Mike & Nancy wanted a kitchen that felt open, functional, and inviting. The original layout had limited seating, dated finishes, and lacked the flow they envisioned for everyday life and hosting. Demolition and cleanup were completed to prepare for new cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and lighting. A wall was removed next to the refrigerator to improve sight lines and create more breathing room for the new layout. A new island in Waypoint 530S painted black cabinetry was added with storage on both sides. Perimeter cabinets in Maple Rye paired with matte black pulls, while rollout trays, inserts, and organizers improved functionality. MSI Surfaces Calacatta Izaro quartz countertops were installed with a 12-inch overhang for seating. The countertops extended into a splash that reached the bottom of the upper cabinets, providing continuity and an easy-to-clean surface. The inside of the window was wrapped in quartz to maintain a consistent finish. Lighting transformed the kitchen. Two Hinkley Lark Lane mini pendants were hung above the island, while an Everly Quinn chandelier was placed above the dining table. LED undercabinet strip lighting was installed. Savannah 8x40 porcelain tiles were installed in a random staggered layout across the kitchen, dining, and living room, tying the areas together with one continuous surface. New baseboards and fresh ceiling paint in Sherwin Williams High Reflective White completed the transformation.

Inspiration for a cottage shed remodel in Bridgeport

Inspiration for a country home design remodel in Bridgeport

Our client wanted to retain a coat closet at the entry to the Kitchen, but with improved storage and an updated look. The closet doors match the Kitchen cabinetry but the remaining interior doors on the first floor were also replaced with Jeld-wen single panel doors for an updated look, with contrasting Schlage "Broadway" door hardware in matte black to bring the entire space together.

New island creates more open space with improved storage function and allows for 36" Thermador gas cooktop and retractable Zephyr downdraft exhaust vent. Quartz countertops with subtle "marble veining" and Daltile glass and stone baroque backsplash gives a beautiful accent. Legrande lighting includes under cabinet lights with dimmer and outlets with phone chargers and Ipad holder for recipes. Family room flooring continued in throughout kitchen/breakfast.

This transformation began with several concepts in mind. Although this project is under continuous phased development, each completed section is closer to the owner's vision of backyard living and property improvements.

New flooring into master bedroom Now this was a fun project! We had the privilege of stopping out to perform a consultation for this client’s bathroom, and what a project it was! The existing bathroom provided plenty of room for a renovation, but the home owner was a little unsure of exactly what they wanted. They presented us with a wish list, and asked for our advice on how to fit everything into their dream master bathroom. The key factor for the hole project centered around the shower. Number one priority was a spacious, luxurious shower of their dreams. We worked hand in hand with them to provide the perfect layout, which included moving the toilet across the bathroom to make room. The old layout included a shower room that housed the toilet. To provide the biggest possible space, we converted the WHOLE room into one large shower. While the shower size was adequate for the typical home owner, it simply was not what our client wanted. We replace the window with glass block and moved the toilet out of the room. Then we proceeded to install 2 separate shower faucets with diverter valves and slide bar mounted hand-held shower wands The tile our client selected paired perfectly, and provided an eye-popping tiled shower enclosure. The closet was originally sectioned off into 2 rooms with an entrance from not only the bedroom, but also the bathroom. We eliminated this separating to allow a better flow and more storage options. The tub was completed deleted to make room for a longer, more elegant vanity to take its place. Our client liked the idea of continuing water proof vinyl plank flooring from the bathroom through their master bedroom as well. We enjoy all of the projects that we are blessed to participate in. However, there are some that just stand apart from the field. We thoroughly enjoyed bringing this client’s dream to reality, and look forward to them enjoying their dream master bathroom for years to come. Give A+ Home Improvements a call to get your project started today!

New flooring into master bedroom Now this was a fun project! We had the privilege of stopping out to perform a consultation for this client’s bathroom, and what a project it was! The existing bathroom provided plenty of room for a renovation, but the home owner was a little unsure of exactly what they wanted. They presented us with a wish list, and asked for our advice on how to fit everything into their dream master bathroom. The key factor for the hole project centered around the shower. Number one priority was a spacious, luxurious shower of their dreams. We worked hand in hand with them to provide the perfect layout, which included moving the toilet across the bathroom to make room. The old layout included a shower room that housed the toilet. To provide the biggest possible space, we converted the WHOLE room into one large shower. While the shower size was adequate for the typical home owner, it simply was not what our client wanted. We replace the window with glass block and moved the toilet out of the room. Then we proceeded to install 2 separate shower faucets with diverter valves and slide bar mounted hand-held shower wands The tile our client selected paired perfectly, and provided an eye-popping tiled shower enclosure. The closet was originally sectioned off into 2 rooms with an entrance from not only the bedroom, but also the bathroom. We eliminated this separating to allow a better flow and more storage options. The tub was completed deleted to make room for a longer, more elegant vanity to take its place. Our client liked the idea of continuing water proof vinyl plank flooring from the bathroom through their master bedroom as well. We enjoy all of the projects that we are blessed to participate in. However, there are some that just stand apart from the field. We thoroughly enjoyed bringing this client’s dream to reality, and look forward to them enjoying their dream master bathroom for years to come. Give A+ Home Improvements a call to get your project started today!

