This client sought to update their recently purchased home in Alexandria. A gourmet kitchen that complemented the size of the home and property was a top priority. They wanted more light-filled and connected living spaces for their growing family. Updating the finishes throughout the home was also a necessity. Design challenges included an existing utility space that occupied a large portion of the kitchen footprint, making the kitchen cramped and narrow. In addition, the foyer was dark, confined and uninviting as a result of its organization and enclosed nature of the main stair. To overcome the challenges, we relocated the utilities, creating a more usable footprint for the kitchen. The aging furnace was replaced with a high efficiency furnace located in a newly insulated and conditioned crawl space. A new hot water heater was placed in the finished attic, and the electrical panel was also relocated. Then, we designed a portion of the kitchen to mask the need for dropped structural headers: the refrigerator, freezer and pantry were placed under the area that necessitated a drop bulkhead, creating a sleek built-in area for the appliances. Once the utilities were moved, the kitchen could be opened up to a large family room and designed with a much-improved layout. Two new four-panel exterior doors replaced small doors at the family room to connect the main living space with the beautiful yard. In addition, white bead board was added to the family room ceiling, creating more visual continuity with the adjacent white kitchen. To transform the foyer into a grand and welcoming entry, a small amount of space was taken from a large second floor bedroom, and the entire second floor structure was supported with a series of flush beams to allow the stair to be opened and expose the rail. New glass doors to the den, relocated at an angle from the main stair provide the foyer with more natural light and a wider, more inviting path to the kitchen. In the master suite, the bedroom and bathroom entry doors were relocated to improve the room’s layout and offer more bathroom privacy and space for a walk-in closet. A room forgotten by the previous owner was turned into a family mudroom with built-ins and wainscoting to keep the family organized in style. Photography by Greg Hadley

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

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Example of a mid-sized 1960s medium tone wood floor and brown floor family room design in Calgary with white walls and a tile fireplace

Our clients wanted to open up the wall between their kitchen and living areas to improve flow and continuity and they wanted to add a large island. They felt that although there were windows in both the kitchen and living area, it was still somewhat dark, so they wanted to brighten it up. There was a built-in wet bar in the corner of the family room that really wasn’t used much and they felt it was just wasted space. Their overall taste was clean, simple lines, white cabinets but still with a touch of style. They definitely wanted to lose all the gray cabinets and busy hardware. We demoed all kitchen cabinets, countertops and light fixtures in the kitchen and wet bar area. All flooring in the kitchen and throughout main common areas was also removed. Waypoint Shaker Door style cabinets were installed with Leyton satin nickel hardware. The cabinets along the wall were painted linen and java on the island for a cool contrast. Beautiful Vicostone Misterio countertops were installed. Shadow glass subway tile was installed as the backsplash with a Susan Joblon Silver White and Grey Metallic Glass accent tile behind the cooktop. A large single basin undermount stainless steel sink was installed in the island with a Genta Spot kitchen faucet. The single light over the kitchen table was Seagull Lighting “Nance” and the two hanging over the island are Kuzco Lighting Vanier LED Pendants. We removed the wet bar in the family room and added two large windows, creating a wall of windows to the backyard. This definitely helped bring more light in and open up the view to the pool. In addition to tearing out the wet bar and removing the wall between the kitchen, the fireplace was upgraded with an asymmetrical mantel finished in a modern Irving Park Gray 12x24” tile. To finish it all off and tie all the common areas together and really make it flow, the clients chose a 5” wide Java bamboo flooring. Our clients love their new spaces and the improved flow, efficiency and functionality of the kitchen and adjacent living spaces.

