Search results for "Challenging task" in Home Design Ideas

Conceived more similar to a loft type space rather than a traditional single family home, the homeowner was seeking to challenge a normal arrangement of rooms in favor of spaces that are dynamic in all 3 dimensions, interact with the yard, and capture the movement of light and air.
As an artist that explores the beauty of natural objects and scenes, she tasked us with creating a building that was not precious - one that explores the essence of its raw building materials and is not afraid of expressing them as finished.
We designed opportunities for kinetic fixtures, many built by the homeowner, to allow flexibility and movement.
The result is a building that compliments the casual artistic lifestyle of the occupant as part home, part work space, part gallery. The spaces are interactive, contemplative, and fun.
More details to come.
credits:
design: Matthew O. Daby - m.o.daby design /
construction: Cellar Ridge Construction /
structural engineer: Darla Wall - Willamette Building Solutions /
photography: Erin Riddle - KLIK Concepts

Cluttered, dark, and chilly basements can be daunting spaces for remodeling. They tend to get filled with every old and unwanted item in the house from worn out furniture to childhood memorabilia .This basement was a really challenging task and we succeed to create really cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere—not like a basement at all. The work involved was extensive, from the foundation to new molding. Our aim was to create a unique space that would be as enjoyable as the rest of this home. We utilized the odd space under the stairs by incorporating a wet bar. We installed TV screen with surround sound system, that makes you feel like you are part of the action and cozy fireplace to cuddle up while enjoying a movie.

This 1970’s Ranch was purchased by a young family with active boys and animals. Changes were needed in this home for the family to be comfortable. With a very limited budget, Obelisk Home was challenged to be creative but keep with the clients sensibilities. We painted paneling, painted trim in custom colors, and took the room to a new level. High gloss paint on brick added to a bright open feel. New art, lighting, furniture and accessories were brought in to work with existing furniture that was incorporated from the clients Oklahoma home. Old, dark and full becomes light, airy and cozy.
Photos by Jeremy Mason McGraw
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The goal here is to install washer and dryer under countertop. To solve this task, countertop was elevated a little bit higher then average standard. Since space under countertop is busy with washer and dryer, the biggest challenge was to install sink boul. If simply put sink on the countertop, then it goes to high, because countertop already was elevated to allow washer and dryer remain under it. I did not consider shallow sinks, because they are not convenient at all. Also it was not possible to install under mount sink, because there are washer and dryer. Eventually i found sink that is half in, and half above countertop, and increase a little bit of countertop thickness. As a result this solution allow to have both washer and dryer, comfortable pretty deep sink and huge countertop to keep bathroom stuff on it.
Another important element in the bathroom is tankless electrical water heater, Its New York, so water tank for all units installed on the roof. Building is old and big, so sometimes building tank is lack of hot water. To set tankless electrical water heater two extra valves were installed on hot and cold pipes. In case there is no hot water, i close main hot water valve, open cold one that right before heater, to let cold water go inside heater, and open another valve, that deliver hot water into the system after heater. This task also required installation of new electrical cable, because tankless heaters requires a lot of power.
The last thing is pretty big, 48”x30”, embedded wall cabinet, with three big parts and mirror doors. To support this cabinet, extra wood frame structure was built inside wall, that was designed thicker to allow build-in cabinet set inside.

Cluttered, dark, and chilly basements can be daunting spaces for remodeling. They tend to get filled with every old and unwanted item in the house from worn out furniture to childhood memorabilia .This basement was a really challenging task and we succeed to create really cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere—not like a basement at all. The work involved was extensive, from the foundation to new molding. Our aim was to create a unique space that would be as enjoyable as the rest of this home. We utilized the odd space under the stairs by incorporating a wet bar. We installed TV screen with surround sound system, that makes you feel like you are part of the action and cozy fireplace to cuddle up while enjoying a movie.

Cabinetry – Kemper Echo Cabinetry
Hardware- Jeffrey Alexander stainless bar pulls
Countertops- Cambria Quartz Torquay
Sinks and Faucets- Blanco Anthracite undermount Silgranite sink. Moen Faucet Nickel
Appliances- Samsung French door refrigerator in stainless, Samsung slide in gas range, Whirlpool wall Oven/ Microwave combination, Bosch 500 series dishwasher, and Broan Elite series pro range hood.
Flooring- prefinished 3/4 oak hardwood.
Backsplash- Natural stone subway tile.
-Inspiration and Design Challenges
The Original kitchen in this 1970’s raised ranch was bright an open yet left the dining room closed off from the home and wasn’t large enough for the island that Joe and his wife would have liked. Joe and Tim from THI Co. had developed a plan relocate the kitchen to one exterior wall and allow for an island that would function for both seating and entertaining. The challenge we faced was the original windows of the kitchen had to completely go. Relying solely on the open floor plan for natural light, Tim opened up the Dining room wall, removed the dividing half wall to the family room and widened doorways to the great room leading from the kitchen and dining room. The removal of the soffits and consistent wood flooring help tie together the adjacent rooms. The plan was for simple clean lines with subtle detail brought out in the trim on the cabinetry and custom 10ft island back panel. Finding a set of appliances was the next task. The kitchen was designed with the intention of being used. The Whirlpool convection wall ovens give the kitchen 3 possible functioning ovens with along with the Samsung 5 burner range. The end result is a simple elegant design that has all the functionality of galley kitchen yet the feel of an open kitchen with twice the square footage.

