Search results for "Concept first method" in Home Design Ideas

This exciting ‘whole house’ project began when a couple contacted us while house shopping. They found a 1980s contemporary colonial in Delafield with a great wooded lot on Nagawicka Lake. The kitchen and bathrooms were outdated but it had plenty of space and potential.
We toured the home, learned about their design style and dream for the new space. The goal of this project was to create a contemporary space that was interesting and unique. Above all, they wanted a home where they could entertain and make a future.
At first, the couple thought they wanted to remodel only the kitchen and master suite. But after seeing Kowalske Kitchen & Bath’s design for transforming the entire house, they wanted to remodel it all. The couple purchased the home and hired us as the design-build-remodel contractor.
First Floor Remodel
The biggest transformation of this home is the first floor. The original entry was dark and closed off. By removing the dining room walls, we opened up the space for a grand entry into the kitchen and dining room. The open-concept kitchen features a large navy island, blue subway tile backsplash, bamboo wood shelves and fun lighting.
On the first floor, we also turned a bathroom/sauna into a full bathroom and powder room. We were excited to give them a ‘wow’ powder room with a yellow penny tile wall, floating bamboo vanity and chic geometric cement tile floor.
Second Floor Remodel
The second floor remodel included a fireplace landing area, master suite, and turning an open loft area into a bedroom and bathroom.
In the master suite, we removed a large whirlpool tub and reconfigured the bathroom/closet space. For a clean and classic look, the couple chose a black and white color pallet. We used subway tile on the walls in the large walk-in shower, a glass door with matte black finish, hexagon tile on the floor, a black vanity and quartz counters.
Flooring, trim and doors were updated throughout the home for a cohesive look.

Urban Family Retreat at Gampaha | A Vision of Seamless Flow
In the heart of Gampaha, an extraordinary residential project has emerged—a refined family retreat that balances modern design with comfort and functionality. The "Pass By Spaces" concept, central to this architectural vision, ensures that each area of the home flows seamlessly into the next. This thoughtful design approach creates a sense of unity and connection throughout the home, offering a sophisticated yet tranquil living experience for its residents.
The Design Concept: "Pass By Spaces"
The underlying philosophy of the project centers on the concept of “Pass By Spaces”—a circulation strategy that serves as the spine of the home. By utilizing this continuous circulation, the design allows the different spaces to interact with one another naturally. From the family living room to the study, guest areas, and private bedrooms, each function flows into the next through this unified circulation, creating a harmonious journey through the home. This approach not only enhances spatial connectivity but also fosters a sense of movement, encouraging ease and fluidity in daily living.
Architectural Team & Project Details
• Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage contact | 076 869 0315
• Junior Architects | Sewwandi Nayanathara / Isuri Hettiarachchi
• Structural Engineer | Mr. Mahinda Rathnasiri
• Contractor | Mr. Lal Anura | Lal Construction
• Interior Architecture | Tharanga Hewage Chartered Architect
• Interior design and Contractor | Monara Creations
• Furniture | Singhe Furniture
• Window Fashion | Dilshan Drapers
• Wall Arts | Chakad Creation
• Land Extent | 25.01 perches
• Total Floor Area | 5059 sqft
• Ground Floor | 2802 sqft
• First Floor | 1878 sqft
• Roof Slab & Terraces | 379 sqft
• Photography | Ganidu Balasuriya photography
• Videography | Neyomal Rangeeth
Key Features of the Residence
Exterior and Car Porch:
The home’s exterior is marked by a sleek, modern design that complements its surroundings. A two-vehicle car porch provides ample space and easy access, while maintaining an elegant, minimalistic aesthetic.
Main Circulation:
The hallmark of this design is its single-spine circulation, which connects all key areas of the home. This circulation serves as the backbone of the house, facilitating smooth transitions between private and social spaces. The careful placement of rooms ensures that the flow is intuitive and unobtrusive, allowing each space to remain distinct while still being interconnected.
Interior Layout:
• Bedrooms: The home features five generously sized bedrooms, each designed to offer privacy and comfort. Some bedrooms include private terraces, providing residents with an intimate outdoor space.
• Family & Guest Areas: The expansive family living room is a central gathering space, complemented by a mini pantry for convenience. A dedicated guest living and dining area ensures that visitors enjoy a separate, comfortable space.
• Work & Study: A tranquil study room offers a quiet area for focus and reflection, while a flexible meeting room is perfect for professional engagements or personal gatherings.
• Private Spaces: In addition to the main living areas, the home includes a maid’s room, a laundry room, and four well-appointed bathrooms, including a powder room for guests.
• Storage & Utility: Thoughtful planning includes a generator room and ample storage space to meet the needs of modern living.
Design Considerations
A primary focus of the design is to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the home. The strategic placement of windows, terraces, and open spaces ensures that every room benefits from an abundance of daylight and fresh air, creating an airy and welcoming environment.
Sustainability also plays a key role in this design. Eco-friendly materials are incorporated to ensure energy efficiency, while landscaping is carefully integrated to maintain harmony between the indoors and the surrounding environment. These design elements allow the home to feel like a serene retreat amidst the urban landscape of Gampaha.
Conclusion
The “Pass By Spaces” design concept not only elevates the architectural experience but also fosters a sense of connection and tranquility for the residents of this urban family retreat. With a seamless flow between spaces, thoughtful use of materials, and an emphasis on sustainability, this home exemplifies a modern approach to residential design that prioritizes both style and functionality. For prospective homeowners looking to create a space that embodies both beauty and practicality, this project serves as a testament to what can be achieved through innovative design and meticulous attention to detail.
Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage
contact | 076 869 0315
Website | Design portfolio
https://www.tharangahewage.com/
https://www.behance.net/tharangaon71a4
Facebook Page | Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/Archt.tharangahewage
https://www.instagram.com/architect_tharanga_hewage/
YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZLpclw5H62sOfvBz94XFOA
Linkedin
http://www.linkedin.com/.../archt-tharanga-hewage-aia-sl...
Copyright © 2025 | Archt. Tharanga Sandaruwan Hewage, B.Arch. (Hons), AIA(SL). All Rights Reserved.

