Search results for "Challenging aspects" in Home Design Ideas

Jen Denham of Reico Kitchen and Bath in White Plains, MD collaborated with Potomac LLC to create a transitional kitchen remodel featuring Masterpiece Cabinets.
The kitchen design features Masterpiece Cabinets in the Knoxville Evercore door style with a Dove White finish, complemented by MSI Q Calacatta Leon Gold quartz countertops.
The kitchen also includes Armonie Piccadilly Bianco White Gloss 4x12 tile and JennAir appliances provided by the homeowner.
According to Jen, the biggest challenge was removing an oddly shaped center raised bar island. "We wanted the space to feel as large, open, and bright as possible. The original layout featured dark cabinets with drab laminate countertops. The clients removed the old island to create a large, open island and design where everyone can sit and help with food prep."
“The larger island draws your eyes across the entire kitchen, making the space look larger and more open. By stacking the cabinets to the ceiling, we added much-needed cabinet storage. A bump wall of tall cabinetry was created along the fridge and oven run to provide a more built-in, custom appearance. We included a tall cabinet with roll-outs to create a hidden "bar" for alcohol storage, clearing the counters while making it more accessible and organized. We also extended the width of the island to create a concealed area for stools, which can be tucked away when not in use. To match their flooring, we added beautiful cherry floating shelves that bring a pop of color and serve as a focal point for the decorative hood and professional gas range top.”
"After everything was completed, the clients were most excited about two aspects: the new spice storage drawer and the fact that the island was large enough to bring in groceries without needing to place items on the floor. They could now fit everything on the island and put away their items with less hassle."
Photos courtesy of BTW Images.

Transforming this open loft space into a functional and stylish family room was no small feat. Serving as both a central gathering area and a thoroughfare to other top-floor rooms, the layout presented unique challenges. Shweta boldly embraced these obstacles by enveloping the entire space in a rich, moody green hue, creating an illusion of greater expanse.
With a keen eye for design, she meticulously zoned the room into distinct yet interconnected areas: a cozy seating ensemble, a captivating TV focal point, a practical hallway, and a custom-built bar. Remarkably, Shweta's DIY prowess came to the fore as she tackled every aspect of the project herself, from installing shiplap and a striking wallpaper mural to constructing the bespoke bar.
To furnish this versatile space, she selected a sophisticated linen sectional complemented by laid-back bean bag chairs, while opting for ottomans over a traditional coffee table to maximize comfort and flexibility. The bar area cleverly incorporates storage solutions, ensuring the room remains uncluttered and adaptable to various styling preferences. A curated collection of thrifted artwork adorns the walls, infusing the space with character and a delightful blend of old and new.

Gregg Waller of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Wilmington, NC collaborated with JC Hazelton Builders to design a farmhouse inspired kitchen featuring Green Forest and Masterpiece cabinetry.
The kitchen features Green Forest cabinets in the Park Place door style with a White finish for the perimeter, complemented with an island in the Masterpiece door style Turner in Maple with a Shortbread finish. Appliances and countertops were provided by others.
The client expressed their appreciation saying, “I literally love every aspect of our kitchen. It is exactly what we wanted. We did not have to sacrifice our vision which was a welcome experience. Gregg was so helpful in hearing what we wanted and then delivering. His knowledge about the products available really helped us achieve our design goals. He created digital examples of our kitchen, laundry and bathrooms which helped us in making our final decision.”
“The biggest challenge that I faced was creating the look the client wanted in their new home while staying within a budget that was set prior to our introduction. I decided that Green Forest Park Place cabinets would be the best choice for the majority of the project. Masterpiece cabinets were needed to get the exact color that the client wanted for the kitchen island,” explained Gregg.
“My favorite part of the design is the range wall. I like the way the warm wood tones of the hood balance the white shaker cabinets and brick backsplash. The clients were an absolute pleasure to work with. The excellent communication that I received from the client throughout definitely helped in the successful completion of the project!”
Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.
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Designed by Bryan Hunt of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Frederick MD in collaboration with Walker Works, this transitional style inspired design of a kitchen with a bar area just outside the kitchen features Merillat Classic cabinets in Rowan 5-piece door style in two finishes. The kitchen features a Mist finish with the bar area in a Pecan finish. The kitchen also features Silestone Tebas Black countertops and Whirlpool appliances.
The tile backsplash is Bliss Linear Glass Midnight and Elon Ledgerstone Ordino Beige.
“My biggest challenge in designing the space was to optimize it for functionality that would fit some of the constraints like the large window and small doorway,” said Hunt. “My favorite aspect is the boldness of the black counter top and the backsplash. I liked how the customer wasn’t afraid to be bold with darker colors.”
Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

