Before the transformation, this bath was dark, dated and trimmed with brass. We gave this space a facelift with all new tile, Lennon granite, an all new shower with bench and accent tile, free standing tub and new satin nickel trim. Now, it is modern, light and bright! Design by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

No more orange wood... There was so much cherry and fir throughout the main floor, the color was distracting and dated, as was the older fireplace surround and flanking shelves. The clients wished to modernize the aesthetic, update and improve the appliances (with a fully plumbed espresso machine), and lighten the visual load in the family room. To dramatically change the scale of an architectural element, the space still needed to feel livable. A larger fireplace profile, larger appliances, and a larger island were all key considerations for the final look and balance of the project.

It wasn’t necessary to overthink things when Axis Mundi designed interiors for an apartment at Brooklyn’s glass-sheathed 1 Grand Army Plaza, the luxury building by Richard Meier already endowed with all the “starchitect” bells and whistles, as well as drop-dead stunning views of Brooklyn, the harbor and Prospect Park. What did require considerable aptitude was to strike the right balance between respect for these assets, particularly the panoramas, and livability. The all-white scheme doesn’t just complement Meier’s own aesthetic devotion to this purest of pure hues; it serves as a cool backdrop for the views, affording comfortable vantage points from which to enjoy them, yet not drawing attention away from the splendors of one of the world’s most distinctive boroughs. Sleek, low-lying Italian seating avoids distracting interruptions on the horizon line. But minimal color accents and pattern also sidestep what could have been a potentially antiseptic environment, making it tactile, human and luxurious. 2,200 sf Design Team: John Beckmann, Richard Rosenbloom and Nick Messerlian Vintage photography courtesy of the Ubu Gallery, New York Photography: Adriana Buffi and Fran Parente © Axis Mundi Design LLC

Great room with full re-design of kitchen and great room. New appliances, countertops, tile wood floors, new pendants, chandelier, new furniture, glass tile and all new hardware.

A kitchen within a kitchen: The island is a fully-capable, compact kitchen, all within easy reach of a the wife when her wheelchair is parked at the knee space. This is Command Central while the rest of the family has the surrounding kitchen so that everyone can cook together. Photo: Erick Mikiten, AIA

Middlefork was retained to update and revitalize this North Shore home to a family of six. The primary goal of this project was to update and expand the home's small, eat-in kitchen. The existing space was gutted and a 1,500-square-foot addition was built to house a gourmet kitchen, connected breakfast room, fireside seating, butler's pantry, and a small office. The family desired nice, timeless spaces that were also durable and family-friendly. As such, great consideration was given to the interior finishes. The 10' kitchen island, for instance, is a solid slab of white velvet quartzite, selected for its ability to withstand mustard, ketchup and finger-paint. There are shorter, walnut extensions off either end of the island that support the children's involvement in meal preparation and crafts. Low-maintenance Atlantic Blue Stone was selected for the perimeter counters. The scope of this phase grew to include re-trimming the front façade and entry to emphasize the Georgian detailing of the home. In addition, the balance of the first floor was gutted; existing plumbing and electrical systems were updated; all windows were replaced; two powder rooms were updated; a low-voltage distribution system for HDTV and audio was added; and, the interior of the home was re-trimmed. Two new patios were also added, providing outdoor areas for entertaining, dining and cooking. Tom Harris, Hedrich Blessing

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

An historic Spanish Colonial residence built in 1925 being redesigned and furnished for a modern-day Southern California family was the challenge. The interiors of the main house needed the backgrounds set and then a timeless collection created for its furnishings. Lifestyle was always a consideration as well as the interiors relating to the strong architecture of the residence. Natural colors such as terra cotta, tans, blues, greens, old red and soft vintage shades were incorporated throughout. Our goal was to maintain the historic character of the residence combining design elements and materials considered classic in Southern California Spanish Colonial architecture. Natural fiber textiles, leathers and woven linens were the predominated upholstery choices. A 7000 square foot basement was added and furnished to provide a gym, Star Wars theater, game areas, spa area and a simulator for indoor golf and other sports. Antiques were selected throughout the world, fine art from major galleries, custom reproductions fabricated in the old-world style. Collectible carpets were selected for the reclaimed hardwood flooring in all the areas. An estancia and garden over the basement were created and furnished with old world designs and materials as reclaimed woods, terra cotta and French limestone flooring.

