Ernesto Santalla was approached to create a new home for two Washington, DC lawyers wishing to downsize their living space. The move took them from a row house in Washington's historic Dupont Circle neighborhood to a two bedroom apartment in the vibrant, up-and-coming U Street Corridor. Our task was to transform a rather plain and generic apartment into a custom, sophisticated space in a few strategic moves. Ceiling details serve to define functional areas of the living space without creating divisions. Changing some doors from wood to frosted glass, creates a sense of continuity between spaces, and allows light to travel between spaces. Lighting was inserted strategically, to enhance certain functions of the home. The kitchen was partially enclosed with a plane of frosted glass to create visual separation from the main living space while still allowing natural light to filter in from the expansive wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. Color was used to reinforce the architectural intent and simplify spaces, such as the entry, which as many doors and frames. Furniture was selected to blend with the client's collection of heirloom pieces, creating a sophisticated juxtaposition. Statement pieces like a ceiling light from Viabizzuno create impact while maintaining the visual simplicity of our minimal approach. This project was featured in DC Modern Luxury. https://www.modernluxury.com/washington-dc/story/grand-nest Photography by Geoffrey Hodgdon

This client came to us wanting to enhance their existing space by using some creative finishes for walls. They hoped to make the home feel more urban, rustic and modern as opposed to the traditional architectural style of the structure but did not know how to accomplish this transition. Upon our arrival it was noted that all walls had been painted white which was determined too harsh and did not achieve the modern feel the homeowner had hoped to evoke. The space was softened by using a subtle and fresh color palette with one accent color for impact. Teal was the color selected to create a continuous thread of pop in varying degrees in each room which included the Entry Hall, Dining Room and Living Room. Touches of black were injected into each space due to the client’s previous purchases of a drum fixture for the living room and black dining table; both gave direction on scale and style. The Entry Hall was made powerfully impactful as someone enters the home by taking its cue from the abstract art selected for the Dining Room. A faux concrete wall was created with the use of artistically combined colors. In the Dining Room, the use of classic chairs are successfully made modern by upholstering in teal leather which added both continuity and unexpected interest next to the velvet Greek Key pattern found on host chairs. In the Living Room custom upholstered sofa and chairs are grounded by a rug that brings all colors together. A unique copper rivet finish was applied in the niches that flank the fireplace as a contrast to whimsical amber crystal mini chandeliers hung over modern consoles that display simple yet exciting teal bowls. The final furnishings, art and accessories ultimately brought the entire home together in a rustic, modern way that is warm and inviting reflecting the unique personality of the people who live there.

This luxury modern bathroom and walk-in closet remodel in Anaheim by Revival Contractors of Orange County showcases refined minimalism and coastal sophistication. The design features large-format porcelain tile walls and flooring in warm neutral tones that create a seamless flow between the bath and dressing area. The floating double vanity with a quartz countertop and integrated under-cabinet lighting provides a sleek, airy aesthetic. A frameless glass shower enclosure highlights the stone texture and spacious layout, enhanced by LED vanity lighting that adds a soft, contemporary glow. The adjoining walk-in closet continues the luxurious feel with custom built-in shelving and open storage, perfect for functionality and organization. Every detail—from lighting and tile selection to fixture finishes—was thoughtfully chosen to reflect a bright, modern, spa-inspired retreat that’s both elegant and practical.

The owner's initial goal was to remove the soffits and update their older kitchen. At the initial meeting, with the owner's, we checked the soffits and found that they held structural beams and could not be removed. The owner's chose the plan to continue with the update of their kitchen. We began by laying out, and framing the new location of the doorway, to the dining room, to increase the length of the wall and accommodate their larger, new, commercial range. Next, a wire chase was installed from behind the television into the base cabinet, to enclose the wiring for a more appealing, clean look. New recessed lights, under cabinet lights, and pendant lights illuminate the entire new kitchen, accenting beauty as well as function. Note the brick pattern, glass, Subway tile back splash, enhancing the wall over the range. Crown molding was installed to finish the ceiling perimeter. New hardwood Oak flooring was supplied, installed, and finished. The owner's enjoyed our team of craftsmen as well as the new finished kitchen. General Contractor / Remodel: ED Enterprises, Inc. Michael Alan Kaskel Photography

