Luisa Bellini
Great room - mid-sized contemporary medium tone wood floor great room idea in Brisbane with gray walls

It's amazing what the removal of bulkheads and a wall can do for a kitchen! In this kitchen remodel, we removed a wall to make the kitchen larger and integrated an eat-in space. We also took out bulkheads and extended cabinets to the ceiling, which makes the space feel larger and provides more storage space. For a modern take on the traditional design aesthetic, we paired white upper cabinets with dark toned wood bottoms and island. A dry bar with glass front cabinets was added to the eat-in area.

Basements in houses built in the 50's face a lot of challenges when it comes to development - bulkheads, uneven floors, small windows, disintegrating plumbing, and cracked walls all need to be dealt with to provide a perfect modern finish. This basement required everything from completely new plumbing from the stack to the street, levelled breathable subfloor, spray foamed walls and rim joists, bulkheads, and a load bearing support wall.

Basements in houses built in the 50's face a lot of challenges when it comes to development - bulkheads, uneven floors, small windows, disintegrating plumbing, and cracked walls all need to be dealt with to provide a perfect modern finish. This basement required everything from completely new plumbing from the stack to the street, levelled breathable subfloor, spray foamed walls and rim joists, bulkheads, and a load bearing support wall.

Example of a minimalist l-shaped ceramic tile and beige floor dedicated laundry room design in Other with a drop-in sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, blue walls and a side-by-side washer/dryer

The renovation of the project included a main floor renovation which included a brand-new kitchen and a sunroom addition. This renovation revised the space in the kitchen area by removing a load-bearing wall and relocating the mechanical and electrical systems inside. This freed up space and allowed for a more open design in the kitchen area. The client had several requests for this project, including large windows to allow maximum natural light. This idea was further added upon by adding sun tunnels in the roof for even more light. The sunroom also features a custom deck on the back of the house with aluminum handrails. The addition to the house was to have its own air conditioning system with custom ceiling tray detailing with crown moulding. This also served to hide the attic hatch with millwork finish. Besides, the sunroom space was designed as both a living room and extra dining space. During the pandemic, it also served as an office and home work hub for their children. What makes this project appealing is the enhanced natural light being brought into the spaces through large windows and sun tunnels. Other enhancements include a large-scale hexagonal mosaic in marble-looking material to add texture to the wall, as well as the use of accent panels to extend custom hood cabinets to the ceiling. Next, the island in the kitchen can seat 4 comfortably enhancing the usefulness of the space. The colours chosen for the kitchen include off white slab doors and deep rich wood accents and island. The hardware is brushed nickel as well as the light fixture, all to match the plumbing fixtures. Around the walls in the sunroom is custom wainscotting using millwork and casing. Special work was done on the ceiling, by concealing the beams with bulkheads and then angling them to match the existing bulkheads in the kitchen and original dining room. Besides, a custom appliance garage corner cabinet sits on the countertop which offers convenience and efficiency. The size of the island was maximized to get the most storage space out of it, including a pull-out spice rack and a space for a wine fridge. The unique transition between tile and hardwood was done out of necessity, as the sitting stools had to sit on only one medium. Plus, it is a unique way to transition from two different flooring materials! The unique challenges of this project include the wood to tile interface. This was required for the sitting stools to rest on only one medium. This design feature turned out to be an attractive solution to the design problem. This solution was also used at the patio door entrance. The plumbing in this project was challenging since it connected to an existing reverse osmosis system. There was a large beam in the kitchen ceiling which interfered with lighting placement. Additionally, picking a complimentary wood colour which would go with the existing flooring was challenging. The overall design of the addition took extra time to make the space well-used as the lot itself was an irregular shape.

Project: Full Ensuite Bathroom Renovation Location: Mississauga – Square One Area This full ensuite renovation focused on improving layout, comfort, and functionality. The original bathroom felt enclosed and outdated. The shower was dark, closed off, and had a low ceiling due to a bulkhead. A large deck-mounted bathtub occupied significant space and was never used by the homeowner. The existing cabinetry lacked proper storage and did not meet the client’s needs. To transform the space, we fully opened the shower area by removing the bulkhead and side wall, allowing for better light flow and ceiling height. The deck-mounted bathtub, old tile, and existing furniture were completely removed. The new walk-in shower features a linear drain with a non-threshold Schluter system, creating a seamless, clean look and improving accessibility. The custom glass enclosure was designed to maintain openness while defining the space. We installed a custom vanity to maximize storage and discreetly conceal electrical outlets, keeping the design streamlined and practical. Key features include: Zitta freestanding bathtub Tenzo freestanding tub filler Tenzo shower valve with thermostatic and volume control The result is a bright, functional, and thoughtfully planned ensuite that feels open, modern, and tailored to the homeowner’s lifestyle.

