This two-story chalet stands out with its large glass façade and exposed wooden beams. The second floor is set back from the ground floor, minimizing its visual impact from the lake. The second floor houses the master bedroom, which offers stunning views of the lake while ensuring privacy thanks to its recessed design. The chalet is primarily constructed from stone and wood, materials that blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest. The glass façade allows an abundance of natural light to enter, creating a fluid connection between the interior and the natural surroundings. The open and spacious ground floor invites relaxation and socializing, while the upper floor provides a peaceful and intimate retreat. The exposed wooden beams add a rustic and warm touch to the overall design, enhancing the natural charm of the chalet. The combination of stone and wood perfectly complements the forest setting, creating a harmonious and serene living space. This chalet is a sanctuary where modernity and nature coexist in perfect symbiosis, offering an ideal refuge for those seeking to recharge in the heart of nature.

This project was driven by a commitment to sustainability and repurposing existing materials, seamlessly blending the old with the new while minimizing waste. The goal was to transform the backyard into a lush garden oasis with a low-water and low-maintenance design. Despite challenges posed by the property's proximity to the golf course and specific guidelines, a harmonious integration of desert plant life and low-water lush plants was achieved. Reusing existing materials and replacing natural grass with synthetic turf minimized water usage, while strategic plant placement utilized run-off water for sustainable irrigation. Navigating the constraints imposed by the Country Club, the project created a cohesive outdoor space and repurposed cobblestones to bridge the gap between the golf course and the rear of the property. This project achieved a balance between ecological consciousness and aesthetic beauty, allowing the garden oasis to coexist harmoniously with the golf course backdrop, providing the clients with a serene and vibrant landscape that aligns with their vision and respects the natural resources of the community.

This two-story chalet stands out with its large glass façade and exposed wooden beams. The second floor is set back from the ground floor, minimizing its visual impact from the lake. The second floor houses the master bedroom, which offers stunning views of the lake while ensuring privacy thanks to its recessed design. The chalet is primarily constructed from stone and wood, materials that blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest. The glass façade allows an abundance of natural light to enter, creating a fluid connection between the interior and the natural surroundings. The open and spacious ground floor invites relaxation and socializing, while the upper floor provides a peaceful and intimate retreat. The exposed wooden beams add a rustic and warm touch to the overall design, enhancing the natural charm of the chalet. The combination of stone and wood perfectly complements the forest setting, creating a harmonious and serene living space. This chalet is a sanctuary where modernity and nature coexist in perfect symbiosis, offering an ideal refuge for those seeking to recharge in the heart of nature.

Typical of bungalows and city lots, the footprint of this home was narrow with living spaces in front, bedrooms in back and kitchen centrally located. However, unlike most bungalows, the hall running from front to back have been closed off to, presumably, accommodate a walk-in pantry. Couple that with the fact that this circa 1925 bungalow had seen a lot of living – read boisterous children and remodeling trends like z-brick, soffits, and fluorescent overhead lighting – the kitchen was due for a major overhaul. Truly the hub of this house, the modest 11’ x 12’ kitchen was most in need of additional countertop space, convenient garbage/recycle bin, counter-depth refrigerator, storage aids, informal dining for two, and sound-proofing to enable this musically adept family to coexist despite varied schedules. Gone are the wall soffits, boxy overhead lighting, six-foot baseboard heat unit, extra deep refrigerator, refurbished cabinets, laminate countertops, z-brick wall covering, and makeshift door swags. Enter rich mahogany cabinets, roll and pull-out storage units, endcap spice storage, gorgeous granite tops, marble backsplash, LED lighting, acoustic insulation and solid-wood doors. Under the guise of such a handsome room, provisions such as a period style sink allow for more efficient use of corners with pull-out half-moon trays for storage. Redirecting the baseboard heat to a compact, toekick unit, means more cabinet and counter space – perfect for a baking and/or entertaining area removed from the basic work triangle. The eating area, also, doubles as a work station with drawers for office supplies and dedicated outlet for cable tv. Functional yet beautiful, this kitchen is at the ready as its owners look forward to their golden years. Designed by: The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn Photography by: Dawn Jackman For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com URL http://www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This thoughtfully designed home cultivates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfectly suited for relaxed family living. Its distinctive L-shaped layout defines the architectural presence, naturally centering around the pool area—a lively hub for both everyday moments and entertaining guests. Nestled back from the street and sheltered beneath the expansive canopy of majestic live oak trees, the entry welcomes you with a bold arrangement of steel-framed windows, flooding the interiors with soft natural light and setting an open, airy tone from the moment you arrive. ​The exterior’s carefully curated palette features the natural texture and timeless beauty of cut limestone, paired with warm wood, sleek steel, and expansive glass elements. This combination creates a harmonious balance between the classic appeal of mid-century homes and contemporary elegance. Together, these materials offer both visual interest and tactile warmth, making the home feel grounded in its environment while embracing a modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Every detail—from the interplay of materials to the thoughtful flow of spaces—has been crafted to balance comfort with style, resulting in a sanctuary where family life and entertaining coexist effortlessly.