When marrying two Upper West Side apartments to accommodate a growing family’s needs, the team at Axis Mundi was faced with a conundrum: how to distinctly delineate public and private spaces without sacrificing the greater openness conferred by the expansion. So they limned that line with a six-foot square sliding glass door, which enables parents to block out the sounds of rambunctious youth emanating from private quarters, while also shielding sleeping children from the later night activities of their parents—all of it without obscuring light or affecting the impression of open-plan living. Continuity of materials—hand-scraped walnut plank floors, a custom bamboo veneer kitchen and living room shelving—enhances the sense of sweeping, loft-like spaces. Materials also create intriguing textural contrasts, as in a powder room where a high-tech glass sink and black stainless steel penny tile is softened by a leather door with contrast stitching one must open to enter the space. Highlights: A pair of Gio Ponti lounge chairs, black glass rock tables and a William Yeoward area rug from the Rug Company (living room), sliding glass shower door from Magnum in the master bath. Total Area: 1950 sf Design Team: John Beckmann, Richard Rosenbloom and Nick Messerlian Photography: Mikiko Kikuyama Contractor: Steve Smith © Axis Mundi Design LLC

Photography by Caryn B. Davis Located in the Cornfield Point area of Old Saybrook along Long Island Sound, this project brought a classic, yet forgotten beach house back to life. Through a little detective work and some creative ingenuity, we restored and enhanced the exterior to it’s former glory and transformed the interior to a highly efficient and functional home all the while uplifting its quaint cottage charm. On the exterior, we recreated a wonderful, airy front porch with cozy bench seats that look out to the water. The white cedar shingle siding is pre-bleached with a subtle flair at the bottom and a delicate break at mid-elevation. The asphalt shingles are not only beautifully matched with the siding, but offer superior reflective qualities to dissipate the heat of the summer sun. On the interior, we joined the front seasonal porch with the family room to form a larger, open living and dining space with paneled walls and ceilings anchored by the original round stone fireplace. In the rear, we carefully crafted a galley kitchen and laundry space with an adjacent first floor master suite. The diminutive house and property posed multiple practical and regulatory challenges which were overcome by a strong team effort, due diligence, and a commitment to the process. John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

This client came to us wanting to enhance their existing space by using some creative finishes for walls. They hoped to make the home feel more modern with an urban rustic vibe as opposed to the traditional architectural style of the structure but did not know how to accomplish this transition. Upon our arrival it was noted that all walls had been painted white which was determined too harsh and did not achieve the modern feel the homeowner had hoped to evoke. The space was softened by using a subtle and fresh color palette with one accent color for impact. Teal was the color selected to create a continuous thread of pop in varying degrees in each room which included the Entry Hall, Dining Room and Living Room. Touches of black were injected into each space due to the client’s previous purchases of a drum fixture for the living room and black dining table; both gave direction on scale and style. The Entry Hall was given powerful impact as someone enters the home by taking its cue from the abstract art selected for the Dining Room. A faux concrete wall was created with the use of artistically combined colors. In the Dining Room, the use of classic chairs are successfully made modern by upholstering in teal leather which added both continuity and unexpected interest next to the velvet Greek Key pattern found on host chairs. In the Living Room custom upholstered sofa and chairs are grounded by a rug that brings all colors together. A unique copper rivet finish was applied in the niches that flank the fireplace as a contrast to whimsical amber crystal mini chandeliers hung over modern consoles that display simple yet exciting teal bowls. The final furnishings, art and accessories ultimately brought the entire home together in a rustic, modern way that is warm and inviting reflecting the unique personality of the people who live there.

