Built in 1910, this charming DC row house is located in the historic Bloomingdale neighborhood. At some point, the home had been converted into two separate apartments and, in doing so, the previous owners had removed the connecting stairs and made some other problematic design decisions. When our clients purchased the home in 2017, it required a full gut renovation in order to bring it up to code and return it to a single family residence. One of the initial challenges was to address the excessive bulkheads, soffits and ceiling height changes that made the rooms feel off kilter. Reconfiguring the HVAC system and ductwork allowed us to minimize bulkheads and raise the ceilings which, in turn made the spaces feel larger and more open. In the kitchen, the extra height meant we could install taller upper cabinets which provided much needed storage. By expanding the kitchen we were able to reconfigure the layout and create additional prep space and a more functional location for the range.

Great room with entertainment area, pool table, gaming area, walk up wet bar, (1) stained and lacquered, recessed paneled, cherry column constructed around monopole in between game table and entertainment; Entertainment area to include gas fireplace with full height natural stone surround and continuous hearth extending below custom entertainment stained and lacquered built in and under stair closet; (2) dedicated trey ceilings with painted crown molding and rope lighting each for pool table and TV area; ¾ bathroom with linen closet; Study/Bedroom with double glass door entry and closet; Unfinished storage/mechanical room; -Removal of existing main level basement stairway door and construction of new drywall wrapped stair entryway with arched, lighted, drywall wrapped display niche at landing; new code compliant deeper projection window well installed with dirt excavation and removal outside of study/bedroom egress window; Photo: Andrew J Hathaway, Brothers Construction

Simon Devitt
Trendy staircase photo in Auckland

Tuscany inspiration is blooming in this Novi, MI finished basement! The span of the basement is very much open in the layout. We love how the posts are incorporated into a bar top behind the couch. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a glass of red wine during a premiere without the fear of spilling on your couch! The details lay in the built in cabinets, archways, and gorgeous wrought iron doors who open to a custom wine cabinet. By Majestic Home Solutions, LLC. Project Cost: $75,001 - $100,000 Country: United States Zip Code: 48374

Built in 1910, this charming DC row house is located in the historic Bloomingdale neighborhood. At some point, the home had been converted into two separate apartments and, in doing so, the previous owners had removed the connecting stairs and made some other problematic design decisions. When our clients purchased the home in 2017, it required a full gut renovation in order to bring it up to code and return it to a single family residence. One of the initial challenges was to address the excessive bulkheads, soffits and ceiling height changes that made the rooms feel off kilter. Reconfiguring the HVAC system and ductwork allowed us to minimize bulkheads and raise the ceilings which, in turn made the spaces feel larger and more open. In the kitchen, the extra height meant we could install taller upper cabinets which provided much needed storage. By expanding the kitchen we were able to reconfigure the layout and create additional prep space and a more functional location for the range.

Inspiration for a transitional porch remodel in Richmond

Looking at living room from old kitchen location and at new stair circulation to lower level and all new lighting throughout. This was a major remodel to an existing 1970 building. It was approximately 2300 sq. ft. but it was dated in style and function. The access was by a wood stair up to the street, with no garage and tight small rooms. The remodel and addition created a two car garage with storage and a dramatic entry with grand stair descending down to the existing living room area. Spaces where moved and changed to create a open plan living environment with a new kitchen, master suite, guest suite, and remodeling and adding to the lower level bedrooms with new baths on suite. The mechanical system was replaced and air conditioning was added as well as air treatment.

Built in 1910, this charming DC row house is located in the historic Bloomingdale neighborhood. At some point, the home had been converted into two separate apartments and, in doing so, the previous owners had removed the connecting stairs and made some other problematic design decisions. When our clients purchased the home in 2017, it required a full gut renovation in order to bring it up to code and return it to a single family residence. One of the initial challenges was to address the excessive bulkheads, soffits and ceiling height changes that made the rooms feel off kilter. Reconfiguring the HVAC system and ductwork allowed us to minimize bulkheads and raise the ceilings which, in turn made the spaces feel larger and more open. In the kitchen, the extra height meant we could install taller upper cabinets which provided much needed storage. By expanding the kitchen we were able to reconfigure the layout and create additional prep space and a more functional location for the range.