This before picture showcases a Cape Cod home located in Dundalk with limited upstairs space and a less than desirable interior. At Monarch Bay Renovations, we undertook the challenge of completely gutting the home and embarking on a transformative journey to turn it into a stunning living space.
With our expertise in home remodeling, we took on the task of reimagining the entire layout and maximizing the available space. The project involved adding shed and gable dormers to expand the upstairs area, making it not only functional but also aesthetically appealing.
By carefully planning and executing the renovation, we completely revamped the interior, breathing new life into the home. From the walls to the floors, everything was redone to create a fresh and modern look. Our attention to detail and commitment to quality ensured that every aspect of the renovation was executed to perfection.
This before picture serves as a glimpse into the remarkable transformation that took place, showcasing the potential of a once limited and outdated Cape Cod home. Stay tuned to witness the incredible after picture, where the true beauty and functionality of the renovated space will be revealed.

Our challenge was to transform key areas of this home that were somewhat ignored in a previous renovation. Located in the heart of Larkspur, the reveal was a bright and modern home that marries seamlessly with the rest of the updates.
This home is a Historical Landmark, so we worked diligently to honor and protect the architecture and history as we design updates to the Entry, Stairs, Living Room and Dining Room. Splashes of color, texture, pattern, and shine were introduced to add charisma and breath new life. Now, the entire home serves all aspects of life for this happy family.

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

Transforming Outdoor Living: A Case Study of Our Elegant Backyard Project
In the heart of residential architecture, where outdoor spaces are extensions of our homes, a well-designed backyard can transform ordinary living into an extraordinary experience. Our latest project exemplifies this transformation by merging modern design, functionality, and aesthetic appeal into a single cohesive outdoor living space. This case study delves into the intricate details of our backyard project, highlighting the thoughtful design elements, strategic installations, and the ultimate impact on homeowners' lifestyles.
Conceptualization and Planning
The project's inception began with a thorough understanding of the client's vision. They desired a backyard that not only served as a retreat for relaxation but also as an elegant space for entertaining guests. The challenge was to create a multi-functional area that maintained a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living. Our design team conducted several site visits and consultations, ensuring every detail aligned with the client's expectations and the spatial dynamics of their home.
Design Elements
The design phase was driven by the principles of modern elegance and functionality. Central to the backyard is a sleek lap pool, designed for both leisurely swims and visual appeal. The pool's clean lines and contemporary finish are complemented by a modern water feature, adding a serene ambiance with the gentle sound of flowing water.
Adjacent to the pool, we installed a stylish pergola that provides shaded seating and dining areas. This pergola is not just a structural addition but a pivotal element that enhances the usability of the space. Underneath, an elegant dining setup allows for al fresco meals, while a comfortable seating area invites relaxation. The integration of outdoor lighting within the pergola ensures the space is usable and inviting even after sunset.
Greenery and Landscaping
Landscaping plays a crucial role in softening the modern hardscapes and adding a touch of nature. We selected a variety of lush plants and succulents, strategically placing them around the pool and along the fence line. Modern planters filled with cascading greenery add vertical interest and a touch of sophistication. The greenery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates a tranquil atmosphere, making the backyard a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Functional Installations
A key aspect of this project was to ensure that the backyard was as functional as it was beautiful. To this end, we included an outdoor kitchen equipped with a grill and preparation area. This setup allows the homeowners to host outdoor gatherings seamlessly, without the need to constantly shuttle between the indoor kitchen and the backyard.
Additionally, the installation of high-quality outdoor furniture ensures comfort and durability. Each piece was chosen for its ability to withstand various weather conditions while maintaining its aesthetic integrity. The dining and seating areas are both stylish and practical, encouraging long hours of enjoyment outdoors.
Impact and Reception
The completed project has significantly enhanced the homeowners' quality of life. The backyard has become a favorite spot for both everyday relaxation and special occasions. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces has created a versatile environment that adapts to different needs, from quiet afternoons by the pool to lively dinner parties under the pergola.
The client's feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the transformative power of thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship. They have expressed particular appreciation for the balance of modern aesthetics and natural elements, which together create a harmonious and inviting space.
Conclusion
This backyard project stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence in design and installation. By listening to our clients and meticulously planning each element, we have created an outdoor living space that exceeds expectations. It is not just a backyard; it is a carefully curated environment that enhances daily living and provides a beautiful backdrop for creating lasting memories. This project exemplifies how thoughtful design and strategic planning can transform an outdoor space into a true extension of the home.

