As Arlene Ladegaard of Design Connection, Inc. commenced work in other areas of the client’s house, the homeowner began to see the transitions and grow more aware of design trends, and decided to add his master bathroom to the scope of the project. In the master shower, 4 “x 18” tiles are used vertically, and a niche was fabricated using marble tile with chrome accents. The entrance to the shower has a zero clearance entry for easy access, while the Euro glass enclosure give the bathroom a high end edge. Design Connection Inc. provided for this project: space plans, elevations, tile, lighting, material selections, wallpaper, liaison with the contractor, and project management.

See what our client say about Paul Lopa Designs: We recently remodeled a studio we purchased for guests who visit us. The project included the demolition of a kitchenettem and a bathroom, and the installation of new cabinets, wood flooring, granite countertops, appliances, wood molding and a custom Murphy bed in the sleeping area. My husband and I wanted a contractor who specializes in high end kitchens. We hired Paul Lopa (who had previously done two projects for us—a kitchen remodel and a bathroom remodel) as we were extremely impressed with his work, from beginning to end. For the studio project, Paul brought many samples to our home before the project commenced. It was very easy for us to select the materials, from the wood used for the cabinets and Murphy bed to the granite countertop and wood floor. We were also very pleased with the appliances he helped us select as well, as the kitchen was transformed into a full-fledged kitchen with an eat-at counter. Paul helped us select custom marble for the bathroom which is gorgeous! Every suggestion he made was great. The studio is now worthy of being photographed by Architectural Digest! Paul and his crew are very professional. His staff is friendly and were always on time. Upon completion of the job, the whole area was clean and ready to use. Paul was always accessible and available to answer questions whenever we had one. We were impressed that the project finished on time and on budget! We will definitely use Paul for all future work. He is a consummate professional and very nice to work with.

Our clients sought classic Craftsman styling to accentuate the one-of-kind view their from their land. At 2,200 sf, this single-family home marries traditional craftsman style with modern energy efficiency and design. A Built Green Level 5, the home features an extremely efficient Heat Return Ventilation system, amazing indoor air quality, thermal solar hot water, solar panels, hydronic radiant in-floor heat, warm wood interior detailing, timeless built-in cabinetry, tastefully placed wood coffered ceilings, and expansive views of Commencement Bay and Mt. Rainier that harvest the eastern sunlight for winter heat. Photo by: Poppi Photography

As Arlene Ladegaard of Design Connection, Inc. commenced work in other areas of the client’s house, the homeowner began to see the transitions and grow more aware of design trends, and decided to add his master bathroom to the scope of the project. In the master shower, 4 “x 18” tiles are used vertically, and a niche was fabricated using marble tile with chrome accents. The entrance to the shower has a zero clearance entry for easy access, while the Euro glass enclosure give the bathroom a high end edge. Design Connection Inc. provided for this project: space plans, elevations, tile, lighting, material selections, wallpaper, liaison with the contractor, and project management.

This custom design and built home in Yolo County commenced with a bubble diagram of the spaces the client wished to incorporate into their forever home. The home includes architectural features such as aging in place design, 28 ft tall north facing solarium, an elevator shaft for future build out (if necessary), durable cement fiber board siding, standing seam cool metal roof, optimal window shading with overhangs, a front second level deck overlooking a park, a custom designed and built front cable railing system, polished concrete floors on the first level, and passive heating and cooling elements throughout for maximum comfort. Design, Build, and Enjoy!

As Arlene Ladegaard of Design Connection, Inc. commenced work in other areas of the client’s house, the homeowner began to see the transitions and grow more aware of design trends, and decided to add his master bathroom to the scope of the project. In the master shower, 4 “x 18” tiles are used vertically, and a niche was fabricated using marble tile with chrome accents. The entrance to the shower has a zero clearance entry for easy access, while the Euro glass enclosure give the bathroom a high end edge. Design Connection Inc. provided for this project: space plans, elevations, tile, lighting, material selections, wallpaper, liaison with the contractor, and project management.

Elegant simplicity is the hallmark of this Craftsman bedroom. Created to accommodate our clients today and tomorrow, there's room for graceful Aging In Place while enjoying the world class view.

Design ideas for a contemporary full sun front yard stone landscaping in Seattle.

Modern Sliding Interior Door with Italian Hardware
Eat-in kitchen - large modern single-wall eat-in kitchen idea in Miami with a drop-in sink, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

Core Remodel was contacted by the new owners of this single family home in Logan Square after they hired another general contractor to remodel their kitchen. Unfortunately, the original GC didn't finish the job and the owners were waiting over 6 months for work to commence - and expecting a newborn baby, living with their parents temporarily and needed a working and functional master bathroom to move back home. Core Remodel was able to come in and make the necessary changes to get this job moving along and completed with very little to work with. The new plumbing and electrical had to be completely redone as there was lots of mechanical errors from the old GC. The existing space had no master bathroom on the second floor, so this was an addition - not a typical remodel. The job was eventually completed and the owners were thrilled with the quality of work, timeliness and constant communication. This was one of our favorite jobs to see how happy the clients were after the job was completed. The owners are amazing and continue to give Core Remodel glowing reviews and referrals. Additionally, the owners had a very clear vision for what they wanted and we were able to complete the job while working with the owners!