New flooring into master bedroom Now this was a fun project! We had the privilege of stopping out to perform a consultation for this client’s bathroom, and what a project it was! The existing bathroom provided plenty of room for a renovation, but the home owner was a little unsure of exactly what they wanted. They presented us with a wish list, and asked for our advice on how to fit everything into their dream master bathroom. The key factor for the hole project centered around the shower. Number one priority was a spacious, luxurious shower of their dreams. We worked hand in hand with them to provide the perfect layout, which included moving the toilet across the bathroom to make room. The old layout included a shower room that housed the toilet. To provide the biggest possible space, we converted the WHOLE room into one large shower. While the shower size was adequate for the typical home owner, it simply was not what our client wanted. We replace the window with glass block and moved the toilet out of the room. Then we proceeded to install 2 separate shower faucets with diverter valves and slide bar mounted hand-held shower wands The tile our client selected paired perfectly, and provided an eye-popping tiled shower enclosure. The closet was originally sectioned off into 2 rooms with an entrance from not only the bedroom, but also the bathroom. We eliminated this separating to allow a better flow and more storage options. The tub was completed deleted to make room for a longer, more elegant vanity to take its place. Our client liked the idea of continuing water proof vinyl plank flooring from the bathroom through their master bedroom as well. We enjoy all of the projects that we are blessed to participate in. However, there are some that just stand apart from the field. We thoroughly enjoyed bringing this client’s dream to reality, and look forward to them enjoying their dream master bathroom for years to come. Give A+ Home Improvements a call to get your project started today!

This transformation began with several concepts in mind. Although this project is under continuous phased development, each completed section is closer to the owner's vision of backyard living and property improvements.

New flooring into master bedroom Now this was a fun project! We had the privilege of stopping out to perform a consultation for this client’s bathroom, and what a project it was! The existing bathroom provided plenty of room for a renovation, but the home owner was a little unsure of exactly what they wanted. They presented us with a wish list, and asked for our advice on how to fit everything into their dream master bathroom. The key factor for the hole project centered around the shower. Number one priority was a spacious, luxurious shower of their dreams. We worked hand in hand with them to provide the perfect layout, which included moving the toilet across the bathroom to make room. The old layout included a shower room that housed the toilet. To provide the biggest possible space, we converted the WHOLE room into one large shower. While the shower size was adequate for the typical home owner, it simply was not what our client wanted. We replace the window with glass block and moved the toilet out of the room. Then we proceeded to install 2 separate shower faucets with diverter valves and slide bar mounted hand-held shower wands The tile our client selected paired perfectly, and provided an eye-popping tiled shower enclosure. The closet was originally sectioned off into 2 rooms with an entrance from not only the bedroom, but also the bathroom. We eliminated this separating to allow a better flow and more storage options. The tub was completed deleted to make room for a longer, more elegant vanity to take its place. Our client liked the idea of continuing water proof vinyl plank flooring from the bathroom through their master bedroom as well. We enjoy all of the projects that we are blessed to participate in. However, there are some that just stand apart from the field. We thoroughly enjoyed bringing this client’s dream to reality, and look forward to them enjoying their dream master bathroom for years to come. Give A+ Home Improvements a call to get your project started today!