This thoughtfully designed home cultivates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfectly suited for relaxed family living. Its distinctive L-shaped layout defines the architectural presence, naturally centering around the pool area—a lively hub for both everyday moments and entertaining guests. Nestled back from the street and sheltered beneath the expansive canopy of majestic live oak trees, the entry welcomes you with a bold arrangement of steel-framed windows, flooding the interiors with soft natural light and setting an open, airy tone from the moment you arrive. ​The exterior’s carefully curated palette features the natural texture and timeless beauty of cut limestone, paired with warm wood, sleek steel, and expansive glass elements. This combination creates a harmonious balance between the classic appeal of mid-century homes and contemporary elegance. Together, these materials offer both visual interest and tactile warmth, making the home feel grounded in its environment while embracing a modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Every detail—from the interplay of materials to the thoughtful flow of spaces—has been crafted to balance comfort with style, resulting in a sanctuary where family life and entertaining coexist effortlessly.

This project was driven by a commitment to sustainability and repurposing existing materials, seamlessly blending the old with the new while minimizing waste. The goal was to transform the backyard into a lush garden oasis with a low-water and low-maintenance design. Despite challenges posed by the property's proximity to the golf course and specific guidelines, a harmonious integration of desert plant life and low-water lush plants was achieved. Reusing existing materials and replacing natural grass with synthetic turf minimized water usage, while strategic plant placement utilized run-off water for sustainable irrigation. Navigating the constraints imposed by the Country Club, the project created a cohesive outdoor space and repurposed cobblestones to bridge the gap between the golf course and the rear of the property. This project achieved a balance between ecological consciousness and aesthetic beauty, allowing the garden oasis to coexist harmoniously with the golf course backdrop, providing the clients with a serene and vibrant landscape that aligns with their vision and respects the natural resources of the community.

This two-story chalet stands out with its large glass façade and exposed wooden beams. The second floor is set back from the ground floor, minimizing its visual impact from the lake. The second floor houses the master bedroom, which offers stunning views of the lake while ensuring privacy thanks to its recessed design. The chalet is primarily constructed from stone and wood, materials that blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest. The glass façade allows an abundance of natural light to enter, creating a fluid connection between the interior and the natural surroundings. The open and spacious ground floor invites relaxation and socializing, while the upper floor provides a peaceful and intimate retreat. The exposed wooden beams add a rustic and warm touch to the overall design, enhancing the natural charm of the chalet. The combination of stone and wood perfectly complements the forest setting, creating a harmonious and serene living space. This chalet is a sanctuary where modernity and nature coexist in perfect symbiosis, offering an ideal refuge for those seeking to recharge in the heart of nature.

This thoughtfully designed home cultivates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfectly suited for relaxed family living. Its distinctive L-shaped layout defines the architectural presence, naturally centering around the pool area—a lively hub for both everyday moments and entertaining guests. Nestled back from the street and sheltered beneath the expansive canopy of majestic live oak trees, the entry welcomes you with a bold arrangement of steel-framed windows, flooding the interiors with soft natural light and setting an open, airy tone from the moment you arrive. ​The exterior’s carefully curated palette features the natural texture and timeless beauty of cut limestone, paired with warm wood, sleek steel, and expansive glass elements. This combination creates a harmonious balance between the classic appeal of mid-century homes and contemporary elegance. Together, these materials offer both visual interest and tactile warmth, making the home feel grounded in its environment while embracing a modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Every detail—from the interplay of materials to the thoughtful flow of spaces—has been crafted to balance comfort with style, resulting in a sanctuary where family life and entertaining coexist effortlessly.

This project was driven by a commitment to sustainability and repurposing existing materials, seamlessly blending the old with the new while minimizing waste. The goal was to transform the backyard into a lush garden oasis with a low-water and low-maintenance design. Despite challenges posed by the property's proximity to the golf course and specific guidelines, a harmonious integration of desert plant life and low-water lush plants was achieved. Reusing existing materials and replacing natural grass with synthetic turf minimized water usage, while strategic plant placement utilized run-off water for sustainable irrigation. Navigating the constraints imposed by the Country Club, the project created a cohesive outdoor space and repurposed cobblestones to bridge the gap between the golf course and the rear of the property. This project achieved a balance between ecological consciousness and aesthetic beauty, allowing the garden oasis to coexist harmoniously with the golf course backdrop, providing the clients with a serene and vibrant landscape that aligns with their vision and respects the natural resources of the community.