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary full sun front yard stone landscaping in Seattle.

Whole-house remodel of a Lexington bungalow with a two-story garage addition, entertainment space, and luxurious primary suite.
Inspiration for a transitional living room remodel in Boston

Example of a large trendy master beige tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile bathroom design in Seattle with a vessel sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets and beige walls

This image features a warm and inviting living room centered around a beautiful stone fireplace that serves as the focal point of the space. The glowing fire adds a cozy atmosphere, while the mounted television and rustic wood mantel create a perfect balance of function and style. Comfortable seating is arranged symmetrically around the fireplace, encouraging conversation and relaxation. Large framed artwork and natural textures throughout the room enhance the rustic elegance, while soft lighting and layered décor add depth and comfort. Overall, the space feels welcoming, refined, and thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and entertaining.

At the outset, this project began with the transformation of a 2-car attached garage. The goal was to create a mudroom, an exercise room, and a breezeway to seamlessly connect the spacious detached garage with the main part of the house. Additionally, the project involved partial roof removal and the addition of a new front entry. But then came an unexpected twist – scope creep. We found ourselves veering away from the initial client-supplied architectural plans. After numerous consultations with the clients and several iterations of the design, we arrived at a significantly improved plan for the remodel and addition. Our journey commenced with the demolition of almost the entire former 2-car garage, making space for a new, oversized 3-car garage measuring 40′ x 28′. This garage was strategically placed between the existing house and the large detached garage. We introduced a custom low-sloped flat roof, designed to address historical drainage issues. To mitigate water pooling, we created a custom concrete step at the back corner of the garage, equipped with a sturdy metal grate that sits flush with the step. We also installed a PVC drainage system, commencing at the step and running beneath a newly designed patio, ultimately draining into the yard. These measures have significantly reduced water accumulation around the house. The new garage boasts several features, including Longboard aluminum siding, custom full glass garage doors, interior drywall finished to a level 4, an abundance of can lights, an epoxy floor coating, vinyl base trim, a new forced air garage heater, and more. The clients also requested a designated space for their three kids and their friends to enjoy, thus giving birth to the “Kid Zone.” We partitioned a section of the existing oversized garage, resulting in a space measuring approximately 22′ x 32′, brimming with entertainment possibilities. To enhance control over the temperature in the Kid Zone, we collaborated with our licensed HVAC partner to install a cold weather mini-split system. One of the most significant challenges was the modernization and consolidation of the home’s main electrical systems. We reconfigured and combined 6-7 different electrical panels into just two. One panel serves the main house, while the second is dedicated to backup power from a generator. These panels, along with the boiler for the in-floor heating system, are housed in a newly constructed mechanical room within the Kid Zone. Inside the main house, we completed various tasks, such as removing the ceiling in the hallway from the new garage to address prior water damage, improve insulation, and rework electrical and HVAC systems. We also replaced the ceiling from the front door to the base of the stairs, adding new can lighting and enhancing insulation. Skilled drywall specialists then installed and finished new drywall to a level 5 standard. The exterior of the house underwent a complete overhaul. Before installing new roofing on the entire house and garage, we modified an existing flat roof by adding custom lumber and plywood to enhance the pitch, preventing future ice dams. A new rubber roof was expertly installed on the oversized 3-car garage, and the flat roof section we re-framed. Our meticulous exterior team removed old white aluminum soffit, fascia, and gutters, replacing them with new framing to accommodate Longboard soffit material. This task was particularly challenging due to the age of the house and the non-standard wall and roof framing. Our skilled exterior subcontractors ensured a perfect fit. Near the pool area, we discovered severe rot and decay from years of water intrusion. After informing the homeowners, we ordered and installed five new commercial-style block framed windows and a custom 8′ high Anderson patio door. This involved careful removal and replacement of window headers from the outside to avoid disturbing the finished part of the house. We reframed the large openings to fit the new windows, and our skilled trim carpenters installed new walnut casing, base, and window sills. In total, we replaced around 900 lineal feet of soffit and installed approximately 32 squares of aluminum siding. The entire house was meticulously prepped, repaired, and painted according to the client’s chosen color. Throughout the project, we incorporated numerous custom touches and unique design elements, some of which you can see in the pictures. Our team also addressed various unforeseen challenges, from soil issues to rot and decay repair, roof leaks, drainage problems, electrical and HVAC complexities, and much more. At Xpand Inc., we take pride in making it all happen, turning your remodeling and renovation dreams into reality.

