Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall. The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home. Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup! One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space. The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back. We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed. Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it! We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake! Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs. We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together. We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown. Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility. The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels. The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy. This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Framed by sliding glass doors and recessed perimeter lighting, the kitchen features a U-shaped configuration optimized for uninterrupted countertop access and efficient work triangle flow. Upper and lower cabinetry is built in a traditional inset style with flat-panel fronts, painted white for visual brightness. A central island painted in charcoal grey adds tonal contrast and doubles as a compact breakfast bar, supported by bracketed end panels and under-counter outlets. Marble with strong veining spans the backsplash, wrap-around counter edges, and the full height behind the custom vent hood, anchoring the cooking zone with visual texture. A trio of pendant lights with exposed filament bulbs and vintage-style shades illuminates the island workspace. Glass-front display cabinets and soft-closing storage drawers are integrated throughout for both function and finish consistency. Wide-plank hardwood flooring grounds the space and adds warmth to the crisp cabinetry and reflective surface palette.

Set amidst the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. The legendary Tahoe lifestyle includes world-class skiing, championship golf, mountain biking, water sports and year-round fishing. Established in 2002 and located on a private 270-foot stretch of white sand beach, the intimate lakefront community of Tonopalo is truly situated in an irreplaceable location. Each of the 19 full-sized fully furnished, wired and accessorized homes consists of three and four bedrooms. These three and four bedroom homes (1,700-3,000 sq. ft.) are a private haven that bring together both simplicity and the ultimate in comfort. All of the homes encompass an extensive living and dining area, spectacular fireplace, double master bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and all private residences have lake views and outdoor patios and/or decks. Owners can expect unparalleled personalized service and access to a million dollar resort home and become part of an intimate community. Home ownership is divided into 1/7th chapters.

Photography by Ken Wyner 2101 Connecticut Avenue (c.1928), an 8-story brick and limestone Beaux Arts style building with spacious apartments, is said to have been “the finest apartment house to appear in Washington between the two World Wars.” (James M. Goode, Best Addresses, 1988.) As advertised for rent in 1928, the apartments were designed “to incorporate many details that would aid the residents in establishing a home atmosphere, one possessing charm and dignity usually found only in a private house… the character and tenancy (being) assured through careful selection of guests.” Home to Senators, Ambassadors, a Vice President and a Supreme Court Justice as well as numerous Washington socialites, the building still stands as one of the undisputed “best addresses” in Washington, DC.) So well laid-out was this gracious 3,000 sf apartment that the basic floor plan remains unchanged from the original architect’s 1927 design. The organizing feature was, and continues to be, the grand “gallery” space in the center of the unit. Every room in the apartment can be accessed via the gallery, thus preserving it as the centerpiece of the “charm and dignity” which the original design intended. Programmatic modifications consisted of the addition of a small powder room off of the foyer, and the conversion of a corner “sun room” into a room for meditation and study. The apartment received a thorough updating of all systems, services and finishes, including a new kitchen and new bathrooms, several new built-in cabinetry units, and the consolidation of numerous small closets and passageways into more accessible and efficient storage spaces.

The Dental Studio is a highly intricate building that uniquely links two separate stands of two neighbourhoods and straddling a four metre broad municipal servitude. The western part of the neighbourhood is an office precinct consisting of low scaled office buildings set around a communal access street and parking. It was designed for a leading dental practice with state of the art equipment and progressive philosophy of service. It presents itself as an uncomplicated rectangular structural mass that elegantly characterise an intersection of a major neighbourhood boulevard and is notable along the eastern end with an upright circulation tower. The western end on the other hand, is characterised with vertical solar control screens which serve a dual purpose, that is, sifting low down western sun rays as well as giving a serene appeal to the mass. The daring spotless form of the building is a truthful reflection of the nature of the sterile dental environment that is housed within. This houses the central vestibule and reception with a visual interface as well as pedestrian movements along the edge of the building. Healing and healthcare is a paradox that requires architectural intervention. It is this same paradox that informed measures taken towards developing this project as a revised prototype. Exacerbated by the need to research a building type that can promote healing environment, the Dental Studio attempts to create a closer harmony with nature through views, landscape and daylight.