This thoughtfully designed home cultivates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfectly suited for relaxed family living. Its distinctive L-shaped layout defines the architectural presence, naturally centering around the pool area—a lively hub for both everyday moments and entertaining guests. Nestled back from the street and sheltered beneath the expansive canopy of majestic live oak trees, the entry welcomes you with a bold arrangement of steel-framed windows, flooding the interiors with soft natural light and setting an open, airy tone from the moment you arrive. ​The exterior’s carefully curated palette features the natural texture and timeless beauty of cut limestone, paired with warm wood, sleek steel, and expansive glass elements. This combination creates a harmonious balance between the classic appeal of mid-century homes and contemporary elegance. Together, these materials offer both visual interest and tactile warmth, making the home feel grounded in its environment while embracing a modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Every detail—from the interplay of materials to the thoughtful flow of spaces—has been crafted to balance comfort with style, resulting in a sanctuary where family life and entertaining coexist effortlessly.

This adorable kitchen in Point Loma, CA is now open to the family room, small in spaces but united with a nature-inspired color palette. The kitchen went through an extensive remodel removing walls, raised ceiling, exposing the beam and a new glass door for the back entry and now this small kitchen feel open and spacious. The cabinetry features shaker elements―clean lines, plain trim, and little ornamentation― great for transitional decor. Functional fixtures and modern appliances peacefully coexist with the mosaic marble backsplash. Hidden behind the door panels is a 30” Subzero refrigerator/freezer integrated nicely to keep the kitchen plan, clean and understated. The corner sink is recessed back adding a nice detail but even more importantly a more accessible corner access to the kitchen windows. Accessories and details added to the kitchen cabinets give this chef everything she was looking for with a spice pullout, knife block pullout and rollouts to top off the new cabinets. When space is tight it is a great option for a small family to open up the walls and add a counter where the family can dine. On the walls, neutral gray painted create a soothing atmosphere. Adjacent to the kitchen was a cramped room that functioned as a workout room and laundry room. By changing some wall space, closing in a door and removing a closet the new space has great storage and is more open and functional for a quick workout. In the family room the fireplace was re-tiled with a concrete looking porcelain tile topped off with a rustic beam mantle. Combined with new home furnishings to make the most of a small space this new family room is both functional and a great place for the couple to spend time with each other on a daily basis and to entertain guest and a new space has been created with the feel of a comfortable cozy space for all to enjoy. Contractor: CairnsCraft Remodeling Designer: Bonnie Bogley Catlin Photogtapher: Jon Upson

Outdoor shower with plants
Inspiration for a small coastal one-story beige tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile bathroom remodel in New York with raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, a one-piece toilet, blue walls and granite countertops

This adorable kitchen in Point Loma, CA is now open to the family room, small in spaces but united with a nature-inspired color palette. The kitchen went through an extensive remodel removing walls, raised ceiling, exposing the beam and a new glass door for the back entry and now this small kitchen feel open and spacious. The cabinetry features shaker elements―clean lines, plain trim, and little ornamentation― great for transitional decor. Functional fixtures and modern appliances peacefully coexist with the mosaic marble backsplash. Hidden behind the door panels is a 30” Subzero refrigerator/freezer integrated nicely to keep the kitchen plan, clean and understated. The corner sink is recessed back adding a nice detail but even more importantly a more accessible corner access to the kitchen windows. Accessories and details added to the kitchen cabinets give this chef everything she was looking for with a spice pullout, knife block pullout and rollouts to top off the new cabinets. When space is tight it is a great option for a small family to open up the walls and add a counter where the family can dine. On the walls, neutral gray painted create a soothing atmosphere. Adjacent to the kitchen was a cramped room that functioned as a workout room and laundry room. By changing some wall space, closing in a door and removing a closet the new space has great storage and is more open and functional for a quick workout. In the family room the fireplace was re-tiled with a concrete looking porcelain tile topped off with a rustic beam mantle. Combined with new home furnishings to make the most of a small space this new family room is both functional and a great place for the couple to spend time with each other on a daily basis and to entertain guest and a new space has been created with the feel of a comfortable cozy space for all to enjoy. Contractor: CairnsCraft Remodeling Designer: Bonnie Bogley Catlin Photogtapher: Jon Upson