This project was such an incredible design opportunity, and instilled inspiration and excitement at every turn! Our amazing clients came to us with the challenge of converting their beloved family home into a welcoming haven for all members of the family. At the time that we met our clients, they were struggling with the difficult personal decision of the fate of the home. Their father/father-in-law had passed away and their mother/mother-in-law had recently been admitted into a nursing facility and was fighting Alzheimer’s. Resistant to loss of the home now that both parents were out of it, our clients purchased the home to keep in in the family. Despite their permanent home currently being in New Jersey, these clients dedicated themselves to keeping and revitalizing the house. We were moved by the story and became immediately passionate about bringing this dream to life.
The home was built by the parents of our clients and was only ever owned by them, making this a truly special space to the family. Our goal was to revitalize the home and to bring new energy into every room without losing the special characteristics that were original to the home when it was built. In this way, we were able to develop a house that maintains its own unique personality while offering a space of welcoming neutrality for all members of the family to enjoy over time.
The renovation touched every part of the home: the exterior, foyer, kitchen, living room, sun room, garage, six bedrooms, three bathrooms, the laundry room, and everything in between. The focus was to develop a style that carried consistently from space to space, but allowed for unique expression in the small details in every room.
Starting at the entry, we renovated the front door and entry point to offer more presence and to bring more of the mid-century vibe to the home’s exterior. We integrated a new modern front door, cedar shingle accents, new exterior paint, and gorgeous contemporary house numbers that really allow the home to stand out. Just inside the entry, we renovated the foyer to create a playful entry point worthy of attention. Cement look tile adorns the foyer floor, and we’ve added new lighting and upgraded the entry coat storage.
Upon entering the home, one will immediately be captivated by the stunning kitchen just off the entry. We transformed this space in just about every way. While the footprint of the home ultimately remained almost identical, the aesthetics were completely turned on their head. We re-worked the kitchen to maximize storage and to create an informal dining area that is great for casual hosting or morning coffee.
We removed the entry to the garage that was once in the informal dining, and created a peninsula in its place that offers a unique division between the kitchen/informal dining and the formal dining and living areas. The simple light warm light gray cabinetry offers a bit of traditional elegance, along with the marble backsplash and quartz countertops. We extended the original wood flooring into the kitchen and stained all floors to match for a warmth that truly resonates through all spaces. We upgraded appliances, added lighting everywhere, and finished the space with some gorgeous mid century furniture pieces.
In the formal dining and living room, we really focused on maintaining the original marble fireplace as a focal point. We cleaned the marble, repaired the mortar, and refinished the original fireplace screen to give a new sleek look in black. We then integrated a new gas insert for modern heating and painted the upper portion in a rich navy blue; an accent that is carried through the home consistently as a nod to our client’s love of the color.
The former entry into the old covered porch is now an elegant glass door leading to a stunning finished sunroom. This room was completely upgraded as well. We wrapped the entire space in cozy white shiplap to keep a casual feel with brightness. We tiled the floor with large format concrete look tile, and painted the old brick fireplace a bright white. We installed a new gas burning unit, and integrated transitional style lighting to bring warmth and elegance into the space. The new black-frame windows are adorned with decorative shades that feature hand-sketched bird prints, and we’ve created a dedicated garden-ware “nook” for our client who loves to work in the yard. The far end of this space is completed with two oversized chaise loungers and overhead lights…the most perfect little reading nook!
Just off the dining room, we created an entirely new space to the home: a mudroom. The clients lacked this space and desperately needed a landing spot upon entering the home from the garage. We uniquely planned existing space in the garage to utilize for this purpose, and were able to create a small but functional entry point without losing the ability to park cars in the garage. This new space features cement-look tile, gorgeous deep brown cabinetry, and plenty of storage for all the small items one might need to store while moving in and out of the home.
The remainder of the upstairs level includes massive renovations to the guest hall bathroom and guest bedroom, upstairs master bed/bath suite, and a third bedroom that we converted into a home office for the client.
Some of the largest transformations were made in the basement, where unfinished space and lack of light were converted into gloriously lit, cozy, finished spaces. Our first task was to convert the massive basement living room into the new master bedroom for our clients. We removed existing built-ins, created an entirely new walk-in closet, painted the old brick fireplace, installed a new gas unit, added carpet, introduced new lighting, replaced windows, and upgraded every part of the aesthetic appearance. One of the most incredible features of this space is the custom double sliding barn door made by a Denver artisan. This space is truly a retreat for our clients!
We also completely transformed the laundry room, back storage room, basement master bathroom, and two bedrooms.
This home’s massive scope and ever-evolving challenges were thrilling and exciting to work with, and the result is absolutely amazing. At the end of the day, this home offers a look and feel that the clients love. Above all, though, the clients feel the spirit of their family home and have a welcoming environment for all members of the family to enjoy for years to come.