We were hired to finish the basement of our clients cottage in Haliburton. The house is a woodsy craftsman style. Basements can be dark so we used pickled pine to brighten up this 3000 sf space which allowed us to remain consistent with the vibe of the overall cottage. We delineated the large open space in to four functions - a Family Room (with projector screen TV viewing above the fireplace and a reading niche); a Game Room with access to large doors open to the lake; a Guest Bedroom with sitting nook; and an Exercise Room. Glass was used in the french and barn doors to allow light to penetrate each space. Shelving units were used to provide some visual separation between the Family Room and Game Room. The fireplace referenced the upstairs fireplace with added inspiration from a photo our clients saw and loved. We provided all construction docs and furnishings will installed soon.

The Dental Studio is a highly intricate building that uniquely links two separate stands of two neighbourhoods and straddling a four metre broad municipal servitude. The western part of the neighbourhood is an office precinct consisting of low scaled office buildings set around a communal access street and parking. It was designed for a leading dental practice with state of the art equipment and progressive philosophy of service. It presents itself as an uncomplicated rectangular structural mass that elegantly characterise an intersection of a major neighbourhood boulevard and is notable along the eastern end with an upright circulation tower. The western end on the other hand, is characterised with vertical solar control screens which serve a dual purpose, that is, sifting low down western sun rays as well as giving a serene appeal to the mass. The daring spotless form of the building is a truthful reflection of the nature of the sterile dental environment that is housed within. This houses the central vestibule and reception with a visual interface as well as pedestrian movements along the edge of the building. Healing and healthcare is a paradox that requires architectural intervention. It is this same paradox that informed measures taken towards developing this project as a revised prototype. Exacerbated by the need to research a building type that can promote healing environment, the Dental Studio attempts to create a closer harmony with nature through views, landscape and daylight.

This unique opportunity to design a new home in Millport was one which JAM Architects relished. The location of the site on a hill on the outskirts of the village presented an opportunity to design a new two bedroom home taking advantage of the views of the ocean. The unusual floorplan design with a ‘kink’ at the centre point of the building is as a result of this with the front of the home orientated to address the street and the rear half positioned to ensure the best views from the corner window in the livingroom and the master bedroom window. As a result of a recent accident our client for this project was unfortunately left with some mobility issues and our brief was therefore to design a two bedroom home with all the primary accomodation on the ground floor, with a studio space, guest bedroom and guest shower room on the first floor. The ground floor consists of a open plan kitchen, dining and living room with direct access to a generous outside patio area. In addition to this living space there is also a utility room, w.c, master bedroom and ensuite bathroom. On the first floor our client was also keen to take advantage of the sea views from this elevated position and a sheletered balcony area has been incorporated adjacent to the studio space.

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients. We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space. To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space. The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.

This unique opportunity to design a new home in Millport was one which JAM Architects relished. The location of the site on a hill on the outskirts of the village presented an opportunity to design a new two bedroom home taking advantage of the views of the ocean. The unusual floorplan design with a ‘kink’ at the centre point of the building is as a result of this with the front of the home orientated to address the street and the rear half positioned to ensure the best views from the corner window in the livingroom and the master bedroom window. As a result of a recent accident our client for this project was unfortunately left with some mobility issues and our brief was therefore to design a two bedroom home with all the primary accomodation on the ground floor, with a studio space, guest bedroom and guest shower room on the first floor. The ground floor consists of a open plan kitchen, dining and living room with direct access to a generous outside patio area. In addition to this living space there is also a utility room, w.c, master bedroom and ensuite bathroom. On the first floor our client was also keen to take advantage of the sea views from this elevated position and a sheletered balcony area has been incorporated adjacent to the studio space.

We were hired to finish the basement of our clients cottage in Haliburton. The house is a woodsy craftsman style. Basements can be dark so we used pickled pine to brighten up this 3000 sf space which allowed us to remain consistent with the vibe of the overall cottage. We delineated the large open space in to four functions - a Family Room (with projector screen TV viewing above the fireplace and a reading niche); a Game Room with access to large doors open to the lake; a Guest Bedroom with sitting nook; and an Exercise Room. Glass was used in the french and barn doors to allow light to penetrate each space. Shelving units were used to provide some visual separation between the Family Room and Game Room. The fireplace referenced the upstairs fireplace with added inspiration from a photo our clients saw and loved. We provided all construction docs and furnishings will installed soon.

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients. We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space. To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space. The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.

