The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower. KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs. On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead. These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people. Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements. Photos by Katie Hutchison

The Heirloom Hardwood Collection features true North American wood species from the Appalachian region. Heirloom is prized for its characteristics such as its quality and unique smooth graining. The planks are handcrafted and finished in a warm array of natural colors. These boards are reminiscent of the historic hardwoods of old European manors featuring the look of subtly aged timber. Hallmarks authentic 4mm sawn-cut style coupled with a medium sculpted texture that is 100% hand applied, provides a truly classic, transitional design. These floors were purchased through Masters Flooring located in Keller, TX. To learn more about Heirloom please visit: https://hallmarkfloors.com/hallmark-hardwoods/heirloom-hardwood-floors/

Normally tenons are hidden in mortises, but when the tenon passes entirely through the piece it is joining, it is called a through tenon. Through tenons are more time-consuming to cut, and are one of the characteristics of Arts & Crafts and Mission style furniture. We like to think of through tenons as "visible joinery" and a demonstration of the craftsperson's skill. © Carolina Timberworks

Unmatched sophistication on Castle Point Terrace with world class New York City and Hudson River views. The innovative design of this unique home incorporates mid-century design characteristics for the 21st century; harmonious indoor/outdoor flow, expert use of organic materials & smart, elegant built-in cabinetry. Designed & built by award-winning Hoboken architect, John Nastasi, 907 Castle Point is in a class of its own. The sun-filled kitchen features a large Calacatta marble island with Wolf, SubZero and Viking appliances, built-in Mahogany banquette and distinctive pine ceilings. Completing the parlor floor is the formal living room, family room with built in entertainment center and convenient powder room. The rear yard, an extension of the living space, features an Ipé deck with glass railings, flamed limestone patio, pristine lawn, irrigated all season garden and a unique stainless steel plunge pool.

The subjects of the relief carvings include a butterfly, snail, bee, frog, turtle, heron, starfish, dolphin, squid, fish, octopus, seahorse, crab, and jellyfish. Each tile captures the distinct characteristics of the animal with impressive detail and a slightly raised texture, creating a visually engaging and three-dimensional effect.

When only one or two people can reasonably be in the kitchen at a given time in a household that is full of people, it’s time to think about possibilities for creating a space where everyone has a spot to fit in. The kitchen in this 1920s Tudor home was dark, constrained, and cut off from the rest of the house. These aspects made for limited functionality when entertaining guests. The goal of this renovation, designed by Kasa Architecture and K&L Interiors, sought to eliminate those characteristics while keeping in the period of the home. One of the first things completed was to widen the opening which connects the dining room and kitchen. This created more space for the movement of people during a gathering and brightened up both rooms. The fixtures, hardware, and wallpaper were thoughtfully chosen by K&L Interiors to unite the spaces in a style reminiscent of the 1920s. The crown molding throughout the kitchen and the entryway was custom made to match the original. Next, an extended island was added to the kitchen to provide versatile counter space for entertaining as well as a casual seating area. The island was designed to accommodate a beverage fridge at one end which in turn saves room in the main refrigerator for other things. Additionally, the doorway at the back of the kitchen was widened and new French doors were installed. This enhanced the kitchen by adding light and easier access to the back deck. In order to widen the back door, the original exterior brick had to be removed. To keep the house looking true to its original appearance, the brick had to be matched and replaced once the doors were installed. In a small kitchen maximizing space is essential. The design of this renovation accomplished this by re-purposing an existing coat closet. One of the walls in the closet was extended into the entryway of the home and then that space was turned into a walk-in pantry. Other ways storage was generated and counter space maximized was to put a knife block and coffee station enclosed behind cabinet doors. The end result of this renovation is a bright and open space defined by the period and style of the 1920s with added functionality and practicality of modern times which encompasses casual and formal gatherings.

This signature design is a masterpiece of simplicity. The clean lines and effortless minimalism emanate a panache that is characteristic of the stylish and swanky Malibu lifestyle. The bravura of the Malibu is the essence of chic.

