AVENTURA MAGAZINE selected our client’s luxury 5000 Sf ocean front apartment in Miami Beach, to publish it in their issue and they Said: Story by Linda Marx, Photography by Daniel Newcomb Light & Bright New York snowbirds redesigned their Miami Beach apartment to take advantage of the tropical lifestyle. WHEN INTERIOR DESIGNER JENNIFER CORREDOR was asked to recreate a four-bedroom, six-bath condominium at The Bath Club in Miami Beach, she seized the opportunity to open the rooms and better utilize the vast ocean views. In five months last year, the designer transformed a dark and closed 5,000-square-foot unit located on a high floor into a series of sweeping waterfront spaces and updated the well located apartment into a light and airy retreat for a sports-loving family of five. “They come down from New York every other weekend and wanted to make their waterfront home a series of grand open spaces,” says Corrredor, of the J. Design Group in Coral Gables, a firm specializing in modern and contemporary interiors. “Since many of the rooms face the ocean, it made sense to open and lighten up the home, taking advantage of the awesome views of the sea and the bay.” The designer used 40 x 40 all white tile throughout the apartment as a clean base. This way, her sophisticated use of color would stand out and bring the outdoors in. The close-knit family members—two parents and three boys in college—like to do things together. But there were situations to overcome in the process of modernizing and opening the space. When Corredor was briefed on their desires, nothing seemed too daunting. The confident designer was ready to delve in. For example, she fixed an area at the front door that was curved. “The wood was concave so I straightened it out,” she explains of a request from the clients. “It was an obstacle that I overcame as part of what I do in a redesign. I don’t consider it a difficult challenge. Improving what I see is part of the process.” She also tackled the kitchen with gusto by demolishing a wall. The kitchen had formerly been enclosed, which was a waste of space and poor use of available waterfront ambience. To create a grand space linking the kitchen to the living room and dining room area, something had to go. Once the wall was yesterday’s news, she relocated the refrigerator and freezer (two separate appliances) to the other side of the room. This change was a natural functionality in the new open space. “By tearing out the wall, the family has a better view of the kitchen from the living and dining rooms,” says Corredor, who also made it easier to walk in and out of one area and into the other. “The views of the larger public space and the surrounding water are breathtaking. Opening it up changed everything.” They clients can now see the kitchen from the living and dining areas, and at the same time, dwell in an airy and open space instead of feeling stuck in a dark enclosed series of rooms. In fact, the high-top bar stools that Corredor selected for the kitchen can be twirled around to use for watching TV in the living room. In keeping with the theme of moving seamlessly from one room to the other, Corredor designed a subtle wall of glass in the living room along with lots of comfortable seating. This way, all family members feel at ease while relaxing, talking, or watching sporting events on the large flat screen television. “For this room, I wanted more open space, light and a supreme airy feeling,” she says. “With the glass design making a statement, it quickly became the star of the show.”……. ….. To add texture and depth, Corredor custom created wood doors here, and in other areas of the home. They provide a nice contrast to the open Florida tropical feel. “I added character to the openness by using exotic cherry wood,” she says. “I repeated this throughout the home and it works well.” Known for capturing the client’s vision while adding her own innovative twists, Corredor lightened the family room, giving it a contemporary and modern edge with colorful art and matching throw pillows on the sofas. She added a large beige leather ottoman as the center coffee table in the room. This round piece was punctuated with a bold-toned flowering plant atop. It effortlessly matches the pillows and colors of the contemporary canvas. 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Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island. Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair. “We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia. The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design. “When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.” Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space. The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace. The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said. “Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island. Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair. “We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia. The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design. “When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.” Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space. The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace. The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said. “Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

Dave Wilhide of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Woodbridge, VA collaborated with Professional Home Improvements to create a transitional kitchen remodel featuring Merillat Classic cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are the Rowan 5-piece door style in a Mist finish. The countertop is Absolute Black granite. Also included in the remodel is a Maravilla Aleutian Isles Aluminum Linear Marble Mosaic backsplash. The client expressed their satisfaction with Dave's coordination of the project. “Determining color scheme took time as supply chain issues and using multiple vendors for appliances was a challenge. Working with Dave was the bright spot as he was the conduit who made everything easier. The suggestions made by Dave to find the right cabinets balancing costs and objectives especially on the pantry cabinet and wine rack helped keep everything in a budget.” “My favorite part of the new kitchen is the larger look gained by removing the soffit and raising the cabinets to the ceiling. My favorite cabinet is the three drawer base cabinet made for pots and pans. No more bending over to dig around and find cooking pots. Everything is now easy to get to,” said the client. Photos courtesy of BTW Images.