It was our pleasure at Green Solar Technologies to install solar for Calvin of Savannah, MO. His 4.64 kW PV system consisted of 16 SolarWorld modules and a SolarEdge inverter system with 24/7 monitoring access. GST assisted with the solar consultation and was able to engineer just the right system to help Calvin become energy independent. We even equipped Calvin with all of the applicable rebates and incentives to help him save more on his electricity costs. With a solar energy system and all the freely flowing solar energy available, you can save hundreds, if not thousands over the course of the year without having to do anything differently. It’s a simple and effective way to give back to the planet, reduce your carbon footprint, and start building a nest egg for the future. Once you experience the benefits of your solar power system, you won’t go back to utility company dependency again.

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients. We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space. To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space. The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.

This unique opportunity to design a new home in Millport was one which JAM Architects relished. The location of the site on a hill on the outskirts of the village presented an opportunity to design a new two bedroom home taking advantage of the views of the ocean. The unusual floorplan design with a ‘kink’ at the centre point of the building is as a result of this with the front of the home orientated to address the street and the rear half positioned to ensure the best views from the corner window in the livingroom and the master bedroom window. As a result of a recent accident our client for this project was unfortunately left with some mobility issues and our brief was therefore to design a two bedroom home with all the primary accomodation on the ground floor, with a studio space, guest bedroom and guest shower room on the first floor. The ground floor consists of a open plan kitchen, dining and living room with direct access to a generous outside patio area. In addition to this living space there is also a utility room, w.c, master bedroom and ensuite bathroom. On the first floor our client was also keen to take advantage of the sea views from this elevated position and a sheletered balcony area has been incorporated adjacent to the studio space.

Joey desired a spacious and functional kitchen suitable for cooking and entertaining. He envisioned an open layout with ample seating around an enlarged island, improved storage, and a dedicated pantry. To fulfill this vision, significant changes were made to the existing kitchen layout. The original island was replaced with a larger, dual-sided island featuring white shaker cabinets and a matching granite/quartz countertop. An 80-inch countertop overhang was installed, supported by sturdy legs and brackets, providing additional seating space. A pantry was seamlessly added into the adjacent office space, complete with new framing, drywall, texture, and pocket doors for easy access. Contemporary pendant lights illuminate the expanded island and dining areas, while recessed lighting enhances pantry visibility. Sleek floating shelves were added for extra storage and visual interest. Matching luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed in impacted areas to maintain consistency and elegance. This remodel exceeded expectations, resulting in an inviting and cohesive kitchen space. Thoughtful integration of storage, contemporary elements, and an expanded layout has greatly enhanced both functionality and appearance.

Joey desired a spacious and functional kitchen suitable for cooking and entertaining. He envisioned an open layout with ample seating around an enlarged island, improved storage, and a dedicated pantry. To fulfill this vision, significant changes were made to the existing kitchen layout. The original island was replaced with a larger, dual-sided island featuring white shaker cabinets and a matching granite/quartz countertop. An 80-inch countertop overhang was installed, supported by sturdy legs and brackets, providing additional seating space. A pantry was seamlessly added into the adjacent office space, complete with new framing, drywall, texture, and pocket doors for easy access. Contemporary pendant lights illuminate the expanded island and dining areas, while recessed lighting enhances pantry visibility. Sleek floating shelves were added for extra storage and visual interest. Matching luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed in impacted areas to maintain consistency and elegance. This remodel exceeded expectations, resulting in an inviting and cohesive kitchen space. Thoughtful integration of storage, contemporary elements, and an expanded layout has greatly enhanced both functionality and appearance.

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients. We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space. To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space. The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.

Joey desired a spacious and functional kitchen suitable for cooking and entertaining. He envisioned an open layout with ample seating around an enlarged island, improved storage, and a dedicated pantry. To fulfill this vision, significant changes were made to the existing kitchen layout. The original island was replaced with a larger, dual-sided island featuring white shaker cabinets and a matching granite/quartz countertop. An 80-inch countertop overhang was installed, supported by sturdy legs and brackets, providing additional seating space. A pantry was seamlessly added into the adjacent office space, complete with new framing, drywall, texture, and pocket doors for easy access. Contemporary pendant lights illuminate the expanded island and dining areas, while recessed lighting enhances pantry visibility. Sleek floating shelves were added for extra storage and visual interest. Matching luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed in impacted areas to maintain consistency and elegance. This remodel exceeded expectations, resulting in an inviting and cohesive kitchen space. Thoughtful integration of storage, contemporary elements, and an expanded layout has greatly enhanced both functionality and appearance.