This 4,800 square-foot guesthouse is a three-story residence consisting of a main-level master suite, upper-level guest suite, and a large bunkroom. The exterior finishes were selected for their durability and low-maintenance characteristics, as well as to provide a unique, complementary element to the site. Locally quarried granite and a sleek slate roof have been united with cement fiberboard shingles, board-and-batten siding, and rustic brackets along the eaves. The public spaces are located on the north side of the site in order to communicate with the public spaces of a future main house. With interior details picking up on the picturesque cottage style of architecture, this space becomes ideal for both large and small gatherings. Through a similar material dialogue, an exceptional boathouse is formed along the water’s edge, extending the outdoor recreational space to encompass the lake. Photographer: MTA

Collection: Glass Mosaic Tiles Material: Glass Color: Yellow Surface Finish: Glossy, easy for cleaning. Shape: Strip Sheet Size: 300mmx300mm Chip Size: 15x98mm ,23x98mm ,30x98mm ,15x174mm ,23x174mm ,30x174mm Thickness: 8mm Application: Glass mosaic tiles are impervious to the elements, thus it is great for both interior and exterior use so moisture is not an issue. Glass mosaic tiles are great on floors and walls and have been most popular in bathrooms, spas, kitchen backsplash, wall facades and pools as well as a variety of other applications. Characteristics: The glass mosaic tile has a zero water absorption rate, and this tile exceeds ANSI standards for water absorption for mosaic tile. It is strong, durable, contamination free, and only the best quality tiles are selected as our tiles are inspected for blemishes before shipment.

This signature design is a masterpiece of simplicity. The clean lines and effortless minimalism emanate a panache that is characteristic of the stylish and swanky Malibu lifestyle. The bravura of the Malibu is the essence of chic.

Hallmark Floors Ventura Seaside. The Ventura Hardwood Floors Collection with our NuOil Finish from Hallmark Hardwoods is finished with NuOil® which employs a revolutionary new technology. The finish has unique performance characteristics and durability that make it a great choice for someone who wants the visual character that only oil can provide. Oil finishes have been used for centuries on floors and furniture. NuOil® uses proprietary technology in the application of numerous coats of oil finish in the factory that make it the industry leader in wear-ability and stain resistance in oil finish. Due to the unique hybrid multi-coat technology of NuOil®, it is not necessary to apply an additional coat of oil at time of installation. That can be reserved for a later date when it becomes desirable to refresh and renovate the floor. Simply Better…Discover Why. www.hallmarkfloors.com

Our client’s charming cottage was no longer meeting the needs of their family. We needed to give them more space but not lose the quaint characteristics that make this little historic home so unique. So we didn’t go up, and we didn’t go wide, instead we took this master suite addition straight out into the backyard and maintained 100% of the original historic façade. Master Suite This master suite is truly a private retreat. We were able to create a variety of zones in this suite to allow room for a good night’s sleep, reading by a roaring fire, or catching up on correspondence. The fireplace became the real focal point in this suite. Wrapped in herringbone whitewashed wood planks and accented with a dark stone hearth and wood mantle, we can’t take our eyes off this beauty. With its own private deck and access to the backyard, there is really no reason to ever leave this little sanctuary. Master Bathroom The master bathroom meets all the homeowner’s modern needs but has plenty of cozy accents that make it feel right at home in the rest of the space. A natural wood vanity with a mixture of brass and bronze metals gives us the right amount of warmth, and contrasts beautifully with the off-white floor tile and its vintage hex shape. Now the shower is where we had a little fun, we introduced the soft matte blue/green tile with satin brass accents, and solid quartz floor (do you see those veins?!). And the commode room is where we had a lot fun, the leopard print wallpaper gives us all lux vibes (rawr!) and pairs just perfectly with the hex floor tile and vintage door hardware. Hall Bathroom We wanted the hall bathroom to drip with vintage charm as well but opted to play with a simpler color palette in this space. We utilized black and white tile with fun patterns (like the little boarder on the floor) and kept this room feeling crisp and bright.