Renovating the worn master bath of this 1950’s contemporary ranch was a challenge, but the Renovisions team took the task in stride. The biggest design challenge was enlarging the bathroom while also creating a usable and functional sitting area adjacent to their master bedroom. A few of the design highlights included; the pocket door which created an unencumbered space in the bath, a larger sized shower with no door and a lineal drain with curbless shower entry, larger format porcelain tiles, a shower niche, heated floors with a programmable thermostat, and a one piece concealed trap skirted toilet. Clipping the corner wall upon entering the sitting room softened the shape of the room and ensured comfortable walking space through the hallway into the master bedroom.
The homeowners particularly love the customizations of the stylish designed vanity which included ample space to store bath supplies in the full extension drawers and a bottom shelf for towels. The custom Benjamin Moore dark blue/grey colored cabinetry and framed mirror looks stunning with the Silestone’s ‘Pulsar’ quartz countertop and shelf pieces. They also loved the gray-blue muted marble tones of the 12”x24” shower wall field tile and chose a bright mosaic-look tile for the rear wall of the shower niche. Replacing the older windows provided more natural light into both the bathroom and sitting room spaces. With spa-worthy, on-trend, creative uses of space, this ‘Renovision’ was enjoyed and appreciated by these homeowners!

This home remodel is a celebration of curves and light. Starting from humble beginnings as a basic builder ranch style house, the design challenge was maximizing natural light throughout and providing the unique contemporary style the client’s craved.
The Entry offers a spectacular first impression and sets the tone with a large skylight and an illuminated curved wall covered in a wavy pattern Porcelanosa tile.
The chic entertaining kitchen was designed to celebrate a public lifestyle and plenty of entertaining. Celebrating height with a robust amount of interior architectural details, this dynamic kitchen still gives one that cozy feeling of home sweet home. The large “L” shaped island accommodates 7 for seating. Large pendants over the kitchen table and sink provide additional task lighting and whimsy. The Dekton “puzzle” countertop connection was designed to aid the transition between the two color countertops and is one of the homeowner’s favorite details. The built-in bistro table provides additional seating and flows easily into the Living Room.
A curved wall in the Living Room showcases a contemporary linear fireplace and tv which is tucked away in a niche. Placing the fireplace and furniture arrangement at an angle allowed for more natural walkway areas that communicated with the exterior doors and the kitchen working areas.
The dining room’s open plan is perfect for small groups and expands easily for larger events. Raising the ceiling created visual interest and bringing the pop of teal from the Kitchen cabinets ties the space together. A built-in buffet provides ample storage and display.
The Sitting Room (also called the Piano room for its previous life as such) is adjacent to the Kitchen and allows for easy conversation between chef and guests. It captures the homeowner’s chic sense of style and joie de vivre.

Gulf-Front Grandeur
Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida
Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects
Builder: Hufham Farris Construction
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This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project.
We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors.
Challenges:
This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time.
Solution:
The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project.
However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves!
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Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects

Renovating the worn master bath of this 1950’s contemporary ranch was a challenge, but the Renovisions team took the task in stride. The biggest design challenge was enlarging the bathroom while also creating a usable and functional sitting area adjacent to their master bedroom. A few of the design highlights included; the pocket door which created an unencumbered space in the bath, a larger sized shower with no door and a lineal drain with curbless shower entry, larger format porcelain tiles, a shower niche, heated floors with a programmable thermostat, and a one piece concealed trap skirted toilet. Clipping the corner wall upon entering the sitting room softened the shape of the room and ensured comfortable walking space through the hallway into the master bedroom.
The homeowners particularly love the customizations of the stylish designed vanity which included ample space to store bath supplies in the full extension drawers and a bottom shelf for towels. The custom Benjamin Moore dark blue/grey colored cabinetry and framed mirror looks stunning with the Silestone’s ‘Pulsar’ quartz countertop and shelf pieces. They also loved the gray-blue muted marble tones of the 12”x24” shower wall field tile and chose a bright mosaic-look tile for the rear wall of the shower niche. Replacing the older windows provided more natural light into both the bathroom and sitting room spaces. With spa-worthy, on-trend, creative uses of space, this ‘Renovision’ was enjoyed and appreciated by these homeowners!

