Search results for "Collaborative approach" in Home Design Ideas

We were well underway in the process of constructing a mixed-use building in Portsmouth’s downtown when suddenly, things changed.
We were approached by a couple interested in purchasing the entire site. The building’s street-level design would remain as originally planned – 2 small retail condos for let. The rest of the structure would need a quick reassessment and redesign to not affect the current construction schedule. The 2nd floor was redesigned to be one large, residential condo. The third and fourth floors would become the couple’s private quarters. They were relocating from a suburban neighborhood to the center of town, yet still hoping to maintain a sense of home for their large family with a strong connection to the outdoor space.
The third floor would serve as the home’s main living space. A formal entrance with historic charm was created through varying ceiling heights, and exposed beams. Unique transition spaces were built, leading into an open concept living, kitchen and dining area with access to a series of back decks overlooking a more private street and the park.
The fourth floor, tucked into the roof line, would house a master suite, 2 more bedrooms, laundry and additional ‘landscaped’ deck areas.
Unique, typically under-utilized areas and architectural elements were assigned creative uses to maximize the project’s flavor and objective. The elevator override cavity became a substantial storage closet on the fourth floor. The building’s firewall was extended and a decorative brick archway was added to connect the outdoor areas of the original side-by-side condos. A flat roof area, snug against the adjacent property’s blank brick wall, complete with pergola and sun shade, was designed to be a secluded, landscaped patio overlooking the back neighborhood.
This project exemplifies the quick change in direction and unexpected surprises that can come of new ideas through collaboration.
- See more at: http://sommastudios.com/project/58-state-street/#sthash.NmdjMeY6.dpuf

This hillside home in Piedmont, CA was remodeled to change the style from a 1940's rancher with eight foot ceilings and dark interiors, into a modern geometric composition with vast white interiors for casual living and generous daylighting for displaying the artist-owner's works.
In a city known for rigorous and difficult design review, an addition, two variances, and a full stylistic change were unanimously approved on the first round. All sloped roofs and attics were eliminated and replaced by a series of stacked and overlapping flat roofs. This made the house taller on the inside and shorter on the outside, which helped earn design review cooperation in the community. Windows were concentrated toward the rear yard views or moved up high on the side walls for daylight and privacy, benefitting the owners as well as the neighbors.
At the start, the owner husband was so enthusiastic and engaged in transforming his house into something modern that he presented the architect with a scaled foamcore model, rather than the usual magazine clippings and wish list. He participated in the design decisions throughout the process. The owner wife is the artist who did all the artwork in the house. She had been craving a display space with large walls and good natural light. Both of them loved the location and great views.
The project was an opportunity to transform the style of an older traditional home into a modern one, while solving numerous problems. By rebuilding the 1800 ft2 top of the 3-story home it was possible to change the style of the whole building, since the lower floors were a neutral base, and also to change the lifestyle of the owners, who wanted to move their master suite upstairs and live primarily on the top floor as empty nesters.
Going into the project, the architect knew there were multiple encroachments into the setbacks and potential privacy issues with close by neighbors. He approached this as a complex puzzle made up of architectural and political pieces which all had to fit together elegantly. It took many careful moves, small and large, to arrive at a serene and cohesive result that tied old and new together seamlessly.
The design-build contractor worked closely with the owners and handled all of the construction phase documents and design adjustments, adding ideas of their own to make the project really sing.
The project was a collaboration in three acts. The owner had a strong design concept from the start. The architect developed it into a realistic project and garnered the design approvals. Then the contractor executed brilliantly.
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In Sioux Falls, homeowners sought to establish a versatile poolside patio area, capable of maximizing the summer season's enjoyment while offering protection against winter weather and precipitation. Azenco, renowned for its expertise, collaborated with its regional dealer, Concrete Outdoor Living, to conceive a sophisticated patio design. This design incorporates an elegant pergola system equipped with an adjustable roof mechanism. This innovative feature allows for the creation of shade during the warmer months, effective rain shielding, and the capacity to withstand winter snow.
The Concrete Outdoor Living team carefully selected and incorporated robust concrete patio furniture designed to endure for an extended period, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the inclusion of a gas fire feature not only adds to the evening ambiance but also provides additional warmth in colder weather, making the space enjoyable throughout the year. This well-rounded design approach ensures that the patio serves as a delightful and adaptable outdoor living space.