Transforming a classic Riverdale semi-detached home requires more than just good design—it demands precision, strategy, and a respect for how these older Toronto homes were originally built. This renovation on Withrow Ave came with all the challenges you’d expect from working in the city: restricted access for equipment, tight parking conditions, and trades working inches away from neighbouring homes. The homeowners didn’t want a cosmetic update—they wanted a home that felt brighter, more open, and easier to live in day-to-day. Achieving that meant removing structural walls, installing engineered beams, and pulling as much natural light through the space as possible. At the same time, they envisioned a new basement walkout that would change how they used the lower level, making it a real part of their everyday routine instead of a dark, overlooked space. The transformation is dramatic. The ground floor now feels like an entirely different home, with clean sightlines and a sense of openness that didn’t exist before. Light moves through the space naturally, and the new layout finally matches how a modern Toronto family wants to live. The basement walkout has become a functional everyday entry point—perfect for dropping off gear, coming and going effortlessly, and accessing ample storage space. This project is proof that even the most traditional Toronto semi can be completely reimagined when design and construction work hand in hand with purpose.

Patrice's Bathroom. I enjoyed developing the details of the tub platform extending through the frameless glass and becoming the shower seat.I had hoped that the tile in the shower would have extended out of the shower and become the backsplash, but that part of the design was not developed at Halpern Architects. One of the challenges of doing an Extreme Makeover house is developing details that can be field assembled quickly. In this case, working with Nationwide Homes, the modular home company that built "The boxes", a range of details were developed to make things easier. The tub and surround was installed By Nationwide. To facilitate connections and service without the visual or technical complications of an access panel, access was provided from below. Throughout the design process, I had insisted that all of the plumbing, mechanical and electrical connections occur in the crawlspace, allowing the work to continue without crowding the interior of the house. Many of the time saving details were worked out through a great working relationship between Fusion Custom Homes, who was the general contractor, Nationwide Homes, who was the modular home manufacturer, and Halpern Architects.The crawlspace was constructed taller than usual with nearly full standing headroom and a full height access door was provided from the exterior, allowing workman to come and go at will, without having to enter the house. This also allowed multiple trades to stock the job and work at the same time.

Located at the top of Flagstaff Rd., this new 4,700sf. mountain modern home embodies all there is to enjoy about Colorado. The owners love animals – and their bustling foothills ranch includes horses, dogs, cats and a couple of two footed little ones. Staying connected to nature was paramount to the owners. The home sits on a magnificent, private 35 acre property adjacent to Open Space, and covered in Doug Fir, beautiful rock outcroppings and open pastures. The house gracefully steps down the challenging terrain, stitching it into the hillside. This passive solar home is oriented to the epic views to the south. The soaring Great room, dining room and kitchen open out onto a giant covered porch for the ultimate in indoor/outdoor living. The open floor plan allows sunlight and views from every direction. The gourmet kitchen can accommodate the whole family and is filled with custom details. Making life a little easier and more organized for the owners, they enter from the garage through a hard-working mud room/laundry with dog wash. The family dogs are a central part of their lives and the owner asked that we design bespoke kennels built-into the live-edge, Doug Fir slab casework in the dining room, so that the dogs could be with the family during meals, without giant plastic crates dominating the room. The home is filled with custom details like built-in art niches in the Great Room, a unique front entry porch, and cozy window seats in the kid’s bedrooms. Below a unique Aspen leaf chandelier, follow the stone walled stairwell down to the walk-out basement. The lower level includes a guest room, exercise room, a rec room/media room with wet-bar, and opens to a hot tub and a mountain lion-safe outdoor dog run. The house is divided into three parts: the detached garage, the main social spaces + guest & kids bedrooms, and the Primary bedroom suite. From the Great Room, the owners cross a dramatic glass bridge to reach the primary suite, giving a sense of privacy to this special retreat. The primary bedroom has a window seat, magical views, vaulted ceilings, its own private covered patio, and a barn door to the bathroom. The primary bathroom has a striking slot window between the floating vanities, again connecting the owners to nature at every turn. The sculptural soaking tub sits on an elevated plinth in a recessed nook – ideal for watching the deer, elk, moose, coyotes, raptors, turkeys, foxes, bears and mountain lions walk by. The property also boasts a detached horse barn and hay barn, and an outdoor riding ring. The near-Net-Zero (HERS 10) home’s green features include a ground source heat pump, 10KwH of solar photovoltaics, an ERV, foam insulation, and Energy Star windows. The native landscaping conserves water and minimized disruption to the idyllic site.