Fulfilling the promise of their corporate mission of “Quality without Compromise” Fabrica manufactures carpets and rugs for the most demanding segments of the high-end style residential market. Fabrica's distinctive broadloom carpet, custom area rugs, and hand-tufted rugs have earned Fabrica an international reputation for exquisite style and exceptional performance. Over their 40-year history of selling top quality floor coverings, Sarmazian Bros. Ltd.'s reputation for high caliber products and service is continually being enhanced by the testimonials of its customers. As a family-owned business, the Sarmazian brothers and their staff pride themselves on the ability to provide the best end-to-end purchasing experience in the market. New flooring is the foundation of personal expression in any home; at the same time, it is one of the most costly investments. This is why Sarmazian's takes the extra time to supply the expert knowledge, exceptional pricing, and professional installation enabling to transfer optimum satisfaction to the customer. Sarmazian's award-winning showrooms allow the imagination to go wild. The spacious design and interactive layouts let customers browse, touch, and feel the extensive selection of merchandise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Because Sarmazian Bros. deals directly with the manufacturers and installers we offer quicker service, better support, and pass on the savings directly to you, the customer.

This beautifully designed modern farmhouse kitchen in Redditch perfectly blends timeless character with contemporary functionality. Featuring a classic shaker door in the ever-popular Mussel finish, the space feels warm, inviting, and effortlessly elegant. Carefully designed, supplied, and installed by our team, this kitchen showcases how thoughtful planning can transform a home. The soft neutral cabinetry is paired with stunning quartz worktops, creating a light and cohesive look while offering durability for everyday living. The matching upstands and surfaces flow seamlessly throughout the space, enhancing the clean and refined aesthetic. Top-of-the-range appliances have been integrated throughout, ensuring the kitchen not only looks exceptional but performs to the highest standard. Every detail has been considered, from clever pull-out storage solutions that maximise space to practical layouts that make day-to-day use effortless. To complement the kitchen, a matching boot room was designed in the same Mussel shaker style, creating continuity throughout the home. This additional space provides both practicality and style, offering smart storage for busy family life while maintaining the same high-end finish. The result is a beautifully balanced kitchen that combines modern convenience with classic farmhouse charm perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.

Bright and Inviting Entryway Transformation This beautifully remodeled entryway creates a stunning first impression with its warm and welcoming design. The refreshed staircase features elegant dark-stained handrails and newel posts paired with crisp white spindles, creating a classic yet modern contrast. A neutral gray stair runner softens the space, adding both comfort and sophistication underfoot. The two-tone wood and white combination continues throughout the railings, seamlessly tying the upper and lower levels together. Natural light floods the space through the glass-paneled front door, enhancing the airy feel of the soft gray walls and white trim. Thoughtful touches, like the round mirror and simple greenery, add charm and functionality without overwhelming the space. This entryway remodel not only updates the aesthetic but also improves flow and safety, offering a timeless look that complements the rest of the home. A perfect balance of beauty and function, this foyer invites guests in style.

This sleek and neutral style bathroom gives you cleaner showering and tubbing while probing to eliminate that last little space at the back of the tub where mold and mildew can grow. The shower enclosure attaches directly to the tub, so you no longer have a gap between the wall and the tub, where grimy soap scum can build up. The master bathroom remodels a seamless wall tile matched nicely with dark wood tone cabinets. An undermount sink is combined with an undermount tub, creating continuity in the design of this spa-like retreat, and it is cost-effective too. Overall, the space looks shiny because of chrome hardware fixtures, making the retreat seem endlessly modern. The guest bathroom uses brushed nickel hardware and fixtures that give the space a subtler-softer look with white wave wall tiles which are elegant and graceful additions that enhance the natural light that differs from the masters' bathroom. And the cabinets in the guest bathroom are clean and simple with shaker finishes-edges.