Cluttered, dark, and chilly basements can be daunting spaces for remodeling. They tend to get filled with every old and unwanted item in the house from worn out furniture to childhood memorabilia .This basement was a really challenging task and we succeed to create really cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere—not like a basement at all. The work involved was extensive, from the foundation to new molding. Our aim was to create a unique space that would be as enjoyable as the rest of this home. We utilized the odd space under the stairs by incorporating a wet bar. We installed TV screen with surround sound system, that makes you feel like you are part of the action and cozy fireplace to cuddle up while enjoying a movie.

Time had stood still at this 1970s ranch in Armonk when the owners invited us to collaborate with them to transform it into a modern, light-filled home for their young family. The budget was lean, so economy was a primary consideration for every design decision. The challenge was to identify the modest home’s virtues – vaulted ceilings and a lovely backyard – and accentuate them by strategically optimizing available funds.
We were tasked with rectifying a dysfunctional interior stair, connecting to the outdoors with new large windows, and updating the exterior. We focused our attention on a finite set of architectural moves which would have the biggest impact and improve our clients’ daily experience of the home. Detailing was kept simple, using common grade materials and standard components. All exterior walls were revamped with new windows and siding. Although these materials were not particularly costly, thoughtful layout of boards, battens, and openings produced a cohesive, rigorous composition at each facade.
Since the budget would not cover the homeowners’ complete wish list, some items were bracketed for subsequent phases. The challenge was to establish a framework that would allow future work – including a new roof and kitchen renovation – to proceed smoothly.
The homeowners, both scientists, were enthusiastic collaborators, contributing their outstanding design sensibilities to selection of fixtures and finishes. Construction ended just in time for the arrival of their baby – and with that, the transformation of their family home was complete.

Renovating the worn master bath of this 1950’s contemporary ranch was a challenge, but the Renovisions team took the task in stride. The biggest design challenge was enlarging the bathroom while also creating a usable and functional sitting area adjacent to their master bedroom. A few of the design highlights included; the pocket door which created an unencumbered space in the bath, a larger sized shower with no door and a lineal drain with curbless shower entry, larger format porcelain tiles, a shower niche, heated floors with a programmable thermostat, and a one piece concealed trap skirted toilet. Clipping the corner wall upon entering the sitting room softened the shape of the room and ensured comfortable walking space through the hallway into the master bedroom.
The homeowners particularly love the customizations of the stylish designed vanity which included ample space to store bath supplies in the full extension drawers and a bottom shelf for towels. The custom Benjamin Moore dark blue/grey colored cabinetry and framed mirror looks stunning with the Silestone’s ‘Pulsar’ quartz countertop and shelf pieces. They also loved the gray-blue muted marble tones of the 12”x24” shower wall field tile and chose a bright mosaic-look tile for the rear wall of the shower niche. Replacing the older windows provided more natural light into both the bathroom and sitting room spaces. With spa-worthy, on-trend, creative uses of space, this ‘Renovision’ was enjoyed and appreciated by these homeowners!

The owners had recently purchased this house with the desire to totally renovate the interior and exterior. Great location and views were very attractive. Our task was to make it fully functional, beautiful and fun. Parking and impervious space were two of our biggest challenges. Driveway paving was re-designed using both permeable paving stones and ribbon layouts to allow for on-site drainage and a warm look. The main outdoor living room was off the back of the house with a Bluestone terrace using Brownstone inlay to create separate spaces. The terrace walls were finished with the same stone used on the house with a clean Stainless Steel railing system, for great visibility. A large kitchen was built for entertaining with plenty of counter space. The terrace overlooks a wonderful pond with just the right fountain. The plantings were designed to bring color, texture, fragrance and screening in just the right combinations. LED landscape lighting and magnificent Longshadow planters completed the gardens with charm and elegance.