A modern home bar we custom designed for this Beverly Hills client. The exposed brick accent wall and aqua blue SoHo Concept bar stools stand out the most, while the other features are subtle but unique. With a double layered glass top table and custom designed acrylic shelving, the overall look is simple but powerful, colorful but clean.
Home located in Beverly Hill, California. Designed by Florida-based interior design firm Crespo Design Group, who also serves Malibu, Tampa, New York City, the Caribbean, and other areas throughout the United States.
Find the right local pro for your project

Open concept kitchen built by Lowell Custom Homes with cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company in Lake Geneva, Wi. White flat panel cabinet doors, range hood inset with stainless steel banding, modern hardware, large island with seating and double sink.

This remodel consisted of a whole house transformation. We took this 3 bedroom dated home and turned it into a 5 bedroom award winning showpiece, all without an addition. By reworking the awkward floor plan and lowering the living room floor to be level with the rest of the house we were able to create additional space within the existing footprint of the home. What was once the small lack-luster master suite, is now 2 kids bedrooms that share a jack and jill bath. The master suite was relocated to the first floor, and the kitchen that was located right at the front door, is now located in the back of the home with great access to the patio overlooking the golf course.
View more about this project and our company at our website: www.davefox.com

Old World European, Country Cottage. Three separate cottages make up this secluded village over looking a private lake in an old German, English, and French stone villa style. Hand scraped arched trusses, wide width random walnut plank flooring, distressed dark stained raised panel cabinetry, and hand carved moldings make these traditional buildings look like they have been here for 100s of years. Newly built of old materials, and old traditional building methods, including arched planked doors, leathered stone counter tops, stone entry, wrought iron straps, and metal beam straps. The Lake House is the first, a Tudor style cottage with a slate roof, 2 bedrooms, view filled living room open to the dining area, all overlooking the lake. The Carriage Home fills in when the kids come home to visit, and holds the garage for the whole idyllic village. This cottage features 2 bedrooms with on suite baths, a large open kitchen, and an warm, comfortable and inviting great room. All overlooking the lake. The third structure is the Wheel House, running a real wonderful old water wheel, and features a private suite upstairs, and a work space downstairs. All homes are slightly different in materials and color, including a few with old terra cotta roofing. Project Location: Ojai, California. Project designed by Maraya Interior Design. From their beautiful resort town of Ojai, they serve clients in Montecito, Hope Ranch, Malibu and Calabasas, across the tri-county area of Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles, south to Hidden Hills.
Wrought iron straps and hardware, railing. walnut handscraped wood floors, arched doorway, country cottage
Maraya Interior Design
Christopher Painter contractor

This 3000 SF farmhouse features four bedrooms and three baths over two floors. A first floor study can be used as a fifth bedroom. Open concept plan features beautiful kitchen with breakfast area and great room with fireplace. Butler's pantry leads to separate dining room. Upstairs, large master suite features a recessed ceiling and custom barn door leading to the marble master bath.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Trish Takacs Design
Award Winning & Highly Skilled Kitchen & Bath Designer in Columbus

Open concept floor plan offers easy flow in & out of the kitchen. Center piece island houses sink, dishwasher & cabinet storage with inviting seating. Flush cabinetry provides built-in refrigerator look.