It wasn’t necessary to overthink things when Axis Mundi designed interiors for an apartment at Brooklyn’s glass-sheathed 1 Grand Army Plaza, the luxury building by Richard Meier already endowed with all the “starchitect” bells and whistles, as well as drop-dead stunning views of Brooklyn, the harbor and Prospect Park. What did require considerable aptitude was to strike the right balance between respect for these assets, particularly the panoramas, and livability. The all-white scheme doesn’t just complement Meier’s own aesthetic devotion to this purest of pure hues; it serves as a cool backdrop for the views, affording comfortable vantage points from which to enjoy them, yet not drawing attention away from the splendors of one of the world’s most distinctive boroughs. Sleek, low-lying Italian seating avoids distracting interruptions on the horizon line. But minimal color accents and pattern also sidestep what could have been a potentially antiseptic environment, making it tactile, human and luxurious. 2,200 sf Design Team: John Beckmann, Richard Rosenbloom and Nick Messerlian Vintage photography courtesy of the Ubu Gallery, New York Photography: Adriana Buffi and Fran Parente © Axis Mundi Design LLC

Jennifer Cheung
Example of a large french country backyard patio design in Los Angeles

It wasn’t necessary to overthink things when Axis Mundi designed interiors for an apartment at Brooklyn’s glass-sheathed 1 Grand Army Plaza, the luxury building by Richard Meier already endowed with all the “starchitect” bells and whistles, as well as drop-dead stunning views of Brooklyn, the harbor and Prospect Park. What did require considerable aptitude was to strike the right balance between respect for these assets, particularly the panoramas, and livability. The all-white scheme doesn’t just complement Meier’s own aesthetic devotion to this purest of pure hues; it serves as a cool backdrop for the views, affording comfortable vantage points from which to enjoy them, yet not drawing attention away from the splendors of one of the world’s most distinctive boroughs. Sleek, low-lying Italian seating avoids distracting interruptions on the horizon line. But minimal color accents and pattern also sidestep what could have been a potentially antiseptic environment, making it tactile, human and luxurious. 2,200 sf Design Team: John Beckmann, Richard Rosenbloom and Nick Messerlian Vintage photography courtesy of the Ubu Gallery, New York Photography: Adriana Buffi and Fran Parente © Axis Mundi Design LLC

It wasn’t necessary to overthink things when Axis Mundi designed interiors for an apartment at Brooklyn’s glass-sheathed 1 Grand Army Plaza, the luxury building by Richard Meier already endowed with all the “starchitect” bells and whistles, as well as drop-dead stunning views of Brooklyn, the harbor and Prospect Park. What did require considerable aptitude was to strike the right balance between respect for these assets, particularly the panoramas, and livability. The all-white scheme doesn’t just complement Meier’s own aesthetic devotion to this purest of pure hues; it serves as a cool backdrop for the views, affording comfortable vantage points from which to enjoy them, yet not drawing attention away from the splendors of one of the world’s most distinctive boroughs. Sleek, low-lying Italian seating avoids distracting interruptions on the horizon line. But minimal color accents and pattern also sidestep what could have been a potentially antiseptic environment, making it tactile, human and luxurious. 2,200 sf Design Team: John Beckmann, Richard Rosenbloom and Nick Messerlian Vintage photography coursety of the Ubu Gallery, New York Photography: Adriana Buffi and Fran Parente © Axis Mundi Design LLC

I worked with CAD Development to select the cabinetry and stone/tile for this lovely new construction home in Westchester County. I was then hired by the homeowners to decorate the interiors, It was a great job from start to finish! ND Interiors is a full-service interior design studio based in Westchester County, New York. Our goal is to create timelessly stylish spaces that are in equal parts beautiful and functional. Principal Designer Nancy Davilman embraces the philosophy that every good design choice comes from the dynamic relationship between client and designer. Recognized for her keen eye and wide-ranging experience, Nancy builds every project upon these fundamentals: An understanding of the client’s lifestyle at home;. An appreciation for the client’s tastes, goals, time frame and budget; and Consideration of the character and distinctiveness of the home. The result is timelessly stylish spaces that are in equal parts beautiful and functional -- often featuring unexpected elements and one-of-a-kind finds from Nancy’s vast network of sources. ND Interiors welcomes projects of all sizes.