The renovation of the project included a main floor renovation which included a brand-new kitchen and a sunroom addition. This renovation revised the space in the kitchen area by removing a load-bearing wall and relocating the mechanical and electrical systems inside. This freed up space and allowed for a more open design in the kitchen area. The client had several requests for this project, including large windows to allow maximum natural light. This idea was further added upon by adding sun tunnels in the roof for even more light. The sunroom also features a custom deck on the back of the house with aluminum handrails. The addition to the house was to have its own air conditioning system with custom ceiling tray detailing with crown moulding. This also served to hide the attic hatch with millwork finish. Besides, the sunroom space was designed as both a living room and extra dining space. During the pandemic, it also served as an office and home work hub for their children. What makes this project appealing is the enhanced natural light being brought into the spaces through large windows and sun tunnels. Other enhancements include a large-scale hexagonal mosaic in marble-looking material to add texture to the wall, as well as the use of accent panels to extend custom hood cabinets to the ceiling. Next, the island in the kitchen can seat 4 comfortably enhancing the usefulness of the space. The colours chosen for the kitchen include off white slab doors and deep rich wood accents and island. The hardware is brushed nickel as well as the light fixture, all to match the plumbing fixtures. Around the walls in the sunroom is custom wainscotting using millwork and casing. Special work was done on the ceiling, by concealing the beams with bulkheads and then angling them to match the existing bulkheads in the kitchen and original dining room. Besides, a custom appliance garage corner cabinet sits on the countertop which offers convenience and efficiency. The size of the island was maximized to get the most storage space out of it, including a pull-out spice rack and a space for a wine fridge. The unique transition between tile and hardwood was done out of necessity, as the sitting stools had to sit on only one medium. Plus, it is a unique way to transition from two different flooring materials! The unique challenges of this project include the wood to tile interface. This was required for the sitting stools to rest on only one medium. This design feature turned out to be an attractive solution to the design problem. This solution was also used at the patio door entrance. The plumbing in this project was challenging since it connected to an existing reverse osmosis system. There was a large beam in the kitchen ceiling which interfered with lighting placement. Additionally, picking a complimentary wood colour which would go with the existing flooring was challenging. The overall design of the addition took extra time to make the space well-used as the lot itself was an irregular shape.

The renovation of the project included a main floor renovation which included a brand-new kitchen and a sunroom addition. This renovation revised the space in the kitchen area by removing a load-bearing wall and relocating the mechanical and electrical systems inside. This freed up space and allowed for a more open design in the kitchen area. The client had several requests for this project, including large windows to allow maximum natural light. This idea was further added upon by adding sun tunnels in the roof for even more light. The sunroom also features a custom deck on the back of the house with aluminum handrails. The addition to the house was to have its own air conditioning system with custom ceiling tray detailing with crown moulding. This also served to hide the attic hatch with millwork finish. Besides, the sunroom space was designed as both a living room and extra dining space. During the pandemic, it also served as an office and home work hub for their children. What makes this project appealing is the enhanced natural light being brought into the spaces through large windows and sun tunnels. Other enhancements include a large-scale hexagonal mosaic in marble-looking material to add texture to the wall, as well as the use of accent panels to extend custom hood cabinets to the ceiling. Next, the island in the kitchen can seat 4 comfortably enhancing the usefulness of the space. The colours chosen for the kitchen include off white slab doors and deep rich wood accents and island. The hardware is brushed nickel as well as the light fixture, all to match the plumbing fixtures. Around the walls in the sunroom is custom wainscotting using millwork and casing. Special work was done on the ceiling, by concealing the beams with bulkheads and then angling them to match the existing bulkheads in the kitchen and original dining room. Besides, a custom appliance garage corner cabinet sits on the countertop which offers convenience and efficiency. The size of the island was maximized to get the most storage space out of it, including a pull-out spice rack and a space for a wine fridge. The unique transition between tile and hardwood was done out of necessity, as the sitting stools had to sit on only one medium. Plus, it is a unique way to transition from two different flooring materials! The unique challenges of this project include the wood to tile interface. This was required for the sitting stools to rest on only one medium. This design feature turned out to be an attractive solution to the design problem. This solution was also used at the patio door entrance. The plumbing in this project was challenging since it connected to an existing reverse osmosis system. There was a large beam in the kitchen ceiling which interfered with lighting placement. Additionally, picking a complimentary wood colour which would go with the existing flooring was challenging. The overall design of the addition took extra time to make the space well-used as the lot itself was an irregular shape.

Photos by: Design Shop www.design--shop.com Built by J + G Homes
Trendy dining room photo in Other

Adding a bulkhead creates the opportunity for a feature wall and helps frame the bed area. By painting it a darker contrasting colour creates depth and visual interest. Pairing nicely with a white and grey toned linear pattern wallpaper. The wallpaper is beautifully accented by the bulkhead lighting.