In this recently completed project, we reimagined the interiors of a former architect’s DC condo, curating a stylish and functional living and dining experience. The open-plan layout now features a cohesive blend of form and function furniture selections curated exclusively, and the dining space is anchored by stainless steel-framed custom DC photograph. This dining area also seating five, and sits perpendicular to a new window-wall bar cabinet we supplied, accompanied by coordinating bar stools for casual entertaining Just beyond, the terrace was upgraded with elegant evergreen planters, a propane firepit, and a tilting umbrella that echoes the indoor-outdoor harmony. Evening ambiance will be enhanced with an LED strip light installed beneath the parapet for a warm, glowing atmosphere. The transformation continues into the private spaces, where the primary suite now boasts a chic sitting room outfitted with a sleeper sofa, swivel chairs, curated art, and built-in cabinetry for added utility. The primary bedroom itself is wrapped in serene textures and tones, featuring a plush gray velvet bed, coordinating nightstands, stone-and-crystal lamps, and a soft area rug that grounds the space in comfort. Additional rooms in the condo received updates as well—those will be revealed soon in the next design showcase. Stay tuned!

The Impressive Studio City Mid-Century Exterior Masterpiece was a comprehensive interior and exterior remodel, revitalizing a dated property into a stunning modern sanctuary. The homeowners sought to blend mid-century design with a contemporary twist, emphasizing clean lines, natural materials, and expansive views. We transformed the exterior with a sleek wood-paneled entrance, smooth stucco walls, and minimalist landscaping, creating an inviting curb appeal that reflects the home's architectural roots. Large, custom glass doors seamlessly connect the indoors with the outdoors, bathing the interior in natural light and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Studio City landscape. Inside, we continued the mid-century theme by selecting warm wood flooring, an open-concept layout, and modern fixtures that merge style with comfort. The homeowners wanted a space that felt sophisticated yet warm, and our team worked closely with them throughout the project to ensure every detail met their vision. As a Studio City-based company, we took pride in sourcing local materials and embracing the area's aesthetic. This remodel has resulted in a mid-century masterpiece that not only enhances the home’s functionality but also stands as a true statement piece in the neighborhood.

The owner's initial goal was to remove the soffits and update their older kitchen. At the initial meeting, with the owner's, we checked the soffits and found that they held structural beams and could not be removed. The owner's chose the plan to continue with the update of their kitchen. We began by laying out, and framing the new location of the doorway, to the dining room, to increase the length of the wall and accommodate their larger, new, commercial range. Next, a wire chase was installed from behind the television into the base cabinet, to enclose the wiring for a more appealing, clean look. New recessed lights, under cabinet lights, and pendant lights illuminate the entire new kitchen, accenting beauty as well as function. Note the brick pattern, glass, Subway tile back splash, enhancing the wall over the range. Crown molding was installed to finish the ceiling perimeter. New hardwood Oak flooring was supplied, installed, and finished. The owner's enjoyed our team of craftsmen as well as the new finished kitchen. General Contractor / Remodel: ED Enterprises, Inc. Michael Alan Kaskel Photography

Original Abstract Painting on Canvas by Kathleen Patrick This painting is heavily textured, and combines soft earth tones, brown and white. Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 60" x 48" x 1.5" This painting is sold - but you can contact us to commission a painting in this style. We also offer Fine Art Limited Edition Canvas Prints. Artist Enhanced versions are available for purchase too! Tel: 312-292-7904 Visit our website www.chicagoskylineart.com to see much more. From the artist, Kathleen Patrick: "This work is from a series that takes inspiration from weathered stone facades, natural stone formations and the organic shapes in nature. This painting is a quiet study in subtleties where I used only neutral colors. There are elusive shapes and formations in the multi-layered background - creating a uniquely texted artwork that is continuously visually engaging." Paintings in this series have been created as large as 6 ft. x 8 ft.