Our clients wanted the ultimate modern farmhouse custom dream home. They found property in the Santa Rosa Valley with an existing house on 3 ½ acres. They could envision a new home with a pool, a barn, and a place to raise horses. JRP and the clients went all in, sparing no expense. Thus, the old house was demolished and the couple’s dream home began to come to fruition. The result is a simple, contemporary layout with ample light thanks to the open floor plan. When it comes to a modern farmhouse aesthetic, it’s all about neutral hues, wood accents, and furniture with clean lines. Every room is thoughtfully crafted with its own personality. Yet still reflects a bit of that farmhouse charm. Their considerable-sized kitchen is a union of rustic warmth and industrial simplicity. The all-white shaker cabinetry and subway backsplash light up the room. All white everything complimented by warm wood flooring and matte black fixtures. The stunning custom Raw Urth reclaimed steel hood is also a star focal point in this gorgeous space. Not to mention the wet bar area with its unique open shelves above not one, but two integrated wine chillers. It’s also thoughtfully positioned next to the large pantry with a farmhouse style staple: a sliding barn door. The master bathroom is relaxation at its finest. Monochromatic colors and a pop of pattern on the floor lend a fashionable look to this private retreat. Matte black finishes stand out against a stark white backsplash, complement charcoal veins in the marble looking countertop, and is cohesive with the entire look. The matte black shower units really add a dramatic finish to this luxurious large walk-in shower. Photographer: Andrew - OpenHouse VC

The back of this 1920s brick and siding Cape Cod gets a compact addition to create a new Family room, open Kitchen, Covered Entry, and Master Bedroom Suite above. European-styling of the interior was a consideration throughout the design process, as well as with the materials and finishes. The project includes all cabinetry, built-ins, shelving and trim work (even down to the towel bars!) custom made on site by the home owner. Photography by Kmiecik Imagery

ND Interiors is a full-service interior design studio based in Westchester County, New York. Our goal is to create timelessly stylish spaces that are in equal parts beautiful and functional. Principal Designer Nancy Davilman embraces the philosophy that every good design choice comes from the dynamic relationship between client and designer. Recognized for her keen eye and wide-ranging experience, Nancy builds every project upon these fundamentals: An understanding of the client’s lifestyle at home;. An appreciation for the client’s tastes, goals, time frame and budget; and Consideration of the character and distinctiveness of the home. The result is timelessly stylish spaces that are in equal parts beautiful and functional -- often featuring unexpected elements and one-of-a-kind finds from Nancy’s vast network of sources. ND Interiors welcomes projects of all sizes.

Building a Dream Backyard When this homeowner started the design process of a new backyard, Braen Supply was immediately there to supply all the stone materials. The home was part of a new development, so the challenge was to make the home stand out while still addressing specific areas of the existing backyard, such as the steep grade. Working With the Experts Taking the steep grade into consideration, moss rock boulders were selected to create stairs down to the lower area of the backyard where the fire pit sits. The grade of the backyard also allowed for the infinity pool, full color bluestone pattern was selected as the veneer for the back wall of the infinity pool. Braen Supply chose Tennessee gray and bluestone to create a seamless transition from the front of the house to the back of the house. Although they are two different stones, they work nicely together to complete the overall design and tone of the home. It all came together and made the perfect backyard. Materials Used: Belgium Blocks Full Color Bluestone Pattern Bluestone Caps Tennessee Gray Irregular Moss Rock Boulders Full Color Bluestone Irregular Kearney Stone Steps Granite Mosaic Veneer Completed Areas: Front Walkway & Porch Driveway Edging Backyard Walkways Pool Patio & Coping Pool Water Features Fireplace Hearth & Mantal Wading Pool Raised Hot Tub

Designed and built in conjunction with Freemont #2, this home pays homage to surrounding architecture, including that of St. James Lutheran Church. The home is comprised of stately, well-proportioned rooms; significant architectural detailing; appropriate spaces for today's active family; and sophisticated wiring to service any HD video, audio, lighting, HVAC and / or security needs. The focal point of the first floor is the sweeping curved staircase, ascending through all three floors of the home and topped with skylights. Surrounding this staircase on the main floor are the formal living and dining rooms, as well as the beautifully-detailed Butler's Pantry. A gourmet kitchen and great room, designed to receive considerable eastern light, is at the rear of the house, connected to the lower level family room by a rear staircase. Four bedrooms (two en-suite) make up the second floor, with a fifth bedroom on the third floor and a sixth bedroom in the lower level. A third floor recreation room is at the top of the staircase, adjacent to the 400SF roof deck. A connected, heated garage is accessible from the rear staircase of the home, as well as the rear yard and garage roof deck. This home went under contract after being on the MLS for one day. Steve Hall, Hedrich Blessing

The back of this 1920s brick and siding Cape Cod gets a compact addition to create a new Family room, open Kitchen, Covered Entry, and Master Bedroom Suite above. European-styling of the interior was a consideration throughout the design process, as well as with the materials and finishes. The project includes all cabinetry, built-ins, shelving and trim work (even down to the towel bars!) custom made on site by the home owner. Photography by Kmiecik Imagery