Since moving into her Dublin home two and a half years ago, Nancy Sanford has been peeling off the decades—quite literally. Built in the 1980s, the home was “very well-maintained, but very little had been done to it” in terms of updating the finishes or style, Sanford says. Plush white carpet ran from wall-to-wall-to-wall, almond-colored laminate coated the kitchen cabinets and wallpaper ran rampant—even covering some ceilings. Despite her efforts, Sanford knew it was going to take more than cosmetic editing to shake the ‘80s and make the home her own. Although she lives in the traditional-leaning Muirfield community, Sanford adores a minimalist, contemporary style—and admits to devouring design magazines “ad nauseam.” To implement her thoroughly modern vision, Sanford turned to Brigid Norton, an interior designer and family friend, and Kristi Youles, a kitchen designer with The JAE Company. Working together, the trio created a carefully considered contemporary design that’s easy on the eyes, and the body. In addition to improving the flow of the kitchen—by removing a V-shaped peninsula that angled out into the room—and adding appliances like a stainless steel refrigerator, Sanford’s short list of must-haves included clean, uncluttered lines and no wall cabinets over the countertops. “I’ve found as I’ve aged, I’ve gotten shorter and just don’t use the upper cabinets,” Sanford explains. Easy-access, smooth-slide drawers with clean slab fronts were the answer—resulting in strong visual lines, an open, airy feel and enhanced ergonomics. Starting with a “needs assessment,” Youles and Norton designed the space quite literally around Nancy. By looking at factors such as her height and which items she uses most frequently, they were able to determine the optimum placement for everything from canned goods in the pantry to cutlery, pans and plates in the customized drawers, all of which helped to achieve the ultimate kitchen organization. But there’s more to the kitchen cabinets smooth façade than clean-lined storage. Walnut drawer fronts—found on the oven and the base of the island—are book-matched, allowing the grain to continue from drawer to drawer. And even in spaces where drawers weren’t feasible, beneath the sink and in a desk area, the designers continued the look with cabinet doors crafted to resemble drawers. The visual continuity of these lines might not be as impactful if it weren’t for the careful selection of contrasting finishes. The designers filled the space with pure, glossy white—using a specific type of quartz, White Cliff by Cambria, to accent the bold rectangular design of the island. Then, to break up the expanse of accompanying white painted drawers, walnut was selected to bring the contrasting warmth and grain of wood without red undertones. It is commonly found in modern furniture design, as well as current productions of mid-century designs like the iconic Eames Lounge Chair from Herman Miller, Youles says.

Grand Isle Log Cabin Summer Camp Whole-House Renovation of a Grand Isle Log Cabin Summer Camp Tucked among the pines in Grand Isle, Vermont, this classic log cabin summer camp had been a beloved family retreat for decades, but it was in need of significant updates to serve the next generation. We worked closely with the owners to complete a whole-house renovation, carefully preserving the cabin’s rustic charm while adding modern comforts and functionality. The project included reworking the interior layout to create open, light-filled living spaces, upgrading the kitchen and baths, improving insulation, and modernizing mechanical systems — all with an eye toward durability and timeless style. Original log walls were restored and highlighted, and new woodwork was crafted to seamlessly match the old. Now, this rejuvenated log cabin is ready to host family gatherings, children’s laughter, and long summer evenings for many, many years to come — a space where memories will continue to be made across generations.

While working with this couple on their master bathroom, they asked us to renovate their kitchen which was still in the 70’s and needed a complete demo and upgrade utilizing new modern design and innovative technology and elements. We transformed an indoor grill area with curved design on top to a buffet/serving station with an angled top to mimic the angle of the ceiling. Skylights were incorporated for natural light and the red brick fireplace was changed to split face stacked travertine which continued over the buffet for a dramatic aesthetic. The dated island, cabinetry and appliances were replaced with bark-stained Hickory cabinets, a larger island and state of the art appliances. The sink and faucet were chosen from a source in Chicago and add a contemporary flare to the island. An additional buffet area was added for a tv, bookshelves and additional storage. The pendant light over the kitchen table took some time to find exactly what they were looking for, but we found a light that was minimalist and contemporary to ensure an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard. The result is a stunning kitchen with improved function, storage, and the WOW they were going for.

