Search results for "Connection issues" in Home Design Ideas

This south facing lakefront condo unit our clients purchased, with its terrace and solaria overlooking the water, was virtually in its original state, never having been renovated. Upon beginning construction, the space was completely opened to the stunning view. A contemporary aesthetic was created while implementing warmth with the choice of materials. With this openness came a new set of issues: mechanical travel and connection to existing runs, all inside a typical concrete condo structure. What we think is a true example of design complexity rendering simplicity.

The Brooke Residence ‘Addi- tion by Subtraction’ remodeling project was recognized with numerous regional and national awards and was selected for Fine Homebuilding’s Annual Issue on Houses.
This 1920’s Craftsman Bungalow had been poorly modified in the 70’s in an attempt to address poor energy performance with a scabbed on solarium. The design solution removed the solarium and completely reimagined the floor plan: The kitchen was relocated to the rear; the stairway was relocated to enhance function, and a better connection to the family room was created.

This exciting renovation improved both the look and functionality of our client’s Master Ensuite and Shared Bathroom. Both rooms had both dated aesthetics and dysfunctional layouts, but more importantly, they required updated plumbing due to an old renovation where the plumbing had been done incorrectly and had caused leaking and ceiling damage below.
To solve the leaks, and provide better function in both Bathrooms, fixtures in the Shared Bathroom were relocated, and the previously installed plumbing connections were corrected. This solved the leak issues and provided improved function in both Bathrooms.
A rarely used large corner tub in the Master Ensuite was eliminated to accommodate a spacious walk-in shower with a bench, and a custom wall-to-wall double vanity provided a nice aesthetic and lots of useful storage.
The tub and toilet in the Shared Bathroom were switched and new custom vanity and linen cabinets were installed.
Each Bathroom was given its own distinct look. Porcelain tiles made to look like marble, and mosaics accentuated with patterned floor tiles, luxurious marble knobs and handles, and beautiful jewel faucets gave the Master Ensuite a Transitional charm.
The Shared Bathroom was completed with large format black porcelain tiles with a marble look, glass accent mosaics, and modern plumbing fixtures gave the room an eclectic flair.
The project was finished on time, and our clients couldn’t be happier! They can now enjoy their personalized Shared Bathroom and Master Ensuite, with the comfort of knowing the plumbing is installed correctly.
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The home was built in 1926 and had been remodeled a couple times. The kitchen was small and sandwiched between the closed off dining room and office not offering and view of outside or option for natural light (2 story house).
The owners wanted to have a bigger kitchen with lots of light and a view of the backyard. 2-story houses have a harder time moving walls due to structural issues, but we were able to eliminate the wall between the office and kitchen to open up the space. After working through several design options, we relocated the laundry room door, created a new side door to the driveway, and moved the sink to the back wall to have a view of the yard.
The owners love the craftsmen style and wanted to keep the look and feel but modernize everything. The accent tile behind the cooktop is handmade by FireClay tile. Custom cabinets from a local cabinet shop The Wood Connection.

Our design for the expansion and gut renovation of a small 1200 square foot house in a residential neighborhood triples is size, and reworks the living arrangement. The rear addition takes advantage of southern exposure with a "greenhouse" room that provides solar heat gain in winter, shading in summer, and a vast connection to the rear yard.
Architecturally, we used an approach we call "willful practicality." The new soaring ceiling ties together first and second floors in a dramatic volumetric expansion of space, while providing increased ventilation and daylighting from greenhouse to operable windows and skylights at the peak. Exterior pockets of space are created from curved forces pushing in from outside to form cedar clad porch and stoop.
Sustainable design is employed throughout all materials, energy systems and insulation. Masonry exterior walls and concrete floors provide thermal mass for the interior by insulating the exterior. An ERV system facilitates increased air changes and minimizes changes to the interior air temperature. Energy and water saving features and renewable, non-toxic materal selections are important aspects of the house design. Environmental community issues are addressed with a drywell in the side yard to mitigate rain runoff into the town sewer system. The long sloping south facing roof is in anticipation of future solar panels, with the standing seam metal roof providing anchoring opportunities for the panels.
The exterior walls are clad in stucco, cedar, and cement-fiber panels defining different areas of the house. Closed cell spray insulation is applied to exterior walls and roof, giving the house an "air-tight" seal against air infiltration and a high R-value. The ERV system provides the ventilation needed with this tight envelope. The interior comfort level and economizing are the beneficial results of the building methods and systems employed in the house.
Photographer: Peter Kubilus

The Brooke Residence ‘Addi- tion by Subtraction’ remodeling project was recognized with numerous regional and national awards and was selected for Fine Homebuilding’s Annual Issue on Houses.
This 1920’s Craftsman Bungalow had been poorly modified in the 70’s in an attempt to address poor energy performance with a scabbed on solarium. The design solution removed the solarium and completely reimagined the floor plan: The kitchen was relocated to the rear; the stairway was relocated to enhance function, and a better connection to the family room was created.

