Search results for "Continue reading" in Home Design Ideas

This project imagines a calm, considered threshold between the outside world and the sanctuary of home. At its center, a slender Japandi console in solid walnut stretches along a clean white wall, acting as both a visual anchor and a quiet invitation to slow down. The wood’s rich grain introduces warmth and depth, softening the crisp geometry of a modern interior while echoing the simplicity of Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions.
In an entryway, the console becomes a refined landing zone: a place for a ceramic bowl to catch keys, a single sculptural lamp to pool soft light, and an artful branch in a glass vase to bring in nature. Slide this same piece into a home office, and it instantly transforms into a backdrop for focused work—supporting a curated selection of books, a laptop, or a rotating display of inspiration objects without ever feeling cluttered. The open lower area keeps the floor visually light, allowing baskets or a slim ottoman to tuck neatly beneath.
Throughout the space, the walnut console reads as architecture as much as furniture. Its balanced proportions, uncomplicated lines, and honest materiality allow it to bridge zones—entry, hallway, office corner—creating a continuous story of calm, functional beauty from the moment you walk through the door.

On first glance, this staircase reads as restrained. White oak treads rise with natural warmth, metal balusters hold their disciplined rhythm, and the painted black railing traces a clean, straight path upward. Then you notice the elliptical stringer wrap, and the whole composition shifts. Unlike a circular curve drawn with a compass, an ellipse requires mathematical calculation and a craftsman who knows how to make that complexity disappear. Here, it does exactly that.
Natural light finishes the story. Moving through the space across the day, it deepens the oak grain, catches the metal, and lets the black railing guide the eye along the handrail's elliptical path from start to finish. Restraint brought the design this far. One well-executed curve made it memorable.
1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

These homeowners came to us wanting to upgrade the curb appeal of their home and improve the layout of the interior. They hoped for an entry that would welcome guests to their home both inside and out, while also creating more defined and purposeful space within the home. The main goals of the project were to add a covered wrap around porch, add more windows for natural light, create a formal entry that housed the client’s baby grand piano, and add a home office for the clients to work from home.
With a dated exterior and facade that lacked dimension, there was little charm to be had. The front door was hidden from visitors and a lack of windows made the exterior unoriginal. We approached the exterior design pulling inspiration from the farmhouse style, southern porches, and craftsman style homes. Eventually we landed on a design that added numerous windows to the front façade, reminiscent of a farmhouse, and turned a Dutch hipped roof into an extended gable roof, creating a large front porch and adding curb appeal interest. By relocating the entry door to the front of the house and adding a gable accent over this new door, it created a focal point for guests and passersby. In addition to those design elements, we incorporated some exterior shutters rated for our northwest climate that echoed the southern style homes our client loved. A greige paint color (Benjamin Moore Cape May Cobblestone) accented with a white trim (Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee) and a black front door, shutters, and window box (Sherwin Williams Black Magic) all work together to create a charming and welcoming façade.
On the interior we removed a half wall and coat closet that separated the original cramped entryway from the front room. The front room was a multipurpose space that didn’t have a designated use for the family, it became a catch-all space that was easily cluttered. Through the design process we came up with a plan to split the spaces into 2 rooms, a large open semi-formal entryway and a home office. The semi-formal entryway was intentionally designed to house the homeowner’s baby grand piano – a real showstopper. The flow created by this entryway is welcoming and ushers you into a beautifully curated home.
A new office now sits right off the entryway with beautiful French doors, built-in cabinetry, and an abundance of natural light – everything that one dreams of for their home office. The home office looks out to the front porch and front yard as well as the pastural side yard where the children frequently play. The office is an ideal location for a moment of inspiration, reflection, and focus. A warm white paint (Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee) combined with the newly installed light oak luxury vinyl plank flooring runs throughout the home, creating continuity and a neutral canvas. Traditional and schoolhouse style statement light fixtures coordinate with the black door hardware for an added level of contrast.
There is one more improvement that made a big difference to this family. In the family room, we added a built-in window seat. This created a cozy nook that is used by all for reading and extra seating. This relatively small improvement had a big impact on how the family uses and enjoys the space.
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Looking back at entry there is a shared office with sliding barn doors. The shared office also has a separate entrance. The living room has large nano wall. Living room also features a nice, clean, long linear cosmo fireplace surrounded by beautiful stone. Space saving design carries through to the living room. The entire wall has built-ins and storage. Within this wall is a continuous opening window which creates a great nook area to just kind of sit back and relax and maybe read a book.

Family room from a complete luxury home remodel in Newport Coast, anchored by a carved stone fireplace surround over a new firebox with a fire ball burner set — the fourth new fireplace delivered in the remodel — with the 20-foot LaCantina pocket slider fully open to the pergola-covered patio beyond. Coastline Builders Group modified the ceiling, installed the natural limestone flooring running seamlessly from the room across the threshold to the patio, and delivered new millwork, electrical, and lighting, with the adjacent custom wet bar serving the space. Family room, patio, and pool read as one continuous entertaining level when the wall of glass disappears.