Our clients came to our North Showroom in Cedar Park, TX wanting to completely renovate the outdated cabinets and countertops in their newly purchased home. The flow of the kitchen was not aligning with their new family needs, and the style did not match their modern vision. The dated kitchen left a lot of unused space, and had pain points that disturbed the flow and symmetry of the space. We developed a design to take advantage of the room height, spacious area, and natural light from the bay window nook area.
Our designer Dave met with the clients in the showroom and discovered the needs and wants to make the kitchen remodel a success. After understanding the client’s vision and requirements, they begun the collaboration on their kitchen design. During this phase we concluded we could achieve the kitchen design with in-stock cabinets from Kitchen Cabinet Distributors (KCD), a national recognized in-stock cabinet provider. We could have chosen a custom kitchen cabinetry line, however KCD’s offerings were the perfect fit for the design and allowed for an opportunity to save some of the budget for full quartz backsplash vs. tile. Our designers help you navigate the different lines we carry and are thoughtful to not steer you to more than you need to succeed. The first order of business was to change the orientation of the island, and move its position to frame the new galley arrangement. This would allow for better egress around the island and prevent tight spaces for a busy new kitchen.
Secondly, now was the time to take advantage of the room height and install new stacked wall cabinets with clear glass panels on the top row. This made the kitchen renovation feel more grand, bright, and inviting. The glass provided opportunity to tie in the lighting scheme and lend more warmth to the design. Coupled with the toe kick and under cabinet lights in the base cabinets, the kitchen invites you in. Dave also took full advantage of the kitchen layout by using upper cabinets and no open shelving.
We also wanted to find a new home for the built-in microwave as a stainless hood was now going to frame the cooktop / oven combo. We modified the cabinet in the island to trim in a microwave, at the same time keeping it out of view from the living area. Building on this approach, we also took the trash bin out of the kitchen space and provided a dedicated double trash bin cabinet. Aesthetics were very important in this design.

In the heart of Delray Beach, FL, lies a cabinetry store that is redefining the essence of functional spaces with its unparalleled custom cabinets and cabinetry services. Liberty Kitchen Design stands as a beacon of creativity and craftsmanship, offering homeowners the unique opportunity to bring their dream kitchens and bathrooms to life. The pursuit of perfect cabinetry design is not just about storage solutions; it's about creating spaces that reflect the homeowner’s personal style while ensuring every inch serves a purpose. With an extensive array of options, from classic to contemporary, every design is executed with precision and attention to detail, ensuring that each piece is as beautiful as it is functional.
The foundation of Liberty Kitchen Design's offering is deeply rooted in its expertise and a relentless commitment to quality. For over seven years, this cabinetry store has been transforming homes across South Florida, guided by a philosophy that combines aesthetic elegance with practicality. Through the use of top-tier brands and materials, the team elevates every project they undertake, ensuring durability and timeless appeal. The service goes beyond mere installation; it’s a comprehensive design solution that takes into account the homeowner's lifestyle, the architecture of the space, and the seamless integration of form and function.
Embarking on a cabinetry project with Liberty Kitchen Design is a journey of collaboration. From the initial consultation to the final reveal, the team works closely with each client to understand their vision and requirements. This personalized approach allows for a fully customized space that meets every need and desire. Whether it’s a kitchen that becomes the heart of the home or a bathroom that offers a sanctuary of relaxation, the focus is always on tailoring the space to suit the individual. The meticulous planning and design process, combined with the skilled craftsmanship, results in cabinetry that not only serves its purpose but also adds value and character to the home.
Selecting the right partner for your cabinetry needs is crucial in achieving the home of your dreams. Liberty Kitchen Design in Delray Beach, FL, with its proven track record and commitment to excellence, offers a service that goes beyond the conventional. It’s not just about fitting cabinets; it’s about creating a space that you love, a space that reflects who you are, and a space that stands the test of time. With an unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and a portfolio that speaks volumes of their capability, stepping into their showroom is the first step towards realizing the potential of your home. Explore the possibilities and watch as your vision is transformed into reality, with every detail meticulously catered to, ensuring your home is exactly as you imagined, if not better.

Located at 5827 Del Roy, this new construction home by Jessica Koltun Home reflects a refined approach to residential design, where architecture, proportion, and material selection come together seamlessly. Designed and built with a focus on clean lines and timeless curb appeal, the home showcases a balanced exterior elevation, cohesive finishes, and thoughtfully integrated details that elevate the overall structure.
From initial concept through construction, this project emphasizes functional layout planning and buildable design, ensuring both visual impact and long-term durability. Jessica Koltun Home worked closely within the construction process to deliver a home that feels intentional from every angle—blending modern and transitional elements with a focus on simplicity and structure.
As with all Jessica Koltun Home projects, 5827 Del Roy highlights a commitment to designing and building high-quality new construction homes while collaborating with builders to create cohesive, well-executed residential spaces.

