Blocks from the beach, this ADU feels like an oasis in Santa Monica. The design of the ADU was centered around the concept of flexibility. With a 2-bed, 2-bath layout, the the ADU could allow for roommates or caregivers living in the ADU permanently, or could be used as an extension of the main house for music studio space and pool parties. Tucked away in the layout is also an owner's storage space, as the ADU replaced the garage. Additionally, the layout considered accessibility as a concern, allowing for wheelchair access into the first floor public spaces and downstairs bedroom and bathroom. Ultimately, this ADU is a dream come true--offering flexibility for multiple uses in an efficient yet serene package that maximizes the usability (and resale value!) of the property.

This 1930's Barrington Hills farmhouse was in need of some TLC when it was purchased by this southern family of five who planned to make it their new home. The renovation taken on by Advance Design Studio's designer Scott Christensen and master carpenter Justin Davis included a custom porch, custom built in cabinetry in the living room and children's bedrooms, 2 children's on-suite baths, a guest powder room, a fabulous new master bath with custom closet and makeup area, a new upstairs laundry room, a workout basement, a mud room, new flooring and custom wainscot stairs with planked walls and ceilings throughout the home. The home's original mechanicals were in dire need of updating, so HVAC, plumbing and electrical were all replaced with newer materials and equipment. A dramatic change to the exterior took place with the addition of a quaint standing seam metal roofed farmhouse porch perfect for sipping lemonade on a lazy hot summer day. In addition to the changes to the home, a guest house on the property underwent a major transformation as well. Newly outfitted with updated gas and electric, a new stacking washer/dryer space was created along with an updated bath complete with a glass enclosed shower, something the bath did not previously have. A beautiful kitchenette with ample cabinetry space, refrigeration and a sink was transformed as well to provide all the comforts of home for guests visiting at the classic cottage retreat. The biggest design challenge was to keep in line with the charm the old home possessed, all the while giving the family all the convenience and efficiency of modern functioning amenities. One of the most interesting uses of material was the porcelain "wood-looking" tile used in all the baths and most of the home's common areas. All the efficiency of porcelain tile, with the nostalgic look and feel of worn and weathered hardwood floors. The home’s casual entry has an 8" rustic antique barn wood look porcelain tile in a rich brown to create a warm and welcoming first impression. Painted distressed cabinetry in muted shades of gray/green was used in the powder room to bring out the rustic feel of the space which was accentuated with wood planked walls and ceilings. Fresh white painted shaker cabinetry was used throughout the rest of the rooms, accentuated by bright chrome fixtures and muted pastel tones to create a calm and relaxing feeling throughout the home. Custom cabinetry was designed and built by Advance Design specifically for a large 70” TV in the living room, for each of the children’s bedroom’s built in storage, custom closets, and book shelves, and for a mudroom fit with custom niches for each family member by name. The ample master bath was fitted with double vanity areas in white. A generous shower with a bench features classic white subway tiles and light blue/green glass accents, as well as a large free standing soaking tub nestled under a window with double sconces to dim while relaxing in a luxurious bath. A custom classic white bookcase for plush towels greets you as you enter the sanctuary bath. Joe Nowak

The Fontana Bridge residence is a mountain modern lake home located in the mountains of Swain County. The LEED Gold home is mountain modern house designed to integrate harmoniously with the surrounding Appalachian mountain setting. The understated exterior and the thoughtfully chosen neutral palette blend into the topography of the wooded hillside.

This stained glass window was created as part of our signature Aspen Stained Glass line. These windows look beautiful in cottage style or contemporary homes and are a great way for outdoor enthusiasts to celebrate their love of nature. The textured appearance of the glass provides the homeowners with a high level of privacy and comfort.

Open concept to maximize functional use of space for residents and caregivers. Universal design elements to maximize independence and remove barriers in areas of high use by residents with mixed abilities, e.g. unique framing of bedroom doors on an angle combined with wide hallway with minimal obstructions enables quick egress of hospital beds and allows residents to age in place. Light, bright, happy and safe. Designed for independence, mobility and safety for residents with developmental disabilities living in a house with extra care provided.

Mike Sage Photography
Kitchen/dining room combo - small modern porcelain tile kitchen/dining room combo idea in Orange County with beige walls and no fireplace

This apartment, in the heart of Princeton, is exactly what every Princeton University fan dreams of having! The Princeton orange is bright and cheery. Photo credits; Bryhn Design/Build

Open concept kitchen - large modern single-wall light wood floor and beige floor open concept kitchen idea in Miami with flat-panel cabinets, quartz countertops, an island, an undermount sink, white cabinets and stainless steel appliances

Thanks to recently-passed state and local laws, it is easier for Californians to add a detached structure to their property. Known as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), these structures are becoming a popular choice for on-site caregivers, housing for family members, and for short- or long-term rentals. Designing and building an Accessory Dwelling Unit is a large, complex investment. You need someone who knows the ADU laws and has expertise in designing and installing smaller structures. Here at Backyard Unlimited, we have spent the last decade installing hundreds of accessory structures throughout California. Our team knows the ADU laws and what it takes to get them permitted and approved. We only use our own employees to design, assemble, and finish our structures. It’s not surprising that discerning property owners choose Backyard Unlimited as their ADU design/build contractor. Visit our website to see ADU designs and floorplans and to start a conversation on designing your own custom backyard ADU.

