This timeless kitchen is the perfect example of how rich color sets the mood. Inspired by Sherwin-Williams’ Dried Thyme, the green cabinetry brings a warm and contemporary look. The kitchen’s original layout is what attracted the owners to this home so with a few changes, the space now better fits the owners’ needs. Straightening out a wall by the large bay window provided space to move the dishwasher, and gave room to build a tall cabinet with organized pullout drawers next to the stove for easy access and storage. This also created room to build a hidden appliance garage and flipping the location of the island sink provided more accessibility to the stove. The bow front stove hood provides visual relief for the linear nature of the cabinets. Green ceramic tiles surround the porcelain herringbone tile in the contrasting niche dedicated to spices and oils, and the adjacent pot filler provides convenience. The island was increased in size to provide for more storage and metal domed pendants provide lighting for both prepping and eating. Double-wall ovens have side handles for easy opening and convenience and provide easy access in a busy kitchen area. Separating the dining room from the kitchen with the addition of a butler door, created space to easily connect and move between the two rooms while minimizing noise. Photographer: Andrew Orozco

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall. The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home. Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup! One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space. The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back. We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed. Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it! We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake! Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs. We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together. We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown. Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility. The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels. The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy. This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Inspiration for a coastal bathroom remodel in Los Angeles

The existing kitchen was in a word, "stuck" between the family room, mudroom and the rest of the house. The client has renovated most of the home but did not know what to do with the kitchen. The space was visually cut off from the family room, had underwhelming storage capabilities, and could not accommodate family gatherings at the table. Access to the recently redesigned backyard was down a step and through the mud room. We began by relocating the access to the yard into the kitchen with a French door. The remaining space was converted into a walk-in pantry accessible from the kitchen. Next, we opened a window to the family room, so the children were visible from the kitchen side. The old peninsula plan was replaced with a beautiful blue painted island with seating for 4. The outdated appliances received a major upgrade with Sub Zero Wolf cooking and food preservation products. The visual beauty of the vaulted ceiling is enhanced by long pendants and oversized crown molding. A hard-working wood tile floor grounds the blue and white colorway. The colors are repeated in a lovely blue and white screened marble tile. White porcelain subway tiles frame the feature. The biggest and possibly the most appreciated change to the space was when we opened the wall from the kitchen into the dining room to connect the disjointed spaces. Now the family has experienced a new appreciation for their home. Rooms which were previously storage areas and now integrated into the family lifestyle. The open space is so conducive to entertaining visitors frequently just "drop in”. In the dining area, we designed custom cabinets complete with a window seat, the perfect spot for additional diners or a perch for the family cat. The tall cabinets store all the china and crystal once stored in a back closet. Now it is always ready to be used. The last repurposed space is now home to a refreshment center. Cocktails and coffee are easily stored and served convenient to the kitchen but out of the main cooking area. How do they feel about their new space? It has changed the way they live and use their home. The remodel has created a new environment to live, work and play at home. They could not be happier.

A stone and shingle facade and graceful lines highlight this expansive single-level home. Custom details can be found throughout the plan with elegant ceiling treatments in many rooms and built-in cabinetry flanking the great room fireplace. The chef's kitchen opens to the large dining area and to the great room, providing a focal point for family life and entertaining. One wing houses secondary bedrooms and utility space, helping to keep clutter out the formal living areas. The bedrooms each have a tray ceiling and their own walk-in closet. Just off the garage lies a utility room with ample work space, a large pantry, and convenient e-space. The oversized bonus room provides flexibility and access to plenty of attic storage. The opposite wing of the home plan is devoted to a roomy master suite with an attached sitting area to the rear. The suite accesses the rear porch, and includes two large walk-in closets. The highlight of the stunning master bath is the unique barrel vaulted ceiling over the garden tub. Dual vanities, a walk-in shower, and private privy complete the suite.

This was our 2016 Parade Home and our model home for our Cantera Cliffs Community. This unique home gets better and better as you pass through the private front patio courtyard and into a gorgeous entry. The study conveniently located off the entry can also be used as a fourth bedroom. A large walk-in closet is located inside the master bathroom with convenient access to the laundry room. The great room, dining and kitchen area is perfect for family gathering. This home is beautiful inside and out. Jeremiah Barber

Example of a cottage laundry room design in Other

Kitchen Designer (Savannah Schmitt) Cabinetry (Eudora Full Access, Homestead Door Style, Iron Finish, Floating Shelves - Heirloom Ash) Photographer (Smiths Do Love) Builder (Vintage Homes)

This was our 2016 Parade Home and our model home for our Cantera Cliffs Community. This unique home gets better and better as you pass through the private front patio courtyard and into a gorgeous entry. The study conveniently located off the entry can also be used as a fourth bedroom. A large walk-in closet is located inside the master bathroom with convenient access to the laundry room. The great room, dining and kitchen area is perfect for family gathering. This home is beautiful inside and out. Jeremiah Barber

Wanting to get as close to net- zero as possible, our clients came to us with a desire to create a home that would accommodate their growing family while walking lighter on the earth and living in a healthier home. A collaborative process with the clients, architect and Meadowlark resulted in a stunning energy-efficient home that seamlessly melds with the aesthetic of the classic Ann Arbor neighborhood where it’s situated. Architecture: Architectural Resource Photography: Joshua Caldwell

A dream home detail our homeowner's love to design...a custom walk-in pantry. Keeping the bulk of your food storage and additional kitchen tools out of sight is key to a clutter-free and effortless kitchen. The Tuckborough Urban Farmhouse pantry features entry from the kitchen and walk-through pocket office. We love this practical floor design that keeps the kitchen aesthetic elevated while maintaining convenience and accessibility for everyday usage.