While working with this couple on their master bathroom, they asked us to renovate their kitchen which was still in the 70’s and needed a complete demo and upgrade utilizing new modern design and innovative technology and elements. We transformed an indoor grill area with curved design on top to a buffet/serving station with an angled top to mimic the angle of the ceiling. Skylights were incorporated for natural light and the red brick fireplace was changed to split face stacked travertine which continued over the buffet for a dramatic aesthetic. The dated island, cabinetry and appliances were replaced with bark-stained Hickory cabinets, a larger island and state of the art appliances. The sink and faucet were chosen from a source in Chicago and add a contemporary flare to the island. An additional buffet area was added for a tv, bookshelves and additional storage. The pendant light over the kitchen table took some time to find exactly what they were looking for, but we found a light that was minimalist and contemporary to ensure an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard. The result is a stunning kitchen with improved function, storage, and the WOW they were going for.

While working with this couple on their master bathroom, they asked us to renovate their kitchen which was still in the 70’s and needed a complete demo and upgrade utilizing new modern design and innovative technology and elements. We transformed an indoor grill area with curved design on top to a buffet/serving station with an angled top to mimic the angle of the ceiling. Skylights were incorporated for natural light and the red brick fireplace was changed to split face stacked travertine which continued over the buffet for a dramatic aesthetic. The dated island, cabinetry and appliances were replaced with bark-stained Hickory cabinets, a larger island and state of the art appliances. The sink and faucet were chosen from a source in Chicago and add a contemporary flare to the island. An additional buffet area was added for a tv, bookshelves and additional storage. The pendant light over the kitchen table took some time to find exactly what they were looking for, but we found a light that was minimalist and contemporary to ensure an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard. The result is a stunning kitchen with improved function, storage, and the WOW they were going for.

An open floor plan kitchen renovation transforms your kitchen from a closed-off space into a sociable and airy heart of the home. The Walls Come Down: The biggest change is removing walls (or widening doorways) that separate the kitchen from the living room or dining room. This creates a continuous living area bathed in more natural light. Island Paradise: A kitchen island becomes the centerpiece. It can house your sink, cooktop, offer seating, and provide much-needed prep space. You can choose a large island for entertaining or a smaller one to define the space. Work Zones Take Shape: Imagine designated areas for specific tasks. A sink area with a dishwasher nearby, a prep zone with ample countertop, and a cooking zone with the oven and cooktop grouped together. This promotes efficiency and a smooth workflow in your kitchen. Light and Bright: Natural light is key. Large windows or skylights can be incorporated during the renovation to bathe the space in sunshine. Light, reflective surfaces like white cabinets or light-colored countertops also enhance the feeling of openness. Designing the Flow: Flooring plays a big role in tying the open concept space together. Opt for continuous flooring throughout the kitchen and living area to create a seamless flow. Area rugs can be used later to define separate zones within the open plan. Don't Forget the Details: Open concept kitchens need clever storage solutions to avoid clutter. Built-in cabinets, pantries, and even hidden storage drawers in the island can keep things organized. To distinguish the kitchen from the living area, consider using a different colored paint scheme on the island or backsplash.

An open floor plan kitchen renovation transforms your kitchen from a closed-off space into a sociable and airy heart of the home. The Walls Come Down: The biggest change is removing walls (or widening doorways) that separate the kitchen from the living room or dining room. This creates a continuous living area bathed in more natural light. Island Paradise: A kitchen island becomes the centerpiece. It can house your sink, cooktop, offer seating, and provide much-needed prep space. You can choose a large island for entertaining or a smaller one to define the space. Work Zones Take Shape: Imagine designated areas for specific tasks. A sink area with a dishwasher nearby, a prep zone with ample countertop, and a cooking zone with the oven and cooktop grouped together. This promotes efficiency and a smooth workflow in your kitchen. Light and Bright: Natural light is key. Large windows or skylights can be incorporated during the renovation to bathe the space in sunshine. Light, reflective surfaces like white cabinets or light-colored countertops also enhance the feeling of openness. Designing the Flow: Flooring plays a big role in tying the open concept space together. Opt for continuous flooring throughout the kitchen and living area to create a seamless flow. Area rugs can be used later to define separate zones within the open plan. Don't Forget the Details: Open concept kitchens need clever storage solutions to avoid clutter. Built-in cabinets, pantries, and even hidden storage drawers in the island can keep things organized. To distinguish the kitchen from the living area, consider using a different colored paint scheme on the island or backsplash.