I’m thrilled to share this no fuss, California sun and sand lifestyle inspired nursery. Our client, a real busy working mom, took advantage of YouthfulNest’s time-saving virtual design services to transform her guest room into a serene baby room. To accomplish her vision we curated furnishings and décor in lots of white, neutrals and a few muted colors. Completing the look are pieces in natural wood finishes. Not only is this a sea glass gem, it also includes various pieces that promote superior functionality, convenience and/or safety. We want moms and other caregivers to feel as comfortable and confident in their baby rooms as they would in any other room in their home. We believe this room exemplifies that goal. See complete room tour on the YouthfulNest blog, "California Dreamin', a Gender Neutral Nursery". Photo credit: Suzzane Brown, simplybysuzy.com

I’m thrilled to share this no fuss, California sun and sand lifestyle inspired nursery. Our client, a real busy working mom, took advantage of YouthfulNest’s time-saving virtual design services to transform her guest room into a serene baby room. To accomplish her vision we curated furnishings and décor in lots of white, neutrals and a few muted colors. Completing the look are pieces in natural wood finishes. Not only is this a sea glass gem, it also includes various pieces that promote superior functionality, convenience and/or safety. We want moms and other caregivers to feel as comfortable and confident in their baby rooms as they would in any other room in their home. We believe this room exemplifies that goal. See complete room tour on the YouthfulNest blog, "California Dreamin', a Gender Neutral Nursery". Photo credit: Suzzane Brown, simplybysuzy.com

Staircase - cottage staircase idea in San Francisco

I’m thrilled to share this no fuss, California sun and sand lifestyle inspired nursery. Our client, a real busy working mom, took advantage of YouthfulNest’s time-saving virtual design services to transform her guest room into a serene baby room. To accomplish her vision we curated furnishings and décor in lots of white, neutrals and a few muted colors. Completing the look are pieces in natural wood finishes. Not only is this a sea glass gem, it also includes various pieces that promote superior functionality, convenience and/or safety. We want moms and other caregivers to feel as comfortable and confident in their baby rooms as they would in any other room in their home. We believe this room exemplifies that goal. See complete room tour on the YouthfulNest blog, "California Dreamin', a Gender Neutral Nursery". Photo credit: Suzzane Brown, simplybysuzy.com

I’m thrilled to share this no fuss, California sun and sand lifestyle inspired nursery. Our client, a real busy working mom, took advantage of YouthfulNest’s time-saving virtual design services to transform her guest room into a serene baby room. To accomplish her vision we curated furnishings and décor in lots of white, neutrals and a few muted colors. Completing the look are pieces in natural wood finishes. Not only is this a sea glass gem, it also includes various pieces that promote superior functionality, convenience and/or safety. We want moms and other caregivers to feel as comfortable and confident in their baby rooms as they would in any other room in their home. We believe this room exemplifies that goal. See complete room tour on the YouthfulNest blog, "California Dreamin', a Gender Neutral Nursery". Photo credit: Suzzane Brown, simplybysuzy.com

I’m thrilled to share this no fuss, California sun and sand lifestyle inspired nursery. Our client, a real busy working mom, took advantage of YouthfulNest’s time-saving virtual design services to transform her guest room into a serene baby room. To accomplish her vision we curated furnishings and décor in lots of white, neutrals and a few muted colors. Completing the look are pieces in natural wood finishes. Not only is this a sea glass gem, it also includes various pieces that promote superior functionality, convenience and/or safety. We want moms and other caregivers to feel as comfortable and confident in their baby rooms as they would in any other room in their home. We believe this room exemplifies that goal. See complete room tour on the YouthfulNest blog, "California Dreamin', a Gender Neutral Nursery". Photo credit: Suzzane Brown, simplybysuzy.com

A place to regenerate Kitchen Sitting Area
Family room - small transitional open concept medium tone wood floor family room idea in Philadelphia with beige walls, a two-sided fireplace, a stone fireplace and no tv

Example of a transitional powder room design in Louisville

Open concept to maximize functional use of space for residents and caregivers. Universal design elements to maximize independence and remove barriers in areas of high use by residents with mixed abilities, e.g. pedestal table accommodates wheel chairs and is a stable design, unique framing and drywall removes all sharp corners and enables mobility with walkers and wheelchairs, vinyl flooring with sealed seams for an easy rolling surface for walkers and wheelchairs, ductless mini-splits with independent controls empowers control of temperature in each room. Discrete staff work area in kitchen with locking cabinetry for privacy of medical records and storage of medications. Light, bright, happy and safe with views of the outside neighborhood. Designed for independence, mobility and safety for residents with developmental disabilities living in a house with extra care provided.