Erin Lau
Design ideas for an eclectic landscaping in Seattle.

Situated within downtown Minneapolis's historic Mill District neighborhood, this loft renovation breathes new life into a former flour mill building dating back to 1879. Originally two separate one-level loft units brimming with historic charm, the space now boasts a sprawling 4,200 sq. ft. of meticulously crafted design. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by an expansive room crowned by a majestic 16.5-foot high wooden joist ceiling, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Mississippi River. Adding to the allure is an almost 16 ft x 20 ft steel and glass greenhouse, reminiscent of English conservatories, complete with a grand 12-foot-high castle-like door.

Nestled in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this blank slate terrace has undergone a captivating transformation, becoming an urban oasis that effortlessly blends functionality and style. A sleek clear cedar fence encloses the space, offering both child safety and a touch of natural allure. This isn't just your run-of-the-mill terrace; it's a lively haven that caters to both relaxation and entertainment. The installation boasts a thoughtfully designed kitchen area, ready to whip up culinary delights while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Williamsburg. Raised planters brim with greenery, their vibrant foliage breathing life into the space. With a smart irrigation system in place, maintaining this flourishing garden is a breeze. As the sun sets, the terrace gracefully transitions into a cozy haven, thanks to strategically placed lighting that casts a warm glow. And let's not forget the pièce de résistance – an outdoor shower, allowing you to wash off the city's hustle and bustle under the open sky. This terrace is more than just a landscaping project; it's an embodiment of the Williamsburg spirit, where gardening meets urban chic.

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Hospitality and familiarity are brought together in a sophisticated design, Scavolini’s Favilla kitchen. This new model stylishly manages to accommodate various domestic requirements: indeed, for their kitchen, customers can pick details brimming with industrial appeal, or recall the ambiance of country homes, preferring a more international style in the clean-cut silhouettes, or warming up the setting with traditional features. The Favilla kitchen thus offers an unprecedented linearity which will never go out of fashion, to create a place that is simply elegant and functional. #design #favilla #scavolinikitchens #scavolini #scavoliniclassicalkitchens #classicalkitchens #thedesigngalleryea #thedesigngallery #italianluxuryliving #madeinitaly #availableinkenya

Exquisitely renovated with sophisticated finishes, this six bedroom distinctive Colonial will impress you. The newly installed chef's kitchen is brimming with style and functionality. Those who love to cook will be inspired to entertain in the open floor plan. The palatial entry with custom millwork and the formal dining room with elegant herringbone wood floors will impress your guests. A sun-lit breakfast area flows into the re-styled family room which is highlighted by a stone fireplace. Upstairs, five spacious bedrooms and four updated bathrooms are thoughtfully designed. The extravagant master bedroom suite contains two walk-in closets, a private sitting room and a luxuriously appointed bathroom. The third floor includes an impressive loft-like sixth bedroom with en-suite bathroom. The finished lower level features a gym, full bathroom and entertainment room. A sport court and a three car garage complete this exceptional home.

The Home A charming reflection of its surroundings, the farmhouse-inspired Salida appeals to everyone from families with young children to growing families with teenagers. The home’s well-placed rear-entry garage and oversized front porch provide a warm and welcoming façade with contrasting board and batten details brimming with curb appeal. Inside, an entry hall flanked on either side by a private study and powder room expands to an inviting light and bright open-concept design uniting the kitchen, dining and family rooms that extend entertaining spaces with the adjoining patio. Alternatively, the upstairs provides family members with their own sense of space. The tranquil owner’s retreat with owner’s bath and spacious walk-in closet is set at the rear of the home and two secondary bedrooms flanking the full bathroom are ideally located at the front – providing the ultimate in privacy. A second-floor utility room makes laundry day a breeze. To provide for a growing family and expand the gathering spaces, an unfinished basement offers a wealth of flexibility with the options of a fourth bedroom, third full bath and game room. The Builder Founded in 1976, David Weekley Homes is the nation’s second largest privately-held homebuilder. Headquartered in Houston, TX, the company operates in 20 cities, including three communities in Colorado Springs. David Weekley Homes was the first builder in the United States to be awarded the “Triple Crown of American Homebuilding,” an honor which includes “America’s Best Builder,” “National Housing Quality Award” and “National Builder of the Year.” Nationwide, the company has received more than 1,300 product design and service awards, a reflection of the company’s commitment to Building Dreams, Enhancing Lives for more than 100,000 homebuyers. By utilizing buyer demographic information and incorporating the latest trends, Kathy Andrews Interiors (KAI) serves as the creative force behind the builder’s model homes where buyers can see and touch the quality craftsmanship. KAI also selects finishes like flooring and furnishings to create one-of-a-kind homes for buyers! The Interior Design The Salida’s interior design boasts an edgy sensibility with an ivory and gray color palette providing an ideal backdrop to modern decor elements. Soft gray laminate flooring is punctuated by accents of dark gray, white and navy contrasted by pops of lime green for a modern look. Glass elements throughout add to this contemporary impression. At center stage, the kitchen features two-tone cabinetry in slate gray and white complemented by white marbled quartz countertops and twilight blue glass brick-laid tile backsplash. Details like the pencil edge countertops add a modern look. The sophisticated, navy blue theme continues through several spaces, including in the owner’s retreat where pale gray brick-laid subway tile pops against the navy vertical stripe accent with glass mosaic tiles in a herringbone pattern, creating a floor-to-ceiling focal point. The secondary bathroom features a similar memory point with showstopping navy glass tile accents.