Jane Benson
Example of a large mountain style wooden l-shaped staircase design with wooden risers

Typical of bungalows and city lots, the footprint of this home was narrow with living spaces in front, bedrooms in back and kitchen centrally located. However, unlike most bungalows, the hall running from front to back have been closed off to, presumably, accommodate a walk-in pantry. Couple that with the fact that this circa 1925 bungalow had seen a lot of living – read boisterous children and remodeling trends like z-brick, soffits, and fluorescent overhead lighting – the kitchen was due for a major overhaul. Truly the hub of this house, the modest 11’ x 12’ kitchen was most in need of additional countertop space, convenient garbage/recycle bin, counter-depth refrigerator, storage aids, informal dining for two, and sound-proofing to enable this musically adept family to coexist despite varied schedules. Gone are the wall soffits, boxy overhead lighting, six-foot baseboard heat unit, extra deep refrigerator, refurbished cabinets, laminate countertops, z-brick wall covering, and makeshift door swags. Enter rich mahogany cabinets, roll and pull-out storage units, endcap spice storage, gorgeous granite tops, marble backsplash, LED lighting, acoustic insulation and solid-wood doors. Under the guise of such a handsome room, provisions such as a period style sink allow for more efficient use of corners with pull-out half-moon trays for storage. Redirecting the baseboard heat to a compact, toekick unit, means more cabinet and counter space – perfect for a baking and/or entertaining area removed from the basic work triangle. The eating area, also, doubles as a work station with drawers for office supplies and dedicated outlet for cable tv. Functional yet beautiful, this kitchen is at the ready as its owners look forward to their golden years. Designed by: The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn Photography by: Dawn Jackman For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This full-home remodel blends modern sophistication with functional comfort, creating a space that feels inviting, elegant, and beautifully cohesive. The kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring white cabinetry, a statement range hood, and a spacious granite island that anchors the open-concept layout. Subtle herringbone tile details and sleek pendant lighting add depth and warmth, while the adjoining dining area showcases custom millwork and soft neutral tones for a perfect balance of formality and ease. A butler’s pantry connects the kitchen to the entertaining spaces, offering additional storage, a beverage station, and glass-front cabinetry for display — proving that practicality and beauty can coexist effortlessly. Downstairs, the home transforms into an entertainer’s retreat with a luxurious theater room, complete with tiered seating and custom ceiling accents. The adjoining office space provides a quiet corner for productivity without sacrificing style. Bathrooms throughout the home feature elegant tilework, quartz and granite countertops, and thoughtful layouts — from a spa-like primary suite with a soaking tub and walk-in shower to a charming Jack-and-Jill bath designed for everyday family living. Finishes are clean, layered, and timeless: soft gray cabinetry, matte black and chrome fixtures, warm wood floors, and inviting textures that bring continuity throughout the home. From the laundry room’s efficient built-ins to the family room’s stone fireplace, every space was designed to feel lived-in yet elevated — a reflection of D&G Construction’s belief that great design starts with how you want to live, and ends with how beautifully it’s built.

This luxury dressing room and custom makeup vanity brings together tropical glamour, tailored functionality, and sophisticated pattern for a distinctive boutique-inspired retreat. A vibrant palm leaf wallpaper in soft yellow, gray, and neutral tones creates an elegant botanical backdrop, while warm brass accents add a polished layer of luxury. The custom built-in vanity features crisp white cabinetry, generous countertop space, integrated storage, and streamlined brass hardware. An oversized brass-framed mirror and coordinating wall sconce provide a beautiful focal point, while a metallic upholstered vanity stool with a clear acrylic base adds a glamorous contemporary touch. Decorative floral-patterned window treatments introduce a softer complementary pattern, demonstrating how layered wallpaper and textiles can coexist beautifully within a sophisticated interior. Light stone surfaces and mosaic flooring keep the room bright and airy while allowing the botanical patterns and metallic finishes to take center stage. The result is a high-end dressing room and makeup vanity design that feels feminine, collected, and luxurious while remaining highly functional. Thoughtful details such as custom cabinetry, botanical wallpaper, brass fixtures, statement lighting, tailored window treatments, and a built-in dressing table transform an everyday getting-ready space into a personalized luxury retreat.

Photographer: Aaron Leimkuehler for Kansas City Spaces Magazine See all of the Before & After photos of this whole-home remodel here: http://www.designconnectioninc.com/portfolio/transitional-whole-home-remodel-in-overland-park-ks/