Expanding and updating the kitchen was our top priority – the new layout was designed to straddle the original house and the addition, creating work zones rather than the traditional work triangle. The modified galley layout more than doubled their countertop area and storage space. Extending the kitchen into the addition took full advantage of the vaulted ceilings and light-filled space. To improve flow and connectivity, we opened up a wall between the old kitchen and the front entry hall providing a straight path from front door to the new mudroom/drop zone and kitchen beyond. A door from the dining room into the kitchen was shifted to allow for a more generous kitchen. The beautifully veined Calacatta Eiffel quartz counters and backsplash provide visual contrast with the black cabinetry and keep the space from feeling too heavy. A continuous ledge and floating shelves replace traditional uppers for a more open and modern feel. Stained wood is used throughout, from the bench top, to shelving, trim and custom millwork; it brings in a natural element and helps unite all of the spaces. A hood with a custom Venetian plaster finish is flanked by vintage inspired sconces and provides a stunning focal point in the room. A deep nook is home to a ‘bubble box’ that dispenses cold sparkling or still water on demand – the marble tile backsplash further differentiates this beverage zone. The brushed brass hardware stands out against the dark cabinets and adds a touch of warmth. With seating for three at the counter and the inclusion of a breakfast area banquette (with drawers), the home is ideal for family time and relaxed gatherings with friends.

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.

Tired of doing laundry in an unfinished rugged basement? These homeowner's were as well! They contacted Castle to help them with their basement planning and build for a finished laundry space and new bathroom with shower. After the designer and client walked through ideas to improve flow of space, we decided to eliminate the existing 1/2 bath in the family room, and move the new bathroom into the existing laundry room. The full laundry room was finished to include new walls, ceilings, new plumbing, new Adura luxury vinyl tile flooring, beautiful shaker style cabinetry with beadboard panel, Glossy white Cultured marble countertops, a new Blanco composite sink, and Kohler Bellera faucet. In the new bathroom space, we continued the Adura luxury vinyl flooring. Finishes in the bathroom include Kohler Memoirs pedestal sink, Kohler Archer faucet, custom hex tile shower floor, subway tile walls, and custom frameless glass shower enclosure. Additional improvements were made to improve the health of the home including asbestos tile abatement, new drain tile and sump pump, new spray foam insulation, new glass block window, and a new Panasonic bathroom fan. We also decided to save and restore some original pieces in the home like their existing 5-panel doors and repurposing one salvaged door into a pocket door for the new bathroom. The homeowner completed the basement finish with new carpeting in the family room. The whole basement feels fresh, new, and has a great flow. They will enjoy their happy and healthy home for years to come.

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.

Since introducing the first Valor Legend insert model in 1991, we continue to adapt and improve on all aspects of our flagship line. With constant innovation in product design and function, our objective is to exceed the expectations of Valor customers on every level. Easy-to-use, energy saving features position the Valor G3 insert as a leader in efficient, effective zone heating - a true upgrade in heat control, product reliability and overall home comfort. Update your existing living space with a wide selection of stunning fireplace designs in both traditional and contemporary appeal. A diverse collection of fronts, trims and hearth accessories provide endless installation opportunities for your dated, inefficient fireplace. Embodying over 100 years of Valor tradition accompanied by the latest in state-of-the-art technology, the Legend G3 continues to be the industries number one selling radiant gas insert.

Located in Argyle, Texas, this comprehensive whole-home renovation was conceived by USI Design & Remodeling who reimagined the home's interior architecture, transforming a collection of compartmentalized rooms into a cohesive environment designed for modern living, entertaining, and daily comfort. The project encompassed the kitchen, family room, dining room, lounge, office, primary bathroom, and supporting circulation spaces, creating a unified experience that feels both expansive and intentional. Throughout the home, refined materials, custom millwork, and carefully curated finishes establish a sense of understated luxury while maintaining warmth and livability. At the heart of the renovation is a completely reconfigured kitchen and gathering space designed around functionality, hospitality, and visual connection. Architectural barriers were removed to improve sightlines and circulation, allowing the kitchen, dining, and family spaces to function as a single integrated living environment. A dramatic five-foot workstation sink anchors the kitchen, while custom cabinetry and furniture-inspired details elevate the space beyond conventional residential design. Adjacent to the kitchen, the former pantry, laundry, and service corridor were reimagined as a hybrid scullery and utility suite, creating a highly functional support space that discreetly accommodates food preparation, storage, organization, and household operations without compromising the elegance of the primary living areas. The renovation extends beyond aesthetics to create a home tailored to the family's evolving needs. The primary bathroom was transformed into a spa-inspired retreat, while the lounge, office, and dining spaces were redesigned to support both everyday living and entertaining. Consistent architectural detailing, layered textures, and thoughtful proportions establish continuity throughout the residence, allowing each room to feel connected to the larger design narrative. The result is a sophisticated yet approachable home that balances practical performance with timeless design, delivering a renewed living experience that is both highly functional and distinctly luxurious.

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.

NARI COTY Winner 2014 Dark stained floating cabinetry helps continue an uncluttered theme of Fung Shui. The water closet in the background adds privacy to this shared suite which now has room enough for a chair at the separate vanity/make up area.