Careful attention was used in selecting the plants in this garden. Tall, narrow leaves of Iris contrast with wide brimmed chartreuse leaves of this hosta. The contrast continues with the short leaves of a daisy and the crinkled, red leaves of a coral bells. All in all, the contrast is stunning and really works well in this section of the garden. No matter the season, the foliage takes care of the color and the flowers are just a pretty accent.

Exquisitely renovated with sophisticated finishes, this six bedroom distinctive Colonial will impress you. The newly installed chef's kitchen is brimming with style and functionality. Those who love to cook will be inspired to entertain in the open floor plan. The palatial entry with custom millwork and the formal dining room with elegant herringbone wood floors will impress your guests. A sun-lit breakfast area flows into the re-styled family room which is highlighted by a stone fireplace. Upstairs, five spacious bedrooms and four updated bathrooms are thoughtfully designed. The extravagant master bedroom suite contains two walk-in closets, a private sitting room and a luxuriously appointed bathroom. The third floor includes an impressive loft-like sixth bedroom with en-suite bathroom. The finished lower level features a gym, full bathroom and entertainment room. A sport court and a three car garage complete this exceptional home.

A modern cottage lake home dining room brimming with natural textures.
Example of a beach style home design design in Orlando

Nestled into the hillside of the Mt. Baker neighborhood of Seattle, the private backyard blends corten steel and natural stone to create a hideaway for the homeowner's enjoyment. Bamboo decking with a complimenting pergola and gate surrounds a custom, rustic outdoor kitchen. A rusted, gas fire feature centers the patio space surrounded by a basalt and brick seat wall and uplight decorative steel screens. The brick feature wall was repurposed to compliment the architecture. A flagstone path steps through a lush shade garden and walkable groundcover "lawn". This compact space is brimming with intricate details that bring it to life.

The classic Spanish architecture of the house needed a memorable courtyard to welcome visitors and an extra dose of curb appeal. We designed an exquisite wrought iron front gate as the first point of entry with a Moorish star fountain just beyond that beckons you to enter. A creamy white sandstone creates an ethereal floor with a subtle but striking border detail around the fountain. Original Malibu-style tile was designed specifically for the fountain and custom colors complete this elegant and lovely water feature. The soft sound of brimming water is a soothing balm in a busy city day.