Kitchen in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes.
Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects.
Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs.
Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables |
Loloi: Custom performance rug collection |
Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication |
Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams |
Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group |
Budget ($ Range): $300K |
Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

We were approached by a Karen, a renowned sculptor, and her husband Tim, a retired MD, to collaborate on a whole-home renovation and furnishings overhaul of their newly purchased and very dated “forever home” with sweeping mountain views in Tigard. Karen and I very quickly found that we shared a genuine love of color, and from day one, this project was artistic and thoughtful, playful, and spirited. We updated tired surfaces and reworked odd angles, designing functional yet beautiful spaces that will serve this family for years to come. Warm, inviting colors surround you in these rooms, and classic lines play with unique pattern and bold scale. Personal touches, including mini versions of Karen’s work, appear throughout, and pages from a vintage book of Audubon paintings that she’d treasured for “ages” absolutely shine displayed framed in the living room.
Partnering with a proficient and dedicated general contractor (LHL Custom Homes & Remodeling) makes all the difference on a project like this. Our clients were patient and understanding, and despite the frustrating delays and extreme challenges of navigating the 2020/2021 pandemic, they couldn’t be happier with the results.
Photography by Christopher Dibble

Rodwin Architecture & Skycastle Homes
Location: Boulder, Colorado, USA
Interior design, space planning and architectural details converge thoughtfully in this transformative project. A 15-year old, 9,000 sf. home with generic interior finishes and odd layout needed bold, modern, fun and highly functional transformation for a large bustling family. To redefine the soul of this home, texture and light were given primary consideration. Elegant contemporary finishes, a warm color palette and dramatic lighting defined modern style throughout. A cascading chandelier by Stone Lighting in the entry makes a strong entry statement. Walls were removed to allow the kitchen/great/dining room to become a vibrant social center. A minimalist design approach is the perfect backdrop for the diverse art collection. Yet, the home is still highly functional for the entire family. We added windows, fireplaces, water features, and extended the home out to an expansive patio and yard.
The cavernous beige basement became an entertaining mecca, with a glowing modern wine-room, full bar, media room, arcade, billiards room and professional gym.
Bathrooms were all designed with personality and craftsmanship, featuring unique tiles, floating wood vanities and striking lighting.
This project was a 50/50 collaboration between Rodwin Architecture and Kimball Modern

Located at 5827 Del Roy, this new construction home by Jessica Koltun Home reflects a refined approach to residential design, where architecture, proportion, and material selection come together seamlessly. Designed and built with a focus on clean lines and timeless curb appeal, the home showcases a balanced exterior elevation, cohesive finishes, and thoughtfully integrated details that elevate the overall structure.
From initial concept through construction, this project emphasizes functional layout planning and buildable design, ensuring both visual impact and long-term durability. Jessica Koltun Home worked closely within the construction process to deliver a home that feels intentional from every angle—blending modern and transitional elements with a focus on simplicity and structure.
As with all Jessica Koltun Home projects, 5827 Del Roy highlights a commitment to designing and building high-quality new construction homes while collaborating with builders to create cohesive, well-executed residential spaces.

Dining Room in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes.
Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects.
Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs.
Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables |
Loloi: Custom performance rug collection |
Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication |
Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams |
Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group |
Budget ($ Range): $300K |
Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

Pool House in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes.
Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects.
Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs.
Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables |
Loloi: Custom performance rug collection |
Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication |
Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams |
Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group |
Budget ($ Range): $300K |
Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

We were approached by a Karen, a renowned sculptor, and her husband Tim, a retired MD, to collaborate on a whole-home renovation and furnishings overhaul of their newly purchased and very dated “forever home” with sweeping mountain views in Tigard. Karen and I very quickly found that we shared a genuine love of color, and from day one, this project was artistic and thoughtful, playful, and spirited. We updated tired surfaces and reworked odd angles, designing functional yet beautiful spaces that will serve this family for years to come. Warm, inviting colors surround you in these rooms, and classic lines play with unique pattern and bold scale. Personal touches, including mini versions of Karen’s work, appear throughout, and pages from a vintage book of Audubon paintings that she’d treasured for “ages” absolutely shine displayed framed in the living room.
Partnering with a proficient and dedicated general contractor (LHL Custom Homes & Remodeling) makes all the difference on a project like this. Our clients were patient and understanding, and despite the frustrating delays and extreme challenges of navigating the 2020/2021 pandemic, they couldn’t be happier with the results.
Photography by Christopher Dibble