Old World European, Country Cottage. Three separate cottages make up this secluded village over looking a private lake in an old German, English, and French stone villa style. Hand scraped arched trusses, wide width random walnut plank flooring, distressed dark stained raised panel cabinetry, and hand carved moldings make these traditional farmhouse cottage buildings look like they have been here for 100s of years. Newly built of old materials, and old traditional building methods, including arched planked doors, leathered stone counter tops, stone entry, wrought iron straps, and metal beam straps. The Lake House is the first, a Tudor style cottage with a slate roof, 2 bedrooms, view filled living room open to the dining area, all overlooking the lake. The Carriage Home fills in when the kids come home to visit, and holds the garage for the whole idyllic village. This cottage features 2 bedrooms with on suite baths, a large open kitchen, and an warm, comfortable and inviting great room. All overlooking the lake. The third structure is the Wheel House, running a real wonderful old water wheel, and features a private suite upstairs, and a work space downstairs. All homes are slightly different in materials and color, including a few with old terra cotta roofing. Project Location: Ojai, California. Project designed by Maraya Interior Design. From their beautiful resort town of Ojai, they serve clients in Montecito, Hope Ranch, Malibu and Calabasas, across the tri-county area of Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles, south to Hidden Hills.

OVERVIEW
Set into a mature Boston area neighborhood, this sophisticated 2900SF home offers efficient use of space, expression through form, and myriad of green features.
MULTI-GENERATIONAL LIVING
Designed to accommodate three family generations, paired living spaces on the first and second levels are architecturally expressed on the facade by window systems that wrap the front corners of the house. Included are two kitchens, two living areas, an office for two, and two master suites.
CURB APPEAL
The home includes both modern form and materials, using durable cedar and through-colored fiber cement siding, permeable parking with an electric charging station, and an acrylic overhang to shelter foot traffic from rain.
FEATURE STAIR
An open stair with resin treads and glass rails winds from the basement to the third floor, channeling natural light through all the home’s levels.
LEVEL ONE
The first floor kitchen opens to the living and dining space, offering a grand piano and wall of south facing glass. A master suite and private ‘home office for two’ complete the level.
LEVEL TWO
The second floor includes another open concept living, dining, and kitchen space, with kitchen sink views over the green roof. A full bath, bedroom and reading nook are perfect for the children.
LEVEL THREE
The third floor provides the second master suite, with separate sink and wardrobe area, plus a private roofdeck.
ENERGY
The super insulated home features air-tight construction, continuous exterior insulation, and triple-glazed windows. The walls and basement feature foam-free cavity & exterior insulation. On the rooftop, a solar electric system helps offset energy consumption.
WATER
Cisterns capture stormwater and connect to a drip irrigation system. Inside the home, consumption is limited with high efficiency fixtures and appliances.
TEAM
Architecture & Mechanical Design – ZeroEnergy Design
Contractor – Aedi Construction
Photos – Eric Roth Photography

Kate Blehar
John T. Pugh, Architect, LLC is an architectural design firm located in Boston, Massachusetts. John is a registered architect, whose design work has been published and exhibited both nationally and internationally. In addition to his design accolades, John is a seasoned project manager who personally works with each client to design and craft their beautiful new residence or addition. Our firm can provide clients with seamless concept to construction close-out project delivery. If a client prefers working in a more traditional design-only basis, we warmly welcome that approach as well. “Customer first, customer focused” is our approach to every project.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.

This Indianapolis home went through a drastic transformation to go from multiple main floor rooms, to one welcoming open concept. Custom Living's in-house designer, Justin, designed a wonderful plan to touch on what everyone enjoys about an open floor plan. Allowing more entertaining space, a cohesive social atmosphere, and to utilize rooms/square footage that previously left idle.
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