Masterful Wallpaper Installation Wicker Park: A Botanical Retreat Professional Craftsmanship in the Heart of Chicago When it comes to high-end interior design, Wallpaper Installation Wicker Park requires more than just a DIY spirit. It demands an eye for symmetry and a hand for precision. This recent project involved a complex, large-scale botanical pattern. Our goal was to create a seamless focal point behind a classic French-style headboard. Overcoming the Challenge Chicago’s historic homes often have walls that aren't perfectly square. This makes pattern matching extremely difficult. However, our team used laser levels to ensure a perfectly vertical start. Additionally, we handled the delicate paper with care to avoid over-stretching. We chose a high-tack, low-moisture adhesive. This prevents the paper from shrinking as it dries in our variable Chicago climate. Pro Tip for Chicago Homeowners: Always invest in a "wall liner" or high-quality primer before your Wallpaper Installation Wicker Park. This protects your drywall. Furthermore, it makes future removal much easier if you ever decide to change your style! See our full gallery of transformations: https://windypainters.com/wallpaper/

Transforming a classic Riverdale semi-detached home requires more than just good design—it demands precision, strategy, and a respect for how these older Toronto homes were originally built. This renovation on Withrow Ave came with all the challenges you’d expect from working in the city: restricted access for equipment, tight parking conditions, and trades working inches away from neighbouring homes. The homeowners didn’t want a cosmetic update—they wanted a home that felt brighter, more open, and easier to live in day-to-day. Achieving that meant removing structural walls, installing engineered beams, and pulling as much natural light through the space as possible. At the same time, they envisioned a new basement walkout that would change how they used the lower level, making it a real part of their everyday routine instead of a dark, overlooked space. The transformation is dramatic. The ground floor now feels like an entirely different home, with clean sightlines and a sense of openness that didn’t exist before. Light moves through the space naturally, and the new layout finally matches how a modern Toronto family wants to live. The basement walkout has become a functional everyday entry point—perfect for dropping off gear, coming and going effortlessly, and accessing ample storage space. This project is proof that even the most traditional Toronto semi can be completely reimagined when design and construction work hand in hand with purpose.

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life. Understanding Their Needs: From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved. Addressing Their Concerns: We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises. Our Personalized Solutions: We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires: ● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience. ● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine. ● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience. ● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives. ● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Navigating the Challenges Together: Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process. The Joy of Transformation: The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. A Space to Cherish: The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together. Memorable Moments and Hiccups: ● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

A work-smart kitchen layout was a must for this homeowner. That’s why she got together with the Renovisions team. In the old kitchen, lack of enough cabinet space and organized storage, created an overflowing situation with contents pushed to the countertops, making it hard to escape the clutter. Moreover, the inconvenient position of the refrigerator made entering and exiting the kitchen literally a squeeze. Redesigning the kitchen was a challenge but Ed envisioned a new spacious layout that naturally flowed between all work areas. At the top of the must-have list was the addition of an Island with an electric cooktop and much needed deep drawer storage. To create a better flow, the work surfaces, storage and appliances were arranged in the most functional way. The microwave was built into the cabinetry with an adjacent pull-out spice rack and it is closer to the refrigerator making reheating food easier. The key part of overhauling this kitchen was upgrading the cabinetry, countertops, and appliances as well as adding a unique backsplash tile. Renovisions suggested the gorgeous maple wood cabinetry with a light grey stain. The stainless steel appliances play off the grey cabinetry, colorful veining in the granite countertops and attractive glass subway tile, giving the kitchen a sleeker and more modern look.