Our design for the expansion and gut renovation of a small 1200 square foot house in a residential neighborhood triples is size, and reworks the living arrangement. The rear addition takes advantage of southern exposure with a "greenhouse" room that provides solar heat gain in winter, shading in summer, and a vast connection to the rear yard.
Architecturally, we used an approach we call "willful practicality." The new soaring ceiling ties together first and second floors in a dramatic volumetric expansion of space, while providing increased ventilation and daylighting from greenhouse to operable windows and skylights at the peak. Exterior pockets of space are created from curved forces pushing in from outside to form cedar clad porch and stoop.
Sustainable design is employed throughout all materials, energy systems and insulation. Masonry exterior walls and concrete floors provide thermal mass for the interior by insulating the exterior. An ERV system facilitates increased air changes and minimizes changes to the interior air temperature. Energy and water saving features and renewable, non-toxic materal selections are important aspects of the house design. Environmental community issues are addressed with a drywell in the side yard to mitigate rain runoff into the town sewer system. The long sloping south facing roof is in anticipation of future solar panels, with the standing seam metal roof providing anchoring opportunities for the panels.
The exterior walls are clad in stucco, cedar, and cement-fiber panels defining different areas of the house. Closed cell spray insulation is applied to exterior walls and roof, giving the house an "air-tight" seal against air infiltration and a high R-value. The ERV system provides the ventilation needed with this tight envelope. The interior comfort level and economizing are the beneficial results of the building methods and systems employed in the house.
Photographer: Peter Kubilus

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano.
Project Goals
+ Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather
+ Cooking functionality for their family farm
+ Add a workstation sink for easy food prep
+ Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection
+ Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style
Challenges & Issues
+ Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist
+ Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop
+ Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home
+ The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions
Country Kitchen Features:
Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining.
Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals.
Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty.
Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens.
Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together.
New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests.
Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks.
Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently.
Country House Living Room:
New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC.
Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling.
Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room.
New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

This exciting renovation improved both the look and functionality of our client’s Master Ensuite and Shared Bathroom. Both rooms had both dated aesthetics and dysfunctional layouts, but more importantly, they required updated plumbing due to an old renovation where the plumbing had been done incorrectly and had caused leaking and ceiling damage below.
To solve the leaks, and provide better function in both Bathrooms, fixtures in the Shared Bathroom were relocated, and the previously installed plumbing connections were corrected. This solved the leak issues and provided improved function in both Bathrooms.
A rarely used large corner tub in the Master Ensuite was eliminated to accommodate a spacious walk-in shower with a bench, and a custom wall-to-wall double vanity provided a nice aesthetic and lots of useful storage.
The tub and toilet in the Shared Bathroom were switched and new custom vanity and linen cabinets were installed.
Each Bathroom was given its own distinct look. Porcelain tiles made to look like marble, and mosaics accentuated with patterned floor tiles, luxurious marble knobs and handles, and beautiful jewel faucets gave the Master Ensuite a Transitional charm.
The Shared Bathroom was completed with large format black porcelain tiles with a marble look, glass accent mosaics, and modern plumbing fixtures gave the room an eclectic flair.
The project was finished on time, and our clients couldn’t be happier! They can now enjoy their personalized Shared Bathroom and Master Ensuite, with the comfort of knowing the plumbing is installed correctly.

The home was built in 1926 and had been remodeled a couple times. The kitchen was small and sandwiched between the closed off dining room and office not offering and view of outside or option for natural light (2 story house).
The owners wanted to have a bigger kitchen with lots of light and a view of the backyard. 2-story houses have a harder time moving walls due to structural issues, but we were able to eliminate the wall between the office and kitchen to open up the space. After working through several design options, we relocated the laundry room door, created a new side door to the driveway, and moved the sink to the back wall to have a view of the yard.
The owners love the craftsmen style and wanted to keep the look and feel but modernize everything. The accent tile behind the cooktop is handmade by FireClay tile. Custom cabinets from a local cabinet shop The Wood Connection.

The home was built in 1926 and had been remodeled a couple times. The kitchen was small and sandwiched between the closed off dining room and office not offering and view of outside or option for natural light (2 story house).
The owners wanted to have a bigger kitchen with lots of light and a view of the backyard. 2-story houses have a harder time moving walls due to structural issues, but we were able to eliminate the wall between the office and kitchen to open up the space. After working through several design options, we relocated the laundry room door, created a new side door to the driveway, and moved the sink to the back wall to have a view of the yard.
The owners love the craftsmen style and wanted to keep the look and feel but modernize everything. The accent tile behind the cooktop is handmade by FireClay tile. Custom cabinets from a local cabinet shop The Wood Connection.

Upon first entering this early 1900s North Asheville home, Sean Perry felt as if he’d stepped back in time. And though it needed a full restoration — addressing multiple structural issues, as well as outdated electrical, plumbing, gas and insulation systems — maintaining the home’s historical integrity was at the forefront of this massive (and ultimately striking) undertaking.
With a goal of updating the home for modern living, The Hands of Sean Perry Co. rebuilt the original Porte Cochere to accommodate today’s vehicles. Then, the team installed a pool and stone deck in the backyard, giving the homeowners and their children a place to relax and enjoy sunny summer afternoons. Bringing even more light to the project, the crew relocated the home’s kitchen to its sunniest room, directly next to the veranda, drawing better connections between dining and entertaining.
In addition to these big changes, every room, including the basement, received updates and renovations — the dining room, kitchen, mudroom, living room, three full- and two half-bathrooms, four bedrooms, two office rooms and a finished attic space. Keeping as many details true to the home’s historic character as possible, the team even restored the original heart pine and oak floors, as well as its central staircase.