Our clients sought classic Craftsman styling to accentuate the one-of-kind view their from their land. At 2,200 sf, this single-family home marries traditional craftsman style with modern energy efficiency and design. A Built Green Level 5, the home features an extremely efficient Heat Return Ventilation system, amazing indoor air quality, thermal solar hot water, solar panels, hydronic radiant in-floor heat, warm wood interior detailing, timeless built-in cabinetry, and tastefully placed wood coffered ceilings. Built on a steep slope, the top floor garage and entry work with the challenges of this site to welcome you into a wonderful Pacific Northwest Craftsman home. Photo by: Poppi Photography

The third part of the project is about the new addition to the family who has added a new sense of fun and liveliness. They adopted a puppy and decided to install what we are calling the doggy tunnel. Working closely with our carpenter we designed and built the doggy tunnel starting in the entry closet, with a small box to fit the dog, through the wall to another box on the outside of the condo with doggy doors on each end and in the middle. Training has commenced and I heard the puppy is now using it and loving it. This makes it easier for both the homeowner and the dog.

Hallway - mid-sized contemporary ceramic tile hallway idea in Seattle with beige walls

At the outset, this project began with the transformation of a 2-car attached garage. The goal was to create a mudroom, an exercise room, and a breezeway to seamlessly connect the spacious detached garage with the main part of the house. Additionally, the project involved partial roof removal and the addition of a new front entry. But then came an unexpected twist – scope creep. We found ourselves veering away from the initial client-supplied architectural plans. After numerous consultations with the clients and several iterations of the design, we arrived at a significantly improved plan for the remodel and addition. Our journey commenced with the demolition of almost the entire former 2-car garage, making space for a new, oversized 3-car garage measuring 40′ x 28′. This garage was strategically placed between the existing house and the large detached garage. We introduced a custom low-sloped flat roof, designed to address historical drainage issues. To mitigate water pooling, we created a custom concrete step at the back corner of the garage, equipped with a sturdy metal grate that sits flush with the step. We also installed a PVC drainage system, commencing at the step and running beneath a newly designed patio, ultimately draining into the yard. These measures have significantly reduced water accumulation around the house. The new garage boasts several features, including Longboard aluminum siding, custom full glass garage doors, interior drywall finished to a level 4, an abundance of can lights, an epoxy floor coating, vinyl base trim, a new forced air garage heater, and more. The clients also requested a designated space for their three kids and their friends to enjoy, thus giving birth to the “Kid Zone.” We partitioned a section of the existing oversized garage, resulting in a space measuring approximately 22′ x 32′, brimming with entertainment possibilities. To enhance control over the temperature in the Kid Zone, we collaborated with our licensed HVAC partner to install a cold weather mini-split system. One of the most significant challenges was the modernization and consolidation of the home’s main electrical systems. We reconfigured and combined 6-7 different electrical panels into just two. One panel serves the main house, while the second is dedicated to backup power from a generator. These panels, along with the boiler for the in-floor heating system, are housed in a newly constructed mechanical room within the Kid Zone. Inside the main house, we completed various tasks, such as removing the ceiling in the hallway from the new garage to address prior water damage, improve insulation, and rework electrical and HVAC systems. We also replaced the ceiling from the front door to the base of the stairs, adding new can lighting and enhancing insulation. Skilled drywall specialists then installed and finished new drywall to a level 5 standard. The exterior of the house underwent a complete overhaul. Before installing new roofing on the entire house and garage, we modified an existing flat roof by adding custom lumber and plywood to enhance the pitch, preventing future ice dams. A new rubber roof was expertly installed on the oversized 3-car garage, and the flat roof section we re-framed. Our meticulous exterior team removed old white aluminum soffit, fascia, and gutters, replacing them with new framing to accommodate Longboard soffit material. This task was particularly challenging due to the age of the house and the non-standard wall and roof framing. Our skilled exterior subcontractors ensured a perfect fit. Near the pool area, we discovered severe rot and decay from years of water intrusion. After informing the homeowners, we ordered and installed five new commercial-style block framed windows and a custom 8′ high Anderson patio door. This involved careful removal and replacement of window headers from the outside to avoid disturbing the finished part of the house. We reframed the large openings to fit the new windows, and our skilled trim carpenters installed new walnut casing, base, and window sills. In total, we replaced around 900 lineal feet of soffit and installed approximately 32 squares of aluminum siding. The entire house was meticulously prepped, repaired, and painted according to the client’s chosen color. Throughout the project, we incorporated numerous custom touches and unique design elements, some of which you can see in the pictures. Our team also addressed various unforeseen challenges, from soil issues to rot and decay repair, roof leaks, drainage problems, electrical and HVAC complexities, and much more. At Xpand Inc., we take pride in making it all happen, turning your remodeling and renovation dreams into reality.