THIS TRANSITIONAL KITCHEN AND AND BATH REMODEL IN NORTH ASHEVILLE HAS CLEAN LINES AND A SLEEK LOOK. HomeSource Builders completed the demolition and subcontracted the installation, under the expert guidance of Project Manager Corey Rogers. A striking feature, he relates, is the tiling installed by Mosaic Custom Tile. “In my opinion,” he said, “the tile setters really made the kitchen stand out with the clean lines and sleek look the clients were trying to achieve.” In addition to the backsplash tile, HomeSource installed the kitchen and bathroom cabinets as well as the kitchen and bath quartz countertops. It’s extraordinarily helpful when clients have well-defined goals. “These clients were ideal, and made my job much easier,” Corey said. “They were very detailed and knew exactly what they wanted.” Since the clients were renovating all bathrooms in the house, a challenge to overcome was phasing the project so that the client had a working bathroom at all times. This hurdle was easily overcome, though, with skillfully choreographed scheduling. Designer Christy Dunlap of HomeSource Design Center led the design charge. “Besides the pleasure of working with two delightful people,” she said, “it was great to design a beautiful navy kitchen with walnut accents.” Subcontractors employed to complete the remodel were French Broad Plumbing, Wired Right Electrical, Mountain Air Mechanical Contractors, Inc., Mosaic Custom Tile, Haywood Appliance, New Image Home Improvement, and Victor Chapina Painting. CREDITS: Kitchen Backsplash: Daltile Color Wheel Arctic White Gloss Kitchen Countertops: Cambria Britannica w/ eased edge profile Kitchen Cabinets: North American Cabinets – Austin (shaker) door style, Maple wood w/ Benjamin Moore Paint Evening Sky Kitchen Cabinets Upper: Black Walnut with clear glass doors Master Bath Cabinets: North American Cabinets, MDF Frameless with Taupe Paint Master Bath Countertops: Cambria Britannica Guest Bath Cabinet: Wellborn Premier Series: Alto Door Style, MDF, Bleu Paint Guest Bath Countertop: Caesar Stone Quartz: Bianco Drift

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!

“Full apartment design”. IF you have not yet seen this apartment conversion before, we strongly urge you to go to the bottom left of this page and click on the short 2-minutes video. It would put a lot of things into perspective when you come back and continue reading this. It is true we were literally handed the keys and told a list of things that they wanted to have happen and we were to go into the apartment, look at the space and come up with a design that would satisfy all of that need. UNTIL we showed up! The unit had really seen some better days but we knew we had to look past that and come up with a concept that would work for them. The immediate challenges were centered around 3 big ideas: 1. Adding a second bedroom to the already small footprint 2. Figuring out a way to make the kitchen bigger, better and brighter 3. Creating a master room walk in closet It’s always difficult to add new rooms into existing footprint without expanding out or up and not incurring any opportunity cost. In this case, that was exactly what we had to do. Item one and two above had to be tackled as one. We went ahead and switched out the location of the dining room and eliminating an area where there was a “nook” type eat-in area. By doing so, we were able to cut right into that footprint and change the layout of the kitchen. That one move allowed us to dig into the kitchen design because it was now the main focal point in the apartment. It was no longer an option to keep it in that tiny hole where it was, so we had to ensure that this design was functional and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. By adding the table into the space where an Island typically would go, we were able to both cut cost and still provide a dining experience. The Table serves as an Island as well when cooking. We then proceeded to block in the existing doorway to the dining room. By doing this, we were able to create a full room which allowed us to put a door on the other side and called that room Bedroom #2. This was easier to do because all of the mechanicals were already in that space (light, heater and windows). By shifting things around, we also achieved a huge wall to wall closet from inside. PERFECT! Then we moved into the Single bedroom. We thought it was a big room with a small closet, so by creatively adding an L shaped wall and steal some footprint into the bedroom side, we were able to put a door on that new room and design it for the walk-in closet. Even after this, the bedroom still holds a queen size bed with 2 night stands, a TV on the wall, a sitting chair and plenty of room to walk around. This was done by rethinking the location for the bed and night stands. The bathroom was gutted to make sure there was no leaks and rebuild from the ground up. We kept all of the plumbing where it was, added a new vanity, medicine cabinet, tiles and lighting and it was done. From there, the rest of the unit had new flooring all throughout, paint, and lighting. After completion and walk through, this project was handed over back to the clients. Execution and collaboration between all the trades were: Reggie and his team from Premier Interiors and Rohan from RD Mechanical Services. p.s. Please see our website to see the video.

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life. Understanding Their Needs: From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved. Addressing Their Concerns: We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises. Our Personalized Solutions: We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires: ● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience. ● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine. ● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience. ● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives. ● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Navigating the Challenges Together: Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process. The Joy of Transformation: The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. A Space to Cherish: The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together. Memorable Moments and Hiccups: ● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

