This deck has a continual radius edge that had to be matched even in the bench sections at the stairs. The wood is a vertical grain A grade cedar and tight knot on the risers. No steaming or laminating were needed on this deck. By Westbrook Restorations Master Carpenter services.

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

Photos by TCPeterson Photography.
Example of a mid-sized transitional master white tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile walk-in shower design in Seattle with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, gray walls, an undermount sink, solid surface countertops and a hinged shower door

Access around the north side of the home is provided by a continuation of the bluestone pavers that provide sure footing for barefoot beach goers. The clever design coordinates utility and refuse areas to resemble changing rooms for the beach, while Arborvitaes line the property for additional privacy.

In this multi-story condo, the top level has access to a balcony with a 'forever' view of the ocean and beaches below. Storage was non existant! A custom cabinet was built providing storage for a beverage fridge and a full dry bar. An additional extra deep tall cabinetry was custom built for outdoor lounge cushions and pillows. Beautiful hardware finished off a contemporary look. New plank tile was installed on all levels providing a continuous flow throughout all the spaces.

The Ross Peak Entry Wall is an art instillation, reflecting the natural elements surrounding the Ross Peak Residence. Brass patinated tree silhouettes are woven in front of custom perforated designed clouds, installed over acoustical backer panels. Hidden in the wall is a concealed passage door that continues the tree silhouettes, providing easy access to additional rooms while not compromising the entry wall design. Attached to the wall is the Floating Bench – the perfect addition as a functional, yet artistic entry way.

In this multi-story condo, the top level has access to a balcony with a 'forever' view of the ocean and beaches below. Storage was non existant! A custom cabinet was built providing storage for a beverage fridge and a full dry bar. An additional extra deep tall cabinetry was custom built for outdoor lounge cushions and pillows. Beautiful hardware finished off a contemporary look. New plank tile was installed on all levels providing a continuous flow throughout all the spaces.

Our clients envisioned a clean, contemporary kitchen designed for both functionality and entertaining. Passionate about cooking and entertaining guests, their priorities included generous work surfaces, discreet storage for small appliances, and ample space for serving ware, cookware, and dinnerware. The cabinetry was selected for both aesthetics and ease of maintenance. A minimalist, hardware-free look keeps the space visually uncluttered. Lower cabinets operate via a continuous Euro-style channel, which seamlessly integrates with the refrigerator panels. Upper and tall cabinets feature a mix of touch-latch and servo-driven mechanisms, enhancing accessibility while maintaining a sleek profile. A raised bar conceals cooktop clutter during meal prep and creates a welcoming space to serve and engage with guests. The U-shaped layout was essential to keep the work zone distinct from social areas while allowing smooth movement around the kitchen. Lighting played a central role in the design. Multiple layers of illumination, all set to a bright 5000K color temperature per the homeowners' request, include dimmable toe-kick lights and a continuous recessed light channel along the tall cabinets. These create both ambiance and high-function lighting as needed. For entertaining large groups, the kitchen features multiple ovens and a warming drawer—perfect for entertaining. On the refrigerator wall, servo-activated countertop cabinets conceal small appliances, with the countertop surface continuing inside for easy access. A built-in, barista-quality coffee machine is nestled between these cabinets, adding a touch of luxury. For a clean look free of visible outlets, the team installed touch-activated, pop-out Legrand outlets with three-sided access. The color was custom-matched to complement the veining in the quartz countertops. The tall cabinet adjacent to the double oven stores everyday dishware, conveniently located for setting the nearby dining table. At the end of the peninsula, a servo-activated double trash pullout allows easy access without interfering with the cook. A dedicated utensil pullout beside it keeps tools within reach while maintaining clear countertops.

Michelle Ruber
Small minimalist u-shaped linoleum floor enclosed kitchen photo in Portland with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, light wood cabinets, concrete countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.

A screen porch overlooking a wooded lot creates a relaxing indoor/outdoor space. Features a tv and fireplace, access to grilling area and back yard. Vaulted wood plank ceiling continues from the interior with recessed lighting.

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.

Our clients house was built in 2012, so it was not that outdated, it was just dark. The clients wanted to lighten the kitchen and create something that was their own, using more unique products. The master bath needed to be updated and they wanted the upstairs game room to be more functional for their family. The original kitchen was very dark and all brown. The cabinets were stained dark brown, the countertops were a dark brown and black granite, with a beige backsplash. We kept the dark cabinets but lightened everything else. A new translucent frosted glass pantry door was installed to soften the feel of the kitchen. The main architecture in the kitchen stayed the same but the clients wanted to change the coffee bar into a wine bar, so we removed the upper cabinet door above a small cabinet and installed two X-style wine storage shelves instead. An undermount farm sink was installed with a 23” tall main faucet for more functionality. We replaced the chandelier over the island with a beautiful Arhaus Poppy large antique brass chandelier. Two new pendants were installed over the sink from West Elm with a much more modern feel than before, not to mention much brighter. The once dark backsplash was now a bright ocean honed marble mosaic 2”x4” a top the QM Calacatta Miel quartz countertops. We installed undercabinet lighting and added over-cabinet LED tape strip lighting to add even more light into the kitchen. We basically gutted the Master bathroom and started from scratch. We demoed the shower walls, ceiling over tub/shower, demoed the countertops, plumbing fixtures, shutters over the tub and the wall tile and flooring. We reframed the vaulted ceiling over the shower and added an access panel in the water closet for a digital shower valve. A raised platform was added under the tub/shower for a shower slope to existing drain. The shower floor was Carrara Herringbone tile, accented with Bianco Venatino Honed marble and Metro White glossy ceramic 4”x16” tile on the walls. We then added a bench and a Kohler 8” rain showerhead to finish off the shower. The walk-in shower was sectioned off with a frameless clear anti-spot treated glass. The tub was not important to the clients, although they wanted to keep one for resale value. A Japanese soaker tub was installed, which the kids love! To finish off the master bath, the walls were painted with SW Agreeable Gray and the existing cabinets were painted SW Mega Greige for an updated look. Four Pottery Barn Mercer wall sconces were added between the new beautiful Distressed Silver leaf mirrors instead of the three existing over-mirror vanity bars that were originally there. QM Calacatta Miel countertops were installed which definitely brightened up the room! Originally, the upstairs game room had nothing but a built-in bar in one corner. The clients wanted this to be more of a media room but still wanted to have a kitchenette upstairs. We had to remove the original plumbing and electrical and move it to where the new cabinets were. We installed 16’ of cabinets between the windows on one wall. Plank and Mill reclaimed barn wood plank veneers were used on the accent wall in between the cabinets as a backing for the wall mounted TV above the QM Calacatta Miel countertops. A kitchenette was installed to one end, housing a sink and a beverage fridge, so the clients can still have the best of both worlds. LED tape lighting was added above the cabinets for additional lighting. The clients love their updated rooms and feel that house really works for their family now. Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.

The design intent for this project was to seamlessly integrate modern function into a classic residence while preserving its architectural integrity. The homeowners sought improved accessibility and a more practical use of the upper levels without detracting from the home’s original charm. The new dormer was designed as a natural extension of the existing structure, with careful attention paid to proportion, materials, and roofline continuity. The result is a balanced addition that enhances daily living while maintaining a timeless aesthetic consistent with the rest of the home.