Disguised bulkhead and radiator as bench seating for eat-in kitchen
Example of a small transitional u-shaped vinyl floor enclosed kitchen design in Milwaukee with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

WHITE SHAKER PAINTED DOORS WITH MARBLE LOOKING QUARTZ COUNTERS AND BACKSPLASH. KITCHEN IS WITH VAULTED CEILING AND CROWN MOLDING.THERE IS A TYPICAL STAIRS BULKHEAD COVERED IN PANELS. EXTRA LONG CHROME HANDLES

Transitional remodeling project where we not only updated the kitchen, but also the bar area and dining room. The homeowners decided to go with new cabinets in the kitchen because of the removal of false beams and bulkheads as well as re-arranging the appliance locations. We opted to reface the bar area, book shelf, dining room built-in and fireplace built-in because of the unique architectural elements of each. The bar area has a curved wall and cabinets on it that was much easier to reface with WalzCraft wood-backed-veneer than to replace with new cabinets. We removed a bulkhead above the bookshelf and built two new custom wall cabinets to help better utilize the bar area. We were able to match a door and drawer style from WalzCraft to the new Portland door from Bridgewood that was used in the kitchen so that when walking from room to room, no one can tell the difference. The kitchen cabinets were done in the color snow while the bar area and dining room were done in Pearl. To complete the new look we installed a MSI Quartz countertop in Zeal Soul Shine, a Carrera glass arabesque mosaic backsplash and a pre-finished dark stained oak floor.

Our Chrome Nautical Wall Sconce is perfect to add a nautical / marine flair to any kitchen. The solid brass large hooded wall light (H-2) is available in polished chrome and unlacquered brass, along with 10+ different custom finishes.

The renovation of the project included a main floor renovation which included a brand-new kitchen and a sunroom addition. This renovation revised the space in the kitchen area by removing a load-bearing wall and relocating the mechanical and electrical systems inside. This freed up space and allowed for a more open design in the kitchen area. The client had several requests for this project, including large windows to allow maximum natural light. This idea was further added upon by adding sun tunnels in the roof for even more light. The sunroom also features a custom deck on the back of the house with aluminum handrails. The addition to the house was to have its own air conditioning system with custom ceiling tray detailing with crown moulding. This also served to hide the attic hatch with millwork finish. Besides, the sunroom space was designed as both a living room and extra dining space. During the pandemic, it also served as an office and home work hub for their children. What makes this project appealing is the enhanced natural light being brought into the spaces through large windows and sun tunnels. Other enhancements include a large-scale hexagonal mosaic in marble-looking material to add texture to the wall, as well as the use of accent panels to extend custom hood cabinets to the ceiling. Next, the island in the kitchen can seat 4 comfortably enhancing the usefulness of the space. The colours chosen for the kitchen include off white slab doors and deep rich wood accents and island. The hardware is brushed nickel as well as the light fixture, all to match the plumbing fixtures. Around the walls in the sunroom is custom wainscotting using millwork and casing. Special work was done on the ceiling, by concealing the beams with bulkheads and then angling them to match the existing bulkheads in the kitchen and original dining room. Besides, a custom appliance garage corner cabinet sits on the countertop which offers convenience and efficiency. The size of the island was maximized to get the most storage space out of it, including a pull-out spice rack and a space for a wine fridge. The unique transition between tile and hardwood was done out of necessity, as the sitting stools had to sit on only one medium. Plus, it is a unique way to transition from two different flooring materials! The unique challenges of this project include the wood to tile interface. This was required for the sitting stools to rest on only one medium. This design feature turned out to be an attractive solution to the design problem. This solution was also used at the patio door entrance. The plumbing in this project was challenging since it connected to an existing reverse osmosis system. There was a large beam in the kitchen ceiling which interfered with lighting placement. Additionally, picking a complimentary wood colour which would go with the existing flooring was challenging. The overall design of the addition took extra time to make the space well-used as the lot itself was an irregular shape.

Craig Thompson Photography The client was looking for a contemporary but comfortable space as a gathering place for themselves, their family and friends in the city. They wanted color, which was right up my alley. The specific color requests were orange, aqua and purple. We used the orange and aqua in the main living space adding a rich chocolate to the mix to provide a bold color palette. One theme that was consistent in the design was the use of circles, ellipses, and flowing curves. This was evidenced in the fabrics, furniture, wall sconces, bar design, artwork, TV area wall covering, and artwork. Often times contemporary design is very angular, straight lined and rigid. This was not the desired look for this client. They desired an open layout in the main living space to accentuate the breathtaking view. With these units there are always structural issues to be worked through. There is a structural column in an inopportune place in the main Living area. To make sense of this, it was incorporated into a bar that goes right up to the full height window. When sitting at the bar, it almost feels like you are floating in mid air, looking down on the hustle and bustle of the city. The bar is faced with dimensional glass tile with quartz countertops. An elliptical shaped floating bulkhead is intersected by the bold orange column. The bulkhead was finished in the dark chocolate with a silver deco molding around the face like a bracelet, architectural jewelry as I like to refer to it as. The bar creates an interesting architectural focal point, but also provides function for entertaining. We did a softer version of the aqua, combined with gray and cream for the color palette in the Master suite. I was able to give the client her request for purple which we did in the Guest Bedroom (not photographed) as the accent wall behind the bed and combined it with gold to complete the scheme.

Black and gold light fixture, built in coffee maker, built in tv, bulkheads, Cambria quartz counter top, ceiling detail, contemporary, double oven, full fridge and full freezer, gold, gray bar stools, hidden doors, open concept, walnut cabinetry, u-shaped island

Large minimalist brown two-story wood gable roof photo in Providence