From The Washington Post: "Developer Ahmad Khreshi of Northern Virginia-based Home Perfection Contracting isn’t afraid to take risks when building a house. He embraces the unexpected, challenging his architect, interior designer and builder to experiment with new techniques. This house in McLean, Va., is his most ambitious project to date.
Instead of remodeling an existing house such as the one that was featured as a House of the Week in 2016, Khreshi built an entirely new one.
Khreshi worked with architect Peter VanderPoel and designer Karen Bengel to create a modern house that borrows from Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy of incorporating the house in the landscape. The house has three distinct masses — garage, living and bedroom — and three levels, each one set at a different ground level.
The layout of the structure is one aspect of the design. Another is the influence of Mondrian style, named for Piet Mondrian, a modern abstract artist who popularized paintings with colorful arrangements of squares and rectangles.
“We wanted something different,” he said. “That’s what we are on the hunt for. We needed the house to stand out from the rest [of the houses], yet belong to the neighborhood.”
Designed first by hand and then by computer, the asymmetrical window pattern is laid out in the Mondrian style, which is repeated in the asymmetrical design of the Hardie board (fiber-cement siding) on one side of the house. The opposite side and the middle section are a combination of brick and yakisugi carbonized-wood siding. The yakisugi siding is heat-treated in a way similar to an ancient Japanese technique, with the wood burned to give it a carbon layer that protects it from insects and decay."
Read the full article on The Washington Post here.

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

Room enough for a blended family was the challenge for this full home remodel completed by DJL Builders. This two story remodel expresses simply elegant coloration combined with classic elements and detailing. The main floor open concept includes a kitchen, living and dining area as well as a nearby guest bedroom and full bath. Upstairs features a spacious master suite, two bedrooms and full bath.
Project Location: Plymouth, MI
CJ South Photography

Acton, MA
2008
sq ft varies
Visioning, programming, concept design, schematic design, construction documentation and construction administration
The HingeHouse project was the result of a unique partnership between an independent architect and a pre-fabricated home manufacturer – a partnership among the first of its kind in the country. Today, many pre-fab companies have adopted this collaborative approach recognizing that homeowners are looking for unique, custom homes while taking advantage of reliable and predictable construction methods and costs.
In 2008, the partnership was created to rethink pre-engineered post-and-beam and panelized systems to connect clients to a more modern and integrated set of design values. By integrating systems, factory design approach, manufacturing methodologies and construction sequences with design criteria grounded in sustainable planning and rigorous implementation, HingeHouse was developed.
HingeHouse is a fully-customizable pre-fab home which can be configured to meet the needs of any site, and any family. It is flexible and expandable using Deck House engineered building components. Starting with basic floor plans that are optimized spatially to Deck’s standard components, the living spaces are rotated around a "hinge” point. This design solution addresses the limitations and challenges of a particular site, while highlighting the best aspects of it. HingeHouse considers passive solar orientation depending on where the home is placed on the site and how it is “hinged”. It provides for maximum cross-ventilation from prevailing winds, preserves existing site formations and trees, and works on sloping grades. It addresses specific desired views while mitigating unwanted adjacencies, and provides great flexibility for entry sequences.
HingeHouse uses Deck’s standard sloped roof post-and-beam component system to create a lyrical, light-filled home. The western red cedar exterior is sculptural and dynamic. Interior spaces are lofty, with great view potential using Deck’s own custom-made mahogany windows. The “hinge” of the home, where the two building forms come together, has the added benefit of creating a desirable outdoor living room, complete with an outdoor fireplace. The "hinge” provides both a tool for maximizing customization and spatial orientation and a center of activity at the heart of the home.
Since this partnership in 2008, Maryann Thompson Architects and MATHISON | MATHISON ARCHITECTS have worked with Acorn Deck House Company on numerous full or partial pre-fab projects in the Boston Area, Western Massachusetts, Maryland and Michigan. We have become an advocate for their services and products because it offers advantages on a variety of levels including schedule, cost and quality.
Services provided included visioning, programming, concept design, schematic design, construction documentation and construction administration.
Evan’s Role: Project Designer & Project Manager