We were contacted by a client from Formby asking for advice on how to remove a thick layer of floor leveller from her Quarry tiled floor. I suspect at some point in the past a previous owner had decided to cover the tiles with lino and a cement-based levelling compound was applied to level the floor first. My client had tried to remove it herself but found it very hard going and after realising she had quite a project on her hands decided to call us instead and see if we could help with the restoration.
I worked out a quote for the client which would include removing the self-levelling compound, cleaning up the tiles and then sealing them to improve its appearance and protect it going forward. The quote was accepted, and a date agreed for the restoration to be completed which would take two days.
We have a variety of tools that we can use for removing cement but in this case, I decided to use an air operated pin gun. The head of the gun has long pins of different length which are fired at the floor gently chipping away at the floor compound, this made short work of breaking up the cement so it could be swept away. A lot easier than the method the client had previously tried.
With the floor clear of cement, it was given an acid wash with Tile Doctor Acid Gel scrubbed in with a buffing machine fitted with a black pad. The acidic formula cleans up the stone of old cement including fine particles of dust. Afterwards the gel was rinsed off the floor with water and extracted with a wet vacuum.
We let the floor dry out overnight and returned the next morning to apply the sealer. For the best results, the stone needs to be dry so before sealing I always take several moisture readings with a damp meter to make sure. The results were good so the first of what would be three coats of sealer were applied to the floor. I used Tile Doctor Colour Grow for sealing, it is an impregnating sealer that works by occupying the pores in the store thereby protecting it from within, it also brings out the colour in the stone.
Once done the floor looked great, the old self-levelling compound was gone and the rich colours in the tile had been restored. In fact is was only when finished did we realise these were in fact Baked Clay Quarry Tiles, minerals are added during manufacturing to give then colour, although 95% clay they are very tough like stone. The client was over the moon with the outcome, the floor had been restored to its’ former glory.
For aftercare I recommended the use of Tile Doctor Neutral Tile Cleaner to keep the floor in good condition. It is pH neutral so will ensure the newly applied sealer is not compromised and the floor will continue to look good for a long while to come.
Andrew Robb
Merseyside Tile Doctor

One bedroom was turned into a home office with custom bookshelves to feature our client’s love of reading. A dark grey on the walls allows this room to feel very cozy in the day and allows someone to marvel at the amazing cityscape at night. The client had an amazing antique Chinese curio cabinet that was open on both sides to continuously bring the cityscape inside. With a love of family and ancestry, we curated a collection of family photos going back generations opposite the marble base desk, making the perfect backdrop for video calls.

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting.
The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet.
Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background.
The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

On first glance, this staircase reads as restrained. White oak treads rise with natural warmth, metal balusters hold their disciplined rhythm, and the painted black railing traces a clean, straight path upward. Then you notice the elliptical stringer wrap, and the whole composition shifts. Unlike a circular curve drawn with a compass, an ellipse requires mathematical calculation and a craftsman who knows how to make that complexity disappear. Here, it does exactly that.
Natural light finishes the story. Moving through the space across the day, it deepens the oak grain, catches the metal, and lets the black railing guide the eye along the handrail's elliptical path from start to finish. Restraint brought the design this far. One well-executed curve made it memorable.
1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

The centrepiece of this Caledon kitchen — a full-height rift-cut white oak arched pantry wall built entirely from scratch. The arch frames a complete butler's pantry with upper cabinets, drawers, lower cabinets, and a quartz countertop with stone backsplash inside the alcove. The oak veneer wraps the full surround continuously, floor to ceiling and wall to wall, so the grain reads as one uninterrupted surface. Matte black hardware throughout. Cabinetry by Fox Custom Woodworks. Designed by Michaela's Homes & Interiors.

Taking on this pre-war building renovation was the ultimate design challenge. We combined two units into one massive home. By moving the dining table into the great room, we were able to double the size of the kitchen, allowing for a large island in the center of the space. The wolf range topped with a custom hood was on the utilitary side of the kitchen, next the the shaws sink and House of Rohl faucet. The Calacatta Paonazzo marble from Artistic tile in a honed finished continued from the counters to the backsplash and floating shelf, serving the wow factor this light kitchen deserved. On the opposite wall, floor to ceiling custom cabinetry housed a coffee station and ample storage. There’s even a reading nook window seat, perfect for morning coffee. The two glass blown pendants from Gabriel Scott float on top of the island while the Hudson Valley sconces illuminate the marble shelf. Lead designer, Stevi Fourouli added the final touch by painting lime-wash on the walls to accentuate the old-world feeling of this building.