We're in the shop here today showing you an alternating-tread staircase that's' going to a job-site in Napa tomorrow. I'm standing on the landing which is at exactly mid-floor level. It's going into one one these 100-year-old houses with a steep roof and lots of attic space. The homeowner called me last month saying he wants to access this large attic area with something better than a ladder. He didn't have room for a conventional stair but this alternating-tread space-saving stair was a perfect fit. It's all Red Oak which matches the hardwood floors throughout the house. Once these are installed at the site we'll put a handrail on top of the stringers on the open side. I'll tell you a little about the alternating-tread staircases. It's built in a way that is nearly as easy to climb as a conventional stair. When we walk up a convectional stairway we normally use half of the stair tread at a time, placing one foot on the right half and the next foot on the left half. The idea of an alternating-tread stair is make half of each tread wide enough for your foot and then alternate the wide end of these paddle-shape treads from left to right. You still have your 10 inch minimum tread depth plus a 1 inch nosing projection. This give you 11" of support for each foot, just like a conventional stair. We normally make the risers a max of 7-3/4", but code allows us to go as high as 9 inches. This one is 7-3/4" which is very comfortable. We installed a metal bar across the middle of each open-riser to limit the open space to less than a 4 inch gap. Anyway, I just wanted to give you a quick shot of this. Tomorrow morning we get to go to the job-site and install this. I'd can't wait to see the look on the customer's face when we have this installed. I'll let him do the bragging :-) Last but not least, I'd like to give glory to God and special recognition to a Jewish carpenter named Jesus. I don't know for sure if He built stairways as a carpenter, but I am happy to say that He is my LORD and I want to live my whole life for Him. God bless you! And please contact me if you want any type of custom stairs. Clyde 520-895-2060 or 916-991-9700

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

At Atlanta Porch & Patio we are dedicated to building beautiful custom porches, decks, and outdoor living spaces throughout the metro Atlanta area. Our mission is to turn our clients’ ideas, dreams, and visions into personalized, tangible outcomes. Clients of Atlanta Porch & Patio rest easy knowing each step of their project is performed to the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and dependability. Our team of builders and craftsmen are licensed, insured, and always up to date on trends, products, designs, and building codes. We are constantly educating ourselves in order to provide our clients the best services at the best prices. We deliver the ultimate professional experience with every step of our projects. After setting up a consultation through our website or by calling the office, we will meet with you in your home to discuss all of your ideas and concerns. After our initial meeting and site consultation, we will compile a detailed design plan and quote complete with renderings and a full listing of the materials to be used. Upon your approval, we will then draw up the necessary paperwork and decide on a project start date. From demo to cleanup, we strive to deliver your ultimate relaxation destination on time and on budget.

Elegant exterior home photo in Chicago

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

This custom outdoor living project features a beautifully designed composite deck built with premium TimberTech decking in Coastline and Dark Hickory, creating a striking two-tone finish with clean picture-framed detailing. The layout includes a spacious main deck and a carefully designed switchback staircase to maximize yard access while maintaining comfortable head clearance beneath the structure. The deck surface showcases Coastline field boards bordered and accented with Dark Hickory, including a centered divider that allows for symmetrical 16' board runs. Picture-framed stairs continue the refined look, combining Dark Hickory frames with Coastline interior boards for a cohesive design. A modern cable railing system with black fascia-mounted posts provides safety without obstructing the view, while square picket railings along the stairs ensure durability and code compliance. The sleek black rail system pairs perfectly with the contemporary composite decking tones. Below the deck, an undercover ceiling system with white panels and integrated drainage creates a dry, usable space beneath the structure, expanding the functional outdoor living area. Pre-primed wood framing and clean gutter integration help direct water to a dedicated drain system. The project also includes a switchback stair landing and carefully planned structural details to ensure long-term performance and comfort. Designed for both style and durability, this custom deck provides a low-maintenance outdoor space perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors year-round.

This residence was a complete gut renovation of a 4-story row house in Park Slope, and included a new rear extension and penthouse addition. The owners wished to create a warm, family home using a modern language that would act as a clean canvas to feature rich textiles and items from their world travels. As with most Brooklyn row houses, the existing house suffered from a lack of natural light and connection to exterior spaces, an issue that Principal Brendan Coburn is acutely aware of from his experience re-imagining historic structures in the New York area. The resulting architecture is designed around moments featuring natural light and views to the exterior, of both the private garden and the sky, throughout the house, and a stripped-down language of detailing and finishes allows for the concept of the modern-natural to shine. Upon entering the home, the kitchen and dining space draw you in with views beyond through the large glazed opening at the rear of the house. An extension was built to allow for a large sunken living room that provides a family gathering space connected to the kitchen and dining room, but remains distinctly separate, with a strong visual connection to the rear garden. The open sculptural stair tower was designed to function like that of a traditional row house stair, but with a smaller footprint. By extending it up past the original roof level into the new penthouse, the stair becomes an atmospheric shaft for the spaces surrounding the core. All types of weather – sunshine, rain, lightning, can be sensed throughout the home through this unifying vertical environment. The stair space also strives to foster family communication, making open living spaces visible between floors. At the upper-most level, a free-form bench sits suspended over the stair, just by the new roof deck, which provides at-ease entertaining. Oak was used throughout the home as a unifying material element. As one travels upwards within the house, the oak finishes are bleached to further degrees as a nod to how light enters the home. The owners worked with CWB to add their own personality to the project. The meter of a white oak and blackened steel stair screen was designed by the family to read “I love you” in Morse Code, and tile was selected throughout to reference places that hold special significance to the family. To support the owners’ comfort, the architectural design engages passive house technologies to reduce energy use, while increasing air quality within the home – a strategy which aims to respect the environment while providing a refuge from the harsh elements of urban living. This project was published by Wendy Goodman as her Space of the Week, part of New York Magazine’s Design Hunting on The Cut. Photography by Kevin Kunstadt