Example of a transitional bathroom design in San Francisco

Laundry Room cabinets with beadboard back and bi-fold doors to hide washer and dryer
Example of a small classic single-wall utility room design in Sacramento with shaker cabinets, white cabinets, wood countertops and a side-by-side washer/dryer

Trent Photography, Austin, Tx.
Bathroom - coastal bathroom idea in Austin with a trough sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets and black countertops

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Bluffton Coastal in Hilton Head, South Carolina, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with coastal charm. Spanning a beautifully detailed 2,455 square feet, the open-concept layout is defined by prominent feature windows in the owner’s retreat, great room, and morning room that are strategically positioned to invite an abundance of natural light throughout the entire home. Designed for culinary enthusiasts and effortless home organization, the chef-ready kitchen boasts an incredibly large walk-in pantry with ample storage space. For those who love hosting family and friends, the layout includes an integrated covered porch that is conveniently accessible directly from the kitchen, creating a seamless transition and natural flow for indoor-outdoor entertaining. A smart split-bedroom floor plan prioritizes rest and privacy, positioning the secondary bedrooms on the opposite side of the home where they share a highly functional Jack-and-Jill bath layout. Secluded from the rest of the main residence, the luxurious primary owner's retreat serves as a private, spa-like sanctuary. This deluxe suite features independent double walk-in closets and an enhanced primary bath beautifully appointed with a premium free-standing soak tub, offering the ultimate relaxing escape. Completing the coastal estate footprint, the property includes a detached garage featuring a fully converted bonus room above. This private studio functions as an independent detached guest apartment or premium home office, complete with its own full bathroom and dedicated workspace to provide long-term visitors with complete comfort and seclusion.

Elegant, high-tech home theater features contremporary furnishings, an entertainment center and smart home automation from Control4 to enhance the ambiance and add the ultimate in convenience. Broadcast the music of your choice using a whole-home audio solution, powered by Control4. The recessed smart lighting and access lighting is designed to create the perfect personalized ambiance. Other automation options may include smart appliances, programmable thermostat control for comfort and energy management, home security system integration, shade automation, and full A/V control. And everything can be controlled from virtually anywhere - using your Control4 app with a smart phone or tablet device or a convenient touch screen.

Mid-sized tuscan white one-story adobe exterior home photo in Santa Barbara

Transitional screened-in side porch photo in Burlington

When you first walk into this dressing room, it’s the lighting that jumps out at you first. Each shelf is illuminated to show the brilliant colors and texture of the clothing. Light even pours through the big windows and draws your eye across the rooftops of Brooklyn to see the NYC skyline. It creates a feeling of brightness and positivity that energizes and enlivens. It’s a dressing room where you can look and feel your best as you begin your day. Featured in a modern Italian Melamine and tastefully accented with complementing Matte Nickel hardware and Clear Acrylic handle pulls, this Chic Brooklyn Dressing Room proves to be not only stylish, but functional too. This custom closet combines both high and low hanging sections, which afford you enough room to organize items based on size. This type of mechanism offers more depth than a standard hanging system. The open shelving offers a substantial amount of depth, so you have plenty of space to personalize your room with mementos, collectibles and home decor. Adjustable shelves also give you the freedom to store items of all sizes from large shoe and boot boxes to smaller collectibles and scarves. A functional key to closet design is being able to visualize and conveniently access items. There’s also something very appealing about having your items neatly displayed - especially when it comes to shoes. Our wide shoe shelves were purposely installed on a slant for easy access, allowing you to identify and grab your favorite footwear quickly and easily. A spacious center island provides a place to relax while spreading out accessories and visualizing more possibilities. This center island was designed with extra drawer storage that includes a velvet lined jewelry drawer. Double jewelry drawers can add a sleek and useful dimension to any dressing room. An organized system will prevent tarnishing and with a designated spot for every piece, your jewelry stays organized and in perfect condition. The space is maximized with smart storage features like an Elite Belt Rack and hook as well as Elite Valet Rods and a pull-out mirror. The unit also includes a Deluxe Pant Rack in a Matte Nickel finish. Thanks to the full-extension ball-bearing slides, everything is in complete view. This means you no longer have to waste time desperately hunting for something you know is hiding somewhere in your closet. Lighting played a huge role in the design of this dressing room. In order to make the contents of the closet fully visible, we integrated a combination of energy efficient lighting options, including LED strip lights and touch dimmers as well as under-mounted shelf lights and sensor activated drawer lights. Efficient lighting options will put your wardrobe in full view early in the mornings and in the evenings when dressing rooms are used most. Dressing rooms act as a personal sanctuary for mixing and matching the perfect ensemble. Your closet should cater to your personal needs, whether it’s top shelving or extra boot and hat storage. A well designed space can make dressing much easier - even on rushed mornings.