The Jordan family came to Burgin Construction Inc. because they were interested in having a bright and open design-build kitchen remodel in their Yorba Linda home.
Their renovation was complete with copper hood detailing, custom crafted cabinets, countertops, all new appliances, refinished flooring and fresh new paint.
Continue on to take a look at how the Burgin team worked hand-in-hand with the Jordan family to make their dreams a reality.
Take a moment to read the Jordan's review here: https://www.houzz.com/viewReview/792491/Burgin-Construction-review.
Are you ready to start making your living space more livable? Contact us and our design-build team will work hand-in-hand with you to make your dreams a reality.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting.
The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet.
Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background.
The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

These Hanover, MA clients came to Renovisions as they wanted a local design-build company to rework and expand their small and outdated 1980’s colonial kitchen.
We collaborated and created an expanded 12’x15’ addition space to accommodate a newly designed kitchen which is now 21’x15’. Before we began with the construction process, proper structural engineering presented a challenge as the property was built on ledge. As expected, we determined that several concrete supports were necessary and needed to be built to support the expanded structure.
Our plan included both creative aesthetic and functional layout modifications to transform this ordinary kitchen into a spacious, well-lit, highly functional, stylish and welcoming space to cook, gather and entertain. The bump-out allowed for more functional cabinetry and a dining table which before was placed in a corner of the previous cramped kitchen. Now, there is a wide open space from the adjacent living room and a clear path to a 5’ French door opening to the pool deck. The homeowners also elected for us to extend a new roof over their existing deck creating a nice shaded space to entertain guests.
The island, which serves as the central gathering spot. is eye catching with contrasting dark cocoa colored cabinets and stunning natural looking Cambria quartz countertops. Large, easily accessible deep drawers provide much needed storage for pots, pans and lids as well as expansive countertop space for everyday prep and family get-togethers.
Overall, the clients were thrilled with their Renovision and cannot wait to throw a party to show off their stunning kitchen.
“There is not a single choice we aren’t happy with; it is so us! I love all of the storage and I have a feeling we are going to do a lot of entertaining this summer.”
“Dear Cathy and Ed, We are abundantly grateful for the entire Renovisions Team that have provided us with a beautiful kitchen and porch to enjoy. We will continue to make family memories for many years to come with this new addition. From the first time we met with you at the showroom, we were confident that high quality workmanship would go into our new construction. Mike, Brad, and Tom were very trustworthy and worked very hard every day they were on the job site. They were very flexible and always put the homeowners safety first. They even offered a bit of comic relief! Every night the site was cleaned meticulously, never leaving tools or sharp edges of any sort in the open space. We were also very pleased with the help offered when designing and choosing cabinets, tile and other finishes. Liz was always very helpful and patient to answer questions when we came by the showroom. We are extremely pleased with all the choices and on a daily basis we enjoy the warmth and amazing space it provides.
We recently hosted a retirement party for 70 people and it never felt crowed! We relax under the covered porch in the morning for coffee, the afternoon for lunch and to watch the grandkids in the pool. And of course in the evening while we read or catch up on emails. It is an amazing space! Thank you all again, for your hard work and passion for your craftsmanship. We will be in touch soon to set up a date for you all to drop by to see the finishing touches and to enjoy refreshments.”
- Paul & Beth H. (Hanover)

The patios are open from the living room, guest bedroom and master bedroom and overlook a gorgeous pool below. Contemporary metal furniture continues the contemporary style from inside and complements the architecture of the building. Two loveseats with granite top tables are the perfect place for lounging in the afternoon. Pillows and an outdoor rug bring interesting textures to the patio. Behind the loveseats is a pub table for dining and entertaining. Off of the Guest Bedroom and Master Bedroom are more private seating areas for a quite morning cup of coffee or a reading in the afternoons. Plants were added to the space for extra privacy and color. Photography by Erika Bierman

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting.
The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet.
Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background.
The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

Separate sleeping quarters and an ultra-clever loft continue the elegant theme on the upper level.
Photo credit: Ashley Avila Photography
Inspiration for a coastal family room remodel in Grand Rapids
Inspiration for a coastal family room remodel in Grand Rapids

As part of this whole home renovation, the homeowners desired to have living spaces that brought the family together and also allowed them private space while creating a natural flow from the front door and throughout. This continuation of space does just that while showcasing the best of Wood-Mode’s custom capabilities. Just inside the home’s entrance, a mudroom area provides seating for the family to sit and remove shoes, and cabinets and shelving to store coats and bags. In the foyer, an inset wall cabinet with integrated lighting provides a place to safely showcase art and precious family heirlooms. And just a few steps down the hall finds a warm, inviting nook lined with bookshelves and a window. All of the home’s seating and storage areas are constructed of a combination of Wood-Mode’s Pasadena Recessed and Rockport Recessed door styles, both finished in Nordic White, and complimented with Walnut seat tops and cabinet back panels.
Designed by Julie Thomas
Maple Shade Cabinet Co.
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