An open floor plan kitchen renovation transforms your kitchen from a closed-off space into a sociable and airy heart of the home. The Walls Come Down: The biggest change is removing walls (or widening doorways) that separate the kitchen from the living room or dining room. This creates a continuous living area bathed in more natural light. Island Paradise: A kitchen island becomes the centerpiece. It can house your sink, cooktop, offer seating, and provide much-needed prep space. You can choose a large island for entertaining or a smaller one to define the space. Work Zones Take Shape: Imagine designated areas for specific tasks. A sink area with a dishwasher nearby, a prep zone with ample countertop, and a cooking zone with the oven and cooktop grouped together. This promotes efficiency and a smooth workflow in your kitchen. Light and Bright: Natural light is key. Large windows or skylights can be incorporated during the renovation to bathe the space in sunshine. Light, reflective surfaces like white cabinets or light-colored countertops also enhance the feeling of openness. Designing the Flow: Flooring plays a big role in tying the open concept space together. Opt for continuous flooring throughout the kitchen and living area to create a seamless flow. Area rugs can be used later to define separate zones within the open plan. Don't Forget the Details: Open concept kitchens need clever storage solutions to avoid clutter. Built-in cabinets, pantries, and even hidden storage drawers in the island can keep things organized. To distinguish the kitchen from the living area, consider using a different colored paint scheme on the island or backsplash.

An open floor plan kitchen renovation transforms your kitchen from a closed-off space into a sociable and airy heart of the home. The Walls Come Down: The biggest change is removing walls (or widening doorways) that separate the kitchen from the living room or dining room. This creates a continuous living area bathed in more natural light. Island Paradise: A kitchen island becomes the centerpiece. It can house your sink, cooktop, offer seating, and provide much-needed prep space. You can choose a large island for entertaining or a smaller one to define the space. Work Zones Take Shape: Imagine designated areas for specific tasks. A sink area with a dishwasher nearby, a prep zone with ample countertop, and a cooking zone with the oven and cooktop grouped together. This promotes efficiency and a smooth workflow in your kitchen. Light and Bright: Natural light is key. Large windows or skylights can be incorporated during the renovation to bathe the space in sunshine. Light, reflective surfaces like white cabinets or light-colored countertops also enhance the feeling of openness. Designing the Flow: Flooring plays a big role in tying the open concept space together. Opt for continuous flooring throughout the kitchen and living area to create a seamless flow. Area rugs can be used later to define separate zones within the open plan. Don't Forget the Details: Open concept kitchens need clever storage solutions to avoid clutter. Built-in cabinets, pantries, and even hidden storage drawers in the island can keep things organized. To distinguish the kitchen from the living area, consider using a different colored paint scheme on the island or backsplash.

While working with this couple on their master bathroom, they asked us to renovate their kitchen which was still in the 70’s and needed a complete demo and upgrade utilizing new modern design and innovative technology and elements. We transformed an indoor grill area with curved design on top to a buffet/serving station with an angled top to mimic the angle of the ceiling. Skylights were incorporated for natural light and the red brick fireplace was changed to split face stacked travertine which continued over the buffet for a dramatic aesthetic. The dated island, cabinetry and appliances were replaced with bark-stained Hickory cabinets, a larger island and state of the art appliances. The sink and faucet were chosen from a source in Chicago and add a contemporary flare to the island. An additional buffet area was added for a tv, bookshelves and additional storage. The pendant light over the kitchen table took some time to find exactly what they were looking for, but we found a light that was minimalist and contemporary to ensure an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard. The result is a stunning kitchen with improved function, storage, and the WOW they were going for.