Cluttered, dark, and chilly basements can be daunting spaces for remodeling. They tend to get filled with every old and unwanted item in the house from worn out furniture to childhood memorabilia .This basement was a really challenging task and we succeed to create really cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere—not like a basement at all. The work involved was extensive, from the foundation to new molding. Our aim was to create a unique space that would be as enjoyable as the rest of this home. We utilized the odd space under the stairs by incorporating a wet bar. We installed TV screen with surround sound system, that makes you feel like you are part of the action and cozy fireplace to cuddle up while enjoying a movie.

Renovating the worn master bath of this 1950’s contemporary ranch was a challenge, but the Renovisions team took the task in stride. The biggest design challenge was enlarging the bathroom while also creating a usable and functional sitting area adjacent to their master bedroom. A few of the design highlights included; the pocket door which created an unencumbered space in the bath, a larger sized shower with no door and a lineal drain with curbless shower entry, larger format porcelain tiles, a shower niche, heated floors with a programmable thermostat, and a one piece concealed trap skirted toilet. Clipping the corner wall upon entering the sitting room softened the shape of the room and ensured comfortable walking space through the hallway into the master bedroom.
The homeowners particularly love the customizations of the stylish designed vanity which included ample space to store bath supplies in the full extension drawers and a bottom shelf for towels. The custom Benjamin Moore dark blue/grey colored cabinetry and framed mirror looks stunning with the Silestone’s ‘Pulsar’ quartz countertop and shelf pieces. They also loved the gray-blue muted marble tones of the 12”x24” shower wall field tile and chose a bright mosaic-look tile for the rear wall of the shower niche. Replacing the older windows provided more natural light into both the bathroom and sitting room spaces. With spa-worthy, on-trend, creative uses of space, this ‘Renovision’ was enjoyed and appreciated by these homeowners!

Renovating the worn master bath of this 1950’s contemporary ranch was a challenge, but the Renovisions team took the task in stride. The biggest design challenge was enlarging the bathroom while also creating a usable and functional sitting area adjacent to their master bedroom. A few of the design highlights included; the pocket door which created an unencumbered space in the bath, a larger sized shower with no door and a lineal drain with curbless shower entry, larger format porcelain tiles, a shower niche, heated floors with a programmable thermostat, and a one piece concealed trap skirted toilet. Clipping the corner wall upon entering the sitting room softened the shape of the room and ensured comfortable walking space through the hallway into the master bedroom.
The homeowners particularly love the customizations of the stylish designed vanity which included ample space to store bath supplies in the full extension drawers and a bottom shelf for towels. The custom Benjamin Moore dark blue/grey colored cabinetry and framed mirror looks stunning with the Silestone’s ‘Pulsar’ quartz countertop and shelf pieces. They also loved the gray-blue muted marble tones of the 12”x24” shower wall field tile and chose a bright mosaic-look tile for the rear wall of the shower niche. Replacing the older windows provided more natural light into both the bathroom and sitting room spaces. With spa-worthy, on-trend, creative uses of space, this ‘Renovision’ was enjoyed and appreciated by these homeowners!

Cluttered, dark, and chilly basements can be daunting spaces for remodeling. They tend to get filled with every old and unwanted item in the house from worn out furniture to childhood memorabilia .This basement was a really challenging task and we succeed to create really cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere—not like a basement at all. The work involved was extensive, from the foundation to new molding. Our aim was to create a unique space that would be as enjoyable as the rest of this home. We utilized the odd space under the stairs by incorporating a wet bar. We installed TV screen with surround sound system, that makes you feel like you are part of the action and cozy fireplace to cuddle up while enjoying a movie.

Renovating the worn master bath of this 1950’s contemporary ranch was a challenge, but the Renovisions team took the task in stride. The biggest design challenge was enlarging the bathroom while also creating a usable and functional sitting area adjacent to their master bedroom. A few of the design highlights included; the pocket door which created an unencumbered space in the bath, a larger sized shower with no door and a lineal drain with curbless shower entry, larger format porcelain tiles, a shower niche, heated floors with a programmable thermostat, and a one piece concealed trap skirted toilet. Clipping the corner wall upon entering the sitting room softened the shape of the room and ensured comfortable walking space through the hallway into the master bedroom.
The homeowners particularly love the customizations of the stylish designed vanity which included ample space to store bath supplies in the full extension drawers and a bottom shelf for towels. The custom Benjamin Moore dark blue/grey colored cabinetry and framed mirror looks stunning with the Silestone’s ‘Pulsar’ quartz countertop and shelf pieces. They also loved the gray-blue muted marble tones of the 12”x24” shower wall field tile and chose a bright mosaic-look tile for the rear wall of the shower niche. Replacing the older windows provided more natural light into both the bathroom and sitting room spaces. With spa-worthy, on-trend, creative uses of space, this ‘Renovision’ was enjoyed and appreciated by these homeowners!
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