The client was in the midst of a substantial renovation of a period property and sought a kitchen that would complement the home's historic character. The challenge was to design a kitchen that not only preserved the traditional aesthetic but also incorporated modern conveniences. Key elements included a large island for both cooking and casual dining, as well as a curved booth seating bench and bespoke oval Nolte table for the eating area. Additional functional aspects, such as a breakfast unit for small appliances like a toaster and a sideboard for added storage, were to be integrated seamlessly, extending the kitchen's theme into the adjoining living space.
For a timeless appeal, we opted for the Nolte Windsor range. The choice of the oval knob handles on the 721 White furniture shade delivered a contemporary classic feel that effortlessly blended with the newly constructed living area.
A 30mm Silestone Blanco Rivers worktop was paired with Nolte’s 40mm Holm Oak, offering both durability and a chic aesthetic. The kitchen was equipped with top-tier Kitchen Aid appliances - including a single oven, combination microwave, warming drawer, induction hob, and downdraft extraction. Complementing these were a full-height NEFF fridge, a 70/30 fridge freezer, and a dishwasher.
Prioritising both functionality and style, we incorporated a Blanco Sona 1 ½ sink in Alumetallic and a Quooker Fusion Classic Chrome instant boiling water tap. These additions ensure daily kitchen tasks are performed with utmost efficiency without compromising on design.
Ready to transform your space into a modern haven? Reach out to us today.

The first goal of this project was to address challenges with the home’s flooring and plumbing system. Additionally, the renovation of the guest and master bathrooms was required to meet the client’s preferences and enhance functionality. Ensuring that the new flooring and foundation repair solved the existing crack issue was a crucial aspect of the project. The remodel of the guest bathroom was aimed at making it more suitable for children’s use, while the overhaul of the master bathroom considered the overall style and functionality preferred by the client. Ultimately, the project aimed to enhance the aesthetic appeal and value of the client’s home while addressing the various renovation requirements.

Our challenge was to transform key areas of this home that were somewhat ignored in a previous renovation. Located in the heart of Larkspur, the reveal was a bright and modern home that marries seamlessly with the rest of the updates.
This home is a Historical Landmark, so we worked diligently to honor and protect the architecture and history as we design updates to the Entry, Stairs, Living Room and Dining Room. Splashes of color, texture, pattern, and shine were introduced to add charisma and breath new life. Now, the entire home serves all aspects of life for this happy family.

Gregg Waller of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Wilmington, NC collaborated with JC Hazelton Builders to design a farmhouse inspired kitchen featuring Green Forest and Masterpiece cabinetry.
The kitchen features Green Forest cabinets in the Park Place door style with a White finish for the perimeter, complemented with an island in the Masterpiece door style Turner in Maple with a Shortbread finish. Appliances and countertops were provided by others.
The client expressed their appreciation saying, “I literally love every aspect of our kitchen. It is exactly what we wanted. We did not have to sacrifice our vision which was a welcome experience. Gregg was so helpful in hearing what we wanted and then delivering. His knowledge about the products available really helped us achieve our design goals. He created digital examples of our kitchen, laundry and bathrooms which helped us in making our final decision.”
“The biggest challenge that I faced was creating the look the client wanted in their new home while staying within a budget that was set prior to our introduction. I decided that Green Forest Park Place cabinets would be the best choice for the majority of the project. Masterpiece cabinets were needed to get the exact color that the client wanted for the kitchen island,” explained Gregg.
“My favorite part of the design is the range wall. I like the way the warm wood tones of the hood balance the white shaker cabinets and brick backsplash. The clients were an absolute pleasure to work with. The excellent communication that I received from the client throughout definitely helped in the successful completion of the project!”
Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

The Chess Sofa is in stock with either Left or Right Facing Chaise at 122" x 61"/37.5" with a 27.5" head roll and three 21.75" x 25.5" x 2.75" cushions. Removable cover included.
Quick Ship Fabric is Gr. 3 Tangent 37. Samples available upon request. Several configurations available for special order.
Design: Jens Juul Eilersen
Chess is both a sofa and a module system. Choose a sofa that is 210 or 230 cm long. Or build your own unlimited 'sofa landscape', with the varied range of end sections, chaise long sections, corner sections and the centre sections without armrests. Chess provides you with as many possible combinations as does a chess game. Choose your next move and put those modules into play that will make Chess your personal winner.
Chess is a piece of sofa furniture that's alive and also moves in the depth. Two seat depths of 95 cm and 115 cm plus a chaise long 155 cm long make the sofa a piece of furniture that can be used in numerous ways. When you build in different depths you achieve a versatile, creative and personal expression and boost sitting comfort, which the quality of the down upper seat guarantees.
Chess challenges by fusing contrasts. modern and classic design. Heaviness and lightness. The substantial and strong frame is combined with a light armrest in a classic cut. In this way, Chess's style shows a breadth that matches the system's usability and versatility. One particularly flexible aspect is that you can purchase chess as free-standing sections. Other options are removable frame covers, loose down pillows, moveable neck-roll pillows and armrest covers.