The Home A charming reflection of its surroundings, the farmhouse-inspired Salida appeals to everyone from families with young children to growing families with teenagers. The home’s well-placed rear-entry garage and oversized front porch provide a warm and welcoming façade with contrasting board and batten details brimming with curb appeal. Inside, an entry hall flanked on either side by a private study and powder room expands to an inviting light and bright open-concept design uniting the kitchen, dining and family rooms that extend entertaining spaces with the adjoining patio. Alternatively, the upstairs provides family members with their own sense of space. The tranquil owner’s retreat with owner’s bath and spacious walk-in closet is set at the rear of the home and two secondary bedrooms flanking the full bathroom are ideally located at the front – providing the ultimate in privacy. A second-floor utility room makes laundry day a breeze. To provide for a growing family and expand the gathering spaces, an unfinished basement offers a wealth of flexibility with the options of a fourth bedroom, third full bath and game room. The Builder Founded in 1976, David Weekley Homes is the nation’s second largest privately-held homebuilder. Headquartered in Houston, TX, the company operates in 20 cities, including three communities in Colorado Springs. David Weekley Homes was the first builder in the United States to be awarded the “Triple Crown of American Homebuilding,” an honor which includes “America’s Best Builder,” “National Housing Quality Award” and “National Builder of the Year.” Nationwide, the company has received more than 1,300 product design and service awards, a reflection of the company’s commitment to Building Dreams, Enhancing Lives for more than 100,000 homebuyers. By utilizing buyer demographic information and incorporating the latest trends, Kathy Andrews Interiors (KAI) serves as the creative force behind the builder’s model homes where buyers can see and touch the quality craftsmanship. KAI also selects finishes like flooring and furnishings to create one-of-a-kind homes for buyers! The Interior Design The Salida’s interior design boasts an edgy sensibility with an ivory and gray color palette providing an ideal backdrop to modern decor elements. Soft gray laminate flooring is punctuated by accents of dark gray, white and navy contrasted by pops of lime green for a modern look. Glass elements throughout add to this contemporary impression. At center stage, the kitchen features two-tone cabinetry in slate gray and white complemented by white marbled quartz countertops and twilight blue glass brick-laid tile backsplash. Details like the pencil edge countertops add a modern look. The sophisticated, navy blue theme continues through several spaces, including in the owner’s retreat where pale gray brick-laid subway tile pops against the navy vertical stripe accent with glass mosaic tiles in a herringbone pattern, creating a floor-to-ceiling focal point. The secondary bathroom features a similar memory point with showstopping navy glass tile accents.

A richly dimensional exterior brimming with special details enhances any streetscape, and distinguishes this family-friendly house plan. Incredibly open common areas are complemented by practical specialized spaces, like the library, e-space, pantry, and huge utility room. Each bedroom has an adjacent bathroom, and the master suite enjoys privacy and access to the covered porch. Columns, decorative ceilings, built-in shelves, and a screen porch with fireplace add custom elements to this remarkable Craftsman house plan.

The remodel of an office space located in Beverly Hills serves as a shining example of how thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship can transform a workspace into a haven of productivity and comfort. Our team undertook a comprehensive renovation that included various elements essential for creating an appealing office environment. From the electrical work to the intricate lime wash walls, the installation of a modern HVAC system, luxurious tile floors, and custom cabinetry, each detail was meticulously handled to meet the specific needs of our client, who is also the landlord of the building. As the project neared completion, the excitement in the air was palpable. The final reveal was met with enthusiasm from the client, who was thrilled with the transformation. The office space, now brimming with character and practicality, stands as a testament to our commitment to quality and attention to detail. It was gratifying to see the landlord’s reaction; his delight indicated that we achieved our goal of crafting a space that exceeded expectations. The Beverly Hills office remodel exemplifies how well-thought-out renovations can lead to extraordinary results, making it a space that even at the end of a long workday, one would be reluctant to leave.

Large Urn Hydrangea Planters with Lemon Lantana Cascading the brim of the urns. Peter Atkins and Associates. llc
Exterior home idea in New York

Nestled in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this blank slate terrace has undergone a captivating transformation, becoming an urban oasis that effortlessly blends functionality and style. A sleek clear cedar fence encloses the space, offering both child safety and a touch of natural allure. This isn't just your run-of-the-mill terrace; it's a lively haven that caters to both relaxation and entertainment. The installation boasts a thoughtfully designed kitchen area, ready to whip up culinary delights while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Williamsburg. Raised planters brim with greenery, their vibrant foliage breathing life into the space. With a smart irrigation system in place, maintaining this flourishing garden is a breeze. As the sun sets, the terrace gracefully transitions into a cozy haven, thanks to strategically placed lighting that casts a warm glow. And let's not forget the pièce de résistance – an outdoor shower, allowing you to wash off the city's hustle and bustle under the open sky. This terrace is more than just a landscaping project; it's an embodiment of the Williamsburg spirit, where gardening meets urban chic.

Nestled into the hillside of the Mt. Baker neighborhood of Seattle, the private backyard blends corten steel and natural stone to create a hideaway for the homeowner's enjoyment. Bamboo decking with a complimenting pergola and gate surrounds a custom, rustic outdoor kitchen. A rusted, gas fire feature centers the patio space surrounded by a basalt and brick seat wall and uplight decorative steel screens. The brick feature wall was repurposed to compliment the architecture. A flagstone path steps through a lush shade garden and walkable groundcover "lawn". This compact space is brimming with intricate details that bring it to life.

When two become one. A contemporary renovation intended to accommodate a couple's his and her collections and create a home brimming full of furniture and art that they both love. - Alex Williams for AJWDC