The Ventura Hardwood Floors Collection with our NuOil Finish from Hallmark Hardwoods is finished with NuOil® which employs a revolutionary new technology. The finish has unique performance characteristics and durability that make it a great choice for someone who wants the visual character that only oil can provide. Oil finishes have been used for centuries on floors and furniture. NuOil® uses proprietary technology in the application of numerous coats of oil finish in the factory that make it the industry leader in wear-ability and stain resistance in oil finish. Due to the unique hybrid multi-coat technology of NuOil®, it is not necessary to apply an additional coat of oil at time of installation. That can be reserved for a later date when it becomes desirable to refresh and renovate the floor. Simply Better…Discover Why. http://hallmarkfloors.com/

This majestic home was brought back to life with a full gut and remodel. We captured the original characteristics while integrating the modern features. The client wanted to create a space where family and friends can gather and partake in what this wonderful old home has to offer.

Hallmark Floors Hacienda Hickory Tea Leaf Hacienda Hardwood Collection features true North American Species from the Appalachian region, prized for it’s superior quality and smooth tight “graining” characteristics. These planks feature a precision sanded smooth face with small pillow beveled edges and are finished in a warm array of natural and rich colors. The smooth, handcrafted, North American hardwoods of the Hacienda collection evoke an aged look and distinctive style with an American flair. This long length, plain sawn, hardwood material with solid hardwoods features a 4mm. solid wear surface with the finest plywood available. This gives Hacienda all of the features of a solid timber floor but with much more stability. These features make Hacienda a floor that can last a lifetime. The warm array of natural and richly stained colors is protected with UV cured aluminum oxide coatings. The result is a beautifully crafted and styled, smooth yet subtly aged, durable floor that can be cherished in any home for years to come. Simply Better…Discover Why.

Lots of cottage dwellers enjoy time spent with family and friends in their vacation home year-round, surrounded by the vibrant colours of autumn and the peaceful environment characteristic of the Muskoka region. ⠀ ⠀ This unique cottage kitchen is full of character and ready to host a large family gathering at any time of the year. It tastefully weaves together heavy, dramatic, industrial design, with warm, welcoming farmhouse ambience. For example, admire the way the dramatic black countertops and distressed black cabinetry are beautifully off-set by a large, white farmhouse sink, and tasteful accent open shelving on one wall. Note the many windows letting in natural light, and the airy feeling given off by the decorative "X" beams on the end of the island overlapping with a spacious breakfast bar. And who isn't charmed by the crate-style storage of staples like onions and potatoes?⠀

Due to the energy-saving and environmentally friendly characteristics of LED downlights, their application in home lighting is receiving increasing attention. They have become essential lighting fixtures in modern interior decoration, and are widely recognized and favored by more and more people.

Collection: Glass Mosaic Tiles Material: Glass Color: Black Surface Finish: Glossy, easy for cleaning. Shape: Square Sheet Size: 300mmx300mm Chip Size: 23mmx23mm Thickness: 8mm Application: Glass mosaic tiles are impervious to the elements, thus it is great for both interior and exterior use so moisture is not an issue. Glass mosaic tiles are great on floors and walls and have been most popular in bathrooms, spas, kitchen backsplash, wall facades and pools as well as a variety of other applications. Characteristics: The glass mosaic tile has a zero water absorption rate, and this tile exceeds ANSI standards for water absorption for mosaic tile. It is strong, durable, contamination free, and only the best quality tiles are selected as our tiles are inspected for blemishes before shipment.

This garden project began with the demolition of an existing pool and decks cantilevered over a hillside. The garden was originally a Japanese-themed garden retreat and free-form shaped pool. While the client wanted to update and replace many elements, they sought to keep the free-form characteristics of the existing design and repurpose existing materials. BK Landscape Design created a new garden with revetment walls and steps to a succulent garden with salvaged boulders from the pool and pool coping. We built a colored concrete path to access a new wood trellis constructed on the center-line view from the master bedroom. A combination of Bay friendly, native and evergreen plantings were chosen for the planting palette. The overhaul of the yard included low-voltage lighting and minimal drainage. A new wood deck replaced the existing one at the entrance as well as a deck off of the master bedroom that was also constructed from repurposed materials. The style mimics the architectural detail of the mansard roof and simple horizontal wood siding of the house. After removing a juniper (as required by the San Rafael Fire Department within the Wildland-Urban interface) we designed and developed a full front-yard planting plan. All plants are Bay-Friendly, native, and irrigated with a more efficient in-line drip irrigation system to minimize water use. Low-voltage lighting and minimal drainage were also part of the overhaul of the front yard redesign.