This basement remodel held special significance for an expectant young couple eager to adapt their home for a growing family. Facing the challenge of an open layout that lacked functionality, our team delivered a complete transformation.
The project's scope involved reframing the layout of the entire basement, installing plumbing for a new bathroom, modifying the stairs for code compliance, and adding an egress window to create a livable bedroom. The redesigned space now features a guest bedroom, a fully finished bathroom, a cozy living room, a practical laundry area, and private, separate office spaces. The primary objective was to create a harmonious, open flow while ensuring privacy—a vital aspect for the couple. The final result respects the original character of the house, while enhancing functionality for the evolving needs of the homeowners expanding family.

In this Manhattan pied-à-terre renovation, Gallery tackled the entire apartment. A true full renovation, we updated the kitchen, master bathroom, and powder room, installed new flooring throughout the entire space, and built the entertainment center in the living room.
DESIGN DETAILS
The clients wanted their pied-à-terre to have some modern touches, but not too sleek or contemporary. Since it combines a number of styles and elements, transitional turned out to be their ideal aesthetic. Whites, grays, and earthy tones carried this color theme throughout the apartment.
One of the clients is an artist and wanted wall space to display their original work, visible in the dining area and powder room in the photos below. The entertainment center is another highlight, with its white mosaic brick tile accent wall and glass open shelves to display family photos on both sides.
Instead of tiles, the new powder room walls received a textured concrete application, resulting in an almost industrial vibe. In the master bathroom renovation, glass mosaic tile accent walls bring a touch of personality to both the shower and a storage nook opposite the vanity.
UNIQUELY-SHAPED ROOMS
We specialize in adapting to every potential challenge, including uniquely-shaped rooms like the nearly-triangular kitchen in this Manhattan pied-à-terre renovation.
It’s important to design an uncommonly-shaped space as practically as possible, including specs seemingly as small as sink positioning. Every little detail counts tenfold in a room that’s not rectangular!
Other design details in the kitchen renovation include the classic combination of Shaker-style cabinets and quartz countertops, with a glass mosaic backsplash that matches the one used in the bathroom.
VISIBILITY = TRUST
Communication is always a core value at Gallery, but it’s even more vital when working with bi-coastal clients who were in another state throughout almost the entire process. We met with them once; everything else was done virtually thanks to JobTracker, our project management system.
The client had complete visibility into the renovation, including all design renderings, scheduled installations, and daily progress videos and photos. Even though they were 3000 miles away, they had a direct line to everyone on the team at all times.
SOME HIGHLIGHTS
- Entertainment center designed and built to serve as focal point, with white brick mosaic accent wall and open shelves made of glass
- Track lighting for ease of displaying art and to preserve ceiling height instead of the dropped ceiling that recessed lighting would necessitate
- Deliberate consideration of space in the unusually-shaped, nearly triangular kitchen
- Glass mosaic tile accent walls in the master bathroom with matching tile for the backsplash in the kitchen
Thinking about renovating your bathroom? Contact us today to find out how you can benefit from our expertise in remodeling New York City bathrooms. As a design-and-build firm with a full-scale approach, we handle every single aspect of your home renovation from start to finish.

A person’s home is the place where their personality can flourish. In this client’s case, it was their love for their native homeland of Kenya, Africa. One of the main challenges with these space was to remain within the client’s budget. It was important to give this home lots of character, so hiring a faux finish artist to hand-paint the walls in an African inspired pattern for powder room to emphasizing their existing pieces was the perfect solution to staying within their budget needs. Each room was carefully planned to showcase their African heritage in each aspect of the home. The main features included deep wood tones paired with light walls, and dark finishes. A hint of gold was used throughout the house, to complement the spaces and giving the space a bit of a softer feel.
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