Grand Isle Log Cabin Summer Camp Whole-House Renovation of a Grand Isle Log Cabin Summer Camp Tucked among the pines in Grand Isle, Vermont, this classic log cabin summer camp had been a beloved family retreat for decades, but it was in need of significant updates to serve the next generation. We worked closely with the owners to complete a whole-house renovation, carefully preserving the cabin’s rustic charm while adding modern comforts and functionality. The project included reworking the interior layout to create open, light-filled living spaces, upgrading the kitchen and baths, improving insulation, and modernizing mechanical systems — all with an eye toward durability and timeless style. Original log walls were restored and highlighted, and new woodwork was crafted to seamlessly match the old. Now, this rejuvenated log cabin is ready to host family gatherings, children’s laughter, and long summer evenings for many, many years to come — a space where memories will continue to be made across generations.

Custom Valances for Window Blinds and Shades When do we need Custom Valances? One of a valance's primary functions is to cover up hardware, curtain rods, and anything else at the top of a window you might want to adorn. A valance gives a continuous look and feel to any window covering. They can even tie together different window coverings in the same room. If you have thick trim around your windows, a valance is actually a good way to soften up its sharp lines. And if you're worried that the valance will cover the trim around your windows, then get an inside-mounted valance. It won't hide the trim, but it will instead soften the window and make the room cozier. When it comes to custom valances, there are many options out there that will make it more fit to your own Blinds and Shades of your choice. That’s what our products are for, so feel free to check out our photos to see what others are choosing for their windows. Check us out for more selection, www.trendyblinds.ca and www.trendyplusdesign.com Contact us for more info and consultation. Email: Info@trendyblinds.com Phone: 905-604-1222 ext. 1

While working with this couple on their master bathroom, they asked us to renovate their kitchen which was still in the 70’s and needed a complete demo and upgrade utilizing new modern design and innovative technology and elements. We transformed an indoor grill area with curved design on top to a buffet/serving station with an angled top to mimic the angle of the ceiling. Skylights were incorporated for natural light and the red brick fireplace was changed to split face stacked travertine which continued over the buffet for a dramatic aesthetic. The dated island, cabinetry and appliances were replaced with bark-stained Hickory cabinets, a larger island and state of the art appliances. The sink and faucet were chosen from a source in Chicago and add a contemporary flare to the island. An additional buffet area was added for a tv, bookshelves and additional storage. The pendant light over the kitchen table took some time to find exactly what they were looking for, but we found a light that was minimalist and contemporary to ensure an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard. The result is a stunning kitchen with improved function, storage, and the WOW they were going for.

An open floor plan kitchen renovation transforms your kitchen from a closed-off space into a sociable and airy heart of the home. The Walls Come Down: The biggest change is removing walls (or widening doorways) that separate the kitchen from the living room or dining room. This creates a continuous living area bathed in more natural light. Island Paradise: A kitchen island becomes the centerpiece. It can house your sink, cooktop, offer seating, and provide much-needed prep space. You can choose a large island for entertaining or a smaller one to define the space. Work Zones Take Shape: Imagine designated areas for specific tasks. A sink area with a dishwasher nearby, a prep zone with ample countertop, and a cooking zone with the oven and cooktop grouped together. This promotes efficiency and a smooth workflow in your kitchen. Light and Bright: Natural light is key. Large windows or skylights can be incorporated during the renovation to bathe the space in sunshine. Light, reflective surfaces like white cabinets or light-colored countertops also enhance the feeling of openness. Designing the Flow: Flooring plays a big role in tying the open concept space together. Opt for continuous flooring throughout the kitchen and living area to create a seamless flow. Area rugs can be used later to define separate zones within the open plan. Don't Forget the Details: Open concept kitchens need clever storage solutions to avoid clutter. Built-in cabinets, pantries, and even hidden storage drawers in the island can keep things organized. To distinguish the kitchen from the living area, consider using a different colored paint scheme on the island or backsplash.