Our client is a huge cook and wanted the kitchen to continue in the theme of being designed for guests. Renowned Renovation built the owner’s dream kitchen in a relatively small, yet highly efficient, space. As you can see in the photos, the kitchen is open to the living room, making sure the cook is still in the mix of the company. A large quartzite countertop was designed to also double as a banquet-style serving area for parties. The client choose Renowned Cabinetry and Grant and his team designed the kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, wet-bar, and a hutch on the lower-level. This kitchen was custom-designed with all high-end appliances. From the 36” Thermador refrigerator with a touch-to-close door to a Miele built-in coffee maker—functionality and comfort pave the way for the best in luxury kitchen renovation. We also choose a Miele Steam Oven, for a top-of-the-line innovation for a home cooking experience. “The unique external steam generation in the form of Miele MultiSteam technology ensures perfect results,” for all cooking needs. The Kitchen lighting was impressively designed. There are recessed down and recessed directional lighting with independent switches. We installed Lutron Caseta lighting, a high-end Smart controlled system. By having more control over the lighting you will always be sure to be able to set the mood. This system also allows you to control your lights from an app so you’re able to turn on lights in the house when you’re nowhere near it. The kitchen design is beautifully enhanced by the premium Quartzite countertops and backsplash. This is a silver macabus quartzite stone that has a natural shine and durability. One end of the countertop is a waterfall edge. This provides a clean vertical drop down the side of the counter. The effect is a modern look that eliminates the separation from the counter to cabinets. The backsplash is the same quartzite countertops. It’s a separate piece but it appears as one continuous stone that lines up to meet the hand-crafted line of Renowned Cabinetry. Many designers will suggest elaborate and decorative backsplashes as a feature to a kitchen renovation. In this home, and for a modern and minimalistic look, the goal is to use the same materials. The look is elegant, beautiful and simplistic. It’s not sticking out or catching anyone’s eye.

The site descends from the street and is privileged with dynamic natural views toward a creek below and beyond. To incorporate the existing landscape into the daily life of the residents, the house steps down to the natural topography. A continuous and jogging retaining wall from outside to inside embeds the structure below natural grade at the front with flush transitions at its rear facade. All indoor spaces open up to a central courtyard which terraces down to the tree canopy, creating a readily visible and occupiable transitional space between man-made and nature. The courtyard scheme is simplified by two wings representing common and private zones - connected by a glass dining “bridge." This transparent volume also visually connects the front yard to the courtyard, clearing for the prospect view, while maintaining a subdued street presence. The staircase acts as a vertical “knuckle,” mediating shifting wing angles while contrasting the predominant horizontality of the house. Crips materiality and detailing, deep roof overhangs, and the one-and-half story wall at the rear further enhance the connection between outdoors and indoors, providing nuanced natural lighting throughout and a meaningful framed procession through the property. Photography Charles Davis Smith

This sleek and neutral style bathroom gives you cleaner showering and tubbing while probing to eliminate that last little space at the back of the tub where mold and mildew can grow. The shower enclosure attaches directly to the tub, so you no longer have a gap between the wall and the tub, where grimy soap scum can build up. The master bathroom remodels a seamless wall tile matched nicely with dark wood tone cabinets. An undermount sink is combined with an undermount tub, creating continuity in the design of this spa-like retreat, and it is cost-effective too. Overall, the space looks shiny because of chrome hardware fixtures, making the retreat seem endlessly modern. The guest bathroom uses brushed nickel hardware and fixtures that give the space a subtler-softer look with white wave wall tiles which are elegant and graceful additions that enhance the natural light that differs from the masters' bathroom. And the cabinets in the guest bathroom are clean and simple with shaker finishes-edges.

In this recently completed project, we reimagined the interiors of a former architect’s DC condo, curating a stylish and functional living and dining experience. The open-plan layout now features a cohesive blend of form and function furniture selections curated exclusively, and the dining space is anchored by stainless steel-framed custom DC photograph. This dining area also seating five, and sits perpendicular to a new window-wall bar cabinet we supplied, accompanied by coordinating bar stools for casual entertaining Just beyond, the terrace was upgraded with elegant evergreen planters, a propane firepit, and a tilting umbrella that echoes the indoor-outdoor harmony. Evening ambiance will be enhanced with an LED strip light installed beneath the parapet for a warm, glowing atmosphere. The transformation continues into the private spaces, where the primary suite now boasts a chic sitting room outfitted with a sleeper sofa, swivel chairs, curated art, and built-in cabinetry for added utility. The primary bedroom itself is wrapped in serene textures and tones, featuring a plush gray velvet bed, coordinating nightstands, stone-and-crystal lamps, and a soft area rug that grounds the space in comfort. Additional rooms in the condo received updates as well—those will be revealed soon in the next design showcase. Stay tuned!