THIS TRANSITIONAL KITCHEN AND AND BATH REMODEL IN NORTH ASHEVILLE HAS CLEAN LINES AND A SLEEK LOOK. HomeSource Builders completed the demolition and subcontracted the installation, under the expert guidance of Project Manager Corey Rogers. A striking feature, he relates, is the tiling installed by Mosaic Custom Tile. “In my opinion,” he said, “the tile setters really made the kitchen stand out with the clean lines and sleek look the clients were trying to achieve.” In addition to the backsplash tile, HomeSource installed the kitchen and bathroom cabinets as well as the kitchen and bath quartz countertops. It’s extraordinarily helpful when clients have well-defined goals. “These clients were ideal, and made my job much easier,” Corey said. “They were very detailed and knew exactly what they wanted.” Since the clients were renovating all bathrooms in the house, a challenge to overcome was phasing the project so that the client had a working bathroom at all times. This hurdle was easily overcome, though, with skillfully choreographed scheduling. Designer Christy Dunlap of HomeSource Design Center led the design charge. “Besides the pleasure of working with two delightful people,” she said, “it was great to design a beautiful navy kitchen with walnut accents.” Subcontractors employed to complete the remodel were French Broad Plumbing, Wired Right Electrical, Mountain Air Mechanical Contractors, Inc., Mosaic Custom Tile, Haywood Appliance, New Image Home Improvement, and Victor Chapina Painting. CREDITS: Kitchen Backsplash: Daltile Color Wheel Arctic White Gloss Kitchen Countertops: Cambria Britannica w/ eased edge profile Kitchen Cabinets: North American Cabinets – Austin (shaker) door style, Maple wood w/ Benjamin Moore Paint Evening Sky Kitchen Cabinets Upper: Black Walnut with clear glass doors Master Bath Cabinets: North American Cabinets, MDF Frameless with Taupe Paint Master Bath Countertops: Cambria Britannica Guest Bath Cabinet: Wellborn Premier Series: Alto Door Style, MDF, Bleu Paint Guest Bath Countertop: Caesar Stone Quartz: Bianco Drift

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life. Understanding Their Needs: From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved. Addressing Their Concerns: We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises. Our Personalized Solutions: We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires: ● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience. ● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine. ● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience. ● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives. ● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Navigating the Challenges Together: Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process. The Joy of Transformation: The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. A Space to Cherish: The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together. Memorable Moments and Hiccups: ● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

This 5,000 SF design/build townhouse was completely renovated for a new family of young professionals. The house design incorporates a new elevator, making it easier for the owners to entertain guests and friends over the 6 different levels of this urban dwelling. The kitchen and dining room are located on the garden level, adjacent to the lush backyard of the property. The garden level is connected to the 1st floor living room visually via a double height space with a balcony. A new rooftop patio was created with a kitchenette and chefs BBQ overlooking the NYC Uptown landscape. Finally one of the greatest challenges of this house was to create a full height cellar which was achieved by blasting the bedrock under the house.

Entertaining and bringing people together is what this family is all about. Birthdays involve amazing cakes like you see on those TV shows, and groups of 30 people or more. Their ideal kitchen needed to accommodate that level of baking and hosting, but also support the daily rhythms of life. Our collaborative design was guided by Vastu Shastra, an ancient architectural tradition that predates feng shui. Based on Vedic traditions that harmonize human behavior with natural forces in the world, Vastu Shanstra basically suggests how to inhabit a place in the best way possible. The objectives were: -Relocate the entire kitchen so the home’s heat source (oven) is in the southeast -Incorporate symmetry into the overall design -Create a large space for entertaining – open and airy with lots of light -Simultaneously separate but join cooking and gathering spaces, allowing the cook to have a cook-specific zone that is still a part of any gathering -Individual storage for small appliances – making them easier to use -Simplicity – the space should be easy to use and maintain Design challenges we solved for: -Incorporate three load bearing points of the house -Provide structural support that was not obvious -Reconfigure kitchen utilities to another part of the home -Maximize storage space Design solutions and mindful innovations became an exciting motivation that drove the project: -Double-horseshoe design features two symmetrical islands that seat 18 people comfortably -Downdraft ventilation behind rangetop allows unobstructed views -Overhead beams for structural support -Equip nearby dining room with locking bar and wine cabinet -Roll-out appliance shelves on back of cooking island are powered for easy use -Symmetrical fridge and freezer columns separated by oven -Cabinets along back of the cooking area for everyday items -Tall pantry cabinet has four drawers for paperwork -Spacious walk-in storage pantry has a counter with power outlets -Coffee station has a trash can directly below for easy clean up -Two sinks and dishwashers for easy cleanup “A lot of relationships are built over food,” the homeowner told us. “This [kitchen] keeps our family close because we all love food. My kids sit in the kitchen all evening long every day – and I’m right there cooking. That’s life –to be together.” We also collaborated with the homeowners to remodel their primary bathroom, primary bedroom closet and an additional bathroom.