Wood species like cedar and redwood are beauties to behold and even in our tough Minnesota climate they hold up exceedingly well. However, there are limits as this homeowner discovered after more than 20 years of deck-life. Upon inspection we discovered not only were the deck boards showing decay, the framing and support posts also had issues. The original install at the four season porch level was also found to be done improperly, without proper flashing or clearance between decking and patio door sill and so there was considerable rot damage there as well. We repaired the connection between the 4 season porch and deck, the deck structure that was compromised, put down new cedar decking and we stained everything with Storm System Cat 2 semi-transparent cedar tone oil finish. The effect is dramatic, the look unique, and while low maintenance composites are trending, there is something to be said for going all natural.
Design/Build Consultant — Jeff Robinson
Photography — Alyssa Lee

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano.
Project Goals
+ Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather
+ Cooking functionality for their family farm
+ Add a workstation sink for easy food prep
+ Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection
+ Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style
Challenges & Issues
+ Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist
+ Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop
+ Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home
+ The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions
Country Kitchen Features:
Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining.
Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals.
Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty.
Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens.
Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together.
New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests.
Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks.
Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently.
Country House Living Room:
New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC.
Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling.
Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room.
New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

Modern Drain & Toilet Installation
We specialize in modern drain and toilet installation designed for reliability, efficiency, and long-term performance. Our work focuses on ensuring proper water flow, secure connections, and compliance with current plumbing standards.
From preparing the drainage system to installing the toilet unit, every step is handled with precision. We make sure that pipes are correctly aligned, seals are tight, and the system is fully tested to prevent leaks, blockages, or future issues.
Modern installations require attention to detail, especially when working with updated materials and space constraints. Our approach combines practical expertise with clean, efficient workmanship to deliver a system that functions smoothly and fits seamlessly into your space.
Whether it’s a new installation or a replacement, the goal is always the same: a durable, well-installed drainage and toilet system that performs reliably over time.
https://rcplumbingcompany.com/emergency-plumbing/

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano.
Project Goals
+ Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather
+ Cooking functionality for their family farm
+ Add a workstation sink for easy food prep
+ Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection
+ Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style
Challenges & Issues
+ Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist
+ Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop
+ Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home
+ The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions
Country Kitchen Features:
Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining.
Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals.
Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty.
Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens.
Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together.
New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests.
Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks.
Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently.
Country House Living Room:
New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC.
Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling.
Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room.
New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

Our design for the expansion and gut renovation of a small 1200 square foot house in a residential neighborhood triples is size, and reworks the living arrangement. The rear addition takes advantage of southern exposure with a "greenhouse" room that provides solar heat gain in winter, shading in summer, and a vast connection to the rear yard.
Architecturally, we used an approach we call "willful practicality." The new soaring ceiling ties together first and second floors in a dramatic volumetric expansion of space, while providing increased ventilation and daylighting from greenhouse to operable windows and skylights at the peak. Exterior pockets of space are created from curved forces pushing in from outside to form cedar clad porch and stoop.
Sustainable design is employed throughout all materials, energy systems and insulation. Masonry exterior walls and concrete floors provide thermal mass for the interior by insulating the exterior. An ERV system facilitates increased air changes and minimizes changes to the interior air temperature. Energy and water saving features and renewable, non-toxic materal selections are important aspects of the house design. Environmental community issues are addressed with a drywell in the side yard to mitigate rain runoff into the town sewer system. The long sloping south facing roof is in anticipation of future solar panels, with the standing seam metal roof providing anchoring opportunities for the panels.
The exterior walls are clad in stucco, cedar, and cement-fiber panels defining different areas of the house. Closed cell spray insulation is applied to exterior walls and roof, giving the house an "air-tight" seal against air infiltration and a high R-value. The ERV system provides the ventilation needed with this tight envelope. The interior comfort level and economizing are the beneficial results of the building methods and systems employed in the house.
Photographer: Peter Kubilus

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano.
Project Goals
+ Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather
+ Cooking functionality for their family farm
+ Add a workstation sink for easy food prep
+ Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection
+ Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style
Challenges & Issues
+ Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist
+ Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop
+ Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home
+ The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions
Country Kitchen Features:
Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining.
Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals.
Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty.
Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens.
Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together.
New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests.
Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks.
Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently.
Country House Living Room:
New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC.
Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling.
Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room.
New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

This south facing lakefront condo unit our clients purchased, with its terrace and solaria overlooking the water, was virtually in its original state, never having been renovated. Upon beginning construction, the space was completely opened to the stunning view. A contemporary aesthetic was created while implementing warmth with the choice of materials. With this openness came a new set of issues: mechanical travel and connection to existing runs, all inside a typical concrete condo structure. What we think is a true example of design complexity rendering simplicity.
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