cabinetry continue to remain popular among Bay Area homeowners seeking timeless and practical kitchen designs. Careful planning, professional coordination, and attention to detail are essential for creating a kitchen that performs well aesthetically and functionally for many years. -------> If you’re planning a kitchen remodeling project, consulting with an experienced contractor can help simplify the design and construction process while avoiding costly mistakes. Book a consultation: calendly.com/lemonremodeling

This is an example of a landscaping in San Francisco.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.