Rodwin Architecture & Skycastle Homes
Location: Boulder, Colorado, USA
Interior design, space planning and architectural details converge thoughtfully in this transformative project. A 15-year old, 9,000 sf. home with generic interior finishes and odd layout needed bold, modern, fun and highly functional transformation for a large bustling family. To redefine the soul of this home, texture and light were given primary consideration. Elegant contemporary finishes, a warm color palette and dramatic lighting defined modern style throughout. A cascading chandelier by Stone Lighting in the entry makes a strong entry statement. Walls were removed to allow the kitchen/great/dining room to become a vibrant social center. A minimalist design approach is the perfect backdrop for the diverse art collection. Yet, the home is still highly functional for the entire family. We added windows, fireplaces, water features, and extended the home out to an expansive patio and yard.
The cavernous beige basement became an entertaining mecca, with a glowing modern wine-room, full bar, media room, arcade, billiards room and professional gym.
Bathrooms were all designed with personality and craftsmanship, featuring unique tiles, floating wood vanities and striking lighting.
This project was a 50/50 collaboration between Rodwin Architecture and Kimball Modern

Our clients came to our North Showroom in Cedar Park, TX wanting to completely renovate the outdated cabinets and countertops in their newly purchased home. The flow of the kitchen was not aligning with their new family needs, and the style did not match their modern vision. The dated kitchen left a lot of unused space, and had pain points that disturbed the flow and symmetry of the space. We developed a design to take advantage of the room height, spacious area, and natural light from the bay window nook area.
Our designer Dave met with the clients in the showroom and discovered the needs and wants to make the kitchen remodel a success. After understanding the client’s vision and requirements, they begun the collaboration on their kitchen design. During this phase we concluded we could achieve the kitchen design with in-stock cabinets from Kitchen Cabinet Distributors (KCD), a national recognized in-stock cabinet provider. We could have chosen a custom kitchen cabinetry line, however KCD’s offerings were the perfect fit for the design and allowed for an opportunity to save some of the budget for full quartz backsplash vs. tile. Our designers help you navigate the different lines we carry and are thoughtful to not steer you to more than you need to succeed. The first order of business was to change the orientation of the island, and move its position to frame the new galley arrangement. This would allow for better egress around the island and prevent tight spaces for a busy new kitchen.
Secondly, now was the time to take advantage of the room height and install new stacked wall cabinets with clear glass panels on the top row. This made the kitchen renovation feel more grand, bright, and inviting. The glass provided opportunity to tie in the lighting scheme and lend more warmth to the design. Coupled with the toe kick and under cabinet lights in the base cabinets, the kitchen invites you in. Dave also took full advantage of the kitchen layout by using upper cabinets and no open shelving.
We also wanted to find a new home for the built-in microwave as a stainless hood was now going to frame the cooktop / oven combo. We modified the cabinet in the island to trim in a microwave, at the same time keeping it out of view from the living area. Building on this approach, we also took the trash bin out of the kitchen space and provided a dedicated double trash bin cabinet. Aesthetics were very important in this design.

For their third Urbanology collaboration, longtime clients and close friends, the Songs, both physicians, envisioned a beautifully designed home in Dallas that exuded calm functionality and understated beauty. Rooted in their Asian heritage and Kim’s love for wabi-sabi simplicity, the design embraced clean lines, warm neutrals, and tactile materials that feel approachable yet elevated. The entry and living spaces were reimagined with textural millwork and a sculptural fireplace, creating cohesion and a serene rhythm between daily life and family gatherings.
In the office, a once-awkward layout was transformed through custom millwork that turned the piano into a purposeful centerpiece, joined by a reading nook and seamless storage. The expansive primary bedroom gained intimacy and balance through built-in plaster planters, library-style cabinetry, and a curved sofa perfect for evening wine and conversation. Peter’s guest-turned-primary bath became a master class in function, featuring seamless, antimicrobial surfaces and smart hidden storage for his daily rituals.
Through every detail, this third phase of the Midway Hollow residence reflects “the art of ease”: spaces that are clean but lived-in, practical but poetic. What began as functional refinements evolved into a warm, layered home—one that honors the couple’s rhythm, heritage, and pursuit of a life beautifully designed, but never overdone.

Kitchen in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes.
Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects.
Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs.
Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables |
Loloi: Custom performance rug collection |
Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication |
Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams |
Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group |
Budget ($ Range): $300K |
Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS
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